I did a similar post after fashion week in January and loved having everything in one place, so along with my Copenhagen fashion week trends post, this feels like a nice way to recap the week and officially sign off on CPHFW for another season.

Sunday

I actually arrived on Sunday evening. I always plan to get to Copenhagen a couple of days before fashion week starts so I can spend some time doing the things I really want to do in the city: drink coffee, eat great food and shop, as well as get ahead on some of the campaigns I need to shoot.

But alas, my Type B personality struck again and I left it until the last minute to book my flights, so things just didn’t quite line up. I’d also really wanted Shaun and Cas to come with me this season, but again, I left organising it all a little too late. Next season I will make it happen!

I landed in the late afternoon and, after 45 minutes in the passport queue (they really make us pay for leaving the EU, fair enough tbh), I grabbed my bags and headed straight to the hotel. I stayed at 1 Hotel Copenhagen* this year and it was the best fashion week stay. It’s super central, the service was great, the rooms are beautiful with lots of lovely neutral backdrops for shooting, and the breakfast was incredible. I can definitely see it becoming my Copenhagen fashion week base going forward. *press stay

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Colour is always strong at CPHFW, but with the likes of By Malene Birger and ALMADA joining the schedule this season, alongside brands like The Garment, there was also a focus on more refined wardrobe staples which i think added a really nice point of difference from previous seasons.

Copenhagen also continues to set itself apart through its fairly strict sustainability requirements for brands on the official schedule, which by definition means its less about trends and more about creating quality that lasts, making the conversation around what’s next feel more considered than simply chasing novelty trends.

So, with that in mind, here are five styling ideas that stood out most to me and the ones I feel like I could easily incorporate into my own dressing.

1. Hello, Yellow

Yellow was one of the colours that stood out to me most throughout the week, and in more shades than just the butter yellow we’ve been seeing everywhere recently.

There were softer, creamy shades, but also brighter and more saturated versions that felt quite standout. At OperaSport, yellow worked particularly well within the brand’s clean, sporty aesthetic. SKALL played with both softer tones and more vibrant hues across clothing and accessories, while The Garment also introduced a really beautiful creamy pale yellow pallette.

Despite its reputation for being quite difficult to wear, yellow is surprisingly versatile. Pale shades look so good worn with white, grey, brown and denim, while brighter versions feel really summery and vibrant. I especially loved seeing it used through accessories at SKALL, spot the bright yellow KEENs adding a playful pop of colour.

I already love the butter yellow colour trend, so I’m very happy to see it sticking around.

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2. Fringe Benefits

Fringing was one of the clearest decorative details to come through in the shows I saw, particularly at By Malene Birger and OperaSport and I absolutely loved the way it looked.

At By Malene Birger, the trend was worked into pieces that still felt really polished, for example I was obsessed with the black crochet skirt over trousers… so chic and cool. I also loved the cumberbun with fringing detail that added some playful movement to quite a safe look, and the cropped trench jacket with fringing at the hem which was quite unexpected but I loved it.

OperaSport used fringed scarf detailing to add interest to otherwise quite pared-back silhouettes which felt easy to imagine wearing in real life. I liked the way the fringing became part of the shape of the outfit, adding movement and texture without making the look feel too dressed up.

3. Soft Draping

If fringing is all about movement, then draping is all about shape.

The Garment SS27 collection, The Tourist, was inspired by slow travel, Mediterranean summers and the idea of a wardrobe collected over time, which came through in the fluid tailoring, silk layering and soft fabrics used throughout.

I saw a similar vibe at By Malene Birger where fluid fabrics created movement without making the clothes feel overly formal. The SS27 collection, titled Halcyon, follows the arc of a day, and the balance between structured and polished pieces and something softer, looser, and more fluid.

I loved the floor skimming dresses that just skim the body in a really elegant way and you can imagine wearing with barely-there sandals and very little else. Whilst asymmetric layering and vertical slits gave otherwise simple silhouettes some really gorgeous movement.

The introduction of more draped silk fabrics felt bit new and different for By Malene Birger and I liked it a lot.

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4. Allotment Chic

SKALL may have given us one of my personal favourite micro-trends of the entire week: dressing like you have a very chic allotment to tend to… sign me up!

As always, the collection had a wholesome, lived-in quality Skall does so well, loose cotton dresses, easy layers and practical shapes, its relaxed but still feminine. And like always, the pieces are all incredibly wearable as they focus on being functional to fit into your everyday life, but with boho, romantic details that make them special to wear.

Set in a garden near the water, the collection is inspired by the 1969 French film, La Piscine, and also the museum of the same name in Roubaix. Together, the references captured the spirit of the season: timeless treasures, a bohemian sensibility, and that balance between the everyday and the artful.

I love the way Julie and Marie create clothes that women actually want to wear, this is my four or fifth SKALL show aand the collections always feel like a continuation of one another, in that nothing ever feels off-brand or out of place. There’s such a clear point of view, which I think is a real testament to the care and thought that goes into creating each collection.

Even the casting and styling of the show reflected that with the models all being Danish locals who are friends of the brand, the shoes are all vegan, and many of the hats came from the designers’ own personal collections - all incredibly authentic to the world of Skall.

5. Lace Gets an Edge

The final trend I wanted to pull out was the abundance of lace, delicate fabrics and more romantic detailing. I noticed it especially at The Garment, which was one of my favourite shows of the week, I noticed lots of lace-trimming, silk fabrics and sheer embroidery which all felt kinda heirloom in quality.

The collection was inspired by travel and what the designer described as the “romance of slow journeys”, with pieces designed to be kept, worn and treasured for years. If your style leans more casual, like mine, lace can sometimes be a little tricky to wear without it feeling too dressy or overtly feminine. This collection really nailed that juxtaposition, pairing lace with tailored pieces, cropped proportions and nightwear-as-daywear styling in a way that had me thinking; yes I could definitely see myself wearing these looks in real life.

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1. Travel Outfit

We had a pretty early flight, and it was hot in London when we left and due to be hot when we arrived, so I wore these great Hush trousers. I love the drawstring at the ankle so you can wear them two ways, and they're very lightweight so perfect for travel — unlike linen, they don't crease, so perfect for sitting for long periods and not looking totally dishevelled. I just wore them with a vest top and a sweatshirt around my waist for an added layer for the plane, or anywhere with too much aircon.

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2.Lago di Carezza Outfit

I didn't want to buy lots of new things for this trip, especially stuff I wouldn't wear again, but to be honest I don't have a lot of workout wear that isn't plain black leggings, so I wanted to grab a couple of new pairs of shorts for this trip which I could also wear back in London. Eme Studios had just sent me this great long sleeve too, which was perfect for the hike. I did invest in some Salomons, which have been on my list for a while, I got this pair basically brand new off Vinted and I love them. They'll be great for being home in Northumberland too, where we tend to do a lot of walking.

3. Adolf Munkel Trail Outfit

Planet Nusa is a new brand discovery for me and I love their stuff, I borrowed this Catch Me1 Waistcoat from Hollie for the Adolf Munkel trail we did on day two. I think technically it's for running, but as it's super lightweight it's perfect for hiking too, when you don't need to be carrying a lot. There's a zip pocket at the front which fits my phone, and a zip at the back which fit my film camera and some snacks.

I also invested in a pair of KEEN Jasper Zionic trainers; they're super lightweight and comfortable with good grip, and they come with black laces too, which I prefer to the pink. I also ordered this pair, which I loved but really couldn’t keep more than one, and the collaboration between KEEN and SKALL is very good.

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4. Evening outfits

I packed a couple of easy dinner outfits. I'd just been sent this lovely linen dress from Whistles, which was the dressier option of the two, worn with a scarf as a belt to add a bit of interest, slouchy brown bag and simple heeled sandals, it felt like the right amount for the hotel vibe.

Then for the final night, I wore lace shorts with a long sleeve top and heels. This is one of my favourite ways to wear lace shorts, I'm naturally quite a casual dresser, and I like the juxtaposition between the dressier, more feminine shorts and a boyish, more casual top.

5. Hiking Outfit Inspo

Since this was my first proper hiking trip, I did a fair bit of scrolling before we left, pulling together some outfits that felt like me and would work for the type of hikes we did. A few of my favourites, in case you're planning your own trip and don't know where to start either.

That’s everything I packed, worn and re-worn over our three day trip. If you missed it, you can read the full itinerary, where we stayed, hiked and ate, over on my previous post, The Dolomites in Summer.

Just touched down after the most incredible three days in the Dolomites, and I couldn’t wait to share it with you. This region has been sitting at the top of my travel wish list for years, and while it’s beautiful in every season, it was the summer alpine experience I was craving.

I wanted to plan a girls’ trip that was all about slowing down for a few days. Some hiking, fresh mountain air, good food, proper sleep and a little reset from everyday life. It ended up being exactly that, and somehow even better than I’d imagined.

One thing that really surprised me was just how restorative the Dolomites feel in summer. I’d always associated the region with serious skiing holidays and steep, slightly intimidating hikes, but it couldn’t have felt further from that. Yes, the scenery is dramatic, but there’s also something incredibly gentle and accessible about it. It feels like the kind of place that’s perfect for everyone. Whether you’re into more adventurous activities or simply want long lunches in mountain huts, afternoons by the pool, early nights and endless fresh air, there’s something for every pace. It ended up being exactly the reset I’d been craving.

I was joined by Hollie Mercedes, India Cardona and Polly Newman, and they really were the perfect pals to experience it all with. We've all known each other for years through this industry, and the trip ended up being such a lovely mix of hiking, wellness, good food, a bit of content and a lot of nattering along the way.

