#Fab 40&039;s

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The Fab 40s are a group of bloggers in our forties who ‘meet’ once a month to post outfit photos on a particular theme. And we have such fun doing it too (see our fairytale theme or our rainbow theme, for example)! This month, it was my turn to choose the theme and I decided upon ‘goth vibes’, purely because I’ve always been a bit of a closet goth and just adore this dark and mysterious look!

Goth vibes ideas

I actually had no pre-conceived idea about what I would wear for this month’s goth vibes theme though. But when I started thinking about it, these black dungarees popped into my mind. I know what you’re thinking – dungarees aren’t exactly known for their goth-ness, but I just thought they might work. I bought them from H&M earlier in the summer and it’s been too warm to wear them until now.

Extra coverage

I have several tops in my wardrobe that would have worked for this theme but this sheer black lace blouse from Bershka was one I’d never actually worn before. Shock horror, right? I know, I know. It’s too beautiful, why haven’t I wore it?? I really can’t answer that question, to be honest. But I do love it. I’s simply stunning, isn’t it? However, it is rather sheer and a little on the sexy side. Which is probably why I figured it would be great with the dungarees, which does provide me some extra cover 😉

The boots were a no-brainer, really. I mean, don’t they just scream goth vibes? I’ve had them years, having bought them from Schuh after completely and utterly falling in love with them. They’re actually Doc Martens. Have you ever seen such a pair of totally swoon-worthy boots? I know I haven’t.

The earrings are something else that I’ve had forever. Don’t ask me where I bought them from. It was too long ago to remember! Aren’t they divine? To me, they also scream goth vibes (and a little Victorian, which is something that goes in hand with the goth look, wouldn’t you agree?).

Oh, I almost forgot to mention the bag! As a Harry Potter nutter myself, my friends bought this for me last Christmas! Isn’t it fabulous? I keep forgetting I have it, so this is actually the very first time I’ve used it lol!!

The motorbike belongs to hubby. As a total motorhead, he has three (naturally). This is one he bought especially for the race track a couple of years ago. I don’t know why we decided to use the bike in the photoshoot but it works really well – not to mention the fact that it was enormous fun. Our cats had fun too (see if you can spot them!).

But that’s enough about me, let’s see what the other Fab40s gals are wearing for this month’s goth vibes theme…

What Lizzy Loves

Our guest this month is the absolutely stunning, Lizzy from What Lizzy Loves. I’ve been following her for a few years now and I’m so delighted she agreed to join us this month. Not only is she beautiful, she’s also one of the loveliest bloggers you’re ever likely to meet! I simply adore her constellation dress – she’s like a goth princess!

Dress: Marks and Spencer (last year)

Ankle boots: Clarks (several years ago)

Tights: Topshop (current)

Choker (was my late Grandmother’s)

Sheela Goh

Sheela never ceases to amaze me with her uber stylishness. I couldn’t wait to see what she had in store for us this month and she certainly didn’t disappoint! Just look at this photo! It’s something out of a super expensive glossy magazine. And check out this gorgeous black and red dress. I need it!! Dress – Thrifted Swiss Dot Lace Top – Forever21 Choker – c/o ManicPanic NYC Rings – Disney c/o my love @mdurdenx Boots – Make Me Chic Cuff – Loewe Lipstick – Anastasia Beverly Hills

A Pocketful of Polka Dots

Jennie is totally rocking the ‘grown up goth’ look here, and I just ADORE it! It’s dark, it’s truly goth and it’s sexy too. Jennie looks amazing! Portofino Top – Express Leather & Suede Skirt – Ivanka Trump Jewelry – NY&Co. Fishnet Tights – c/o Berkshire Hosiery Shoes – Nine West

Shelbee on the Edge

When I chose this month’s theme, I knew that Shelbee would absolutely rock it. I think she’s a bit of a closet goth too. It’s like this theme was made for her. I mean, just look at those tights!! The boots! The belt! The dress! The coat! All of it – she looks absolutely fabulous!

Outfit Details:

Top, Skirt, and Belt: Torrid

Plaid Jacket and Tights: Target

Coat: Talbots (Really, really old)

Earrings: Happiness Boutique

Tanker Boots: U.S. Patriot Tactical

Daenel, Living Outside the Stacks

Daenel’s pictures this month are incredible! They’re perfect for the goth theme, not to mention Halloween. She actually put on this outfit and then realised she looked like, as she puts it, a ‘librarian version of Wednesday Addams’. And she totally does! Doesn’t she look incredible? She calls this look ‘nerdy gothic vibes’ which is simply brilliant 🙂 Dress: Zulily Tights: Old

Curly Byrdie Chirps

Mary has chosen a more colourful option with a plaid goth look which is absolutely gorgeous! And I love that she’s glammed it up even further with a statement necklace.

