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I don't think I can express my love for the new Joules collection enough. There is navy, florals, double layering, tweed skirts, padded floral coats, cable knit jumpers and cute knitted animal jumpers! Wow, I am excited to start wearing some of this and to keep myself warm now that the colder days are slowly setting in. I have one jumper in my wardrobe that has survived the last few winters and that is pretty much it. A shopping trip is definitely needed soon. There is so much still to come from the Autumn and Winter ranges so I am looking forward to seeing what garments come through and how they could be layered. 

1 // Ok, I know I have a family dog but I have always wanted a little dog of my own since I was a kid and the little dog on this Intarsia Jumper in Fennel is one I could see myself having. So my theory to justify getting this jumper is "can't have the actual dog so why knot have the dog knitted on a jumper". You agree right? I love the colour too, I don't think I have ever worn or owned a garment in this colour before. With a simple pair of jeans and Converses you can easily be on your way to a conversational outfit perfect for the Autumn weather.

2 // This woven double effect layer top is something I think is so simple but adds a lot to a basic jeans and top outfit. With the deep navy colour and ditsy print that is stitched to the bottom it doesn't need much accessorising unless you want to add a small bracelet or necklace. This could be worn with jeans for a day time look or cigarette pants for a night time / dinner out look and, because of the shape, you would probably want to keep the bottom half tighter with simple footwear like the flats suggested.

3 // I do love a good old check shirt and this Cotton Oxford Shirt is not the usual style of a check shirt I would normally be drawn in to but think it is the perfect companion for layering with knitted jumpers on the colder days. Not only would it sit under the cute dog jumper with jeans and these Dark Brown Chelsea Boots, but would also go nicely with one of Joules' famous Wensley Scarfs to add a pop of colour and a print. This Navy V Neck Jumper or Button Through Cardigan in Caramel is another layering option that brings some more character to the shirt yet still looks effortless. 

4 // This Stripe Top in Navy is similar to the traditional Harbour I have just got but love how this one has the band of a different blue hue to break up the traditional navy and white stripes. It is has that effortless, almost French feel to it which can be layered with, again, a Wensley scarf like this one in Antique Gold Bloom one that I also got. These kind of tops are becoming a little thicker now (obviously) so it is ideal to partner a lighter fabric to mix fabrics, print and textures. 

5 // I've been hoping to get a simple knitted jumper this Autumn and when I saw this Dropped Shoulder Jumper in Soft Grey Marl I think I found a winner. I love on cold days to make my outfit cosy with jeans, boots, a scarf and an easy jumper like this one. To add colour I would again pair it with a Wensley scarf or I would add something knitted to make it all that more cosy and this Laurel Leaf Check Scarf would be my ideal match. Grey is such an easy colour to wear and goes with an array of bright colours to brighten up your outfit ... and your day.

6 // As I said before I love check shirts. I wish I had more of them! When I saw this Long Line Check Shirt in Soft Navy on the website I knew straight away I just have to get my hands on it. It is ideal to just through this on in the morning and accessorise with either some Chelsea boots for a smarter casual look or some Converses for a more laid back casual look. When it really does start to get colder you can layer with a jumper like this Painted Horse Marsha Intarsia Jumper to combine some fun and warmth.

Shop the NEW COLLECTION over on the Joules website. Which one is your favourite from the new collection?

- Speak soon, LJ X

Book Review // The Girl On The Train

I didn't have much time to read back in Nottingham but I decided (stupidly) to take on the challenge of reading the first Game of Thrones book because I loved the TV series so much. I thought I was ready to take on the first of seven books the size of Mount Everest, but clearly I wasn't and didn't even make it half way through the first book. I think after watching the show and then reading the books I knew what story lines to expect and reading it almost became a chore and I didn't look forward to sitting down at night with a book. I do hate giving up on books but reading should be fun and, for me, it is an escape to dive in to other stories and get hooked on characters lives.

So I decided to start reading The Girl On The Train by Paula Hawkins. I've had this book tucked away in my room since my Mum brought it for me for my birthday back in June and knew it would be a perfect companion for my commutes to work. I have wanted to read this book since it was released and have read and heard many good reviews surrounding the story and read only one bad review just before I picked it up, which I tried to block out so I could come to my own conclusion.

