Dressing Up Jeans With Boucle Jackets

Posting another two denim outfits, trying to dress them up a little with statement jackets.

Here's what I wore to visit the child health nurse and go shopping:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Jacket: Asos blazer in textured boucle with fluro binding
Scarf: Jay Jays orange scarf
Top: Jeanswest 'Josie' striped back strap tank (on sale!)
Jeans: Sass and Bide strayed misfits skinny jeans
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in white
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


I'm rather proud of this outfit. Not that I think it's particularly wonderful, just because of the speed I managed to put it together while rushing around getting baby T and I ready. Funny how speed of getting dressed has a big impact on my feelings when wearing an outfit nowadays! It had been a particularly hectic morning as we were running late, with multiple changes of clothes required for baby and me slowing us down.

I think the scarf makes it look a little more put together, like I actually spent time planning my outfit. With the cardigan, it's soft for baby to snuggle into and also easy to clean in case of more 'accidents'. It's really comfortable with the jeans and Converse. And most importantly of all, it stayed clean for our outing. We weren't too late to meet the nurse, and she even complimented me on my jacket! Even had a little time afterwards to do a quick grocery shop for the essentials as well.

Surprisingly, the scarf hasn't been on the blog before - or I couldn't find it if it has. It's an oldie, a gift a while back from my mum. Should wear it more often, it's such a nice orange colour. Added it as the cardi kept me warm enough, didn't need a thick scarf.


Last worn: Ray-Ban, textured cardi, stripe tank, Sass and Bide jeans, white Converse, MbMJ baby bag.

---

Here's what I wore to go to the post office:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Jacket: Zara frayed basket weave blazer with zips in red
Scarf: Alexander McQueen red skull-print modal and cashmere-blend scarf
Top: Marc by Marc Jacobs blossom pocket tee in grey
Jeans: Jeanswest blue skinny jeans
Shoes: Asos Cleo leather boots in tan


I'd been wanting to wear this jacket for a while. Last time I wore it I was heavily pregnant! I thought it would pair nicely with my colourblock maxi skirt when I last wore it, but it's not the best thing to wear if I've got baby T in his carrier because of the metal zips. It works really nicely with denim though, and kept me warm for a trip to the post office to pick up a parcel. Jeans and boots is a slight change from jeans and Converse, and something I can really only wear in winter so I'm enjoying it while I can before Spring officially starts next week.

The red scarf is another piece I've been feeling the need to wear lately - hasn't gotten a lot of love this winter compared to my other skull scarves. Was good to be able to wear both pieces in one outfit. Funny that the last time I wore this grey tee I paired it with the same scarf!


Last worn: Ray Ban (see above), Zara tweed jacket, red skull scarf, grey tee, skinny jeans, leather boots.

Linking up with Fashion Item Friday, Fab Favourites, Passion for Fashion, Casual Friday, Friday Favourites today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Dresses, Scarves and Leather Boots for Winter

Here's what I wore to go shopping with baby T:

Jacket: Asos Black by Markus Lupfer printed leather jacket
Scarf: Alexander McQueen pink pashmina in skull and floral print
Dress: Asos grey skater dress (on sale!)
Shoes: Asos Cleo leather boots in black
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


Just scraping in near the end of the month, my second wear of this Asos skater dress that I bought in July. Wore it out for a morning of shopping with baby T to stock up on more baby-related things. Thought that the bright pink scarf was a nice bit of colour against all the black and grey.

When I made my July purchases, I wanted to evaluate them all on the blog to see what lessons I could gain. The goals were to help me keep my spending in check, make sure I wear the things I buy, and give me some inspiration for what to wear. My verdict on this grey dress:
It's a great, neutral, basic dress, that was on sale and in a flattering silhouette (skater style dresses are good for post-baby bodies!) so it should have been a winner. I find myself wanting to pass by this dress in my wardrobe though, and had to keep trying to remember to wear it. I love grey clothes and I love dresses...thinking about why I didn't want to wear this, I've realised that I have very few neutral, basic dresses in my wardrobe. I tend to buy and wear more printed dresses, the neutral ones just seem too basic and don't get worn a lot. Something I'm going to try to change with the addition of this grey dress to my wardrobe, but also a preference I've never really noticed before I set myself the task of evaluating what I buy. Will be interesting to see how long it takes me to wear this dress again, and if I keep passing it by for more 'exciting' dresses. An eye-opening purchase, but I can't be sure I'll actually wear it often.