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So here’s a little holiday debrief: what I wore, my thoughts on both hotels, and everything we learnt from spending ten hours on a train with a toddler.

The Marbella Club

Our first stop in Spain was Marbella Club, a hotel I’d wanted to visit for years and one we were kindly invited to stay at. We spent two nights here before heading further along the coast, and it couldn’t have been a better place to ease into Spanish holiday mode.

It’s one of those hotels that has a real sense of history without ever feeling stuffy. The gardens are beautiful, everything feels incredibly established and there’s this relaxed elegance that’s difficult to explain until you’re there. Rather than feeling like a resort, it feels more like wandering around an incredibly beautiful Andalusian village by the sea.

The Packing… As we knew we’d be moving on so quickly, we only unpacked one suitcase during our stay, leaving everything else packed for the next leg of the journey. The result was a great linen set, a DÔEN blouse with amazing poplin trousers from Lucy’s collecton with WNU, a black mini dress that worked from day through to dinner, and a gorgeous St Agni dress which i’d been eager to wear and it was the perfect slightly dressier option for the evenings.

The Reading.. I read four books on this trip, the first being The Nightingale. Set in Nazi-occupied France during the Second World War, it tells the story of two sisters taking very different paths to survive the occupation. Inspired by the real-life exploits of Belgian resistance heroine Andrée de Jongh, it's one of those books that stays with you long after you've finished it. Reading it now, at a time when conflict and division continue to shape so much of the world around us, felt particularly poignant. More than anything, it's a remarkable story of female courage, resilience and hope.

The Food… was definitely one of the highlights of our stay. Every restaurant was excellent, but our favourite had to be MC Beach, the hotel’s chiringuito right on the sand. We started with sardines (quite possibly the best I’ve ever had, and I’ve eaten a lot over the years..) before sharing an amazing seafood paella. Cas napped for two-hour in his pushchair, so we were actually able to enjoy a long, leisurely lunch, which felt like such a treat.

I also loved that every restaurant had a dedicated children’s menu with tasty and wholesome food. Cas was obsessed with the chicken and rice soup, but there were also simple options like pasta with tomato sauce alongside healthier choices, which made eating out with him really easy.

The Room.. we stayed in a Garden Suite, which had a separate living room and two balconies. It worked perfectly for us as we could use the living room as Cas’s bedroom. He always sleeps better in his own space, so having that separation was a real plus. The suite itself was spacious and comfortable. If I had one criticism of the hotel, it would be that the room interiors felt a little dated, they’re in keeping with the hotel’s classic style, but it’s probably the one area I think could do with a refresh.

For Families.. I’d heard Marbella Club was really family friendly, and it absolutely lived up to that. It’s a place where children are welcomed, but it never felt like a hotel built entirely around families. There were plenty of children around, but it still retained that relaxed, grown-up atmosphere.

One thing I did notice was that Marbella Club seemed to attract families with slightly older children, whereas OKU had more babies and toddlers. We didn't end up using the kids' club as Cas was more than happy on the beach or by the pool, but we walked past it a few times and it looked fantastic. There are also two family-friendly pools, as well as a separate adults-only pool and an indoor spa pool, so it never felt crowded or like you had to compromise if you were travelling with children.

OKU Andalucia

Just over a week later, after spending some time at my Dad’s house, we headed to our second hotel of the trip, OKU Andalucía, where we were also kindly invited to stay in exchange for content.

Having experienced Marbella Club first, it was impossible not to compare the two, but they’re completely different. Where Marbella Club feels timeless and steeped in history, OKU is modern, minimalist and incredibly design-led. Every corner feels thoughtfully curated, with natural materials, earthy tones and beautiful architecture that blends seamlessly into the landscape.

The Packing… As my dad’s house is only a 10-minute drive from OKU, we kept things simple and just packed an overnight bag. I’d ordered a Lido swimsuit to be delivered to Spain, it had been on my wishlist for ages, so I was very happy to finally get my hands on it. It ended up being one of my favourite purchases of the trip. The fit is so good, with thinner straps and a square neckline are really flattering. Now I need it in another colour.

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I also bought this Faithfull broderie anglais top and trouser set, which I practically lived in. I wore it together as a set, but both pieces worked just as well styled separately, making it a holiday purchases that more than earned it’s cost-per-wear.

The Reading.. the next book I picked up was Atmosphere, which I really enjoyed. I liked the way it was written, opening at the end before taking you back through the story. Set in the early 1980s, it follows two trailblazing women who become part of NASA’s Space Shuttle programme at a time when glass ceilings were thick and societal expectations even thicker. It’s as much about ambition, sacrifice and self-discovery as it is about space exploration.

The only other Taylor Jenkins Reid novel I’d read was The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, and I actually preferred Atmosphere. I found it a really gripping read and was genuinely invested in the story throughout. The ending felt satisfying too without feeling overly predictable.

The Room.. We stayed in one of the Roof Terrace Sea View Rooms, which had gorgeous views of the coast and a large private terrace with a seating area and sun loungers. I always love the interiors at OKU, just really minimal, warm and bohemian without feeling overdone. We didn't have Cas with us for this part of the trip as my parents were babysitting him, so it was the perfect room for a couple. If you're travelling as a family, though, they also have a great selection of larger suites with separate living areas and multiple bedrooms, so there's plenty of flexibility depending on who you're travelling with.

For Families.. OKU Andalucía has such a great set-up for younger children. Cas came to join us for the afternoon, and as well are the three pools in the main area, theres a separate splash pool just below that’s perfect for little ones. One of my favourite touches was the shelf stocked with Liewood beach and pool toys, including floats, armbands and swim vests. It was honestly one of the best set-ups I’ve seen for young children at a luxury hotel like this.

There were lots of families with babies and toddlers during our stay, but just as many couples and groups of friends, so it never felt like a family resort. Like Marbella Club, it struck a really nice balance between being genuinely welcoming to children while still feeling calm and luxurious. There’s also the beach club, just a short walk down from the hotel, which has its own adults-only pool overlooking the sea. The beach is right there too, so whether you’re travelling with children or not, it felt like there’s was plenty of space for everyone.

The remainder of our time was spent very much chilling at my Dads place where i devoured another great book; Heart the Lover. This was my first time reading anything by Lily King and I really enjoyed it, she writes about realtionships so well and the fact that it’s semi autobiographical shook me when i found out. It explores the love triangle between the narrator and two best friends she meets at university, before following them across three decades of love, friendship, regret and unresolved loss. It's raw, tender and incredibly honest, and one of those books that stays with you after you've finished it.

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The Train Journey... For anyone wondering how we survived the 10-hour train journey from France to Spain, I put together a timestamped video of the whole day here. In reality, it was lots of snacks, plenty of tag-teaming, and an endless rotation of small toys and walking up and down the carriage that made it just about do-able.

We were also really lucky that the Renfe train to Madrid has a surprisingly spacious café carriage with no seats. As Cas now only really naps in his cot or pushchair (gone are the days of him happily sleeping on one of us..), this was an absolute lifesaver. We gave him a bottle, pulled the snooze shade over the pushchair and the rocking of the train sent him to sleep. He ended up napping for an hour and 45 minutes, which made the journey feel so much more manageable.

I've decided my motto for travelling with a toddler is this: anything is doable as long as you have plenty of snacks, they have a decent nap... and you always have back-up milk.

I often put a question box on Instagram and never quite get round to answering everything properly, some questions need a longer, more thought-out reply than a story allows, and sometimes I want to add multiple links, which Instagram stories don’t allow. So I thought I'd start a new series on here where I can actually do them justice. I've always loved reading this kind of thing from other people, so here's my own version.

This one covers a bit of everything; pilates, holidays, house moves, packing formulas and everything in between. Let's get into it:

Which strapless bra do you wear?

When spring/summer hits I feel like I get asked this question a lot, i can’t really do a no bra situation (unless its something quite fitted) so i do wear strapless bras with summery tops more often than not. My favourites are from Wacoal and I’ve been wearing them for the past few years, they’re the only one I’ve found that actually stays up without me spending the whole day doing that subtle hitch-up manoeuvre.

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What’s your workout routine?

A few months after having Cas I started working out with Bianca she’s an amazing online PT who has helped me regain my strength and fitness post-natally. We do a weekly sessions focussing on full-body strength training to rebuild my core and pelvic floor using a combination of weights, bands and bodyweight exercise. She’s got me back to my pre-baby body in terms of dress size but has also helped me so much in improving my fitness and toning my body.

She has actually given me an amazing discount code for you on her personalised coaching plans. B creates a tailored workout plan based on your body, goals and lifestyle (home based/post natal etc.) and also includes structured meal plans to support nutrition. You get regular check-ins and ongoing support throughout so it can be adjusted to your progress. Use code FRAN15 for 15% off your first month, just enter the code on her website or dm her directly for any questions.

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Who are you doing your pilates training with?

I’ve been doing reformer pilates for years but stopped in my last trimester and the newborn days as there just wasn’t the time. I’ve been back at it consistently for a few months now, at least once a week at Reformer Collective in Balham. I usually do the dynamic pilates class which I love, it’s a more high intensity version which I like because it gives me more of a workout. Lisa’s sessions are my favourite.

Ideally I’d like to add a second session in each week, probably something that focuses a bit more on form. I used to go to Mojo in Clapham which I liked and if you’re looking for something you can do at home I love Bryony Deery and Fluidform. I also like 1Rebel for a more high intensity version.

I book via classpass, use my link for 20 bonus credits and a 14 day trial

Toddler-friendly holiday plans? I need some inspo that doesn’t involve all-inclusive hell.

