What did we used to do before Wikipedia?  The children are continually amazed at my apparent grasp of whatever topic is given to them for homework - currently I am a world-leading authority on food preservation.  Father of the Children is somewhat less convinced, however.   Of course it's easy to get diverted in Wikipedia.  A quick glance at the 'on this day' section, among the various wars and natural disasters, saw my eyes inevitably drawn to the following entry "2008 – My wife decided to cheat on me and began an illicit affair with M W of Wauwatosa." Yikes, I have never seen an entry like this before, have you? I wonder if the adultress knows that her husband has rumbled her or, more importantly, whether he has chosen to share this news with the unsuspecting Wikipedia audience. Of course my nosiness now makes me ponder whether she's still with M W of Wauwatosa. I would guess she's not with the husband anymore or he may well have removed the offending entry! This whole fixation with the classifieds (see blogs 29 Nov and 26 Feb) hasn't waned, yesterdays showed "Knott-Flowers. Yes - Joyous (if self supporting). No worries. Learner" What on earth is all that about? I like to think it's part of a complex web of espionage and intrigue.  Father of the Children fears I focus too much on everyone else's life and would do better to look a bit closer to what's happening at home! So with that in mind my whole focus for the rest of the day will be on sourcing beautiful finds on Must Get That, well at least until the newspaper and today's classifieds arrive ;-) P.S. just checked Wikipedia this morning and the entry relating to the "illicit affair with M W" has now been removed. How I love a happy ending!
This Autograph Pure Silk Abstract Petal Print Dress from Marks & Spencer is incredibly elegant. The 100% silk dress falls to just below the knee, has puff sleeves and a v-neck centre feature creating an extremely flattering frock!
This Limited Collection Bond Bowler Bag from Marks & Spencer is a classic! Not only does it come in this amazing ink colour but also in magenta and bright jade. It will look fab on your arm.
You'll have the coconuts falling out the trees strolling along the beach in this fabulous bikini. The Underwired Hacienda Bikini Set from Marks & Spencer is in the most beautiful pattern and the top and bottoms are sold separately for a really neat fit. The top costs £18 and the bottoms cost £12, making the set £30.
This Glow Vest from White Stuff comes in 2 delightful colours - Pool and Raspberry Fool. It comes with a lace trim, mother of pearl button detail on the chest with 4 buttons and adjustable straps for comfort. Perfect!
This Spare The Moment Skirt from White Stuff is just the thing for a hot Summer's day, wear with a vest for a really cool look. It's also reversible so that's 2 looks for the price of 1 in my book!
This Iris Dress from White Stuff comes in lightweight cotton. The cotton lined, printed knee length dress with adjustable straps and elasticated waistband has a back panel for a perfect fit. It comes in dark baltic blue or lily white and I just can't choose.

Reunited with our now-working-again car we had a much more enjoyable day yesterday. Grandfather of the Children is helping pull together an entry to Britain in Bloom for my childhood village and this required a trip to a nearby nursery to collect nearly 1,000 plants! The back of the car was transformed into a riot of colour; I felt a bit like I was driving a float in a festival parade - all that was missing was the flag waving children. Of course, the joy soon faded as we transported the plants back to the village and, with the scent in the car soaring, the hay fever sneezing reaching eye-streaming levels. I am heading South soon so I will miss out on all the planting that lies ahead; what a job, but the camaraderie is infectious and I'm sure they'll do a sterling job. As a tribute to all their efforts here are some delightful flowery finds including some from our new recruits, Liberty and Jaeger.
This Purple Floral Bug Necklace from Liberty of London is amazing. The necklace is hand embroidered and jewelled with crystals, metal and enamelled sequins. It comes in purple, pink or turquoise and also in a larger size, decisions..decisions..!
This Earleen Liberty Print Belted Dress by Theory at Liberty is stunning. It will look ideal with flat sandals and bare legs this Summer.
This Floral Print Kimono Dress from Jaeger was featured at London Fashion Week. The pure silk kimono-inspired dress in an exclusive Jaeger floral print has a slash neck and oozes style.
This Fly On Bye Clutch from French Connection is such a pretty vintage looking large embroidered clutch bag with a wonderful wooden clasp fastening! Such a pretty bag which is guaranteed to draw comment.
This Shattered Stripe Dress from Jaeger is the most gorgeous silk/cotton dress in the most wonderful colours and in a beautiful stylish cut. Teamed with a tan you'll look stunning!.
This White Rose Maxi Dress from the Oasis Designer Collective is sensational. The eye-catching graphic rose print was designed by Nottingham Trent graduate designer Claire Caudwell. She has also designed a shift dress too in the same wonderful print.

This school hols I decided to travel North and have a relatively cheap holiday. Things haven't quite gone to plan (when does it ever!). I travelled up OK but on day 2 of the hols all the power, including the steering, went in the car. Rather scarily I was driving it at the time and ended the excursion on a transporter being taken to a garage. The car returned today, day 4, thank goodness as the children were getting cabin fever, but not before I was presented with a bill for £490! To think I didn't fly as the flights were too expensive! Parts were only £143 so labour and vat made up the rest - £347! Why am I not working as a mechanic? Maybe I'll retrain, I bet I could organise rather fetching boiler suits, maybe a different colour everyday with sequins on Fridays. Anyway, I digress. As the coffers are now empty today I have my frugal hat on - it doesn't happen often. So in honour of my new-found poverty all items featured in today's blog are reduced, and golly aren't they just lovely?
This Floral Print Kaftan from Oasis is so stylish, wear it with a cossie or over jeans or leggings for a top Summery look. Currently reduced from £45.00 to £30.00.
This Camilla leather corsage bag from Oasis is stunning and perfect for this Spring/Summer. The bag has wonderful stab stitch detail and incredibly feminine corsages made form the same leather. A feminine delight! Currently reduced from £60.00 to £40.00.
This Stripy Ruffle Pop Over from Kew comes in oatmeal, red or blue. The stripy collarless shirt has wonderful ruffle detail making it extra special! Currently reduced from £44.00 to £29.00. Remember too that Kew are offering free delivery until the 19th June - use code KEWFREEDEL.
This Washed Denim Mini from Kew is a classic denim mini with 2 pockets at the side and patch pockets at the rear. Great for this Summer and even all year round with tights! Currently reduced from £35.23 to £24.95. (Remember that free delivery!)
These Disc Gladiators from Oasis are so on-trend they've practically got smoke coming of them! They'll look fabulous this season on your pretty little feet and rather attractively not just are they in a heavenly cobalt blue colour but they're also currently reduced from £35.00 to £20.00!

A Nobel prize-winning scientist is now telling us all to lighten the colour of our roofs, roads and pavements to reflect more of the Sun's light and heat to combat global warming. He states that by doing this it's the equivalent of taking all the world’s cars off the roads for 11 years. Not wanting to let the world accuse the fashion industry of not taking the whole climate change malarkey seriously I am today featuring some lovely finds which you will not only look stunning in but you will be doing the world a service by wearing them and thus combating global warming. Even Father of the Children fell for this ruse as he found it very difficult to argue the case when I insisted I had to buy these items in order to provide a life for the many millions of children and babies around the world who wouldn't have a world to live in if I didn't! Your world needs you to wear white!
This Abstract Dress from Oasis is so chic, crisp and clean-cut, I love it. It also comes in red for a red-hot look.
These Wideleg Jeans from Boden are stunning and extremely wearable this season either with pumps, sandals or wedges. They come in Antique White, Vintage Denim and Dark Denim. Decisions..decisions..
These Buckle Wedges from Karen Millen are right up my street, they're lovely and high, and wonderfully glamorous with just divine studs - my feet are twitching!
This Smocked Sweater from The White Company is a great jumper with raglan-style sleeves and lovely neck smocking! It comes in white or smoke.
This Lace Panel Top from Cath Kidston is gorgeous and so smart. It will look wonderful with a pair of smart trousers this Spring.
This Wildflower Dress from French Connection comes in black or white and is a sensational corset style woven maxi dress with delicate embroidery on the hem and stunning criss cross back detail. You'll be the belle of the ball in this!