Last worn: sunglasses, printed leather jacket, pink and yellow skull scarf, grey skater dress, leather boots, Marc by Marc Jacobs baby bag.

---

Here's what I wore to have a picnic in the park:

Scarf: Seed Heritage Paisley print snood
Dress: Atmos&Here navy stripe tee dress
Shoes: Asos Cleo leather boots in tan
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


In complete contrast to the grey dress, this striped tee dress that I bought in July I completely adore and I've had to stop myself from wearing it too often so I could meet my goal of wearing all my purchases twice this month! Thought the stripes would pair really nicely with the paisley print of the snood. Felt comfortable and happy in this outfit all day.

Baby T, Cooper and I went to a little picnic in the park with some other mummies for a meet and greet. It was so fun being surrounded by so many cute (and talented!) babies and wonderful to have some adult conversation and compare notes on pregnancy, birth, feeding, sleeping and milestones. Was glad I'd worn my thicker legging-like tights, as although baby T can't wander far, Cooper had me moving around quite frequently and I did have to tug my dress back down once or twice!


Last worn: Wayfarers (see above), paisley print snood, striped tee dress, leather boots, Marc by Marc Jacobs baby bag(see above).

Linking up with Wardrobe Wednesday, WIWW, What I Wore, Style Me Wednesday, Fashion Informant, Spotlight Weekly today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Ombre Colour Block Maxi Skirt | Raues Custom Clothing Review

My usual outfit posts, featuring a gorgeous new top tailor made for me by Raues!

Here's what I wore to spend the day with mum and have dinner with family:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Scarf: Alexander McQueen modal and cashmere skull scarf
Tee: Atmos&Here rolled sleeve oversized tee in wine
Skirt: Asos colour block maxi skirt in red (on sale!)
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black


When this colour block maxi skirt I ordered arrived I loved it right away, but then wondered if it would really get a lot of wear after everything I pulled out of my wardrobe to wear with it seemed to be grey. It had seemed a great buy online....was so pleased to see how well it paired with the burgundy tee, it encouraged me to try more colour options. I really like the little ombre effect this outfit has! Was a really nice comfortable outfit for a day at the shops with baby T and my mum and then dinner with my family in the evening. As it was a warmer day and we were inside most of the time, I didn't need a jacket.

This is the second time I've worn the skirt (and I'm evaluating all my July purchases), so the final verdict:
I really like it. It was definitely a case of being blinded by the pretty item with a good sale price and buying without thinking too hard about what I could wear it with. Luckily, when it arrived I realised I hadn't thought it through and looked through my wardrobe to see what it would work with. Did take me a while to come up with something other than grey, but once I did I came across a few ideas. It is a good reminder to myself to plan out possible outfits for things in my head before I purchase, so I don't end up buying something that won't get worn often.


Last worn: Ray Bans, oversize tee, taupe skull scarf, colour block maxi skirt, Converse.

---

Here's how I wore my new top from Raues this weekend:

Jacket: Temt black trench coat 
Scarf: Cotton On white pashmina
Top: Eva top C/O Raues
Jeans: Cotton On black skinny jeans
Shoes: Asos Cleo leather boots in black


I have about 10 outfits from the past few weeks to post, but I just had to share this weekend's one with you right away. I have been looking forward to the arrival of this top from Raues, my very first custom-made item of clothing! I'm petite so own quite a few altered pieces, but never anything made from scratch just for me. I was so excited to wear it!

Sandra from Raues contacted me back in July to say that she would like to extend a discount code to my readers, and for me to trial the service and give a review. They ship worldwide, and you can get a 15% discount if you like the Raues Facebook page and complete your registration on the Raues site. A 15% discount code will be emailed to you when you complete both steps.

My Review of Raues:

In July I was really rather busy with baby, still learning and trying to figure out baby's routine, but I was intrigued enough to give it a go. Sandra and the Raues team have been so patient and helpful with me through the process. Signing up to their website and filling in my measurements, something that wouldn't normally have taken me long, seemed to take days when I had to fit it in around baby T's nap times! When you sign up to the website you enter your account details, and fill in all of your measurements. You have to fill in everything, I guess to make ordering easier in future as your sizes are there if you order a top, dress or skirt. However, distracted by baby T, I'd managed to put the wrong numbers down! Thankfully Sandra picked up on this as a few of my measurements were very different from normal ones, and she asked me to confirm. She let me know when my top was going to be made so I could re-measure and fill in the correct sizes this time! I appreciated her attention to detail and the checking that's built into their process. If you also manage to put in the wrong measurements or something isn't right, there is even an Australian return address, fantastic!