Oh I really feel you with this one. It’s one of those things you tell yourself you’ll never do, then you have kids and suddenly you completely understand the appeal of having activities laid on. But I do think you can get the best of both, somewhere that works for small ones without feeling like you’ve sacrificed everything nice for yourself.

I’m actually going to two hotels in June that I think nail exactly that. Both are beautiful, both are genuinely toddler friendly :

I'll do a full review once we're back, but first up is the Marbella Club Hotel. Everything I've read and heard suggests it strikes that balance of being genuinely family friendly without sacrificing the things that make a holiday feel like a holiday; good service, beautiful setting, a spa and nice restaurants. There's a kids club from age four, but you can take your baby as long as an adult stays with them, plus a kids pool and family activities alongside an adults only pool. It looks like it ticks every box but as I say i’ll report back.

And secondly, OKU Andalusia, which is actually OKU's first ever family-focused property. The whole aesthetic of OKU is that barefoot boho-luxury, I’ve visited OKU Ibiza and it’s really lovely. For little ones there's one-to-one babysitting for under twos, a kids club from age 2 upwards with a proper activity programme, and a children's pool. Its also complimentary with the stay and you dont need to pre-book, i’ve read online that parents can also stay and play so i’m going to see if we can take Cas for a play even though he’s only 18 months. For you there's a spa, multiple pools and three restaurants. Again, full review to come.

Peligoni in Zakynthos is one I've had on my radar for a while and I'm hoping to get there in the autumn, if not next summer. The concept is really clever, you stay in a private villa but have access to The Club, so you get the privacy of a villa holiday without sacrificing the facilities. The crèche runs from four months, 9am to 6pm every day throughout the season, with qualified nannies, which is honestly wild in the best possible way. There's also evening babysitting, watersports, restaurants, the lot. Everything I've seen suggests it's genuinely chic without being the kind of place that makes you feel like your toddler is an inconvenience. It's top of the list.

Sonnweis in the Dolomites is one I only came across recently, I've got a work trip to a different hotel in the Dolomites coming up which is probably how it ended up on my radar. It's a luxury family wellness hotel with its own organic farm, which already sounds dreamy. What really got me though is the childcare: there are onsite daily childminders for babies from four months, included in the overnight price, plus 70 hours of activities for older kids, farm days, forest adventures, that kind of thing. Haven't been yet but it's firmly on the list.

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Travel toys for 18 month olds?

We have a long travel day coming up next week, mostly on the train with our (just about to turn) 18 month old, so I asked you lot for recommendations to keep him entertained. The criteria were: small enough to pack easily and not messy, given we'll be on a train. Here's what you suggested and some notes on what i’ve got him:

• Sticker books — we got him a bubble sticker book as they’re easier for little hands to peel and they’re reusable

• Busy books — a lot of people recommended these, we actually have two and he really likes them, I also got him a busy board because he loves a switch and these busy cubes are really good too and very travel size

• Play doh — a few people said play doh but that seems far too messy on a train for an 18 month old so i’ve given that a miss

• LED Magic Drawing Board - a few friends suggested these too, a great idea as he isn’t that into colouring yet and these feel lower maintenance

• Travel magnetic tiles — I think the Magna-Tiles are for slightly older (age recommendation is 3+) but I know my friends with older kids love them and the travel set is a real winner

• Water books and mess-free colouring — we got him one of these, again he hasn’t shown a huge interest in colouring yet so feel like this is a great intro into it as its mess-free

• Spinning snack holder - snacks are an imperative item and someone recommended these which are a fun way to enterain them

• Liewood Solene Puzzle Ball - I also got Cas these, he loves a little fidget/puzzle toy and these look good

Where are your striped shorts from?

Lots of you asking for the link to the shorts I was wearing in the Q&A story, they’re from & Other Stories and are really excellent, i got a size small which fit me well (typically a size UK 10).

When’s your next sale?

We just did one a week ago but it was over the bank holiday weekend and I know a lot of people were away so we are going to do an extra after work sale on the 25th June, 6-8pm. It’ll be 677 Fulham Road, add to your diary!

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What is the latest on your house move?

Still waiting on an exchange and completion date, we had our offer accepted back in February but it's moved slowly, mostly due to a long wait for searches plus a couple of things on the sellers end. Fingers crossed we should be completing within the next month or so though.

That said, we won't be moving in straight away. The house needs a lot of work so the plan is to stay where we are while we do it up, which we are lucky enough to be able to do as the idea of living on a building site with a toddler sounds like absolute hell.

What were your criteria when house hunting?

We’d been in our current house for around 12 years and have pretty much grown out of it, the plan was always to either extend or move. Once we had Cas it became really clear how much it matters to live close to family. My brother is in Wimbledon and my dad and stepmum in Fulham, which sounds close, but 45 minutes to an hour with a baby feels very different to how it felt before. So south west London became the focus, to close that gap a bit.

Beyond location we wanted something we could put our own stamp on, a project rather than something finished. We wanted space to extend, add value and make it properly ours rather than just moving into someone else’s version of a house. Then the usual things: good schools nearby, green space, decent transport links.

We ended up looking in the Raynes Park area as it ticked all of those boxes and was still within our budget. I actually know it well, my dad had a house just off Wimbledon Common between the village and Raynes Park when I was growing up, so it already feels like home.

What’s your holiday packing formula?

I’m actually going away soon so I’m planning to do a proper packing post on my holiday outfit edit, so stay tuned for that. But in general my formula is a mix of easy chuck-on mini dresses for daytime, one or two matching sets, linen shirts and shorts and then four or five evening outfits depending on how long I’m away.

I’m actually a terrible overpacker, one of my toxic traits is that I always leave it to the last minute and end up throwing in extra bits I never touch. Accessories are my worst habit, I come home with bags and shoes I didn’t wear once. So this trip I’m really trying to plan every outfit properly in advance and actually stick to it. Will report back on how that goes..

Tie-detail cotton pyjamas - too good just for bedtime.

Mayhem Sea Necklace - love this worn with a simple vest top

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Skirt Layered Trousers - quiet luxury energy, high-street price point

Organic Cotton 2 Tee T-Shirt - just ordered this after eyeing the Leset version for ages, looks incredibly similar for less.

Stand Up Barrel Chino Pants - such a good shade of green for summer

Strappy Footbed Rope Detail Sandals - a very good dupe of my Miu Miu rope sandals

Cotton poplin maxi skirt - A really good white maxi just makes summer dressing easier

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Bubble hem poplin shorts - Keep seeing bubble hem shorts everywhere right now… not convinced I could pull them off, but love the vibe

Cream knit jumper - the perfect knit for cooler summer evenings

Jacquard-weave shopper - the shape is very reminiscent of the Row Idaho, love the colours as they’re still quite muted and chic

High collar bomber jacket - love this ice blue shade

Leather sandals - simple and streamlined, the chocolate brown is also very good

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Garment-Dyed Denim Jacket - I’ve just ordered this to try, it techinically menswear but i’ve been looking for a clay/light khaki denim jacket for ages and this looks good

Triple fish necklace - there’s something about the red cord that makes this feel very right

Elasticated Cotton Shorts - another one i’ve just ordered, the perfect white boxer style shorts for summer

chocolate check shorts - a very easy chuck-on summer set.

Denim balloon jacket in olive green - colour, shape and wash look just right

white cotton blouse - another blouse that i may need to add to my summer rotation

Blue knitted cardigan - a very, very good shade of blue

Moss plaid pants - I was just served these as a recommended post on Instagram and think i might need them, a bit different but really cute

The Nicola Maxi Slip Dress - one of my favourite brands for summer linen pieces

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White linen trousers - in the market for white trousers for summer, so ordered these, hoping they’re the ones.

Ocean Mist Cord Necklace with Lapis Lazuli - a very good new jewellery find

Cotton blend cutwork sweater

Yours truly low-rise cargo chino pants

Broderie anglaise strappy top

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Bottle pendant necklace

Blue And Brown Striped Shorts

Heaven Mayhem Sea Necklace

Leather flip-flops

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Jersey-panelled nylon mini dress

Satin Lace Trim Shorts

Balloon cotton trousers

Seersuckers culottes

Pure Cotton Lace Bib Detail Embroidered Top

Elasticated waist trousers

Beaded shoulder bag

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Wide leg striped trousers

Bomber jacket with puff sleeves

Leona Rope Sandal

Parachute trousers

Sabine necklace

Lace-trimmed one-shoulder top

Tie-strap cotton dress

Lex Pull-On Barrel Pants

Sela Necklace

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linen bomber jacket

We The Free Stand Up Barrel Chino Pants

Wide-Leg Jeans

We’ve just got back from a trip up to see my family in the North East, with a couple of nights in Scotland and then Yorkshire visiting friends on the way back. I worked out this was probably Cas’ 10th UK staycation now, which feels slightly mad, but also means I’ve picked up a few packing tips along the way which has made travelling with a baby feel much more streamlined.

So I thought I’d share a little round-up of our non-negotiables and small hacks that have genuinely made our trips feel easier. It will obviously vary depending on age, but this is everything that’s helped us from around 6 to 18 months.

Travel Cot Mattress

Whilst most B&Bs and hotels provide a travel cot, we’ve learned the hard way they’re not always what you’d hope for. A lot are really old with unsafe foam mattresses, or sometimes don’t come with a mattress at all. Hotels are usually fine, but Airbnbs/self-catered stays can be such a mixed bag. We once stayed somewhere where the cot literally had no mattress (not even the standard base) so we had to makeshift one out of blankets with a sheet over it. Safe to say my anxiety was quite high that night.

