If there was one word to describe my mood/thoughts/motives/life over the past few weeks, it would be Wanderlust. Whether it’s because of my recent inability to stop working 18hr days and therefore the total need to take a break, or the constant stream of Holiday envy via Instagram – yeah, stalking following travel bloggers isn’t really the best idea for this – I have been thinking/dreaming of a holiday consistently so my fiance and I decided (over an Indian Takeaway and wine binge, no less) that we’d go away somewhere in the next few months.
At the moment, we are umming and ahhing over a city break or a beach holiday but either way, I am beyond excited. So I thought with this mysterious trip looming that I would put together a Holiday Essentials post – as my last holiday/summer type essential post went down so well. Thanks guys [insert embarrassed smile emoji here] – and when Marks and Spencer got in touch and asked if I’d like to collaborate with them on this project, it was of course a no brainer.
I mean, surely this means I’m practically best mates with Rosie Huntington Whitely and David Gandy now, right? Right…
So, here are my holiday essentials in the form of my “must-have”/”does it all” holiday clothing item and some beauty/grooming products and tools.
The Fashion essentials
Dear Lord, please bring the sunshine out because I want to wear this two-piece all summer long. Love, Elle. This two-piece is the most comfortable, stunningly well made linen co-ord* that is just so incredibly versatile. Not only is it the perfect beach cover up that takes you from the sand to a beachside restaurant, but paired with a pair of wedges or summer heels and you could easily dress this up and wear it out for dinner in the evening. If that’s not enough, pop on some converse and you have the perfect sight-seeing outfit. Not only is it just versatile though, it’s also so ridiculously comfortable – I may have also slept in it on the day of shooting these photos. Sue me… – and chic with the stunning crochet pattern/design. This is easily my must pack item. You go Glen Coco Marks and Spencer!
If you’re like me, then you’ll no doubt take a ridiculously large amount of shoes with you that you definitely don’t need – and probably won’t wear – but a girl needs her options right? Right… However, as I’m talking purely about essentials today, I’m just going to choose one footwear option and that is of course a pair of sandals/sliders. These sliders are actually from Primark and I completely wore them to death last summer. They’re made of a waterproof foam-esque material so are perfect for on the beach/around the pool… but they also look quite smart and dressy paired with the right outfit. So much love!
The same – totally ridiculous – logic applies for sunglasses. I probably take around 4 pairs per holiday – making decisions is my nemesis – but for my essentials, I opted for these Rayban Aviators because they’re classic, they go with everything, and they make me feel like someone from The Hills.
“I want to forgive you, and I want to forget you” #LaurenConradGoals
A bikini. Pretty self explanatory right? This beauty is from Primark and I can’t wait to wear it. I basically just can’t wait to be somewhere hot enough to be able to wear it….
Hair Essentials
Let’s get the no-brainer out of the way first, the Tangle Teazer. Sea Salty/beachy hair might look amazing, but we all know that when it comes to brushing that shiz out… ain’t nobody got time for that. The tangle teazer brushes through tangles so easily and just keeps hair in tip top condition.
The next item is one that I was so excited to try and equally really intrigued by. It’s the Philip Kingsley Swim cap and is basically a cream that protects against UV rays, chlorine, sea and pool water as well as keeping your hair colour bright and vibrant. In other words, it’s perfect, no actually… essential, for a summer holiday/trip. It’s so simple to use too, you just put it in your damp hair, comb through and then continue on with your shampoo and conditioner. [*insert meerkat accent* Simples…]
Nail care
I am self confessed Nail polish whore – this is where my grandparents spit out their tea because they didn’t quite read that sentence right π – so I was so happy when I saw 3 mini Leighton Denny polishes *in my lovely M&S package. I’m currently wearing I love Juicy (slightly questionable name there Leighton) which is a gorgeous orange toned red which we all know is just the summer holiday colour.
Tan Essentials
OK, so you’ve got your clothing sorted, your nails are on fleek – oh for f**ks god’s sake, when will I learn to not take the piss and use nauseating “down with the kids” phrases in a blog post, subsequently hating myself? – your hair is covered… it’s time to get your skin, and more specifically, tan, in check. First thing’s first, the face tan. It’s so, so hard to get face fake tan right but for me, it’s so essential as I use sunblock on my face all year round so I am forever that idiot with a tanned body and casper the ghost face. James Read’s Overnight tan sleep mask* is genius! It’s clear, blends in seamlessly, you basically cannot feel a single thing on your face. It’s a pleasure to use and it’s an even bigger pleasure to wake up with a natural tan on my pasty face. π
On to the body and I am so excited to tell you about this next item. It’s not just any gradual tan – it’s an M&S gradual tan – No, literally… M&S stock Fake Bake which is why I got my mitts on Fake Bake’s Amplify* tan. It’s a gradual tan that also works by prolonging your tan – fake or natural – as well as giving you colour, and preparing your skin for a holiday tan.