Once my measurement mistakes were fixed up, the top was made so quickly, and shipped right away! Once everything was confirmed, it took just over 3 weeks for my top to be made, shipped and land here in Australia. Not bad for a company that estimates 4-6 weeks shipping time. It was beautifully wrapped too. The quality is great - the top fits wonderfully and the peplum length is perfect, just below the hips, exactly as I specified. Good for hiding the post baby belly bulge! Like the other items on Raues, I could customise a few options on the top as well as getting it made to fit me perfectly. It was really fun getting something tailor made just for me, with the options I chose. I will have to take another photo when I wear it in better weather to show off the cute sleeves. Have been thinking about this lovely dress too.... If you want something unique and tailor made, by a company with wonderful customer service, I'd definitely recommend Raues. And don't forget to like the Facebook page before you register to get 15% off!


Last worn: trench coat, white pashmina, skinny jeans, leather boots. First time I've worn the top.

Linking up with Style to Inspire, Let It Shine, Monday Bloom, Mix It Monday, Manic Monday, Monday Must Haves, Real Mom Style, Style Sessions, Confident Twosday, WIWW today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Wearing Maxi Dresses in Winter: with Scarves and Cardis

Here's what I wore to have lunch and spend the day with family:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Jacket: Jeanswest Dana drape knit cardi in Boysenberry
Dress: Jeanswest 'Chantelle' crochet detail blue printed maxi dress
Belt: Asos metal keeper skinny waist belt in bright blue
Shoes: Acne pistol boots in "skin"


Strange to see this maxi dress without the baby bump! I bought it in my third trimester when I felt I was running out of pretty dresses to wear, knowing I'd be able to wear it post-pregnancy as well. It's got gorgeous lace detail on the back, but as it's winter I covered it up with a cardi and added some boots to keep warm.

I first tried the belted jacket and maxi dress combo during my pregnancy, and I really liked it. Thought it would be a good way to keep cosy and look nice for spending the day with the in-laws. We had lunch and Baby T got the chance to meet some more of his relatives from out of state, it was a lovely day. Picked this cardigan to wear over my other ones as I really like purple and blue together, and the way the little waterfall drape looks with the maxi dress.


Last worn: waterfall cardi, skinny belt, printed maxi dress, Acne Pistol boots.

---

Here's what I wore to go to my new parent group:

Jacket: Bubblegum denim jacket
Scarf: Seed Heritage Paisley print snood
Dress: MEV Havana maxi dress C/O Zibibo
Belt: Asos skinny pale yellow belt
Shoes: Marc by Marc Jacobs two tone flats in blush and black
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


I'm glad I can still wear this maternity maxi dress post-baby! It was one of my favourite maternity pieces, and is a nursing dress too, really practical. I did worry that it might be a little too long on my petite frame without the belly holding it up a bit, but belted it's still a nice floor-skimming length.

I've been wanting to wear the dress and denim jacket together for a while. It's also the perfect piece for the last day of the Style and Shenanigans texture challenge. Minus the snood, this was the outfit I had planned out to wear the evening before I unexpectedly went into labour. I woke up early in the morning, feeling funny. When DH got up I was sitting on the end of the bed breathing through a contraction and as soon as I could I said "I think I'm in labour!". Instead of the pretty dress I'd laid out, I put on my ninja baby tee (for its last wear!) and some trackie dacks to wait it out at home a bit longer until it was time to head to the hospital. Changed into a hospital gown soon after arriving there, and baby was born shortly after! It was so wonderful to meet him, he was so tiny and perfect!

This is the second wear of the snood since I bought it, so as I've done with all my July purchases, the final verdict:
I like it! I've never really liked the idea of a snood before, it seems less versatile than a scarf and I was always worried the style would overwhelm me, being short. Trying it on in store helped to make sure it was a purchase that looked good on me and one that I'd wear. An impulse buy I didn't need to make (I have a LOT of scarves) but one I'll get lots of use from. Especially now as I'm favouring soft scarves instead of necklaces baby could get tangled in.


Last worn: denim jacket, paisley print snood, skinny belt, maternity maxi dress, cap toe flats.



