Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for cancelling her birthday dinner.

Today has just been a big load of fail from the start and it's got worse. I'm just exhausted and tired. I got very little sleep last night and had an unproductive day of work. When I got home this evening, I took my mother to one side and explained how tired and low I felt. I cancelled dinner with my family tonight despite looking forward to it. I've been in bed since 4:30pm and I just plan on sleeping through the next few days. I'm sorry this entry isn't very happy and smiley, things aren't great tonight.

Anyway, this is the outfit I would have put together for a relaxed dinner with the people I love the most. I've used a vest by Splendid which I'd wear tucked into this stunning Dorothy Perkins skirt. I've added Chanel-a-like shoes from Topshop, an ASOS bangle and an Alexander McQueen scarf. To finish off the look, I've gone for a Marc B envelope stud bag.

Cancelling birthday dinner. by hollieanne featuring Dorothy Perkins knee length skirts

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for being cross.

I've been having a bit of a rough few days- bit low, tired, flu- and I was positive I'd pick myself up today and feel refreshed for the coming week but apparently that wasn't to happen. MYB and I spent all last night chatting and trying to ease our stressed minds and, at a silly hour this morning, we said goodbye and went to sleep happy.

But MYB (My Yummy Bloke) text me and was insistent he spoke to me ASAP. Anyway, we ended up having a little falling out over some information he's been keeping from me (he'll not be around for five whole days as of tomorrow) and I've had to stop myself from crying in public all day because he just added to my stress. Silly, MYB. I adore him, I just wish he'd have had a little more belief in me.

We've made up (and bloody enjoyed it!) and we're swapping texts but my mind still feels busy and cloudy with all the work I have to do this week. I need a holiday.

However, on a positive note, I've gone for a kiss print dress from Dorothy Perkins for all those silly little misunderstandings that couples have that end up in romance and beautifulness. I've added some pink Forever21 flats, a necklace by ASOS and a ring by Betsey Johnson. Finally, I've added the gift which I hope I'll be getting as an "I'm sorry" gift, a beautiful navy Chanel bag. Hope you lot have had a fab weekend!



I was cross. by hollieanne featuring Forever21 flat shoes

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for being made to feel incredibly beautiful by MYB.

That was a long title, wasn't it? My plans for today were mainly revolved around seeing my father this afternoon and having one too many chocolates after he upset me by telling me no man would ever want to marry me or something similar. Besides that? A load of writing and visuals to produce.

But my father came and, as much as he did upset me, I managed the whole day with a huge grin on my face. And this is where MYB comes in. We shared pretty ideas and secrets into the early hours last night and I sent him a text this morning to remind him how much I loved him. In came a day filled with him sending me beautiful texts from his desk to remind me how much he loves me, to tell me he thinks I'm beautiful, to create little plans of spending my birthday in Italy and to share some silly gossip.

It made all the difference to a dull Tuesday which would have been spent feeling a little low after my father's energy draining visit. OK, so my father did go on about how it's unlikely I'll ever settle down and get married (actually, I think I know someone who may well disagree) but I just couldn't stop smiling. A beep every half an hour really made a difference to my day and I've spent tonight in a total daydream about holidays, past memories and our future. I feel secure and happy which I certainly couldn't have said this time last year in terms of my relationship with MYB due to my breakdown. It's nice to feel like this and to have a safe and secure future with the man I want to wake up with for a very long time to come.

OK, exit love and enter fashion? Think so! I've gone from pretty and perfect tonight; something to wear whilst out for dinner with my love and then hitting a few clubs with my female friends into the early hours. This entire outfit is love for me. This purple print zebra print dress is from Rebecca Taylor and I've gone for total work of art shoes in the form of these frill and flower white Viktor & Rolf heels. The bag is clearly a Chanel 2.55 and the hair corsage is from Johnny Loves Rosie. This pretty daisy watch necklace is Marc by Marc Jacobs and the rock is Burberry.


MYB makes me feel beautiful. - by hollieanne on Polyvore.com

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for super happines.

Dear Readers, I feel I may burst with happiness. Will you forgive me if I do so? Lots of love and smooches. Your Dressing For-ista, Hol xx

Do you lot ever have days where not much has happened necessarily but you're just overwhelmed with happiness? OK, so some stuff has happened. I'd love to tell but part of the pleasure is keeping it a secret between myself and the other delicious person and being wrapped up in our own little world.

