Christmas is family time.

Yes, Christmas is over for another year, and has been for about 3 days now, but since I spent the big day itself at home with just my parents, there was a smaller, secondary mini-Christmas yesterday that drifted a bit into today as we visited my grandparents. Most of my actual Christmases have been spent up with them, so it doesn't quite feel right unless we do.. It wasn't a big celebration though, and I didn't get any more presents or anything because they had already sent money down, but we gave them presents and we did have a roast, followed by mince pies. Shamefully (for a supposed blogger) I didn't take any photos on this little visit, so all I can share with you is my two looks.

Top & Shoes - New Look; Shorts & Tights - Primark; Earrings - Topshop; Ring - Parfois.
This was my outfit from the 27th - I again went for a mix of dressed-up and dressed-down, since it was a visit with relatives, but only an informal one. These shorts have been in my wardrobe forever and are the ultimate in comfort, which is pretty essential for a long car journey, while the tailored shape and smart grey colour make them pretty sharp and chic too. This blouse is gorgeous, in my opinion, and was perfect for the occasion because it combines a cute bird print, relaxed shape and gold sequin embellishment. I also have to report that these tights sadly suffered death by dog claws and will hopefully soon be replaced by some more mini-dot tights because I do love them.. it is just that I am not the kind of cool girl that can pull off artfully ripped tights - I look less edgy-grungy-cool and more scruffy-mess-that-can't-dress-herself. Sigh.

Top, Shorts & Shoes - New Look; Blazer & Earrings - Topshop; Tights - Primark; Ring - Dorothy Perkins; Bracelet - Accessorize; Necklace - Temporary Secretary.
Here is my second-day look - still quite smart and tailored, and again very comfy (for the long car journey back). One thing I have to say is that I am praying it is just the camera angle making my face look so chubby.. I'm going to say it is, so don't judge me. Anyway, the only other thing to really say about this outfit is how much I love my 'KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON' necklace from Temporary Secretary. It is definitely my favourite necklace right now and I can't wait to wear it again! I adore the vintage feel with the light green colour and spots, as well as the cool slogan. 

Yesterday and today kind of disappeared without me noticing them to be honest, they vanished in a blur of talking to the grandparents, dinner, me being totally annihilated at Scrabble repeatedly and more chocolate biscuits than I care to remember - and now I have just realised that it is only FOUR days until 2012. How did it creep up on us? Also, that means I go back to college in SIX days. Six. And I still have plenty of work to do, as well as endless revision for exams in approximately THREE WEEKS. Oh fashion gods, help me. Love and kisses, Tara xox

Christmas chez Tara.

First off, I hope you all had an amazing day yesterday - I know I did! Now, brace yourselves for another long one as I share the fun...

I kicked off Christmas 2011 bright and early with my cute little stocking, in the traditional way - aka curled up in bed, still in my PJs and dressing gown. Definitely a good start.

I love waking up to presents...

Good job, Santa.

And these are the goodies that Santa brought me in the night.. I must have been a good girl this year! My favourite thing so far is the super cute Lindt bear - almost too cute to eat. Almost. But not quite.

Once up and dressed (which my Dad didn't believe since it was before 9am), I finally set eyes upon the pile of presents. To combine two joys, here is what I'm wearing, and the presents neatly snapped in one picture.

No, they're not all for me...

Jumper - ASOS; Skirt - H&M; Tights - Primark; Earrings - handmade locally; Ring - Accessorize.
For my 'christmas at home' outfit I tried to strike the right balance between relaxed-in-my-own-home and all-dressed-up-festively. For most of my Christmases we have visited relatives on the big day, which of course required intense dressing up - but celebrating quietly at home this year meant I wanted to be a little more toned down.. To hit that midpoint I opted for my much-loved Christmas jumper (it has never been more appropriate), which I styled up with my sparkling sequinned mini and statement earrings. Oh, and before you ask, the presents are on the sofa because we don't have a Christmas tree. Never have, probably never will.

Presents!

This is my haul from this year, mostly courtesy of my amazing parents who somehow took my scrambled, last-minute Christmas list, fulfilled it, added to it and made me feel so loved with their finds. Now let me break it down for you...