Lining up with Style and Shenanigans, Friday's Fab Favourites, Passion for Fashion, Fashion Item Friday, Casual Friday today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Post Baby Dressing: Tees and Maxi Skirts | Blogging With Baby

As life revolves around baby T, I'm finding it difficult to set aside the usual 30 minutes a day I had in the past for blogging. Blogging and reading other blogs is a lovely way to get some "me time", but baby will always come first. I've enjoyed sharing my daily outfits, especially during pregnancy, and have gained a lot from having a searchable outfit history.

I'm going to continue to keep taking photos of what I wear every day when possible, but reduce the posting frequency. I'm going to aim for a post on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. This means posting less outfits a week, which takes the pressure off. When I do have a busy day and don't get out of PJs or find time to take a photo, or baby T decides to "add" to what I'm wearing before I can take a pic...I will probably have some photos taken that haven't yet been shared.

I'll still be sharing what I actually wore each day of course (who has the time and energy to dress up just to stand in front of a camera?!), just not posting it on the day I wore it or the day after like I used to.


Here's what I wore to go to my new parents group:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Cardi: Jeanswest long red drape cardigan
Tee: Asos new forever grey tee (on sale!)
Skirt: Asos colour block maxi skirt in red (on sale!, new purchase)
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in white


This pretty colour block maxi skirt is one of my July purchases, so I have the goal of wearing it twice this month to evaluate if it was a good purchase, and if there are lessons I can learn to help me be more selective with shopping. It took me a while to get around to wearing it, as I had to have it shortened first. Being petite, I knew I'd probably have to take it to the tailor as it's from the regular asos line, but the good sale price and extra % off convinced me it was still a bargain with the alterations taken into account.

Pairing this skirt with a grey tee was my first idea for an outfit when I saw it on the website, and I love the way it looks. Was a little unsure what jacket to wear at first as it's winter and chilly in the mornings when I go to my weekly parents group, so I wanted to be cosy. Had to babywear though, as we were asked to leave our strollers at home to create more space in the meeting room. When I'm going to be wearing baby T in his carrier I'm much fussier about what I wear. Want it to be soft for him to rest his little face against, so a cardi was the best choice as it has no zips. Made it a little cold for me in the morning but did give me a chance to wear this cardi knotted with a maxi skirt, prefer it this way instead of worn open and loose like last time.

It's funny how life with baby is impacting my outfits in ways I'd never considered before!


Last worn: wayfarers, red cardi, grey tee, Converse. First time I've worn the skirt as it's a recent purchase.

---

Here's what I wore on the weekend:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Jacket: Zara frayed basket weave cardigan in blue
Tee: Atmos&Here stripe tee
Skirt: Target grey marle maxi skirt
Shoes: Marc by Marc Jacobs studded mouse flats in grey


I've worn this grey skirt and blue jacket together before to go out with baby T, I just didn't get the chance to take a photo. As I liked the combination I wanted to wear it again, and managed to get a photo this time! Did make the outfit a little different, as I wore a striped tee this time and a purple one previously. I like the way the stripes look with the tweed texture of the jacket.

Also decided to change the shoes this time around. My Converse have been getting worn a lot lately! They usually get more wear in winter anyway, but I've really been relying on them as an easy footwear choice when I'm hurriedly getting dressed each day. Need to try and wear some of my other shoes a little more. Especially on weekends, where DH is home to help with baby and I can spend an extra few minutes hunting for a nice shoe. Last time I wore these shoes I was pregnant, and enjoying the fact that these mouse flats had stretched a little more than my other ones, so my swollen pregnancy feet could squeeze into them. Thankfully not stretched out so much that a little heel guard/cushion can't fix them post-pregnancy.


Last worn: sunglasses (see above), Zara tweed cardi, stripe tee, grey maxi skirt, studded mouse flats.