Rachel catches the same commuter train every morning. She knows it will wait at the same signal each time, overlooking a row of back gardens. She's even started to feel like she knows the people who live in one of the houses. 'Jess and Jason', she calls them. Their life - as she sees it - is perfect. If only Rachel could be that happy. And then she sees something shocking. It's only a minute until the train moves on, but it's enough. Now everything's changed. Now Rachel has a chance to become a part of the lives she's only watched from afar. Now they'll see; she's much more than just the girl on the train...

During the commutes to work I dived in to this book with such eagerness and really enjoyed reading the story as it developed and getting to know the characters. Hawkins has written the book with each female character having a chapter which allows you to connect with them and their side of the story because, what I found interesting, is she gave each character a slight slant in the way she wrote their way of communicating their side of the story to you. The book was written like a diary with each day being broken up in to morning and evening which ultimately made up the chapters. And when reading each characters story in my head I felt like I was drawn to Rachel, then "Jess", then Anna, then Tom and "Jason" and back again. Due to the characteristic style of writing each persons perspective of events resulted in me liking a character in one chapter and then disliking them in another. It was written in such a way that I had a true image of the characters looks and emotions and the scenes as I read them in my mind. I love it when a book comes alive in your head as it makes it that more enjoyable. With Rachel being the main character you spend more time reading her side of the story and I went through feeling a range of emotions towards her from feeling sympathetic, anger and annoyance. She got so involved in a life that was deeply embedded in her mind which led to her actions having complicated consequences.

I have tried not to read other peoples reviews on the Waterstones or Amazon websites since finishing the book so I could work out how I truly felt about the story as a whole and that ending! Firstly, I think it was gripping as the chapters would be ended with myself asking so many questions about that character or scenario that I needed answering and sometimes wouldn't be answered for at least another chapter or two. This kept it exciting and enjoyable but with a sense of mystery that kept me guessing what was coming next. Lies, secrets, fantasy and mystery are what themes defined this book in my opinion and, with such a combination, you want to join in on the game and try to become detective as you read each chapter.

Without giving away too much of the story and the ending, I was very surprised with how it was finished. It is hard to discuss it in a lot of detail incase some of you reading this haven't read it, but all really wasn't as it seemed and who I thought was "the one who did it" (you'll understand what that means if you read it) was not. I felt the ending could have been different somehow but I was still relatively happy, yet felt relationships with the characters were tied up quickly. However, I am not a writer and it may be the case that Hawkins did not want to drag anything out. Overall, I recommend reading this book if you like a bit of a mysterious character or story, a build up of plot twists and character written chapters.

Have you read the book? What did you think?

- Speak soon, LJ X

P.S. I did try and take my own image for the blog but still suck at using my DSLR and am too poorly to attempt taking another. Credit due to House of Hipsters for the image and I enjoyed your review of the book!

Six Things Sunday

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I've wanted to start a weekly feature on the blog since it started but have been waiting to see how the blog was going, what feedback I get and how truly dedicated I can be to keeping it running. I've again had some amazing feedback recently and some new followers which is great so thanks people, you do make working on this little blog so worth while. Due to the confidence boosting feedback, I am working on trying to get a new layout to make it look more professional and friendly so stick with me whilst I work on it. I am also planning more what days I will post on so I don't feel too overwhelmed with making sure I haven't posted or I have posted too much and am running out of things to talk about. I think like any other blogger you can get bogged down with worrying what others are writing about, how much they post and whether your blog should look or feel a certain way but this blog is a way for me to make sure I do more, keep it fun and enjoy talking about things I like or see.
So, Six Things Sunday has become (hopefully) my first weekly feature. Six things because thats my favourite number (and the more positive moments the better) and Sunday because it is the end of the week before a brand new one comes along.
I've been reading in to mindfulness and tips on how to stay positive recently and thought to myself hey, why not have an end of the week review on all things I have got up to, things I've liked, watched or listened to that have made my week and reflex on only the weeks good things. No matter how bad a day or week has been there is always something positive that can come from it no matter how little or big that thing is. Feel free to leave comments on the things you have done this week or if you've done anything the same as me. I do love a good chat about nonsense!

