Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for sleeping super late.

Wow, this medication is certainly taking over me. I slept until an appalling time today, curled up in a sweet white tee and pink bottoms until lunch time. Luckily, I have Tuesdays free but today feels like such a waste. Once I did wake, I snacked on rice cakes and strawberries for lunch and did a little work before soaking in a hot bath.

However, as willed as I was to be really productive with the rest of the day, I fell back to sleep this afternoon for a good two hours whilst I was in the middle of reading. And I'm ready for bed again! My word, I'm so tired of sleeping.

I've put together such a simple outfit today but it's a classic casual that always looks comfortable and chic. I've started with a tee by James Perse, added some jeans by Adili and thrown on some Dorothy Perkins bangles. Statement pieces come via this cute Chloé bag, Antik Batik sandals and this gorgeous floral bib necklace by Dorothy Perkins.

Sleeping late. by hollieanne featuring Antik Batik sandals

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for book reading.

Tomorrow will see my reviewing a certain book. Covered in gold card, gold leaf flowers, a slash of red for Louboutin-esque shoes and a white silhouette. Behind the cover lies "A good girl comes undone" by Polly Williams. Behind the cover you'll find me- the sensible magazine writer with high aspirations and a certain niceness which can sometimes mean one suffers in this industry. Amongst the pages you'll find a character who reminds me of the love of my life (intelligent, powerful and intriguing no matter how long time passes) and you'll find characters who remind me of my best friend, of my mother, of people I've met through work. It's simply my favourite book because it is one in which I relate to more than any other on the shelves of our libraries and book stores across the world. It may not be a classic but it's mine and I adore it.

Perhaps I should memorise that paragraph and include that in the review tomorrow? I'm sure I'll write something similar. I've been flicking through the pages again today, reading with the type of hunger I only get when I'm put in an enchanting work situation of kissing my darling boyfriend for the first time in two weeks.

What's your favourite book? It surprises me that people often think a favourite book should be "a classic"and something millions of others have enjoyed but a favourite book is simply something which touches you to the point that, by the end of several hours of reading, you feel you actually are the character.

The outfit I've styled for today would be worn for an afternoon reading in a coffee shop, looking outside at the sun and busy people. I've started with this stunning Chloé sequin vest which I've teamed with Topshop jeans and super gorgeous Rupert Sanderson t-bar sandals. Accessories are peachy and nude with a Topshop bag, Barbara Hulanicki for Topshop scarf, bracelets by Miss Selfridge and a fab straw trilby by American Eagle.

Book reading. by hollieanne featuring Chloé tops

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for being sad on a Sunday.

Come on, Hollie, pull yourself together! I keep repeating this in my head but the idea of curling into my bed for several days and crying a few tears feels like the better option. Of course, like any person recovering from years of on/off mental illness, there will be bad days. Today isn't a bad day, as such, I'm no-where near the lows I have experienced in times gone past but I need a major cuddle and perhaps a tiny cry. Crying is healthy, letting it all out is healthy.

I'm not sure what's wrong, perhaps I'm just being a silly hormonal girl or coming down from the high of the past few days? Perhaps it's the end of the holidays and I'm nervous of the next few academic weeks ahead? I'll be fine, I know I will. I'm having a bit of a miserable day just like any other human being experiences.

I've kept busy today and done some more editing and writing. Playing with my guinea pigs also made me smile. Simple pleasures and keeping busy always works. I might go to bed soon and do some reading and call my love and remind him just how much I love him- from his beautiful blond hair to the tip of his toes.

The outfit I've styled for today would be worn for a Sunday lunch with friends and lots of laughing. I am madly in love with this Sonia Rykiel jumper and I've paired it with a Topshop floral skirt and black tights. I've added some incredible Rupert Sanderson platforms and a cute Chloé bag. Finally, I've used some ASOS hair clips and a ring by Oasis.

Sad on a Sunday. by hollieanne featuring Sonia Rykiel sweaters

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for a sunny Easter Monday.

