Dorothy Perkins

Dorothy Perkins hasn't got a particularly good reputation. The name certainly doesn't help, let's be honest. However, if you look at the clothes as if you are browsing in Topshop (it is part of the same retail group, anyway) and there are some really nice pieces to be found there. Try and look beyond the slightly mumsy clothing, sturdy heels, sensible work blouses and cheap looking handbags, and find the gems. I managed to do that today.

Printed jeans £25

Shoes £18

Jacket £45

The jeans are really soft and stretchy, meaning they'd be really comfy for day or night, and could even be smartened up enough to wear to work. I love wearing print, but only if it's quite understated, so this is perfect.

The shoes are an absolute steal. They look and feel more expensive than £18, and will replace my other flat black pumps for work as they're getting quite tatty. 

The jacket is not something I'd normally go for, as I think structured shoulders and a boxy fit make me look wide as I'm quite busty, but this one is cut well so it defines my waist and can fit over my chest. The black trim means it will go with the rest of my workwear (I love black and greys) and will look great with ankle grazer grazer peg trousers.

Fabienne x

New Year's Eve Break in Bath

Because Carlos and I didn't spend Christmas together (Carlos goes to see his family), we like to go away over New Year's Eve together. 

We had an amazing time in Bath. It is definitely my favourite British city. I had long lazy baths in Bath (because I like the word play) and went for long walks around the whole city. On new year's eve itself, we went for dinner at a Loch Fyne restaurant, and had lobster frites. This is now my new favourite food. 

I took this break to be my final days of indulgence before dieting in the new year, so drank a lot of prosecco and pear cidre, ate a lot of brie, butter and the Laduree macaroons we went to Harrods to get especially. 

Now that I am back, I am using the MyFitnessPal app on my iPhone to count calories and hopefully lose some weight gradually. I'm not one for crazy fasts as it just comes back on again; doing it slow and steady means I should be able to maintain it. 

My new years resolutions are to lose weight and save money. What are yours? 

Happy New Year. 

May it be filled with love, laughter and lots of new stuff.

Fabienne x