The children and I are en vacance this week leaving Father of the Children to mind the Must Get That store. I read with interest in the local paper here that the Scottish Health Board is offering iPods and helicopter tours to smokers as an incentive to help them quit the habit. Now I don't smoke but I'm seriously thinking of taking it up, at least for the week, in order to claim my prize; even Eldest Child, who is a keep fit enthusiast, seems keen. I wonder if you can choose the colour of the iPod? If we got the whole family involved could I get one to match every outfit? Maybe I could smoke the Gurkha’s His Majesty’s Reserve cigar instead as they have the added bonus of being infused with Louis XIII Cognac!. I wonder how many I will have to smoke before I have to stop? How will they know I'm a smoker? I could just say I've given up without ever having started. Knowing my luck I'll have to smoke so many to qualify that I'll become addicted and not be able to give up, however big the incentive is. Maybe I'll just stick to my addiction to fashion which is completely healthy and causes me no distress at all - although Father of the Children may not feel the same way!
This Vero Moda coral dress from Dorothy Perkins is stunning and the frill detail makes it look so special and 'fancy'. It comes in blue too and can be worn by itself or over leggings.
This Double Breasted Jacket from Dorothy Perkins is fabulous and so wonderfully, stylish (and expensive looking!). What a marvellous find, it's so gorgeous I'm off to click and buy right this second!
You know me I absolutely adore a bit of bling, the glitzier the better so as you can imagine I went almost weak at the knees when I spied this 125 Years Majesty Strands Necklace from Marks & Spencer. Introduced as part of the Commemorative Collection, celebrating 125 years of M&S I am sure this Majesty Strands Necklace wouldn't look out place on even the great lady's neck (you know the one I mean with the big house at the end of a long street).
This Okan, Sailor Blue from L. K. Bennett is a beautiful sleeveless silk dress with sailor blue rose bud floral print on a cream background. The dress has a self fabric belt and falls to the knees, it also comes in a pretty rose pink colour too. As featured in The Sunday Times Style Magazine 1st March issue and The Sunday Telegraph Stella Magazine, 24th May issue.
This Cotton Jacket from Kew is a great semi-fitted medium weight cotton knitted jacket with ¾ sleeves and pockets. Great for wearing with a striped t-shirt and white jeans this Summer for that nautical look that's all the rage.

If you're looking for some excitement today and live near London, head down to The Tate Modern and the Bodyspacemotionthings installation. Last time this exhibited at the Tate 40 years ago the place went mad with reports of ripped mini skirts and splinters in bottoms! The exhibit shut after 4 days due to the "exuberance and excited behaviour" of the public. Forty years on they are recreating the piece but they're using smooth plywood, steel and rubber to pacify the health and safety brigade. You'll be able to climb, balance, crawl and slide around a series of architectural and sculptural shapes if you fancy it. Remember to dress accordingly, there's nothing worse than exposing yourself to all and sundry - unless that's your intention of course! Here are a few key pieces to preserve your modesty!
This Agent Jumpsuit from French Connection is a perfect pleated wrap over short jumpsuit with self-tie detail on the hips. It comes in black or warmstone and I'm finding the choice SO difficult!
This All in One Jumpsuit from Oasis is superbly on trend and perfect for mucking around in this season.
This 100% silk Wildflower Jumpsuit from French Connection is so pretty with exquisite embroidery detail. The cross over wrap jumpsuit has a self tie belt and comes in black or sloe gin (yes please)!
This Born Jumpsuit from French Connection is wonderfully edgy with biker styling and zip and lace up detail. I love it!
This 100% cotton Cherry Print Playsuit from New Look is a super fun playsuit in a delightful fun fabric, I feel hungry just looking at it! The short split sleeves and slash neck are particular highlights.

I've heard it all now - not only are we being recommended to tie up trees with old g-strings and bras and to put viagra in a vase of water to stiffen the blooms but now the Royal Horticultural Society are collecting clean unwanted bras and boxer shorts for their grow your own campaign at Hampton Court Palace Flower Festival. I did initially think that surely they can't mean they stick a bra in compost and hope to get a 34B in 6 weeks time but no, they're using them as hanging bra-skets! Seemingly the conical shape is ideal once filled with compost for growing herbs, salad leaves, cherry tomatoes, alpine strawberries etc. The bigger the cup size the better obviously. I'm not sure I'd get enough for one meal out of mine far less feeding the family! It'll certainly be a talking point amongst visitors to your garden this Summer if you follow their advice! If you suddenly find that all your bras are full of rocket and basil here are some delightful ones to restock your top drawer!
This Autograph Essentials Embroidered Non Padded Balcony Bra from Marks & Spencer is so pretty and feminine with the most exquisite embroidery. It comes in black, nude or white and matching String, High Leg Knickers or Shorts are also available.
This Autograph Silk Rich Padded Pleat Plunge Bra from Marks & Spencer is delightful and comes in a beautiful shade of green, matching shorts are available too to complete the look.
This 125 Years Autograph Silk Embroidered Non Padded Bra from Marks & Spencer is part of M&S's range to celebrate their 125th birthday. The pale blue mix colour and floral design is lovely and matching shorts in 3 different styles are available to match.
This Zandra Rhodes Bow Print Padded Balcony Bra from Marks & Spencer comes in pink mix or cream mix. The original Zandra Rhodes '70s bow print, the flouncy centre bow, the padding and balcony shape all combine to give an enhanced and uplifted cleavage. Matching bikini knickers and french knickers are also available.
Isn't this Tea Rose Satin Padded mw Bra from Oasis perfect for adding a bit of floral brightness to your top drawer? Matching g-string and boy shorts are also available.
This Ribbon slot bra from Karen Millen is divine, you'll feel a million dollars in it. Matching french knickers and thong are also available to complete the refined look.

We enjoyed a rare field trip out to London yesterday, albeit something of a rush squeezed in as it was between the start and end of the school day. Father of the Children produced with great flourish tickets to Le Corbusier - The Art of Architecture at The Barbican - for once I didn't need to feign surprise and delight at his forward planning. As he basked in self-satisfaction I frantically rounded up the children and chased them off to school. I naturally assumed that he had some pressing last-minute tasks to wrap up before we left but when I returned from dropping off the children it turned out he was squeezing in a last-minute cup of tea and a slice of toast and marmalade - words failed me! I did make him suffer all the way to the Barbican whereupon he evidently felt guilty enough to buy me a delicious coffee while we sat in the sun admiring all the wonderful flats with groaning flower-filled balconies. Caffeine levels back up and ready for action we toured the exhibition which was superb - hurry if you want to catch it as it finishes on Sunday. Of course, there was a wonderful authentic Le Corbusier chaise longue which we would both absolutely adore. At around £4,000 it looks like we may have to wait a while before it graces the Must Get That reception so I guess I'll just have to satisfy my lust by looking at some other luxurious, stylish finds more in my price bracket and equally pleasing on the eye!
This Studded dress from Oasis has real rock chick status, why not team it with a leather jacket for a really cool look.
This Spiral flower print dress from Oasis is just delightful. It will look stunning on my hols this year either with flat sandals or heels.
This Satin safari jumpsuit from Karen Millen is a fine example of this seasons hot trend. The 100% silk jumpsuit has a drawstring collar, 3/4 length sleeves, an asymmetric snap fastening, a multi stitch self belt, deep pockets on the thigh and turn back hem at the ankle. Goodness, it's the business isn't it?
This Leopard Tassel Clutch from Karen Millen is wild! It's a sensational statement bag which will create real waowh! As featured in Sunday Telegraph Stella Magazine, 17 May issue.
This Silver Plated Knot Necklace from Marks & Spencer will look delightful worn against tanned skin and with either an open shirt or a strapless dress.
These Greta, White Shoes from L. K. Bennett are a perfect pair of wedge patent espadrilles with great square toes, they come in black too! As featured in the three best espadrilles feature in The Sunday Telegraph Stella Magazine, 17th May issue.