Fab40s: this month we’re channeling our goth vibes The Fab 40s are a group of bloggers in our forties who 'meet' once a month to post outfit photos on a particular theme.

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I can’t believe it’s been a whole month since the last Fab 40s! But it has been and so we’re all together again to share our posts, aptly entitled Mad About Plaid. Now, to be honest I’m not actually mad about plaid at all. I do like it, but I only owned one plaid thing and it’s a pink shirt. Nothing special. Nothing I’d want to dress up and feature on the blog! So, a shopping trip was in order. And shopping for plaid, I called upon the plaid queen herself, my friend Sarah…

Plaid queen, Sarah

Sarah is not a shopper. She doesn’t like shopping for clothes. However, if you throw plaid into the mix, she positively jumps for joy at the thought. You see, Sarah has a little problem (!). She’s totally and utterly plaid mad! Honestly, whenever we meet up at our local shopping centre, the only thing she ever focusses on is plaid. I can frequently be heard saying (rather loudly), “Sarah, step away from the plaid!”. LOL, but seriously, I couldn’t think of anyone better (or more fun) to shop with for the Mad About Plaid theme. And for our shopping trip, she wore her favourite plaid so I could show you exactly what I’m on about! She even has plaid shoe laces and plaid hair scrunchie!

Plaid certainly is IN this season

So we visited shop after shop to see what could be found, and I must admit, plaid is IN this season. There’s loads of it. But do you think I could find anything that was me? Not really. The problem is with my super short hair (even shorter at the moment much to my husband’s disgust), I must avoid certain clothes, otherwise I can look too masculine and plaid – especially plaid shirts – have that very effect.

Luckily we stumbled across this little off the shoulder beauty in the kids department in H&M and I knew immediately it was perfect. Not only is it plaid, but it’s super feminine too. Perfect. And it only cost €12.99! Bargain! I teamed it with my favourite skinny Levis, my Rockport booties and small (but perfectly formed) Massimo Dutt suede bag. A simple look but one I’m sure I will rock again and again.

Now let’s see what all the other Fab40s gals are sporting this month…

Mad about plaid Fab 40s

Jennie from A Pocketful of Polka Dots

Jennie is looking super cute in her plaid pumps and gingham pants and glasses this month! And the red jacket just pulls it all together. I have to say, red is certainly Jennie’s colour, isn’t it? She looks stunning! The playfulness of this photo is simply gorgeous, Jennie 🙂 Jacket – c/o Whistle River Trading Barcelona Cami – Express Plaid Pants – SoHo Apparel Ltd. Plaid Sneakers – Mossimmo Supply Co. Sunnies – Amazon Fashion

Sheela from Sheela Writes

Sheela’s photos always look like something out of Vogue magazine and this month’s image is no exception – she looks uber stylish in her plaid trousers and quirky jacket. And those shoes! WOW. Seriously woman, you’ve got style in buckets!! Brown Plaid Coat Dress – purchased from Kuching B&W Plaid Pants, Sunnies & Striped Blouse – c/o New York & Co Heels – Cici Hot

Mary from Curly Byrdie Chirps

Mary is looking tres chic and a little Francais in this gorgeous plaid dress. And she’s accessorised it beautifully with a fabulous bright orange beret and ankle boots. Super! Dress – New York and Company  Booties – Target  Beret – Forever 21  Bag – Target  Earring – JCPenney 

Shelbee from Shelbee on the Edge

We are delighted to welcome Shelbee as a new member to the Fab 40s group. Shelbee has long been a favourite blogger and friend to us all so we’re delighted she had agreed to join us. And I love love love her photo this month! She looks super cute but a little rock chick at the same time. My kinda look, Shelbee!

And our fabulous guest this month, CaNesha from Crowned CaNesha

I’m absolutely loving CaNesha’s trousers, they’re absolutely gorgeous (I do love a wide-legged trouser). They’re certainly a statement piece and her cute tee is utter perfection. Pop on over to check out CaNesha’s blog where you’ll find even more gorgeous style posts and more! Slacks and T-Shirt – NY & Company

  Fab 40s: Mad about plaid, and meet my plaidaholic friend Sarah I can't believe it's been a whole month since the last Fab 40s! But it has been and so we're all together again to share our posts, aptly entitled Mad About Plaid.