For when you’re actually on holiday, you’re going to be needing all the SPF and my top pick for facial SPF is Ultrasun’s Face SPF* which is so amazing as it’s probably the only face SPF that absorbs within seconds, doesn’t leave you feeling sticky or oily, makeup applies seamlessly over the top… it’s perfect.
Could I possibly say the word SPF any more times if I tried?… SPF
For your body, if I’m being totally honest, I’m not too fussy. As long as it has Factor 50, has complete UV protection and smells good, I’m happy. Simple things please simple minds and all that…
The After sun essentials
You’ve spent the day on the beach in the sun, or exploring the city in the sun – basically, you’ve been exposed to all the sun – so now it’s time to look after your frazzled skin. After sun is amazing if you’ve got burnt at all as it’s cooling and soothing, but it’s also just brilliant anyway to prevent your skin from peeling and prolonging that tan. M&S’s Sun smart aftersun* is my favourite for this as it sinks in well and smells amazing!
Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise. *Confession time* when I went on holiday to Dubai, I actually only took Origin’s overnight mask and used it morning and night as my daily moisturiser because it’s so nourishing and hydrating. The sun completely dries out and dehydrates my skin so it totally just drinks that shit shiz up and I’m sure yours will too.
Exfoliate – We all know the importance of exfoliating our skin, but I recently was lucky enough to be able to try the highly lusted over Ren Radiance renewal mask* which is a face mask and chemical exfoliator. This.Stuff.Is.Incredible! (Apologies for that completely grammatically incorrect sentence right there.) But seriously, it leaves the skin feeling so soft, smooth and glowing and I will 100% be repurchasing this when it’s used up.
[insert “cry face emoji” to represent the feels coming from my bank account when that day comes]
So that brings this Holiday’s Essentials post to an end. I really enjoyed putting this piece together because not only did I totally get into the holiday spirit, but I also discovered just how incredible Marks and Spencers Holiday wear and beauty/skincare department is. I’d highly recommend checking it out online and in store.
I would love to know what your Holiday essentials are? Have you tried any of the picks that I mentioned in this post? I would love to hear your thoughts π
As always, thank you so much for reading. I hope you enjoyed this post!
xx
*Thank you so much Marks and Spencer for collaborating with me on this post. As always, all opinions are my own and 100% my honest, genuine opinion. Because I’m as real/brutal as it gets… π
I think this is one of my favourite outfits from you Elle, you look stunning! That bikini is beautiful as well.. might have to check those out inshore! xx
Great picks Elle, love the bikini and you look cute in the co-ords. I just come back from hols and now itching to book my honeymoon soon! Where you thinking of going away hun?
That two piece *hear emoji* I'd totally have slept in it too, wore it for a week… just me?
Loved the glen coco ref, looking forward to seeing where you go on holiday – I have holiday envy too, sadly my other half is off on holiday this year but I'm staying behind WAH!
That two piece though! So so gorgeous, it looks super comfy too (don't blame you sleeping in it!) and I have the REN mask and it's the best thing ever – you will NEED the repurchase!
Love that two piece, you could also make other looks with them! The sunglasses are cool, now I need to watch The Hills too! I thought you were best buds with Rosie and David?
I love the co-ord set, it's so cute! I'm so feeling the wanderlust at the mo. One of my friends has just moved to Dubai, I'm so jealous haha! Rubi | Instagram | The Den | http://www.the-den.blogspot.com
I LOVE Rosie's line for M&S – yes, you're basically her bestie! π The two piece is gorgeous and enjoy the sun while you can, we all know what British weather is like! :') xoxo,
Elle, you look so cute in those co-ords, gotta love M & S- what a great brand to collaborate with π And literally still laughing at that quote from 'The Hills'- I used to be addicted to that show as a teen
I love Drink Up and the Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask – both are definitely coming away with me! I love the sound of the Swim Cap too and your outfit is so cute! xx
Really lovely outfit! I'd never think to look in M&S as they seem to target an older audience but I really like this two piece π I also didn't know that they had beauty/holiday essentials stuff haha :') Really lovely post and I also love how you did your June favourites video π xx
Great list of holiday essentials! Love that two piece outfit, perfect for summer. I hope you get some sunshine, our summer has been pretty rainy so far.
