Hi everyone
It’s a little bit of everything today where I talk about what’s been happening and what I plan to talk about in the coming weeks.
Actually I’ll do that first. From Monday I shall be on Instagram every day with a 7day skirt challenge organised by Gail of @is_this_mutton There’ll be skirts like this one and others that are more for everyday.
I’ll show you more of these skirts in a future blog, but if you want to see us doing this challenge you can always look at Instagram – click on the icon on this blog and join me there.
Skirts are, for me, my go-to apparel for the winter. Oh how I love winter clothes – I feel far more myself when wearing skirts and jackets with leggings and boots. When it’s really cold I wear cosy skirts at home always with thick leggings, and when I go out, if the skirt is a little too comfy and not particularly smart, I’ll often change that skirt to go out for a more stylish one particularly if I’m meeting someone for coffee or lunch. But I’ll even do that if I’m just doing some shopping and not taking my coat off. It’s daft, and I know that, but I just cannot go out in something that’s a bit sloppy.
I’m going to follow that with my own 7day coat & jacket challenge. Coats for me are the absolute essence of winter wear, and through buying mainly from charity shops (as new wool coats are astronomically expensive) I have many coats, so I’m able to wear a coat not only according to the weather, but I wear them for my mood especially the colourful ones I have. Like this one.
Just recently I was stopped in the street when I was wearing my beloved yellow jacket, which is so old and cost me all of £5.
Now that is not only a bargain it is one lovely mood lifter and obviously noticeable by others as the person said, ‘what a great colour on such a gloomy day‘. And then she said, ‘why do people always wear dark coloured coats in the winter when it is often dark and gloomy’? She, btw, was wearing a white coat with a lovely teal scarf, teal bootees and a teal plaid skirt – a lovely combination.
I have other coats that are London coats, including a long black one. But what about this one bought recently for £40 which is a quite a price for a charity shop, but hey it is a good quality coat and 100% wool.
Now this is a London coat if ever I saw one. Just wowzer! Do tell me if you have a brightly coloured coat.
As for other things. I am feeling quite frustrated at the pace of my writing. The thing is if I do stuff with family or friends over a weekend my main writing days used to be Monday and Friday. But that Monday writing window has gone now as we go to my son’s house and for over 6 hours we help with his ‘daddy’ day at home while his other half works. Yes, we help with a very, very active Oscar, aged 3-yrs-old, and the little one, Lydia, who is 8 months old. Lydia is no problem as she just needs a little entertaining and occasional holding, or a bottle, and a bath, which we do ourselves now. Sad to say she doesn’t like a bath at all and screams her head off throughout, then the tears disappear and she’s happy again as soon as we have her dried and dressed and away from her torture! But Oscar is a full-time, full-on experience and phew we never stop. We leave exhausted and barely able to put a foot in front of the other! So that’s the writing day gone for the duration. And yet, I know it is a privilege to be with one’s grandchildren and we are happy to both help out and get to know them well.
Tbh, I not only miss writing for this blog I really miss writing for My Other Blog and I have something rattling around my head that I am itching to write. There are things I want to say and I am going to do it in the next few days or so. But whether it will be ready and publishable is another matter. It must sound a bit odd to say ‘I might have something or might not, but that’s the state of my writing at the moment.
The same goes for my plans to write more about my mother and her story. I actually tinkered with it is this week, but with no time to write over the last two weekends or any Monday for some months if not years, what is the first thing I write on the Friday? It’s this blog and not the memoir! Which I am so enjoying btw, and not regretting. I love writing for it. However, I have a whole week booked at Dungeness in the new year, and that’s when I shall do nothing but that story I have of my mother’s life – which I feel must be told.
Anyway, enough of my frustrations. They kind of go with the territory of being actively engaged with family and friends – and who wouldn’t want that.
Another thing I’ve done is have another massive clear-out of my wardrobe. I still might try Ebay but I am mainly using a local dress agency, which has taken some of the clothes, but not all, so off they went to my local charity shop.
But I have gone further than this. I have also been very strict and stern and told myself no more buying clothes. And for over an entire month (9th October to 17th November) I bought no clothes whatsoever. Then I bought the red coat. And nothing since. It’s not just my consumption, which will be good for my pocket and stop me wasting my money, but (and I hesitate to say this) the fashion blogging community is awash with clothes. Well, of course it is, you might reply and who are you to say this? I agree. However, I do think we have to say to ourselves, what is the fashion industry doing to our planet and consequently reduce our consumption.
Having said that, I would like one more pair of jeans but only if the label says it has used less water to manufacture their jeans. So a pair of long boots (probably new) and a pair of jeans (also probably new) will be the entirety of my clothes acquisition this winter. I will still look in charity shops, but I am not going to buy anything other than an amazing quality product, which might also be bargain. And because over these last few weeks I’ve looked with a very discerning eye, time and time again I’ve walked out with nothing – apart from that red coat.