Bank holidays are the best, right? Hope you've all enjoyed that extra day off. What did you get up to? Of course, I was sunning myself in the garden but found myself in crippling pain all day due to my silly kidney infection. Typical that the doctors was shut on the day I really needed it but hopefully I'll be able to get in tomorrow for a checking over.

I managed to do a little spring cleaning today and a little work on the novel but I mainly found myself either sat comfortably enjoying the sun in the garden or watching television, my pain allowing me not to do much else. Never mind, I'm in very good spirits today thanks to a beautiful week planned ahead.

Now for the fashion! I've started with this super sweet English rose print vest from Topshop which I'd wear tucked into these stunning Chloé shorts. I've added a vintage bag and some patent leather flats by Lanvin. Finally, I've added some fab sunglasses and a sweet little ring both from Forever21.

Easter Monday. by hollieanne featuring Forever21 rings

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for hidden comforts.

I'm back! Have you ever found yourself feeling all warm and snuggly just at something so small? That little bit of comfort when you're least expecting it- like a memory, a smell or reading a text or e-mail from a loved one?

My day has been filled with things like that. Waking up this morning, I found myself feeling beautiful and loved more than ever in the mist of domestic bliss and a silly conversation about normality. Mid-morning was spent in Caffé Nero with a blackberry yogurt and a coffee as the rain beat heavy on the widows and I snuggled deeper in my cosy chair and pulled my newspaper closer to my body as if it losing myself deeper in the articles were like a blanket. And now it's evening and I've been wearing a simple outfit of a black vest and pj bottoms but, as I pulled the top over my head, I found myself surrounded by a beautiful smell that brought me back to a precious moment this morning. It's sad but true that I'm finding myself sniffing my top and pulling myself closer and closer to this morning despite time slipping away from me.

Sometimes, when you need reassurance or a little comforting the most, memories and pleasures sink into you without realising until you're tired at the end of the day and you realise what a simple but lovely 24 hours you've had.

The outfit today is simple, it's normal and it's nothing too special but it's the type of outfit I'd wear to go out for that coffee and watch the skies turn grey. The simple pleasures in life are the best. I love the colouring of this pretty Topshop buckle detail trench and, at £65, it's a bit of a steal. I've used a simple grey tee, some jeans by 7 For All Mankind and then added heels by Dorothy Perkins. The finishing touches come from a scarf and ring by Topshop and a Chloé bag. Hope you've had a great day!


Comfort. - by hollieanne on Polyvore.com

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for being back from the spa.

Apologies for lack of blog entry yesterday, the wireless in the hotel happened to break and I annoyed the receptionist for a while until all he did was offer to give me a call when it was working once more. It didn't work again. Sorry!

Anyway, I'm feeling refreshed and so alive. I've had the most perfect weekend filled with lots of giggles, talking, relaxing and the odd glass or two of wine. It's been lovely just to be around with the people I love the most and giggle about dating, love, sex and shoes. I do realise how girly and perhaps stereotypical that sounds but it's highly true and proved the perfect mix for a brilliant weekend.

This morning so the lot of us read magazine and have brunch in Caffé Nero for a while. To me, coffee and magazines and a few friends makes for the perfect Sunday.

Therefore, with Sunday coffee brunch in mind, I've created this very casual number. The cashmere vest is by Crumpet, I've added some simple Topshop skinny jeans and sandals by Chloé. The ring is Dries Van Noten and the large tote is by Miu Miu. Finally, the statement piece of this outfit, a bright Paul Smith scarf. Hope you've had a great weekend.


I'm back. - by hollieanne on Polyvore.com

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for wishing it was sunny.

Spring is my favourite time of year for all things fashion. Not only do we get the A/W fashion weeks (Erdem and Preen have proved to be my favourites so far) but we get that slight bit of sun which is enough to whip out those Escada/Primark sunnies even for the slightest few minutes.

I love dressing in spring because I'm such a girly girl and nothing is better than the feel of a slight breeze against my bare legs or walking around Hyde Park with no shoes on. I love the excitement that summer is round the corner and that I have no plans but to spend several hours a day in an office somewhere in London being paid to write features. Spring, for me, means jeans and flat sandals, cardigans wore unbuttoned with dresses and bare legs, homemade cotton tote bags with painted slogans and more corsages than ever.