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I’m absolutely delighted to have been invited to be this month’s guest blogger with the Fab 40’s. And the theme today is one of my absolute favourite fabrics: velvet. Honestly, if I could have a third of my wardrobe in velvet, I would. The other two would be denim and lace 😉 Sadly, I don’t seem to own that much of it, which is weird considering my love for it. I think I’ve had lots of velvet over the years but I’ve probably worn it all to death and therefore had to sling it. Hopefully that won’t happen to this dress though. But before I tell you about that, read on to find out about the Fab 40’s…

The Fab 40’s is a group of seven stylish fashion bloggers from around the globe. Each month they choose a different theme and invite a guest blogger who is also in their forties to join them. This group’s goal is to take on style trends and show how they each interpret and incorporate them into their own lives. With eight widely varied views, you are certain to find something that speaks to you each month and encourages you to continue to have fun with fashion after 40. And today’s guest YAY!!

So, back to my beautiful dress. Not only is it in such luxurious soft velvet, it’s also in my favourite colour in the whole world: emerald green. I mean, seriously, I think I should have been the Wicked Witch of the West’s daughter or something! That colour is just D.I.V.I.N.E. Let me just add here though, I’m not wicked…not really. Not today anyway he he he 😉

I discovered this cute little strapless dress whilst shopping in the States a few weeks ago (it seems so much longer ago than that though, sigh). Forever 21 was the shop. I’d heard of it via my fellow bloggers but never had the chance to step into the store and when I did I was like a kid in a chocolate factory. And I’ve just looked online and it seems they do have a European store online YAY!

But there was just one thing I had to have. And that was this dress. I spotted it almost immediately and grabbed it. I didn’t even try it on, because I was wearing so many layers due to the extreme cold in Boston at that time. Luckily it fit, although I do need a bit of a padded strapless bra to hold it up because I’m a bit lacking in that department. (If you’re the opposite of me however, I recommend you pop on over to read Shelbee’s post on dealing with big boobs!)

The added bonus was the price. I’m not sure what the original was but I think I paid six dollars for it! OMG is that a bargain or what? Especially considering I felt a million dollars when I put it on. Although, that might also have something to do with my new hairdo. Oh and my new gold Converse All Stars, which were also a bargain in the January sales. How I love American outlets stores!

The stunning gold necklace belonged to my late stepmother-in-law and the white shirt and clutch are both from my other favourite store, Massimo Dutti. Did you know there’s a Massimo Dutti store in New York? On Fifth Avenue of all places too! Needless to say, we popped in to have a look but it was more expensive than its European counterparts. Probably because it’s a European store. Makes sense. I also wore a pair of flesh coloured tights with a pair of flesh coloured fishnets over the top. After all, it IS winter 😉

But that’s enough about me. Let’s have a look and see how these other fabulous bloggers have included velvet into their outfits. I can’t wait…

Sheela Goh always looks gorgeous on her blog but today, she is utterly ravishing in her purple velvet boots. After emerald green, that shade of purple is my next favourite colour (as well as midnight blue) so I am coveting them lol. That kimono is just beautiful too, I love the detailing on the sleeve. Embellished Velvet Duster – c/o Forever21 Purple Corset Velvet Boots – c/o ShoeDazzle Velvet Drawstring Bag – Zara Red Sunnies – Poshmark Taylor Swift Reputation Snake Ring – gifted

The fabulous Annie from Kremb de la Kremb also just happens to be wearing a delicious blush velvet dress from Forever 21 – a store she adores and wonders if it ought to be called Forever 41? Doesn’t she look freaking incredible? Dress – Forever 21 Beaded Clutch – Tory Burch sample Sandals – Targé Rose Necklace – Christmas present from Hunter X Hunter

The uber stylish Jennie from A Pocketful of Polka Dots is wearing the suit of all suits! It’s a velvet outfit to die for, right? Just look at that colour, not to mention those shoes! Velvet Suit and Lace Cami – Loft Necklace & Earrings – NY&Co. Shoes – Y-Not?

The gorgeous Mary from Curly Birdie Chirps, is wearing the cutest pair of blue velvet sock boots and a dress to die for. I’m in love with this bright pink frock. Isn’t it divine?