This two piece is so pretty – the light blue looks beautiful with the embroidered pattern and it looks lightweight, making it the perfect look for summer! π
Ah that two piece is so gorgeous, I wish I'd popped into M&S when I was doing my holiday shopping! I loved this post Elle, you've made me want to buy so many new products! I've had the James Reed Sleep Tan Mask sitting in my draw for ages now, I've been too scared to use it! You've convinced me to give it a go as I currently have a super white face and body! :') Becki | beautyandthebrunette.co.uk xxx
that two piece is so lovely! I've got a suitcase filled with summer clothes for my trip the UK so let's hope the sun comes out over there! This week is going to be high 20's so hopefully it stays that way! Love the post Elle!
You look amazing, I love this two piece on you, so so pretty and of course you pull it off so well. I never look into M&S for clothes or beauty products but they've got some amazing brands don't they?! Hope you're feeling much better lovely and fingers crossed that you actually get to go away somewhere this year, you definitely deserve a holiday π x
Omggg I absolutely adore that two piece! M&S do some amazing stuff I absolutely adore their bikinis and underwear as well!
hellomissjordan.com xx
Isn't it so lovely Jordan? I love their lingerie too… it might actually be popping up in a a blog post next week π
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That two piece is stunning!
Lauren xx
So lovely isn't it, I'm so glad I picked it π
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I think this is one of my favourite outfits from you Elle, you look stunning! That bikini is beautiful as well.. might have to check those out inshore! xx
Sam // Samantha Betteridge
Ahh thanks so much Sam, I'm so glad you like it. I was surprised by how much I liked it actually π
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Great picks Elle, love the bikini and you look cute in the co-ords. I just come back from hols and now itching to book my honeymoon soon! Where you thinking of going away hun?
Hanh x | hanhabelle
Thanks so much Hanh, so glad you liked them. Ooh where are you thinking for you honeymoon? Holiday wise I've been looking at Sardinia π
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That two piece *hear emoji* I'd totally have slept in it too, wore it for a week… just me?
Loved the glen coco ref, looking forward to seeing where you go on holiday – I have holiday envy too, sadly my other half is off on holiday this year but I'm staying behind WAH!
Rosy | sparklesoflight76.blogspot.co.uk
Haha no I am so with you there, I love it, so nice and comfy! π Oh no that's a shame, hope you get away soon!
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That two piece is beautiful!!! Hopefully you find somewhere to go soon π
A Little Twist Ofβ¦
Thanks so much Meg π
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This M&S two piece is beautiful! Don't worry the forecast looks hot for next week so I'm sure you can flaunt it then. π
http://www.duchessoffashion.co.uk
Oh amazing, I'll be wearing it then for sure π
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That co-ord is beautiful!
Also, I love how much M&S have up'd their skincare game.. Fab post as always.
Sam xx
http://www.beautifie.com
They've totally upped their game haven't they? So impressed with them! Thanks lady π
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Your outfit is so cute!
CANDICE | BEAUTY CANDY LOVES
Thanks so much hun π
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LOVE the bikini & two piece! I love how you can beauty & fashion in M&S! xx
Beautylymin
Oh me too, such a one stop shop π
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I'm so impressed by M&S haha, I love that co-ord so much you look lovely x
http://wearsheiz.blogspot.co.uk
Thanks so much Izzy, so glad you like it π
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Ellie that linen co-ord is INCREDIBLE! I would have never thought to look in M&S so thank you for bringing it into my life! π LOVED this post!
Style Sunriseβ
π
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Ah thanks so much lovely, me neither until the collaboration so I'm so glad I know now π
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That two piece though! So so gorgeous, it looks super comfy too (don't blame you sleeping in it!) and I have the REN mask and it's the best thing ever – you will NEED the repurchase!