1. BEGINNING A NEW JOB
The time arrived this week to finally begin my new job which I can't wait to get my teeth stuck in to. As much as I am (kind of) loving having my training spread out over a few weeks so I can enjoy lie ins (I say that but actually still set my alarm for half 7 - 8 am even if I am not working) I am eager to get a routine going and start meeting new people. The days in between training are not only being used for freelance work, trying to exercise and socialise but also for days which I like to call my "admin days" where I plan blog posts, sort out emails, read blogs and file things away. I like to think I am important you see!

2. FINISHING A GOOD BOOK
Don't you just love that satisfaction when you finish a good book? I can't explain it but I basically just  want to tell anyone that will listen how I, like millions of others, has managed to finish a book. When it gets down to the last 100 pages I can't help but sit there until it is finished and reflex on the ending. I've just finished The Girl On The Train by Paula Hawkins so keep you eyes open for my book review coming soon. My next read will be The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton.
It is handy having a commute to work now so I can spend the time reading as I do love a good book. I've also been trying to make a point this week of spending 15 - 30 minutes before I go to sleep reading rather than being on my phone or laptop to help me relax. Some nights have been a fail because I've been busy blogging or wasting time on Pinterest researching, but the nights I read I manage to relax and sleep better than the nights I spend on social media. Does this work for you too?

3. FAMILY
It has been great to spend more time with my family, to get to see my grand parents (who are still as hilarious as ever) and spend time playing and walking with the family dog who, it seems, is my best buddy and won't leave me alone which is cute really because I cannot resist her puppy eyes when she wants to spend time with me. But, most excitedly, my little nephew has finally come home from hospital. I can't wait for squeezes with him and to play stupid toy games with my new little pal! I'm all up for being an Auntie until nappy change or feeds are needed and then I'm otherwise engaged!

4. FRIENDS
Firstly, I cannot stop having Friends on in the background when doing work. Thanks Comedy Central for putting on complete seasons for most of the day. Secondly, I have loved catching up with my friends back home recently which has meant combining a number of activities including enjoying roast dinners, wine, pudding, make up buying trips, eating breakfast out and exercise classes. I'm also making sure I email or texts friends for a catchup and make more meet up arrangements.

5. FREELANCING // DESIGNING
I took it open upon myself to approach the design company I freelance for with a new theme I wanted to design from and presented them with a mood board I created. I do love creating mood boards and could spend hours doing so, if you have ever visited my textile blog you'll probably see what I mean. I received some great feedback about my presentation and the theme itself so have got stuck in to designing. This will be the last collection I can do for them before the big trade show, Premiere Vision, kicks off in Paris later this month. Fingers crossed we get some success!

6. TICKING OFF WISHLISTS
Since starting the blog I have made quite a few wish lists/inspiration posts including my Fashion Autumn Wishlist, Homeware Inspiration and Office Inspiration. I wanted to create wish lists about things I truly needed or wanted to get when it came fashion and homeware to make myself look and feel better and jazz up my room a little. So far, so good!
From my Fashion Autumn Wishlist I have already purchased the Revlon Colourburst Matt Balm in Striking and the Essie Nail Polish in Bordeaux. I just need to work on getting the coat and converses. I haven't got anything as of yet from the Homeware Inspiration list, but this weekend finally managed to purchase a new desk after being inspired by the Office post and desperately needing a new desk. I purchased a simple Ikea one that offers me more space and the availably to have my Roberts radio, No.7 mirror, candles and many of my Paperchase notebooks around me rather than scattered in random piles everywhere. I will be glad to start working at my new desk which I will slowly add pieces to or change the layout over the coming months.

One final note is I keep getting people ask me how they can follow the blog and there are a few ways you can if you wish via Bloglovin', Facebook or on my Twitter which is @Lisa_Jayne92 where I also tweet about my posts from my textile blog.

- Speak soon, LJ X

Office Inspiration

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All I have floating in my mind right now is how much I want and desperately need a new desk and chair. After a look around the internet, especially Pinterest, for ideas and a trip to Ikea at the weekend I've finally come up with how I potentially want my little desk to look and to figure out prices. I have to say I am quite impressed by Ikea office stuff at the moment as the desks and chairs are good quality but very affordable for start ups. And for me personally I don't like to spend a lot of money on a desk but spend a bit more on adding accessories to make it a place I want to work at.

