I’ve always been a hat girl with a collection to prove it, so each season I tend to find myself purchasing yet another one to add to the wardrobe…
I love fall as an opportunity to play with fashion and layer up again in the cooler weather. It’s also the perfect time to wear a cute hat which for me these days tends to be in the form of a beret, fedora or of course, my favourite baker boy.
I couldn’t wait to wear this out to the pub last Friday. I styled my new baker boy with a pair of black skinny jeans, a check shirt, my classic leather jacker, a cosy scarf and my Grenson boots; effortless, cool-girl, chic vibes.
After the pub I made us a steak dinner for two back at home. We had fillet steaks cooked medium rare, my special crispy new potatoes, sautéed onions, mushrooms, broccolini and asparagus, peppercorn sauce and plenty of salad, because no meal is complete without a heap of greens. A stunning meal too good not to share with you here! Hats off to the chef, moi. 😉
The UK sun is here to stay as it’s set to be a scorching few weeks of glorious sunshine ahead. So with the first heatwave this weekend, I booked an al fresco dinner date with my boyfriend at the Bel and the Dragon in Odiham.
Cowboy boots are having a major comeback and I’m here for it! I finally got a pair from Stradivarius and I’m obsessed; they go with everything from jeans and shorts, to cute dresses and skirts.
With it being almost thirty degrees on Saturday, I paired my boots with denim shorts, a white tank and my oversized Jaeger blazer to keep the chill off my shoulders later into the evening.
We sat outside in the quaint courtyard of the pub which was buzzing on this stunning summers day. I enjoyed a crisp glass of white wine as we browsed the menu and soaked up the wonderful atmosphere.
For dinner I chose a delicious linguine of Devon crab served with spring onions and chopped chilli & garlic, whilst my boyfriend had the grilled 9oz Hampshire ribeye steak medium-rare served with triple-cooked chips and peppercorn sauce.
We also shared a side of roasted broccoli with chilli and garlic. The food was exquisite and the service impeccable, definitely a step-up from your average pub and it felt like such a treat. Very satisfied customers indeed.
We enjoyed another drink together there in the final hours of daylight before heading over to another pub for more drinks with friends. A perfect little summer’s date night with my boyfriend.
I just love getting dressed up and experimenting with cute outfits for our date nights. I’ve always loved my fashion and so these fun evenings out are a chance to get creative and feel fabulous in my carefully curated wardrobe of clothes – cheers to expressing yourself! ❤
Parisian street fashion is famous for its simple yet chic approach to dressing. Sleek silhouettes and effortless basics paired with one or two statement pieces, is the fuss-free formula for that timeless French style.
For our first day strolling the streets of Paris, I wore a pair of classic white skinny jeans from Topshop, a puff sleeve floral red blouse from Abercrombie & Fitch and plaited jackfruit ASOS sliders, accessorised with a subtle pearl anklet and a white beret of course.
Saturday evening we headed to the Moulin Rouge so I dressed for the occasion in my over the knee boots, white Zara skirt-shorts, black Zara ruffle strap square-neck crop and gingham baker boy. So cliche but such a vibe for the Moulin Rouge, c’est bon!
For another day exploring Paris, I opted for comfort with my Grenson boots, camel flare smart trousers from H&M, striped bandeau and statement tortoiseshell cat eye sunnies. Blue and white stripes are such a French classic and paired perfectly with that polished camel tone, il est parfait!
Sundown drinks before dinner we headed down to our hotel courtyard for a charcuterie and vino. I wore my H&M camel flare trousers again, white bone corset bandeau and vintage Prada heels, complete with a cute silk neck scarf to finish that feminine French look.
On our final night in Paris we had to experience the Eiffel Tower lit up by night, so we headed into the centre of the city for dinner. I felt tres chic in my oversized vintage Jaeger green blazer to keep off that evening breeze.
I just love dressing up and embracing the style of the city I am visiting by taking inspiration from the locals themselves. Paris still stands to this day as one of the most classy, chicest fashion capitals of the world…tres tres chic ❤
This weekend I decided to go all out for our date night and booked The Ivy Castle View in Guildford. I had tried to book The Ivy Asia a few weeks back, but with a three month waiting list to get a reservation there, I was happy with the regular Ivy restaurant we know and always enjoy.
I’m obsessed with the art deco inspired interiors featuring eclectic artwork and a vibrant colour palette, I was definitely getting Alice in Wonderland vibes as soon as we arrived at The Ivy Castle View.