Linking up with WIWW, Wardrobe Wednesday, What I Wore, Style Me Wednesday, Fashion Informant, Tres Chic Fashion, Summer Style today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

ASOS Pastel Aztec Print Scarf with Cobalt Blue and Purple

Here's what I wore to take baby T for a check up:

Jacket: Wittner 'Santa Fe' cobalt blue leather jacket
Scarf: Asos pastel Aztec print scarf (on sale!, new purchase)
Dress: Asos grey skater dress (on sale!, new purchase)
Shoes: Asos Aggie leather western ankle boots in black
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


Took the opportunity to get out of PJs and take baby for a check up at our local child health clinic. We have been visiting a lot as it's nice to have a reason to get up and get out of the house with baby, rather than just walking Cooper! Baby T is thriving, our frequent visits are just taking advantage of all the support we have available. For those not in Australia, at the clinic you can book appointments to have regular and ad-hoc chats with the nurses, attend sessions about various baby and child related things (like advice on settling baby to sleep!), and just go to weigh baby and make sure everything is progressing well. It's a fantastic service! I'm very grateful to have access to so much help and support as a new mother.

First time I've worn this recently purchased scarf, it's so pretty. I paired it with the grey dress (also on its first wear) as I thought the pastel colours paired worked well. Couldn't resist adding just a little more colour with the cobalt blue of this leather jacket though. It's a good piece for the Style and Shenanigans texture challenge: leather.
It's almost Spring, and I've only worn this jacket twice this Winter. I paid full price for it, and it's the most expensive clothing item I own - even have some handbags that are cheaper! It has been worn so little this year as I'm a little worried about holding a newborn baby around it. I'm trying to wear the jacket on days I don't have to be out long and shouldn't need to feed baby T, to avoid any accidents. When I was a little girl, I left my mark on a family friend's leather jacket, and even after dry cleaning it was never the same....wouldn't want that to happen to this! Hopefully will get more wear next year.


Last worn: blue leather jacket, Asos ankle boots, Marc by Marc Jacobs baby bag. First time I've worn the scarf and dress as they are recent purchases.

---

Here's what I wore to go to the post office:

Jacket: Bubblegum denim jacket
Scarf: Asos pastel Aztec print scarf
Tee: Spectrum basic v-neck tee in washed lilac
Skirt: Jeanswest plain jersey black maxi skirt
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag
Stroller: Steelcraft Strider Compact


Loved wearing this scarf so much I wore it again the very next day! Just a nice casual outfit to go to the post office and run some errands with baby T. Paired the pastels with blue again, and some purple with the tee. It was such a warm day, I ended up taking the denim jacket off as we walked home in the sunshine. The scarf kept me cosy enough.

As this is the second time I've worn the scarf (and I'm evaluating all my July purchases), the final verdict:
It's certainly much bigger than I expected, a nice blanket size scarf. I didn't check the measurements before I bought it. It's warm and I like the print and colours. I'm just concerned it might be a little too big on me, what do you think? Need to think of more creative ways to tie and wear it in future. Might not get worn as much as I thought it would as the weather warms, but it was a bargain at under $10 (on sale with an extra % off) so I should still get my money's worth from the purchase.


Last worn: pastel printed scarf (see above), denim jacket, purple tee, black maxi skirt, Converse, MbMJ baby bag (see above).

Linking up with Let It Shine, Style To Inspire, Mix it Mondays, DC in Style, Manic Monday, SNS Style Challenge, Style Sessions, Confident Twosday, Trend Sin Linkup today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Winter Outfits: Dresses and Leggings

Here's what I wore to go to a doctor's appointment and visit friends:

Sunglasses: Bali sunglasses C/O Kameleonz (20% discount with code 'MICA')
Scarf: Liquorish owl print scarf in grey (on sale!)
Dress: Zara printed bib front tunic dress
Leggings: Cotton On
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


Wore this to take baby T to the paediatrician for his regular check-up and to visit some friends to hand out baby's birth announcement cards.

Last time I wore this tunic it was belted over my large third trimester baby bump, with leggings to keep things modest as the bump was pulling the dress up quite a bit! Decided to try a more winter version of that look, minus the baby belly and the belt. The previous time I wore this tunic dress unbelted I was hiding my little second trimester baby bump, and sweltering in the heat. Wearing Converse, rolling the sleeves down and adding a big cosy scarf made the dress more suitable for winter weather, but I did wish I'd added a jacket too when it got chilly near the end of the day.


Last worn: Kameleonz sunnies, printed tunic dress, owl print scarf, grey leggings, Converse, Marc by Marc Jacobs baby bag.