Happiness, for me, is contentment. If I experience feelings of being content then I'm happy. But sometimes something, or someone, can just induce that extra pop which makes you feel so chilled-out, so blissfully happy that you'd love to bottle feeling and keep it for the days when your hair looks rank due to the rain and you feel like having a tiny cry about it (just me? Thought so!). Today is one of those days.

Actually, the past two days have been a blur of happiness and giggles and lots and lots and lots of super fabulous love. Am I making you throw up yet? This is nice for me, though. I suffer from Borderline Personality Disorder which has, in the past, pulled me to places so low that I cannot even begin to describe. I treasure these seconds, minutes, hours and days of extreme (non-mania induced) genuine happiness like you could never imagine.

I woke up late today after a very late night last night. The past few nights have been rather late ones, to be honest, but well worth every second. I spent the morning in bed relaxing and recalling the previous few nights. I often find it shocking at how happy I am, after everything with my illness, it's just a bit odd being this content and successful and happy in a way that has ZERO to do with my BPD.

Currently listening to "All Dressed Up In Love" by Jennifer Hudson and this song fits the bill for my mood today. The following outfit would be worn out to dinner with my Love, giggling about silly things as we walked into town and kissed in the freezing cold. I mentioned a while back about how much I love wearing black these days and this outfit shoes that black doesn't have to be boring. First off is a simple silk vest by Kain which I'd wear tucked into this stunning Balenciaga tiered skirt. The black tights are standard Topshop ones but look at these Louboutin babies! How stunning are they? The huge bow detailing at the back... *sigh*- perfection! I'm also drooling over this Anthony David New York bag. Jewellery adds to the classy/cool mood of this outfit. The black chain necklace is from Monsoon and the pretty pears are Forever21. The bow brooch, which I'd wear pinned into my hair, is Chanel and the ring is unmistakably also Chanel.



HAPPINESS! - by hollieanne on Polyvore.com

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for the end of a rather nice weekend.

I'm a writer so I should have a problem with the word 'nice' but I do not thus I am using it to describe my weekend. My weekend was a rather divine old one with comfort being the key word. There was lots of Moloko, half drunk glasses of all sorts and cold toes as it snowed.

I ended last night in bed with a fabulous novel a la some 40something. Blissfully happy and locked in a tale of 1930s photographs turning up in library books, MYB called me and I had a decent little moan about my father. MYB and I ended up chatting and giggling for a while and I tried to go sleep but couldn't stop grinning from the previous conversation. Needless to say, I am exhausted today after several hours of early hours texting with my love. Worth it though!

My mother, brothers and I took a brief but sweet shopping trip today and had lunch together. I returned home to find snow and a decent hour on the clock so I took the Sunday newspapers and supplements and spent a while flicking through and reading whatever grabbed my attention enough. The rest of the night has been novel reading, novel writing and Stella McCartney geekiness with MYB. Sunday evening is a rather busy time at his place but I'm hoping to steal him for five minutes tonight to remind him I need his old magazine articles ASAP.

Also, have you ever shared a silly moment of "made up French" madness with your BFF which ended in laughter over the French word for 'goat'? No? Just us then...

I created the outfit for today with Sunday style very much in mind; that need to look stylish as you have lunch out and do some shopping but to also relish in the last few hours before office attire is needed. I've been in love with this Roberto Cavalli blouse for some time now and have finally used it in a set. As much as the the blouse would look great during the week with smart trousers, I've used some Kate Moss for Topshop white skinny jeans and added a flat silver sandal by Miu Miu. Keeping with the silver tones, I've gone for a large bag by See by Chloé and jewellery by Chanel. Hope you've had a great weekend!



Sunday times. - by hollieanne on Polyvore.com

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for tonsillitis.

"You got the tonsils" joked my darling BFF as I struggled not to cry this morning after a diagnosis of tonsillitis. I've been advised to spend at least five days indoors and relaxing but lectures, essays and freelance pieces are calling and I can't ignore them, can I? Anyway, I've seen a gorgeous bag from River Island that I must own so if that's not worth a trip out then I'm not sure what is.