But I'm feeling a bit sluggish of late and a bit ill so I've had a need for sun and spring more than ever. This afternoon, in the cold of the late February sky, I wore flat gold sandals with my jeans and silk top and it felt wonderful to feel the cold on my toes. I was rather freezing but there's something about the air on your toes that just feels summery and fresh and clean. I'm craving just a little more sunshine so that I can get away with plain tops, statement necklaces, jeans, flip-flops and huge sunnies more than I can currently.

So I've dressed for spring today! That mix-match feeling of open toe shoes and comfortable winter friendly trousers. This chain detail top by Balmain would be such a staple in my wardrobe and mainly worn dressed down with dark denim jeans for Sunday coffee and newspaper mornings with MYB. I've used some biker style Chloé pants but added some brown Steve Madden platforms to give less of a heavy feel and more light and summery. This incredible bag is the new love of my life and is designed by the ever wonderful Miu Miu who have also designed this super pretty pink hairband. To soften the look and make it really girly, I've used a necklace from Betsey Johnson and a ring available from Evans. Finally, to tie in with the animal print of the bag, I've selected a ring by Just Cavalli. Hope the sun turns up soon...



Wishing for sun. - by hollieanne on Polyvore.com

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for photography in the garden.

I had a final resting day today before I prepare myself to head back into education after a week and a half at home due to illness. I have to admit that I'm a tad nervous about tomorrow for some odd reason but I guess it's like the feeling we all get about going back to school/college/Uni/work after the holidays, isn't it? My mummy sorted me out with cuddles and shakes.

My portfolio pieces are increasingly growing and I'm loving the stuff I'm producing right now. MYB asked me to e-mail some pieces over for his viewing (I heart how interested he is in my work!) and I'm waiting to hear his responses- let's hope they were a hit! I produced a few more pieces today but it makes me nervous as to how close the deadline is to have it all finished. I have by no means started on my "Suri Cruise: My Personal Style Icon" stuff and nor have I even began to pen any words regarding how I ended up in the silly world of journalism (MYB and I, Jan 6th several years ago, All Bar One, Chinese man crossing the road... it's a long but beautiful story). I'm sure I'll manage.

When I wasn't doing portfolio pieces I was out in the garden. My parents have a beautiful garden which I love discovering. I didn't embrace the outdoors and the garden over the summer due to illness so I'm really looking forward to the sun coming along and walking down towards the apple tree via the stepping stones. I've taken the opportunity over these past few days to sneak out amongst the snow and snap away with my camera. We have some beautiful plants and flowers in our garden which have allowed me to take some incredible shots. I'm hoping to venture out amongst the plants and trees more often for some photography sessions. It's my happy place right now.

This super pretty outfit is perfect for staying home and being comfortable and creative in but also warm enough for half an hour out in between the trees and flowers. I find myself in love with this cardigan which is by Oscar de la Renta; it has a major price tag but it's absolutely gorgeous! Under the cardigan I'd wear this sweet little pocket silk tank by Alexander Wang and slip on some simple True Religion jeans. Chloé have produced these simple but pretty stack wedge heels and I've added a wonderful investment buy by Bottege Veneta. Jewellery is all cheap but chic: the owl ring is Miss Selfridge, the earrings are Topshop and this statement necklace is available from ASOS.



Photographs in the garden. - by hollieanne on Polyvore.com

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for a snow day.

Snow, snow, snow! It won't stop, will it? I couldn't make it to my evening class as all buses were called off and I've had many a friend not even make it into work or places of education. I worried about MYB this morning but apparently all is fine as regards snow at his end and he went on being a busy and gorgeous little worker bee at BBC.

My day was rather lovely despite the snow. There's something quite romantic about it all, isn't there? It's a shame I was alone today and didn't have MYB to join me as I locked myself in my home and watched the snow fall outside. I took a huge bubble bath and loved hearing the sound of the hailstones hit my window as I soaked in boiling hot water. I did sneak out into the garden to take some photographs but didn't brave the cold for too long.

