Post Pregnancy Wishlist | Just Add Ginger

By the time I have popped out a child, it will have been almost a year since I bought many clothes in my pre-pregnancy size and style. In place of skinny jeans and bodycon dresses I now find myself - most days - opting for looser fitting garments, leggings, and empire lines. So when it comes to a Spring wardrobe, me and my future self are pretty much at a loss of what I am actually going to wear. Especially when you throw bodily changes into the mix. My boobs may grow even more, and I obviously won't have a baby bump anymore. Thinking about how I'm going to easily adopt my style without breaking the bank is something that is currently boggling my mind.

Thankfully, there are a few pieces out there that have caught my eye that I think will easily help me transition back, mixing in with my plethora of tank tops, floaty tops and swing dresses easily, and meaning that even though my core staples will remain the same, I'll be able to inject a little bit more "me" back into the mix.

1. Joanie Classic Pinny Classic Pinafore Dress

Pretty much for my entire pregnancy I have been coveting something from the Joanie website. However, with these usually being super-cute slim-fitting jumpers, so far I have refrained from making an order. However, when I spotted this gorgeous pinafore, I knew that some how, some day, it would have to find its way into my wardrobe. It'll look sweet with sweaters and make a pretty overlay for blouses, whilst still hiding any wobbly bits I may still be getting used to. Determined to hold back a little longer, you can only imagine my absolute delight to be told by Joanie that I had won a dress for #NationalDressDay and that this little beauty would be on its way to me. Requesting a size 12 for boob and bum growth allowance, I can't wait to style this up for Spring!

2. Boohoo Ellie Shredded Back Longline Denim Jacket

A girl of simple taste when it comes to style, I really loved the laid-back look pre-pregnancy and enjoyed nothing more than turning to my staples of block-colour tops, distressed denim or leggings and ankle boots. Which is why I think this oversized jacket from Boohoo makes such a statement piece to incorporate into my wardrobe. If I am breastfeeding, I'll be living in tops and dresses that I can easily manoeuvre, so having something to slip on over the top like this that adds a little bit more drama and edge will mean that even though I may be living in the same clothes for a while, I'll always be able to switch up my styling.

3. ASOS Maternity Nursing Scallop Dress With Short Sleeves

When it comes to Spring colours, I have definitely found myself jumping on board the blush pink train. I think it is such a pretty shade (surprising even myself) and can't wait to inject a little more colour - if somewhat subdued - into my closet. With the possibility of needing to free the boob on the horizon, nursing fashion is not entirely out of my head. Putting my contempt for high street maternity fashion to one side, I have fallen for this sweet scalloped nursing dress from ASOS. Even though it's quite formal a piece, and I have no events planned, I think this will look lovely across the Spring and Summer seasons by simple sliding on a pair of gladiator flats and a thin knit cardigan, or even on a colder days a pair of statement embroidered boots and the denim jacket from Boohoo.

4. QED Grey Glitter Lip Front Oversized Jumper

Now I'm not stupid. I know that there may be days where all I want to do is slob around in sweatpants and a oversized mens jumper (you should see me now), with a faint scent of sour milk lingering around me and no motivation whatsoever for anything. However, at the moment I still like to see myself doing that with a touch more elegance. Oversized styles have always been a big part of my dress sense, which is why I was drawn to this QED top on the New Look website. I think the structure is really interesting, and whereas I have no idea if it would suit me, on lazy days where I find myself just not giving a shit, something like this will not only come in really handy, but also help me easily retain some semblance of normalcy.

What's on your current wardrobe wishlist?

Ma Vie Bohème | Just Add Ginger

It's no secret. I am finding the thought of looking for bridesmaid dresses very stressful. I'm having trouble with the colour, finding a style I like..the list goes on and on!

So when I found out that Glitzy Secrets - an online stockist for some of the prettiest wedding jewellery and accessories I've ever seen -was launching a new tool* to help you uncover your vintage  wedding style, I got really excited. Would some inspiration finally come at last? Thank GOODNESS!

I love anything Bohemian inspired. I love the fashions of the 60s and 70s. Growing up I'd always ask to try MG's "hippie" dresses from that era. One of the reasons I got my fringe cut in was so that I would look more of that time. So naturally, it was to my delight that the tool told me my vintage wedding style was the 1970's! 

Putting myself in that carefree fashion age, I sat back and thought. Our wedding has a "vintage shabby-chic" theme, and is all about whimsy and having fun. With so many stand-out trends from the 70s, if I was to look back then and take inspiration from the styles that I love, what alternatives to your bog-standard bridesmaid dresses could I put my 'maids in to make them comfortable, creative, and completely unique? 

