So I've solved the practical clothing issue.

And it's all down in the end to a lovely local company.  Well, actually they're not local local, the designer is in fact from Denmark but we have the first stand alone store of hers in a nearby town.

May I present - Ilse Jacobsen from Denmark.  Now I know lots of you will have heard of her and her wonderful range of clothing but for those who haven't and are still on that eternal hunt for practical clothing that can keep you warm in the rain and snow (school runs and rugby pitch sidelines was my need - mainly the latter as you have to stand out there for hours), look no further - I think I have found the perfect solution. 

I've been following the local shop on Twitter and Instagram and when I asked if they could tell me a bit more about their clothes and boots as I'd seen them out and about on people locally, they asked me down to come down and meet them.  Over a lovely couple of hours in their gorgeous shop in Tunbridge Wells, I explained to them the issue that so many people have contacted me about and a problem I've struggled with for years - practical clothing that doesn't look like you've raided Millets for and are about to climb Everest. 

The shop itself is gorgeous.  (for a start, I had floor envy....)

They asked if I'd like to try out some of their clothes as they were convinced I'd find them dry, warm and stylish.  They even thought they'd sussed my footwear issue.. 

And after a month or so of giving them a good run through, I can now confirm that these clothes are amazing.  They are warm, they are super comfortable, they are waterproof, windproof and do exactly what they say on the tin.  Plus I've had lots of compliments on them from people asking where they're from.  I have this rugby mum thing sussed. 

Starting with the boots - I was advised to choose the tall welly plus the fleece sock which turn a plain welly into a really great looking and warm boot.



It was however a real decision to make between the black and the navy. 





Coat wise again, I took their advice and they said their bestselling Hip-Length Softshell raincoat was a no brainer.  And yes it is.  I opted for plain black as it covers all my bases and I'm still a lover of all things nero, however there are a host of different colours to choose from. 








However for when it's really cold or you just need a lighter coat, they recommended the Down Jacket which you wear on its own or under the Shell above as a layer for extra warmth. 










Their UK store website is under construction but there are loads of pics and details on their facebook page.  Or if you call the store at 6 High Street, Tunbridge Wells, directly for further info, they are super friendly and will get you kitted out with all you need.  I am over the moon with the items I've reviewed and am infinitely grateful to the lovely ladies at the Ilse Jacobsen store in Tunbridge Wells and their Danish counterparts.  Best number to contact them on is 01892 537241.

Expect to see me in these outfits weekly until next Spring (and even then, when it's wet, I shall be sporting them) 

Finishing as per usual with an outfit - this time from the weekend.  Saturday night, party with friends - a hideously late finish but a wonderful evening. And.... drum roll.... the new trousers  Whilst I haven't totally mastered the pleather skinnies, I am rather chuffed with these ones from Zara.  Now it does say online you can handwash them, but the label itself says no wash, no dry clean.... Which is on the minging side surely?  I shall handwash them I think (not quite yet - I can be slightly on the minging side to be fair....) 


Black blouse - Zara
Pleather peg leg trousers - Zara
Black Asymmetrical court shoes - Zara
Bling earrings and bracelet - Forever21
Leopard print clutch bag - Tory Burch 

Have been at home all day and at the Dr's with a poorly 10 year old who is now on anti-b's (first time in at least 5 years as I've never had to ask before if they were gluten free) so fingers crossed they'll put her on the road to recovery quickly.  Spent most of the day sorting out the table plans, cheques and menus for the Winter Ball on Saturday night.  All done and dusted now - one huge job that I may have been putting off... now done.  *punches air* 

Fingers crossed I'm off to London tomorrow (poorly child permitting....prays to god of antibiotics to do their magic, obviously as I want her to not feel so ill........ obviously......) for a lunch at Shoreditch House and then out for drinks with the bestie in London early evening.    Can you believe I haven't even thought about what to wear?!  That's me sorted for the next hour then... ARRGGHH.