Lauren x
Britton Loves | Lifestyle Food Beauty
Oh god Lauren isn't the Ren mask too good for words… so much love for that! π
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The Origins overnight mask sounds amazing!! Never had one of these before and I've always loved REN such a great brand and adore your outfit xx
http://www.krystelcouture.com β₯
It's so good Jenny, I'd highly recommend it… can't stop using it π
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Love your outfit, looks perfect for the holidays!
http://www.notesofglam95.blogspot.it/
Thanks so much Vanessa π
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Love the bikini! Can't believe it's only Primark. Looks a lot more designer like. Must go look at their Summer collection. π x
Renata | Speaking Beauty UK
Definitely go and check it out Renata, they have so many different options too, love them! π
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Ok I'm dying over this adorable set! I love the lace detialing and that bikini!! Love the probt!
<3 Shannon
Upbeat Soles
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Thanks so much Shannon, such a babe π
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Such a gorgeous co-ord! I need to try the Origins drink up mask x
Heather | Of Beauty & Nothingness x
Heather it's my must have skincare product out of everything. Seriously, seriously recommend it π
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Gorgeous holiday look! I LOVE the co-ord, can't wait to see where you end up booking! Hopefully you can take Rosie and David along with you too π
Shot From The Street | Fashion Blog
Haha girl I will be a happy lady if they end up coming along, especially if Rosie is there. Ultimate girl crush π
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I love Origins, and all the items you've feature here! Better bet myself shopping soon π
http://www.makemeupmarie.com x
Haha definitely treat yourself π Thanks Marie!
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Love that two piece, you could also make other looks with them! The sunglasses are cool, now I need to watch The Hills too! I thought you were best buds with Rosie and David?
Leftbankgirl.blogspot.com
Exactly, that's what I love about it so much, so versatile π Haha well in my dreams I am!
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Really love your outfit and your sandals. Want to follow each other? Just let me know if you did so that I can follow you back too. Much love! β₯
http://sartorialwackoe.blogspot.com/
Thanks, glad you like it x
Love that two piece! You pull it off so well, and I completely know what you mean with wanting to travel already. Travel bloggers have the best life!
Angelina Is
Ah thanks so much lovely, so glad you think so π
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I love the co-ord set, it's so cute!
I'm so feeling the wanderlust at the mo. One of my friends has just moved to Dubai, I'm so jealous haha!
Rubi | Instagram | The Den | http://www.the-den.blogspot.com
Thanks lovely, it's so pretty isn't it. Oooh I love Dubai so much, I am beyond jealous π
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I LOVE the two-piece, it looks like the perfect summer outfit, it's so versatile! Might just have to go and get one myself! π
Heather Xx
100waysto30.co.uk
Thanks lovely, I'm such a huge fan too π Go and pick one up, they're the best!
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Great photos I love that co Ord xx
Glossy Boutique
Thanks so much Emma π
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Love the co-ord! I'd really like to get something similar in monochrome myself! I use the Origins Drink Up mask too, it's divine :)! x
Miss Imogen Smith
Oh isn't it lovely Imogen, it's my fave skincare product ever! I'm sure M&S probably have a monochrome one similar actually π
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I LOVE Rosie's line for M&S – yes, you're basically her bestie! π
The two piece is gorgeous and enjoy the sun while you can, we all know what British weather is like! :')
xoxo,
BerryBloomXO.com | Beauty & Lifestyle Blog ο»Ώ
also on BLOGLOVIN ο»Ώ
Haha well I am SO pleased to hear that lovely π So glad you liked the post!
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Gorgeous outfit, you look lovely! <3
I have a new post up on the blog, would love to know your thoughts:
* Electric Sunrise – Fashion and Lifestyle Blog *
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Thanks so much Helen π
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lovely post<3 followed you on bloglovin and gfc, stay in touch!
BLOG | BLOGLOVIN | LOOKBOOK
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Thank you so much Melisa π
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You look stunning, as always of course!. I am also LOVING those sunnies, I have the same pair, we have great taste π
xx -n
Naomi in Wonderland
Ahh thank you so much lovely, we certainly do have great taste don't we π
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Elle, you look so cute in those co-ords, gotta love M & S- what a great brand to collaborate with π And literally still laughing at that quote from 'The Hills'- I used to be addicted to that show as a teen
Rachel xx
http://www.thedailyluxe.net
Thanks so much hun, I was so happy to collaborate with them too π Wasn't the Hills the best? Lauren Conrad will always be my teen idol!