Look One 

Floral Playsuit: ASOS  | Floppy Hat: H&M  | Gold Clutch: unknown | Chelsea Boots: New Look | Fur Jacket (below): New Look 

For the first look, I went for something really fun and girly. When I think of 70s fashion, I immediately think of big bold florals, hot pants and glamorous accessories. This look combines all three ideas. A playsuit would be a really fun alternative for 'maids, especially for a Spring or Summer wedding. You can dress a playsuit up or down as much as you like, and they just add an instant fun flair. And if it's a Winter wedding, throw on a pair of tights and everyone is good to go!

Look Two

Green Swing Dress: ASOS  | Floppy Hat: (as before)  | Tan Belt: Primark (from a dress)  | Chelsea Boots: (as before) | Sunglasses: M&S

The 70s was all about playing with hemlines, and the 60s mini dress was ever popular. This swing dress from ASOS can be worn midi, but I chose to change the style by adding a belt. Swing dresses are so comfortable that there is no way my bridesmaids would feel restricted. 

Look Three

Black Maxi Dress: ASOS | Rose Gold Collar Necklace: H&M  |  Chunky Heels: Daisy Street | High Heel Boots (below):  H&M | Fur Jacket: (as before)

This look is all about 70s glamour, and is my favourite look of all! There is a true sense of Bohemia with the length of the dress, but the fluttery kimono sleeves make it ever so slightly Disco, and the rose god collar adds a touch of opulence. This is definitely a style I would put my 'maids in because it is just so effortlessly 70s-chic! The dress is empire line (so extremely flattering.) You can team it with any shoe and it just looks beautiful! The split on the left side is sexy but not showy, and I know that my bridesmaids would all look stunning in this outfit!

*To find your vintage wedding style era, take the test at https://www.glitzysecrets.com/find-your-vintage-wedding-style/

Ginger Fashion: Autumn Days Are Made Of This

Grey Duffle Coat: Florence & Fred, Blanket Scarf: Primark, Skater Dress: Primark, Chelsea Boots: New Look

My style has been evolving a lot lately. Right now, I'm sitting in my blogging space with a huge bag of old, unwanted, or worn-to-death clothes behind me. As I'm getting further and further into my 20s, I'm finding myself being more and more drawn to the more simplistic styles. And forever an advocate of the multi-wear pieces, it was time to update my wardrobe a bit. 

Grey Marl Coat: Primark, Blanket Scarf: Primark, Elephant Print Swing Dress: ASOS, Chelsea Boots: New Look

These are the kind of looks I've been loving lately. With the newest additions to my wardrobe being this amazing snuggly blanket scarf from Primark and my Florence & Fred hooded duffle coat I feel like all the pieces I love so much can get a re-vamp ready for Autumn. 

With a new hairstyle option under my belt (check out my braid tutorial here,) I feel like I have found a really timeless, effortless, "I woke up like this" (even though I didn't) look that I can carry from Autumn to Winter.

Ginger Fashion: Be Original

T-Shirt: Original Attire (received at the NWBLPOOL event). Vest Top: H&M. Skater Skirt: Primark.

I think the last time I wore an oversized t-shirt was in the 90s. Ever since then, I've been a bit afraid of them. Don't get me wrong, I love a good graphic print tee, but the idea of wearing a big, baggy one alwayus sent me into a bit of a fluster. 

But when I received an Original Attire t shirt as part of the North West Bloggers event goody bag, I got really excited. Instant flashes of how I could layer it went flying through my head. 

I apologise for my horrendous attempt at modelling

Having a monochrome base to work with makes it really easy to style the t-shirt. Opting to layer, I did my tried and tested hair tie trick and hitched up the side to create a cropped effect. I felt so comfortable-casual, and yet really pretty and girlie at the same time: something I never thought I'd get out of a t-shirt! 

This t-shirt looks great with a skirt. What has made me click with it instantly is that I know I can team it with anything - leggings, jeggings, denim shorts, oversized cardigans, shirts, high-waisted jeans - I know it's going to be a go-to staple in my wardrobe from now on.. And I can't wait to add more Original Attire pieces to my wardrobe! 

Ginger's Fashion: Chelsea Girl

I haven't been out for a good old "knee's up" since before Christmas. 

So naturally, on Saturday night, I was desperately itching to get my boogie shoes on. But I was not desperately itching to get out in to the horrible rain that had been inescapable all day. How could I possibly wear my old faithful suede shoe-boots and wade through puddles?

It was just going to have to be a non-heels occasion. 

Bowler Hat: Topshop
Military Jacket: Primark
Blue Skater Dress: H&M
Studded Belt: Primark (detached from another dress)
Chelsea Boots: New Look
Pear Bracelets: Various
Stacking Rings: H&M 

This was the perfect opportunity to test out styling up my new shiny Chelsea boots that I ordered from New Look a few weeks ago. I had worn them out during the day, but not had the chance to test-drive them for a night on the town. 

