WG Blog Tales
Take a walk on the wild side … How to wear & style animal print accessories in your wardrobe
By @countryclassicslucninda
Both adored and avoided, animal print can be a controversial wardrobe topic. Whilst many will shy away from the vibrant prints, or bold statement, others bask in its beauty.
I haven’t always loved animal print. Everyone has to start somewhere and there was a time when I too would shy away from adding any prints into my outfit. There is often this idea that if you go for animal print with your outfit, it’s going to be incredibly overpowering, and shadow the rest of the outfit. I think some people have seen animal print also done wrong, and that image haunts them when looking at how versatile the print can actually be in a wardrobe.
Animal print will always be in style, and it comes back year after year, guaranteeing a timeless, classic piece if you look to add into your wardrobe. With animal print speaking for itself, you can utilise this print to add a subtle statement and finishing touch to a more simple outfit. With increased confidence, you’ll find yourself mixing and matching in no time at all!
When starting out with animal print, it can often be tricky to know where to begin. Once you get to know the prints, it can be one of the most simple and easy ways to add some personality to your outfit. Whilst at the start, it can often feel daunting, and easy to get wrong.
I’ve curated some of my top tips to get you started, followed by some of my must have items to get your wardrobe set up!
🌿 Top Tips for Styling Animal Print 🌿
🐆 Don’t over do it, you don’t need an outfit full of prints. Try to just pick a statement piece.
🐄 Do tone it down. You can use simple pieces or block colours to tone down the rest of your outfit.
🐆 Don’t clash prints. Try to stick to just one single animal print within your outfit.
🐄 Do experiment with what you like. Try different prints and colours to find your favourite.
🐆 Don’t try to match everything. Stick to matching no more than 3 accessories in a print. I would recommend 2.
🐄 Do subtly match accessories. Match a belt and bag, shoes and belt, or bag and shoes.
🐆 Don’t let your selection overpower the whole outfit. Pick out colours from the print to bring your outfit together.
🐄 Do feel confident. Animal print is a subtle statement. Own your choice – you look amazing!
🐆 Don’t feel intimidated if you’re just starting out! There are lots of prints out there and lots of different styles. There is something for everyone, and every style.
Starting is where the fun begins …
You know some of my top tips, now lets have a look at some of my favourite pieces to get you started with!
🌿 Must Have Animal Print Items 🌿
Animal print is such a fun way to add some personality into your outfits. Whether you’re well established wearing prints, or you’re just starting out, I have the perfect items to add into your wardrobe. These products are all tried and tested by myself, they are things I have had in my wardrobe in some cases, years, and love to style. They are pieces I know are really good quality, and that I can genuinely recommend from using and wearing countless times myself!
Accessories and footwear are definitely the easiest place to begin with animal print. Both subtle and easy to style, you can build your accessories to create more of a statement, or keep it simple with a single talking point of one accessory. Stick to my top tips above when choosing your accessories for a flawless look.
My best advice is to have fun with it!
🐄 Cow Print … 🐄
This is such an easy print to style, and a really great place to start! Cow print can be much more understated than some of the others, and it will always fit seamlessly into any country wardrobe. If you’re looking for somewhere to start, this is it!
Considered to have a slightly Western undertone – this print has never gone out of fashion, being a popular choice for many, year in year out.
Considered relatively effortless to style, it makes sense that this print works its way into the Country wardrobe with ease. Styling cow print is often easier because whilst it is bold and attention grabbing, it is made up of neutrals, meaning it will often compliment all other colours your outfit may be made up of. When you want to add a little something extra to your outfit, without adding bright, block colour accessories, this is a great alternative.
COW PRINT FOOTWEAR
An easy way to add some animal print to your Summer outfits is through your footwear. Slides are so popular right now, and considered a wardrobe essential for many. Whether you’re off on holiday, popping out for the day, or slipping them on for some time in the garden, they are an easy addition to add into any wardrobe.
Styling for print footwear is simple. Neutral colours will compliment brown print, and monochrome outfits will compliment black print. If you opt for a simple outfit or dress, you can let your shoes speak for themselves. These are a great addition if you’ve got a staycation coming up, or even when we can travel a little further afield, they will make a perfect capsule wardrobe item. When packing for holiday, team with a linen shirt and shorts for a casual day look, and why not try with a maxi dress for the evening!