1. Metallic H&M dress. Gotta have some Christmas sparkle!
2. ASOS faux cardigan jumper - so cute it hurts a little bit..
3. Kylie Les Folies Live In London DVD. Basically, I love Kylie, and being at this show was the best night ever, so I'm going to relive it.
4. Kylie calendar 2012 - from Santa, because Minne is my idol.
5. Bridesmaids DVD.. pure hilarity, enough said.
6. Breakfast at Tiffany's DVD, I will finally get to watch it.
7. Japanese Doll Tote bag. So sweet, and perfect for cosmetics.
8. Coral clutch bag. Just gorgeous.
9. Burgundy clutch - I picked this out myself and waited patiently!
10. Leopard bag, which is isanely cool.
11. Teacup ring.. the perfect nod to my mini-obsession with Alice in Wonderland.
12. Umbrella necklace. How appropriate for England in winter, or in fact any time of the year.
13. Egg timer necklace - very, very sweet and unusual.
14. Cupcake necklace. I think we all know I love cake.. moving on.
15. VINTAGE 50s Hannah Troy dress. My very first vintage piece!
16. LUSH Angels Delight soap, possibly my favourite soap and only available at this time of year..
17. Versace for H&M handbag - after all the fandango of getting the dress, I'm not 100% sure how Mum got her little paws on this, but I'm incredibly glad she did!
18. Versace for H&M earrings. Ditto these - once again, all hail Donatella (and my mum).
19. Temporary Secretary lucky dip bag & 'keep calm carry on' necklace. I adore Temporary Secretary & the blog too, and can't wait to wear these goodies.
20. Pandora silver chain bracelet. I had a cheapie version of one of these bracelets, but it broke recently and I hadn't gotten around to replacing it.. now I have an actual Pandora one - gorgeous.
21. Gloves and scarf, from my aunt and uncle. Seasonal, practical and pretty.
22. Penguin hand warmer. I pointed this out in River Island - I need a way to keep toasty warm while waiting for the bus!
23. River Island diamante headphone covers. Can't wait to bling up my MP3 with this dazzling beauties.
24. ASOS moose mittens (supposedly from my darling cat). Moose mittens - need I say more?
25. River Island grey dress, which I adore for the almost 20s feel of the straight cut and flicky fabric embellishments.
26. The Hunger Games books.. I have been waiting forever to read these!
27. What's New, Cupcake? book. I am already overflowing with excitement for cake baking.
28. Fashion Box book, full of inspiring pictures of fashion icons. I'll admit to losing myself in this yesterday afternoon.
29. Icons of Fashion from the 20th century book. God, I love fashion.
30. Fashion Doodle Book, basically a chance for me to release the fashion from my brain. Love.
31. Smirnoff miniature - best enjoyed straight, while watching Ab Fab. At least that's how I like it.

So yes, I am a very lucky girl because I got such amazing stuff - I can't quite believe it all myself. Don't even ask me to pick a favourite present, I couldn't do it if I tried! After the present-giving extravaganza we didn't quite know what to do with ourselves, and ended up watching the final Harry Potter, before starting to cook Christmas dinner. Well, Mum and I did, Dad fell asleep (but shhhh, don't tell anyone!). Here's the low down on our festive meal...

Lights!

Starting off lightly with melon..

My slightly shell-shocked parents & dinner.

My delicious veggie Christmas dinner. Nom.

My hilarious cracker joke.

The meal was topped off by a cake made by yours truly.

And that is basically the essence of my Christmas Day. After that came the obligatory episode of Doctor Who, where I counted the Narnia references, more chocolate than I care to remember and much more Christmas TV while the fire blazed.. Rounding off the evening was Ab Fab - which is comic genius. I love Patsy... And the final moments of my glorious Christmas day were spent watching my idol, Kylie, sing Let It Snow on Michael McIntyre's Christmas Comedy Roadshow - she was stunning. And now I want snow! I will leave you now with this image of me in the evening, before the vodka, but towards the end of the champagne.. Kudos for reading all this and I hope your Christmas was just as much fun!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Love and kisses, Tara xox

Post-Christmas wishlist.

It seems a little Scrooge-ish to be eagerly waiting for Christmas to pass just so I can shop again, but I can't deny it, I am. That said, anyone who's read a few of my recent posts knows I am literally buzzing for Christmas day tomorrow - 1 more sleep, people, 1 more sleep! It's just that after the festive excitement is over for another year, I have given & received my presents and eaten more chocolate than humanly possible, I will finally be free to spend my money again. It may have only been 12 days, but for me that feels like a lifetime. To get me through this tricky time, I will admit to compiling a small mental wishlist, much like a Christmas list, but packed with the items of clothing/accessories I am lusting after and probably would have already bought if it weren't for this little no-shopping challenge (and lack of funds). Realistically I know I cannot afford all of these gorgeous pieces but a girl can dream...