Dress and earrings – H&M Booties velvet – Target Belt – The Limited Purse – Jcpenney

Now back to some of my more ‘comedic’ photos. I was trying out different poses for a laugh (and it was!). But the best photo is the one where the cat decided to take part. Scroll down and you’ll see what I mean 🙂

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I’m today’s guest blogger with the Fab 40s: Velvet I'm absolutely delighted to have been invited to be this month's guest blogger with the Fab 40's.

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Howdy folks! It’s that time of the month again – it’s the Fab40s – and this November we’re taking on the western style that’s all the rage at the moment. The other gals have completely pulled it out of the bag this time round (as always), but before we check out how they’re all looking, here’s my interpretation…

Naturally I just had to get my old Zara cowboy boots out of the wardrobe (what else?!) and my brown buckle belt which I do believe came free with a pair of jeans years ago! I’ve always thought it had a bit of a western vibe to it so it seemed the perfect accessory for the western style theme. But back to the boots, I do own a second pair of cowboy boots that hubby bought for me years and years ago. The thing is, I never wear them because they’re soooooo pointy. They are beautifully made in lovely soft leather too, and because they were a gift from hubby, I can’t bring myself to get rid of them. Maybe one day, super pointy cowboy boots will make a comeback lol 😉

You can’t get more western than denim jeans so I opted for my favourite pair of Levi’s. I know that bootcut would’ve been more apt for the western style but I didn’t want to go all in. Instead, I decided to put my own personal vibe onto this look. And you can’t get more me than skinny jeans!

My own personal vibe

And speaking of adding my own personal vibe… well, hello black lace. I adore this black lace top because it’s got a slight Victorian feel to it (one of my absolute favourite looks – if I could wear full-on Victorian dresses every day, I’d be in heaven lol). I bought it from F+F Tesco a few years ago. But back to the western style theme. For some reason, when I think of western, I also think of Victorian. Perhaps it’s from watching really old western movies from that era, I don’t know. I’m actually not a big fan of western movies lol so I don’t know where that came from! But Western Victorian. Can’t that be a thing?

The other thing that I figured could be considered western style is the poncho. The only one I had when we shot these images was my trusty Massimo Dutti which isn’t quite a poncho, but close enough. Anyway, it worked quite well for this theme, wouldn’t you agree? I’ve since bought the most gorgeous ‘proper’ poncho which I’ll be featuring on the blog soon 🙂

But that’s enough about me. Let’s check out what the other fab40s gals are wearing…

The Fab40s do western style…

Shelbee of Shelbee on the Edge

Shelbee looks freaking fabulous in her short cowboy boots, plaid shirt, poncho and pigtails! I love that she matched her necklace to her poncho too. Seriously cool, Shelbee! Outfit: Wrap: Zaful Plaid Shirt: Torrid Shorts: Old Navy Vest: Target Boots: Ariat Fat Baby Necklace: Old (Kohl’s, maybe?) Earrings: Shelbee made them! 

Jennie of A Pocketful of Polka Dots

Jennie is the only one of us that chose to wear a dress and my God, did she totally knock this one out of the ballpark! She looks absolutely beautiful – and the brown boots are freaking gorgeous, right? Her photos really are insanely gorgeous ❤ Outfit: Jean Jacket – NY&Co. Dress – Vivid Collection of NY Dress Extender – a’reve Necklace – Kay & Star Earrings – NY&Co. Boots – Smokey Mountain Boots

Sheela of Sheela Writes

As always, Sheela is rocking this western style theme, showing off her incredible legs in the most gorgeous blue romper and denim jacket. I never even thought about wearing a denim jacket but it’s super apt for this theme, isn’t it? Sheela looks bloody gorgeous. I’m so jealous of those legs… I can’t stop staring at them! Outfit: Fringe Jacket, Camo Boots & Suede Choker – Poshmark Playsuit – Goodwill Turquoise Necklace – c/o Ettika Utility Belt – Salvation Army Bracelets – Isabel Marant Leather Hat – Australia

Daenel of Living Outside the Stacks

I love that Daenel and I both shared the black blouse (sheer along the shoulders), blue jeans and black boots look. And she’s completely rocking the theme with the addition of the most gorgeous head scarf. She looks super cool! Outfit: Lace Top – Old Earrings – Nickel and Suede Jeans – Laurie Felt Weekender Underpatch Jeans, QVC Boots – Musse and Cloud, Evine Live

