Happy weekend everyone! Oh boy, the last two weeks really kicked my butt. I had a massive site attack last week and had to delete my entire blog (thankfully I’d previously set up automatic security scans and site backups so that I could re-build everything again), had a series of work frustrations, and worst of all, found out that Coco is still not better despite five months of antibiotics – now her only option is to try an experimental treatment that has only been performed on two cats in the world – so that was sort of heartbreaking when we had been hoping for some good news. But at least she has the best vet minds in the world looking after her here in Cambridge, and we’re hopeful that this will work.
I’m an eternal optimist so I’m trying to focus on everything I can be grateful for right now; most notably the fact I’m off to Paris today for a long weekend with my friend Anne. Because we can’t always control what life throws at us, but we can choose how happy we are (and if that fails, there’s always Paris…)
Here’s what I’m loving right now:
1. Make an afternoon tea date // One of my favourite friend dates is to get all dressed up and meet a friend for tea and cake somewhere fancy; it’s cheaper than going for dinner but feels so much more special. I can’t wait to visit all my favourite dessert spots in Paris this weekend!
2. Invest in a go-with-anything jacket // This weather just cannot seem to make up it’s mind, so I’ve been reaching for my favourite spring jackets daily. I finally gave in and ordered this perfect Chanel-style boucle jacket after it had been on my wishlist since March (I have the same style from a few years ago that I still love and wear all the time, but I couldn’t resist the rainbow palette of this one), and it looks so cute teamed with both jeans and dresses for this in-between weather. P.S. This is a great budget-friendly alternative too!
3. Buy some new baubles // New jewellery is my favourite easy way to update my wardrobe. BaubleBar is one of my favourite sites for inexpensive but great quality pieces, and they have so many new things. I especially love these pearl hoops, these flower studs, these heart earrings, this cute leather bow clip, and this fun statement headband.
4. Make your wardrobe more sustainable // Reducing my environmental impact and shopping more responsibly is something I’ve been thinking a lot about lately, and one way I’ve been doing that is trying to ensure I only buy clothes made from recycled or natural textiles such as linen or organic cotton wherever possible. This post by Jess was a sobering reminder to be more conscious about the fabrics and pieces we buy – and what to choose instead.
5. Master weekend chic // I had to wean myself off Breton stripes for a while (my collection was becoming problematic), but I couldn’t resist this ruffle-sleeved t-shirt dress. I love it teamed with white trainers and a basket bag for relaxed weekends and off-duty days. P.S. it runs a little large, so size down if you’re between sizes.
6. Upgrade your storage // My love for straw bags appears to have extended to my home. I recently ordered a few of these baskets to use as storage, and I love how they make even the ugliest storage problems look effortlessly chic and pulled-together.
7. Do something lovely for someone else // Make a point of doing something nice for someone ‘just because’. Smile at strangers you pass (I truly believe a big smile can change your day), tell your favourite author or blogger how much you enjoy something they wrote (speaking from experience – heartfelt comments from a reader mean so much), offer to help a friend with something or show genuine appreciation for someone who has helped you, send a friend or family member a card to say how much they mean to you, and donate or volunteer for a cause that means something to you.
In case you missed it:
May Beauty favourites (all the best products I’m using + loving right now)
How to Switch-up Your Style for Spring (7 easy ways to master transitional dressing)
15 Ways to Celebrate Spring (your field guide to the best spring ever)
5 Favourite Spring Perfumes (my all time favourites and new additions to make you smell like prettier than a meadow)
10 Things I Always do on Weekends (how to set yourself up for success for the week ahead)
However you’re spending it, I hope you all have a lovely weekend!
Love, Briony xx
I always enjoy reading your posts and inevitably end up buying something that you suggest! Hope that coco gets better soon. Mx
Oh you are so lovely, thank you so much!
Briony xx
An afternoon tea date is something I always look forward to. It’s so nice to treat yourself to something out-of-the-ordinary and special from time to time.
And that jacket is SO you!
Have a wonderful week,
x Brenda | Sundays and Somedays
I completely agree! And thank you so much!
Briony xx