I hardly slept last night and woke up freezing cold despite several blankets. I found myself sending MYB a text around 5am telling him how scared I was because I was in that much pain- sorry if it woke you, MYB. Luckily, early morning sympathy came from my other Boy that is my BFF. He's odd and has irregular sleeping patterns so I wasn't surprised to find him wide awake at 6am. We giggled for well over half an hour and it did add some comfort to what has been a dismal day.

MYB did call me to offer so major comfort during a break from his desk (a super rare opportunity, or so it appears of late) but I'd just drifted off into my first load of decent sleep in about 36 hours so was well mardy with him. Feel bad now but all I have to do is pout and he'll forgive me...or at least I hope!

Onto the outfit, however. It sounds vile but the primary colour of this look is the colour of my tongue and throat- a wonderful shade of white! The outfit is the definitive way to look gorgeous whilst being practical for keeping my fever down. This beautiful dress is See by Chloé and I've added some Jimmy Choo sandals in case one needs to pop out for jelly or chocolate custard (all I can swallow at the moment). The accessories are the main delight for this outfit with the stack rings by Chanel, a gorgeous Grecian style hairband, a Roberto Cavalli flower necklace and a total lust-worth Miu Miu bag.


Tonsillitis chic. - by hollieanne on Polyvore.com

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for dressing in black!

I have become obsessed with the Fashion Darling that is a deep shade of black. This may not appear like anything major but I'm a girl who has never worn black apart from the odd cardigan, vest top or pair of tights.

My mother has already encouraged me to wear black but her lovely comments about how it looked so great on me just passed over my head as black looks great on everyone, right? Perhaps this is true and I've seen many a friend or family member wearing the shade a lot to make them look slimmer but I've never quite got it. Where's all the colour that makes you stand out?

As a bird with decent size hips (that, I can reveal, are 5lb lighter this week!) I've always stayed away from black for thinking people only thought I was wearing it to make myself look slimmer and I've always had confidence is my "hour glass with a bit of a tummy" shape. But the past few days have seen me purchasing a perfect black dress and the love of my life- a black leather jacket. Seeing myself in such a colour and adoring the way I look comes as a shock- much like that of a black-only woman loving the way she looked in bright orange.

Is my style growing up from splashes of purple, pink and yellows to a more serious look of sophisticated black shades or am I just embracing something long overdue? I think it's a mix of both things. In these credit crunch times, it's more about investment pieces and sensible tan boots, black leather jackets, patent black clutches and calf skimming black dresses all come into the equation of being long lasting and sensible. I'm wearing chic flats, dying my hair grown up shades of ginger and making use of sensible peach nail shades. Grow up style here I come! Although I do think the odd pink satin Primark hair bow might be creeping in.

The outfit styled for today is grown up but also fun too. The tee was my starting point for the outfit and it's by one of my all time favourite labels- Sonia by Sonia Rykiel. The skirt is tucked into a Topshop skirt and I've thrown a Miu Miu biker jacket over the top which has amazing pleating detail- well worth the £1,000+ price tag! I've added some black tights, Jil Sander biker boots, a gorgeous Chanel necklace and a Betsey Johnson lace detailed bag. Finally, pin hair back into a chic loose ponytail and tie in a red corsage for ultimate glam but gorgeousness!


Wearing black. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for cosmetics shopping.

What a fabulous day! Don't you just love the days when you swish around town with nothing but your mother and a fringe bag on your arm? Perfect!

Today I said hello to S/S09 ("S/S09? You're such a geek!"- MYB) with a nod to new florals in coral and feather hair accessories. I'm adoring the new season stuff already with the boho look and pretty feminine shades already filtering through onto the high street. Marks and Spencer added soft grey shades and bright blues and pinks to their Limited Collection and New Look showcased a mix of ghastly patterns and pretty frills. On my high street wish list after today? A M&S patent pink tote, a M&S boyfriend blazer, a black leather jacket I spied in New Look and some Marc Jacobs-a-like satin heels from Clarks.

But mummy and I left the clothing behind for all of a few minutes and headed to the cosmetics counter. As I'm sure I've documented on my blog before, my Yummy Mummy has never been one for designer items and favoured cheap alternatives which would never last as long but today I convinced her, in lure of her new career, to really splash out. With thanks to the usual amazing service at the Chanel cosmetics counter, we purchased mascaras, blushers from the new season collection and lipsticks all to give her a boost on her first day. And me? Well, Mummy and I always share but I think I'll be keeping my classic Miami Peach Chanel nail polish all for me.

