WARNING!! If you’re working from home, this blog post might make you spend money Believe me, it’s worth it. It’s no surprise that loungewear sales up 1,303% as lockdown changes consumer habits because, honestly, who wants to wear jeans when you’re working from home? Sheep wool socks and cashmere jumpers dominated my wardrobe until I found the Kuddly hoodie, and since then I’ve barely taken it off.

The Kuddly hoodie is an enormous 6XL hoodie made of thick soft material that I can quite literally climb into. The material is puffy, just like a quilt, except you can wear it around the house (without imitating Bridget Jones wrapped in her duvet clutching a tub of ice cream). It’s become my go-to when I’m lounging around the house, and here’s why (along with some reasons why you should get one, too!).

1. It’s super toasty

When I’m not writing blog posts, you’ll find me swimming in the ocean or on some kind of board. I’m in the water all year round, whatever the weather, and just wear a bikini 365 days of the year (unless I’m planning on training for a long time in the sea!). There’s no better feeling than walking across frosty seaweed and diving into cold water without a wetsuit. Once you’re over the initial shock, the water doesn’t actually feel cold – just refreshing. The coldness actually kicks in about 20 minutes after you get out, this is known as the after-drop.

I live extremely close to the beach, so I throw on a jumper and walk home as quickly as I can. As soon as I get through the door I throw on my Kuddly hoodie and hide under the weighted blanket. Having tried everything to warm up after sea swimming and beating the after-drop, this is by far the quickest way. It’s also the safest way to warm your body, as opposed to having a shower. Every cold water dipper should have this set up to come home to after being in the sea. It’ll remain a part of my routine even in the summer, after long sessions.

2. No-nonsense eco choice

When I’m looking for something cosy to wrap up for a lazy evening, the choice is simple. When we moved into our house last year, we upgraded a lot of the items in our house and went for a luxury, minimalist approach. Instead of having 10 mediocre blankets, we just have a couple of high-quality blankets that we use regularly. I donated lots of my loungewear that was taking up room in my wardrobe, and recycled a lot of our old blankets. This made room for the hoodie and weighted blanket, which is our go-to for a snuggly evening.

Both the hoodie and the weighted blanket are machine washable – which is super important if you intend to live in it, as I do. This might seem like a given, but it’s important to note that not all weighted blankets are equal. Although I opt for organic natural products wherever possible, rice and bean weighted blankets cannot be washed. For those eco-warriors out there, you’ll be glad to hear the Kuddly weighted blanket is made with ultra-silent glass balls, unlike some of its competitors that are full of plastic beads (yuck!).

3. It reduces stress (no, really!)

Past research has shown that deep pressure stimulation can help reduce autonomic arousal. This arousal is responsible for the symptoms of anxiety, such as increased heart rate. In the study above, the researchers found that using a weighted blanket reduced anxiety by roughly 33 percent. As somebody that struggles with anxiety, it felt like something I had to try to see if it could improve my mental well-being. If there’s something I could do to reduce my anxious symptoms without using drugs, I’d certainly want to give it a go!

The weighted blanket feels like a soothing hug when you’re relaxing on the sofa – or even when you’re in bed. The square stitching stops the glass beads from rolling to one end of the blanket, which was one of my concerns when I first thought about getting a weighted blanket. I began associating the weighted blanket with the post-swim glow and it was comforting to have the weight of the glass beads on my aching legs after a workout. If I try and switch back to a normal blanket now it doesn’t live up to the snuggle appeal of the weighted blanket!

Overall, it’s 5-stars from me. Will you buy a Kuddly hoodie and weighted blanket?

The post 3 Reasons I’m OBSESSED With My Kuddly Hoodie & Weighted Blanket appeared first on Strawberry Squeeze.

I usually love gifting people experiences, but it’s quite hard to do when everything is closed. I mean, sure, you can buy someone a gift voucher for a future experience day, but who knows when life will return to normal? Especially when it comes to things like travel and events.