I have pencilled in lunch tomorrow with a very dear friend but I shall have to perhaps cancel unless the weather changes for the better overnight but I fear it's going to get worse.

I've therefore dressed for the weather with layers and Ugg boots. I lovelovelove this coat and was shocked to see it's actually from Miss Selfridge- it looks designer! I've gone for a grey Crumpet cashmere cardigan to help stay warm and there's a pretty grey bow top underneath that which is available from Fredflare.com. The jeans are Sass & Bide and I've already mentioned the Ugg boots. These pretty earrings are a steal from Forever21 but the ring is a little more expensive as it's by Gucci. Finally, a gorgeous emerald colour bag by Chloé. Hope you're all safe in the snow!


Snow day! - by hollieanne on Polyvore.com

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 the new year.

Happy New Year! What are your plans for 2009? I'm sure we've all made resolutions, most of them ones we make and break each year, and promised ourselves a better year than the last but I really do think I'll stick to mine. I've been meaning to make a few life changes for a while, mainly involving the size of my hips, so now appears like the perfect time. With Christmas and New Year food and drink pretty much out of the window, I'll be replacing my large glass of wine on an evening for a small one once a week and my chocolate breaks during Monday evening lectures will soon turn into fruit breaks- small changes but they'll do.

Apart from the weight issue, I have the follow plans/resolutions:

1) Go for a mini-break with MYB outside the UK: this is a major one for me (and MYB, of course) as we're both long overdue a holiday. Sadly, we need to straighten things out a little to make sure everyone is fine with us jetting off but that should be sorted by the end of the month and we can then look forward to a little European boutique hotel break. Fun times!

2) Read more: I adore reading, especially media/fashion/marketing/self-help books and need to set time aside each evening to do an hour or so of it. Rather than browsing Facebook for half an hour, I need to pick up that marketing book and learn, learn, learn!

3) Cut down phone calls to the BBF: 5 times a day isn't good for my finances and I could be reading and the like during that time. Shall aim to make it only twice a day from now on!

4) Take more photographs: now that I have my beloved new camera, it shouldn't be a problem. And I've started a Project 365 on Flickr!

5) Make sure my nails are always painted nicely: I currently have a weird grey and pink polka dot thing going on but at least they look perfect. No more chipped nails!

It looks a lot but they're small life changes I've already began to make and look forward to the affect.

I spent today at a hospital appointment and then came home to spend a while cuddling the guinea pigs and taking photos of them: New Year's Day is always dull, right? Therefore, the outfit I've picked for today is casual and will do perfectly for meeting Your Boy for a pub lunch. The Topshop tee is a perfect way to start the year as I aim to be Wonder Woman all year through! The wide leg trousers, a definite staple in any wardrobe, are by Luella Ike and the earrings are, again, Topshop. Keeping with two main colours, I've gone for blue heels from Forever21 and this beauty by Chloé. Red is represented by a Miss Selfridge beret and some pretty gloves by Mulberry. Hope you keep your resolutions!


01/01/2009. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for nightmare sale shopping.

Might just be a short post tonight as I'm having to head up to the hospital for a little chat with the doctor. It's nothing too serious, I'm certainly not ill, but today has been full of slight triggers and I need to be reminded how to cope with them.

But seriously: why is it that when you think you've forgotton all about a bad person in your life, they crop up again when you don't need them to? It was so random tonight, or perhaps not so, and I saw her huge face glaring at me. I need MYB to hug me. This girl, a stupid ex-friend of ours, has probably been snopping around at my online stuff and catching glipses at photos of my love and I laughing like silly idiot and exchanging gifts. I don't mind, per say, but what I do mind is her silly little need to just crop up in my life all the time. MYB is certainly true in his descriptions of her and he's certainly right that I need to wipe her out of my mind all together.