And our gorgeous special guest this month, Dee of Dee Sayz

If someone told you to think of western style, you’d probably immediately think of fringing and that’s exactly what Dee has chosen in her outfit and she looks amazing! I particularly love the addition of the yellow tinted glasses. Outfit: Faux Suede Tan Fringe Shrug: Serenity Fringe Boot Cut Denim: Forever 21 White T: Vero Moda Scarf: StalkBuyLove.com Tan Fringe Bag: Amazon.in Chocolate Ankle Boots: Mango Colored Sunglasses: Lenskart 

WHERE I LINK UP

Not Dressed as Lamb

Shelbee on the Edge

Style Splash

Living on Cloud Nine

A Pocketful of Polka Dots

Nancy’s Fashion Style

Chic & Stylish (Mumma B Stylish)

Elegantly Dressed & Stylish

Top of the World

Elegance & Mommyhood

    Taking on the western style trend with the Fab 40s Howdy folks! It's that time of the month again – it's the Fab40s – and this November we're taking on the western style that's all the rage at the moment.

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It’s the Fab 40s again! YAY! We’re a group of bloggers in our 40s who unite once a month using a common theme. Each of us, interpret this theme in our own (unique!) way lol. This month we’re all laced-up. And boy did I struggle with it. I felt like I should be wearing something that laced up, but could I find anything? Anything worthy of a blog post anyway? Nope…

I thought perhaps I should cut up a tee-shirt and then lace it back together. But if you’ve ever seen my attempts at making clothes, you’d know that wouldn’t have been very pretty lol. Hubby then suggested I wear head to toe lace (eye roll…. I knew what he had in mind!) but I didn’t think that was the real meaning of the theme. In the end, I just happened to spot this gorgeous fuchsia pink ribbon in my wardrobe and thought how fab it would look laced up in my Converse.

Vans or Converse?

Actually, first of all I laced up my glittery gold Vans with them, which looked pretty cool. Unfortunately, my Vans are a bit on the snug side and in this heat it was just too much. So, I decided to add the pink ribbons to my white Converse All Stars instead. I must admit, I do love the result. It’s bright, fun and girlie too!

So, next up… what do I wear with my laced up Converse? Hm… a pink summer dress? Perhaps. But no. That’s just a little too much pink. How about this Primark black and white printed pencil skirt? Yes! Add to that, my Pull & Bear black top which I have worn on the blog once before. But this time I tucked it in just to be a little more polished (even though I would have preferred it to be out on account of my bloated {time of the month} tummy).

Some fun bright pink earrings (I can’t remember where I bought them from), and a super cute little girlie handbag which was a gift from my mother-in-law a few Christmases ago. The colour matches perfectly with the ribbon 🙂

So that’s me and my very vague interpretation of laced up. Let’s see what the other Fab 40s Gals have come up with….

Sheela of Sheela Writes

Sheela has completely knocked it out of the park this month with corset ties and lace! Her images are nothing less than beautiful and this pic is just another example of her cleverness. I love everything about this photo – the styling, the location, the colours. Sheela clearly is a blogging genius!

Laced-Up Jeans – Mango

Top – Kenzo

Shoes – I can’t remember

Jacket – Blank NYC

Leather Cuff – c/o Unearthed.etsy.com

Sunnies – Chanel

Annie of Kremb de la Kremb

As we know, Annie is the queen of sneakers! She always wears them incredibly well and whenever I see her pics, I do have sneaker envy lol. Today is no exception! Look at these bad boys! I actually had a pair a little like these twenty years ago and I wore them on my honeymoon. Sadly, I no longer have them but if I did, I’d want to wear them with a striped suit just like Annie ❤ Earrings–one pair from Forever 21, the other pair from Zara

White Ribbed Tank–Rite Aid

Striped Short Suit–A New Day from Target

Boom Box Bag–random boutique from Ladies’ Street in Mong Kok, Hong Kong

Socks–Forever 21

Sneakers–Fila Disruptor

Jennie of A Pocketful of Polka Dots

Jennie decided to go for lace (I wish I had now lol!) and she looks utterly beautiful! Lace with denim is simply gorgeous – there’s something very casual yet sexy about it, isn’t there? I also love the fact that Jennie added a hint of animal print into the mix with her gorgeous tote! Jacket – NY&Co. Lace Tank – Loft Lace Skirt – Worthington Lace Pumps – Joey O Jewelry – Various Tote – Amazon