If you’re stuck for gift ideas, then here are some ideas that might help (and there’s still plenty of time to get your order in online, if you’re unable to get to the shops). Here are 7 gift ideas that…

… contribute to wellbeing

Spas and salons have been closed for months, meaning people have had to get creative at home, doing DIY haircuts and experimenting with at-home beauty products. Believe me, I miss having my eyebrows waxed and shaped, but what I miss the most is the relaxation I’d get from a salon experience. Gifting luxury skincare, such as this gift set from Typology is a great way to bring the spa home and feel a little pampered, without stepping out your front door. The Typology range of minimalist products are completely made from natural products and are vegan, cruelty-free, and ethically sourced.

… are sustainable

According to a recent survey conducted by Nielsen, 81% of consumers say it’s extremely or very important for companies to implement programs to improve the environment. So giving the gift of sustainability is not only a safe bet, but you’re doing our planet a favour, too. Wildlife gifts, such as bug hotels, make great gifts for couples. Bug hotels offer a sanctuary to beneficial insects, especially pollinators, insect hotels are considered to be the urban solution to the declining population of beneficial insects in human environments due to habitat loss, pollution, and abuse of pesticides.

… add sparkle to 2020

When you spend a lot of time at home, you stop wearing things like sparkly earrings and cute necklaces (at least, I have). I don’t wear a huge amount of jewellery, except for my wedding ring. That said, I have a pretty great collection of watches, and I’m always appreciative of a new addition. I’m currently obsessed with these new watches from Nordgreen, they’re simple and classic, so it’s the perfect gift for anybody.

… support charities

Did you know, by 2050 there will be more plastic in the oceans than there are fish? This is a terrifying prospect, and it’s one of the reasons why I’m a plastic-free volunteer in association with Surfers Against Sewage for my local community. Some of the presents we’ve bought this year are made from ocean plastic supporting local not-for-profits. The more items the charity sells, the more they have to clean the beaches to make more products. So you’re not only giving money to charity, but you’re actively encouraging more beach cleans. Beautiful and genius!

… everyone will love

Whenever I leave the house now, I make sure I have my phone, keys, wallet, and mask. I have reusable masks dotted all over my house, in my car, and hidden in coat pockets. I still end up forgetting them though, and once this meant I had to buy a disposable facemask which felt like such a waste, financially and environmentally. Instead, I’ve started hiding them in my purse, so I purchased this large brown leather wallet from Trendhim. It’s gorgeous, high-quality, and fits my mask in! If this isn’t the perfect lockdown gift, then what is?

… support local

Thousands of businesses were negatively impacted as a result of COVID-19, especially those that were forced to close on the run-up to Christmas. There were so many small companies and freelancers that missed out on the government support too. Purchasing from these shops online, from websites such as Etsy or Facebook, supports your local community. I’m based in Cornwall and there are tons of Cornish gifts made from local driftwood and sea glass (such as these ones!). Honestly, I’m going to fill my house up with all of them if I’m not careful.

… make you feel special

During lockdown, it’s safe to say that jeans are a thing of the past. Everyone that is working from home is wearing sweatpants, and maybe a shirt if on a Zoom call (if you say otherwise, you’re lying!). Receiving a gift that gives you an excuse to dress up can give you a new lease of energy and motivation, which is honestly the best gift of all. I recently received the cutest outfit from Joe Browns and I can’t wear to wear it on a blustery walk. Lockdown won’t stop me from wearing boots and a full face of make-up!

The post 7 Lockdown Gifts For The People That Have Everything appeared first on Strawberry Squeeze.

For a lot of us, the months running up to Christmas are spent frantically searching for the latest and greatest presents to give, which means your Christmas day outfits are often neglected and left until the last minute.

If you are one of the many who have left the outfit ideas until the last minute then don’t panic, as this list of Christmas day outfit ideas will help inspire you and give a little direction.

Dressed Up

If you want to make this year’s festivities one to remember, then a formal outfit can make that a reality. If your plans are still standing and have not been affected changed with the latest Government announcement, then a formal outfit choice will steal the party this year. Think glam and sophistication when deciding on an outfit, a little black dress is always a winner, but why not go for something a little more standout this year with a sequinned number or consider using some vibrant accessories to make your outfit fitting for the festivities.