Even the ladies bathrooms were decorated with opulent wallpaper and this stunning ceiling of roses, they are just too beautiful not to take a picture of.
The place was buzzing on a Saturday night, yet we were still treated to the same friendly and attentive service from the hosts and our waiters who looked after us for the evening.
We had this lovely, romantic round table for two right by the window overlooking the castle. I was lusting over these gorgeous green palm leaf print sofa chairs too, it really is an interior lovers heaven, every corner of the place there is something different to admire.
To start, we had a cocktail each and of course I couldn’t resist my favourite Espresso Martini in their special salted caramel flavour. My boyfriend had the Surrey Passion made with passionfruit, vodka and rum, a super fruity sweet concoction and showstopper served with a flaming top!
Whilst we don’t usually get starters, we did order the salt-crusted sourdough bread to nibble alongside our cocktails. To our delight they served an entire loaf freshly warmed straight from the oven – sometimes the simple things done well are the most satisfying, it was exquisite.
For mains I actually went for two starters: Roasted Scallops served with crispy potato rösti, pea purée, parmesan sauce and grated truffle, accompanied by a big basket of the Zucchini Fritti. This was a tasty combination of flavours which I paired with a glass of their house white wine from Carinena, Spain.
My boyfriend ordered the Korean Glazed Chicken served with pickled mooli, sesame, avocado and jalapeño sauce, citrus mayonnaise as well as some thick cut chunky chips. Safe to say we devoured the lot and savoured every delectable bite.
Our evening at The Ivy Castle View was wonderful with everything from the drinks and food to the service and experience, it was a 10/10 for me.
The Ivy Collection has a number of restaurants in handpicked locations across the UK, serving modern British cuisine, reflecting the same inimitable service and vibrant surroundings for which The Ivy is loved and revered. A top destination for a boujee date night full of photo opportunities ❤
It’s one week until Christmas and I’m feeling those warm fuzzy festive vibes! This weekend we wrapped up in our winter coats to visit the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Markets and I couldn’t help but get excited by the glistening lights twinkling by night all over the city.
The Cathedral looked magnificent all lit up as we enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the markets whilst we sipped a warming cup of mulled wine.
The streets of Winchester were just beautiful showered in gold fairy lights and I got that leading lady movie moment feeling as me and my boyfriend explored the city in all its glory.
With 8:30pm reservations at The Ivy, we stumbled upon an awesome bar called Overdraft where we enjoyed some pre-dinner drinks.
Arriving at The Ivy, we were escorted to our table amongst the wonderfully eclectic and intricate interiors which make this place so iconic, I’m obsessed!
The atmosphere was buzzing on a Saturday night and the festive cheer was in full swing. We got started with a few Christmas cocktail specials, so I had a Candyfloss concoction served in a champagne flute with a side of pink floss.
As well as the fabulous decor and lovely service, our meals were just as spectacular. I opted for the roasted butternut squash served with buckwheat, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, sesame and pomegranate with crumbled feta cheese, harissa sauce and coriander dressing. My boyfriend had the classic beef burger which I had a taste of too and can confirm was equally exquisite as my own delicious dish.
A final stroll through the picturesque streets of Winchester before we cosied up in the warmth of the car for the journey home. What a perfect date night getting in the festive mood and feeling like we were on set starring in our very own romantic Christmas movie…*Cue The Holiday soundtrack* ❤
I love any excuse to put together a classic cheeseboard alongside a delicious spread of nibbles and plenty of vino too of course! So with my bestie coming over on Saturday evening for a long overdue catchup, I set the table, lit the candles and cracked open a bottle of wine ready for our gals date night.
Hours of chatting and a few bottles of wine later, we could’ve continued nattering away into the early hours. My cheeseboard and perfectly paired nibbles went down a treat – grazing platters really are the best!
Whilst everyday life gets very hectic for us all, me and my bestie can always rely on each other no matter how much time passes. I’m lucky enough to have found my soul sister and cherish these times together very much so ❤
Happy Sunday Babes. I’ve just been chilling in the garden all afternoon today as the UK is finally greeted with some sunshine again. Yesterday we ventured into London for a lovely day strolling around town and exploring new places, before heading to the Shard for sunset.
First stop was Covent Garden and the Seven Dials area for a spot of shopping. I love the vintage stores and boutique shops around here as there is always something new to discover.
