Win A Pair of Funky Wolky Shoes From Their Blazer Collection

Now summer is almost here I have to put my trusty Uggs away and wear something a little more, well, summery.

Not being able to do the school run on foot wearing heels, I need something durable, comfortable and anything but dull.

Luckily Wolky Shoes meet the bill.  A new brand to me, they specialise in the kind of funky footwear that you can't fail to notice.

Wolkyshop has been making shoes since the early 80's and are designed by a Dutch designer, Charles Bergmans. Their shoes are sold through the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, France and the United Kingdom, where we have our first shop in Brighton.

Wolkyshop sent me a pair of their Dusky boots from their new BLAZER collection to try.

Dusky comes in a 5 colourways (mine are grey printed suede) from size 35 to 42. The boot has a thick sole which is extremely comfortable and is fully leather lined and adjusted with laces.  The wedge heel gives you a little extra height whilst still being comfortable to walk on.

The reason these boots are so comfy is because they have, like all Wolky shoes, an anatomically formed footbed.

I found my Dusky boots incredibly comfortable and the size 42 (UK size 8) generous. Wolkyshop do not do half sizes and when I asked whether I could try the smaller size, Sam in the Brighton shop sent me out a size 41 to compare the same day - together with a free returns label to send the ones I didn't want back.  How's that for service!

As it was, the bigger size was the best for me.  I wish I had smaller feet!  And, should you have the problem of odd sized feet with two different sizes, Wolkyshop have their Odd Sized Shoe Programme.

Rather than having to buy 2 pairs of the same shoe style, for an extra £22.99 Wolkyshop will custom make you  a pair of shoes from the same piece of leather.  This only applies to certain styles so you have to check the website to see which ones are available.

The Giveaway

I can see my Wolky Shoes becoming a permanent part of my comfy shoe wardrobe, along with my Uggs and FitFlops.

You can find out more at www.wolkyshop.co.uk.

I have one pair of Wolky Shoes from the Blazer collection to give away to one lucky winner.  The Blazer collection has five styles - four sandals and one boot - to choose from.

Entry is via the Rafflecopter widget and the giveway ends at 11:59 pm on Saturday 24th June.  UK entrants only and the usual terms and conditions apply which can be viewed on my competitions page.

Please make sure you complete ALL the mandatory entries, including following Wolkyshop on Facebook and Twitter.



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

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Strike A Balance Between Comfy And Cool With Your Look

Getting fashion right isn't always easy, and we tend to go through different stages of it throughout our lives. When we are young, free and single, most of us prioritize looking good above all else - even if that means constantly having to straighten out a shirt that's ruched up under your pencil skirt, or wearing a dress so tight, you aren't quite sure whether you will ever breathe again normally.

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As we get older and work and family life takes over, a lot of people tend to head to another end of the spectrum entirely - the land of comfort. This means that gone are the days of lace blouses and tight denim - now it's all about sweatpants and plain jumpers (the baggier, the better). But this transformation into the typical mum uniform can be pretty disheartening for many mothers.

After all, since when did having children mean that you can no longer dress in a way that allows you to express yourself?

Fashion is an art form, and when we lose our fashion mojo, it can sometimes feel as though we've lost a lot of our creativity along with it. But is there actually a way to be a style icon while being a busy mother, AND holding down a full-time job? You'll be pleased to know that there IS a way to achieve this - but you'll need to get savvy.

In order to create a workable look for yourself, you'll need to be prepared to fit the fashion around your lifestyle, not the other way around.

The key to doing this is to find workable pieces of clothing that are comfortable, but that also speak to you on an aesthetic level.

This way, you can strike a perfect balance between being comfortable and able to run around after your kids, but also looking pretty fabulous while you do so. Check out my guide below.

Rock some flats

Have you grown up in an era where the 'feminine' thing to do was to wear heels 24/7? Sure, heels can make a woman's outfit look that little bit more girly and glam, and there are some occasions where a pair of heels are very much warranted - a fancy dinner, or a work party, for example.

But wearing them all the time (even mid-heeled boots) can end up causing long-lasting damage to your feet.

Blisters, bunions and ingrown toenails are the least of your worries when it comes to wearing heels - nerve damage, spider veins and even back problems can all be caused or worsened by the long-term wearing of high heels.

In order to preserve your feet for years to come and to make rushing around throughout the day just that little bit easier, make a point of investing in some stylish flats.

Many women think that a flat shoe cannot be stylish, but this is where they are wrong!

There are so many different designs available. For example, you might go for a preppy loafer or boating shoe, or maybe a daintily embellished ballet flat.