Casual

Sometimes this time of year calls for a chance to be a bit more casual in your approach to getting dressed. In any other year, you may have spent a good chunk of your time out of the house wearing a smart casual outfit or work uniform, but this year has been completely different, the pandemic resulted in lockdowns forcing us to stay indoors. You can take casually however you like it ranging from a relaxed outfit to a more formal casual look by dressing up or down with layers and accessories. In the unlikely chance, you are heading to a few places this year you can style your outfit differently throughout the day to suit your surroundings.

Comfortable

This time of year calls for one thing, and that’s being cosy in front of a fire sitting comfortably with your favourite festive tipples and Christmas specials of your favourite programmes. When choosing your festive comfies any old garments will not suffice, this time of year is special and calls for an outfit as grand as the day. If a lounging outfit is what you have in store this year then consider a personalised number from Banana Moon Clothing to make your holiday season even more special.

Festive

It wouldn’t be Christmas without an ugly Christmas sweater gracing the dinner table! If you want to liven up the holidays this year check out the huge range of Christmas sweaters available, with bands from all genres offering their own, and even cult films and TV series showing their festive spirit. This outfit will guarantee some festive fun, and if you want to introduce a little bit of healthy competition between your family members suggest a Christmas sweater competition.

The post Christmas Day Outfit Ideas: What To Wear For The Big Day This Year appeared first on Strawberry Squeeze.

Decluttering means it’ll be easier when we do move, and when we arrive in our fresh brand-new home, we will only be bringing items that serve us (not ‘stuff’ we’ve just accumulated over the years!). It’s a long process but I’ve been focusing on one challenge a day. That might be as simple as a drawer, or it might something a bit more time-consuming like decluttering my wardrobe…

How to be ruthless when decluttering your wardrobe

It’s hard to let go of things. I hate the feeling of waste, so that means sometimes I can end up hanging onto things ‘just in case’. But the more I declutter, the easier I find to let go of things. Decluttering your wardrobe can seem like SUCH a daunting job, but these tips have helped me make decisions on what should stay and what should go quickly and easily (without the guilt!).

1. Chuck anything with holes

Unless it’s something you can repair, bag up all of the clothes that have holes in, they don’t deserve a space in your wardrobe. I always found the really odd when I read that people recommend chucking out clothes with holes in. It felt like that was such an obvious thing to do, why are you wearing clothes that have holes in, in the first place? But the truth is, sometimes they sneak up on you and you don’t even realise you’ve been wearing Swiss-cheese clothes.

Sometimes it can be sad letting go of clothes because they’ve been damaged. Chances are, they’ve lived a good life and had a lot of use if you’ve managed to keep them long enough that they’ve started to show wear and tear. Hanging onto clothes because “it’s only a tiny hole” means you’ll probably end up avoiding it on certain occasions because it looks a bit rough. The idea is to have a wardrobe full of clothes that make you feel happy and confident.

Task 1: Check your clothes for damage and holes. If there’s a small repair you can do, do it! Otherwise, bag it up and let it go, giving you more space for things you love.

2. Focus on fit

When you look at your wardrobe, are there certain items of clothing that you completely avoid because it doesn’t fit? Maybe you ordered it online and forgot to return it (Oops!), or perhaps it used to fit but it doesn’t anymore. Whatever the reason, if something doesn’t fit, then you need to be honest with yourself and decide if it’s going to again. If you’ve just had a baby, then don’t go ditching your jeans. But if you own a cashmere top that’s been in the tumble dryer and now you can barely move your arms when you’re wearing it, it’s time to let it go.

This one can be a little tricky because weight can sometimes fluctuate. If your weight changes a lot then instead, you might want to consider bagging up some items from your wardrobe that don’t currently fit and popping it in the loft room. That way, you’ll have more space physically and mentally when you look at your wardrobe in the morning. This is also a great way to realise if you’re really missing items that have been hiding away in your attic for a couple of months.