£50, ASOS

My beloved Topshop black blazer is one of my favourite pieces and it has served me well over the past year and a half ish, but even to my eyes the well-worn-and-loved vibe it gives out is now just becoming tatty-and-overused, so the time has come to replace it. This ASOS blazer is simply gorgeous, and very similar to my own, and I am seriously considering treating myself to it.

£40, Topshop
While the ASOS piece is pretty much perfect, I get the nagging feeling that I should stick to Topshop for the sheer quality. I love this black ponte blazer, from the rolled up sleeves to the little mock pockets, but I can't help but feel it would be too long for me...

£36, Topshop
Another ASOS-Topshop face off here.. I love anything embellished, and have had my heart set on a scalloped, embellished top for quite some time now, and this Topshop lace top is simply stunning. I can already tell it will look amazing with so many things, either dressed up or down. Want, want, want.

£49.50, ASOS Salon
But then ASOS Salon threw this little beauty into the mix. It is possibly even more gorgeous with the mint-green hue and beautiful silver embellishment.. It is just the wearability and price tag that are swinging this in favour of the Topshop.

£26, Topshop
I saw these in store in Topshop maybe two or three weeks ago and literally fell in love. Leaving them behind was one of the most tremendous shows of willpower I have ever given, and they immediately went down on my 'after-christmas-when-you-have-money' list. There is no question, these shorts are mine.

£8.50, Topshop
At the same time as I resisted the shorts, I also resisted these tights. You know I love tights, and when I saw these on the mannequin in store I really wanted them. I meant to put them on my Christmas list, but forgot, so now I am putting these firmly on the wishlist. I just can't get over how much of a statement them make with the contrasting sides!

£12, Topshop
While cruising the tights page on Topshop.com for the other tights, I chanced upon this gorgeous pair and decided they were simply too cute. I know, I know, I don't need any more tights, but these will be perfect to cheer me up in January!

£8, Accessorize
I have been looking out for some good gloves for a long time, because I originally wanted some leather-style driving gloves, but non-leather of course. Unfortunately all I can find is real leather and genuine suede, but these from Accessorize just might be close enough to what I want. They are wool, so all man-made, but come in a retro, driving glove style with the cute buttons and edging.

£28, Dorothy Perkins
This cardigan is so Chanel it hurts. And I love me some Chanel. I adore the monochrome colour scheme and chic edging - and I will need something besides my trusty blazer to keep me cosy when the winter-spring-summer transition finally kicks in, which this cardigan is perfect for.

£8.50, Dorothy Perkins
Another thing I can never have enough of is rings. Especially oversize cocktail rings. Don't get me wrong, I love all jewellery, but the perfect ring excites me in so many ways. I love the classic cocktail style of this DP ring, and the mustard colour is just gorgeous and luxurious.

£22, River Island
Collars are another recent obsession of mine, and this embellished one has stolen my heart. We will all need a bit of sparkle once Christmas is over and summer seems like an eternity away, and I really can't think of anything more suitable than this for glitzing up my daily wardrobe.

£20, River Island
I have had my eye on this for a while actually, but never plucked up the courage to buy it, and then the weather simply got too cold. Now that we might finally start heading out of winter again, I'm trying to develop my transitional wardrobe and this would be ideal. I simply love the almost Versace-esque print, and I love faux fur.

£24.99, Versace for H&M
Speaking of Versace... These amazing, summery shorts are my personal favourite item from their next (and final) collection for H&M, and while they don't drop until mid-January, I will definitely be putting aside some cash for them. I just know they will take away any winter blues that are hitting.

£10, Temporary Secretary
The final item on my wishlist (so far) is less of a trend-driven piece, and more of an it's-too-cute-to-pass-up item. Temporary Secretary is a bit of a new discovery for me, and while several bits and pieces are on my Christmas list, I just couldn't make a wishlist without including something from there. This cream tart ring is one of my favourite things on the site because it is just so sweet and original - the kind of detail that makes an outfit unique.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is my wishlist. Well, everything I am wishing for right now. I am sure that when I actually hit the shops I will see a million more things that I adore, but these are definitely the things that are playing on my mind right now. I don't even want to add up how much it would cost to buy all of these things, because I know it will just be painful, but that won't stop me lusting after them...

