Lately I've been loving our slow shift into the autumn season, and it's had me thinking about all of the pieces in my wardrobe, and what kind of things are missing in order to create the perfect transitional looks.

For me, A/W is all about layering; it's about big chunky knits and long coats, but also midi skirts and little woolen berets for the slighter warmer days too.

I love how through September - February we're able to experiment with style so much more, adding in different tones and textures, and re-working pieces from summer's past, into looks that work equally as well for chilly temperatures.

Recently, I was sent a few pieces by Nasty Gal, one of which was this gorgeous black tee dress, that has had me obsessed with planning how to style it ever since it arrived. It was just the kind of thing I had felt had been missing from my collection and it's sparked so many ideas that have me super excited to move into the next couple of months.








It's a piece that's perfect for the British Summer, you know?...not too 'little' that you're too cold, but not too 'much' that it's going to make you too warm? Yet it's also something I'd definitely want to work into my A/W wardrobe too. I guess it's just the perfect balance of everything (plus it's super comfortable and easy to throw on, what a dream!!)

This dress has had me thinking of all the different ways that simple pieces like this can be worked and styled, and it's got my brain spinning into an outfit planning frenzy.

I mean, it's nothing new to say that basic pieces are the easiest to be worn all year round, but it's a piece like this that just works so well for layering and adding textures to.

This Nasty Gal dress is a very wearable Polyester, which I know isn't everyone's favourite, but go with me here. It's an affordable price (only £15 right now... bargain!!) and can be worn loose and flowy, or be pinched in at the waist using the little material belt it comes with, or any belt for that matter. It looks chic and effortless, and you really can't go wrong with a LBD, right? It's just an easy-going, comfortable piece, with a very simple composition, which is perfect for adding to and dressing up or down.







I can picture this looking super elegant and sophisticated styled with a long navy duster coat and some heeled black boots, or if you prefer a more 'edgy' look, Dr. Martens would look amazing too. I can also see this working nicely with a chunky knit thrown over the top, and the little roll neck from the dress peeking through. The long length of the dress makes for a casual yet, put-together vibe and a beret would also be the perfect thing to channel some Parisian-chic into a look with this dress!

The beauty of it is, that this dress is just great on it's own too. As I stood shooting this, channeling my inner J-Lo and Angelina Jolie, I found I was getting so many glances (could have been because I was stood Vogue-ing in front of a library, but I'm going to put it down to the dress) and it made my very happy to know that a simple black dress is still as powerful as it always has been.

All in all, I just think tee dresses are the perfect staple for the weather we're having right now. Whether it's 21 degrees one day, or 13 the next, it's the kind of piece that's going to be easy to throw on and work around.

If you want to grab yourself a staple tee dress too, simply have a browse below:

For some reason, as of late, I seem to have reverted back to a place where I channel an incessant need to be liked. Well, maybe 'liked' is the wrong word, but at least the need to not upset or irritate people.

I've always thought of myself as quite an annoying person - the person in the group who never *quite* knows what to say, or never really *quite* understands what's going on. I get anxious in social situations, not even being able to answer a simple "what've you been up to?" without replying "not much" out of panic, even though I've spent my week busying around, or actually doing a lot more than 'not much'. I just don't want to bore people, or stumble on my words whilst telling a story. There seems to be nothing worse to me than rambling on to people who probably don't care about the emails I've had, or the fact that I've had my photo taken for a millionth time this week...

I mean, maybe this is just due to some heightened anxiety recently, but I've felt I've been overcompensating for a lot. I seem to constantly have this urge to hide a weakened side of myself, pasting over it with a giggly character, who probably actually ends up being more irritating than my normal personality. Well, don't get me wrong, I've always been a little bit goofy and say silly things, but there's currently this voice in the back of my head, which is always spurring me on to try and be funny, or pressuring me to not be left out of things.




I never used to be like that (well, not for a long time anyway). I'd reached a point where I really didn't mind if someone didn't like me. Not everyone's going to be your number 1 fan, right? I was happy floating along, being exactly who I was, not worrying over whether people thought I was weird, or didn't like my outfits, so this constant desire to not piss people off feels quite peculiar.

For me, the incessant need to be liked was something from my school days. I always wanted like 'popular' girls to like me, the boys to fancy me and the teachers to think I was succeeding. It was a personality trait that pushed my mental health into a spiral and left me clawing my way out of some weird dark hole I'd unintentionally pushed myself into.

