Everything I Bought in May

Did I go a little rogue..?

Looking back at my purchases this month, you may argue I’m in an experimental era. Or, at least, that’s how it looked to me when I reviewed my choices. Sure, I am usually shopping within my neutral palette - a spectrum of taupes, khakis, russets and browns - but there were a few surprises that I’d have never even considered a few years ago.

First up, a co-ord. I used to think co-ords demonstrated a lack of imagination, a hesitation about what goes with what so you put two things together than look a bit samey. The co-ord though has ascended to peak style and when I saw this Funnel Neck Jacket and Barrel Leg Jogger combo, I thought I’d give it a try. The fact it was in the sale convinced me even further…

Ever since I had my colours done, I have chosen to lean hard into my neutrals, which means I am mostly found in shades of brown…

I only spotted the co-ord because I was feverishly searching for the jacket Danielle Peazer had been wearing at a Vichy dinner. The dress code was a ‘pop of red’ but other than a very dressy dress, I could not conform. I saw this Bubble Hem Jacket on Danielle and thought maybe this was worth trying. I bought it, I love it, I wear it all the time.

Inspired by the lovely Danielle Peazer. I simply had to have this red jacket. And, every time I wear it, the compliments come thick and fast.

My inspiration for my next purchase was Nadine Baggott who wears a floaty black summer dress like no one else can. This bandeau style had been on my wish list for a while but with a heatwave imminent, I finally bought it. I don’t like to spend a lot of money on ‘high summer’ clothes because it’s such a fleeting moment of the season, but this felt doubly justifiable because it was already inexpensive and also reduced at the time of purchase.

Pre-breast reduction I could have never worn something like this, which is why I am so gleeful about wearing it now.

I appreciate an item that has versatility and I’ve been trying to find a slip dress, for a while, that will be great in summer but will also layer with boots, knits etc in winter. I think I found the perfect one in this satin camisole dress.

After a steam this will be a summer staple then a winter layering piece. A good investment if you ask me.

Time for another co-ord and something with a little more character here than I’m used to with this asymmetrical top and skirt set. It’s one of those where the pics really don’t do it justice, but what I love about it most is that they can be worn as separates and I think it looks much more expensive than it actually was…

Doesn’t show the shape well in this picture but it looks very chic and flattering.

If we’re talking affordable, you don’t get much more so than Primark. I saw this printed beach shirt and trouser combo online and for some reason, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I usually don’t like patterns, prints or text on my clothing but I couldn’t look away. As someone who doesn’t love shorts in summer on account of my ham-like knees, I also appreciate a floaty trouser that’s leg length-lengthening.

I usually hate patterns and writing on clothes but something about this is just really sweet and charming. The shirt loosely tucked into jeans or denim shorts is also incredibly cute.

I can’t wear flip-flops without worrying that I’m going to get told off. It’s a throwback to working for an employer who had been known to fire staff on the spot for wearing them. Magazine offices were much more casual than your regular work place but that was the item that could have you unceremoniously marched out of the office. I wore flip-flops the other day, while reminding myself that I am my boss and there would be no repercussions but I folded, went into Zara and upgraded to these flat sandals with metal detail.

Picked these up in Zara between meetings the other day. Apparently they are a best-seller and they bring them back every year. Can confirm they are very comfortable.

I’ve already mentioned that I’m not a fan of spending a lot of money on clothes and shoes that are either only worn on holiday or for a few scattered days here and there, which is why a pair of summer wedges for £12 made me incredibly happy. They’ll be hidden by longer-length trousers and skirts but will give me some height and a flash of toe. Perfect!

I used to own a pair of Louboutin wedges that were so uncomfortable it wasn’t even funny. These are perfect for under long skirts and trousers to give me height.

In a reflex against flip-flops and the fear of a human resources intervention, I also bought another pair of not flip-flops. I love the metal details on these sandals.

While I was in there getting wedges, I had to get these. Obviously.

My weakness is slightly loose fitting shirts. I find them to be incredibly chic and flattering, so I was helpless when I saw this chambray relaxed fit shirt online. I could have waited for an online order but went to the store and bought it straight away. Currently styling all outfits around it.

Slightly cross I didn’t go a size up for an even more slouchy fit. Shame on me.

That’s everything for May, make sure you subscribe so you see what I buy in June…

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