The next time I am going shopping is Boxing Day, straight after work, which I realise is brave since town is bound to be heaving with bargain-hunters stalking the sales, but I am visiting relatives the 27th-28th December, and simply cannot wait until the 29th! I hope that everything I want is in store, because delivery gets expensive, and I will of course be making use of my beautiful NUS card to scrounge some discounts where I can.

I was also wondering what you guys all think.. which pieces would you go for? 

Anyway, it is probably time I shut up now, and stopped daydreaming about clothes and shopping (which is probably a sign of a dangerous addiction to it). It is most likely that I won't be online tomorrow, since it is Christmas Day, and I reserve the right to spend the whole of it unwrapping presents, eating myself silly and generally having fun with my parents. So I'll say it now... MERRY CHRISTMAS!! It means a lot that you've been reading my blog, and I hope you get everything you want tomorrow - have an amazing day! Love and kisses, Tara xox

When Christmas gets strained.

*DISCLAIMER* This post contains unimportant details about my life, a lot of crazy Christmas-talk and general ramblings.

Okay, I will do my best to keep this short and sweet, like a good 'look du jour' post should be, but knowing my tendencies to just keep typing.. Well, you could be in for another long one. Kudos if you read it through. Anyway, so since it is the Christmas holidays I had been planning to spend the majority of it holed up in my cosy house, but I got persuaded out today.. To do the final Christmas food shop. I'll admit now that my effort on the fashion front was low, but judge for yourselves.

Cardigan, Top & Shoes - New Look; Skirt - Internacionale; Tights - Primark; Belt - H&M; Bag - H! by Henry Holland; Rings - Accessorize & Rock N Rose.
Since the majority of my time out of the house was to be spent either cruising through the rain/traffic in my little bubble car or trailing around the supermarket gathering festive veg & chocolate, I didn't feel the need to try too hard, and once again relied upon my separates to see me through. After yesterday's Audrey Hepburn obsession, you may have been expecting something a little more pared back, retro and simplistic - but without serious consideration, my wardrobe doesn't do simplistic. It basically just vomits pattern at me until I give in and throw on the eclectic mix.. The one Audrey tip I did play with was the belt, cinching in my waist, and I really think it helped give this ensemble shape, and stop the cardigan drowning little old me..

Now comes the irrepressible rant.. Why did we go food shopping in a busy Sainsbury's TWO DAYS before Christmas? It was madness. Sheer madness. There were so many people with ginormous trolleys that maneuvering ours up the aisles actually felt more stressful than the traffic-packed drive in. And it really did feel like a bit of a free-for-all, especially near the vegetables. Also, they were out of parsnips. Disgraceful. Now we will have to dig our own up out of the garden. (Yes, we live in the middle of nowhere and grow veg. But we are not farmers.) We also now have so much food that I think I may well eat close to my own body weight in Christmas fare, from the actual dinner to mince pies, biscuits, chocolates & random nibbles.. So forgive me if I don't show my face on camera for a few days after Christmas - I will be working off those holiday pounds that I am sure to pile on. But in the face of all this, you know we can all smile and let anything go because... it's Christmas. Love and kisses, Tara xox

Just call me Mrs Claus.

Okay people, it is now only five days until Christmas. FIVE. I think I am bubbling over with anticipation. That and the downright smugness of knowing I have bought and wrapped all of my Christmas presents, and won't be participating in a Christmas Eve panic-buying session. Which also increases the anticipation - I can't wait to give my gifts and make people happy (hopefully) by showing them just how much I care. At least it's only five more days to wait until my loved ones (aka my wonderful parents) get to unwrap their presents.. Which were admittedly only completed today, on the final Christmas shopping trip. Here's what I wore to dive into the busy realm of Christmas shopping..

Jumper - H&M; Jumper Dress (underneath) - ASOS; Tights - River Island; Socks - Urban Outfitters; Boots - Primark; Bag - H! by Henry Holland; Hat & Earrings - Topshop; Necklaces - New Look & Rock N Rose; Rings - Primark & Parfois.
I was taking no chances today. I decided to double-jumper myself, then add in my chunkiest cable knit tights, fair isle socks, some serious boots and then top it all off with my beloved faux fur hat. This all resulted in a very snuggly-warm Tara whilst walking around town in the December cold. I also find that layering up in winter is the best way to keep warm, while not resorting to covering your favourite clothes up with a giant coat.. My favourite part of this look remains the gorgeous hat - I wish I could wear it every day because it is just so cosy, and finishes off a winter look so well. I'll be unspeakably sad to pack it away in summer..

