aspirational homes | the living room

In this post, we are continuing on the series of aspirational homes. These are a series of photographs which I have taken while visiting them and I thought it would be a great idea to share them with you. If you haven't seen the first post about bedrooms, you can read it here. Today, we are focusing on the living room. Living rooms are definitely high traffic areas. A balance of design conscious and practicality is key. By having your furniture appropriate to the scale of the living room and smart storage solutions are just a few ways of achieving this balance. What I have also observed is the styling of coffee tables. Whether it is a vase full of fresh flowers or a stack of coffee table books, it is a great way to create interest and finish off the living room.

Readers, what would be included in your ultimate living space?

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new in | classic button down

ASOS petite shirt

 On the heels of the 'Building the Basic Wardrobe' series, I have started looking into more basic pieces for my wardrobe rather than cheap thrills (also known as that ten dollar that you have never worn). This classic button down top has a tailored fit and will serve me well in the years to come. It is a cotton blend shirt with a three-quarter sleeve. Although I am five foot and three-and-a-half inches, I thought I would still be able to fit into the petite section at ASOS. For those who don't know, the ASOS petite range is made for those 5'3" and under. Despite this, this shirt fit me well. You can purchase this exact shirt here.

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aspirational homes | the bedroom

In the past week, I got the opportunity to look at some houses and their impeccable interior design. What can I say, they were definitely impressive and I couldn't resist the opportunity to take some photographs to share with everyone. Since I did take plenty of photos, I have decided to break them up into different categories so you wouldn't feel like you were reading a large book by the end of the post. 

We spend at least one third of our life in our bedrooms, so it is important to create a space which is intimate yet comfortable. I find that the bedroom is one of the places in your home where you can add the personal touches in order to create an peaceful environment. What the recurring themes I saw in these particular bedrooms where the use of quite large and detailed headboards. These headboards ranged from graphic text to tall, quilted headboards to a parisian chic baroque-inspired headboard. They definitely add some interest to the ordinary bed. Also, bedding and other textiles were not in short supply. Having multiple pillows and cushions create a more comfortable space and it really does feel like you can just dive into bed. Blankets and throws were also a frequent addition to add the finishing touches. 

I am so excited to share my photographs which I have taken in these aspirational homes and spaces over the next week or so. What was your favourite bedroom and what would your dream bedroom look like?

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haul | colette by colette hayman

When a store has 50% off all jewelery, you know you have to take advantage of it and that is what I exactly did. I picked up three items to add to my jewelry collection including two statement necklaces and a bracelet - perfect for arm candy. The first necklace I have been eyeing for a while but I could never justify it because it wasn't versatile for me. However, ever since purchasing it, it is definitely a piece that is great for adding a pop of colour (I know, how cliche can I get?). It also reminds me of J Crew necklaces, but since we don't have it here in Australia this is the closest I am going to get.

There is something about the collar trend that just won't die. Don't even bother looking at me because I don't know either. This trend has translated into statement necklaces as well. This diamante collar necklace is piece great on its own with a simple top. However, I found that it works well under collared tops, especially under the collars of my chambray shirt. It adds the contrast of the casual and ordinary to the dress and glamorous. It is something I definitely recommend for you to try out - it adds a bit of sparkle without it being too much for the daytime.

I also purchased another bracelet because can you ever have too many bracelets? I'm definitely looking forward to featuring this in some of my arm candy. I think I might have to make another stop at Colette soon since their sale is still on. Until then...

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five picks from topshop

from left to right: Flower Calf Skirt (Knitted Colour Block Crop Jumper also pictured), Limited Edition Embellished Shift Dress, Patchwork Print Shift Dress

Well it looks like I have been window shopping online again. Procrastination levels are at an all time high - I should really submit myself for some counselling based on procrastination alone. Topshop is a store which I don't go as often as I would like so that means I am constantly browsing through its online store. In this round of five picks, I have found pieces which would be great for both the spring and fall depending on which hemisphere you exist in.

The floral calf skirt is definitely a flirty yet feminine piece - something I wished I had back in the spring. It is also at a longer length as well which is a definite plus if you are caught in some compromising positions (let's hope that is not the case). Florals are a never ending trend for spring - and as I type this I can hear Miranda Priestly saying "Florals? For Spring? Groundbreaking." The patchwork shift dress has taken a more modern edge. It is a neutral floral with hints of mint placed in a patchwork fashion which works well for the dress. It can be a great dress for the workplace and can easily transition into an outfit for a night out.

left to right: 3D Flower Lace Shirt, MOTO Bleach Acid Wash Oversize Jacket

The lace top featured above is pretty much perfect in my eyes. The lace detailing adds texture to an otherwise plain outfit and creates interest without being too over the top. Other the other hand, this denim jacket would be great for me this season. I have been trying to look for one without any luck. This jacket is just one of many on the market and I hope I can get hands on one soon.

Hopefully you enjoyed this round of five from Topshop. If you have any finds from Tophop, comment down below because I would love to see them.

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