For a late lunch we went into the buzzing Seven Dials Market for vegan burritos from Club Mexicana. These were by far the best tasting burritos me and my boyfriend had ever tried – the BBQ jackfruit ‘ribs’ combo was incredible!
Before leaving we went via Neals Yard for that classic Insta worthy shot and a quick coffee to get our caffeine kick for the rest of the arvo.
Next stop was Tower Bridge where I was keen to try Coppa Club for an aperitif. Famous for its outdoor igloos intended for larger parties, we sat inside at the gorgeous bar where I sipped my champagne and felt very fancy indeed.
As sundown drew closer, we headed over to the Shard where we were transported up into the clouds on the 72nd floor…thank fully I’m not too afraid of heights.
The views were spectacular and so interesting to see London from above, all the buildings looked tiny from up there.
Unfortunately sunset was only short given that it was an overcast day, but then seeing the city light up at dusk was still beautiful regardless.
To complete our day out, we had reservations at Cote Brasserie on Southbank. I’m never disappointed at Cote as they deliver such delicious, authentic French food with brilliant service to match too. I had the Paillard Chicken Salad with Frites whilst my boyfriend had the Poulet Breton with Frites. Clean plates all around, it was an exquisite end to the perfect day.
Following our meal we were right by Waterloo station ready to hop onto the next train home. I had the most fabulous day being a tourist in my own city and trying out new places through my guiltiest of pleasures – shopping, eating and drinking ❤ ❤ ❤
Nothing welcomes in the weekend better than after work drinks followed by a Friday evening dinner reservation. And in honour of my favourite day of the week, I wore this fun pair of flared pants with these cute ruffle mules.
Keeping it local, we went to a nearby pub The Crown and Cushion for drinks and dinner. I had a delicious cajun salmon served on a bed of salad, cherry tomatoes, beetroot, olives and sour cream dip, whilst my boyfriend went for his usual rack of ribs and chips, a failsafe classic.
After our dinner date we continued into town for a few more drinks with friends. We even hit the club until the early hours…I don’t think I’ll ever be too old for throwing shapes in the club!
Al fresco dining is always such a wonderful luxury this time of year, so I’ll always opt for a table outside at the pub when the sun does decide to show up here in the UK. Whilst I do love a classic English pub garden, nothing quite beats a good view and a spot over looking the water.
One of the best destinations in the Hampshire area for a beautiful backdrop has to be Heron on the Lake in Fleet. Their outdoor terrace right on the water is stunning and made for the perfect Friday night dinner date this week. The atmosphere was buzzing as the pub filled up with locals winding down after the working week and the late summer sun slowly set over the lake. I enjoyed a few glasses of vino with my boyfriend and we had a delicious dinner with top service from our waiter too. I had the summer salad containing a mix of asparagus, cucumber ribbons, peas, radish, pomegranate seeds, green leaves, a lemongrass dressing and a chargrilled chicken breast on top. Light and delicate with a fresh assortment of seasonal vegetables, this was an exquisite dish.
We continued to enjoy our drinks whilst taking in that beautiful view and soaking up the social atmosphere once more. It sure does feel good to be wining and dining again, the way a Friday night should be spent.
As the weather here in the UK took a rather miserable turn this weekend, the idea of sitting outside in the blustering winds at a local pub wasn’t the most enticing of ways to spend our Saturday evening. So instead we decided to bring date night to us and enjoy the comfort of our beautiful new dining room with a romantic candle lit dinner.
It was the perfect occasion to try out our new black crockery dinner set complete with gorgeous copper cutlery and our Dartington crystal wine glasses. I wanted to keep our table layout simple with those subtle touches of pattern in the Moroccan style coasters and abstract print mini dip bowls.
My look for the evening was casual yet classic, wearing a pair of black ripped skinny jeans and cute leopard print asymmetric crop top to add a little glam. Feeling fresh and flirty with my post lockdown short haircut, I was ready for a cosy date night at home.
Although I eat a predomenantly pescatarian diet, as a treat I do like to indulge in a good piece of chicken or steak every so often to top up those essential vitamins. We got these filet steaks from Lidl which I plated up alongside my special crispy roast new potatoes, charred broccolini, caramelised onions, mushrooms and a rocket salad. These steaks were top quality and cooked to perfection medium-rare, I would call this restaurant standard grub!
Paired with a fruity Merlot French red wine and our favourite chilled tunes playing in the background, this is how date night should be done ❤
Dani Aneka 