Alternatively, a good pair of trainers are something every woman should have in her wardrobe - trainers aren't just for teenagers, you know! Opt for a classic brand such as Converse or Vans for a timeless look - shoes like this can add a fun, youthful edge to just about any outfit.

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Loose trousers

If there is one item of clothing that restricts our daily movement more than any other, it is the tight trouser. We are all aware of the fashion for skinny jeans - sometimes jeans that are so skinny they almost look as though they were sprayed on!

As fabulous as they can look, however, they are not the most practical things to wear on a daily basis.

Of course, you may try to run your various errands in them - going to work, doing housework, ferrying the kids to and from their various after-school clubs. But all it takes is one awkward squat as you reach down to pick up a discarded toy off the floor, and that's when you hear it: the dreaded rip.

No one wants to be accused of public indecency swanning around in a pair of torn jeans - so this is just one definitive reason why you may want to consider switching to boyfriend jeans.

Boyfriend jeans (just like the boyfriend shirt or jacket) are designed in such a way to make them look as though you borrowed them from your boyfriend. In this respect, they are usually made with a wide yet straight leg, have deeper pockets (very useful) and need to be tied up around the waist.

They allow for much more movement simply because they are looser, but that doesn't mean you need to compromise on style.

Wear your boyfriend jeans with a tucked-in stripy t-shirt for a casual cool, or you can even pair with a lacy crop top for a night out.

Other types of loose trousers are also great for everyday wear if denim isn't really your thing. Palazzo pants have recently come back into fashion as the seventies trend resurfaces, or how about a good pair of harem pants - perfect for both lounging in and going about your daily business.

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Casual cool

Over the past year, we have seen a couple of interesting new trends emerging in high fashion. One is the sports luxe look - the other is the trend for pyjama suits.

Huge fashion brands such as Fendi have been branching out into clothing that takes inspiration from sportswear - but that has been twisted so that it is acceptable to wear on just a regular day.

The benefit of all this? You are on trend and my, you are comfortable too!

An easy way to get this look is to don a pair of luxe joggers (if Fendi is a little out of your budget, there are plenty of great high street imitations too) and pair with a simple, chic t-shirt or jumper.

As far as the pyjama look goes, things are a little more complex. You have to get it completely right. Otherwise, it can just look as though you simply haven't bothered to get dressed that day.

The first step is to look for something tailored - this is what will make your 'pyjama set' look more like actual clothes, rather than sleepwear. Then, pay attention to the material you choose. Avoid cotton at all costs - instead opt for something like a suit material, or maybe satin if you are feeling particularly luxurious.

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Throws and ponchos

We may be on our way into spring now, but that doesn't mean we don't still have the occasional bitterly cold day.

When the temperature drops and it's rainy and cold, most of us want nothing more than to hide out in a cozy blanket at home, away from the prying eyes of the world. But, as is life, we usually need to leave the house to get on with our days.

Thankfully, there is a way you can stay cool and comfy and warm all at once - and it is with the help of blankets and ponchos.

We really saw blankets come into their own in the autumn/winter season of last year, so if you've still got one, don't be afraid to rock it!

Simply wrap up in it whichever way feels most natural to you - if you want to make the look a little more streamlined, simply cinch yourself in at the waist with a stylish belt. As long as your arms are still free, there really isn't a more comfortable piece of clothing to snuggle up in on a cold and frosty morning.

Fashion and comfort don't have to be mutually exclusive - there are plenty of ways you can feel good and look good every single day.

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Red Hot For New Year's Eve

Red is the colour to wear this festive season and it makes a refreshing change from being one in a sea of little black dresses. Best of all, lots of these are reduced in the sales.

Red Hot For New Year's Eve by lindahobbis featuring a fit and flare dress

Alexander McQueen off shoulder dress
net-a-porter.com

Pencil dress
karenmillen.com

Fenn Wright Manson petite maxi dress
johnlewis.com

Fit and flare dress
coast-stores.com

River Island red bodycon dress
£57 - riverisland.com

Red prom dress
£53 - amazon.com

Yves Saint Laurent red cape
tessabit.com

Fendi red jacket
£3,155 - marissacollections.com

Red jacket
£630 - laperla.com

MAGISCULPT MESH INSERT DRESS | Simply Be
simplybe.co.uk

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Let's Get Cosy

Let's Get Cosy by lindahobbis featuring UGG

Sweater
bagheeraboutique.com

Frye over-knee boots
£420 - shopbop.com

UGG boots
£295 - luisaviaroma.com

Radley handbags tote
very.co.uk

Scarve
farfetch.com

Accessorize beanie cap
£26 - accessorize.com

PALE ASH NO. 12 PAINT
designersguild.com

Helen Moore Faux Fur Treacle Huff - Trouva
trouva.com

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Keeping Warm And Cozy With Style This Autumn

The summer is well and truly over. We have already had a few cold days, and can expect many more, so now is a good time to update your autumn wardrobe with some warm clothing.