Task #2: Say goodbye to all the items that don’t fit you. If it’s too tight in certain areas or it’s too baggy for you, consider if you’ll really wear it again. If not, let it go.

3. Choose your style

Knowing what colours and styles suit you is a piece-of-cake but resisting buying something that will probably just end up sitting in your wardrobe isn’t so easy. Personally, I know what colours I feel confident in, they’re typically dark shades and earthy tones. My style is quite neutral and I’m not a fan of bright colours. Generally, I don’t feel very confident in light colours and I don’t like having my shoulders out, and I tend to opt for high-waisted shorts, shirts or trousers.

This didn’t stop me buying pink dresses and brightly coloured jumpers. I never really ended up wearing them much in comparison to the colours I knew suited me. It was very rare the bright items of clothing would make an appearance, and even then, I didn’t feel very confident in it. So why did I own it? It just ended up getting squished further back on my wardrobe rail. Now, I try and think before I buy an item “Realistically, how often am I going to wear this?”

Task #3: Ditch all items that don’t make you feel confident, whether it’s the style or the colour. if it doesn’t serve you and you have better alternatives, it’s time to let it go.

4. Consider your lifestyle

There’s been a champagne satin dress that I’ve been eyeing up for years (no exaggeration!), it’s not very expensive, but I know I’ll never wear it. It’s a little too light to wear to a wedding, and when I go to formal events they’re usually black-tie so the champagne colour might be a little bit too full-on. There might be a one-off occasion I could find a time to wear it but in all honesty, in the whole time I’ve wanted this dress, this event hasn’t appeared.

As much as you might fall in love with a maxi sequin dress or a vibrant mini dress, if your lifestyle means you’ll probably never wear it, then don’t waste your space or money on it. Again, I’m not saying don’t have diversity in your wardrobe, but consider how many formal dresses you need, if you don’t find yourself at black-tie events on the regular. Instead, try buying pieces that you can wear over and over again at different types of events by styling with shoes and jewellery.

Task #4: Layout all your formal wear and decide which items you might wear again. Consider weddings, funerals and birthday lunches. Pick some favourites and let the rest go.

What to do with bags of old clothes

Just because you’re decluttering, doesn’t mean you have to just chuck your clothes away. I’m a big fan of recycling and reusing, so I’m always trying to think creatively on how I can repurpose items that I no longer need. Here are some ideas on how you can be more friendly to the environment and give you clothes a new lease of life, whilst decluttering:

• Donate to a charity shop – You might need to pop them in a bin bag and keep it in the loft in the meantime but after lockdown, you can drop them at your nearest store.

• Offer them to people making their own face masks – Post on your local Facebook group and see if you can offer old clothes so people can repurpose them into face masks.

• Give them to friends – There are some pieces of clothing that I absolutely love but they just don’t fit me anymore. Consider a clothes swap with some friends.

• Turn your old tops into rags – I can’t remember the last time I bought cleaning cloths. Cut up old tops that had no life left in them and use them for your house and car.

We’re extending our decluttering beyond our wardrobe, as we prepare for a house move later this year. This means I’m going through each drawer, cupboard and storage box and being ruthless in clearing out items that don’t serve me anymore. When we went travelling around Europe in our van a couple of years ago, I learnt that you really need less than you think. It makes me feel so much lighter having fewer things to worry about and living more minimal.

If you’re planning on doing the same, you might benefit from a waste removal company like Any Junk. They’re a nationwide rubbish removal company who divert 96% of waste collected from landfill, so you’ll be doing your fit for the environment, too! You can read more about where everything ends up and how it works in their online guide.

Tips for maintaining a clutter-free wardrobe

When you go to your wardrobe are there any particular pieces you always grab? Perhaps it’s stripes and patterns or maybe it’s a particular material. Whatever it is, try and be mindful of what items of clothing you love and why. What makes them so special? It is because they’re comfortable, because they’re flattering or because you can pair them with lots of different items of clothing in your wardrobe to get a new look?