Mary of Curly Byrdie Chirps

I love that it’s opposites that attract in Mary’s look this month. She is looking super girlie with her gorgeous lacey red dress and then added a pair of funky laced up black booties! Add to that, a gorgeous black bag and you’ve got hot rock chick! Gorgeous! Dress- She in

Shoes – Jcpenney 

Purse – Goodwill

Earrings Target 

Our awesome guest this month, Shelbee of Shelbee on the Edge

Shelbee is one of my favourite bloggers (she writes with such honesty) so I was delighted to hear she would be joining us this month. If you have’t checked out her blog, you really must! I think she absolutely nailed the ‘laced up’ theme here. Not only has she got on the most fabulous corset but she’s also incorporated some stunning lace pieces too, giving her a decidedly super sexy look! Ooh la la Shelbee! Her outfit: Dress: Old Navy Kimono: Charlotte Russe Corset Belt: Torrid Shoes: DSW Necklace: Happiness Boutique

And me…

The Fab 40s: this month we’re all laced up! It's the Fab 40s again! YAY! We're a group of bloggers in our 40s who unite once a month using a common theme.

[suzyturnerbooks]

I’m putting on my evil face because, for the Fab 40s this month, we’re being inspired by fairytales. And not all fairytales are all light and airy, oh no. Some of the very best fairytales are dark and filled with doom and gloom, right (actually, most of them are!)? So, my take on being inspired by fairytales features the darkness within. The villainesses of such fairytales. Maleficent, the Black Fairy, the Evil Queen. You get the picture right?

Creating a fairytale theme

This month, it was up to me to come up with the Fab 40s theme, and being the imaginative, storyteller that I am (!), I just couldn’t resist suggesting something a bit different. Something a bit mad. And yes, something a bit quirky. That’s me! So, ‘inspired by fairytales’ was the result. I probably should’ve given it a bit more thought because do you know how difficult it is to come up with an outfit that is, in fact, inspired by fairytales? It ain’t easy! I think the other gals of the Fab 40s gang, thought I’d gone mad (or should I say, evil?!). I think they struggled as much as I did. Poor Annie from Kremb de la Kremb misunderstood my theme altogether, but not to worry, she nailed it anyway!

So, let’s talk about my fairytale outfit. You might think I went a little fancy dress with the addition of the black feather in the hair but I couldn’t resist. I had intended to dig out my Harry Potter wand too but then forgot to take it with me lol.

Never worn before…

I bought this beautiful navy blue dress from Massimo Dutti several years ago, and do you think I’ve ever worn it? Nope. Not once. Crazy, right? It’s such a beautiful full length dress, but I guess I just don’t go anywhere fancy enough to wear dresses like this. Unfortunately I completely forgot to take a couple of photos without the cardigan to show you the full dress. I will next time though.

The shoes were hand-me-downs from my lovely pal, Christine. In case you’re wondering, I didn’t hike up there in these heels lol! I wore flip flops (which are probably worse!). And this pretty silver clutch belonged to my late step-mother-in-law.

I chose to wear this cardigan with the dress because it wasn’t particularly warm on this occasion. The weather is still really up and down over here in the Algarve. As I write, it’s really cloudy and it has rained on and off a little bit. It’s dark and a bit gloomy looking too. And because we headed up the mountain to take the photos, I knew I’d need a warmer layer. The black belt added to the fairytale feel of the outfit, as did the evil black necklace – it does look a bit evil, doesn’t it? I think it’s fab! As well as the silver floral bracelet. Both of which were bought really cheaply from a local market stall.

A beautiful, mountain setting

But speaking of the fairytale themes, isn’t this the most incredible location? It reminded me of my YA books The Raven Saga. This could so easily be the mountain setting where many of my supernatural characters live! It’s amazing. We were driving around trying to find somewhere ideal for this ‘inspired by fairytales’ theme, when hubby suddenly pulled over and pointed to the most magical tree and we just knew it was perfect. We did get some odd looks from a few ramblers though – especially as I climbed up the rocks in my fancy frock!! The things we do for the blog, eh?!