As I adore Chanel cosmetics so much (the quality, the shades available and the wonderful service and advice), I've added three Chanel pieces to the outfit selected for today. Firstly, we have this timeless yet colourful tweed jacket which is mixed with a curved 2.55 black bag and a pretty flower ring. Coming in a little closer to most price bands, I've used some Acne skinny jeans, a Topshop tee and some quilted French Sole flats. Happy Saturday, Guys!


Cosmetics. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for congratulating her Meme!

My darling mother, after a few months out of work due to being made redundant, landed a dream job today! I am SO utterly proud as she's been so sad since she was made redundant a little while back.

I'd finished lectures for the day and my mother and I met up in search of a perfect black skirt and pretty tan boots. We were gossiping about the usual when, after only an hour of arriving back from her interview, my Yummy Mummy receives a call to say it's good news! Having just purchased tassel bags and cheap Chanel-a-like pumps, we burst into huge tears of happiness.

I'm unsure when she starts but it's very soon and my Yummy Mummy and I are both looking forward to shopping for her new work wardrobe. Well done, Yummy Mummy!

In other news, I gained a Distinction for my philosophy exam meaning I'm on an A grade for the first term. I'm elated. Today is a good day.

I've designed the outfit today as something my Yummy Mummy could wear on her first day as a biology assistant. Although restrictions will be enforced on her choice of clothing, she'd still look gorgeous in this even if it were only to wear on the journey there and back. The pretty tea dress is Diane von Furstenberg- I love the sleeves on this! I've added some maroon Topshop tights, a Marc by Marc Jacobs bag and a topaz watch by Kenneth Jay Lane. The pretty floral earrings and grey Mary-Jane shoes are by Forever21. Well done once more, Yummy Mum!


Congratulations, Mummy! by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for her Dateiversary.

It's my Dateiversary! Actually, the Dateiversary of both MYB and myself. Wondering what it is? Well, my Loves, today marks two years since MYB and I had our very first date! OK, so we haven't been together for 2 years but two years ago today we had our first ever romantic date. And, I can safely say, it was one of the most wonderful days of my life.

On the day that MYB and I went out together romantically, I made the decision to change how things were and within two weeks I was interviewing my favourite band for a journalism piece. What can I say? The man inspires me to no end. It was also the second time I'd ever been to London (I was staying with my BBF for a week or two at the time) and walking through the streets of Kensington, visiting the V&A and walking past LCF students made me realise that this is where I had to be. And nine months later I was. That day changed my life forever.

And I've adored MYB more and more each day since then. It's taken us a long while to finally sort ourselves out and get together properly but it's been more than worth the wait. OK, so we're not in the most straight forward of relationships in terms of the age-gap and his extra family but I wouldn't change it for the world. I'm not saying I want to spend forever with MYB but what I am saying is that, on Janurary 6th 2007, it clicked with me that it was him and only him. Always.

MYB and I are spending this coming weekend together (can't wait!) but this outfit fits the bill for a pretty romantic evening. The dress is by Giambattista Valli; I adore this label and plan to marry in one of their dresses (or an Oscar de la Renta number). I'd pin on this pretty poppy brooch and continue the theme with an ASOS hairband and Chloé ring. The look is stimulated with some incredible heels by Alexander McQueen and a Chanel bag. Finally, for my darling MYB who will remember all those moments we shared in the rain that day- a poppy umbrella!


Dateiversary. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for NYE 2008!

I know you'll all be out at fabulous parties right now and not sitting in wearing your nightwear like I am but I'd like to wish you all a fabulous 2009! Creating Dressing For has been such a highlight of my year and it's been wonderful to read all your kind comments and e-mails in relation to my very first fashion blog. I hope you have a couture filled 2009!

Now, as I said above, I am at home in my nightwear after my NYE plans changed a little. I had planned to spend NYE with MYB but he's spending time with his son tonight and so I'm surrounded by my closest family and drinking lemonade. Rock and roll! I do feel a little sad as to not be spending the night with the most incredible man I have ever dated but I'm pleased he's not cancelled on me for some BBC only party or some such and knowing MYB and his son will be having a fabulous time brings a huge smile to my face. If I was at his tonight? Dinner, The Hills Season 1 on DVD and champagne in bed- pretty much like a normal evening. But I miss him. He's been the thing that has made 2008.