From that I'd learnt it was trait I no longer needed, nor wanted. Something in my brain clicked and I realised the only person that I should be *that* concerned about, was myself. The fact that I'd spent about 9 years worrying myself over the opinions of other people felt ridiculous, and it was kind of a point in my life where (and not to be too symbolic here...) I set myself free.




Like I said, I've been anxious lately, so I'm kind of putting it down to that, but I've also made a lot of changes in my life this year and, because of that, have met a lot of new people. Maybe it's a case of me panicking over some fresh new slate that I have to paste my personality out onto again? Maybe I feel the need to 'recreate' myself somehow?

With starting a new job and leaving my agency, I guess I've opened myself back up to some thoughts and emotions that I'd closed off before. It feels strange to have regressed back to such a place, but it's not not plausible.

Whatever it is, it's completely draining, and it's not something I want to continue feeling.




All in all, I have been having an odd time of it lately. Lots of things in my life have lead to more anxiety, more struggles with food and more worries over my appearance, so maybe it's just a case of rewiring my brain again to get back to that more 'care free' place.

No one wants to go through life fretting over what other people think - nobody has time for that. And, I certainly don't want to default back into the way I felt during high school (dear god, NO).

I think even just writing this out has given me some perspective, so hopefully I can feel back to my unworried self soon enough.

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Until this year, I honestly don't think I had ever really listened to a podcast before (I know, where have I been, right?) but then in came these amazing series, which I just could not resist putting on every time I had some admin or errands to do - they became my first port-of-call when it came to listening to something, even before clicking on my latest Spotify playlist.

I know of some amazing women in this community of creatives, and with a couple of them starting podcasts, and discussing topics which have really helped me feel less alone, or even opened my mind up to new things, I couldn't resist giving them a mention here on my blog.

So, let's see what's been taking up all my spare time, shall we? 



Things You Can't Ask Yer Mum

This podcast by Lindsey Holland and Lizzy Hadfield was the first I ever listened to, and, oh boy, was I hooked instantly.

In this series, these two talented ladies discuss, as you may have guessed from the title, all the things you may not normally ask your mum. This ranges from sex, to grief, to relationships (including friendships) and tackles topics in such a fun, yet analytic and understanding way, and really takes you from one emotion to another.

The first episode had me holding in my laughter on public transport, then there are moments in other episodes which have made me shed tears, and had me listening intently as I've learnt from their experiences and stories.

It's the icing on the cake that these two are the perfect pair for something like this. It's like you're out for lunch with your two best mates, having a good ol' chinwag, and there's something oddly comforting about listening to them chat away (it might be the Northerner in me, who knows? haha)

As someone who's always adored both Lindsey's and Lizzy's work from a blogger perspective, it's so wonderful to have this podcast that let's you get to know the two of them more on a deeper level, rather than just looking at their style and wishing I was as effortlessly cool as them both (seriously, have you seen these girls?!)

It's a truly wonderful podcast, and I can't wait for the second series of episodes to come out so I have something to giggle at on my morning commute again!

Listen HERE

On The Outskirts

Moving onto two other amazing ladies, who honestly are some of the most lovely and down to earth ladies I ever had the pleasure of meeting, it's Alice Catherine's and Sophia Rosemary's podcast, 'On The Outskirts'.

In this series Alice and Sophia discuss all things social media, body image, praising women, as well as chatting away about their current favourite tv series, festivals and, a good ol' British favourite, the weather!

I often find myself listening to their episodes as I potter round my house, tidying my room, making lists, and I always end up giggling away, and once again, just feeling like I'm having a lovely natter with my pals.

I really love the way these two discuss blogger culture, and the world of social media, as it's something I too am dealing with, as we roll with the punches of the ever changing algorithms and Instagram culture.

These girls have the ability to voice so much of what's going round in my own mind, whilst also opening my mind to new things and new perspectives, and I think that's really wonderful.

If you're a fan of inclusive, honest chats, and are also a blogger living outside of the London bubble, then this one is for you.

Listen HERE


Listen Louder

Last but not least, we have a podcast for all those interested in discussions about Mental Health. Megan (Wonderful You) has been one of my favourite bloggers for a really long time. I adore her honesty in everything she creates, and the way in which she tackles tough subjects in such a caring and compassionate way.

This podcast features real conversations, with weekly guests, aiming to break down the stigma around mental health and help others feel less alone with what they're dealing with... and that's truly the beauty of this podcast.

As someone who has struggled with their own mental health, podcasts/blog posts/poems - anything of that ilk - are something that have really helped me to feel more connected with others and make me realise that I'm not so solus in what I am dealing with. In particular, the way that these discussion touch upon different variations of anxiety, depression and body image, have made me feel so comforted.