The Safari slides from Welligogs perfectly capture the need for an essential footwear, whilst adding the luxury of a pony hair upper. Designed with comfort in mind, the 5cm sole is created from natural cork, with a rubber sole, for durability as well as comfort. These are available in UK sizes 4-7, and also available in 3 other animal prints if you have a different preference!
CCL Style Tip: Team with some relaxed fit shorts and a linen shirt for the perfect safari outfit style.
Perfect for: Someone wanting an easy go to, whilst introducing animal print into their wardrobe.
Floral Tunics to Swish In
All we’ve got to say this summer is...bright, bold and beautiful.
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Our new range of tunics make us so excited to be outside and blending in with nature! We guarantee that these lightweight linen garments will be your new favorite way to kick back and relax in the garden or around the house.
These flowing garments can be worn over trousers or shorts, and sit comfortably low on the shoulders, perfect for catching those summer rays. Not only are they gorgeous, but they’re also perfectly practical designs that come in one size and are easily machine washable. A roomy pocket means you can tuck away your valuables whilst out and about.
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The colours we’re flaunting are: Turquoise, Wheat, Pale Blue, Fuchsia, & Rose. For a lowkey, wear-with-anything look, we suggest pairing the whimsical Wheat Floral Tunic with our Porto Sand Suede Trainer - a versatile and comfortable shoe.
For a more eye-catching look, the fuchsia tunic is a vibrant choice, best teamed with a contrasting jacket like the Knightsbridge in Aquamarine.
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We, at WG, work hard to ensure that all of our products are lasting designs that are feminine, comfortable and versatile.
Flow with us this summer!
We have some thrilling news...our favorite dress range is bursting with colour as we've added more shades that’ll shake up your wardrobe!
We’ve been working tirelessly to ensure that each shade represents us as a brand, and you as a customer. Our breathtakingly light and flowing dresses come in: Blue, Fuchsia, Rose, Silver, Turquoise, Wheat & White. We know what you’re thinking...one of each please??
Pictured here @charlotte.in.england
We guarantee you that once you pop one of these on, you’ll be feeling as young and carefree as you did when you were just six years old. Not only will you feel like frolicking around outside, but these delights will keep the sun at bay, whilst also providing breathability and comfort.
The cotton/linen blend is as light as air and its versatility means that you can wear it in three different ways; strappy dress for warmer days, dress with the top for coverage, and the top alone to wear with jeans or trousers.
For inspiration, many of our dresses look fabulous with our Porto Summer Footwear Range; summer designs that are long lasting and breathable. Our flowy dresses also look ravishing with a range of our jackets, our Knightsbridge Aquamarine Jacket would contrast perfectly with our Fuschia Layered Dress.
We, at WG, work hard to ensure that all of our products are lasting designs that are feminine, comfortable and versatile.
Pink Outfit Ideas
Blush Layered Dress Top:
Potentially the most versatile piece ever. The WG Blush Layered Dress, also available in a wider selection of shades, can be worn in multiple ways. The base dress can be worn with the given t-shirt style top, on its own as a lightweight Summer outfit, or as demonstrated in this outfit the top can be worn alone with other garments in your wardrobe. Three outfits in one!
Here we have styled the Blush Layered Dress Top with our classic Odette Khaki Waterproof Coat, totally fool-proof and utterly chic, and the Sand Suede Trainers featured in our newly expanded Porto Collection, this style and shade suit every individuals’ style and outfit combinations.
This outfit would be stunning on an evening walk around the village, visiting friends near and far, and a simple day shopping and snacking.
Andalucia Pink Wool Coat:
Our favourite new coat for SS21, the WG Andalucia Pink Wool Coat, is a feminine dream with a stunning streamlined silhouette. Made with an 80% wool blend it provides breathability and is the perfect throw on coat on those chillier days.
In this instance, we have styled this fabulous coat with our multifunctional Layered Dress in Pastel Blue, this can be worn in countless ways, and our Navy Heeled Espadrille Sandals from our recently expanded Porto Collection, these can be purchased in a selection of stunning colours.
This outfit would be perfect for a morning browsing around your favourite shops, a celebration with friends and family, or a glorious barbecue in the sun.
Ascot Rose Pink Fitted Jacket:
A Spring/Summer suited edition of our classic Ascot Fitted Jacket in a heavenly Rose Pink shade featuring a nod to history with the WG signature military cuff – a jacket of outstanding quality and unbelievable versatility!