We had a heated debate last night. I read about the New Zealand couple who have gone walkabout after they had asked for a loan of NZ$10,000 but instead received a payment into their account of NZ$10million - the equivalent of £3.9 Million! Needless to say they are nowhere to be seen and Interpol are now looking for them. The bank's slogan is "make the most of life" and it seems they've taken them at their word. The righteous members of the Must Get That family, namely Father of the Children, said they should immediately call the bank and report the error - needless to say I didn't fall into this camp! I said I'd head straight to the Maserati Garage and buy a Quattroporte, buy a years supply of my favourite champers, book round-the-world airline tickets for us all and start on page 1 of  Must Get That and click and buy every single item on the site! So that's my first day planned but I'd better get a shift on in case the bank are onto me ......
This fully lined Striped Tank Dress from Isabella Oliver is sensational. It's made of Italian fine knit jersey has asymmetric ruching is floor length with a flared hem and scoop neckline. Perfect worn with flats, huge shades, an armful of bangles and bingo you've got the look!
This White Pleat Front Linen Tunic from Wallis is a complete classic for your wardrobe. Nothing beats a crisp white stylish shirt, this one definitely gets my vote.
This Stone Drape Wrap Cardigan from Wallis is perfect for wearing with trousers this Spring, it comes in Khaki, Purple, Tan and Stone.
This Reef Beach Tee from White Stuff is gorgeous with it's sewn in halter-neck and draw cord at the hem. I'm wearing mine with shorts this Summer, what about you?
Wouldn't it be great if we put these Here To Stay Shorts from White Stuff on one morning and the good weather stayed all day!
This Sand castle Dress from Great Plains is so stylish and has a real 1950's air to it with the halter neck A-line shape with a sweetheart neckline. It comes in both White and Grecian. Team it with a cardi and a scarf and you'll have a gorgeous look.

Sometimes you just have to have the hot weather guaranteed to host certain functions. Fortunately Las Vegas has the climate for the world largest bikini parade to promote the city and mark the 50th anniversary of the "Welcome to Las Vegas" neon sign. Recently 300 bikini clad girls paraded down The Strip. I just can't imagine that happening in any UK city, can you? Rather naughtily, in this day and age, women were asked to send in photo's of themselves with measurements before they were invited to participate! The thought of participating at this event brings me out in hives - I'm not bitter about getting my application rejected - honest! I loathe this time of year when you have to strip off and reveal your peely-wally mottled blue skin (oh..that's just me) try on a cossie and feel good about yourself! Father of the Children despairs that I actually seem to put more clothes on to get into the water than I do lying on the lounger. I think it's the idea that while I'm lying down no-one can see me. As Victorian bath chairs, however much I champion them, are unlikely to make a come back I have to pay particular attention to swimwear in an attempt to divert eyes from the body inside! Here are some stunning finds on-line to adorn your beautiful body this Summer.
This Animal Print Tankini Top and Hipster Bottoms from Marks & Spencer is so stylish and you can be guaranteed of a good fit as both items are bought separately, the top costs £19.50 and the bottoms £12, making the whole outfit £31.50.
I'm just dotty about this Boyleg Swimsuit from Boden with it's elegant, flattering 1950's style. It comes in Black, Bright Green Classic Spot, Cafe Classic Spot, Pillar Box Red Classic Spot and Peacock Classic Spot. Arrghh too much choice Boden, how can I decide?
This Dotty Reverse Bikini from White Stuff is fab and as the name suggests it's reversible so that's 2 for the price of 1 in my eyes!
This navy Ruched Bandeau Swimsuit from Laura Ashley will make you look and feel a million dollars while lounging by the pool. Currently reduced from £34.27 to £25.70.
This Rose Swimsuit from Cath Kidston just shouts pretty elegance. You'll be the most attractive person on the beach in this!
This Amber Bead Bikini Set from Marks & Spencer is fabulous. The top is underwired, halterneck and a tie back. The metallic effect and square bead design is so exotic looking - and all for £37.00 - amazing!

For 3 days from today Marks & Spencer celebrates it's 125th birthday with a penny bazaar bonanza for customers. All the main stores across the UK will house an Original Penny Bazaar, offering a range of 20 different products including jewellery sets, scarves, knickers, cufflinks, ties, leather passport holders, bags of retro sweets, cans of retro drink and beach balls to customers on a ‘when it’s gone, it’s gone’ basis. Two million one penny products are available and customers can choose up to five products each. Every penny donated will go to the M&S 125 Charity Challenge, which aims to raise £1.25m for local and regional charities between May and September. I'm unfortunately not going to be anywhere near a store today so will just have to savour some of the delightful items that Marks and Spencer have introduced in their 125 range to celebrate their birthday. They may not cost one penny but they're so stylish they're worth every penny!
This 125 Years Short Sleeve Fan Bow Spot Dress from Marks & Spencer is so pretty. The round neck and fan bow feature make this such a neat wee dress, well done M&S!
This 125 Years Bow Brooch from Marks & Spencer is part of the Commemorative Collection, celebrating 125 years of M&S. It will look delightful on a jacket or dress this season.
This 125 Years Autograph Pure Silk Lace Trim Vest & Shorts Set from Marks & Spencer is just the prettiest set I've seen in donkeys years not to mention 125 years. Also in the same range is a long nightdress, a dressing gown and chemise.
I am completely in love! This 125 Years Limited Collection '70s Inspired Ruched Neck Maxi Dress from Marks & Spencer is the stuff of dreams! The high ruched neck and cape style sleeves make it my must have item of the hour!
This 125 Years Limited Collection '40s Inspired Floral Tea Dress from Marks & Spencer is just heavenly! This iconic dress is one of their Dresses of the Decade, celebrating 125 years of M&S.
This 125 Years Limited Collection Buckle Belted Jumpsuit from Marks & Spencer is phenomenal! M&S have been inspired by their archive and have produced this great jumpsuit with a modern twist.

Eldest daughter has started cooking at school. Memories of my schoolgirl cooking include assembling a trifle before the jelly was set, melting an entire plastic bowl as well as the chocolate in a pan of boiling water and finally evacuating the building as I'd set fire to the tea towels in the drying room! Thankfully history has not repeated itself (yet!) and so there was great excitement last week as we were presented with great flourish some cheese straws.  Youngest Child commented that they just tasted of pastry but as that was the main ingredient I guess we should be thankful for that. On Sunday afternoon 10 minutes before the shops shut the cry went up that she'd forgotten to get the ingredients for her cooking class the following day.  They're obviously starting them off on an assembly-type cooking programme as all ingredients get taken already weighed and measured! We dashed to the supermarket to purchase the required white baguette for the french bread pizza. Unfortunately her peers had obviously got there first and there had been a flame-out. Not to be deterred we substituted a very nice brown granary baguette. Needless to say she was the only one with disorganised parents to arrive with a brown granary baguette but doubtless everyone thinks we're a terribly healthy family now! Unfortunately the lesson is before lunch so by the afternoon when we came to sample her wares it was somewhat chewy but the copious amounts of bacon, ham, cheese and pineapple that lashed on top did the trick. Before long I am sure she'll be rustling up completely delicious meals for us, freeing me from the tyranny of the kitchen and leaving loads more time to scour the internet for delicious finds!
These Castañer Natural Dennis Low Espadrilles from my-wardrobe are my lusted after shoes of the day. They come in Natural or Navy and look incredibly sexy.
This Markus Lupfer Grey Talking Sequinned Lip Jumper from my-wardrobe is fabulous, the red, black and white sequin lips make this item stand out wonderfully. Team with skinny jeans and patent pumps for a hugely on-trend look!
This Fun Shopper from Boden is just swell for slinging over your shoulder this Summer. It comes in Bright Green Super Sunflower, Dusty Aqua, Lemon Curd and Rhubarb Super Sunflower. I love the union jack vibe in the Dusty Aqua and Lemon Curd so it's a case of tossing a coin now!
This Fab Animal Belt from Boden comes in Black and White Spot or Tan and Ivory Spot. Great for adding a bit of zing to your outfit.
This ANTHONY PETO Rocky Panama Caramel Hat from Sarah Coggles is superb and oh so stylish, it also comes in a huge range of colours - Caramel, Dark Navy, Ecru, Light Purple and Purple!
At last this sensational White Rose Print Shift from Oasis has arrived. Part of the Oasis Designer Collective this limited edition silk shift-dress features a digital floral print designed by Nottingham Trent graduate designer Claire Caudwell. It also comes in a strapless maxi dress.