Megan, as well as being an amazing content creator in general, is the perfect host for this kind of thing. She's kind, caring, willing to open up and help others open up - she's the perfect voice to lead an audience into a better understanding of our minds.

This podcast truly is the safe space everyone needs and I can't wait to listen to more of the episodes and delve deeper into the understanding of both mine and other people's emotions.

Listen HERE

I thought I'd bring in the bank holiday by chatting to you all about this look I wore yesterday, as the heat wave was upon us and I had not packed correctly for the weather when travelling to Josh's for the weekend...doh!

This was a very last minute outfit that I actually ended up loving A LOT. There's something about summer dressing that I've found difficult this year - I keep feeling as if my style isn't made for the warmer days and always end up opting for the safe option of a dress and sandals, but I don't want the weather to stop me from getting creative with my style, you know?




I had chucked this white shirt in my bag after picking it up from a charity shop for just £3(!!) and had planned to maybe wear it to work on Monday, but waking up on Saturday morning, I knew I had to throw something together that wasn't going to make me melt into a puddle wearing it. Luckily I had left these fabulous Ghospell shorts behind at Josh's house recently too, so with my white shirt in hand, and shorts at the ready, I knew this was going to be a fail safe option. (I mean, I can't go wrong with light weight materials and shorts when it's 30 degrees outside, right?)






I paired the two with my trusty Miss Selfridge trainers, which I had recently dug out of the abyss of shoes in my wardrobe and they've now become my day-to-day shoe, as well as my favourite polka-dot ASOS belt, which I actually flipped backwards to create this cool monochromatic belt situation (how had I not done that before? I think it looks so cool!).

I thought tying up the shirt with this gorgeous B.tempt'd Lace Kiss Bralette underneath was a really nice touch, and kind of gave me 'hot girl summer' vibes (a proper confidence boost outfit too!)






Last but not least, I have to give my new Paul's Boutique bag a mention. This is the GiGi Shoulder Bag in Green and I'm absolutely obsessed with it.

It's the perfect shopper/tote bag, with so much room inside for me to carry all of junk round with me. I love the croc material and the gold metal details (goes so well with my Cluse Watch and other gold gems!) - it's got a luxurious feel to it which I really like - and it's just the kind of bag I've been after for so so long. PLUS, I'm obsessed with the colour green right now, so this is a bag dream come true!


I just loved wearing this outfit, and I couldn't not share it, so... voila! ♥

Hello you guys, and welcome to the first installment of my new series 'Holly's Headspace'. In these posts, I'm looking at taking your mental health related questions, thoughts and stories (anonymously, of course) and opening them up into a wider discussion here on my blog. You all know I'm incredibly passionate about discussing these kind of topics - we shouldn't feel the need to hide from opening up about the things we're all dealing with - so I thought this would be a great way of me tackling different subjects, without waffling on about 'me, me, me' the entire time. Obviously (disclaimer, incoming), I'm not a mental health professional in anyway, or qualified to give 100% correct advice, but I like to talk from real life experience and a first-hand perspective. Now, without further ado, let's get onto the first question, shall we?



This question really struck a chord with me, as I've not been feeling too dissimilar lately. The thing with bad mental health is that, we often develop this feeling that we're burdening people - the feeling that no one wants to hear about our problems, that no one will take the time to listen, that no one will understand - and it becomes cemented within us, stopping us from allowing ourselves to open up. There's always that voice inside ourselves that screams 'tell someone how you feel!', but it's like there's a blockage on the way from our brains to our mouths - the idea to speak is there, but the words can't make their way out. I completely empathise with that feeling.

It's not uncommon to feel like this - in fact I would definitely say that every single person I've ever known, who is suffering with their mental health, goes through the exact same thing. Our minds become routined in hiding things away; we become closed off and secretive, and that becomes our 'norm'; so when that little cry for help deep down inside us tries to emerge, we're left with the idea that everything should be suppressed - nothing should be talked about.

However, the thing I've grown to learn is that, that blockage between what we truly want to say and what our minds want us to keep hidden, can be broken down. The first step is finding a situation in which you feel most comfortable about discussing things, or finding a person you trust.

For example, one of my first port-of-calls are my friends - the same might go for you. Find a friend who you feel comfortable with, invite them round for a cuppa or whatever is least-complicated for you to do (I find it's often more comfortable to discuss things in a situation you feel familiar with, or in a space that feels safe) and let them know, in the easiest words you can, how you're feeling or that you might need help.

Easier said than done, of course.

