cold days & cold nights...

We may not have snow but it is certainly nippy out there! This morning while filling up the car with petrol my hands nearly cracked under the pressure. The sheer coldness. They actually hurt for awhile after... I find when there is no frost or snow you are lulled into a false sense of security that you won't need to cover up completely. Don't fall for the trap like my poor hands did this morning!

I find it is a struggle at times to dress well and dress warm. Layering isn't the best look for me (not good to add bulk to these bosoms) and I don't want to sacrifice either warmth or style. This is merely one of my many attempts. Vests under a lace top, long maxi skirt (like a blanket that you wear) and socks over tights with ankle boots. And then of course the chunkiest coat and scarf I could get my hands on! I do love this coat. Got it back in spring at the Shutterbug Kilo Sale and it is simply the bees knees! It's a lovely casual fit, has beautiful simple details, in great condition and 100% wool. Not too shabby for €30.

How are you guys keeping toasty this winter? Layers? Thermal long johns? Hot whiskeys? Do tell..

Top/Boots: Dunnes

Skirt: Warehouse

Necklace/Coat: Shutterbug

Scarf: River Island

Watch: Citizen

golden time...

My graduation is coming up soon and my parents wanted to get me something to celebrate the importance of the occasion (so sweet!). They knew I really wanted a new watch for some time now so last week my mama brought me down to our local jewellers and told me to pick out a watch of my choice (which was harder than expected). At first I had NO IDEA what she was up to and then I slowly copped on... 

The watch I chose was a Citizen, just like my papa apparently! She is a beauty ain't she?!? Gold tone with a mother of pearl face and Swarovski crystals around the edge... It's got a big face (which I love) and it has one of those easy closed bracelet style straps so I don't end up spending hours trying to put it on (more of a common occurrence than I'd like to admit). It's so beautiful that I am really petrified I am going to damage it but my boyfriend pointed out that watches are designed to take a few hard knocks so I am too relax. He's such a smart chap! 

Oh and they inscribed it 'Love Mum & Dad' which I think is simply beautiful. You'll be seeing this baby on me A LOT!