A Scoot Around The Shops…

I’ve had practically no time for clothes shopping in the past few weeks – it’s been all about getting the last few bits and pieces for the house as we race towards the finish line. We’ve owned the house for 4 months exactly and tonight, I finally sit in my living/dining/kitchen area watching TV in front of our new stove…without blinds/rugs/pictures etc but give me a few weeks and I’ll share some before and after shots.

So today, while the last of the painting was finished and the carpet fitters worked away, I sneaked to Forestside for a nosey at the shops. I’ve really missed looking around so it was great to have an hour of peace to quickly skim the new arrivals.

First up – this is what I wore. I was out last night with a friend from Dublin who was staying overnight in Belfast so this morning was a bit of a rushed, slightly bleary affair. I had a walk early on – for a meeting 20 minutes from home so the trainers were a practical choice but the blouse gave it a slightly dressier feel and meant I wasn’t too hot after the walk.
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image Coat – Mango AW14 (some Size L’s left here & Black Size S here)
Blouse – Boden AW13 (other colour here/similar here)
Navy Merino Cardigan – Mary Portas @ House Of Fraser (AW14 – similar)
Jeans – Gap Premium Skinny (Outlet)
Trainers – Onitsuka Tigers AW13 (similar)
Scarf – Zara AW14
First up,  it was H&M where I tried this on…

image Jeans, T-shirt (not online), Knitted Jacket & Cream Trainers – all H&M
The trainers are a good copy of the Adidas Stan Smiths that every blogger who knows her onions is wearing but the nice thing is that these are cream so I think they’re a little easier on the eye. However, I’m not sold on these (or the Stan Smiths) yet – but it was nice to try the look out. They’re £19.99 and I’m wearing a size 39 which was a good fit. Maybe when the weather warms up, I’ll change my mind?!
image Jeans were a nice fit on (size 29/32) but the rips felt a bit artificial and I really wanted a black pair so I resisted. They felt pricy for H&M too at £29.99.
I did bring the knitted jacket home but I’m not sure I’ll keep it yet…watch this space. And the t-shirt is great but another warmer weather purchase. I’ll regret not buying it when they sell out but this month has been an expensive one so I had to be strict.
The jeans search went on (unsuccessful) but I was well impressed with the selection in Next.
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image and with these superfit skinny ones from Warehouse
image My main frustration with skinnies is when the ankles are baggy so I love how all of these pairs are nice and neat on the ankle – giving a slimmer look overall.
Next also had these lovely colourful macs – very Boden-esque…looked and felt just like my everyday mac.
image And I loved this Navy cross-body satchel-style bag and the coat beneath it is a reversible one…wish I’d had time to try on. Navy on one side and blue on the other
image But as all my trips go – I ended up lusting over home stuff. Seriously impressed with the Paul Costello and Carolyn Donnelly ranges at Dunnes Stores
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image Finishing with this fun sweatshirt I saw in New Look…we’ve all been there!
image Busy few days ahead including a flying visit to London on Saturday….keep an eye on Instagram to see what I get up to :)
Ax

m4s0n501

11 Comments

  1. I’m with Avril with distressed jeans & not keen when the rips line up on each knee.
    Looking forward to seeing the pictures of your new home.
    Jane xx
    My Midlife Fashion recently posted A Boden Show & Tell & WIWTMy Profile

  2. You look great in the trainer and knitted jacket ensemble Avril! I reckon you need to Stan look-a-likey’s in your life ;0) xx
    Michelle Lee (MyFashionable40s) recently posted Rock Goddess chic!My Profile

  3. I’m desperately searching for some decent skinnies (or fairly straight leg) jeans with unfinished hems. Seems all the ones I lust after are mega mega expensive and I know they won’t fit as well as my usual M&S bargains. Love your coat, it looks fab x
    iwontwearsludgebrown recently posted 5 Things You Might Want To Buy For Spring/Summer 15My Profile

  4. Doesmybumlook40 Reply

    Can’t get over those interiors bits by Paul Costelloe…LOVE!!!

  5. I know its a really unfashionable thing to say, but I’ve been a fan of Next jeans for a long time. They just tend to fit me really well. As for Dunnes home interiors right now … beyond fab! Do Dunnes in NI have the Helen James Considered range in as well? It’s gorgeous.
    The Flaky fashionista recently posted Wednesday WishMy Profile

  6. You were far more inspired than me, on my trip to Chester, yesterday. I loved looking at home wears more than clothing too. I am looking forward to seeing your’ before and after pics. See you soon. H xx
    Fashion40ish recently posted Tardy Lardy RamblingsMy Profile

  7. I really like the trainers on you! Just wait til Spring, you won’t know how you managed without a pair! Next seem to have really upped their denim game this season, don’t they? I live in their relaxed skinny jeans, but I may have to investigate a few other styles the next time I get the opportunity…xx
    Becky @ re:style recently posted Inspired by Street Style: Kate Moss does Military Style in a Bomber JacketMy Profile

  8. I popped to town yesterday too- lasted one hour but managed to do 8 or 9 shops – with baby in tow! Was nice to go for a browse but not a lot took my fancy. I got the flared M&S jeans :)
    What Lou Wore 365 recently posted No Makeup Nursery RunMy Profile

  9. As always, effortlessly stylish! See you Saturday and look forward to sharing a room!
    Avenue 57 recently posted Day 4 – My Children Chose My #OOTDMy Profile

  10. That’s a cracking little outfit there Avril! I’m loving Next atm! I’ve got my eye on a few pieces! I’m on a decor mission atm too! x
    In Mamas Wardrobe recently posted Joes Browns: SS15 Top Picks & A Giveaway!My Profile

  11. Ooh I want a spotty dotty blouse like that one…am still trying to find the lovely breton you bought in Tesco too!

    http://mama-of-boys.blogspot.co.uk/
    Mama recently posted Short and sweetMy Profile

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