I like to think of my desk as my creative hub and it is where I tend to get things done away from having laptop time cocooned in bed with a cup of tea. I'm going to be quite busy with freelancing over the next couple of weeks so if I am not at work I will probably be sat at my desk working away on designs ready for the huge trade shows coming up alongside blogging. 

When I decorated my room a couple of years ago I got a very small desk because it was useful and manageable at the time, plus it fitted in to my budget. Now I need to upgrade and this is where Pinterest has come in handy for ideas. My desk can get messy very very quickly and currently feels very cluttered because there is no room for stationary boxes, pen pots, my Roberts radio or some flowers all in one place. 

I'm that type of person and designer to get excited by their desk and want to make it their own. When searching through Pinterest I came across these images and more that I can combined to create my own style. I love how all of them combined are simplistic and not too cluttered, especially the first one with images above the laptop, a space for stationary and a comfy chair. I'm trying to seek out a shappy chic chair that I could potentially up do and make my own floral cushion (2) so a trip to charity shops may be needed. Anyone that knows me knows I love flowers and having recently received flowers to put on my desk I need to keep on top of having some. They brighten up any space and are great for pictures (you have to think of your Instagram don't you!). I want to be able to stick inspiration on the wall with cute washi tape (4) or get a little pin board (5) where I can also post some of my Paperchase postcards (I have a big collection) or little bits of inspiration I see and need to print out for projects. I currently have a huge art box that really needs sorting out and so a pen pot is ideally needed for my desk. Anything with monograms on attract me and I think a little cup with an L on will sit perfectly on the desk like in image 5 and 6. Another idea I picked up on is to have current magazines I am reading stacked on the side with a candle on top next to my Roberts radio to add some character. A lot of the coloured themes I see on Pinterest are gold and/or black but I think I want to keep it very simple by adding colour using flowers, my radio and my pin board.

All I need now is to get to Ikea and purchase the desk .... and maybe some flowers on the way home!

What is your workspace like? Follow my Office/Studio board on Pinterest here!

- Speak soon, Lisa Jayne X

Fashion // The Pinafore Club

 1. Zara // £19.99

2. Topshop // £39

3. Urban Outfitters // £46

4. Topshop // £32

5. ASOS // £28

6. ASOS // £35

I want to join the Pinafore Club please! After doing some research for my textile blog I realised I am seeing pinafores everywhere at the moment and think I need to add one to my wardrobe soon but just need to work out if I want a denim or coloured corduroy one, although I think I would wear a denim one more and wear it in summer also. There so many ways you can were these as illustrated in fashion magazines and high street store websites such as Topshop, Zara and ASOS. From a stripy top, a patterned shirt or a simple plain white tee it is very easy to wear and looks casual but cool. From researching the internet and Pinterest it is also something that can be worn as a more formal piece with minimal effort and something with a high heel. I, however, would keep it casual with either a stripy top or a shirt with tights and my Doc Martins (I definitely like to think I am cool). I think it is best to invest in one that really catches your eye because these tend to work for summer also because you can wear them with a simple tee or oversized tank top (like in 3 and 4). I am sure as we get further in to Autumn and Winter there will be more variation in styles and colours about and layering them will become key to nailing the look. I feel like they don't need too much work to wear and can be a cosy and easy outfit for shopping day trips or a key piece for a fashion look book.

How would or do you wear yours?

- Speak soon, Lisa Jayne X

8 Signs of Summer

Summer for me is officially over now that the Bank Holiday weekend is upon us! I see sun but I don't feel warmth unless I'm under my duvet cocooned in with some laptop time. So, after being inspired by something I saw on my Pinterest, I thought why not look back at some things I got up to this summer and remember how great they were?

Summer started with a trip to London with my friends Chris and Matt for a day trip to see the Alexander McQueen:Savage Beauty exhibition at the V&A Museum. We booked these tickets about a year before we actually went to see it so it was very exciting to finally get the chance to see his work up close and personal. I've admired Alexander McQueen for years and have a couple of his books showcasing his work. I was devastated when I found out about his death (didn't speak to my family for quite a while) and so I felt a little emotional when I saw some of my favourite pieces during the exhibition. What an amazing creator he was? If you head on over to my textile blog you can read the full review.