Today's shopping trip was shorter and slightly less fun than usual since I am sticking by my little personal challenge of not buying myself anything until after Christmas. It had seemed so easy up until now, when resisting the siren call of the checkout meant that while on the computer I could only browse the pages, not click 'Add to shopping bag'.. Being at home and away from temptation made it seem simple. Then I went straight into a town centre full of my favourite shops, and I have to admit I nearly cracked. There were so many things I could easily have snapped up and added to my wardrobe, so many new gorgeous pieces out just in time for Christmas that were just calling my name, telling me that they could be mine if I just handed over my overused little debit card.. But I didn't. I only bought my remaining Christmas presents, and as a result I now feel very virtuous indeed. Never mind the fact that I am already planning what to buy with my Christmas money (which I am hoping will add up to a lot), right now I feel super smug and proud of myself.

After returning home with my presents, I decided that today was the day to get them all wrapped up and looking festive & gorgeous. So I waited until my mum was out of the way, then set myself up in the living room with everything I needed to wrap, some super-cute paper and the obligatory bows, ribbons & gift tags..

I may have gotten a little overexcited with the wrapping, but isn't the paper just too cute? And anything bright and shiny is a winner with me, hence the bows and ribbon. I will, however, be the first one to put her hands up in the air and admit that her wrapping skills leave a lot to be desired. I'm getting better at it.. but you can definitely tell who wrapped them. My mum's wrapping will be neat, clean and tidy, whereas mine are more than a little scruffy. But it's the thought that counts... Now the only question remaining is who is getting all of these lovely, haphazardly-wrapped presents? Oh, and did I mention it is FIVE days to Christmas?! Love and kisses, Tara xox

Oh sweet freedom.

College is finally over for 2011, and not a moment too soon! Now all I have is the joy of holiday homework, revision and the threat of exams in January. Yay. But I'm going to put that out of my head for a little bit, and enjoy the sheer happiness that comes with knowing I don't have to get up at 6.30am to catch a bus for the next few weeks, and that my time will almost be my own... Since today was the last day, it felt a little bit pointless and a whole lot Christmassy - I had one lesson, and all we did was a Christmas quiz. Why did I go in? Well.. firstly due to a little bit of guilt for the day off yesterday, secondly because my friend told me she had my Christmas present, and thirdly to wear this...

Jumper - ASOS; Jeans - H&M; Shoes - Primark; Ring - Topshop; Earrings - Christmas present from friend!
This was what I had intended to wear yesterday, when I was unfortunately struck down by illness.. So I broke it out today. And yes, these are my insanely awesome gold skinny jeans, taken in by my talented mother - I literally love them because they just feel so much more interesting and unusual than plain old denim jeans. How can I return to the old faithful blue pair after the glamour of these? I paired them with my beloved Christmas jumper (which may have contributed to the festive feel of the day) and love the contrast between total glamour and cosy chic.

I am also now ridiculously glad that term is over - I may have a fair amount of work to do, but I actually have some time to myself, to do homework, revision, relaxing, clean my room... As well as just hang out watching festive films, stalking fashion blogs and wrapping presents while Christmas tunes play around my head. I am looking forward to a relaxing few weeks, with plenty of lie-ins. I hope all the rest of you school/college kids are done for the year, and that even those grown up readers with actual jobs will get a bit of free time too. Oh, and 9 DAYS TO CHRISTMAS! Love and kisses, Tara xox

Check out my hectic life.

And I say hectic with only the slightest hint of sarcasm. Having stayed up doing coursework for many a night, only to hand the draft in, get feedback and be told to carry on drafting, the easing of the workload I thought would happen downright hasn't. Part of me assumed that teachers would get some Christmas spirit and stem the tide of homework that is threatening to drown me (or at least my social life), but apparently not - and I bet I will get holiday work too! The homework plus the fact that I am out at college from 7.40am to 5.45pm most days including journeys, leaves me with very little time other than weekends. It's not just college making me busy, I work basically whenever I can (or as often as I am needed), while trying to fit in blogging, some kind of social activity and even a little bit of sleep. I think the evidence for the busy schedule I keep is that since this blog started (a few months back in July) I have posted every day, minus the days I was on holiday in Madrid, but yesterday I simply did not have time. 

So here comes the catch-up of yesterday...

It was Friday, chilly and the end of the penultimate week of term (yay!), and yet again I had suffered from stylist's block..

Jumper & Skirt - H&M; Top (underneath) & Earrings - Topshop; Jacket & Shoes - New Look; Tights - Primark; Rings - Forever 21 & Parfois.