There are some items of clothing in my wardrobe I’ve had since 2012 and I still wear them regularly. Investing in good-quality clothing that will last is way better for your bank balance AND better for the environment. Especially as fast-fashion is known for being full of little bits of plastic which end up going into our oceans when going through your washing machine.

What are your tips for reducing your fashion consumption and living a minimalist lifestyle?

The post How To Declutter Your Wardrobe (AND Be Kind To The Environment!) appeared first on Strawberry Squeeze.

I recently went to London with my friends and started doing some Christmas shopping. Finding gifts for friends and family is hard. What on earth do you buy someone that has everything? I have a rule that I try and follow when buying gifts “don’t give them something they need, give them something they want”.

If that still doesn’t help you, here are some ideas:

1. Sheepskin slippers

Slippers are a classic Christmas gift. I was recently gifted a pair of women’s sheepskin slippers from Celtic & Co and I’m literally obsessed with them. We have a cold tiled kitchen and wooden floors in our lounge, and although I wouldn’t have it any other way, it does mean I get cold feet. I used to buy cheap slippers and if I’m honest, they never last much longer than a couple of weeks because they lose their shape so quickly. These ethical moccasin-style slippers made in Cornwall are so well-made I’m confident I won’t have that issue. They’re ridiculously comfy and I never want to take them off. Never underestimate a good pair of slippers.

2. Beauty elixir

Skincare is one of those things that you either love or you see as a chore. Personally, I’m a big fan of trying new skincare products so I’d always welcome any gifts like this. That said, it especially makes a great gift for those that don’t usually invest in expensive skincare, as it’s a little treat that they wouldn’t usually spend money on but it’s nice to indulge in. The Beauty Sleep Elixir is the perfect treat for those that struggle with dry skin (which a lot of us do during the winter months!) Since both Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle swear by it, the 14 natural oil product has become gold dust…

3. Christmas themed gifts

Looking for a gift for somebody that has everything? One thing I’ve started looking at is Christmas themed gifts. Christmas decorations, crockery and glasses that only come out during the festive season. These gifts end up staying in the family for years, sometimes even generations, as they only come out for a few weeks of the year. Growing up I remember particularly Christmas jars and mugs that would only come out when we put up the decorations, and there was something really special about that. That’s why I’ve started gifting Christmas decorations and bits and pieces for family members I really struggle to buy for. I’m loving the adorable Christmas range from Sara Miller London, especially the Christmas goose jar (how adorable!?).

4. Photobook

We’re so lucky that we can be snap-happy without any limitations. Over the years I’ve built libraries full of photos from key milestones in my life and I’ll treasure them forever. The only problem is, most of the photographs we own end up sitting in a folder on our computer somewhere. In 2017 we got engaged at the top of a mountain and earlier this year we got married. These were the two happiest days of my life and we got some amazing photographs. It seems such a shame for them to hide on a computer so instead, we had them made into photobooks. It feels so special holding these albums in our hands, and they’re so affordable, too.

5. Luxury scented candle

Skip Yankee candles and other brands you’ll find on most high-streets. Instead, opt for a truly luxurious candle from Jo Malone or The White Company. Granted, these candles cost a little bit more than what you’d probably usually spend but the fragrance is much stronger and far more interesting. One of my favourite candles from The White Company is the Winter Signature candle. Having owned a few different candles from their collection, I know they have a very long burn-time. All their products are made from high-quality ingredients which won’t give you a headache – unlike cheap alternatives. These candles are the perfect way to add a touch of class when giving gifts!

6. Jewellery

A carefully chosen piece of jewellery continues to surprise and move people on Christmas day. I recently came across Daisy London and I’m OBSESSED  Anybody that knows me personally will know that I rarely wear silver and I’m a big fan of gold jewellery. Sometimes it can be tricky to find contemporary beautiful gold jewellery but Daisy London really knocks it out the park. My Christmas list of full of rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces from their website. There’s something suitable for all budgets and each collection has a unique style. Not to mention their packaging is really something special.