I wish someone could have photographed the two of us back in June: MYB was holding my hand as I was lying in a hospital bed and being told I might not pull through. And yet he still told me I was beautiful and that I was his baby. As much as it was the lowest moment of my life, I'd never felt so beautiful as I knew we could get through anything.

OK, loved-up rubbish over and onto the outfit. Dressing For is modest tonight as it's for spending the evening in with MYB and not at some club. I adore this dress by Emilio Pucci dress and it needs little more than a pair of black tights, a skinny belt and some black Louboutin heels to go with it. I've accessorised further with my dream bag by Mulberry, some cute Chanel bracelets, a Marc Jacobs hairband and a wonderful Vera Wang cocktail ring. Happy 2009 from Dressing For!


NYE with MYB. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for wishing it was still this morning.

I really wish it was still this morning. This time 12 hours ago saw me relaxed, smiling, being hugged and drinking coffee with the man I love. Nothing beats our lie-ins!

I can hardly stop smiling as to concentrate. I have so many memories of the last few beautiful days (I'm being careful what I reveal!) that my head is spinning. MYB really is wonderful.

I can't even begin to type for fear of causing any discomfort for MYB's two but he cannot do much wrong right now. I heart our pub lunches, giggling, walks in the freezing cold, dinners out, wine drinking and cuddles. Oh my God, I'm SO happy!

I wore something really simple and comfortable today as it was freezing cold but this outfit would have been perfect for a day filled with a lazy morning, pub lunch, goodbye cuddles and a final train journey- if only the sun was shining! I adore this coral skirt and it's a snip at around £11 from Forever21. I've paired the skirt with a grey vest and cardigan and pretty blue flats. Finally, a necklace from Urban outfitters, a ring by Fred Flare and a classic Chanel 2.55. I miss him already...


Holding hands, drinking wine... by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for broken zips in New Look.

My Yummy Mummy took me off shopping today to clear my mind after difficult conversations with my father and feeling anxious about stuff to do with MYB. We had a girly day and I dressed in the perfect comfort combination of a dress, jeans, flats and a big chunky pashmina. We pretty much had the perfect Sunday.

As I'm seeing MYB for our Fake Christmas on Wednesday, I wanted to buy something new to get me in the festive spirit and make MYB gobble me up as soon as he saw me step off the train. I headed to my High Street favourite that is New Look and my eyes were drawn to a strapless number that came in black, red and purple...and they were in the sale! I proceeded to the changing rooms with three shades of wonderful dress and firstly tried the black on. The zip was broken. I sent the slightly silly shop assistant to grab me another but she came back and kindly informed me the zip was broken on all the black dresses. And the purple ones. And the red ones. Hence the sale. When I questioned why there was no "This item is broken blah blah blah" sign, the silly shop girl shrugged and clearly thought I was crazy to want decent customer service.

I have no new dress. Woe.

But I'm sure I'd impress MYB in a simple jeans and t-shirt number like this one for Dressing For. I'm in love with this Marc by Marc Jacobs tee- how pretty is it?! I've also used Marc by Marc Jacobs jeans, pretty peachy pink heels and gold tote. This Chanel bracelet is creeping in to the top of my Xmas list and New Look did get something right with this pretty purple flower ring. Until tomorrow...





Broken zips. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for Diet Coke.

Mid-afternoon on a Monday symbolises Starbucks and some sort of fashion marketing book. Like clockwork, I'll take the bus to town and then pop into Fenwicks for a glossy magazine to occupy me at some point within the following 24 hours. I then skip off to Starbucks, usually chatting to my best friend on the phone as I go, and make my order. I sit down on one of the comfortable sofas, always facing outwards as to people watch, and reading whichever enchanting book I've opted for.

But this week was different. The situation was the same but it didn't taste as sweet. I was probably too ill to attend my lecture tonight, I was emotional and exhausted and I've barely eaten all weekend. Against the advice of MYB, I got ready and went along to my class. But my ritual Starbucks probably proved I was still ill. I sat back and my coffee tasted vile. It wasn't the coffee but the weird illness spawned taste in my mouth and I just couldn't relaxed.