This piece can be styled in many ways, yet we have paired it with our Black Merino Wool Roll Neck Jumper, a luxurious dream, and the Multi-Stripe Heeled Espadrille Sandals from our newly expanded Porto Collection, a stunning vibrant shoe.
We adore this outfit for an alfresco dining date, strolling around your favourite museum, or catching up with friends in the garden.
Blush Layered Dress:
Our adaptable SS21 staple, the WG Blush Layered Dress, is the perfect purchase to be worn in a number of ways and for various occasions. The lightweight fabric is ideal for warmer days yet can be easily layered if faced with a slight summer breeze.
We have styled this dreamy dress with our favourite Safari Sandals in Zebra Print, also available in a variety of animal prints, and the Panama Style Hat, a sunny weather must-have. Maximum comfort yet an overload of fashion-forward styling.
This outfit is an amazing Spring/Summer go-to for days outdoors, walking around a beautiful city, and enjoying a sunny holiday.
Ascot Sunrise Fitted Jacket:
A garment from our new Spring/Summer 2021 collection, the WG Ascot Sunrise Jacket offers both sophistication and fun within a fashionable item. This lightweight wool blend jacket features our signature WG military cuff and an utterly flattering mandarin collar.
Here we have styled the Ascot Sunrise Jacket with our staple Phoebe Gold Shirt, featuring the most divine detailing, and our exquisite Boho Feather Ear Cuff, made from Guinea Fowl and Grouse Feather it is unbelievably luxurious and a true statement accessory.
This outfit is perfect for watching the horse racing with friends, a night visiting a fabulous art exhibit, or dressing up for a celebration.
Monte Carlo Pink Roses Shirt:
Our WG Monte Carlo Pink & White Roses Shirt is the perfect piece to fulfil your Spring/Summer fashion needs yet still providing coverage and warmth on those chillier days. As this shirt is 100% Organic Cotton, it allows for breathability and comfort throughout all seasons.
We have styled this shirt with our fabulous Roxy Navy Wax Gilet, designed to keep you both warm and dry, and our Porto Navy Heeled Espadrilles, the most perfect footwear during this time of year. For a more relaxed vibe, our Navy Suede Trainers, would do just the trick. This outfit is unbelievably versatile and can easily be paired with jeans, leggings, a skirt – the possibilities are endless!
This outfit could be worn casually ticking off your to-do list, popping out for an afternoon coffee, or having divine cocktails in the Spring sunshine!
Pink Floral Cotton Shirt:
An all-year round favourite! The WG Pink Floral Cotton Shirt is an ideal layering piece for every spot of weather. This lightweight garment can be worn in a formal setting tucked into wide leg trousers and a pair of heels or thrown over a basic t-shirt with your favourite pair of denim jeans.
On this occasion, the Pink Floral Cotton Shirt has been paired with our Roxy Contrast Wax Gilet, a Spring staple, our Ranger Waterproof Boots, essential for the unpredictable British weather, and our Chocolate Brown Fedora, the chicest addition to any outfit no matter the season.
This outfit would be perfect for a sunset stroll, a picnic on a chiller day, or a visit to your stable friends!
Pink and Navy Floral Shirt:
Amongst our staple shirt collection, the WG Pink & Navy Floral Shirt offers a classic style yet with a subtle inner pop of print and colour. The 100% Organic Cotton can be worn all-year round due to its breathability and ability to be layered as desired.
Paired with of Savannah Blue/Pink Coat, this classic shirt is elevated into an elegant and sophisticated outfit whilst being super comfortable when worn with our beloved Mayfair Navy Suede & Leather Waterproof Boots – an outdoor lover’s dream footwear!
Picture this outfit on an afternoon picnic date, strolling around the fields, or visiting your favourite outdoor market.
Dusky Pink Wool Roll Neck Jumper:
Our Merino Wool Roll Neck Jumpers are a luxurious staple in any wardrobe. These pieces are a great way to introduce or continue sustainability into your fashion styling as they are produced using 100% British Wool, a renewable fibre, and are available in a number of classic colours.
The Dusky Pink Merino Wool Roll Neck Jumper has been styled with our esteemed WG Venice Pale Blue Fitted Jacket, the most flattering and wearable outerwear, and the essential WG Mayfair Leather & Suede Waterproof Boots in Chocolate Brown, a British weather necessity.
Pure Silk Scarf:
Our Pure Silk Scarves are the perfect way to boost the most simple of outfits. This piece can be worn with a pair of jeans and a crisp white shirt or over your favourite swimsuit whilst in the sun.