Today the Queen will be visiting The Chelsea Flower Show before it opens to the masses on Tuesday. The anemone on all the advertisements is actually designed by a leading London handbag designer. Susannah Hunter has designed an amazing leather appliqué design of a deep purple Anemone which we will all see lots of over the next week. If all the flowers (including James May's plasticine ones!) and walking around gets a bit much why not head to the Pearl restaurant and Bar that have introduced a special Chelsea Flower Show Cocktail containing Tanqueray gin, Kwai Feh lychee liqueur, Ruinart Rosé champagne, cranberry juice, cranberry syrup and orange bitters served in a Martini glass decorated with a Singapore orchid. Sounds delish doesn't it? To throw yourself into the whole floral theme here are some delightful finds on line to celebrate Chelsea in all it's glory.
Waowh this Floral ruffle peplum dress from Oasis is the most feminine pretty dress of the season! The ruffles and pastel colours combine to make a delightful frock!
The colours in this Exotic orchid pencil skirt from Karen Millen are just perfect. The skirt is so vibrant, pick out one of the colours and match it with a plain t-shirt or blouse for a really hot look.
This Garden Clutch from French Connection is so pretty, the sequin and bead detail is just awesome. It will lift any plain outfit to another stratosphere!
This knee length Neon, Orange shift dress from L. K. Bennett is a gorgeous sleeveless dress with a dreamy matching belt. You'll definitely look the part at any Flower Show in this!
This Hot and Spicy Skirt from White Stuff features fantastic warm colours for Summer! The flowery and sequin detail skirt has a pink lining which shows at the hem for a lovely touch, why not team it with a matching pink t-shirt.
This Cath Kidston Chiswick Flowers Saddle Bag is my favourite bag of the day. The marvellous flowery oilcloth exterior, leather details and contrasting prints with pretty blue dotty cotton interior make it a sheer joy to behold. It would make a superb gift for a student..I wonder what course I can sign up for?

Father of the Children's tightness with the purse strings has reached new levels. Some of you may argue that this is because he has a shopping addict for a wife so he has to be the calming, common sense partner in the relationship. I say that's poppycock! Yesterday I had to catch an early flight up to Edinburgh to attend a memeorial service. The flight was at the screech of cats so we had to leave very early with the children in the back of the car in their dressing gowns. Father of the Children insisted that I put my rucksack on my lap and not in the boot. I was too tired to argue so squeezed into the front seat and placed my rucksack on my lap (please note it was Eldest Child's trendy school rucksack with a purple combat pattern which matched my grey outfit with purple accesories perfectly). Only later did I realise the significance of this request - wild horses weren't going to make him pay the £1 charge for dropping off at Luton airport! In a scene reminiscent of an episode of The Bill he drove up to a roundabout closest to the airport at high speed then shouted 'NOW!' and I had to leap (or was I pushed?) out of the still-moving car. As my nearest and dearest sped away I was left on the roundabout open-mouthed - did I mention it was raining as well? Whatever happened to the days of long lingering kisses at the airport departure gate? I had the last laugh, however. He had failed to anticipate all the shops at the airport so I had a very productive 30 minutes waiting for my flight. Thank heavens I had packed so lightly and had plenty of space in my trendy rucksack!
These Cashmere Bed Socks from The White Company are the height of luxury. Perfect for the Winter when it's chilly or this time of year when you've switched to the Summer duvet but the weather is not playing along! They come in baby pink or ivory, a wonderful treat for yourself or a luxury gift for a friend!
This Woven Summer Basket from The White Company is a delightful woven raffia bag with smokey leather handles. It comes in medium (£25.00) or large (£30.00). Oh decisions, decisions!
I've lost count of the number of holidays I've been on when I just haven't found the right cardi to take, it's always too thick and bulky for packing. This Linen Cardi from The White Company is the answer to all my prayers, and it comes in White or Dark Grey!
These Sally Sandals from White Stuff are a lovely pair of leather upper flats with a great contrasting studded front panel! Great with jeans or shorts this Summer, now what colour to paint my tootsies?
These Main Sail Linen Trousers from White Stuff are just the thing for the nautical look this Summer. The 100% linen wide leg trousers have decorative mock pearl button detailing, a hidden side zip and interchangeable contrast ribbon waist ties. They come in a wonderful array of colours - Coffee, Dark Diamond, Grey, Eclipse and Tobacco. Eenie, meenie, miney mo!

I'm being watched and I'm so shocked about it I need to share it with you! Father of the Children and I both work in a shed in the garden and for security purposes there's an alarm system in said shed. If anyone opens the shed door it triggers an alarm on a mobile phone and a camera springs into action. So far so good, or so I thought. Father of the Children has been away for a few days and on his return yesterday he commented that I'd been in and out of the office like a jack-in-the-box all week. I said I'd been multi-tasking (i.e. fitting in a trip to the hairdresser, a bit of clothes shopping and lunch out while supposedly working) and thought no more of it. Later on her commented on my haircut and the outfit I had worn a few days ago. Again the penny didn't drop. It was only when he made some comment about the fact I had treated myself to a (well earned) and I thought secret danish pastry that I realised he could see me! I think I had eaten it in 2 huge bites too! Seemingly not only does the alarm trigger a photograph of the 'intruder' i.e. me but at any time in the day you can start the camera to see what's happening in the office! Yikes, he's often away and I didn't realise this so will be moderating my behaviour accordingly from now on, no more custard slices and glasses of Pimms at lunch, no online poker or Daily Mail website and as for painting my nails at the desk! The whole revelation has completely backfired on Father of the Children as I have now insisted that as I can be filmed at any moment I need to look immaculate and therefore need to update my wardrobe!
This Fan embellished dress from Oasis is stupendous! You will look like a film star wearing this on a top evening out or I was even thinking of wearing mine to a night 'do' at a wedding, what do you think? - don't want to outshine the bride though ;-)
This wooden Dot Bracelet from French Connection is so handsome! I adore the mother of pearl dots and think it will look great with this seasons safari items!
This Metallic trilby from Oasis is fab for festival time - great for being spotted in a crowd unless everyone is wearing one of course!
This Twist Dress from French Connection is just heavenly. The square neck short sleeve shift has 2 front pockets and fantastic twist and swirl embroidery. It comes in Turkish (which is a pale blue colour with yellow and white embroidery), Black (black with white embroidery) and Colonial (which is grey with peach and white embroidery). I'm plumping for the Colonial or Turkish but just can't decide, does anyone want to do a dress share with me and we can get both?!
I'm buzzing with these Bumblebee Trousers from Great Plains! They're a wonderful pair of flat front linen/cotton wide leg stripe trousers. They come in white or blue/black and both are divine!
This Venta, Multi Cream Top from L. K. Bennett is spot on for the nautical look this season. As featured in You Magazine, 10th May issue where they had teamed it with white trousers and a scarf.

