This week, we are delighted to have teamed up with Instagram style blogger Lady of the Manor, Hayley Karseras for this journal piece. The savvy social media icon is a lifestyle consultant and style blogger who loves gardening and lives in a gorgeous country manor house in Buckinghamshire with her husband and two children.
Read on to discover her take on some pieces from our latest Summer collection…
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Hello Cotswold Collection ladies! It’s so great to be here as a guest blogger.
When I was asked to choose some pieces from Cotswold Collections summer range, I was so excited! Being a country girl who is most happy in my garden I wanted pieces that were classic, comfortable and stylish. I didn’t let trends sway me but kept to my wardrobe mantra of ‘keep it simple’ and I chose key pieces to build an easy capsule wardrobe that can be styled different ways, season to season, year on year.
I was spoilt for choice with the summer range but I’ve pulled together a few of my favourites to share with you as well as show you how I would style them here at home.
I believe clothes have to work for you; they should fit with your lifestyle while feeling effortless and comfortable. If you wear something new and it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t for you. However, the pieces from Cotswold Collections felt like I’d already had them in my wardrobe for years as they’re so beautifully made, comfortable and stylish.
My first choice had to be these gorgeous navy trousers. I have styled them here with a blazer and simple heels. They are so versatile; I would be as happy in a pair of heels and a silk camisole with them for an evening out, as I would be wearing them with some flat shoes and a navy polo-neck top in the garden. The high waist makes me feel held in but with a lovely loose, long leg. They are definitely a wardrobe staple for me!
I was given this young rose bush for my birthday last year and my lovely mother (who lives next door) has been teaching me how to prune it back. There couldn’t be a more perfect outfit for the task than this stunning palm print belted dress! It’s smart and sophisticated while not being too dressy or fussy. I love its khaki green print and it’s a lovely nod to the timeless safari style we see every year on the fashion pages. It would look as stunning paired with a blazer for a formal occasion too.
I love this fun and chic summery maxi skirt. It’s effortless... Unlike the yew hedge in my garden! I have teamed it with a simple white t-shirt for a casual, but finished look on warmer days. I think it would be equally as beautiful if paired with a pink knitted cardigan on cooler evenings. This piece makes me think of holidays and would be the perfect piece to take away with you.
This stunning pink and blue print dress is made of the softest jersey fabric and is certainly another wardrobe staple for me. It’s an easy styling solution that is simple, but also wonderfully classy and sophisticated with minimal effort. The classic cut could easily be styled with a big hat and some heels for a summer wedding or dress it down with a pair of loafers and a cardigan for a family BBQ.
Pearls, prosecco... and THE most fabulous blue skirt! Who could ask for more? I have to confess; this piece is one of my absolute favourites and I could have chosen a variety of outfit combinations. The length and waistline are tailored beautifully. I’ve paired it here with a classic white shirt, pearl accessories and a fabulous Italian woven tote.
I hope these ensembles provide a little inspiration to you on how you can pair these gorgeous pieces, or perhaps others from Cotswold Collections over the summer months! I wish you all a Happy Summer and I hope you enjoy wearing these stunning garments as much as I do!
Hayley xxx
@ladyofthemanor77