Anyway, that wasn't the point of this post. The point is that I went sale shopping. And what a nightmare! Town was SO packed and I didn't have the £399 I needed to purchase a Mulberry bag in the Fenwicks sale. Gutted! I managed to pick up a few things including some Juicy Couture perfume, a skirt, a beautifully cut dress and some underwear- that will do me.

My back is now killing from carrying all those bags, though. Glad cross-body bags are going to be in next year, it'll take some of the pain away from carrying my Paddington on my arm.

The outfit is very simple today but I think it's safe to say that seven inch platform and couture dresses are out of the question when one is fighting to grab the last £25 MYLA bra, right? This Topshop coat is really pretty and rather Victorian-esque. Under the coat you'll find a rather cute Sonia by Sonia Rykiel t-shirt dress and I've finished the look with black flats, black knee high socks, a Marc Jacobs cross-body purple bag and some Topshop swallow studs. Happy sale shopping!


Sale shopping. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for hurting her back.

Ouch! A simple shopping and lunch day turned into me almost crying with the pain in my back. Not good. I was out for lunch with the family when I slipped on some spilt juice that hadn't been cleaned up, nor had a caution sign stuck up. I was fine at the time but a few hours later, rushing around Toys'R'Us and trying to gather last minute gifts for my brothers, I felt the pain. And it has not stopped, despite taking pills.

I could do with an early night tonight to soothe the pain. I'm wondering if a hot water bottle might help? I certainly think being stretched out in the bed I share with MYB on occasion could help but sadly he is busy and I'm in too much pain to hop on the train.

But if MYB and I were to be enjoying a night of tea, Strictly Come Dancing and cuddles, I'd wear this. The outfit is comfortable, stylish enough to pop out to Tesco with and is a perfect mix of textures. These pants are pretty much my dream pair of trousers but sadly Roberto Cavalli won't stock these satin beauties in my size. Same goes for this amazing Paul Smith tee, really. But I'd probably have better look with a simple grey cashmere cardigan like this one here. Pre-back accident I found myself buying some silver Converse shoes so I've popped some in my set for today. Also featured is a beautiful blue Chloé bag and a kitsch apple ring by Dolly Dagger.


I have broken my back. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for seeking inspiration and researching.

Last night I had a little cry before bedtime. Yesterday was a massive day of reflection due to it being six months since a major (sad) event in my life. I found myself sitting on the sofa alone and knowing MYB (My Yummy Bloke) was out with his work lot. I got a slightly drunken text about 1230am saying he hoped I was "basically very happy"- thanks, MYB. But that was the point, I was crying because I was so happy but at the same time I was sad because I knew that I wouldn't be getting the MYB cuddles in bed of the previous night. Never mind, they'll happen again before I know it.

So, because of all the reflection and the need to make MYB shockingly proud of me, I did a stack load of research and have started to get my portfolio together. I don't come from an art/design background and I take snap-shots that always turn out really nice but it's never something I'd do professionally. I can't draw to save my life. I can't sew (and neither can MYB so if he marries me, we're hiring a tailor). But I can write. And style. And do a bit of pouting which all ends up inspiring me.

Today I am inspired by the following: MYB and I disagreeing on whether Nick Lacey is an idiot or not, Carina Round, MYB's blog post about Sheffield inspiring him, girls from Norway asking my advice, the end of Woolworths' Pick and Mix, sitting on MYB's bed in a long silk nightdress and a cardigan. The latter especially. "It's very decedent, I know" he says as he sips champagne in bed with me. We disagree on Nick Lacey but decadence is never out of the question.

I am a simple things girl. Cupcakes, a new nail paint, digital radios- they do it for me. I am the girl who complies a guinea pig squeak, cookie dough, "Music is Power" by Richard Ashcroft, MYB's love of Zara, walks in the cold and an insatiable need to pop out ideas for selling a brand and turns them into her world. The idea of creating a massive portfolio to impress some of the top universities in the country sort of terrifies me; how do I take the tiny things and turn them into one big thing? I'm sure I'll do it. Tiny steps and all...

