Learning to Sew

I have wanted to learn to use a sewing machine for the longest time now, so when my mum booked a sewing workshop for us to attend as a birthday gift I was over the moon. I knew I wanted to learn to make zippered cushion covers, they seemed like something simple to start with and I already had the gold polka dot fabric which was perfect for my bedroom! The sewing workshop was so much fun, I learnt the basics of sewing using a machine, how to insert a zipper and an invisible zipper. I even tried my hand at some appliqué that will eventually end up as a bag for my God Mother. My mum and sister both learnt some different skills like creating button holes, so we can't wait to teach each other and try out some other skills. I am so proud with how my pillows turned out. My next project I'm planning is a Christmas stocking! 

If you are in Suffolk and looking for a sewing workshop you should check out Spinney Brook Workbox, I highly recommend Elizabeth's classes. She has so much patience and she feeds you some delicious home made treats too! 

Polka Dot Proud

J Crew Dress, Shoes & Bracelet, J Crew Factory Necklace, 

Michael Kors Watch, Gorjana Griffin Ring, Vintage Chanel Bag

I had been saving this polka dot dress for my sister's graduation since I purchased it, I knew it was the perfect dress for the occasion! It's one of my favourite dresses in my closet now and I'm sure it's going to be very well used! When the weather starts to cool down I might pair it was a black leather jacket and tights.

Spots, Stripes and Shorts

Zara Tee, Madewell Shorts, Sam Edelman Gigi Sandals, Cole Haan Bag,

Jennifer Zeuner Necklace, Groopdealz Bracelet 

I finally braved some shorts! I was tired of waiting for the weather to warm up so I just went for it! These Madewell ones were a favourite of mine last summer and they are still a favourite this year although these Club Monaco ones are rivalling them.
Also can I take a second to talk about these Zara t-shirts. I got one in white last summer and wore it so much I wish I had purchased more. So as soon as I saw them again this year I grabbed this polka dot one (yes I'm wearing spots and stripes again). They are only £9.99 and come in a section of colours and patterns and are super light weight for summer.

Stacey's Smiles

It's already Friday again so it's time for me to share the things that have made me smile this week! Have a wonderful weekend everyone! 

Perfect Saturday mornings involve stripes, polka dots and flowers! 

My signature wrapping for presents this year.

A beautiful morning view of flowers and my SS Print Shop Hello print.

Cute pick me up's during the week from Forever 21.

An outfit I can't wait to wear! (J Crew Tee & Cafe Capri, Forever 21 Headband)

Golden Prints

J Crew Tee, Vintage Skirt, Miu Miu Flats, Michael Kors Watch,

J Crew Bracelet 

Happy Monday! I am obsessed with this J Crew tee, you've probably seen it on my Instagram already! I loved it paired with jeans (skinny/boyfriend), with shorts (if it even warms up), but I decided to dress it up a bit more at the weekend with this vintage gold pokla dot skirt. I love mixing polka dots and stripes and when there is gold involved even better!

I'm working on cleaning out my closet (again!) and I've started a separate Instagram account to sell some items @staceybcloset! Follow me here.

Stacey's Smiles

Happy Friday!!! I finally made it through the week, I thought it was never going to end! I also surprised myself be managing to walk to and from work every day without falling on the ice once! I'm headed to London tomorrow to catch a showing of Shrek in the West End with my sister! I hope it doesn't snow too much tonight, I don't fancy getting stuck on the train! What's everyone else up to?

A package from Jennifer of Ramblings of a Suburban Mom.

We had so much snow I decided to give my deer some too! 

Making a snowy day bright and cheery with Essie 'Cute as a Button' and Oia Jules

Dreaming of Spring (Old Navy & Anthropologie)

A gorgeous coat from the H&M Trend Collection which is now mine! {image}

Gift Guide: Polka Dot Lovers

Tilly Maison Tray $42, Dorothy Perkins iPad Case £10.50(on sale), ASOS Foil Spot Sweatshirt £22.50 (on sale), Target Xhilaration Pajamas $24.99, Forever 21 Turquoise Make Up Bag $4.80, Forever 21 Glitter Cosmetics Bag £4.90, Kate Spade iPhone Case $40

I thought I'd put together a few Gift Guides in case anyone hasn't done their Christmas shopping yet! If you have a polka dot lover (like me) among your friends and family I'm sure they'd love any of these gifts all priced under $45 and there's some ideas for UK & US girls in here!

Spotty Dotty Ladies

You can't beat a good polka dot print and that's why my sister, mum & I all choose to wear it for the day to celebrate my mum's birthday! I changed my flat sandals to heels, added a vintage bracelet and took the chain off my bag to make a clutch for a quick change to make my outfit more evening appropriate.

Dress L-R, Fat face, Dorothy Perkins, AX Paris

AX Paris Dress, Topshop Sandals & Necklace, H&M Bag, 

Ray-Ban Sunglasses, Michael Kors Watch

Etsy Love: Tilly Maison

After seeing these gorgeous Tilly Maison lucite trays on The Glitter Guide & Nicole's Guide to Style, I knew I had to get my hands on one! I originally had planned on purchasing one of the chevron print trays but then when I checked out the Etsy store I saw this gold confetti tray and knew this one would be the perfect first purchase! I say first purchase because I know I need some more of these trays, and the best thing is you can mix and match them and stack them up!

Carolyn was super sweet and had my tray to me in what seemed like not time at all and I loved how it came packaged in it's own little dust bag! The Tilly Maison Etsy Store is currently closed until mid April but make sure you add it to your favourites for when it reopens!