All in all, I wanted to produce a fairytale look that could easily be worn to a special occasion by pretty much anyone. A look that would appeal to those that love a little darkness in their lives 😉 Personally, I’ve always been a little bit of a goth. I always adored wearing dark colours and I love nothing more than to read dark, supernatural urban fantasy stories set in settings like these. To me, this was a fairytale, not just inspired by fairytales 🙂

The Fab 40s gals

Let’s see what the other gals of the Fab 40s wore for this ridiculously fun theme this month…

A Pocketful fo Polka Dots

Jennie from a Pocketful of Polka Dots was inspired by The Red Shoes. Do you know the story? It’s quite a dark tale – quite the opposite of how beautiful, light and colourful Jennie looks though! Personally, I just LOVE this photo of her in her fabulous red shoes and gorgeous polka dot yellow dress. Dress – c/o Zaful Earrings – c/o Zaful Shoes – BCBG Max Azria

Sheela Goh

Sheela from Sheela Goh was, like me, inspired by the darkness found in many of the old fairytales. The Evil Queen, in particular. I must say, I thought the addition of the red apple was simply genius! And aren’t those strappy red heels gorgeous?! Plaid Taffeta Bustier – L.A.M.B. (thrifted) Velvet Shorts – H&M Red Heels – Cicihot.com Goth Bangle & Raven Skull Ring – Alchemy of England Red Leather Cuff – c/o Unearthed on Etsy Punk Choker – c/o ManicPanic NYC Moonstone Ring – c/o Moonmagic.com Ombre Sunnies – Poshmark Lipstick – #2 MeloMELI c/o Beautytap.com Red Apple – c/o husband via Randall’s 

Kremb de la Kremb

As I mentioned previously, Annie of Kremb de la Kremb slightly misunderstood my theme and instead went for Tales of the Unexpected. However, I think this works well because she’s gone for something completely unexpected! As always, she looks incredible and her photo is bloody brilliant!

Curly Birdie Chirps

Mary of Curly Birdie Chirps has opted for a look inspired by Belle from Beauty and the beast and I don’t think she could look more cute! What an adorable outfit. And I must say, I really do like the yellow sandals with those socks! Dress and Earrings – Ny and Company  Shoes – JCPenney  Bag – Amazon  Socks – Target 

Living on Cloud Nine

And last, but certainly not least, is my beautiful blogging pal, Andrea from Living on Cloud Nine who looks absolutely spectacular in this stunning pale blue dress which was clearly made for her. Inspired by the likes of Cinderella, Andrea is an absolute vision in the forest! Dress – Wayf from Nordstrom Necklace – Amazon Earrings – Nickel and Suede Shoes – Sam Edelman 

What do you think of our fairytale-inspired looks? Would you consider fairytales when getting dressed? Do you ever think of fun themes and then get dressed accordingly? If not, I’d highly recommend it. This was the most fun I’ve had getting dressed in ages lol!!

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Fab 40s: This month we’re being inspired by fairytales I'm putting on my evil face because, for the Fab 40s this month, we're being inspired by fairytales.

[suzyturnerbooks]

This month’s FAB 40s theme of ‘colours of the rainbow’ was the most fun I’ve had blogging so far! I pondered over the course of several weeks, about what I would wear. The only thing I knew I wanted to include was this purple coat (which was a gift from my mother-in-law a few years ago). I also knew I wanted to incorporate as many colours of the rainbow as possible.

So, last week I went shopping to see if I could find anything inspiring. The only thing I bought was this plain green cardigan from H&M. I do love their cardies – I have a grey one, a red one and an orange one. And I always look to see what other colours are new. I’ve been wanting a hot pink one but I’ve yet to find that colour. Hopefully soon though.

My red trousers were the obvious choice because, like I said, I wanted to include all the colours of the rainbow into this outfit. Sadly, I don’t own trousers in any other bright colours – but, again, I do keep looking. I’d especially love a yellow pair. I must add, I’m not particularly fond of these trousers. I bought them years ago from Modalfa (a Portuguese brand) and I’m not over keen on the fit. The waistband is a little low for my liking. I do prefer a much higher waist – I think it’s much more flattering. But they’re okay for the occasional wear.

My purple shoes went so well with the coat that I just couldn’t resist them. I own the same pair in grey – but unfortunately the shop I bought them from closed down years ago. They’re such a comfortable pair of shoes. They’re not too high and I love the slightly rounded toe and thicker heel.

Beneath my purple coat and green cardigan, I needed something blue. The only thing I could find which went well beneath the cardie, was this simple tee that I bought from H&M a few years ago.

Whilst putting this look together, I kept singing to myself, “red and yellow and pink and green, orange and purple and blue…..” lol. So, I had red in the trousers and I needed something yellow. My handbag! I bought this from a local market stall (it’s actually a Michael Kors knock off!). Next was pink – I figured the pink scarf tied around the bag would do. That, and these cute pink earrings (another gift from mother-in-law).

