OOTD: The Most Fabulous Yellow Zara Coat (And Why Glitter Isn't Just For The Evening!)

I probably have far too many jackets, I know. Every time I have a clear-out I rediscover an old favourite and feel like I've been shopping all over again, but that doesn't stop me from eyeing up new pieces and grabbing a bargain when the opportunity arises. I've long loved a jacket, coat or cover-up as a way of concealing the bits I don't like about myself (those bingo wings have made an appearance since I hit my thirties) while jazzing up an otherwise simple outfit. Whether it's a skirt and tee combo (like this gorge gingham one I'm a bit gutted I've not been able to wear much because, you know, sweat!) or a simple pair of jeans, a statement piece can really make you feel good to go with very little effort elsewhere. Trust me!


I had my eye on this Zara yellow number a couple of months ago, as the colour really made me smile. I adored the little bell sleeves and retro shape of the body, knowing it would go with everything from a dress (hello wedding season) to a pair of jeans - but the £79.99 price tag made me put it back on the rail. It was a little too much for me to part with just because it made me feel happy looking at it, but when I popped into have a rummage through the sale racks HOORAH it was 50% off! (Don't you just love it when that happens.) It's such a great quality jacket, with full lining and fabulous sleeves, that makes such an impact and will never go out of style; plus yellow goes with a whole lot more than you'd ever believe. It's the perfect jacket for semi-warm days too, as I didn't get at all sweaty despite lugging myself across London in pretty sunshiny conditions; I'm definitely going to be styling it with some floral dresses for the few weddings I've got this year, popping it over my shoulders so I feel like a film star.


For the last few seasons the fashionistas in magazines and on the telly have been telling us that glitter and sparkles is hot for daywear, but I have to admit I've not really embraced it. I'd feel a little foolish walking down the street in a glittery ballgown, but there are little ways you can take on the trend while keeping it simple. These gorge ASOS bow sandals were an impulse purchase (at £14.00 you can't resist!) but they've since become a firm favourite in my wardrobe - they take me from day to night without a problem, and they're super comfy too. (Plus they're back in stock, hurrah!) I love the super glittery effect which looks fab with jeans and a tee, but the combination of glittery shoes and sunglasses is a statement that shouldn't be underestimated! I spotted these River Island sunglasses after just popping in for a quick browse - they totally remind me of Elton John, but the pale pink colour and ovesized shape make them totally wearable. Proof you don't have to cover yourself in a glitter stick to be on-trend.

Don't you just love it when you find a 'last year's purchase' lurking at the back of your wardrobe, ready to put a twist on everything you wear? I bought this from the Marc Jacobs shop at Bicester Village over a year ago for around a third of the original retail price, and used it to death for months. As the seasons changed it got pushed to the back in favour of darker and more structured alternatives, but now its the summer again it's been back with vengeance - I've literally used it every day for the past couple of weeks. It's super roomy and can be used either as a shoulder, cross-body or clutch bag (just remove the strap,) while the metal spot detail keep it edgy and fun. (I love how it matched the pearl details on my tee too!) Although you probably won't be able to grab this now, it's always worth a visit to Bicester Village to find out what other bargains you can snap up...  

All hail the jeans and t-shirt. What would we do without thee? I'm usually quite a considered dresser, always taking the time to ensure my accessories match and my outfit is speaking in the way I want it to, but occasionally I have those 'can't be arsed' days when I just want to chuck on a pair of jeans and a comfy tee. This was definitely one of those days... I knew I had a busy day (including a facial) with lots of rushing about, so I couldn't be dealing with skirts riding up or tops that flashed my boobs. My favourite jeans of all time are from good old ASDA, and with a £20.00 price tag you can't complain; their Wonderfit range is perfect for those of us with a big bum and hips, but a small waist - they're the only ones I've ever been able to wear without a belt to keep them from falling down! Paired with this super cute pearl peplum tee, which has just the right amount of detail to stop it being boring, it's a comfy and stylish result if I say so myself! The fact that the peplum works wonderfully with the bell sleeves of the jacket is a bonus!