Fashion | ZARA SUMMER HAUL

Anyone else get caught out during the hot spike last week? Because I certainly did! So much so I decided to pull together a little Zara order to fill the missing spaces in my wardrobe of clothes I threw out last year, and thought I would be able to replace a lot easier this year! Zara isn't always my cup of tea, but when they've got some good pieces online they're one of my favourite places to shop. Hopefully these staples will be easy to wear with what I already own and be perfect for Summer days out in the garden, because let's face it we're not going on a holiday anytime soon! 

I loved how simple this white t-shirt is. The frilly pocket makes what is something boring a little more fun and I know I will get lots of use during the summer with shorts, but also in the cooler months as a layering piece. I also needed some updated denim this year, especially post lockdown! Zara is usually a hit or miss with bottoms so I ordered these in a couple of sizes. I would say these hi-rise shorts with ripped detailing fit true to size but would suggest ordering one size bigger if you want them to be super relaxed. 

I saw this relaxed vest with bows and fell in love! It was actually out of stock when I placed my first order but put my email down to be reminded and got it the next day. Much like the white t-shirt above I love how simple this is and I know it will be easy to style. The polka dot skort is also a favourite of mine from this order. It's simple but can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Although I am happy with this purchase I have decided to order again one size up as the fabric is a little tight and I want it to be comfortable. 

Then I saw this relaxed t-shirt dress for £7.99 and thought I would see if this style suits me. Sadly I don't think it does, and it's a little shapeless for my liking, but I love the idea of it! I am going to be keeping this one despite my views on it, as know it will be great when the weather gets even hotter to sit in the garden in! 

I then found this cute gingham dress with a small puff sleeve and fell in love. I love the puff sleeve trend going around at the moment and think this dress will be great on a summer picnic, even if it is just in the garden. I also loved the idea of dressing this up with a pair of wedges on holiday when the time comes! 

Again, I needed another pair of denim shorts so tried out this style. If I'm honest I am not sure if I will be keeping them as they make me feel...big. They fit perfectly on the waist but the leg holes just don't sit right and the weird panel on the front looks odd to me. I'll be having a think about these ones! 

Finally, I saw that I owned 0 maxi dresses so decided to try out this little beauty. I love the gorgeous coral colour, ruffles and the fabric of this. The neckline is more plunging than I probably would have chosen, but the straps are adjustable to give some support. 


So there we have it, my little Zara haul. I know my picks aren't that adventurous but what can you do on a furloughed budget! There were a couple of misses that I haven't shown above as they didn't fit correctly. I think Zara's sizing has and will always be a risk when it comes to ordering online. At the moment I vary from size 8-14 depending on what the product is which isn't great. 

Until next time, 

Living life in the new 'normal'

It still blows my mind how different life has become over the last 2 months. If you had told me this would be the state of the UK back in January I would have called you a liar. The country seems to be all over the place with varying views depending who’s doing the daily update.... let’s not even begin discussing Boris addressing the nation with what could possibly be THE most confusing instructions in the world. It seems when we think things are beginning to feel somewhat normal another change is made that makes the world seem uncertain again. This week has been highlighting World Mental Health Awareness, and I couldn’t think of a better time when it could be needed more. It’s not secret I’ve struggled with my own mental health, but if I’m being open the last few months have been tougher than ever. I’ve been taking certain steps to make sure I’m looking after myself and my MH during this time. 

I’ve made sure to take some time for me as and when it’s needed. This can sometimes be the last thing on your mind especially if you’re feeling anxious but it’s so important. Keeping busy has helped me to focus on something other than the continual negative news we’ve been receiving on a daily basis. I’ve been keeping busy by being creative and using my time on furlough to restart my crafting business. If you’re in need of cake toppers, cards or anything else personalised I’m your gal! Staying connected with family isn’t a new concept, especially with the introduction of Zoom to my life, but it is so important. My wider family and I have been talking on zoom every Sunday as a way to just talk, have a little quiz and to catch up. It’s been so nice to speak with everyone and ironically I feel like we’ve become closer than ever before. Now, for something I could never have thought to read on my blog...exercise!! Yeah I know, I hate myself for saying it too! But exercise has really helped me focus my energy on something positive. I downloaded the BBC couch to 5K app and find it easy to follow and quite enjoyable to do. Take it from someone who could run for less than 20 seconds at the start, the fact I’ve just ran my first 5K after 5 weeks should speak millions! Dare I say I’m actually finding it a little bit enjoyable now?!?! Again, I HATE MYSELF TOO! Finally, keep talking. It’s easy to want to curl up into a shell when times get tough, believe me I've been there, but making sure to keep conversations open with family and friends is so important. Sometimes a quick little 'I'm ok, but would like to spend my day sitting in bed playing Animal Crossing' is enough to get the message across and lets them know you want some time out. I've certainly been using that excuse on more than one occasion! Talking with family/friends also helps you to check in and make sure they're ok too. Times are weird for everyone and people cope in different ways, showing you care can help you feel loved and supported. 

This week I plan on taking some time to reflect on the good things I have learnt and the skills I have gained since lockdown began. Perhaps I will share them in a post soon! For now stay safe and stay positive. 

Until next time,