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If someone asked me to describe my style in three words, I honestly wouldn’t know how to answer. As useful as that method might be for some people, I’ve always found it a little too limiting. Maybe it’s just my naturally unruly nature, but anything that tries to neatly define or box in how I dress never quite works for me.

Having said that, there are definitely certain things i ask myself when i’m getting dressed. Firstly, i always think about the tones of the outfit. I like to wear colour, but in a more tonal way, I’m naturally drawn to shades that work together and feel easy on the eye. Nothing too contrasting, but combinations that feel cohesive and effortless.

Then there’s the silhouette of the outfit, if I’m wearing something bigger or more exaggerated on top, I’ll pair it with a more fitted lower half, or create some shape with a cropped sweatshirt or a structured bag. I like an outfit to feel balanced visually.

Then lastly, one of the most important elements for me is whether the outfit feels me. This is probably the part that’s shifted the most over time. It’s only recently, in my mid-to-late-thirties, that I feel like I’ve really started to know my style. Not in a fixed, defined way, but in a way that feels instinctive. My style, much like my personality, naturally leans more laid-back, that’s what feels the most comfortable to me. So even if an outfit is a bit smarter, I’ll almost always find a way to dress it down slightly, usually through accessories. Ultimately, I feel most like myself when I feel comfortable in what I’m wearing.

With that being said, i thought i’d do a little breakdown of some outfits i’ve been wearing over the last couple of weeks and why i like them. They all follow that same thread for me: tonal colours, balanced silhouettes, and most importantly, that sense of feeling like myself in what I’m wearing.

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1. 

   The color palette here does most of the heavy lifting. The combination of the forest green and the beige/vanilla tones feels very fresh and spring-like, still with a lighter jacket for the chillier mornings.

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   2.

   

   This look is kind of off-duty, which i like. When the silhouette leans more relaxed, I’ll usually ground it with something a bit more considered, like here with the structured shoulder bag or the slightly cropped fit on the sweatshirt so it doesn’t overwhelm.

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   3.

   

   I wore this outfit last week and really liked how the tones work together. It keeps the outfit feeling cohesive without being flat. I actually wore a different jacket with it because i didn’t have a structured jacket in the tone i wanted, but in hindsight something like this olive one goes really well, it helps pull everything together and adds a bit of shape.

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   4.

   

   The silhouette is a bit more relaxed on top, so the straight-leg jeans help ground it and keep things from feeling too oversized. Straight leg jeans and loafers are one of those outfits that I gravitate towards a lot as it feels casual and cool but still put together, it’s easy to repeat, and works for pretty much anything in the day.

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   5.

   

   I’m really drawn to blue at the moment. It feels like it’s everywhere I look, and I’m really leaning into it, it feels especially fresh for this kind of in-between season. The cobalt is a little bolder than what I’d usually go for, but paired with the right tones, I actually love it. I just picked up this pair of cargos from Zara; the fit is really relaxed, and I love how they look with something simple like flip-flops and a vest top. It keeps the whole outfit feeling easy and undone.

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   6.

   

   I’m loving navy and olive paired together, it’s a bit more unexpected but still feels tonal without being too contrasting. There’s enough depth between the two to add interest, but it still stays within that same muted, easy palette I naturally gravitate towards. I kept the top more fitted underneath, then add the jacket for a bit of structure and the pendant necklace just softens everything.

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As always, thanks for being here. More soon, Francesca x

Wide leg tailored trousers

Woven Rounded Hobo Bag

Connie Round Neck linen top

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Red Suede Flip Flop Sandals

Checked Bubble Hem Funnel Neck Jacket

Minimalist leather clogs

Wide Leg High Waisted Jeans

Slip On Flat Square Toe Mules

Ribbed Bandeau Bikini Top

Balloon jeans with rolled-up hem

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Lugged Rectangle Sunglasses

Pure Cotton Lace Insert Peplum Top

Relaxed Terry Sweatshirt

Interlude Thong Sandals

Cotton Blend V-Neck Knit Sweater

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Suede Funnel Neck Jacket

Angular Cat Eye Sunglasses

High Rise Balloon Jeans

High-heel ballerinas

Suede bucket bag

Essential Denim Shorts

Textured Swimsuit

Ruched Linen Dress

leather weave basket bag in khaki

Clean cut t-shirt

Jessie Thong Sandal

Satin Pull-On Shorts

Knot-Button Overshirt

The promise of warmer days has also given me the travel itch, I’ve been organised for once and planned most of my spring/summer trips, so I thought I’d share a few things I’ve been loving lately, along with what I’ve got coming up, travel wise.

I’m very much into the blue trend especially for spring/summer, it’s a cooler alternative to recent warm-color trends. I just got these Arket jeans and i’ve been wearing them constantly, they’re such a good wide-leg, low rise fit and I love the washed blue shade, I can’t wait to ditch the layers and style them like this, with a simple vest top and flip flops.

I also just spotted the new colourway of the Miu Miu x New Balance in dreamy periwinkle blue… and I’m so tempted. I wear my dark brown pair all the time, so I already know these would be on heavy rotation. The flatter shape makes them ridiculously easy to style, they work just as well with jeans as they do with baggier silhouettes. What do you think, should I try them?

The combination of cobalt, or even a softer, powdery blue, with rich browns is so good. I also love how it works with pops of olive green, and even layered with other shades of blue like deep indigo or baby blue.

I’ve put together a little edit of some of my favourite pieces — shop it here

I wore this outfit last week and felt so good in it; exactly the kind of look I love. Really comfy and casual, but still cool and put together..

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The jeans were a bit of a mission… I’d been after them for ages but held out for the sale. Of course they sold out super quickly, but I managed to track down a pair for 50% off in a 29. I had them taken in about an inch and now they fit perfectly. I know lots of you are after them so here is an edit of similar styles that would give the same effect. The JW Anderson pair have a wide, twisted silhouette with a curved seam detail, this pair from American vintage look really similar. They’ve got a pleated front which gives a similar vibe although the colour leans a bit more beige than olive, but they still look great.

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Once I could fit back into my jeans after beign pregnant and post partum, I realised I’d completely fallen out of love with most of the styles I owned.

So in the autumn I started slowly going through my denim, trying on, editing, and selling pairs I just wasn’t reaching for anymore. I realised I was gravitating towards either am ankle grazing straight leg or a longer, more relaxed straight fit. I’ve been slowly investing in a few new pairs. Alongside the COS straight leg jeans, I picked up this pair from Toteme, I had them taken in about an inch at the waist (they were a size too big) and they fit like a dream now. I also found this great high-rise Agolde pair in the sale.

I’ve just ordered the Still Here Cool jeans in the beige/khaki wash, which I’ve been eyeing for a while. I wasn’t totally sure on sizing, so I went for my usual, hoping they fit (stay tuned). I alos just noticed that NET-A-PORTER have started stocking them, which means you can avoid taxes and duties, and they’ve got a couple of different washes available.

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I’ve been planning out a few trips for this year and I’m so excited for what’s coming up. Starting with Edinburgh; we’re staying at a very cool-looking spot (will share properly once we’ve been). Then in May, a trip to Devon to stay at a gorgeous looking Sand & Stone property. I’ll do a full review of everything after, but in the meantime, I’d love any recommendations for that area (near Kingsbridge and the South Devon coast).

In June, we’ll be in France for a few days with friends, then heading to Spain which will be mostly family time but we are doing a stay at Marbella Club which I’m so excited for, plus a couple of nights at the brand new OKU Andalucía.

We’re not planning any big trips in July and August as I find most of Europe too hot with a young baby, but I’m hoping to fit in a short work trip to the Dolomites, plus the annual trip to Copenhagen for Fashion Week - which I might extend slightly or combine with a trip to Stockholm to see my brother..

As always, would love to hear your thoughts and recommendations!

More soon, Francesca x

I had so many lovely messages after my recent post about my experience with postpartum anxiety and insomnia. I wrote about it because it can feel so isolating when you’re in it, and hearing or reading about similar experiences can make such a difference. I know it did for me.

As a follow-on, I wanted to go into a bit more detail about some of the things I tried to support my mental health during that time, it’s something I get asked about a lot and much of what I tried also applies to anxiety more broadly, not just postpartum.

So, in the spirit of sharing, these are the things I tried.. I hope it’s helpful in some way.

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EFT, Emotional Freedom Technique

One of the first things I tried was EFT, which in essence, is a combination of talking whilst tapping on specific acupressure points (mainly on the face, chest and side of your body). It’s part talking therapy, part somatic work with the body (similar to accupture but without the needles). I was a bit sceptical at first, I haven’t had much (if any) therapy in the past, so i wasn’t really sure what to expect.

But I actually found it really effectice; the conversation was free-flowing, less structured than my experience with CBT, and Emma, who I went to see, really helped me reframe some of the feelings and experiences around the birth and early Motherhood I’d been holding onto.

I wasn’t sure what to expect with the tapping side of it, but it did feel effective. It’s meant to help regulate the nervous system and shift some of the more ingrained thought patterns as well as trauma your body holds. I came away from every session calmer, Emma really helped me make connections to some of the experiences around the birth and the subsequent anixety and insomnia I was having, joining the dots around how unsafe I’d felt at times and how my body hadn’t really moved on from that.

I did 4 sessions with Emma, in Streatham

Vedic Meditation, London Meditation Centre

I have a few friends who practise Vedic meditation and really swear by it, and it’s something I’d always been curious about. After reading more about the benefits; from reducing anxiety and stress to improving sleep, health, energy, and overall resilience, it felt like something that I could really benefit from.

Unlike other types of meditation, there’s no pressure to quieten the mind, in fact, thoughts are part of the process. It’s a practice that uses a sound, or mantra, to gently guide the mind towards quieter levels of thinking.

