So the packing dilemma - what's the most important thing?

Ok so this clearly is a "how long is a piece of string" question but to be honest, there is one thing that I think is necessary regardless of where you're going. 

As dressy as your holiday may be (and if you're going away with kids, you're a luckier person than most some may say) at some point there will be the need for comfort. 

And for me, there is nothing more comfortable for relaxing in than good old drawstring trousers.  I was reminded of this on Tuesday when I was feeling the need for slob - ill child who I had to take to the Dr's although he did make a remarkable recovery and so we went out for lunch and I managed to have a not too painful trip to the Supermarket (amazing how much easier it is when you lose a child and have two as opposed to three - one was at football camp).  I needed to stock up on wine and crisps (mother's holiday staples) - as well as another fridge full of food as my children seem to be eating me out of house and home. 

So I dragged my Forever21 bargains from last year out of the cupboard and realised how totally and utterly useful they are for relaxing.   For holidays, they are perfect for travelling, ideal for throwing on for lazy breakfasts as opposed to hanging out in your jamas (only me who doesn't really like doing that?  I don't mind super casual lounge stuff but after 9am I feel icky in my jamas) and there is nothing better to wear snuggling up for a movie night with the kids. 

If you're in a hotel, then these are ideal for throwing on over a swimsuit to go breakfast, ditto for a light lunch with a loose tee over the top.  

Now I've gone for print today - I'm still in the Summer mode and they just bring new life to an old linen plain tee (of which I have many) 

I did see a similar shorts version of these which I posted on Instagram on Tuesday and someone pointed out they have a pair of trousers the same.  Well those ones are sold out now (they are honestly super popular!) but these are very similar. 

Casablanca Printed Trousers £27 from Accessorize 

Another navy pair from Monsoon.  Ariana Printed Trousers £39 


Now my navy ones that I have on are from Forever21 and whilst they don't have the same anymore, they do still have some options worth looking at.  I am so so pleased with mine and for the cost - you really can't go wrong.  Although I won't be teaming mine with black ankle boots.... not these ones. 

Abstract Stripe Joggers from Forever21 £15



Taupe and black Abstract Woven Joggers also from Forever21 £13.50



Tie Dyed Pair in Grey from Forever21 £13.50



Possibly my favourite and yes, it's good old M&S.  These are stunning in the flesh. 

Faux Snakeskin Print Tapered Leg Trousers £22.50



Another snake print - slightly more robust which will stand you in great stead come the cooler months. 

Baum Und Pferdgarten Elan Pants with snakeprint £89



More monochrome at New Look.  I showed this print when I was doing playsuits and I have to say I am still rather taken with it.  These I would definitely still be wearing in the Autumn with ankle boots.

Black Zebra Print Joggers £17.99



Loving a check/grid look from Vero Moda. 

Vero Moda Aya Grid Pattern Trouser £28




Obviously couldn't do trousers without having just a smidge of leopard print. 

Vila Canta Sandshell animal print joggers were £28 now £15



Slightly more expensive but Maison Scotch is a great brand and these will be a rather canny investment for the A/W.  Would look great with trainers, skater shoes or even black ankle boots.  And there's even a co-ordinating sweatshirt if you're feeling matchy matchy.  Not sure I'd go quite that far personally though - for the Summer a plain black, white or grey tee but in the Winter, ideal with a black or grey jumper or sweatshirt. 

Maison Scotch Sweatpants in Geometric Print £93 



A little more colour but still a lovely muted colour palette and not too comedy.  Would look stunning with a classic neutral of black, white or grey but also I love the idea of a pale blue or blush top, even a taupe or a camel. 

Parisian Black Paisley Print Joggers £17.99




Another gorgeous print pair in the sale at FCUK.  Adore the idea of these with a white tee and black blazer. Finish with Black sliders.  Equally these could be dressed up for the evening, I'd say. 

French Connection Tropicana check trousers were £60 now £30




So there we have a pretty good round up of what is out there at the moment.  I really need to get on packing - the weather is looking ummm iffy to say the least.  But at least it's not going to be cold so I am definitely not taking any boots.  I may throw caution to the wind and not take a coat either.  Check.  Me.  Out.  (ok so we all know I will)

Outfits from the last couple of days - been hanging out with the 9yr old.  Yesterday we went shopping and for lunch - necessary trip to clear up the last of the Jack Wills bargains for her (which means one tee shirt...) and the birthday presents for the 5yr old who is 6 when we are away next week.  Oh the excitement. 



White linen tee - Maxx Studio 
Print harem pants - Forever21
White sliders - River Island
Whisky Marcie satchel - Chloe 


Grey cargo pants - Hush
Print quilted biker jacket - Zara
Stone leather sneakers - Gap
Black Diego bag - Alexander Wang

I must get on with the packing - next blog will be from sunny (hopefully....) Suffolk.