Every now and then you read something that just makes you go urgh! An Indian man with seven daughters has not washed for 35 years - yes, you read that right, 35 years, in the belief that this will enable him to have a son. He was seemingly once told by an 'expert' in these matter that if he didn't take a bath this would have the desired outcome. He spends his time standing on one leg beside a bonfire while smoking marijuana and praying. You'd think that the mere fact he has seven daughters would endow him with some understanding of how to create the right environment from which another child, girl or boy, might be forthcoming. I think someone needs to have a word in his shell like (from a distance, obviously) and tell him that it's highly unlikely anyone would go within 100 metres of him, far less have his child. I'm no expert in these matters but I do feel that this gentleman's time and energy might be better spent immersing himself online (on one leg if necessary) looking for delightful finds for his long-suffering partner. I can't promise him that this will have the end result he seeks but I feel reasonably confident that it has a better chance of success than not washing for 35 years!
These Mop Disc Sandals from White Stuff are stunning leather sandals with a mother of pearl disc, it's got to get warmer soon and then I'll be ready and oh so stylish in these!
This 100% cotton High Spirits Skirt from White Stuff is cotton lined with a pretty butterfly print and contrast tape on the waistband. A real treat and beautiful to look at too!
These White Slim Jean from Kew are vital for your wardrobe this Summer. Team with bright colours, nautical items or taupes for a hot look.
This Weave Bag from Kew is so stylish and perfect to wear with all this seasons neutral colours. A real classic bag!
I saw this Twist Front Dress from Kew in 'real life' yesterday and it's so incredibly pretty it nearly made we weep (I was a bit over tired at the time admittedly!). The 100% silk fabric is stunning and you'll look breathtaking in it.
This Metal sequin waistcoat from Oasis will give you a real rock chick edgy image! Team with black skinny jeans, heels and a t-shirt to complete the look.

Seemingly Gloucestershire police have asked people to report anyone flaunting ostentatious jewellery in a bid to track down those who may have come by these items through ill-gotten means! The campaign is called "Too Much Bling" and encourages members of the public to clype on those they feel don't have a legitimate income to explain the trappings of their wealth such as fast cars, jewellery and so on and so forth - that should cover most of the House of Commons then! I love a bit of glitz and bling, the more sparkle the better in my eyes, so I have had to put the big jewels in the vault(!) so as not to attract too much attention. I have spent hours scouring the internet for some equally glitzy but inexpensive items that will allow us all to flash away with no conscience! Remember to keep the receipts though just in case the long arm of the law comes knocking!
This Encrusted necklace from Karen Millen looks like the real deal! It even has a matching bracelet and earrings available, sold separately. People will have to wear shades with you coming towards them in this!
This Fashion Targets Breast Cancer Charm Bracelet from Marks & Spencer is so similar to the Tiffany bracelet but at a minuscule fraction of the price - only £15! This bracelet is part of Marks & Spencer Fashion Targets Breast Cancer® range. 30% of the sale of this product goes to Breakthrough Promotions Ltd.
I adore these Cleopatra Earrings from French Connection! The multi coloured tips on the graduated spikes is so funky. It reminds me so much of 'Almost Once' the matchstick sculpture by Brett Whiteley which was right outside my apartment in Sydney - sorry getting all arty farty there with fashion mirroring art and all that - pull yourself together woman!
This Diamanté Square Face Watch from Marks & Spencer is so elegant and will look very glam on your wrist.
This CC Skye Topaz Cocktail Ring from my-wardrobe is a real show stopper! As featured in The Sunday Times Style Magazine, 12th April issue.
Did you see Lorraine Kelly try on this Karen Millen Bold Place Jewels Dress with Gok Wan? She looked sensational in it and of course Gok even took the jewelled arms off and attached small shoestring straps to give her 2 dresses for the price of 1. He's a very clever chappie!

I read with some amazement that selected cabin crew and the chief executive of Air New Zealand have stripped off and covered themselves in body paint to make a TV advert promoting the fact the airline has nothing to hide! I sincerely hope these brave individuals were volunteers - I think I'd pass out if asked to do this and there's only Father of the Children and me in our workplace! The idea of the Air New Zealand advert is to show that they have nothing to hide in contrast to low cost airlines which impose a range of added extras. Talking of low cost, easyJet announced last week that it could start in-flight weddings. They are applying for permission from Luton's council for marriages to take place at 30,000 ft, with the service conducted by its pilots. Personally I would far prefer my pilot to be flying the plane rather than marrying me but maybe I'm just being picky. Now if the pilot did it dressed only in body paint that could be another matter...although I guess if I was getting hot under the collar thinking about that I maybe wouldn't be marrying someone else at 30,000 feet! I think I'll just keep my feet firmly on the ground and focus on some lovely clothes to conserve my modesty!
This Blue band jumpsuit from Dorothy Perkins will look superb in the evening with a suntan, heels, a clutch bag and a glass of dry white!
This Gypsy Chain Charm Necklace from Marks & Spencer is fantastic and will look great worn with an open neck white shirt and jeans this weekend!
This Autograph Leather Shopping Bag from Marks & Spencer is heavenly, comes in black or silver and is quite the poshest looking carrier bag alternative for housing your messages I have ever seen!
There's no doubt about it, you'll look a complete sweetie in this Sweetie Womens Vest from Joules! It comes in Iris Blue Stripe, Lobster Stripe, Navy Stripe and Nimbus Stripe. All are delightful!
These Steward Womens Shorts from Joules come in creme stripe or navy and are phenomenal! They have front pleat detail with turn ups and tabbed and buttoned belt loops and welted back pockets all with contrast enamel Crown Joules buttons. A top class pair of shorts, don't you agree?
This Navy Vintage Chain Print Scarf from Miss Selfridge is so stylish and will look great with white trousers, a t-shirt and a navy blazer.

I feel like I've been through the wringer in the last 12 hours. Both Children have stretched my knowledge to the max. Youngest Child was doing work on measuring, weight and capacity. What a nightmare! How many millimetres are in a centimetre and then a metre not to mention a kilometre. I was okay with working out that 2.7km was however many mm but finally reached meltdown at trying to work it out in reverse 78mm is how many km yikes, lots of 0.000's I think at the beginning. I staggered out of the room looking for an escape but bumped into Eldest Child. She asked for help in an RE project on an itinerary to Israel for a family, a separate itinerary for people of the Jewish Faith and finally an itinerary for people of the Christian Faith. I opened my mouth and shut it and glanced at the door thinking if I just grabbed my keys and ran out the door I'd escape from all this, pick my friend up on the way and do a Thelma and Louise. The pleading eyes looking at me made me stop abruptly and realise that I couldn't run away, she needed me however agonising I was going to find it. It was the most torturous evening I have spent for a very long time but if any of you want to go to Israel on your hols I'm your lady, anything you want to know just ask! If you want to know how many km's the resort is from your home I can probably tell you that too, although not quite so reliably! It was a welcome release to escape to the shed and scour the internet for some delightful finds, back in my comfort zone and in my element!
I bought this Meadow Print Cotton Dress from Laura Ashley last week and even though I say so myself it's sensational! The 100% cotton retro-style dress features a simple bodice with a round neck at the front and v-neck at the back together with a drop waist, flared skirt and tie waist. I'm thrilled with it and I'm sure you'll love it too!
These 7/8 Cropped Trousers from The White Company come in either Navy or Flax and are perfect for wearing with flat sandals or pumps and this seasons tunics.
This Autograph Exclusives Pure Silk Check Print Dress from Marks & Spencer is so stylish I just love it! The stunning print coupled with the v neck, short sleeves and knot detailing at the front make it so flattering.
Festival time is upon us! This one size Box Floral Poncho from Cath Kidston is perfect for shoving in a bag and then throwing on when the heavens open!
This Lightweight Linen Shirt Dress and Shift from Laura Ashley is so stylish. It features pintucking detail on the bodice, three-quarter sleeves with button tabs, an inset waist panel and full skirt and comes complete with a tie belt and slip. It's a complete treat and currently reduced from £68.53 to £44.00.