I decided to go for one of my favourite bargainous H&M dresses, and completely bling-myself out with accessories. With the finishing touch of my beloved Topshop bowler, I was good to go. It felt so good to be comfortable and feel fabulous at the same time...One of those rare occasions where function and fashion went hand-in-hand and skipped merrily along together. 

I kept my hair au-natural, and went for a brown-toned smoky eye and red lip combo (post selfie-taking.) I always like to rock this combo when I'm using a basic as my main outfit to inject some extra pazzaz in to my look and emphasise my hair (which I use as my main accessory.) 

What was your outfit of choice this weekend? 

Ginger Fashion: OOTD Update

Normally when summer comes around, I crack out the maxi skirts, linen trousers, and clothing that generally hides my legs from total view. 

Well.... this summer there is no way I intend to forgo my precious maxi style, but I am definitely embracing the fact that I am a young woman and I am really proud of who I am! I'm in a stupendously happy place in my life, so it's time to reflect that in my clothing choices! 

Here are some of the summer styles I have been working lately. All photos are taken from my Instagram account. 

My Username is: Gingerjax

I have quite a relaxed style, especially in the summer, and like pieces that I can mix and match and play around with

Print Scarf: Primark 

Black Maxi Dress: ASOS

Neon Kimono: H&M

Leaf Necklace: ASOS (Old)

Crop Top: New Look

High Waisted Shorts: River Island (Old)

Stackable Rings: H&M

Bracelets: A Present

White Shirt: River Island

Maxi Skirt: Primark 

Stackable Rings: H&M

Playsuit: River Island

I'm off to France next week with my parents. 14 days of soaking up the French sun and indulging in a glass of vino or two! I'll definitely be taking some of these pieces with me! 

Pssst: Don't forget to check out my JustaddGinger FB page for picture, post, and video updates

Ginger x

A Mini Fashion Haul | Just Add Ginger

Blogging everyday throughout April was so much fun, but I did get a bit behind on the day-to-day life stuff, so needed to take a bit of a break to sort myself out and just enjoy life. There have been loads of exciting things going on lately, and I really wanted to engulf myself in them and have a good time! 

During these few weeks I have done a little bit of shopping, so I thought I'd share my purchases with you in mini haul posts...this one is for fashion items, and next time I will cover beauty. 

Nb: I am in no way showing off what I've bought. I really like watching hauls on YouTube, or reading haul blog posts because it gives me the chance to see what clothes are out there on the high street/online. This is what I'm doing in sharing my purchases with you. 

New Look 

These are my newest purchase. 

A few months ago, I bought a pair of wedged trainers from Primark. I was desperate for a pair of comfortable shoes for a weekend and they were a complete impulse buy.....I fell completely in love with them! For the summer, I wanted a lighter coloured pair, and found these beauties in New Look. They are super-comfortable, and I particularly loved the spike detail on the velcro strap. The colour is the perfect for wearing right now all the way through to Autumn! I already have big plans for these shoes!

Playsuits are normally my arch-nemesis. I absolutely LOVE them, but normally, the cut does not suit me at all. My legs and around my hip area (and my bum) are quite shapely compared to the rest of me, so wearing playsuits can make these areas look even big. 

However, the cut of this playsuit is super flattering. The shorts are slightly flared, and almost culotte-style, so don't cling to my legs. I really like the design too. There's something quite Art Deco and Great Gatsby about it. When I put it on I felt instantly glamorous!

With warmer weather gradually starting to creep in, I knew I wanted to pick up a pair of wedges. Because if foot issues, it is impossible for me to wear flip flops because they don't stay on my feet. Sandals/wedges with thin straps near the toe are out of the question because my left pinky likes to pop out the side, and I always need to have a strap that secures my foot in. 

With these limitations (and wide feet to add to the mix,) finding a pair of wedges that I could actually wear was a bit tricky. I found these in the New Look in Westfield, and couldn't believe it when they fit me! The buckle at the front means I can loosen the shoe to accommodate my chubster feet, and the strap at the side means my feet are in no danger of going anywhere! The tan colour is perfect for the summer, and the wedge height is perfect for comfort (and high enough to be worn night time too.) I'd definitely recommend giving these a try if your feet are on the wider side, but they are beautiful shoes even if you have slimmer feet too! 

H&M 

I spotted this dress quite a while ago in H&M. I wasn't too sure at the time if I liked enough to buy it. But then at home, I decided I did really like it, went back to find it, and it had vanished from sight! 

Noooooo!!! 

When I went to Westfield, I found it again in the H&M there and immediately picked it up. I am a huge fan of the skater dress style as for my body shape it is an extremely flattering cut (nips me in at the waist and skims my hips.) the skirt is mini length, so great for day time or night time looks! And I just love the statement the tiger makes staring out from the top...it's instantly eye-catching and the colours pop out from the black fabric. 