For me, it wasn’t something that worked overnight, but the cumulative effect has been really powerful. After a few weeks, I started to feel noticeably less anxious, I was sleeping better, and even saw improvements in my HRV on my Oura ring.

I also love that once you’ve learned it, it’s something you can come back to at any point in your life — it’s always there when you need it.

I learnt at the London Meditation Centre in Notting Hill (recommended by my lovely friend India, who has been practicing for a couple of years)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy via Talking Therapies

I’d never had CBT before, but in the first year postpartum you’re automatically eligible to self-refer via Perinatal Mental Health for talking therapies on the NHS (or ask your GP). After an initial assessment, I had six weeks course of weekly Guided Self Help sessions.

Each session focused on different exercises and tools to help manage anxiety, and I did find a lot of it really helpful, especially the practical ways they give you to manage day-to-day thoughts and worries. But because my anxiety was so tied to the birth and becoming a mum, it didn’t always feel that personal. That said, I would still really recommend it for general anxiety, it gives you really helpful tools that you can come back to whenever you need them.

NHS Talking Therapies

Deep Neuro-Muscular Massage & BodyMapping

A friend recommended Kristina to me, she specialises in body mapping and Theta Brainwave Transformation. Her work focuses on guiding transformational change by working with the theta brainwave state, which is a naturally receptive state of the mind. It’s the state your brain is in just before you fall asleep, often associated with insight, intuition, and a kind of deep, quiet awareness. It’s actually similar to the state you can reach through Vedic meditation.

The treatment I had combined deep neuromuscular massage with silent Theta somatic energy work. At the start, you’re invited to share what you’ve been experiencing, either physically or emotionally, and from there, the process becomes much more intuitive.

What I physically experience was a very deep massage which at times, was quite painful. You’re encouraged to breathe through it, which felt quite intense but also very releasing. I chose the option that included some talking, so we were also talking about how I’d been feeling during the treatment which was really cathatic.

She worked mainly along my spine, which is very closely connected to the nervous system, and towards the end we moved into more of the theta work. During this part I found myself drifting in and out of sleep, which is very normal.

I found the whole thing really effective and actually writing this makes me want to go back for another session..

I did the Transformational Integration session with Kristina Eastwood, if you book mention my name as she often offers referral discounts.

Supplemnets and sleep aids

Alongside the above, I tried a lot of different sleep aids over the past year, so I’ve got a pretty good sense of what I rate and what didn’t do much for me. Of course, sleep is so personal, but here are the ones I rate:

• Deep Sleep Mode, Happy Mamouth

  I like that these are specialised for women’s particular sleep needs, and they really work. They’re also non–habit-forming. I don’t take anything regularly anymore, but I like to keep them as a backup or for when I’m travelling. They help you fall asleep faster and improve your deep sleep. I’m already quite a deep sleeper, but I notice that whenever I take them, my deep sleep score on my Oura Ring is always a lot higher.

• Night Time Duo, Wild Nutrition

  This combination has been really helpful for me. I’m a big fan of ashwagandha, especially for anxiety and a racing mind and I find it really supports emotional balance and helps build a bit more resilience when everything feels heightened. It’s become a bit of a staple for me postpartum and I love Wild Nutrition, they create food-grown supplements that are designed to be more easily absorbed by the body, rather than the ultra-processed versions you find elsewhere.

• ZZZZs Capsules, Form Nutrition

  Another good non-habbit forming sleep supplment, these really help if you have trouble falling asleep, I noticed I’d fall asleep a lot faster with these. My mum, who has had on-and-off sleep problems, really rates these. They’re centred around 5-HTP, calming amino acids, and essential dietary minerals like magnesium and zinc, helping to address any deficiencies that may be affecting your sleep.

• 8 Hours, Sleep to Move

  I like that these are designed to take every day and not just improve your sleep but also improve your energy the next day, I often take these when i’m travelling as they pretty much guarantee a good nights sleep.

I was also given an over-the-counter antihistamine (promethazine) in the hospital to help me sleep and reduce the panic attacks I was experiencing in the first couple of days postpartum (more on that here). It was effective, but I hated how lethargic and dopey it made me feel. It also left me feeling very dehydrated and gave me headaches, so I much prefer the natural, non–habit-forming options mentioned above. I feel similarly about melatonin, to be honest—I got some in Spain, but it didn’t particularly work for me and just made me feel tired and drowsy the next day.

Final Thoughts…

I think the biggest thing I’ve taken from all of this is that there isn’t one single answer. It was never just one thing that “fixed” how I was feeling but very much a combination of time, different types of support, and giving myself far more grace than I probably wanted to.

If anything, this experience has made me much more open to trying things I might have dismissed before, and being more aware of how much the body holds onto, especially after something as intense as birth.

As always, I’d love to hear your experiences — whether you’ve tried any of this, how you found it, or anything else that helped. Francesca x

After a January scroll that ended in several returns, I wasn’t expecting to find much worth revisiting. But when I noticed they’d taken an extra 20% off — and quietly added a lot of new pieces, including some current-season items — I decided to have another look.

Predictably, that “quick check” turned into a proper scroll. A few things made it into my basket, along with some pieces I already own that are now very well discounted.

1/

I’m really into parachute-style jackets at the moment, so I had to order this Toteme one. I love the soft cream shade, and the silhouette from the back is chef’s kiss. It also has that slightly oversized, effortless shape that works just as well thrown over tailoring as it does with jeans.

Even better, it’s currently an extra 20% off the sale price with the code FLASH20, which made it feel very justified.

2/

I’m always a big fan of POSSE’s dresses, and I love the easy, relaxed feel of this white linen one. The gently tiered shape and gorgeous open back have me dreaming of summer already.

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3/

I’m still on the hunt for the perfect jeans and have been slowly overhauling my collection, as I’ve found myself gravitating much more towards a straight-leg fit lately. I picked up a great pair from COS recently, but couldn’t resist trying these as they look like they have that perfect vintage feel — a straight leg, but with a slightly relaxed shape that still feels polished.

4/

I already own these St. Agni trousers and they’re genuinely one of my favourite pieces for spring dressing. They’re currently in the sale with the extra discount, which makes them an especially good buy. I also picked up the matching tank top to wear with them — an easy set that feels effortless but still pulled together.

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5/

Another great-looking pair of denim to try. I’ve heard rave reviews about SLVRLAKE jeans, and these look perfect — the wash and straight-leg cut feel like they’d go with almost everything in my wardrobe. I’m already picturing them worn simply with flip-flops going into spring.

6/

I spotted my POSSE yellow linen dress in the sale and had to mention it. It’s such a great shape — I wore it constantly last summer and fully plan to do the same again this year. Definitely one to grab while it has the extra discount.

7/

I couldn’t believe it when I spotted the Toteme Country waxed jacket in the sale and with an extra 20% off. It almost feels like a mistake..

I’d actually tried this on in store recently and like it a lot, but didn’t love it enough to justify it at full price, which is why I left it. But at the current sale price (with the extra discount), it suddenly feels very tempting.

see everything else i tried in Toteme here

8/

I bought these pointed heels for Copenhagen Fashion Week to style with a specific look, but I’ve ended up wearing them far more than expected since. They’re the perfect heel height and look great worn with socks as well as on their own.

9/

This purse is firmly on my wishlist. I’m in the market for a new purse and this one is just so chic. I’ll be casually sending it to my husband as a not-so-subtle hint ahead of Mother’s Day…

10/

There are so many great Toteme pieces in the flash sale. I’ve always loved their bags, the designs feel really considered and intentional, while still being practical. There are a few different styles included in the sale, so it’s definitely worth having a look if you’re in the market for a new bag. I personally love this suede tote style.

11/

Another great pair of trousers in the sale. I own these Citizen ones in both black and this khaki green and wear them all the time — they’re incredibly comfortable thanks to the drawstring waist. A really good option for both pregnancty and post-natal dressing too.

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12/

I really hate the way these have been styled online, but I actually think these Citizens of Humanity pants look like such a great hybrid — tailored like a proper trouser, but with a more casual, denim-like feel. I’m also really drawn to navy at the moment, which makes them even more appealing.

13/

Lastly, this Dôen dress is giving nightwear-as-eveningwear in the best way. The lace trim and bias cut give it such a beautiful, simple shape. I also think it would look great layered over a T-shirt for a more relaxed take.

Safe to say the “quick look” turned into quite a successful sale scroll.

More soon — and as always, thanks for being here. Francesca x

I think I’ll find it hard to limit it to just five, especially because I tend to switch things up in the summer. So heres a break down of what I reach for most everyday, investment buys and seasonal favourites.

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everyday

If I’m heading out with Cas, my vintage Louis Vuitton Bucket GM is what I reach for most. It fits everything but never feels bulky. I can throw it over chunky knits and big coats thanks to the adjustable strap, which makes it incredibly easy to wear.

If you’re considering one, there are usually plenty on Vestiaire Collective and eBay. My only advice would be to look for one with a canvas lining — mine has the original leather interior and it’s far too delicate and has peeled a lot.

I’ve realised I reach for hobo and bucket styles most for everyday. They works when I’m out with the baby, but equally on days when I need space for my laptop, makeup bag, and everything else I inevitably carry. Right now, I’m using my DeMellier Siena Hobo a lot, is in black grained leather, which gives it that slightly matte, understated finish that goes with everything.

Style-wise, it’s minimal but not boring. The curved base gives it a subtle sculptural feel, and the clean lines keep it looking polished even when it’s full. It sits comfortably under the arm but still feels relaxed; not rigid, not overly structured. It’s chic without trying too hard, which is exactly what I want from an everyday bag.