I managed to mumble my way through tonight, breaking off for a chat with MYB. It went fine, nothing spectacular, but I became distressed at my huge lack of energy and severe lack of appetite.

Having returned home tonight I did find my taste buds had arrived back but for only one thing. I'm currently sipping on a glass of Diet Coke and it actually tastes wonderful. Apart from coffee, it's the only thing I've consumed since Friday night and, although not the most nutritious of things, I plan on drinking glasses and glasses until it's time for bed. Clearly a trip to the bathroom is going to be needed but I'm chuffed I can finally taste something other than vomit!

As I'm needed lots of energy today, I've gone for bright colours and have started with this Tory Burch long sleeved yellow cardigan. Underneath I've selected an amazing All Saints t-shirt which is heading right to the top of my Christmas list and I've paired it with some pretty skinny off-white jeans by McQ. Accessories are kept simple with some Gap silver flats and Chanel earrings and silver chain bag. I'm sure this outfit, and the Diet Coke, would keep me energised!


Diet Coke. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for an entire weekend of being ill.

As you can tell from my last two entries (or lack of, as the case may be), I've spent the entire weekend really ill. I was fine on Friday afternoon as I spoke to MYB whilst he was waiting in the departure lounge of an airport in the Isle of Man but between his flight taking off and landing, I was struck down with an awful sickness bug.

To be honest, my days have all blurred into one and I've had about six hours sleep in three days. I came down with the illness so suddenly but it lasted all weekend and I ended up throwing up all through the night. I've been totally weak for the past day or two and hardly have the energy to even type this out.

Looks like I'm going to have to cancel my morning meeting tomorrow as to try and make sure I'm fine for my evening lecture. I haven't been out the house all weekend and would kill for some fresh air hence the perfect Sunday afternoon walk outfit for Dressing For today.

How sweet is this Marc by Marc Jacobs knit? It's a perfect office to weekend piece and well worth the approximate price tag of £140. Pair with some simple dark jeans with white stitching, a Miss Selfridge sequin beret and some hoops from Nine West. This anchor necklace by Juicy Couture is going on my Christmas list but it's the shoes and handbag that are the real stars of the show. I'd kill to own some Louis Vuitton luggage but I think given the choice of any of their wonderful pieces of arm candy, I might have to opt for this shiny red number. What a beauty! Finally, a pair of Chanel flats. The pattern and gloss mix of the iconic leather two tone flats look stunning and as classy as any pair of high heels.


Weekend of being ill. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for McDonalds.

My lecture this evening was rather dull, a simple reading and then answering questions about said reading. It didn't work for me so I spent the time gossiping with a friend about the male species, doodling flowers and writing love notes to my love.

I left campus feeling slightly deflated and not full of the buzz that I normally have on a Monday evening. Never mind, eh? The chatting and drawing was nice and I did learn something, I guess.

What made me evening was how hungry I was. M&S provided the muesli this morning and I grabbed a Starbucks coffee but, come 8:30pm, I was really hungry. In came the wonder that is McDonalds. Walking through town and trying to contact MYB (I think he was playing Dad Taxi at the time), I heard a rumble from my stomach and opted for the close to hand branch of McDonalds. I opted for a still Fanta, fried and some fab chicken burger with cheese and nachos on. Nice!

So I'm dressing for the guilty pleasure that is a McDonalds on a freezing cold winter night. You need comfort, you need warmth and a little style. But who is really going to see you? You can afford to be a bit slouchy. And why not? Wrap up warm in this beige cardigan from Republic and pashmina from Forever21. I've gone for a simple jeans a t-shirt look with a cute tee which is also a Forever21 number and jeans by True Religion. Finally, for a tiny bit of glamour just in case anyone does see you, slip on some orange Pedro Garcia flats and a classic quilted Chanel bag on your arm. Until tomorrow...



McDonalds. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for being a little low.

I sounded happy in the entry from yesterday, right? Yeah. Chuffed with shopping purchases and looking forward to flashing my new ginger hair to a crowd of philosophy students (although I failed to mention that...). But yes, I was calm and happy and still feeling amazing from the weekend.