I have already worn this dress. Check out my Instagram for how I styled it up.  

ASOS 

Like the H&M dress, I had been eyeing up this maxi dress from ASOS for a while. Because of my shape, I lot of maxi dresses I have tried on in thec past have not suited me because they are just shift or shealth style, and cling to me in all the wrong places. This dress however, is A Line, so flares out just after the waist and skims over the parts of me I don't want to accentuation. 

I decided to go for the dress in the black because I wanted something quite classic that I could wear all year round rather than just in the summer. I thought black would be the best choice for this as it is such a versatile colour, and carries through all the seasons. 

It never goes out of style!

Again. I have worn this dress already, so check out my Instagram if you want to see how I styled the dress. I'll probably do a lookbook post/video on it soon too!

Everything featured in this haul was under the £30 mark. I'm a great believer in investing in affordable fashion that I'm going to enjoy wearing again and again without fear of my purse erupting into flames!

What fashion items have you been buying recently? Any recommendations?

O is for OOTD's

O: OOTD's

Instagram: @Gingerjax

If you have checked out my Instagram then you will know that I often post OOTD pictures. For those of you who don't know what an OOTD is, it stands for "Outfit of the Day."

I think it's great being able to share how you style up different looks - especially those from the high street! I know I've picked up a lot of ideas through other Instagram OOTD posts. Watching OOTD videos on YouTube is also a great way to find new ways to style different items of clothing if you're unsure of how to wear certain things, or want to try a new look!

And now that I have my own JustAddGinger channel on YouTube, I wanted to give OOTD (or OOTE: Outfit of the Evening) videos a go too. Here's my latest....I'm hoping to make them quite a regular feature!

Ginger x

Primark & MAC Haul | Just Add Ginger

Today in the UK, it is Bank Holiday Monday, so naturally I forgot to turn my work alarm off...Hello 8/10am wake up call. FAIL! 

Anywhoo....here is a haul of all the goodies I picked up t'other day in town. Again, please don't think I'm showing off. I just want to share what's out there on the high street at the moment (I've been really impressed.)

Primark Goodies

 £3.00....Bargain! 

These shoes were a bit of a risk, because I can't really wear shoes without straps (my left foot has no arch!) But they are SO comfortable...and they have really good grip so stay on my feets! I don't know what you'd call them. Kind of a cross between a deck shoe, a loafer and a plimsole...

A Ploafdeck?! 

Only issue...because they are stretchy them come up big...I had to buy a size 5 instead of my usual 6, and they are still a teeny bit big on my right foot! 

£7.00 

You know when you are in a shop, and you pass a garment. Everything goes into slow motion and angels start singing? ...I had that with this top! I LOVE it! It has such a whimsical print, and has STUDS (my current obsession). 

The dipped hem gives an edgy twist, and the top itself is so comfy! Would look good with denim jacket, leather jacket, or drawn in at the waist with a belt. I might even try wearing it with some denim shorts and tights for the Winter. Can see this being really versatile!

£6.00 

I absolutely love the colour of this top...can see the maroony-purple coming back for the Autumn/Winter season on the high street. I knew I had to invest the minute I saw it. The hem doesn't quite cover the derrière area, but would look great with jeans or shorts if you don't want to risk it with leggings...but the fabric has stretch, and feels so luxe. Beautiful! 

£13.00 

This was the first item I picked up on my shopping trip. I saw the silhouette, the full shirt, and in my basket it went! I'm one of the those really excitable people who likes to spin around to make my skirt swing out, and this dress does not disappoint. There is a zip down the back of the dress, which makes the top really fitted, and the skirt flare out more. It's the kind of dress that you could wear day to night, style up or down, and is flattering for all body types...You can't go wrong really! 

£13.00 

 I've saved my favourite until last. I love, love, love this dress! The contrast piping and collar as well as the print itself are just stunning. And it's such a flattering shape too. (It did come with a belt, but I took it off...I'm not a huge fan of Primark belts...the sizing is a bit strange!) The dress is double layered, so if, like me, you have broader shoulders, you may want to try a size bigger, because you might find the arm holes a bit tight. But this dress is so gorgeous. I went to my friend's house yesterday, and wore this dress. Everyone was shocked when I said it was from Primark. 

Seriously, go and check out Primark! They have so many amazing clothes at the moment. I've been so impressed with the quality and design too! Definitely beats the recession blues when you can treat yourself to lots of lovely things without breaking the bank! 

Well done Primark! 

MAC 

£14.00 

"Angel" Frost Lipstick

Popped my MAC cherry at last! 'Angel' is a frosted pinky nude that looks like it's going to be perfect to wear for day or night out looks - I can't wait to give it its first outing.

Shopping the high street and looking for good pieces goes to show that you can still treat yourself from time to time without breaking the bank. 

All hail the high street!