I also reach for my two suede tote bags a lot. My Arket one is a few years old now but its very simialr in shape to the Lie Studio Norma Tote, they have the same easy, open shape I love and are spacious enough for my laptop and everything else, without feeling bulky. Suede is obviously less durable than leather so i use them weather dependant.

seasonal

In the spring and summer I cant get enough of a dragon diffusion bag, I have the large Triple Jump in brown and forest green, the Nantucket in white and the Rosanna in red. They are the perfect summer bag and probably the bag i get asked about the most, the woven leather gives a more relaxed feel to a summery outfit and the shape give a really cool silhouette against a more laid back, cotton or linen summer ‘fit.

I think the Triple Jump style is my favourite as it feels a bit more structured, both of the larger styles fit loads in but the only thing to note is because the base is woven leather, you do have to be a little careful not to overload them as they can stretch over time if you’re not mindful.

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investment

When it comes to designer splurges, I’m quite considered. I’ll only invest if I feel there’s a genuine gap in my wardrobe; something missing that I know I’ll reach for repeatedly. My two biggest investment buys have been the Teen Jodie from Bottega Veneta in Barolo and the Puzzle bag from Loewe in Artichoke.

A beautifully designed bag really does elevate an outfit. The craftsmanship, the materials, the small details — they’re difficult to truly replicate. And for me, that’s what justifies the investment. They aren’t trend pieces; they’re design-led, considered additions that make even the simplest outfit feel intentional.

The Teen Jodie is probably one of my best ever purchases, this colourway is really hard to get hold of now and the style of the bag is something i know i’ll never tire of, the colour I went for makes it the perfect bag to elevate a really simple outfit but also doubles as a great evening bag because of the size.

What I love most, though, is the shape. I’m very conscious of silhouette when I get dressed, and the soft, curved structure of the Jodie adds something sculptural without feeling forced. It sits neatly under the arm and gives that subtle volume that balances more relaxed tailoring or minimal layers.

It fits a good amount, although the more you fill it, the harder it is to get comfortably over your shoulder — so I try not to overload it. The leather wears beautifully too. It’s surprisingly resilient and has held up incredibly well with regular use.

When I first bought my Puzzle from Loewe, I used it constantly. It felt modern, architectural, and slightly different to anything else I owned. Over the last year though, I haven’t found myself reaching for it as much. I think it’s simply because it’s a crossbody/top-handle style, and right now I’m gravitating more towards easy shoulder bags. My outfits feel softer and more relaxed, and I naturally want a bag that mirrors that.

I’ve actually been meaning to try one of the additional shoulder straps, they have a few options you can attach. Sometimes it’s not about falling out of love with a bag, it’s just about making it work for where your style is now.

More soon — and as always, thanks for being here. Francesca x

Is anyone else completely fed-up of wearing a big winter coat?

I’m so ready to not feel wrapped up like I’m bracing for impact every time I leave the house. Well, it’s supposed to be 16 degrees and sunny tomorrow, which officially means spring is on the horizon. The second there’s even a hint of sun, I want something lighter. Spring dressing, to me, is all about that middle ground — not freezing, not overheating, just enough of a layer to make an outfit feel finished. A jacket that works with jeans and a tee, over a dress, with trainers or boots. Easy.

I’ve had a few messages asking for spring jacket recommendations, and it’s something I’ve been virtually shopping for anyway — so here are the ten spring jackets currently on my radar. The ones I keep saving, screenshotting, and mentally adding to my wardrobe as we finally move out of big-coat season.

1.

I’m obsessed with a funnel-neck moment right now, especially the nylon versions I’m seeing everywhere. They have that cool, slightly sporty edge, but still feel elevated. I love that you can style them with something minimal and structured and they don’t look out of place. (The styling of the jacket in this image is exactly what I mean.) The contrast of the tailored trousers, a simple tee and a pointed boot feels intentional rather than athletic, but equally would look just as cool with jeans and chunky trainers.

2.

You know I love a Toteme jacket, and the new Country Jacket is chef’s kiss. It’s their fresh take on the classic country style and, in my opinion, it’s even better. Just the right amount of oversized, with a slightly longer back and a funnel-neck collar lined in corduroy — so chic.

3.

I’ve had the Gabriella waxed jacket for a couple of years now, and there’s a reason it keeps coming back — it’s a classic and such a solid addition to any wardrobe. It works just as well in spring as it does in autumn, which makes it one of those pieces you genuinely get wear out of.

I’m really into navy right now too, so I’ve been reaching for it a lot. It drapes beautifully, and I sized up to a large so I have plenty of room to layer jumpers underneath — although I could easily have gone for a medium. (currently 20% off too!)

4.

Love, love, love this jacket. The high collar is such a vibe — it gives that same energy as the Toteme funnel-neck style, but at a much more appealing price point.

The slightly asymmetric button-up detail at the neck looks so chic, and I think it would look cool worn with just the top buttons fastened. It’s one of those pieces that feels directional without trying too hard.

5.

I recently tried this jacket on at the Barbour press day and it’s so good. The slightly cropped shape gives it such a cool silhouette, and the drawstring waist means you can cinch it in to exaggerate that shape even more. I also love that it’s navy check rather than black — it feels softer and a bit more interesting — and it’s cut from a shower-proof twill, which makes it actually practical for unpredictable spring weather.

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6.

You can probably tell I’m a little bit obsessed with Massimo Dutti right now (I really need to do a try-on session soon). How gorgeous is this linen overshirt? The mandarin-style front fastenings look so chic — they give it that slightly elevated, almost minimalist feel that makes it more than just a basic layer.

It’s the kind of piece that would look just as good thrown over a white tee and jeans as it would styled with tailored trousers and sandals. Effortless, but still refined.

7.

I saw someone wearing this at LFW and immediately fell in love. Inspired by traditional Mandarin-style jackets but reworked with a clean H-line silhouette and slightly off-centre knot buttons, it feels both classic and modern. The bold red makes it a statement, but the structured shape keeps it refined.

I also own a similar jacket in brown from Róhe — that colour is now sold out, but it comes in white, beige, black and a navy blue that I love. This suede high-street version is gorgeous too, and such a good alternative if you’re after the same look at a more accessible price point.

8.

Mint Velvet have recently dropped their new-season jackets and they are so good. They’ve released a couple of leather styles in the most stunning butter yellow and I’m obsessed - I have a feeling this colour is going to be everywhere.

9.

I’ve just managed to get my hands on the highly sought-after Fusia Shaw Arden jacket in red — yay! I’m genuinely obsessed. It’s the perfect addition to everyday outerwear: the silhouette is stunning and it’s perfectly oversized. The high funnel neck adds that cool edge to what is, at its core, a practical, shower-proof jacket designed to take you from city to countryside. It feels functional, but elevated — which is exactly what I want from a spring layer.

It’ll be coming back in stock, so definitely sign up for alerts if you missed it. I also love the beige version — equally chic, just a little softer. (i got the xs-small size)

10.

I haven’t shopped in & Other Stories for a while, but I popped in the other day and they have some really good jackets at the moment. I tried on this wool zip-up and loved it so much I had to get it. It’s cut in a loose, cocoon shape with dropped shoulders, and the pinched folds at the back hem give it such a beautiful silhouette. It has the structure of a jacket but the softness of a jumper, which makes it perfect for wearing both indoors and out.

More soon — and as always, thanks for being here. Francesca x

There were a few pieces I’ve been reaching for on repeat, some very good sale finds, and lots of easy, comfortable outfits.

So here’s everything I wore this week.

MONDAY

I started the week with a couple of meetings and press day drop-ins, so I reached for a failsafe combination which i’ve been wearing a lot lately. The grey Uniqlo polo has quietly become a hero piece in my wardrobe and I’ve been wearing it on repeat. I love it layered over a simple white T-shirt; it gives that casual-but-cool feel, styled it with my go-to straight leg Agolde jeans and finished it off with my suede Gucci boots — polished, comfortable, and easy.

TUESDAY

I recently nabbed this gorgeous jacket in the MyTheresa sale — I’ve been on the hunt for a short brown jacket for a while now. It’s one of those gaps in my wardrobe that kept making itself known; often when I was pulling outfits together, it was the piece I wished I had.

I styled it simply with these great pair of black trousers, such an effortless wardrobe essential, and let the proportions do the talking. The cropped brown jacket adds warmth and structure, while the black trousers keep everything streamlined and polished. Can’t wait to wear this jacket more as we get into spring, I actuallt sized down to a UK8 and love the way it fits, still a little oversized.

WEDNESDAY

On Wednesday I had a facial booked in the morning, then spent the rest of the day with my in-laws who had arrived the day before. I ended up rewearing an outfit I’d shot a couple of days earlier, but swapped the suede boots for my black M&S loafers to keep things a little more practical and weather-proof (in preparation for the inevitable rain).

brown leather jacket, grey polo jumper, grey socks, gucci boots

THURSDAY

I came down with a horrible cold midweek, but I powered through — I had a few fun appointments on Thursday and a very overdue lunch date with my lovely pal Aimee that I wasn’t willing to miss.

Comfort was key, so I reached for my JW Anderson twisted seam jeans. I always get compliments on them — they’re one of those pieces that feel a little directional but still completely wearable. I actually missed them when they first went into the sale pre-Christmas, but managed to track down a size 29, had them taken in, and now they fit perfectly. Proof that a little tailoring goes a long way.

Styled with my Arket grey jacket which is sold out but I found a similar jacket here, LIÉ STUDIO bag and my new balace x miu miu suede trainers. It felt like the perfect outfit for a lovely morning of press appointments, including a stop by By Alona to preview their new-season collection, so many gorgeous pieces that are just starting to drop now and will continue landing throughout spring.

