The H&M Flared Skirt

If I had a style resolution for 2013 it would be this: "class it up".

I have definitely been guilty of buying things in the past because I thought they were "interesting" or "unique". These items typically end up in my wardrobe, tags in tact and never worn. They might be too young, too trendy or just not the type of look I feel comfortable with. It's such a waste of time and money and so I silently vowed that this year would be an upgrade in how I dressed.

I call it the Lisa Vanderpump effect (I proudly watch far too much Real Housewives). I want pencil skirts, tailored shirts, quality knits, delicate shoes, great bags, clean skin, glossy hair and...well, you get the idea. Ultimately it's about quality - and that doesn't have to just come from high-end stores. Case in point - this H&M skirt.

The feel and weight of this is fantastic. It could easily come from the likes of Reiss but instead cost me about £30. I wore it yesterday and loved it. The shape is very voluminous and full because of the sturdy fabric. This could be hideously unflattering but when worn high and with a blazer creates a feminine silhouette. I have to admit that without the blazer I felt really self-conscious because of the flare in shape...I think it just takes some getting used to. After an hour or two I felt completely comfortable and enjoyed the drama that it creates.

On the opposite end of the cost spectrum are the shoes. A voucher from farfetch.com made the purchase possible - otherwise I would have just looked at them for the rest of my life in envy/lust. They are probably the most beautiful shoes I have ever owned. And hello kitten heel! :)  I ordered half a size up as I heard that the front is cut low and narrow. It turned out to be a perfect fit. Unfortunately I now want to own the flat version.

 

Skirt: H&M - Link!
Shirt: H&M (as featured in the uninspired OOTD I last posted)
Blazer: Topshop - Link!
Shoes: Valentino
Bag: Celine

I have my sister and family staying with me at the moment so the photos were taken by George - my nephew. He did a good job I think and he didn't even question the weirdness of me getting him to take my "Outfit of the Day" :)

Before I leave you, a quick book recommendation. I am currently reading The Hundred Year Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson. It set me back 20p on Amazon but is so far a cute, funny story of a rebellious old man who runs away from his old people's home. It's a little bit of a dark comedy but very much a book that rests in the "feel good" category. I recommend!