Next up, my birthday where I turned the grand old age of 23! Saying goodbye to being 22 wasn't something I wanted to do as 22 felt like a good age, it was an age I seemed to like. I had a lovely birthday full of treats with my favourite being a trip to the Dr. Martins store where my boyfriend let me chose any pair I wanted for my birthday gift. I was in there quite a while and tried on so many pairs but, after years and years of wanting a pair, I had to walk away with a pair I loved. If I could wear mine everyday I think I would, I adore them and can't wait to add another pair to my collection. I also went to the White Rabbit Teahouse for lunch and Edin's for a birthday dinner before going to see San Andreas (good but cheesy) and limping home in my DM's because I had a blister. Which wasn't a great thing to have because I had the Derby Ramathon the next day. Yes, I did a 13.1 mile marathon and thought I was going to pass out on the side of the road. It was tough and I suffered the entire afternoon that day from dehydration but I would definitely do another one ... I think! But at least I can say the first thing I did at 23 was run a half marathon hey?

Pride in London was the next event I went to with Chris, Matt, Alex and Chris for a day of fabulous fun and over heating underneath the London sun. I have never been to Pride before but after experiencing the incredible atmosphere that it brings to London I would definitely go again. Everywhere you go people are happy and everyone is dancing and drinking to music. It seems to be the ideal place to meet people from all over the UK and possibly the world and chat about things you have in common. Seeing Soho packed with people enjoying themselves immediately cheers you up and makes you feel good about yourself. And I can honestly say I have never ever seen London so busy before. Constant foot path block I ensure you!

A trip up to Scotland has to be a part of my summers now! This trip and last summers trip to Skye have been altogether a real blast of fun, laughter, mountain walks and sight seeing. I love going up there and exploring the different country walks and experiencing Glasgow with a glass of fizz. We all got together for the Wimbledon final which featured lots of fizz, tea, sandwiches, strawberries and scones. It was a lot of fun and I think I spent most of the day pretending to know what on earth was going on in the match (as I do every game and every year). Plus, who doesn't love drinking tea out of vintage teacups and saucers?

Whilst in Scotland, me and my boyfriend attempted to do some camping. We only did one night in the woods close to his house but I think that was certainly enough because we forget sleeping bags which meant it was freezing! I had very little sleep and when it hit 5am it was time to be defeated by the cold and head back through fields and mud for some much needed sleep and food. I felt like I had been out partying all night and just got in I was that tired. But it was a great laugh trying to light the fire, cook sausages (that fell in the fire) and chat about nonsense before I became slightly freaked out by the dark. I really enjoy camping and generally don't mind getting muddy so this is something I need to do again.

Back in Nottingham I went for a morning gym session with Jess which was followed by this amazing breakfast at The Pudding Pantry. I think we maybe went overboard with food excitement, but we did work hard for it and the taste of the food made it all worth while. I wish I could have a breakfast like this every morning. The morning ended up with us dreaming of our own cafe and what we would call it. Oh how I wish that could be possible.

Yes, I know I keep banging on about it but that Lush event was most certainly a highlight of my summer. My first blogger event was such an exciting, happy and beautifully smelly one. I still haven't used any of my products but already have a list in my head of the ones I must by from the new collection. It will be dangerous working quite close to a Lush store. I hope to get the chance to get more involved with blogger events after having a taste of this one.

And lastly, after going on and on and on at the beginning of this year about how much I wanted a picnic in the park on a tartan blanket I finally managed to squeeze one in. We went to the local park (Arboretum Park) near the University on a cloudy day with our Greggs and popcorn (fine cuisine I know) and sat there cloud watching. Only downside is I totally forget the tartan blanket so I will just have to try again next year.

Summer 2015 ended up being better than I imagined. Of course, I would love to have got a city break in there somewhere but thats a goal for next summer I hope. I am slightly looking forward to the Autumn/Winter nights but will miss the sunshine because I am one of those people that feels happy when the sun is shining ... I just don't like overheating!
One thing that isn't featured in the photographs  but is a huge and happy part of my summer is the arrival of my little nephew, William. I wanted to add this one but the photo I had wasn't a great one so thought best to just give him a mention. He has been a little poorly so myself and the rest of the family cannot wait for his return home so we can all play with him and spend time with him. I will certainly enjoy being this little guys friend!