FRIDAY

Friday was cloudy with a fair bit of drizzle, so I took my Massimo Dutti bomber jacket out for a lunch date followed by the cinema with Shaun — our first proper trip to the cinema since before Cas was born (not counting daytime baby cinema). I wore this during the day and then swapped the boots for ballet flats for the cinema later, a small switch but a lot comfier for a cinema date.

I’m really loving this bomber jacket; it feels like one of those pieces that’s going to come into its own properly in spring. It instantly makes a simple jeans-and-boots look feel cooler and more considered, and I love the structured, slightly puffed cuff at the hem, it gives it just enough shape to elevate everything without trying too hard.

SATURDAY

The only sunny day in… possibly forever? It certainly felt like it. Shaun’s parents were still staying with us, so we kept things very chilled and headed out for a late lunch at the park café in Crystal Palace. I just put on something relaxed — nothing overthought. I’m really loving these cargo-style jeans I picked up in the sale. I took my usual size and they fit nicely, but you could easily size up if you wanted a more relaxed, slouchy feel. I always find the outfits I love most are the simplest ones; the ones I reach for when I’m just hanging out with Shaun and Cas at the weekend. Easy, comfortable, and completely unforced.

SUNDAY

I only left the house for a quick drive to see our (fingers crossed!!) new house so we could show my in-laws. The rain was so relentless that we spent the rest of the day indoors — so it was just another comfy weekend outfit to round off the week.

I wore my trusty Citizens of Humanity tie-waist trousers, paired with this Free People vegan leather jacket, which is fast becoming one of my favourite pieces in my wardrobe. Easy, comfortable, and perfect for a slow, rainy Sunday at home.

More soon — and as always, thanks for being here. Francesca x

I feel like January passed in a bit of a blur. After being hit with that horrible flu on Boxing Day, I didn’t feel fully recovered for a couple of weeks, which made the inevitable January blues feel even heavier. Like most, I tend to use January as a bit of a reset. It’s always a slowish start; giving me time to take stock, move my body, focus on self-care, and do some fieldwork for inspiration for the upcoming season. This year started even more slowly (due to the aforementioned illness), but I thought I’d put together a small review of the things I’ve turned to over the past month — along with a few that caught my eye and have me excited for new season dressing.

1/ I always feel like January is the time to hunker down and binge a series — nothing too serious. Having been served spoilers of Heated Rivalry on my explore feed since early December (the algorithm clearly knows me well), I was very excited for it to finally launch in the UK in January (on Sky/Now). Naturally, I binged the whole thing in a day. Based on the hockey romance novel, it’s tense, addictive, and exactly the kind of escapist viewing I was craving — rival teams, long-simmering tension, and an almost unbearable level of yearning threaded throughout. The push and pull, the restraint, the emotional stakes — the perfect winter sofa viewing.

I’ll definitely be going back in for a rewatch soon, but have moved on to Tell Me Lies, which has me both hating every character and still hoping for some kind of redemption arc. Infuriating but utterly watchable, full of college drama, toxic relationships, and at least a couple of sociopaths.

I’ve also started rewatching Dawson’s Creek. I’ve seen it so many times, and every few years I return to it — it’s my ultimate comfort show. I still think it’s one of the best teen series, and honestly, Pacey walked so Conrad could run.

2/ I started and finished The Names in January — and wow, it completely blew me away. It’s easily one of the best books I’ve read in a while. I’d been looking for something absorbing after finishing Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow over Christmas (which I also really enjoyed), and this more than delivered.

Following intertwined lives shaped by the weight of a name and how it can define a life, the story unfolds in a sliding-doors style, with three alternate narratives running in parallel. It explores identity, nature vs nuture, and the long shadows cast by difficult experiences. It’s one of those books that quietly pulls you in and stays with you, its thoughtful, immersive, and beautifully written, a striking debut by Florence Knapp, and I already can’t wait to see what she does next.

I’m now reading City of Lies: Love, Sex, Death, and the Search for Truth in Tehran by Ramita Navai. Having a Persian father, I’ve read and heard a lot about Iran’s history, from the Persian Empire as one of the earliest global superpowers to the revolution and the past 47 years of the islamic regime, there’s so much to understand and unpack. But I hadn’t read as much about the texture of everyday life in modern Tehran.

Each chapter follows one or two central characters from different social classes, offering glimpses into their lives and the tensions between private reality and public presentation. The premise centres on how peoples lives are not what they seem in Tehran. All the characters are real and heavly reasearced by the author, but at times, some elements feel heightened, and there’s a sense that certain characters have been selected for their extremity — but it’s nevertheless a compelling window into a complex and multifaceted society.

3/ For Christmas, Shaun gave me a voucher for KMP Skin, and I had the most dreamy 90-minute full-body massage. Since having a baby — and carrying said baby around — I feel like I’m constantly in need of one, and after a busy Christmas period and being ill, this was exactly what my body needed. Katherine was amazing; I felt completely safe and relaxed in her hands. I need to book in for a facial soon, as I’ve heard amazing things.

4/ I’ve been in the market for new jeans for a while; since having Cas, I just haven’t been loving any of my pre-pregnancy styles. I’ve been rotating between two washes of the Tess jeans, which are a great relaxed, straight-leg option, but I was looking for more of a true high-waisted straight-leg fit.

I love the Agolde 90s Pinch Waist for this, but I find them a little cropped on me and i’m often between sizes depending on the wash... Enter this pair from COS: exactly what I’ve been looking for. Fitted through the hips and bum, with a straight-leg shape that hits just above the ankle.

For reference, they don’t fit like they do on the model (at least not on me!). I took my usual size 28, and here’s how they fit, perhaps size up for a fit more like the model. I went for the faded blue shade, but I think I might need to order the indigo too.

5/ Speaking of new jean styles, I also picked these up in the MT sale, and they’re a great find — a similar relaxed shape to the Ayla jeans, but in a gorgeous brown carpenter style. They fit more true to size than the Aylas; I took my usual size 28 and they sit higher on the hips with a relaxed leg. I’d suggest sizing up if you want them to sit lower rise, like they do on the model.

I also ordered these mid-rise straight leg jeans in the sale and they are a great fit but sadly too cropped on the leg for me (i’m 5ft 7 for reference) but would highly recommend if you are shorter than me as the fit was 10/10.

6/ One of my New Year’s goals is to get back into reformer Pilates and, more generally, to be more consistent with exercise. I already have an amazing PT I’ve been working with since about four months postpartum — she’s helped me regain strength and tone after having a baby. I do a weekly virtual session with her, and I’ve just added her coaching plan, which includes two additional weekly sessions she sets for me to complete in my own time. I honestly can’t recommend Bianca enough — whether you’re a new mum or simply looking to improve your fitness from the comfort of your own home. She’s also offering 20% off to my followers, simple add FRAN20 when filling out the online form, you’ll then have a commitment-free chat with her and go from there!

7/ Votary Super Barrier Balm; one of the best winter skin SOS products I’ve tried: my skin was a bit of a mess after my illness over Christmas — really dehydrated from that, plus the cold weather and general lack of vitamin D. It’s transformed my dull winter skin. Deeply hydrating and designed to rescue, repair, and restore compromised skin, I’ve noticed such a difference in smoothness and glow, as well as fewer dry patches and flare-ups. I only wish it had been around last year when I was dealing with post-birth perioral dermatitis.

Another skin care hero in my rotation is the LED Red Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 2 which they kindly sent me. I’ve been using it fairly consistently throughout January, around two to three times per week, and have noticed a significant improvement in brightness and plumpness. It’s also helped reduce breakouts.

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8/ My favourite-ever cookies — I hadn’t baked them in a couple of years, but I made a batch a couple of weekends ago for a party. Luckily, we made plenty, so there were lots left over. They were the perfect after-dinner sweet treat, and I’m frankly devastated that we’ve finished them.

9/ As you probably saw, I was in Copenhagen for Fashion Week in January. I was only there for two full days, so I didn’t have time for my usual mooch around the shops, but I did make it to BÖF — the perfect Scandi childrenswear store, focusing on high-quality, handmade pieces from low-volume craftspeople.

I could have spent hours there and did end up spending far too much money, but they have the most beautiful baby and kids’ clothes. I’d highly recommend a visit if you’re in Copenhagen — or browsing their website, as they ship worldwide. I picked up this top and matching hat for Cas, and the most beautiful blanket as a much belated baby gift for my friend India.

10/ Last but not least — another baby recommendation for you. We were kindly sent a box from Peasy Baby to try: an organic, free-range, fresh meal delivery service. Made with real ingredients, it’s been such a lifesaver during busy weeks. Cas has always been a good eater, but he’s definitely going through a fussier toddler phase, and he loved these — especially the chicken orzo pouch. It’s a great option to try if you’re looking for something convenient without compromising on quality, as everything is made from real ingredients without the additives often found in shop-bought, shelf-stable pouches.

More soon — and as always, thanks for being here. Francesca x

After skipping last January’s fashion week while I was fully in the baby bubble, I was really looking forward to this one. I think I’d forgotten just how cold Copenhagen can be in January—because this year was by far the coldest I’ve experienced (and I think this was my second or third January fashion week here). With sub-zero temperatures and a “real feel” of –12, it was definitely one of the trickier weeks to dress for.

I leaned heavily on thermals and layering, with an attempt to build outfits that could survive walks between shows, standing outside venues, and the constant in-and-out of warm interiors and freezing streets. Lots of knits layered over thermals and polo necks, long coats, socks with all my shoes and outfits I could actually move in. Below is everything I wore, broken down day by day and show by show.