---

Here's what I wore stop by the clinic:

Jacket: Wittner 'Santa Fe' cobalt blue leather jacket
Dress: Atmos&Here navy stripe tee dress
Leggings: Cotton On
Shoes: Converse Chuck Taylor All Star low in black


Another dress and leggings combo! A daytime outfit with this dress as I headed to our local clinic. I wore it for an evening out previously. I don't like this outfit as much as the one I wore above despite it following the same formula. I think with the three quarter length leggings and the jacket and the stripes the proportions are a bit off. Maybe if I'd belted the dress? As I'm getting better at falling into a routine with baby and taking daily photos, I have more photos stacking up than I have time to write blog posts for, so I was considering just not posting this photo at first. I learn from all the photos I take though and sharing what I wore here on the blog means I can get other points of view or suggestions for improvements, so I kept it. How would you change this outfit to make it less of a fail?

As it's the second wear of the dress during my "wear my latest purchases" challenge, the final verdict:
Although I don't like this outfit, I love this dress. Really happy I bought it and I can think of lots of ways to wear it more in winter and when the weather starts to warm up. I'm actively trying not to wear it so I can wear some of my other July purchases!


Last worn: cobalt leather jacket, stripe tee dress, black leggings, Converse (see above).

Linking up with Fashion Item Friday, Friday's Fab Favourites, Passion for Fashion, Casual Friday, Sunday Funday today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Skinny Jeans and Tees

I'm blogging less regularly as life revolves around baby T. I now have more photos than I have time to post which means I can post similar themed outfits together when I get a chance to blog. Today I'm sharing two different skinny jeans outfits.


Here's what I wore to go to my new parents group:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Scarf: Seed Heritage Paisley print snood (new purchase)
Tee: Kmart plain black tee
Jeans: Sass and Bide 'Three Words' metallic gold jeans (new purchase)
Shoes: black slim Havaianas thongs
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


I feel I should explain this outfit! Yes, it's winter here in Queensland, but we had a bit of a mini-heatwave where the temperatures got up to early summer temps during the day. That's when I wore this outfit (about a week and a half ago), which explains the lack of coat and warm shoes. I thought that the snood paired really nicely with the jeans, although the studs on the snood are silver and the jeans are gold. This is the second pair of jeans that I bought on ebay a while back to celebrate fitting back into regular denim again and putting away my maternity jeans. First wearing of the snood since I bought it last month, need to wear it again soon to meet my goal of wearing everything I bought in July at least twice by the end of August.

Have always wanted a pair of metallic jeans! Couldn't resist when I saw these online. DH thinks that they are a bit much but I think they are just right. What do you think? They are actually cropped jeans, but as I'm so short they are just hitting above the ankle, quite a nice length on me. Means I don't need to go to the tailor to shorten them ;)


Last worn: Ray-Ban wayfarers, black tee, Havaianas, baby bag. First time I've worn the snood and jeans on the blog.

---

Here's what I wore to go out early in the morning with baby T:

Sunglasses: Rayban new Wayfarers
Jacket: Asos Black by Markus Lupfer printed leather jacket
Tee: Atmos&Here 'Cara' mesh panel tee
Tank (under tee): Kmart lilac basic singlet
Jeans: Jeanswest 'shale' super skinny jeans
Shoes: Asos Cleo leather boots in black
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


The heat-wave was short lived, so back to winter temperatures, and winter clothing. It was fun while it lasted! Wore this outfit to go out early in the morning to see the child health nurse. This is only the second time I've worn the jeans on the blog, the first was early in the second trimester. After the baby bump expanded, I couldn't squeeze into them any more. Pleased I could wear them again now, so many months on!

This is also the second wearing of this new sheer stripe tee from my July purchases. It looks much nicer with the jeans in this photo than it did last time with the maxi skirt I think.

As it's the second wearing of the tee since I bought it, the final verdict is:
The oversize shape is great but the way it's cut might limit what I can wear it with. It looks awesome with jeans but I wasn't too impressed with the photo after pairing it with a maxi skirt first time I wore it. Will need to be conscious that I don't just fall into a denim rut with it. Although I like it, it's not as practical a purchase as I thought it would be - striped tee, sheer so I can layer different coloured tanks underneath each time - seemed like a winner! Need to focus more on different ways I could wear things before I buy them.


Last worn: Ray-ban (see above), printed leather jacket, lilac tank, stripe tee, skinny jeans, leather boots, baby bag (see above).