Continuing with the trend of layering up my separates when I draw a mental blank, I wrapped up a little in a peter pan collar top, jumper & coat, only to suffer chilly feet in my dollies. Sensibility still escapes me. As you probably know, I have a thing for tights and yesterday I decided that black ones just wouldn't do with such a monochromatic outfit, dredging up some purple ones from the back of my tights drawer. And I am pretty pleased with the result - the bright tights and lipstick lifted the whole look, and in my opinion made it work. I bet you're now thinking that this wouldn't have taken long to write yesterday, but I was actually out last night at the Christmas show by my old gymnastics club Spirit and didn't get in until about 10pm, then decided upon a rare early night. It was amazing to see everyone last night, and the routines were all brilliant. I resisted the urge to jump in and see if I could still do some moves.. Hope to see everyone again soon, I miss you!

Now that tomorrow has been caught up on, here's what's going down today. As Christmas is fast approaching (15 days people, 15 days!!), the entire clan of us - okay, Mum, Dad and I - went out shopping to try and get gifts sorted. I split off from the parents of course, not just because I prefer shopping without parental interruption, but also so I could get their gifts without them seeing. If you're reading this my lovely parents, I have nearly got all the components of your prezzies. In all honesty, I have nearly got all of my Christmas shopping done, which is a very organised, epic feeling. Here's my outfit for hitting those shops hard today..

Jumper & Skirt - H&M; Tights & Boots - Primark; Socks - Urban Outfitters; Bag - H! by Henry Holland; Necklace - Rock N Rose; Ring - New Look.

To get in with the festive feel I was rocking my sequin skirt today - I cannot express how on-trend it is to be sparkling in sequins right now, and not just for parties. This skirt has yet to make a party appearance, but has been worn in the daytime to add some glamour to my day-to-day style. Dressed down is of course the only way to make this work so that you don't look OTT for a Saturday morning shopping spree, which is why I teamed my skirt with a chunky cable knit jumper and some tights in the du jour print of polka dots, while juxtaposing the girly, sparkly glamour it gives off with some serious, heavy boots and fairisle socks. 

I have to admit something though, this wasn't a shopping trip dedicated to others. I may have gotten a little bit carried away with the spending money thrill and treated myself to some early Christmas presents..

This totally gorgeous little top is from New Look (yes, I spend too much money in there), and caught my eye for two reasons.. One, the beautiful, spring-like pastel colour and two, the £5 off tag. After getting closer I completely fell for the double peter pan collar and cutesy sleeves - this top is leaning towards the uber-feminine look that is coming in, and the light, ice-cream hue makes me think of the current resort collections being showcased by designers. It will just feel so fresh to be wearing light colours in winter.

I also picked up a face mask from Lush (and you can get my opinion on it once I've given it a go), some new makeup and a lemon shower gel. I'm really going in for the beauty-related treats at the moment, and I may even try my hand at some proper reviews of all the new stuff I'm trying. Anyway, I have that mountain of homework to tackle, and work at 6.30, so I'd best be off now.. Love and kisses, Tara xox

We are in the Christmas spirit!

It's been a few days since I inundated you with my absolute love & adoration for the festive season, and that's a few days too long in my book.. Especially when I couldn't have been provided with a better excuse than today - the day my gorgeous group of friends and I got our Secret Santa on & swapped prezzies! First Christmas present of the year - woohoo! The thrill of presents buoyed me through the first half of the day until lunchtime, and even managed to make me get up in the morning and get dressed without too much inner grumbling..

Dress - Internacionale; Coat & Tights - Primark; Shoes - New Look; Ring - Accessorize; Earrings - present from a friend.

Although this looks quite simple, finding a coat to go with this dress was quite stressful. Originally in my head I had just pictured the dress, tights, shoes combo and couldn't shake it from my brain, because I really wanted to wear it - outerwear just didn't figure - and then it was so nasty outside that I simply had to find one. This is why the first picture is sans coat, it is how I wanted to look, and the second is how I actually looked. I am quite fond of my blue trench though, it may be a cheapie, and a bit of an oldie, but it is a classic - classic style, classic colour, classic chic. It also fits pretty nicely, nipping in at my waist, unlike my other coats which create a vastly different silhouette. I will just say that what with the fit-and-flare dress, red lipstick and bow-seam tights I was trying to channel my inner Marilyn.. not sure if it came off, but in my head I was strolling around like a vintage movie star. Reality may have been vastly different, but that was the character I was today - screen siren on a casual day (meaning you still don't leave the house without your trusty red lipstick). 