Tuesday

By Malene Birger Preview

Outfit

• Gaia Oversized wool coat

• Vanilla cream wool knit

• Eden white tailored trousers

• Tabi Ballerina split-toe leather heeled shoes

• Abilla Suede tote bag

• Pendant Leather Necklace

I styled this look around the gifted By Malene Birger jumper and bag, keeping everything else really simple and tonal so they could do the work. I love this knitwear, it’s such a gorgeous vanilla-cream shade that a tonal look felt like the obvious choice. Soft layers, clean tailoring; a considered outfit that felt right for a first stop of the week.

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This post has been on my mind for the last couple of months, Cas turned 1 in early December and not only did it feel like a big milestone for him, it was for me too.

These bright but cold late December/early January days out on walks with Cas has been giving me the biggest nostalgia - or maybe more acurrately, bittersweetness - for this time last year; when i was navigating a whole new normal. When I think back on those days, I get butterflies in my stomach, but not in a good way. Its more of a nervouse feeling; the wash of fear of being back in that headspace. A the time I felt like the anxiety and general feeling of being lost or disconnected from my former self, would never end.

It was in those moments that the words from fellow mums—both friends of mine and my lovely Instagram audience—kept me hopeful that it would pass, and reassured me that everything I was feeling was normal. Fast forward a year, and I couldn’t feel more differently. Back to “me”… or rather, the new, improved me. So with that in mind, I thought I’d reflect and share a bit more about it all, in the hope that it resonates with or comforts someone else.

The birth..

Even when everything goes to plan, giving birth for the first time—and then being flooded with intense, unfamiliar hormones—is something that nothing can truly prepare you for. And that’s not to say that everyone will struggle in the same way. Everyone experiences it differently. But I doubt anyone comes away from it the same person they were before.

My birth didn’t go exactly as planned. It all started at my 38-week midwife appointment. She did the usual bump measurement and noticed he had jumped from being in the 50th centile to the 90s.

I wasn’t overly worried, because midwife measurements can often be quite off. Still, I was referred for a scan, which happened a week later—by this point, I was already in my 39th week. The scan confirmed he was measuring big, around 9lb 3oz, and I was sent to speak to a midwife and obstetrician about my options.

And this is where things went from 0 to 100.

Bearing in mind, I had come to the hospital in my loungewear with no hospital bag or anything with me (we lived a three-minute drive away). The midwives told me not to worry—they’d do a few observations and then get an obstetrician to come and talk through my options.

The observations quickly showed that his heart rate was high. They couldn’t pinpoint why, but the decision was made fairly quickly to give me fluids and start prepping me for a C-section, given his heart rate and the fact that he was measuring big. We were told there were risks of shoulder displacement and that this was the safest option.

Shaun and I were both like… WTF.

We had nothing with us, and suddenly we were being prepared to meet our baby. I signed consent forms, met the anaesthetist, and was told, “You’ll meet your baby in 30 minutes.”

Then suddenly, the doctor came back and said, “Okay, his heart rate is back down now—he must have just been dehydrated.” We were told we were no longer an emergency, so I wouldn’t be having a C-section that day.

They kept me in overnight for continued observation, and I was told I could either have a C-section or be induced the next day.

In hindsight, I should have just discharged myself and gone home. A night on the labour ward—when you’re not in labour and don’t actually need to be there—is horrendous. We didn’t get any sleep. Naturally, there were screaming women in labour and constant activity on the ward.

I wasn’t allowed to eat after a small afternoon meal (bearing in mind I hadn’t eaten all day), and I couldn’t drink anything after 10 p.m. The next morning, no one came to see me. I was just left… waiting.

Eventually, I asked for a C-section. After the last 24 hours, I wasn’t about to be induced and potentially stuck on the labour ward for who knows how long. After a lot of back-and-forth, and being left without much information, I finally taken for my C-section at 4 p.m.

On reflection..

At the time, I didn’t realise how much all of this would stay with me. I was so focused on getting through it, on telling myself that everything was fine because, technically, it was. Cas arrived safely. I was safe.

But I think that first 24 hours set the tone for how I experienced those early postpartum days—constantly on edge, waiting for the next thing to change, never quite able to settle. I went from being told I was meeting my baby in 30 minutes, to being sent back into limbo, to spending the night on a ward that felt chaotic. I had no control, very little information, and no space to process any of it.

And then there was the operation itself. Because let’s be real—this was major abdominal surgery. I was awake for it. I could feel it: not pain, but intense pressure, tugging, movement. My body knew something huge was happening even if my brain hadn’t caught up yet. Afterwards, the shakes were awful—the kind that take over your whole body when the anaesthetic wears off.

And then suddenly, I had a newborn in my arms. I don’t think I fully understood how disorienting that would feel. One minute I was being monitored, observed, instructed. The next, I was expected to just be a mum. To know what I was doing. To feel connected. To feel grateful. To feel fine.

But inside, I felt shaken. Unsteady. Like something had been knocked loose.

The next 24 hours were a blur of love; looking at Cas, feeding him, cuddling him. But I also remember not being able to relax, I couldn’t really sleep and had this underlying feeling that something was wrong with either me or him.

When we got home, two days after I’d given birth, I thought I’d finally be able to relax being back in my own environment. I was so tired that I went straight for a nap, convinced I’d finally get some rest. Instead, I woke up an hour later in the middle of a full-blown panic attack.

I didn’t know where I was. I didn’t know what had happened. For a few seconds, I genuinely wasn’t sure if I had even given birth. I remember shouting for Shaun and asking, “Is the baby still inside me?” only for him to look at me, completely confused, and say, “No, babe… the baby is downstairs.” That same night, I ended up back in hospital. I’d woken up again in pure panic, in floods of tears, fully convinced that something was seriously wrong with me.

I have to say, the midwives were incredible. They immediately recognised that I was experiencing a combination of day-three baby blues and birth trauma, and that I wasn’t coping. They cuddled me, told me about their own experiences, reassured me that this was normal, and promised me that I was going to be okay. I was referred to perinatal mental health services and given antihistamine to help calm me — the kind that makes you drowsy and help you sleep.

For the next 2-3 months things felt better. To the extent where when the perinatal team got it tough i didnt think i needed to speak to anyone, didnt need any therapy. When Shaun went back to work and it was just me and Cas most days, the weight of it all settled in differently. There was no dramatic panic this time. No rushing back to hospital. Instead, the anxiety became quieter, more internal, more constant. It showed up as insomnia.

At first, it was subtle. I’d wake up in the night to feed Cas and then lie there, unable to fall back asleep. I started worrying about not sleeping. About how I was going to function the next day. About how I could possibly take care of a baby on my own when I felt so exhausted. And before I knew it, sleep became something I feared rather than something I trusted. I’d never experienced insomnia before, and it was terrifying. Because when you’re already anxious, lack of sleep makes everything feel louder, heavier. My thoughts spiralled faster. My body felt constantly wired. And I started to believe that this—this version of me—was permanent.

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Time.. and some therapy

I put a story up on Instagram at the time, explaining—quite vaguely—that I’d been struggling. I didn’t go into detail. But the wave of messages I received afterwards was like nothing I could have imagined.

It made me realise: Wow. This is actually pretty normal.
So why don’t people talk about this more?

Pretty much everyone who messaged me—there were hundreds—had either experienced some form of postnatal anxiety or postnatal depression, even if mildly. So many had also struggled with postnatal insomnia. That shared experience helped me more than I can explain. It made me feel far less alone in what I was going through, and it comforted me to know that this wasn’t some strange, isolated thing that was only happening to me. The main takeaway from almost every message was the same: it gets better.

I also started EFT (tapping therapy), which is a form of talking therapy, and I found it particularly helpful. Through EFT, I began to realise that a lot of what I was feeling came from having my sense of safety quietly stripped away before I even noticed it had happened. First through the unpredictability of the birth. Then through the surgery. Then through the panic. Then through the nights of not sleeping. It wasn’t that anything was wrong—it was that my nervous system no longer trusted that things were okay.

I think before becoming a mum, I’d always carried this unspoken belief that my body was mine, that I understood it, that I could rely on it. And suddenly, I couldn’t. My body had done something extraordinary, but it had also felt unfamiliar, unpredictable, out of my control. And my mind followed. And I think that’s what no one really prepares you for: that postpartum isn’t just physical recovery, it’s nervous system recovery too.

And then there was time. Which sounds obvious, but it mattered more than I realised.

A month in Spain when Cas turned 6 months, in particular, felt like a turning point. With my parents there everyday to look after the baby in the mornings so Shaun and I could sleep in, the warmth and the days blending into one another. We could properly rest and switch off. For the first time in months.

Bit by bit, my body learned that it didn’t need to be on high alert anymore. That nothing terrible was about to happen. That I could relax without consequence.

I also learned Vedic meditation after reading that it could help with both anxiety and insomnia. It’s one of those things that doesn’t make you feel different overnight—but slowly, almost without noticing, you begin to feel lighter. Things don’t stress you in the same way they once did. Your resilience grows.

One year on..

Now, a year on, I feel like myself again. I think around the six-month mark, something really started to shift. Not dramatically, not all at once—but enough that I could feel it. I felt more resilient, better rested, more settled into being a mum and everything that comes with it. I also got some childcare support, which allowed me to get back to work—and in doing so, reconnect with parts of myself I’d really missed.

If you’re reading this from the middle of it—the fear, the fog, the panic, the not-recognising-yourself—please know this: you are not broken. You are not failing. You are not stuck like this forever.

It doesn’t disappear overnight. It doesn’t resolve neatly. But it does ease. It does get better.