Linking up with Style Sessions, Confident Twosday, Wardrobe Wednesday, WIWW, What I Wore, Style Me Wednesday, Spotlight Weekly, Tres-Chic, Summer Style today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Dresses and Ankle Boots | Chambray and Paisley Print

Here's what I wore to go to the movies with DH:

Jacket: Zara black blazer
Dress: Jeanswest 'Melanie' paisley mixed print dress (on sale, plus extra 40% off!)
Belt: Kmart thin black glitter belt
Shoes: Asos Aggie leather western ankle boots in black
Bag: Balenciaga envelope clutch in 2012 mangue with giant 12 RGGH


Got the chance to get dressed up a little! Wore this to go on an afternoon movie date with hubby while the in-laws baby sat. We didn't do dinner and a movie like our usual date nights, as we didn't want to be away from baby T too long, but it was fun to go out and see a movie.

Last time I wore this dress, as well as being near the end of the third trimester, I paired it with my yellow Rebecca Minkoff Swing bag. Really liked that colour combination, so repeated it again with the Balenciaga clutch. First time I've worn the dress without the baby bump too, still as cute and comfortable as when I was pregnant. Just couldn't wear a necklace this time as I'm still keeping accessories simple and grabby-baby friendly!


Last worn: Zara blazer, paisley print dress, glitter belt, ankle boots, Balenciaga envelope clutch.

---

Here's what I wore to pop to the shops with baby T:

Scarf: Nali feather print pashmina scarf
Dress: Ezra chambray shift dress (on sale here)
Shoes: Acne pistol boots in "skin"


Second outfit with this chambray shift dress, one of my July purchases. The Acne pistol boots were the thing I could see myself wearing with this dress when I came across it in the Iconic sale. Somehow doesn't look as great in the photo as I thought it would be, or as it felt it looked as I wore it. Might have to try this combination again, maybe with a different scarf? I don't go bare-legged with boots often, has to be the right kind of weather, so hopefully I'll get a chance to re-try this outfit.

As I'm doing for all my new purchases, my verdict on the dress:
Not as easy to wear in winter as I thought it would be, but I'm confident I will still get lots of wear out of it as the weather heats up. Not the perfect purchase for right now, but still happy I have it for warmer days. One of those "I'll buy it now and wear it later" purchases I need to make sure I actually do wear later!


Last worn: feather print scarf, chambray dress, Acne pistol boots.



Linking up with Sunday FunDay, Let It Shine, Style To Inspire, Manic Monday, Mix It Mondays, Real Mum Style today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Stella McCartney Heart Print Scarf, Stripes and July Purchases

Despite filling up most of my day looking after baby T, I do get a few minutes to myself now and then, and the chance to read my emails and shop the sales they notify me of. I was actually surprised at how much online shopping I was able to do in July! (Haul video on youtube.) I've decided to get better at tracking my purchases on the blog, and have a goal of wearing everything I buy at least twice in a month since I bought it.

Hopefully doing this will help me accomplish a few things:

• keep my spending in check
• ensure I wear what I buy. When I don't wear it, reflect on why it didn't get worn so I don't repeat mistakes
• give me some inspiration for what to wear each day as I've been feeling a little uninspired lately.

With the extra 20% off sale code at Matches Fashion, I bought this printed scarf. I ended up wearing it twice with stripes! I will need to wear it with something else next time.


Here's what I wore to go shopping with baby T:

Sunglasses: Bali sunglasses C/O Kameleonz (20% discount with code 'MICA')
Scarf: Stella McCartney heart print scarf (on sale here, new purchase)
Tee: Atmos&Here oversized stripe tee
Jeans: Jeanswest Super Skinny Jeans in Mid Indigo
Shoes: Nine West fascinate ballet flats in silver glitter
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs pretty nylon Eliz-A-Baby bag


This tee was a favourite of mine near the end of my pregnancy. I bought it while I was pregnant, so this is its first wearing without the baby bump! Last time I wore it I was 40 weeks pregnant and wondering when baby was going to arrive, as he was overdue. Very similar outfit this time around, although with regular skinny jeans instead of maternity ones. Made a very blue outfit with the addition of the scarf, and kept me cosy as I went shopping with baby.


Last worn: Atmos&Here stripe tee, skinny jeans, glitter flats, Marc Jacobs baby bag. First time I've worn the scarf.