Best of luck with your Christmas shopping!

The post Christmas Gift Guide 2019: Gifts For Someone That Has Everything  appeared first on Strawberry Squeeze.

Grey Chloé Lauren Suede Scallop Ballet Flats £325 + £10 shipping from Lyst 

Ballet Flats

Our number one pick has to be the ballet flats, and here’s why. Firstly, ballet flats are extremely comfortable, making them the perfect shoes for the workplace, especially if your job requires a lot of walking. Secondly, ballet flats look good with almost any formal outfit, so you don’t have to bang your head every morning while deciding what shoes to put on. Finally, ballet flats can easily fit in almost any bag, as long as it’s not a mini bag, so even if you wear heels, the ballet flats can be a lifesaver in certain situations. Simply, black ballet flats like these will bring you extreme comfort as well as style, so check them out and see for yourself.

Neutral Heels

Neutral heels, nude pumps, or also known as beige pumps complement almost all professional attire. Not only do these shoes look super-professional, but they make your legs look amazing as well. Truly, nude heels elongate your legs making them seem longer than they actually are. In fact, the closer to your skin tone the shoes are, the longer they’ll make your legs seem. Also, they can be combined with any colour palette making you look sharp and sophisticated.

Gianvito Rossi Roma 105 Leather Pumps £495 from Harvey Nichols.

Loafers

Having a pair of comfy loafers in your shoe collection is a must. Traditionally laid-back shoes, loafers are now worn everywhere, especially in the workplace by both men and women. On days when heels are the last thing you want to put on your feet, a nice pair of loafers is always good to have as a backup. Loafers will make your professional outfit look more polished; just make sure that you don’t get slip-on since they are not the most office-appropriate style.

Ankle Boots

Comfy and warm, ankle boots are definitely work-appropriate, especially during the colder months of the year. Ankle boots, particularly if on heels, look amazing when combined with a pencil skirt or a power suit, giving you the fierceness and edginess you need for the corporate world. Check out these ankle boots and see if you can find the ones most suitable for your workplace.

Gucci Jordaan leather loafer Save for Later £540 from Gucci

Classic Black Pumps

We cannot think of other shoes that are as timeless as the classic black pumps, especially for the workplace. Discreet yet sophisticated, these shoes should be in the go-to work shoe collection of every woman. These classics will add an elegant touch to your professional outfit making you look sleek and classy both in and out of the office. You can wear literally any formal outfit with the classic black pumps, but make sure that the ones you choose to wear are comfortable enough for the 8-hour work day.

Open Toe Booties

A smart office look doesn’t have to be created with the above-mentioned classics. Open toe booties are the type of shoes that look professional enough for the workplace but also give you a bit of sass and edge by showing a tiny bit of skin in a sophisticated manner. These shoes don’t have to be a taboo just because they provide a bit more edge than the other ones; unless, as we already mentioned, your dress-code rules are very strict. But, if that’s not the case, go for open toe booties and you’ll see how versatile and appropriate these shoes can be not only for the workplace but other environments as well.

Steve Madden Carnabi Leather Peep-Toe Bootie

Polished Sandals

If your workplace is not overly formal or has a very strict dress code, a pair of polished sandals is the pair you should be wearing at the office, especially if it’s hot outside and you don’t want to hide your feet. During the hottest months, it’s hard for women to commute and be at the office for 8 hours while covered from head to toe. Some formal outfits allow for a bit of skin to be shown, but what about shoes? Polished and dressy sandals should not be a problem for the workplace and are not at most places. Heel sandals look even more formal and classy, just make sure they don’t look like they could be worn to prom as well.

As you can see, the classics like flats or heels are not the only work-appropriate footwear. There are many shoe styles that you can choose from, so be creative and upgrade your shoe collection with some great styles that can be worn from work to weekend.

The post 7 Pairs Of Shoes Suitable For Work (that I’m Totally Obsessed With!) appeared first on Strawberry Squeeze.