But, although I tried to remain upbeat about spending time with my father, something always gets me. My father is quite toxic for me but I always kid myself that he's changed and perhaps he isn't as bad as I make him out to be in my head. Yes, perhaps my father is just an old romantic and not a man who makes a mess and leaves everyone else to pick up the pieces. Maybe he's not as disinterested in me as I thought he was and maybe- just maybe- he does totally understand what I go through with Borderline Personality Disorder.

I need to stop pretending things can be stars and glitter with my father. I don't mind him but I always come away from seeing him feeling so low for no real reason and then the mood carries on into my life for about a week. My father made a few comments that upset me yesterday. But the thing is, he says things so lightly as if they're total fact when, actually, they're the most offensive things you've ever heard.

And so I felt fragile today. My hair looked limp. My outfit wasn't a bad choice but I just wasn't smiley and upbeat and looking like someone very excited about hearing back from any of her selected University choices.

I had a cry to MYB last night. I'm not sure he could understand me as one minute I was crying about deadlines and stress, the next I was going on about having a cold and at some point I cried my eyes out at how rubbish my father makes me feel. After a long day, I'm not sure a 19 year old bird crying "And now my Chanel mascara is aaaaaaaallllllll down my face!" was exactly what he wanted but he did correctly remind me that it's always sensible to take my make-up off before bedtime. Did MYB make me feel better? A little but I'm starting to think that the only way to feel better regarding my father is to slowly distance myself from him until I feel healthy enough to take on his issues and criticisms.

Onwards and upwards, eh? Slip on this outfit and take a cab to your bloke's house for ice-cream, cuddles and a tiny- mascara free- cry on his shoulder. You know it makes sense! The outfit is simple but cosy and the Chloé bag is big enough to pack a pair of pajama bottoms in case you fall asleep on your bloke's sofa and decide to stay the night. This mohair McQ looks so cosy and would be cute paired with Ugg boots on lazy weekend days. But today I've added a pair of KG tan shoe-boots to help you stand tall and walk confidently no matter how teary you feel. Finish with a simple pink beret and pretty Chanel necklace. Now, cry and moan all you like but know you'll be doing it whilst looking amazing!


Feeling low. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for weekends away.

I can't say much about this weekend, really. I want to, but perhaps it's best not to for fear of complications. A weekend away is just what I need and I want to talk about plans, my company and all in between but I've been asked to keep it low-key. And before you question it, no, I am not off for an illicit affair/filthy weekend with some woman's husband/to sleep around behind MYB's back/to undergo some secret boob job. Quite the opposite, actually. You can probably guess where and who with but not so much why the secrets. I'm not too sure, either.

But anyway, my weekend bag is packed and I raided the Chanel and Lancome beauty counter in House of Fraser this morning for a quick pick me up. I'm all set to go and meet my date for the weekend at 9pm tonight somewhere in Yorkshire (or at least I think it's Yorkshire...).

I spent several hours at the salon this morning having my hair done. I am now a really natural looking shade of ginger and I adore it! Oh my god! I feel like Nicola Roberts but without the size 6 figure, cash and string of "hard-men" boyfriends. I hope it goes down well tonight- I don't see why not!

So, as I'm going to be away until Sunday evening, my lovely Readers get 2 outfits: one for train travel and late evening drinks and the other for a fabulous cocktail drinking and shoe shopping Saturday in a (probably) Yorkshire city.

Friday evening: I need something comfortable to travel in but I also want to look stupidly hot. This DKNY dress is sort of fugly but that's why I love it. It's so fussy so doesn't need much in the need of accessorising so I've picked some simple gold jewellery and some Sigerson Morrison boots that I'd sell MYB to own. All that's needed is a weekend bag in the form of this Balenciaga number and you're done!

Saturday: Saturday calls for a lie-in and a big bubble bath before going out for a light lunch and to raid the Topshop sale. I've gone on a bit of a Sonia Rykiel love-fest with this. The gorgeous coat, sweater dress and killer shoes are all by the lady herself and the tights and bag are Topshop. Grab about 10 shopping bags and a glass of wine to complete the look.

Have a fun weekend!



Friday travels. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for fiesty women.

I'm one of those birds who claims to dislike most women and not get on with them. 90% of you will now be thinking "She must be a flirt/man-eater/rude bitch/up herself". The other 10%, well, you're probably one of the very few females I do get along with.