So the only colour I failed to wear was orange. I thought about wearing an orange scarf but the only one I have is super thick and it covered up the rest of the colours. And then I thought – orange nail varnish! So there you go, every colour 😉

But I added more colour with my beautiful necklace from The Eternal Collection, and my favourite Swarovski ring which hubby bought for our wedding anniversary a few years ago. It’s gorgeous isn’t it? Not to mention the blue eyeliner and pink lipstick. I know, I know, colourful makeup can look a bit tacky but I didn’t care. On this occasion, it was pure fun. Speaking of fun, can you tell I was having a blast with the photos? 😉

Anyway, what I’d hoped to prove with this colours of the rainbow outfit, is that colour is something you shouldn’t shy away from. It’s fun to play with. Like when you were a kid and delved into your mother’s wardrobe to play dress up. That’s kind of how I felt putting this outfit together.

So don’t be frightened of colour. Be bright and be bold, let the colours do the talking, and add as many different options as you like. As you can see, I don’t look like a bag lady (I hope!) lol. Actually, I’ve been binge watching Mad Men lately and during the photoshoot, I really felt like I was channeling Joan from that show! I do love the clothes from that era.

But enough of me, I bet you’re dying to see how the other FAB 40s girls styled colours of the rainbow. Well, here they are…

Sheela from Sheela Goh

Sheela kills it EVERY SINGLE TIME!! She’s like the queen of wearing shorts and would you just look at those legs! Seriously, those are some serious boots, aren’t they? They’re so much fun and go perfectly with the rest of this fabulous outfit. Blazer – thrifted Top – Zara Shorts – H&M Booties – c/o Forever21 Bag (just peeking out) – Botkier

Jennie from A Pocketful of Polka Dots

Jennie is definitely the queen of colour sophistication here! I love how she’s added that little scarf which just adds an extra je ne sais quoi! And aren’t those sunglasses fabulous?! Not to mention the colour of that gorgeous blazer! Blazer – Harve’ Benard Tee – Old Navy Pants – Worthington Shoes – Nine West Scarf – D&Y Earrings – Amazon Tote – Kate Spade Sunglasses – Deb & Dave

Annie from Kremb de la Kremb

Annie always looks like she’s having loads of fun! I just love that she took the rainbow colours literally here with the rainbow stripes on her shoes and socks. This is such a fabulous and fun look, isn’t it? But would you just check out that dress? Annie LOVES her some sequins and I love how she dresses it down to make an everyday kind of look. AWESOME Annie! Sunnies, Dress, and Belt Bag – Zara Socks and Tennies – Forever 21 Jean Jacket – thrifted

Mary from Curly Byrdie Chirps

Like Jennie, Mary just screams sophistication with this outfit – taking the less is more stance with the colour. But I love those pink pumps with the yellow blouse, tying it together with that fun orange and pink belt. Gorgeous! Skirt – Eva Mendes New York and Company Top – New York and Company Shoes – Jessica Simpson Bag – Kohl’s Sunnies – Gordman’s Earrings – Jcpenney

And our special guest this month, Jasilika of Jasilika

I’m so thrilled to have Jasilica with us this month. Such a beautiful lady, her outfit is simply gorgeous. I mean, she’s also taken the theme of colours of the rainbow quite literally in her stripey dress which is divine! I also LOVE those metallic pumps. Sweater and skirt – New York & Company’s 7th Avenue Collection Shades – Design Fashion Warehouse Heels – ASOS

All in all, I think we all pulled off the colours of the rainbow look to perfection (if I don’t say so myself LOL), proving that colour really is king! Do you love colour? How do you wear yours?

SHOP MY LOOK

[shopr_shopthepost collection=”colours-of-the-rainbow” size=”medium”]

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FAB 40s: How to wear the colours of the rainbow This month's FAB 40s theme of 'colours of the rainbow' was the most fun I've had blogging so far!

[suzyturnerbooks]

Fab 40s: Keeping warm and stylish at the same time

Fab 40s: Keeping warm and stylish at the same time

Keeping warm and stylish is something many of us struggle with during the winter months. So how do we do it? That is the FAB 40s theme this February. And speaking of the FAB 40s, I’m absolutely delighted to have been invited into the group. I am now a permanent fixture within this group of amazing women in their 40s. I’m chuffed to bits, as they say in my neck of the woods (Yorkshire, England,…