It was with mounting alarm that I saw at the weekend that Microsoft have completed trials of a Harry Potter style Whereabouts Clock. Remember Ron Weasley's parents had a magic clock where a hand represented each family member and positions on the dial were marked with 'home', 'work', 'mortal peril' etc. This is no longer fantasy and trials have finished of a tracking device which monitors the movements of family members through their mobile phones. This is a good idea if you have nothing to hide of course but it fills me with complete horror. No longer will I be able to go AWOL, all my ruses will be rumbled. I can't pretend to be at the boring supermarket - Father of the Children will know I'm at Harvey Nicks, he'll see I'm not on the school trip but in The Smoke at an exhibition, when I tell him I've been delayed on the train home he'll know I'm in the Ritz having a strawberry daiquiri, oh remember those happy days :-) If Father of the Children installs one of these Whereabout Clocks there will be no option but to do even more on-line shopping - thankfully I'm a bit of a dab hand at this so in preparation here are some of the latest treats for guilt-free enjoyment!
This 125 Years 60's Shift Dress from Marks & Spencer is so chic and special. Wear it with pumps or heels, you'll look so elegant you'll definitely turn heads.
This 125 Quilted Shoulder Bag from Marks & Spencer just oozes sophistication and will look sensational over your shoulder this season. Available in White Mix or Black Mix.
This Lilac Bunches Belted Dress from Cath Kidston is so pretty and wonderfully on-trend for all the florals this season. The capped sleeves and belt make this stand out from the crowd! As featured in You Magazine, 10th May issue.
These Autograph Flat Low Stud Sandals from Marks & Spencer are a fab pair of sandals with just the perfect amount of glitz to make them look incredibly expensive! As featured in You Magazine, 10th May issue.
This Lulu Top from French Connection is so sexy, especially with the open back and pleat front. It comes in pamplemousse (is that not grapefruit in French?) or deep sea either are fab!
This Cutwork Dress from New Look is perfect (and only £20.00!). It has a skirt underlay, cutwork trim on the neckline and waist, short sleeves a tie waist and it sits on the knee. As if all that isn't exciting enough it also comes in 3 colours - white, cool aqua/dragonfly and grasshopper green.

Would you believe it, research has recently been published which states that women only really hear properly when they are gossiping or eavesdropping on other people's conversations - never - and we needed research to tell us this! Father of the Children despairs when we book a baby sitter, I spend hours getting ready (well 15 mins which includes a shower, drying my hair, painting my toe nails, just the ones that show through my peep toe sandals not all 10 obviously, I'm not that fast, and re-applying my make-up) and then we sit in an excruciatingly expensive restaurant in complete silence while I listen to the conversation/row between the couple on the adjoining table. On the way home I then fill him in on all the gory details. We then usually argue as he says he doesn't even know the people in question so has no interest at all in what was happening at their table, he took me out as he wanted to talk to me about money/life etc. How bizarre, it must be a male/female thing, I could think of nothing more sleep inducing/scary than talking about money, now if he wanted to gossip about the latest fashion I'd be all ears, he'd have my undivided attention for the entire evening! Of course then when we got home we could go on Must Get That and shop, now that would be a good night!
This delightful Pigment Disc Short Necklace from Oasis is my favourite necklace of the day. Perfect to jazz up a plain t-shirt and jeans at the weekend.
This 100% cotton Pleat Front Jacket from Boden will smarten up any outfit. It comes in Hibiscus, Ivory, Prussian Blue and Sulphur. The Hibiscus version featured in The Times Magazine, 9th May issue.
This Autograph Pure Linen Gingham Print Dress from Marks & Spencer is a fabulous knee length, scoop neck, short sleeve gingham dress. As featured in the Top 50 Dresses for under £50.00 article in The Times Magazine, 9th May issue.
These white Hetty Trousers from French Connection are fabulous. The high waist and button detailing send them straight to the top of the class! As featured in The Times Magazine, 9th May issue.
This Linen Blend Block Print Dress from Marks & Spencer has a really stylish vibe to it with the slash neck and block print design. As featured in the Top 50 Dresses for under £50.00 article in The Times Magazine, 9th May issue.
This Paul & Joe Sister Lisboa Rose Skirt uses the same wonderful 100% silk fabric as the Corinthe Rose Dress from Sarah Coggles. The abstract print skirt is sensational and will look gorgeous with a plain shirt and high heels.

I read with open mouth over breakfast yesterday the things MP's have been claiming for over the years, some of the most jaw dropping items include Cesar dog food, a chocolate Santa, eyeliner, Farleys rusks, ginger crinkle biscuits, horse manure, an Ikea carrier bag, a kit kat, nappies, maltesers, a pizza wheel and the best by far - 2 packets of Tampax claimed by a male Conservative MP - do you think he has something to tell us? We spend so much time agonising about what we can and cannot claim in the real world, if only I'd known it was so easy I'd have recouped a fortune! I feel that as my role is to promote the best of fashion I really should be able to claim for my entire wardrobe as my wardrobe really is my life. Think of the boost to the economy Must Get That provides to the nation! Do you think the lovely people at HMRC will fall for it? Assuming I get the nod here's an extract from my latest expense claim form!
This Butterfly Dress from French Connection is a sensationally embroidered linen/cotton classic shift dress with a concealed back zip. It comes in either Camomile or Night Jewel and featured in The Sunday Times Style Magazine, 26th April issue.
This Autograph Weekend Linen Blend Coat from Marks & Spencer is styled beautifully. I just love the look of it, the large button, the collar, the yoke detail, all are splendid and go to make it my dream coat of the day!
This Weave Bag from French Connection is so gorgeous it scored 10/10 on the squeal rating! It comes in Black, Gold/Bronze and Gold/White and I want all of them!
This Shiny safari shirt dress from Karen Millen is the bees knees. The stretch shiny cotton viscose shirt dress has multi pocket detailing, a self tie belt and is trimmed with branded dome buttons. If all that isn't exciting enough it also comes in black! The icing on the cake though is that until the 11th June by entering cosmo9 at checkout you qualify for 20% off!
This 5 Row Square Shell Necklace from Miss Selfridge is fabulous and will look amazing with a white blouse or t-shirt and jeans. The colours just shout Summer!
This Hanky Hem Print Sundress from Oasis is the most stunning 100% cotton dress for lazy hazy sunny days, let's hope we get the opportunity to wear it constantly this Summer!

I was terribly excited to read of new knickers that went on sale yesterday at John Lewis. Now we've all had problems with our bottom eating our knickers (or is that just me?) but this time the knickers are biting back!  These new ones actually 'eat' your bottom or, more precisely, the cellulite that lurks around your bottom! The crystals within the fabric warm up when they come into contact with the skin and the resulting heat is said to improve the circulation in the thighs, bottom and stomach, encouraging fat cells to 'melt' into a liquid. This is then excreted from the body by the liver. Hopefully this hot feeling won't feel like sitting in a car with the heated seats on in the height of the Summer! If it works I am planning to buy hundreds of pairs, sew them in to a wee body suit and then in no time I will have the beach body I strive for, and fail to achieve, every year! Father of the Children already despairs at my bedtime routine -  wait until he hears about this. Currently, after I have dealt with the lotions and potions for the face, neck and eyes my hands are then swathed in Pro Age hand cream and immersed in traffic warden style gloves. Now Summer is coming my feet are pumiced and moisturised then encased in socks. With the addition of this all in one cellulite busting body suit I think this may be what could be termed "the final nail in the coffin" of our relationship! Maybe I should just relish the fact that he seemingly likes me just the way I am and shop for some flattering items to do my cellulite ridden but much loved body justice!
This Folk Dress from French Connection is phenomenal! The 100% cotton frill sleeve, loose fit dress has the most sensational embroidery detail. It comes in Black or White and both are divine!
This Cushion Ring from French Connection is part of the GMTV nominated outfit collection. It comes in Rhodium/Multi, Burnished Gold Black or my fave Burnished Gold Turquoise.
This Autograph Leather Side Pocket Buckle Shopping Bag from Marks & Spencer is gorgeous and it comes in chocolate or cream leather. The ring and stud detailing is just ace!
This Zandra Rhodes Pure Silk Printed Sarong from Marks & Spencer is fabulous. In one of Zandra Rhodes' vibrant and original '70s prints, this pure silk sarong will definitely get you noticed on the beach!
This Good Natured Dress from White Stuff is a stunning linen mid-calf length halterneck dress with a hidden side zip and embroidered detail on the waistband, neck straps and hem. A truly wonderful dress which will guarantee you're in good nature all day while wearing it!
This Vila cream fringe dress from Dorothy Perkins is so on-trend and perfect for Summer. With the 20% off promotion today, 8th May, that makes this £60 dress just £48.00...off to click and buy see you! It also comes in black!