I think that can be the thing sometimes - how are we supposed to explain what's going on in our head's when we barely even understand it ourselves? - we know we want to open up (and I believe that if you're thinking about telling someone what's going on, that's a really good sign in the right direction), but mustering the words can be the hardest part. Mental health is complicated, and generally putting things into words can be really tricky. But, do you know what? Even if everything feels like it's coming out like nonsense, the person listening can still take something away from it. Jumbled words are better than no words, and no one should have to go on struggling by themselves in silence.

Or, if it helps, write things down. I find that sometimes putting your thoughts down on paper can help them feel easier to discuss and to break down - even a simple text can feel more fitting sometimes. Whatever feels most safe and easiest for you to do.

Commonly, as people suffering with things like this, we keep things locked deep down inside, leaving ourselves in turmoil on a day-to-day basis, but having someone around you who can learn to understand and try to help you is honestly so important. And, despite what our minds want to tell us, people just want the best for us. People want us to be okay. I've never had a single person act as if they've been burdened by my opening up to them - there's always support there, and the will to try and understand. Our minds want to make us feel like it's a burden because illnesses habitually like to keep you trapped, but talking about things is the only way we can set ourselves free from that.

If it were the over way round, and it was your friend who was opening up, how would you react? I'm sure you would be telling them the same thing I'm telling you now - let it out, and don't deal with it alone. Sometimes it's good to try and step out and look from an outside perspective, remembering you should treat yourself no differently to how you would treat others.

Anyway, no matter what your mind is telling you, find a way that works for you to get the thoughts out. Let people be there for you - relationships are such a strong power in getting through situations like this.

My collection of golden gems is enough to accessorize an army, but there will always be more pieces that I'll have my eye on and just can't help but gravitate towards.

Back in May, I got to head down for a lovely lunch with Calvin Klein, where I got to check out some of their latest jewellery pieces (as well as enjoy some yummy food, of course). I clearly remember there being a collection of new styles lay out beautifully on display and my body instantly floating over to them, as if I was being magnitized by the sight of more. gold. jewellery. (seriously, I'm obsessed).

These were the 'Clink' and 'Bubbly' collections. There was something about them just so 'me', I just couldn't resist adding them to my 'must one day purchase' list.

The PR's over at Swatch UK kindly loaned me some pieces from these collections to get creative with, so I thought why not talk them through with you guys!






First up we have the 'Clink' collection. These are pieces featuring a ring motif, in a champagne gold stainless steel. I love the design of these - there's something so minimal yet quirky about them - and they're such easy to wear pieces.

The 'Clink' necklace is great. It features an adjustable chain, allowing you to wear the piece longer or shorter, depending on your preference. It's a wonderful costume piece, but also great for day-to-day if you want to add a bit of a statement to your look.

Same goes for the bracelet. This is such a lovely little accessory - something that would work great for a night out with the girls, but also something just to spruce up your work outfit a bit. I'm not usually one for chunky bangles, but this one is one that I could definitely get on board with, especially since it doesn't feel remotely heavy at all. It's not the kind of thing that would be weighing down your wrist all day!

I have to say though, the earrings are my favourite. You all know I'm a sucker for a good earring, and these definitely don't disappoint. Again, they're so great for every day wear - they're one of the pieces in this collection that I can see myself wearing constantly. I love the way they hang on the ear so delicately, yet are super unique and eye catching too. The colour of them is gorgeous and they work wonderfully with my new 'do. What's not to love?








Then we have the 'Bubbly' collection, to which here I am referring to the rings I'm wearing. These feature white pearl bubbles with stainless steel bands. I have a HUGE thing for pearls - I find them so classic and timeless - so these rings are a dream to me!

The 'Bubbly' Ring Set comes with 2 rings, one with a pearl bubble and the other with a gold bubble. I love the fact the you're getting 2 rings here - so often I find rings that I love but can't afford to just splurge on 1 - this gives us a reason to tell our poor bank accounts that we're allowed to splurge on 2, right?!

The design of them is simple and chic - very Calvin Klein - and they're the kind of thing that I would be grabbing for each day to complete my looks.

I'm also wearing the CK 'Bubbly' Ring, which features a pearl bubble and a kind of 'cuff link' style aspect. I like this ring simply for it's more modern twist. It's got the classic pearl yet this open gap between that and the other side of the design - it's definitely got more of an androgynous feel to it and can create a more 'bold' look than the ring set, if you're more inclined to statement pieces.



So, that's it! Those are the pieces - I'm still completely in awe of how gorgeous they all are!

Did anything catch your eye? What do you think of the collections? Let me know down in comments below!

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