---

Here's what I wore to go to a baby shower:

Jacket: Bubblegum denim jacket
Scarf: Stella McCartney heart print scarf (on sale here)
Dress: Jeanswest 'Rita' stripe jersey dress
Belt: Asos metal keeper skinny waist belt in bright blue (hidden by scarf)
Shoes: Asos Aggie leather western ankle boots in black
Bag: Balenciaga giant hardware Day bag in 2009 tempete


Loved the heart print and stripes combination so much that I decided to wear it again. I'm realising I need to try and find ways to wear my office dresses while on maternity leave, or they will just take up space in my wardrobe. Have been wanting to wear this dress for a while, and a baby shower seemed like a great time to wear a pretty dress :) Last wore it in the second trimester, before the bump got too big for it.

Wasn't sure if the shower would be indoors or outdoors, so the scarf and jacket were good layers to keep me warm. They came in handy when I got back late in the evening (so indoor night time pic) and it was quite chilly. The Matches website states the scarf is big enough to double as a travel blanket too - it is! - and it's very cosy.

As the second wear of this scarf since I bought it, the final verdict is:
I'm happy I purchased it. I love blue, prints, and scarves so I think it was always going to be a winner.


Last worn: denim jacket, scarf (see above), striped dress, blue belt, ankle boots, Balenciaga day bag.


Check out my other July purchases on youtube:

Linking up with What I Wore, Style Me Wednesday, Tres-Chic Fashion Thursday, Spotlight Weekly, Fashion and Faith, Friday's Fab Favourites, Fashion Item Friday today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube

Winter Outfits: Skinny Jeans and Leather Boots

I'm blogging less regularly as life revolves around baby T. I now have more photos than I have time to post, as my stay-at-home-in-pyjamas days are reducing. It means that I can post similar themed outfits together when I do get a chance to blog, so today I'm sharing two different jeans and boots outfits!


Here's what I wore to pop out without baby T:

Knit: Warehouse grey bead front jumper
Jeans: Jeanswest blue skinny jeans
Shoes: Asos Cleo leather boots in tan
Bracelets: the usual
Bag: Audrey leather clutch in cognac C/O Avalina Leather


When I do have to go out without baby T, I take the chance to wear one of my now neglected handbags, even if all I really need is a wallet and phone. Thought I'd wear my cute clutch from Avalina leather again, I like it worn crossbody. Nice to find more jeans I can squeeze into post-baby too! I'm ever so slowly expanding my wearable wardrobe options, after being unable to wear the majority of my wardrobe during pregnancy.

Was a little chilly in this - would have been nice with a jacket or scarf I think. I used to check the weather forecast before planning what I'd wear the next day. Now I just look outside and try guess what the weather will be like while I hurriedly pull on clothes as baby T naps or waits impatiently in his swing for me to get ready so we can go, hehe!


Last worn: studded grey knit, skinny jeans, Asos leather boots, tan clutch.

---

Here's what I wore to my first new parents group meeting:

Jacket: Zara black blazer
Scarf: Alexander McQueen pink pashmina in skull and floral print
Tee: Atmos&Here rolled sleeve oversize tee in black
Jeans: Sass and Bide 'The Archetype' Feather Print Jeans (new purchase)
Shoes: Asos Cleo leather boots in black
Bracelets: the usual


I'd actually planned this outfit in my head before I pulled it on - although I did want to wear the brown boots above with it, I swapped to black boots at the last minute as I thought it looked better. Wanted to look good and be on time for our first new parents group at the clinic, to make a good first impression! Thought the yellow in the scarf made it a good choice to pair with the yellow in the jeans. I bought the pants on ebay to celebrate fitting back into non-maternity jeans.

When I took this photo I was feeling so pleased that everything was going to plan and baby T had been settled for a while. I'd been up with him since 3.30 am so I was a little worried we would not be ready, but he settled eventually. I was able to fix my hair, get us both dressed, fed, and arrive at our first new parents group only 8 minutes late. Only to find out that the meeting started 30 minutes earlier than I thought it did, so I was actually 38 minutes late....I was surprised when the group packed up shortly after I'd arrived, and so embarrassed when I realised how late I was! So much for good first impressions! ;)


Last worn: Zara blazer, pink and yellow scarf, black tee, Asos leather boots. First time I've worn the jeans as they are a recent purchase.

Linking up with Mix It Mondays, Monday Bloom, Manic Monday, Real Mum Style, Style Sessions, Stylish Tuesday, WIWW, Wardrobe Wednesday today.

Follow Away From the Blue on:
Bloglovin : Facebook : Twitter : Google Plus : Instagram : Youtube