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I need to get my hand on a tangle teaser!x
Jess x
http://www.momentsofbeautywars.blogspot.co.uk
You definitely do Jessica, so amazing! π
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I love Drink Up and the Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask – both are definitely coming away with me! I love the sound of the Swim Cap too and your outfit is so cute! xx
Jasmine Talks Beauty
Both are amazing aren't they? I'm so impressed π
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I really like your two- pieces, it has great print and color and btw, I used to watch The Hills too, I was addicted to this tv show π
http://crafty-zone.blogspot.com
Thanks so much lovely, I'm such a fan. Oh me too, I couldn't stop watching π
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Really lovely outfit! I'd never think to look in M&S as they seem to target an older audience but I really like this two piece π I also didn't know that they had beauty/holiday essentials stuff haha :') Really lovely post and I also love how you did your June favourites video π xx
I was exactly the same Nevena but I've been so impressed by their ranges π Ah thank you so much, so glad you did!
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these are great holiday essentials! that two piece is sooo cute, and looks so comfy and perfect for wearing all day long on vacation! π
Metallic Paws
Thanks so much Izzy, totally agree π
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Great list of holiday essentials! Love that two piece outfit, perfect for summer. I hope you get some sunshine, our summer has been pretty rainy so far.
http://www.mintnotion.com
Thanks so much lovely π
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great post π have a nice Sunday:)
http://www.itsmetijana.blogspot.com/
Thanks Tijana π
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Great outfit love it.
http://www.itsallaboutsonia.com
Thanks so much π
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You look amazing dear!
http://helderschicplace.blogspot.com/2015/06/red-stripes-and-print.html
Thanks so much Helder π
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This two piece is so pretty – the light blue looks beautiful with the embroidered pattern and it looks lightweight, making it the perfect look for summer! π
Gabrielle | A Glass Of Ice
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Thanks so much Gabrielle, it's so lovely isn't it. I'm a huge fan π
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Ah that two piece is so gorgeous, I wish I'd popped into M&S when I was doing my holiday shopping! I loved this post Elle, you've made me want to buy so many new products!
I've had the James Reed Sleep Tan Mask sitting in my draw for ages now, I've been too scared to use it! You've convinced me to give it a go as I currently have a super white face and body! :')
Becki | beautyandthebrunette.co.uk
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Ah thanks so much Becki, I'm so pleased you liked it π Definitely give the face tan a go, it' so natural and easy to use!
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I got two bikini sets this year in M&S they go really nice and good quality! X
My post:
http://www.travelera.es/2015/04/under-water-red-sea.html?m=1
They're great aren't they? So glad you're a fan too π
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That matching set is lovely, but I also love those white sandals!
Eleventh & Sixteenth
Thanks lovely, me too π
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amazing blog post π
I have shared your post π
Jadiee'sLittleBlog
Jade
Thanks so much Jadie π
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Great coordinating outfit and those white sandals are cute, too!
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Amber
All the Cute
Todayβs Post: Cold-Shoulder Floral Romper
Thanks lovely, good old primark π
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I can't believe this bikini is from Primark! just so pretty!
Nati xx
http://www.simplyartdicted.com
Tell me about it, I was so pleasantly surprised. Thanks lovely π
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That two piece looks lovely on you. Such a fabulous colour, with gorgeous detailing. We've just got to keep praying for more sun!!! x
Thanks so much Gareth, so glad you think so π Yes, all the prayers!
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You're very welcome π x
This is a gorgeous look, so perfect for this amazing setting! Have a great week!
xo, Bry
Hold.On.To.Your.Hats.Naughty&Nice
Thanks so much lovely π
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that two piece is so lovely! I've got a suitcase filled with summer clothes for my trip the UK so let's hope the sun comes out over there! This week is going to be high 20's so hopefully it stays that way! Love the post Elle!
Georgia | The Weekend Attic – Personal Style, Beauty and Lifestyle
You look amazing, I love this two piece on you, so so pretty and of course you pull it off so well. I never look into M&S for clothes or beauty products but they've got some amazing brands don't they?! Hope you're feeling much better lovely and fingers crossed that you actually get to go away somewhere this year, you definitely deserve a holiday π x
Beauty with charm
lovely clothing pieces!:)
check out my blog + follow too?
wildvagabondss.blogspot.com
xo,
Jess β‘
I love your blog. Excellent lay out of essential assortments. I am envious of your sandals and gorgeous 2-piece set! You are very beautiful!
I'm blogging about similar things, check it out and let me know what you think: http://www.kellmenow.com
XO K