We have styled the Fuchsia Pink Silk Scarf with our charming Phoebe White Shirt, a classic style with a hint of unique detailing, and the Porto Coral Flat Espadrille Sandals, a fabulous pop of colour in an ideal Spring/Summer shoe.
We envision this outfit sipping something fizzy with friends, strolling around your favourite gardens, or sitting on a park bench with a good book.
Our Eco Journey
Here are some of the steps we are taking on our path to being more sustainable.
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Whilst we try and make as many eco conscious choices as possible, we are still learning and growing everyday. The last thing we want to do is damage our fabulous planet, that's why product quality, customer loyalty and sustainability is at the forefront of our decision making. We believe that transparency is the key to maintaining a strong reputation.
Q&A with Tess Annan
Tess Annan, daughter of Kim and Ray (Founders), pictured here with Shappa, their dog.
How different is the company now to when it started back in 2000?
"To be honest, it’s done a real 360. Up until now, we’ve been one of the leading providers of waterproof country gear, with a unique twist, but originally we specialised in hand painted wellingtons and raincoats. The original company name, Welligogs, harks back to the founder’s childhood name for her wellington boots. The designs were bright and fun and completely original. Now, along with our more traditional wax jacket and leather waterproof boots, you will find dresses, sandals and loungewear in our collection. However, in the past couple of years, we have gone back to our roots. We have revived some heritage designs from the wellies, reincarnating them into sustainable socks and activewear."
How is working in fashion different today to when WG was just starting out?
"It is a faster, less empathetic market and that is mainly down to the internet. Since we moved away from rubber wellies to higher quality wax jackets and leather boots, we have always prized ourselves in providing top quality products made from natural materials. The internet has allowed the world to accommodate fast fashion and now, the competition isn’t just for well produced seasonal goods but for cheap, harmful garments (environmentally speaking) that have a shelf life of 2-3 weeks. Although we are starting to see a real change in attitude from people who want to be more fashion conscious and opt to buy fewer, better quality products, the want for a one-night Insta outfit is still huge. We hope that one day, people will be less driven to get quick satisfaction for a single night and think of the longevity of a piece of clothing and where it can take you in the years to come."
Why did you move away from wellington boots and towards more luxury leather boots and tailored coats/jackets?
"Mainly because we wanted to offer our customers a higher quality product that was made closer to home. We now look to source as much as possible from the UK or Europe. We have a lot more control of the supply chain of our garments, we regularly visit our factories to make sure the quality and conditions are of the highest standards. By sourcing locally, we are able to make our carbon footprint as small as possible."
How is WG unique?
"We provide quality products with a distinctive flare. We have a traditional British quality to our core range but are renowned for our detailing and interesting signature features. For example, the majority of our wool jackets have a signature contrast cuff, collar and pocket detail, and our waterproof coats tend to be a more fitted cut with contrast notes that flatter the feminine silhouette. With our new sustainable activewear range, we have designed a performance based workout set made from recyclable materials with heritage WG prints and features."
Where do you get your design inspiration from?
"Our surroundings mostly. The British countryside, it’s rich reds and chestnuts in autumn, the bright colours of flowers you would find on a summer day in a country garden. In 2018, we sent our design team to Mexico to get some different ideas. There is a whole piece about what inspired them, you can read it here."
What’s your favorite WG piece at the moment?
"Ooo, it’s tricky. Probably the Putney Blazer. I adore it. We were inspired by traditional gentlemen's smoking jackets. It’s 100% cotton velvet, a slightly longer line, with the most marvellous paisley print. The print is subtle and catches the light beautifully, it looks black to begin with but as you look at it more closely, you pick up the mutlicoloured hues. It’s finished off with our signature features, the WG cuff, pocket and collar detail. Simply sublime."
"The cut. Our customers always feedback to us how gorgeously feminine they find them. Traditional British wax jackets tend to be boxy and shapeless for women. Our Louise and Odette are based on the Edwardian riding jacket, the adjustable waist would have been the ladies corset, bringing her in at the waist and the fishtail back would have gone over the saddle."
When did you first become interested in sustainability?
"It really began when we transferred from rubber to leather back in 2006. But it has really come into its own in the past three years."
Can you tell us a little about how WG aims to do as much as it can to help save the planet?