Why don't girls like girls? Easy, most of them are threatened and a lot are jealous (yes, I did just go there!). So, when a girl and I clash, perhaps it is because she finds my Tory loving personality just a bit much but a lot of the time it may well be because she's jealous. Because, face it, that is the main reason women dislike each other. Hmm, so I'm circle shaped and my nose is a wee bit small and I have a really annoying giggle after several glasses of wine. I'm not saying that I am perfect and every woman should be jealous of me, but what I am saying is that I can see why some women could be. Just like I am jealous of other women (MYB's blonde, thin, intelligent ex to name but one) and just like I will continue to be of other women that I meet. My plus points? A rather decent little journalism career for being 19, a gorgeous and successful bloke, ambition and confidence in my apple shape figure (although I've lost 9lb in 3 weeks so I'm looking more Marilyn than ever before!). It takes a strong woman to admit there are reasons others may be jealous and it takes a confident woman to state her plus points- why don't women do it more often and stop being hard on themselves?

Simple fact is though, I often don't get on with women because they don't enjoy football, a decent pint and a kebab on a night which, by the way, would be my ideal night. I date metrosexuals who come across as being gay but my mates are all football loving blokes who ask me if they can wank over my tits after 11 pints. I always say no, by the way. Anyway...

So, how did I lead with this topic for today? Well, dear Readers, I was having lunch with my Aunt today and we got talking about X Factor. It came as little surprise to me that my Aunt didn't like Ruth ("She always has her bangers out and loves herself") and Rachel ("She's got such a bad attitude"). Hmm, no comment on their singing ability but their apparent attitude. Let's start with Ruth. In truth, 99% of men would love to sleep with Ruth because she's a stunning natural beauty with a body to die for. And as far as Rachel? That woman is an inspiration to all who have been knocked down. Jesus, after what she's been through she's going to have an attitude but if anyone wants to comment on how her attitude is "rude", I'll take you to Brixton and show you what rude is.

I just find, because I'm not slagging off every bit of fat on my body or because I'll use every muscle in my body to make it in the world of journalism, some people can perceive my confidence and ambition as attitude. Women judge confident women wrongly- we're nice, really!

Dressing For could only be about a figure loving dress and some killer heels today, couldn't it? Kicking off with the shoes to give even the most feet phobic people a shoe fetish. They are, of course, Yves Saint Laurent's blue sole beauties which will set you back a total of £415. Worth it? Hell yes! I'm loving this semi-80s style Balenciaga dress- the cut, the monochrome...yum. It'd take a strong woman to pull it off but why can't that be you?! Slip a Chanel classic on your arm and load up on jewels available from Net-A-Porter that you bought yourself, of course. All set to go out and meet your model looking and successful bloke? Slip on some Destiny's Child and shake what your momma gave you because, my word, you look hot!


Woman. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for Halloween.

Boo! It's officially the night of Halloween where brats from round the streets put on plastic masks and take all the sweets out of the tin you didn't like.

I did, however, take my little brother trick or treating this evening and we actually had fun! He wore a skeleton outfit and I threw on my leopard faux fur coat and popped a few gold bow hair clips in to look like ears. Of course, I wasn't trick or treating for myself- the few pennies wouldn't buy me a Chanel and my diet isn't going half bad so I'll pass on the sweets. But my seven year old brother is now covered in chocolate and wondering what to spend his £3 on.

On our way home from an all day shopping trip, my family and I came across a little 3 year old girl with her parents who was out all dressed up as a pumpkin- her little baby walk and the blonde locks coupled with the bright orange outfit was just too cute for words so, as the car was waiting to get out of a lane and onto a main road, we all popped our spare change into her matching pumpkin bucket. Some people dislike Halloween but I think it's super cute!

So, if you're too old (or too cool) to go knocking on doors, try a Halloween party and make Bloody Mary cocktails and scary gingerbread mummies! Yeah, OK, not so cool but never mind. Dressing For is something you could only get away with on October 31st. Start with a rather pretty Topshop cat mask and clip hair back with some Halloween themed bows. Next, an investment piece of a beautiful L'Wren Scott boxy cape- at just over a grand, I'd suggest not dribbling chocolate down it or splashing an extra bloody Mary all over it. Be brave and slip on some silver leggings and top the cat look off with some Louboutin leopard print pumps and an amazing Cavalli Swarovski embellished clutch. Happy Halloween!


Halloween! by hollieanne