Oh phew, did I sound rather preachy – sorry, I will shut up now. Other news is I intend to get my hair done as it’s actually getting a little long now for the shaggy shorter cut that I am aiming for, so it needs a trim, and I will go to a beauty salon, and oh lawks, it’s Christmas and there are presents to buy.
And today I’m off to get my annual skin/mole check. This time I’m going to a Mole Clinic in Brighton rather than London so it’s just a bus ride away. The check is so necessary as my skin is covered in all sorts of freckles and age spots and goodness knows what else. It needs to be scrutinised – so fingers crossed. Do think about your skin too, and getting it checked, especially if you were a red-head or have sun-bathed a lot in your youth.
Also we’re planning to go to London, to the Tate this time, for an exhibition on revolting women! Actually titled Women in Revolt. Art and Activism in the UK 1970-1990. Looking forward to this as I was quite the activist in those years. We continue to go to our local independent Cinema, The Depot, and on Saturday we showed the last film of the year at the local film society that we help to run, It was Mrs Harris Goes to Paris – which is a lovely film with some great frocks! That was an excuse to wear a fancy skirt, which you’ll see on Instagram soon.
Thanks so much for reading this and tolerating my absence. You will see another blog in two weeks time and it will feature more of my coats and skirts. I will do something about fitness after that, as my arms are looking good what with the weights I do, plus my balance has improved hugely since the beginning of the year – all due to just doing the exercises. I would like to do a YouTube on my makeup but that’s not exactly a promise – it’s an aim!! And I shall of course, write an end of the year review.
Till the next time, with love, Penny, the Frugalfashionshopper
Lovely London coat Penny! I remember a while ago you were wondering what your ‘style’ was. Well there it is encapsulated in that coat – it’s neat, and fitted. Those baggy coats and jackets (Student Union circa 1970s) don’t really do you justice,
But you look a million dollars in that coat, not just because it’s a brilliant coat, but because the shape is right for you. SMB
Thank you so much Sue, and you’re right, those large jackets and what about those mammoth coats with tie belts that look as though you’re wearing a dressing gown – just awful! A coat with a nipped in waist is so much better. You know, that coat was in the window for several weeks and I dithered but fortunately no one else wanted it I guess because of the length. I’m so glad I bought it as it’s a keeper!
Thanks again 🙂
Years ago I bought a Laura Ashley ankle length black wool coat from a CS. I paid £25. A lot at the time. I loved that cost but wearing it whilst driving my car it often got shut in the door,! So I re-donated it but have regretted it ever since. It was smart, classic and so warm. Love your red coat and the orange one so much.
Hello Penny, glad to see you are joining the skirt challenge. We do think alike Winter is much more my style , much more fitted and stylish. You are not alone in changing to go out even if I am just off to the supermarket, I feel its about personal standards.
The new fitted red coat is quite a stunner , well worth the price and you look just stunning in it.
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself with your writing , as you say time with friends and family takes priority. all the best, Jill.
Yes, that skirt challenge is great fun – I’m thinking of following it up with all my coats! And absolutely with you there Jill, I have to be well dressed even for the grocery shopping!
Also you are so right as I nearly didn’t go to this Monday’s session with the grandkids as I had the appointment for the skin check, but apparently Oscar kept asking for me, so I didn’t go home as I planned and do a bit of writing, instead I hopped on a bus and got to them for the afternoon. And I had lovely hug from him as we left. This is so much more important than me sitting staring at my screen!
Thanks Jill 🙂
Great coat! I have a passion for coats too. Latest one from Oxfam Botanic Belfast! Bottle green wool and cashmere mix.
Oooh cashmere and wool – that is a great mix. What a find! I’m so pleased to meet another person who has a passion for coats!
Thanks Toni 🙂
Oh your coats are fabulous especially the red one. I bought a lot less the past months. Just didn’t feel it. We have been to Dungeness two weeks ago, just for a day. Love it there more and more. It must be a inspiring place for writing. Have a great week. Its getting really cold het and I hate it!
The place we stay in, in Dungeness, is so conducive to writing – you’re surrounded by books and it just feels so quiet and cosy. I shall definitely squirrel myself away and write masses.
Getting really cold here too and very very damp.
That coat was such a great find, but like you, I feel rather put off by all this emphasis on new clothes. Will not do that on the blog now for some time to come. Will, as they say, shop my closet!
Thanks so much Nancy 🙂
I don’t own a coat but I have a rainbow of jackets. I don’t really need a coat as it’s usually dry here, in Nice. I don’t wear them because I feel swamped as I’m not tall, 164 cms. I never go out unless I feel I’ve made the effort, when I come home it’s back into my house clothes. I doubt anyone would notice as the house stuff is just an elderly version of my going out stuff. It means my clothes last for ever. I’m getting fed up shopping for clothes, I never thought I’d say that.