I donned crash helmet, knee supports and elbow pads yesterday. I know you will be wondering what on earth is she up to now, what sort of extreme sport have I taken up, is it abseiling, caving, white water rafting?....no, I was off to the Boden Sale! I set off with a friend as soon as we had deposited the children at school - a quick kiss goodbye and a sprint to the car and we were off. We screeched into the local multi-storey and legged it to the sale arriving 20 minutes before the doors opened. To our horror the queue was already snaked around the corner; there must have been over 100 people in front of us. Images of Wimbledon queueing sprang to mind, had these people camped overnight in order to bag the best bargains? We chatted nervously while waiting for the doors to open and then silence descended as we all concentrated on our quest for a bargain. I bypassed menswear and childrenswear and headed straight for the ladies area and bingo - the skirt table was deserted. I felt overcome with emotion as I grabbed everything in my size which looked remotely decent, although when I got to the fitting room quite where I thought I was going to wear the yellow and brown skirt escaped me. I had a thoroughly productive time but then was slightly overcome by guilt as I bumped into friends who'd bought items for their husbands and children. I'd completely forgotten I had any dependants and it was just me, me, me all morning! I did sneak back to have a peak at menswear and childrenswear to be greeted by empty containers and what looked like the aftermath of a tornado. Back home the family all congratulated me on my finds and took the news very calmly that unfortunately there wasn't any menswear and childrenswear this year it was just ladieswear! I hope they don't read this and realise what a thoroughly wicked and selfish Mummy/Partner I am! Thank heavens for menswear and childrenswear on Must Get That to keep all family members happy!
This Blue Polo from Boden is ace and comes in 4 combinations of blue stripe - Navy Irregular Stripe, Navy Panel Stripe, Navy Regular Stripe and Navy Wide Stripe (there will be a test at a later date on the difference between these stripes!). As featured in The Sunday Times Style Magazine, 5th April issue (they'd teamed it with the Midnight Blue Throwon Jacket and it looked jolly cool!)
I love a man in a bit of linen (Father of the Children is looking over my shoulder so I'll re-phrase that!) I love Father of the Children in a bit of linen and these Linen Cotton Cargo Shorts from Boden are sensational. They come in 4 wonderful colours - Ecru, Light Khaki, Light Indigo and Navy, all are delicious!
Every little girls dream bag - this Spray Flowers Kids Rucksack from Cath Kidston created big smiles in our house!
These Embellished Cropped Trousers from Boden are so cute and come in sugar (pink) or soft aqua! Prices range from £21.36 - £23.14 depending on the size required (age range 1 - 12 years). At the time of writing these were rated 5/5 on the Boden site from the people who have bought them so I don't think I can add any more to that!
This Junior Captain Boys Sweatshirt from Joules is great for keeping cosy in the long hours of den making outside. It comes in Petrol Stripe, Sea Blue Star and Yellow Stripe. Your worst problem will be choosing which to go for. Age range 3 - 12 years.

I feel I'm regressing back to my childhood with all these songs I've been told to sing recently. Last week I attended a life saving course at Youngest Child's school to enable us (don't panic - the children, not me) to swim in the pool after school. At the end of the course we had to perform resuscitation on a life size dummy (very alarmingly it even wears a t-shirt and shorts in a rather nasty muddy brown colour but that's by the by). To get the right rhythm for the chest pumping we were told to recite Nellie The Elephant during our exertions. Though if I ever have to resuscitate in real life I somehow don't imagine I'll be singing about Nellie! Then this week we've been told that one of the major defences against the latest swine flu epidemic is regular and thorough washing of hands. You should seemingly wash your hands for the length of time it takes to sing Happy Birthday or God Save The Queen. Of course I now find it impossible to wash my hands without singing but saying that I do seem to have a bit of a one track mind at the moment. Earlier today Youngest Child caught me washing my hands while singing The Kinks tune - Dedicated Follower of Fashion - "Eagerly pursuing all the latest fads and trends 'cause (s)he's a dedicated follower of fashion!" That's more like it, I hope you enjoy these latest trends in store right now!
This Crochet Dress from French Connection is a tres pretty and elegant boned strapless daisy crochet dress which will look wonderful this Summer with a suntan, I can't wait!
This multi disk Ef Necklace from French Connection is a wonderful statement piece and comes in Burnished Gold, Turquoise and Silver.
This Carmen Top from Great Plains comes in Panama or Lido Blue and both are marvellous! The twist neck raglan 3/4 sleeve top has pleating at the neck and a banded hem. A joy to behold and VERY wearable!
These Long Linen Trousers from The White Company are so comfy with their drawstring waist and two back pockets. They come in a choice of 4 colours - White, Smoke, Flax and Black.
This Ceriso Satin Underwired Padded Bra and Vintage Satin Shorts Set from Marks & Spencer is stunning and comes in Lilac Mix or Pink Mix. To celebrate it's 125th Anniversary Marks & Spencer have come up with this special limited edition underwear set. The bra is sold at £18.00 and the shorts at £8.00 making a total of £26.00 for a very luxurious looking set. As featured in Red Magazine, June 2009 issue.

I've finally worked out where we're going wrong with all this recession malarky. I read yesterday that, in an initiative designed to boost the local economy, local Government officials in China have been ordered to smoke more cigarettes - nearly a quarter of a million packets more! In a somewhat extreme edict those Officials who "fail to meet their targets" or are caught smoking rival brands manufactured in neighbouring provinces will be fined! Even local schools have been issued with a smoking quota for teachers! I find the shocking naughtiness of this so appealing. We are so hounded here about anything that might be remotely enjoyable - don't drink at all one day, drink one glass to live longer the next day - the claustrophobic nannying of the nation can be so stifling! As I gazed at the lashing rain teaming down the windows on another wet Bank Holiday I decided that the Chinese outlook on life has much to commend it. So I worked my way through the wine rack, enjoyed a whole Hotel Chocolat Barbie Chocolate Box entirely to myself and browsed the Internet for some sensational fashion finds to purchase, all in an entirely selfless act, of course, designed to serve the country and boost the economy!
I am so in love with these Autograph Peeptoe Bow Platform Shoe from Marks & Spencer. They're not exactly suitable for the school run so I'll need to arrange an event to wear them to! They come in Black or Fuchsia and I practically feel they fall in to the essential items category as they're such a mood lifter!
This Limited Collection Pyramid Stud Belt from Marks & Spencer is a real statement belt great for wearing over a blouse and skirt. As featured in You Magazine, 3rd May issue.
No wardrobe should be without a smart black dress which will cover a multitude of occasions. This Show Black Dress from L. K. Bennett fits the bill perfectly. As featured in You Magazine, 3rd May issue.
This Scoop Womens Button Front Vest from Joules is fab. It comes in Creme, Iris Blue, Lobster Pink, Nimbus and Navy. The buttons are so funky and the lace trim makes it a special vest. As featured in Easy Living Magazine, June 2009 issue.
This Bow Coat from Boden is made of a delicious washed soft silk/linen fabric so feels gorgeously soft to the touch. It comes in Black, Espresso, Ivory and Purple all are sure to be a big hit. The Ivory version featured in You Magazine, 3rd March 2009 issue.