What was your favourite moments of this summer?

- Speak soon, Lisa Jayne X

Let's Just Have A Chat

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Ok, if I am completely honest I haven't planned much for my blog this week so thought to myself "hey, why not just babble on about nonsense" because I am generally quite good at that. I am currently in the process of going from one job to another and not in a routine yet and with my sleep all over the place I am trying to relax when I have a spare moment so blogging has not been as on point. September is going to be hectic after all so need some me time when I can grab it! Not only that, I am trying to get used to the commute to Milton Keynes city centre where I am currently working and will be when the new store opens. I get really anxious with travel and like to waste 15-20 minutes of my time waiting for the bus when the stop is literally down the end of my road. Crazy? I know! I just worry so much I will miss it but I am pretty sure I will not being doing that when it begins to rain more. It is already getting a bit rainy and chilly so as soon as I can get my winter coat from my Autumn Wishlist the better. Plus, the gorgeous mustard colour will brighten up my commute.
I'm currently reading The Girl On The Train by Paula Hawkins. Yes, the girl on the bus is reading A Girl On The Train. But I am hooked! I cannot put it down and can't wait to get back on the bus to read some more. It is great to have a book like that after attempting to read Game of Thrones after being hooked on the TV series (I cannot wait for that to return to Sky Atlantic next year). I love that when I book draws you in so much you just want to be on that bus or train to get more in to it. I am very interested in the characters, the story and the way it is written. I want to know all the answers to my questions such as "who is she really?', "what did she do?" etc. I will do a full book review once I have read it so keep your eye out for that. If you can recommend any books that you have read recently feel free to let me know. I am quite tempted to read The Versions of Us by Laura Barnett at some point. Have you read it? Is it any good?
I am wanting to get in to a new TV series to watch on cosy nights in this Autumn. I would be in to Orange is the New Black if I had Netflix but I don't so it is Sky I have to select from. I always have music or YouTube videos on in the background when working or blogging but need to get hooked on something new. Any suggestions? I will probably end up repeating Game of Thrones at some point as I miss watching it. Of course I am really enjoying the new series of The Great British Bake Off on BBC1 and must plan a day to do some baking. I want to try making macaroons with the book I got about them, but it is just finding time right now to do so.
I've made plans to spend the Bank Holiday weekend with my two brilliantly funny friends from University and am very excited to see them and spend some quality time with them again. It is nice having them down the road again rather than miles away to keep me laughing.
Things on my to do list include: using my Lush products from the Lush Event I went to, getting more Lush / make up products, getting that red lipstick I am desperate for, buy new converses (the hole on my current pair is getting ridiculous), buy my new work wardrobe, start my little print project (must buy pinboard) and plan/write more blog posts.
I know once I am in a routine I will be more awake and energetic to do things but I feel very excited about the next few weeks and determined to get stuck in and make the most of things. I know I will have down days where plans may not happen, the weather and commute will get annoying or I feel like I have done a bad job at work, but I am only human and it happens to us all. It is all about drawing out the positives or having small things to look forward to like using those Lush products and then lighting some candles and watching a show, reading my book, blogging or seeing my friends. I am just trying to continuosuly aim on working on my goals and objectives that sometimes it can be slightly overwhelming and I don't know which one to handle first, that is where my lists and day to day lists come in handy by breaking everything down. I think lists are even better when in lovely stationary, don't you? One thing I am very much looking forward to is, of course, going to see The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part Two in Novemeber. I can't believe it is the final one already. I remember reading all the books in one summer and fell in love with the story and characters.
I have had some lovely feedback from new readers this week about how much they have enjoyed reading my blog and it means a lot to me that the stuff I write (and sometimes believe is good) people actually enjoy reading. I still have things I would love to change about the blog and need to get better at using my camera but it all comes with time. Whilst I am on the subject, I just wanted to say a huge thank you to all my readers and followers and to those who have encouraged me to start the blog. The feedback as been a real boost and makes me want to keep doing little things and going on adventures so I can write all about them on here.

What are you reading at the moment? Any TV you are watching that is nothing but brilliant?

- Speak soon, Lisa Jayne X