Ah I expect Nice is really balmy now. Here it’s very damp so consequently the cold is a biting cold – brrr! But my padded wool coat is enough to keep me warm. isn’t that funny I am fed up at the constant exhortations to buy, buy, buy. Yes, I want, no I need, a pair of boots but that’s precisely all.
Thanks Flora – enjoy your lovely weather 🙂
Great red coat at a great price! I think charity shops must charge a bit more now that the cost of everything has gone up so much. I’ve been cutting back on buying too although I’m still thinking about getting a (used) bright blue coat which I’ve wanted to do for a while. As my time is running out I can’t decide whether it’s just too late or to go for it while I still can! What’s one more item for the charity shop ?I always make an effort with my clothes, make-up etc & I’ll only stop when I absolutely can’t do it any more.
Lynda, If that coat is a lovely bright blue, would suit you and you love it, then please go for it. You’ll feel good wearing it and others will surely be cheered by seeing you in it and looking pleased with yourself.
I agree with you that some charity shops have raised their prices. It’s understandable, I suppose, but it could possibly put people off. While ‘pile ’em high and sell ’em cheap’ doesn’t always mean a bargain, reasonable prices set against increases elsewhere surely encourages the possibility of extra spending? Or perhaps my idea of economics isn’t the norm!
Anyway, go and get that coat, and hang on in there. x
Zepherine
This particular charity shop always prices its items at quite a high level. But you know it is a hospice so really as long as I get exactly what I want I don’t mind. – the charity needs the money. And that coat was a great find.
Do get that bright blue coat – it will never be too late. I bet you’ll look good in it. And yes, always make that effort – I feel the same way.
Thanks Lynda 🙂
Your London coat is amazing, and you look fantastic in it, Penny! I am one of those who buys dreary colors because I just can’t seem to find any in bright colors. But, I can’t remember the last time I bought a new winter coat. And, that yellow coat is definitely a mood booster! Yellow is your color!
I would be exhausted, too, taking care of a three year old and an eight month old. But, how wonderful that you do it. I miss my grands being that age as they lived with us then. Now, they are teenagers.
I need to get busy writing a presentation for March, but I just can’t seem to get motivated. I definitely understand where you’re coming from.
I look forward to any posts you write, Penny!
https://marshainthemiddle.com/
Thanks so much Marsha! Winter coats are very necessary in the UK and long ones particularly if, like most people here, one uses public transport. Our buses are the very best and far better than using a car, consequently that means standing at bus stops, so to keep the cold out the longer the coat the better. And there are a few brightly coloured ones, but most people do buy either black or navy. I now have just one black coat but the rest are in bright colours which I think is the best thing ever on our many grey days!
I’m going to ask permission to put a photo up of the two grandkids. Oh my word, the 3-yr-old is sooooo active!!!
Thanks again Marsha – and I love the fact that you like reading my posts. Same for yours! 🙂
The red coat is fabulous, Penny! Definitely a good coat for London. I also love your orange boucle, which really suits you. I think I may have told you in the past about my mother’s bright cerise/magenta quilted coat. After she died it became mine. It’s the perfect coat for cheering me and those who stop to chat on my dreary-winter-weather walks. I think of her every time I wear it.
A brightly coloured coat is such a cheerful item to wear. And my word people notice you! Your coat sounds amazing. Thanks Jane 🙂
That red coat is just gorgeous Penny! here everyone seems to wear black coats. I confess I have several. I mentioned in an earlier response that I had purchased a blue coat recently. The color is called ” iris”. really a purple blue. so far it has had three outings and each time women have stopped me to tell me how much they liked it. the first outing was to a tour of a winery and lunch north of here in a rather rural area.. It is actually known as hunt country as there are many horse farms there. I wore it on thanksgiving day day as well when the family went out for dinner at a restaurant in Manhattan. As our group walked in the hostess stopped me to admire it. so happy I gave in to my impulse and bought it.
after a few closet clean outs I am left with one winter skirt. actually it can be worn year round as it is a knit and dark navy. I ought to make more of an effort to wear it, it was a bit of an investment and it looks well on me but I seem to fall back on my jeans or a pair of black pants. well, a few pairs of back pants that is. maybe I ought to do my own challenge to see how many ways I can wear the skirt. As always sending love from New York, Darby
Oh, your coat sounds amazing and see how it is good to stand out from the crowd. And also look how people appreciate a colourful coat and notice it.
It’s interesting about the skirt versus pants/jeans/trousers thing. I just don’t find pants warm enough in our really cold weather. I wear thick woolly leggings, wool socks, and then a long usually wool skirt with a petticoat underneath. That’s loads of layers even before the coat gets put on. Like today, it is above freezing, but the dampness of the cold bites into your bones!!! So it’s the layers for me very time.
Hope you had a good Thanksgiving and some nice turkey! Thanks as ever Darby – much love 🙂
I love the red coat on you Penny. A more fitted style really suits you beautifully.
Thank you so much Charmaine 🙂