"Being a small family business we have a lot more control over our carbon footprint than bigger companies and can be super vigilant with the supply chain. We try to visit our factories and make sure the conditions for the workers are up to scratch. We physically see and inspect how garments are made, this is quite rare as the number of companies that actually go and see their productions are quite small. We also opt for natural, regenerative materials and fabrics for our products as much as possible. We are always looking for innovative ways to create products in a more sustainable way. We have managed to now use recycled sole units on our footwear, made from first generation plastic, and are investigating using natural beeswax to waterproof our garments over traditional wax. We also have small, quality collections we bring out twice a year instead of going down a fast fashion path. We try our best to not only use sustainable resources in our garments, but also in our office resources. We make sure to use recycled paper for our printer in the office and in our day to day note taking, as well as having eco friendly printers that use less energy and ink than normal printers. Wherever possible, we recycle our delivery boxes, if they are in good condition and for our swing tickets and neck labels, we use eco-friendly cards or recycled materials."
How does WG manage waste?
"We try and reuse as much as possible. We repack our coats in their original plastic, providing the condition is still good. We reuse our cardboard boxes when sending out our orders, again providing they are in good condition. We don’t throw out paper, unless we have to, we use it as notepaper in the office. We try and give things as much of a life as possible, our coat hangers see many different coats."
What are WG’s core values?
"Durable, long lasting products that don’t compromise style or silhouette designed with our customers and the planet in mind. We care about the effect our business has on the planet, we care about our customers and their journey when they buy from us. We want to promote and support local businesses wherever possible and we care that the products we create are beautiful and unique."
Kim & Ray Annan (Welligogs Founders), Tess Annan and Shappa their dog.
Buy Seasonal Produce
As a company that really promotes sustainability and supporting the community, we thought it would be great to take a look at how we can be more green, and more resourceful when buying food.
One of the best ways of ensuring a lowered carbon footprint is to buy seasonal produce, grown and cultivated in the UK. Here are some of the reasons why buying local, and buying seasonal can not only reap benefits for the environment, but also for the individual:
Environment
British food travels far less from farm to shop than most imported foods, which means you're cutting out a big portion of the transportation journey and reducing energy and impact on the environment.
Nutritional Benefits
Local, seasonal foods tend to be fresher, tastier and full of nutrients. Eating the foods that are seasonal will give your body the elements that it needs at that particular time of the year. Unlike some meats from other countries, British meat tends not to have any growth-promoting hormones and is produced to some of the highest welfare standards in the world. You will also have the assurance of knowing what you are eating. Britain has some of the most robust food assurance and traceability systems in the world.
Supporting the Economy
Supporting the local economy is incredibly important. You’ll be able to do your part in supporting the farmer, those who work in food processing, the local shopkeeper and the pubs and restaurants selling the food. In recent years, there’s been a real push in supporting our farmers, and now since food transport is so easy, we need to think about the farming communities closer to home.
Variety
The variety of food that the UK produces is amazing, each season has something different and delicious to try, with a million different recipes for each one. From root vegetables to ripe delicious fruit, as a country we’re hardly lacking in diversity! If you’re looking for something new and different to try, we have compiled our favorite recipes in one place!
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Spring |
Summer |
Autumn |
Winter |
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Beef steaks Sausages Chicken Spring lamb Asparagus Carrots Cauliflower Celeriac Cucumber Kale Purple sprouting broccoli Savoy cabbage Sorrel Spinach Spring greens Spring onions Watercress Gooseberries Rhubarb Crab Haddock John dory Lobster Mackerel Monkfish Prawns Sea bass Sea salmon Trout Turbot |
Beef steaks Burgers Chicken Ham Lamb Pork pies Pork spare ribs Saltmarsh lamb Sausages Venison Beetroot Broad beans Carrots Cauliflowers Courgettes Cucumber Fennel Fresh peas Garlic Green beans Lettuce and salad leaves New potatoes Radishes Runner beans Sage Salad onions Squash Tomatoes Watercress Blueberries Currants Elderflower berries Greengages Loganberries Plums Raspberries Strawberries Tayberries Crab Pilchards Wild salmon
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Chicken Grouse Ham Heather-fed lamb Pies Pork Roasts Sausages Venison Field mushrooms Lettuce Marrow Potatoes Pumpkin Rocket Squashes Sweetcorn Watercress Apples Blackberries Damsons Elderberries Pears Plums Sloes Brill Dabs Dover sole Flounders Oysters Skate |
Casseroles Chicken Gammon Goose Partridge Pheasant Pies Roasts Sausages Turkey Venison Wild duck Bay leaves Brussels sprouts Cabbage Carrots Cauliflower Celeriac Curly kale Fennel Leeks Parsnips Potatoes Red cabbage Swede Turnips Apples Pears Quince Grey mullet Mussels scallops
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Springtime
Here’s a few things we love to do as we transition into Spring…
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First of all...Easter! Nothing welcomes spring better than easter egg hunts, gifting your loved ones and making cute crafts with the kids.