Right now, there are some great deals available, so it is a good time to buy some of the more expensive items like boots and coats. If you can wait a week or so, you may be able to pick these items up in the Black Friday sales. Many retailers drop their prices by more than 50%, but just for one day.

Stylish long coats

This year, long coats are back in vogue. If you are looking for a smart coat for the commute, you will easily find what you are looking for. Most designers have opted for single-breasted cuts, which look particularly smart.

There are also some nice casual styles available. Pared down parkas and classically cut bomber jackets are available in most stores, as well as duffle coats with a modern twist.

Stylish boots

When it comes to footwear, low heels are still in fashion. There are high heels available, but they are mainly party shoes. Boots wise, full length is the way most designers have decided to go. Most are close fitting, and very chic, so they look great with the classically cut, long coats that are available, this year.

Jumpers

Given the changeableness of the weather, layers are the best option. Having a cardigan or jumper available to put on over the top of a long-sleeved blouse or t-shirt is always handy.

There are some nice looking women’s jumpers available online, and on the High Street. Baggier cuts seem to be all the rage, this year. But, if that is not your style, do not worry because there is also closer fitting knitwear available.

Lengthwise, the majority of the jumpers are mid calf, which means they are very flattering, as well as cosy. If you want something a little different, there are also some nice looking crocheted jumpers out there.

Nightwear

The fact that the weather is colder is not all bad. Getting everybody into their pyjamas early, snuggled up on the sofa with some snacks, and watching a movie together is a great way to while away the evening.

When it comes to women’s pyjamas, there is no shortage of choice. Onesies are not as popular as they once were, but most designers have included at least one in their nightwear collection.

Loose fitting pyjamas that are made from natural breathable fabrics, like cotton, are everywhere you look. But, there are still some nice silky, lingerie style nightdresses, as well as shortie sets on sale.

Christmas presents

Clothing always makes great Christmas presents. If you have a friend, or family member, on a tight budget, buying them a pair of boots or a good coat is a great idea. The chances are they would not be able to afford to buy something like that new themselves. As a result, that type of present is especially welcome.

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Affordable Summer Style From JD Williams

JD Williams is a brand I have come to know through its advertising campaign featuring Lorraine Kelly. Lorraine has become a fabulous ambassador for women in my age group (50+) and I love her positive energy and refusal to be pigeon holed as any kind of frump just because she's the other side of 50.

It's great these days to see a vanguard of sassy older women who are making the Fashion Industry sit up and take notice - I often cite Dame Helen Mirren as one of my favourites but there's also Julianne Moore, Susan Sarandon, Diane Keaton, Michelle Obama, Christie Brinkley and Jane Seymour - to name but a few.  In fact I can't remember a time when the sexiness of the over 50 woman was celebrated with so much fervour.

It's even better to see that brands are joining in this positive movement to celebrate those of us who are no longer ingenues but who are in many cases absolute power houses of energy, confidence and knowledge. We are also the ones with the most disposable income so we are certainly worth listening to!

JD Williams is certainly one of these brands and I was recently invited to try one of their maxi dresses (you know me, just can't resist a maxi dress).  I was keen to see if they lived up to their reputation as a brand that has risen from out of the ether to be a major online shopping destination.

I was sent the Waterfall Bead Neck Maxi dress - £50 in a cobalt blue (it also comes in cerise) to try and when I tried it on it reminded me of the good old days of Marks & Spencer when the quality was always there and could be relied on consistently.

The dress, a size 12, was a perfect fit and was lined.  The embellished collar contained beading that was securely sewn on (nothing worse than beading where one or two have come loose and spoil the entire effect) and the length of the dress was just right - skimming the ground without trailing on the floor.

This meant that it could be worn with flat shoes rather than having to find some vertiginous strappy sandals which, these days would mean the Husband having to escort me down the drive in case I take a tumble.

JD Williams has a wide variety of maxi dresses and there are a number of differing brands under its main brand umbrella spanning not only fashion (Simply Be, Joe Browns, Lorraine Kelly) but home & garden (Silentnight, Denby, Yankee Candle) and electricals (Vax, Panasonic, Samsung).

I particularly love this Palm Print Lace-Up Back Column Maxi (£35), available in sizes 10 - 32.