I said there was Secret Santa, and while it didn't remain so secret in the end (we all fessed up to who we had after the presents had been distributed and loved by all), I think it was just what we needed to perk up this penultimate college week. Everyone is getting bogged down in exams, coursework and depressing weather, so a little bit of love goes a long way. I also chose today to give out my Christmas offering to my beautiful friends (whom I love VERY, VERY much)...

Merry Christmas my lovelies! Yes, I continued my trend of cake for gifts, indulging in some intensive baking last night to produce some lush little cupcakes, vanilla & chocolate, iced in white, chocolate, green & red, adorned with edible glitter in silver, white, green, red & gold. Sense the festive colour scheme here. Edible glitter is my new dessert obsession - I believe it was the great Kylie Minogue that said "when in doubt apply more glitter" - and it really made these cupcakes look Christmassy and special. They went down well I think, so I am glad to report that my Christmas present was a success! I decided against actual presents for several reasons (1 - money is tight. 2 - would rather make a big deal about people's 18th birthdays. 3 - I just love baking cakes.), but cake is a good way to show you care.

This is neither fashion-related, nor cake-related, but I just wanted to put this out there - I love my bestie Florence SO SO much, and just wanted to share this beautiful picture of us in the midst of the Secret Santa joy...

Isn't she gorgeous! And I even look tolerable here.. Love you loads Flo! Now just a few little extra comments to be made...

Credits to akikik for the first cake picture and the picture of me & Flo - amazing blogger, amazing friend, awesome photographer. Also just a quick notice of love for all of my friends, you are all brilliant, you get me through the day. In friends, I am coming to include you my little band of followers/readers/commenters - there may not be many of you, but seeing that people are actually reading what I write and taking the time to comment really makes my day! Finally, this marks the official, official start of this festive season for me, so MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Love and kisses, Tara xox

Holidays are coming..

I don't want to bore you all with endless ramblings about how much I love Christmas.. but there is really only one way I can go with this post! First off, even more lights have gone up. Secondly, Christmas adverts are currently blaring at me. Thirdly, and most importantly, I deemed today an appropriate time to wear my new Christmas jumper..

Jumper - ASOS; Skirt & Earrings - H&M; Tights & Boots - Primark; Socks - Urban Outfitters; Rings - Accessorize & Rock N Rose.
To combat the huge fuzzy warmness that was the jumper, and add a little bit of interest below the waist I opted for a tight bandage skirt and spotty tights, along with the new, beautiful fairisle socks. As much as I adore this jumper (and that's a lot), if I wore anything loose on my bottom half I would look ridiculously shapeless. It's all about balance. But I do love this jumper - it is cosy, soft, warm and pulled me through the day by getting me into the Christmas spirit! I'm prepared to wear it many, many more times and honestly think it will be a winter staple for me for years to come. Love and kisses, Tara xox

I'm free, I just spent all my money.

Today was of course another Monday, which I was rather unimpressed about. Mainly because this means I haven't had a lie in in days (after starting work at 7am both Saturday and Sunday). Consequently, when I was woken up at 6.30am I decided it would be more fun to go back to sleep for a bit.. then I woke up again at about 7.10am - I have to leave at 7.35am - and panicked. Big style. Cue frantic running around room, throwing on clothes and jewellery, practically slapping on the warpaint and trying to dry shampoo my hair into some semblance of nice-ness. Now you can be the judge of just how well I respond to intense pressure-dressing!

Coat, Jeans & Boots - New Look; Earrings - Miss Selfridge.
Okay, ignore the double chin - I'm blaming it on the angle, not an OD on cake. Anyway, today the beautiful new coat came out! I absolutely love it - not only is it super-flattering, but it is ridiculously cosy and the details are just too cute. It looks especially good with this very du jour burgundy jeans because they are a little bit different. This whole outfit was a bit of a rush, so it is a little simple, but it is, in my humble opinion, a failsafe winter outfit, revved up with some seriously cute boots. It is a little bit of a New Look fest, but that only goes to show how versatile and mix-and-match-able their pieces are - kudos to them.

Today, something else new came through the letterbox (well, nearly - it didn't quite fit) to cheer me up..