One of our favourite bakes is this glorious easter cake with, of course, a mountain of mini eggs for decoration… Treat the family with some home baking which will keep everyone happy, and on a constant sugar buzz!
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As well as baking, we love the traditional easter egg hunt. Hide chocolates of every shape and size in little nooks and crannies and everyone will be running around like headless chickens!
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The Scavenger hunt is just as fun if not more so, you can hide clues around your garden and everyone will be searching for less traditional treats. In fact, the more specific and random, the better. An example of this is a colour scavenger hunt, where you’ll have examples of the colour you want, and everyone has to run around and find anything that matches that colour, it could be a pebble, flower or even a gnome!
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If the weather isn’t perfect, then you can always take the activities indoors with some arts and crafts. Dress up some eggs to make them beautiful or create little spoon bunnies that the children can play puppets with. The possibilities are truly endless.
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If you want to enjoy the changing seasons, then spending a day in the countryside is the perfect plan. Take a stroll through some farmlands to watch the lambs gambole, and the daffodils sprouting, the true epitome of spring. Take a picnic, but always remember to pick up your litter!
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Not only are we looking forward to spending more time outdoors, but we can now properly plan our gardening efforts. Plant some flower seeds in that overgrown patch (remember to weed first) and expect a beautiful vista of budding bulbs in a matter of weeks! If you’re a beginner then start with some easy veggies that aren’t too high maintenance. Some of these veggies are: beetroot, salad leaves, tomatoes, potatoes, peas, radishes and courgettes. A little bit of patience, love and green fingers will go a long way!
Mother's Day with @mud_on_my_mulberry
We caught up with Andrea (mud_on_my_mulberry) to discuss the day that celebrates our lovely mums.
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What does Mother's Day mean to you?
As a new mum (well a year in now!) I guess it’s a love and a bond like no other, watching your child develop and grow into a little person is so rewarding and just fascinating to see.
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What does Mother's Day mean to you?
A day of family coming together for all the mums, step mums, grandmas, great grandmas, aunty’s, pretend auntys, and remembering those special to us who aren’t with us any more. It’s certainly a day of celebration in our family.
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What is your ideal Mother's Day outfit?
We always dress up for Mother’s Day, Christmas Day etc, we put on our Sunday best, so usually a nice top, jeans and some heels.
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What is your ideal Mother's Day meal?
A roast for sure! My dad is the king of the roast potato, so usually on days like this we gather around mum and dads and have a big roast all together, usually fighting for the end of the meat or the crispiest potato!
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How does your ideal Mother's Day play out?
Ooooh, well, ideally I’d have had a good nights sleep with Andy offering to see to Grace if she wakes, then breakfast in bed maybe, I’ve got really into pancakes lately, then an easy morning, and as I said, We tend to gather at mum and dad's for a roast dinner. We have a couple of drinks and all just chat and catch up. My nephew is usually entertaining us with something new and of course we now have Grace, who loves a crowd and everyone fights over Grace cuddles because they have hardly seen her since she was born. It’s not going to be the same over zoom this year! :-(
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We thank Andrea for taking the time to talk to us and for the lovely images she captured with gorgeous baby Grace. Andrea wears our Odette Khaki Coat, Camel Roll Neck Jumper, Sand Suede Trainers & Brown Herringbone Bakerboy Hat.
Yoga To Improve Your Running
Running can be really tough, especially if you’re a first timer. Getting into the groove and building up those muscles can seem almost impossible, but it isn’t!
Interestingly, doing other forms of exercise can really help you start your cardio journey. Interestingly enough, yoga can be one of the best ways for you to build muscle and flexibility, strengthen your breathing and even prevent you from injuring yourself whilst running. Here’s why Yoga will make you a better runner.
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Strength:
By building up your strength on the mat and developing your key muscles like the core, hamstrings, quads and hip flexors, you’re more likely to stay injury free when out on a run. It can also maintain good posture and back health, as stretches like down dog and cat cow can reduce pain in the spine.