Palm Print Maxi

or how about this one - the Joanna Hope Print Jersey Maxi Dress - £55.

Joanne Hope Print Maxi Dress

I'd also like to try this one from Lorraine's own range - the Lorraine Kelly Floral Scuba Midi Dress - £50.

Lorraine Kelly Floral Scuba Midi Dress

JD Williams offer free next day delivery and a personal account where you can spread the cost of your purchases and at the moment there's 30% off over 200 dresses.  Definitely worth a look.

This is one instance where the advertising promises definitely deliver and I'm really looking forward to their AW16 collection.

*I was gifted the Waterfall Maxi Dress for the purposes of this review.

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Hot Summer Trends To Update Your Wardrobe At Debenhams

As the temperature continues to rise, we get closer to being able to wear all the amazing summer trends that were featured during Fashion Week. But with so many fabulous styles to choose from, you may find it difficult to narrow down which ones are must-haves.

Here's a list of the hottest summer trends that you need a part of your wardrobe.

1. Backless Dresses

Whether we're talking about a dramatic evening look or a flouncy day dress going back this will be one of the largest trends of the season. Pair this look with strappy sandals a statement clutch for a chic and flirty look.

2. Crop Tops

Lipsy Tribal Embellished Crop Top - £29.40

Whether you pair them with your favorite ripped jeans or a matching full-length maxi skirt, crop tops can add a touch of sexiness to any outfit.

3. Embellished or print shorts

4. Hexagonal or round sunglasses

5. Off-the-shoulder tops and dresses

Oasis Ruffle One Shoulder Dress - £48

6. Tote bags with statement prints

Whether you're looking to pack up your stuff for the beach or use it as a trendy Shopper tote bags with statement prints are an easy way to add some flair to your style.

7. Ruffle dresses

Whether the ruffle is used to embellish the hemline, sleeves or the top you can't go wrong with this fun and feminine summer trend.

8. Leather skirts

Nine By Savannah Miller Black Leather Skirt - £35

9. Slip dresses

Whether you wear them, it's a flouncy cocktail dress or pair them with a casual tee to create a laid back 90s looks adding a slip dress to your wardrobe is a great way to update your style this season.

10. Chunky Heel Sandals

Head Over Heels By Dune Chunky Brown Platform Sandal - £33

This trend looks great whether you pair it with a casual Jersey dress or a tailored work suit. The versatility of chunky heeled sandals makes them a must-have summer item.

11. Heirloom jewelry

12. Coral colored clothing

Jessica Wright Coral Aurora High Neck Plunge Bodycon Dress - £58.50

13. Keyhole lace dresses

14. Loose fit maxi dresses

Maxi dresses are forever on trend but by embracing a looser, more Bohemian look for summer, you'll be able to breathe new life into this old style.

15. Teal color clothing 

Little Mistress Teal Lace Bandeau Prom Dress - £51

Now that you know some of this summer’s hottest Trends be sure to update your style accordingly. And to pick up all of these styles and much more be sure visit the Groupon discount code page for Debenhams.

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Review: Lose Yourself At Octer.co.uk - An Online Shopping Mall You'll Want To Revisit

I was recently introduced to online retail site Octer.co.uk, a new website which not only allows you to search for your favourite items but let's you select your purchases by store as well as item type.

Octer is a start-up company developing mobile-first, e-commerce technology with the goal of making online shopping simple. As you might expect you can shop using Octer via your mobile or tablet too.

The best way to describe it is as an online shopping mall.

I was given the chance to try the Octer shopping experience by selecting a maxi dress.

You select the category - in this instance "Womens" and you can either search by the item category "Dresses & Skirts", shop by brand or shop by store.

If you select "Dresses & Skirts", you are given a further set of options to select from.  I chose "Maxi Dress" and was taken to a page with loads of fabulous dresses to choose from.

These options give you an incredible amount of choice!

Once you have selected a dress, you simply click straight through to the retailer..

Whilst looking for your maxi dress, Octer will suggest loads of similar styles you might like and allow you to check details such as price, size and availability by a one click link through to the relevant store.

Each item clicked on appears in a separate window and everything is under one 'virtual roof' so that you don't have to have keep going to and fro from other websites.

Technically this will speed up shopping.  In reality I found I could spend hours on Octer!  You don't just get one or two alternative suggestions, you get pages of them which you can sort according to low or high price too.

Not only does Octer offer fashion but it also offers beauty, technology, interiors, gifts and sports products.

So what did I choose?