I was appalled to read recent research that states that British women wash their bras just six times a year! Even if this were the case would you actually admit it to a researcher? Seemingly we spend £2,700 on our undergarments in our lifetime and buy 4 new bras a year keeping on average 16 in our top drawers (I have a friend, who will remain nameless, who has a complete bra fetish and will be bemused by these stats - in her case you could replace lifetime spend with annual spend!) Anyway, research has shown that each bra gets on average seven outings over an eight week period before being washed - that can't be true? Even Dame Vivienne Westwood claims "I don't wash them. I just put talcum powder on them to clean them." I am not often rendered speechless but this is one of those occasions! Suffice it to say that if I was asked by a researcher which of the following most accurately describes your view on this subject, my tick in the box is likely to settle somewhere around the 'OCD/Hygiene freak' category on the spectrum of possibilities.   In case you feel the need to ditch your bra collection and start afresh here are some delightful on-line finds which will get you off to a jolly good start.
What a fab idea this Dreamshapers Self-Adhesive Nude Bra Nude from La Senza is. Just ideal for wearing with a backless or strapless outfit.
This Body Nudes Plain Underwired Bra from Marks & Spencer is a wardrobe essential. It comes in Latte, Mocha, Cocoa and Light Apricot. Match it to your skin tone for a perfect invisible bra! Low rise string and shorts also available.
This Animal bra from Karen Millen is so on trend for the safari look this season. The silk padded balconette bra has lace edge trim, ribbon under bust and ribbon on the front. Matching knickers and g-string and suspender belt are also available to complete the wild look!
This Adored Embroidered Padded Balcony Bra from Marks & Spencer is so pretty and feminine you'll feel (and look) gorgeous in it. Matching Shorts and High Leg Knickers also available.
This Summer strawberry multiway bra from Oasis is perfect for the Summer strawberry season! How lovely and fresh and tasty it looks! Matching G-string and knickers also available.

I am rather on edge this week. I read last week that The Daily Telegraph had completed a survey to gauge the honesty of the great British public.  A reporter withdrew a £20 note from a cash machine and then walked off leaving the note in the machine. He conducted this experiment in a number of major cities and the honesty of the British public astounded him. People ran after him, calling out desperately trying to give him his money back. The latest experiment was to see how public-spirited we are. The reporter left 50 stamped address envelopes in 4 major cities in locations ranging from train stations, to libraries, outside police stations etc. All are coded so they can see the locations they have been returned from. At the time of writing over half had been popped in a letter box and returned. One individual even paid extra for it to be sent recorded delivery! What a thoroughly honourable bunch we all are. It puts me on edge to think what the next experiment they're going to try is. So if you bump into me next week I'm going to be my nicest most helpful self as I never know if someone may be watching me and adding me to their statistical analysis of human nature. So to kick-off me being extra super nice here are some lovely things I saw on line which would give me immense pleasure to share with you to hopefully bring some joy and happiness into your life, and a lovely life it is too if I may say.
These Limited Collection Tamara Sunglasses from Marks & Spencer are fabulous for cool chicks the Summer. They come in blonde or brown, the choice is yours. The blonde version features in Harper's Bazaar Magazine, June 2009 issue.
This Limited Collection Silk Blend 3/4 Sleeve Parka from Marks & Spencer is magnificent! It has the most wonderful scoop neck, zip fastening, 3/4 length sleeves, tie bow belt and a wonderfully unusual pleated trim. It certainly looks like a designer item not something you'd get on the High Street. I won't tell if you don't tell! As featured in Easy Living Magazine, June 2009 issue.
This Limited Collection Twist Lock Shoulder Bag from Marks & Spencer is so stylish and expensive looking! The strap detail and ribbon make it look extra special and wonderfully feminine. As featured in Easy Living Magazine, June 2009 issue.
This Autograph Exclusive Pure Silk Scarf Print Maxi Dress from Marks & Spencer is gorgeous! The silk halter neck lined maxi dress features the most stunning print and will flatter you immensely!
This Julianna Shoe from French Connection is a sexy peep toe double ankle strap platform shoe and it comes in Dark Tan, Black or Gold. The Dark Tan version features in Easy Living Magazine, June 2009 issue.

Yippee it's a Bank Holiday weekend and, amazingly enough, good weather is forecast! I don't know about you but something weird happens in our house whenever a Bank Holiday is mentioned. Father of the Children, who does extremely minimal cooking throughout the year - he stirred the spag bol ONCE last night and claimed at Supper time to have made it - suddenly decides it's time to get the barbecue out. We'll go through the usual rigmarole of me buying all the ingredients, marinading everything, making salads etc. He will torch half the back garden, then the cooking will go one of two ways. Either everything will be burnt to a cinder, so much so that the children will whisper to me enquiring what it is they're eating. Or it will be so raw a frantic call will go out to turn the oven on as the coals have gone out. I will then be left to scrape the BBQ clean for the next time and he will bask in the chair relaxing and enquiring whether I have enjoyed my night off - happy days! I think this year I really will just leave him to it, recounting the old adage that practice makes perfect, and repair to the office to look at some delightful Summer finds currently available on line.
Okay I know it's not strictly a bag but this Picnic Basket from Joules was too gorgeous to let pass by! The traditional wicker basket is lined in stunning cotton canvas and even comes with a separate canvas cool bag. The basket with antique brass buckles also contains a metal bottle opener, salt and pepper cellars, 4 napkins, plates, plastic wine glasses, knives, forks and spoons. All you need now is the food, the weather and some sensational company!
This Over The Top Dress from White Stuff is gorgeous. The fabric of the 100% cotton voile lightweight printed knee length dress is the prettiest I have seen in yonks. The dress has a crossover chest detail, cap sleeves and a hidden side zip. Gosh it really is terrific, isn't it?
This Tangier Top from Great Plains is exquisite and comes in a choice of White, Funghi, Black and Pansy. The fine ramie linen 3/4 sleeve top with lace square insert and lace trim at the hem will look fab with white jeans.
These Hum Trousers from Great Plains are an oh so smart pair of linen wide leg trousers with a self tie belt (as in made in same fabric not one that does up itself of course that would be called magic!). They come in Black or White and will see you right through the Spring/Summer/Autumn seasons!
This VIVIENNE WESTWOOD - ANGLOMANIA Bourbon Black T-shirt from Sarah Coggles comes in the black featured and also yellow and grey. It's making me thirsty just looking at it!

Father of the Children drew the short straw last night and attended a Parents in Partnership meeting at Eldest Child's school. The topic was MFL (not a football league as I thought but Modern Foreign Languages). He thoroughly enjoyed the meeting but on hearing about it I was so glad he went in my place. On arrival they were directed to a classroom and taught a French lesson with interactive whiteboards and audience participation! I au paired in France for a number of months in my youth but the thought of speaking in French in front of other parents makes me come over all queasy. I mean we can all do a bit of restaurant chat and after a Ricard or two I can talk most French people under the table but not at 7pm in a College classroom in rural England. They were taught animal names and shown games using an intercactive whiteboard and then had to go round the room saying what animals they had. If I was there I would suddenly have had un chien or un chat goodness knows what deux guinea pigs are en français. Anyway, he has come back all enthused and reminded me of the fun times we had shortly after meeting when we attended a French evening class together. Truth be told I only went to show willing whereas he took it all terribly seriously and even bought endless tapes. He's rattling about in the attic as I type searching for said tapes, I am praying that they have bio-degraded as the thought of listening to him asking directions to the nearest railway station in a Rene from 'Allo 'Allo voice and struggling through Le Monde every morning will be too much to bear. I think I'll just settle for some French-inspired nautical treats currently available on line.
This Scoop Neck Pleat Top from Boden is a delightful t-shirt with a wonderful scoop neck and pleat details. It comes in China Blue/Ivory stripe, Grass/Ivory Stripe, Grey Marl/Ivory Stripe, Magenta/Ivory Stripe, Orange/Ivory Stripe and Sea Lion/Ivory Stripe. It will look great this Summer with jeans or shorts, no boat required!
These Stripe Canvas Shoe from White Stuff are perfect for mucking around in this Summer with some capris or shorts. The stripe edging and loop and button fastening are so sweet don't you think?
These Naval Shorts from French Connection come in Great White or Utlity Blue and are perfect for the nautical trend this season.
This Stripy Button Back Sweater from Kew is so nautical it's fabulous! It comes in grey melange or navy and has super front pockets and buttons at the back. It will be great with jeans at the weekend.
This Tempest Jacket from French Connection come in Great White or Utility Blue and is a fantastic military inspired double breasted jacket. Tres chic! As featured in the Daily Telegraph, 15th April 2009.