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Breathing:
In yoga, breathing is a vital part of your practice and learning to maintain your breath whilst in challenging positions can be difficult. Through this practice of regulating your breath you become more aware of your body and consolidate a relaxed state of mind. Building up your lung capacity through breath control in yoga can help you an infinite amount when you're running. You’ll be able to increase your oxygen intake naturally and reduce anxiety with breath control. Most of the time in running, the issue can be your mind, not your body.
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Heart:
Intense yoga, like Power Yoga or Hot Yoga can do wonders to strengthen your heart. By improving your fitness through challenging postures in yoga, you’re building your heart into a stronger muscle. Common sense says that stronger muscles are inherently good, that’s undeniable. The heart will work better by pumping blood around your body more efficiently and allowing you to work better under stress, it’s a no brainer.
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Flexibility and Posture:
By maintaining poses for long periods of time in yoga, you're building elasticity in your muscles and joints, which will enable you to move with more freedom and grace. The mental challenge of holding a pose in yoga also translates into running when you’re fighting to maintain your concentration on putting one foot in front of the other. Good flexibility and posture will not only lower your risk of injury, but will also give you more freedom of movement to allow you to carry on and not give up. Loosening up those muscles after having not done any exercise for a while can be tough! Stretching is key.
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Mental Health:
Yoga allows you to build a stronger relationship between the mind and body. Sometimes stillness can be as powerful a tool as movement; stillness in yoga can be just as strengthening as 10 minutes on a treadmill. By exercising mindful breathing and focusing on the present, you are training your mind to push the limits and forgetting your daily worries and anxieties.
It’s so important to recognise that you are not a machine; learn to accept that some days, your body will allow itself to be pushed harder than on other days. Be kind to yourself and accept that it might take awhile before you can master the crow or run 10k.
It’s important to note, that whilst yoga can soften your muscles after a long run or get you limber before a sprint, you shouldn’t push yourself too much on both at once. There are millions of yoga tutorials out there, ranging from a relaxed class to a more vigorous Power Yoga Flow. If you’re pushing yourself running, then perhaps a beginner’s Hatha Yoga would suit better to stretch and take care of your body. However, if you’re looking to strengthen your muscles and become a serious yogi, then an intermediate Vinyasa Yoga could be an excellent choice.
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Yoga flow for stretching with @madss
A daily stretch flow with our lovely @madss to help you become supple and fluid…
Our Favourite Dog Walking Spots
Staffordshire - Kinver Edge
There is an abundance of trails to explore at Kinver Edge. There are many routes you and your furry best friend could take, exploring enchanting woodland, glorious open country, ancient hill forts, as well as the rock houses that are infamous in this area. There are plenty of quiet trails here where your dog can roam freely, but bear in mind that it is a sensitive wildlife habitat. There is also a tea room, but dogs must remain outside. There’s plenty of area to picnic outside, but you can also visit the nearby The Cross Inn.
Snowdonia - Beddgelert
Beddgelert is a popular walking destination at the heart of snowdonia, the delightful stone-built village is the ideal base for exploring all the classic sights and beauty spots. It offers walkers of all abilities the opportunity to go out and explore the wonderful views, wildlife and habitats that make Snowdonia so special. With beautiful trails through the forestry and up to greater heights, both walker and dog are sure to have a great time.
Monmouthshire - Hay on Wye
For anyone interested in the open moorland of Mid-Wales, where red kites might be spotted wheeling overhead, Hay on Wye could be the perfect dog walking spot for you. The route’s crowning glory is its end point at Plynlimon, the highest point in the Cambrian Mountains and the source of the Wye river. Here, you’ll spy the five heads of Plynlimon and see out across Wales all the way to the coastline on a clear day. Check out The Granary as a dog friendly cafe where you can refuel after a walk!
New Forest National Park
With beautiful walking trails, the New Forest is a lowland national park which means no large mountains, just beautiful scenery and wide trails through ancient woodland and open country. It’s a beautiful landscape with lots of villages, good visitor facilities and excellent rail and road links. Given the accessible nature of this landscape it’s small wonder that the New Forest has been welcoming visitors since the early nineteenth century. As a National Park it is important to be as accessible as possible so everyone can enjoy this fabulous place.
