Shades of Blue

Grab your sunhat, suncream and sunglasses England's temperature hit double digits this weekend and I for one made the most of it. Venturing to the beach for the first time this year...I even got my espadrilles out. 

I must admit it was still a little cold to not wear a jacket. Now it took some convincing for me to buy this grey coat, not because I was in crazy Tokyo city with the lovely shop assistant dressing me in all the 'cool' Japanese style (think wide trousers, clogs and a baseball hat...it was an interesting look), it was because I never thought I would need a 'Spring' coat. A coat purely for the two months where we as Brits have no idea what is going on...will it rain, snow or be hot. 

Do you know what though... a Spring jacket is necessary, it won me round. I was warm but not too warm and it was a nice when the sun decided to disappear. 

The sunglasses are called 'ITS A SIN' and they are amazing, adding an element of coolness to any outfit. Also, your friends will love you for wearing them, as they can check their hair in them constantly. 

I styled this outfit out of the need to be comfortable. Wide leg trousers allow for movement and a break from a skinny fit, that sometimes can get too hot when in the sun. I also think they look stylish and effortless when paired with an equally loose fitting shirt and coat. It's a relaxed look that is perfect for when you're exploring. Pair with espadrilles to further feel like Summer is finally here. 

Outfit Linked Below |

Sunglasses Quay Australia  

Coat Boutique in Tokyo (similar) 

Shirt Topshop (similar) 

Trousers Zara 

Espadrilles Independent in Bluewater (similar) 

Bag Zara

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The Principal on George St, Edinburgh

Where to stay in Edinburgh? ... The Principal on George Street. If you are going for a romantic mini break or you and the girls are heading up north to chill out and spend some time together, this hotel is amazing. 

I can't say a bad word about my stay at The Principal. It's grand and welcoming and will leave you wanting to come back. From the friendly concierges dressed in traditional Kilt attire to the yummiest breakfast and the softest bed. I can't say a bad word about my stay at The Principal. It's grand and welcoming and will leave you wanting to come back. 

Outfit | Dress AllSaints   Bag Mulberry (similar)   Shoes H&M

We stayed in a Guest Room for our three nights whilst in Edinburgh. The finish of the room and little touches made it comfortable and definitely made me go 'wow' when I first walked in. From the impressive bed full of cushions, that yes you do sink into, to the colour scheme. The hotel just oozes cosy cottage vibes, blended with Edinburgh's grand architectural structures, it's an impressive mix that would be daunting if the staff weren't so friendly. 

Whilst you are there take a trip down to The Printing Press, it's the ultra fancy restaurant attached to the hotel. On Sunday opt for the roast dinner it's offered from 12pm - 6pm, it's one of those meals that just melts so deliciously in your mouth. Also, I recommend the Bramble cocktail it's Gin based and goes down pretty well, but also the whisky scene in Edinburgh is big, so if you're not feeling something too fussy go for a simple coke and whisky which is also lovely. 

I need to talk about the location of the hotel. I love that first feeling you get when you land somewhere new and you just walk anywhere get lost and have to work out how to get back. It's my favourite part about travelling! Edinburgh is pretty easy to navigate, you've got Old Town across the bridge (depending where you stay) and you've got New Town. The Principal is located in New Town, just a 2-minute walk from the high street and a 10 minute walk from Old Town. It's a great location and everything is in a walkable distance. There are bars and restaurants a few doors down either side. 

I went for my 22nd birthday, and I couldn't have asked for a better time. I recommend going for three nights and pack them full of exploring, coffee and cake, and cocktails. 

Samantha x

The Milkman, Edinburgh

Calling all coffee lovers. I have found the perfect independent coffee house located on Cockburn Street in Edinburgh's Old Town. The Milkman. It's no fuss interior and organic way of making coffee, creates a natural and calming environment, giving high-street coffee shops a run for their money.

If you are on your way to catch a train, this coffee spot is on the southern side of Waverley Station, or even if you are heading up to wander around the Royal Mile and want something hot to keep your hands warm. I highly recommend. It's a small space but cleverly constructed with its exposed brick and stone walls giving off the ultimate cozy vibe. It has limited seating so grab a take away or if you're lucky enough take a seat and soak in the friendly atmosphere and enjoy one of their amazing looking cakes. 

I opted for a decaf mocha which was a lovely smooth blend. The coffee used is Dear Green and is sourced from Glasgow, one of the only coffee houses to use a Glaswegian roaster.

There are stairs located across the street which will take you straight up to the main street in Old Town. 

I was expecting to have to pile on the layers and wear gloves, scarves and fluffy socks to keep warm in Edinburgh. However, the weather was a blessing and although it was chilly the sun was shining. The one thing you will one hundred percent need to have is a pair of killer comfy shoes as there's a lot of windy cobbled streets to explore...which equals out to walking a hell of a lot. 

These Misspap Jordyn Studded boots add detail and also a bit of extra sass to an outfit. They look expensive having taken inspiration from the sold out buckled Givenchy boots. They are an amazing dupe for these if you don't have a spare eight hundred pounds lying around. I've paired these with an equally studded metallic bag, which I've balanced out with plain jeans a basic knit and a black wool coat, as to not go over the top. The outfit was comfortable and warm enough to walk around and sight-see in Edinburgh. 

Outfit Linked Below |

Jumper Zara

Jeans Topshop

Coat Zara (similar)

Boots Misspap

Hat H&M (similar)

Bag Zara 

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Pink isn't just for Wednesday's | Coconut Lane

Coconut Lane...I am so in love with your products. Any brand that can subtly put a Mean Girl quote into their bio has my vote. Think palm tree prints and all things marble. 

One product I recently ordered from their site was the Rose Gold Mirrored phone case. It's the perfect case and it's multi use, as well as, keeping my phone out of danger of breaking...I'm very clumsy, this case makes applying your lipstick throughout the day or night so easy. Plus who doesn't love a bit of rose gold.

The other product I added to my basket immediently after seeing it was this little quote which says 'stay focused and extra sparkly,' I love things like this they fit my minimal style down to a tee. The handwritten style font is lovely and I just think a quote like this can sometimes be a simple reminder to keep motivated. 

I love the brand and the products make for lovely gifts for birthday's or a pay day treat for yourself, also if thats not enough reason the phone case was delivered in a sparkly pink foil envelope which I mean was amazing. 

Use the promo code : samanthadobbin20 to get an amazing 20% off.

Products Photographed | 

iPhone Case 

Sparkly Quote