My lovely Jarlo Yara Green Maxi From Asos.Com

I found this lovely green overlay maxi dress from Jarlo Yara Maxi Dress at ASOS.Com.

Octer is well worth exploring if you fancy a full shopping experience without the stress of a crowded shopping mall on Saturday.  And if you've every tried that with kids in tow, you know exactly how stressful that can be!

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Tips For Looking Stylish In All British Weathers

We all know that the British weather can be slightly unpredictable.  One minute it's lovely and warm and the next minute you're stuck in a downpour.  It makes staying stylish in summer a real challenge.

How do you balance the changing temperatures and the constant risk of rain whilst still looking chic rather than crumpled?

These tips may help.

1. Take a spare pair of shoes, ideally flats or wellies.  It's a good idea to keep these in the boot of your car so you always have them. You can change into your sparkly sandals when you get there to avoid turning up with soaked feet!

2. Wear waterproof mascara and take extra precautions with your makeup by using a waterproof foundation and a longer lasting lipstick. A primer will also help to keep your makeup in place.

3.  You can also protect your hair with an anti-frizz serum or a humidity proofing hairspray. Scarves are always handy to shield your hair from the sun or rain.

4. Have an emergency umbrella. It may not be used but it's better to have one just in case.

4. Always carry a pocket size pack of tissues. The cold or wind can make eyes and noses water.

5. Carry a wrap, cardigan or shrug. I have recently discovered that good quality Cashmere knitwear can be had at prices that won't break the bank.

6.  If you're off to do the school run and pushing a pram or pushchair, you might want to invest in a lightweight coat with a hood.

7. Wear lip balm to protect your lips from the drying effects of the sun and any cold and windy conditions! Don't forget to apply a good hand cream with an SPF either.

8. Wear several layers so you can put them on or take them off as the weather changes.

9.  But don't forget your sunscreen and a good pair of sunglasses that protect your eyes from the sun's glare.  Look for a pair that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays.

10.  If you are travelling on the underground or public transport a small portable fan may come in useful and it's always good to have a bottle of water if you have room to carry it.

If all else fails, make sure you've got the latest blockbuster novels loaded on your Kindle or phone so you can lose yourself in a great book and forget that you are more bedraggled than groomed!

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Stylish Cashmere & Wool Knitwear You Can Machine Wash?

I have always been a big fan of knitwear.  It's so versatile and so easy to dress up or down.  And it's perfect for our unpredictable British weather.

Buttoned Poncho & Shrug (pre-wash)

I was recently challenged to try Wool Overs cashmere and wool to prove that, not only does the company offer a super soft wool and cashmere blend but, better still, you can wash it.

From small beginnings in 1989, Wool Overs is now a world class knitwear retailer and supplies around 750,000 customers with men's and ladies classic and contemporary knitwear.

Having identified that today there is a greater need to use natural, renewable products, Wool Overs believe that wool is ideally suited to fulfil this need because it provides warm, stylish, and durable garments.

I have to admit, given my highly dubious laundry skills, that I was more than a little skeptical.

Wool Overs knitwear comes in a variety of styles but I tried the multi-way Buttoned Poncho & Shrug in a flannel grey.

Poncho worn as Cardi - pre-wash

Made from a blend of 30% Cashmere and 70% Merino Wool, it can be styled multiple ways and comes in 6 colours.

You can wear it as a cardi, a poncho, a shrug, a waistcoat, a bandana, a headscarf, a scarf and a cape.

8 ways to wear the same garment

I found my poncho to be super-soft and well made.

Now, to the laundry test.  You need to make sure that you follow Wool Overs' instructions to the letter.
You have to make sure that you wash your garment on a wool program, using a non-bio detergent at a maximum spin speed of 600 rpm.

Use a LOW temperature of 30 degrees maximum.

NEVER use biological detergents or stain removers on wool, silk or cashmere fibres because the enzymes will eat holes into your garments.

You can't use any old non-bio detergent either.

Wool and natural fibre detergents can be found at most supermarkets.  Look out for Woolmark-approved own brand products or brands such as Silk and Wool, Woolite, Stergene and Ecover Wool Wash.

I also washed my poncho in one of those net bags to prevent any extra damage from spinning.

I have to say that I was really impressed.  The garment came out of the wash in perfect condition and after a cool iron looks like new.

Poncho - after washing - no difference!

I can see that my poncho will become a new wardrobe staple and I plan to invest in a couple more pieces such as one of their cardigans or a Breton Strip Boat Neck Jumper made from 70% cotton and 30% silk.

Wool Overs can be found HERE or you can contact them on Facebook or Twitter.

*I received my poncho free in return for an honest review.

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