Balmacara Estate - Isle of Skye
Just 3 miles from the Isle of Skye, you can explore the beautiful Highland crofting estate of Balmacara. The forms of agriculture that are used here are small scale and low intensity, which has great environmental benefits as well as defining the social system of highland communities. Balmacara woods is perfect for families and dog walkers, there are easy walks among the trees and splendid views from the hillside above the woods. Follow the Tree-Spotter trail to explore the dense woodland, or venture further for exquisite views. Take the Skye View trail that winds through the trees to reach the site of a World War II gun battery, which protected the military camp and port at Loch Alsh from air attack by German planes. You'll also see some spectacular views of Loch Alsh, Kintail and the Isle of Skye.
Cornwall St. Agnes & Wheal Coates.
If you head up to St Agnes Beacon, astonishing views welcome you at the top of the hill where guards used to be stationed during the Napoleonic Wars to look out for French ships. The breathtaking 360-degree view is one of the best in Cornwall, and the coastal paths are perfect for any length of dog walk. After you’ve explored the iconic engine houses and mining relics of Wheal Coates, continue along the path to the coastline and downwards toward Porthtowan where you can enjoy some fresh seafood, a stone baked pizza, or a pint at Blue Bar where dogs are perfectly welcome.
Sustainability
Being a small family company, gives us agency over the big decisions, as well as the smaller ones. We regularly inspect how our garments are made which is rare in itself, and we have a lot of control over the supply chain. We choose natural, regenerative materials and fabrics whenever we can and we’re always looking for innovative ways to create products in a more sustainable way. Our high quality materials are designed to last.
Our Wool:
Our wool jumpers and loungewear are made from raw materials and all natural fibres. As part of our journey to provide sustainable fashion, the IWTO (International Wool Textile Organisation)"wool is all natural, renewable fibre". Our 100% chunky soft merino wool jumper is a traditional guernsey style piece. It’s an incredibly warm item, originally worn by sailors due to its practicality.
Our new loungewear sets are made with a merino wool and cashmere blend, made from the wool of Kashmir goats, our merino wool is our most luxurious yarn. Kashmir goats produce their fine long hair in very small quantities, which makes this pure cashmere very rare and luxurious. A pure cashmere jumper can feel as light as air, however it can be up to eight times as warming as ordinary wool. Our method is to weave two threads together to create the yarn, which makes it stronger and more pliable than other high street jumpers. Our 100% merino wool is also a luxurious yarn which is also all natural, renewable fibre.
Our Cotton:
Producing cotton can take its toll on the world, particularly as the majority of cotton is grown in countries facing water shortages. According to the World Economic Forum, water scarcity has been recognised as one of the top 10 global risks to society we’re facing over the next 10 years. Because of this, we use 100% organic cotton in our shirts which has significantly fewer negative impacts on water than non-organic. Farmers use natural methods like composting to fertilise their soil, which makes it healthier and more likely to soak up water and retain it when there is a drought. Pesticides are banned from organic farming, therefore less water is used in the process, because there is no need to dilute the chemicals from the soil. And finally, organic farmers rely on rainfall to water their cotton, so that they don’t put pressure on precious water resources in local communities.
Our Waterproof Garments:
We only opt for waterproofing methods that use eco-friendly process. We are continually investigating innovative ways to waterproof garments that are more sustainable, such as using: beeswax, coconut wax or wax made from recycled plastic. This is still in the early stages but we are excited about what techniques are being discovered.
Our Recycled Polyester and Rubber:
Our sustainable activewear is made from recycled plastic bottles, which means that we avoid manufacturing virgin polyester and contributing towards already saturated landfills. We’re using 30% less water in our manufacturing process, saving natural resources and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
Our trainers and some of our short boots use sole units that are made from 80% recycled materials, taking out of what would go into landfill and reconstructing it to be useful footwear that will last.
Our Leather:
The leather we use is a bi-product of the meat and dairy industry, taking the skins that would have usually been waste and turning them into something useful. We opt to use sustainable dying process when colouring our leather like Veg Tan, which avoid chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Opting to use natural products like leather and suede as opposed to faux leather and suede, means it is quicker and easier for it to breakdown.
Recycled Office Resources:
We try our best to not only use sustainable resources in our garments, but also in our office resources. We make sure to use recycled paper for our printer in the office and in our day to day note taking, as well as having eco friendly printers that use less energy than normal printers. Wherever possible, we recycle our delivery boxes if they are in good condition and for our swing tickets and neck labels, we use eco-friendly cards or recycled materials.