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.

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...

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?!
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.

and with these superfit skinny ones from Warehouse
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.
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
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



Finishing with this fun sweatshirt I saw in New Look...we've all been there!
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