Apologies for the seriously weird camera angle - it looked normal on screen! But anyway, if you read my post a week or so ago where I was continuing my knitwear obsession and lusting after Christmas jumpers, you will probably recognise this little ASOS beauty.. and you will know how much I fell for it. It was a little pricey, I was a little poor, and it was going to have to wait until payday - and then ASOS had a 25% student discount thing, and I discovered £50 I didn't think I had.. So obviously I bought it! And I am ridiculously glad I did, it is even more wonderful in the flesh wool. Super soft, thick, warm and just downright sweet all over, I can't wait to break this one out. Oh, and just check out the close up on the pattern - reindeer, snowflakes and little yellow stripes. Gorgeous. Is it too soon? Possibly. I'm feeling like I should wait until December, to avoid Christmas overkill. But once I have released this piece, be prepared to see a lot of it. Love and kisses, Tara xox

Let the Christmas shopping commence.

It's officially under a month until Christmas, so it is only right that I got myself into gear and started buying presents for people today. Unfortunately, instead of hitting town at 9am as soon as the shops opened (like I like to, so it is quieter) I had work this morning, so my first attempt at gift shopping was highly stressful - so many people! And I left my bank card at home, meaning I was only left with whatever cash I was carrying (not much).. yet another stressful occurrence. However, the trip was pretty damn successful as a first go. Today I wore..

Top - H&M; Cardigan & Ring - New Look; Shorts - Blue Miss; Tights - River Island; Shoes - Topshop; Bag - H! by Henry Holland; Necklace - Rock N Rose; Earrings - Primark.
This was a case of come home after work, throw on clothes, dash off to town - yet again, thank goodness for my extensive, adaptable wardrobe. I simply cannot stress enough how much I love the compatibility of all my clothes.. Anyway, today's objective was to be warm, casual and comfortable for braving the shops, all of which were achieved by this outfit, especially the uber-cosy cardigan! I am also a little in love with the necklace - it is literally gorgeous and adds a quirky edge to the entire ensemble. Oh, and no comments on the hair. It was up from work...

But of course, today wasn't just successful because I managed to get dressed & go out, I was a girl on a mission. A mission which is now partially completed. I have bought the first part of my Mum's present, and my granny's - but no pictures, that would kill the surprise factor! Of course, you know me well enough that when I go to town I cannot resist spending money on myself, and despite limited funds I made a major purchase.

I had had my eye on this gorgeous 60s-style coat in New Look for ages, but had been putting off buying it because it was a little expensive, and I already own 4 coats - so I deemed it an unnecessary purchase (I know, unusual of me) and managed to walk away from it in the shop time and time again.. Until today, when they had seasonal offers going on and it was 30% off. I let myself try it on, and upon seeing how flattering, cosy and simply cute it was, I gathered together my remaining money and let myself buy it. Crazy. Now I can't wait to wear it out - I know what I'll be wearing on Monday!

Since the coat took the remainder of my cash, I didn't buy anything other than the presents, and it (well, except for a good hot chocolate in Costa..), but that's not to say this is over. Urban Outfitters had recently had a 20% off everything event online, and I may have gotten sucked in.. Urban Outfitters is one of my favourite shops to go into, even if I never ever end up buying anything, because it stocks so many little concessions, as well as books, cute homeware and even CDs, as well as having an incredibly relaxing atmosphere. Even though you don't get the atmosphere online, I still loved the feeling of actually getting something from there - and my items came in the post today. Good times!

First up, this amazing khaki cutout shirt dress. I was drawn to it instore because it is such a simple, yet striking piece - perfect daywear. However, the slightly ridiculous (in my opinion) price tag put me off.. however, when it was on sale at a much more reasonable price I couldn't say no. Even after the splurge on the Versace dress, I can always use another dress. I will readily admit that it looks a little shapeless on the hanger, and when on a belt is necessary to stop me looking drowned in it, but a simple skinny belt is enough to make the dress perfect.

I didn't stop at the dress either.. Once I get started, I'm off! You probably know by now that I absolutely adore socks & tights, and since it is the season of the multiple sock (to prevent frostbite) I have been stocking up on cute pairs. Ankle socks are especially cute with ankle boots, or platforms, and I honestly had been searching for the perfect pair for a little while, when I found these two. Firstly, the metallic glittery pair were simply too awesome for words. Picture them with 70s-esque platforms, with or without tights, and a party dress - Christmas party perfection. And with the next pair of socks they had me with 'fairisle', then made my day by making them ruffled. This harks back to my knitwear obsession, I think.

So, all in all today has been pretty good. A successful Christmas shop, and more beautiful additions to my ever-expanding wardrobe! Roll on payday, and the next shopping trip! Love and kisses, Tara xox