With spending most of the day at my desk (laptop, blogs, books, magazines...) I need a sweet little outfit that'll be comfortable but inspire me to create and I think I've managed it here. This Forever21 tee is so cute and I can well imagine my best friend popping it in my stocking this Christmas. The beige Chloé skirt is an office staple, as are the Louboutin flats. Accessories wise I've gone for a sweet bobble hat from Topshop, a vintage bag, a brooch from Urban Outfitters and the most wonderful tea bracelet by Hannah Zakari.



Inspire and research. by hollieanne



Finally, a picture of one of my Christmas gifts from MYB because it is simply the love of my life:

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 having a major cold.

It's the time of year where you can never escape the horrible bugbear that is getting a cold or flu virus. Everyone is sneezing, people are coughing all over the place and your office is littered with stack loads of new tissues. So why do we always act as if it's such a shock when the symptoms start to show?

I noticed it last night. As soon as I came through the door, the sniffles started and the sore throat began to creep up on me. Thankfully, I was fine during the weekend so could enjoy cuddles and cocktails without so much of a splutter in sight but it may well be the weekend that could have caused it.

I ventured out at the weekend, like the legend of any woman who grew up within a 50 mile radius of Newcastle states, without a coat. I wore a pretty strapless and short dress with a very thin shrug cardigan and thin black tights. I was also in the company of a certain someone with a slight sniffle. And it's November! But all the logical reasons didn't stop me cursing and practically crying when I couldn't breath through my left nostril and my muscles ached like mad. Please flu, go away!

I need to be nice and wrapped up today and, as MYB isn't near to provide me with zillions of cuddles, I'll gladly made do with this outfit. I love the draped front cardigans that I own but this Micheal Kors one pretty much beats them all- if only for the colour. Add a striped tee from American Eagle and some slim leg wool pants by Helmut Lang. To keep the chill away, add some cashmere gloves and a pretty floral scarf available from New Look. Lastly, add more colour to cheer yourself up with some dotty Converse and a bright Chloé bag. I think we're all suffering from the dreaded winter illness, aren't we?



Cold and flu. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for reflection.

This weekend was incredible. The best weekend of the year. One of the best weekends ever.

I've always been open about having Borderline Personality Disorder but thing the said mental illness has the most silly name. I guess, to anyone uneducated in mental health terminology, BPD sounds similar to schizophrenia but actually it's more about one's reactions, or perceived reactions, to situations and emotions. BPD has a lot to do with insecurity, perceived ideas of rejection, manic highs and crazed lows and issues to do with identity. Although many people will read this text and think they can occur in "perfectly sane" people, BPD sufferers tend to be more on the extreme side to that point that it's dangerous. Wikipedia is actually a brilliant source of information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Borderline_personality_disorder#Associated_features

So, having had about six years of my life controlled by an illness I could never grasp nor understand, I am finally regaining control. Actually, I'd go as far as saying I am in control. I admit, I still show some major signs of a textbook BPD sufferer but before I'd have every kind of behaviour or emotion associated with it. I am in control of it now.

And this weekend proved that. I'd love to write and write about it but I fear if I do then I'll never stop and I want to re-live the entire weekend over in my head for the rest of my life. This weekend was filled with cocktails, shopping, Starbucks and discussions about the small things. Nothing unusual, right? No. But it was the discussions about what I'm doing with my future which got me. The discussions about where I'm going and, more importantly, who with. I've never been happier.

Being like this, normal and calm and content and blissfully happy, is abnormal to me and it almost feels strange but it really is everything I've ever wanted and this weekend just topped it off. Oh my God!

Let's feel pretty and feminine and twirl about in a pretty Roberto Cavalli dress because, well, why not? Slip over a 3.1 Phillip Lim cardigan to keep out the cold (although, thanks to my company this weekend, I've caught a killer cold so I think it would take more than this chiffon beauty to keep the chill away). I've added some Marni flats and a gorgeous green Chloé bag. For your last accessory, slide this fab apple ring on from Dolly Dagger. Top off with a lip-gloss coated smile!


Reflection. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dress for hospital visits.

Last night, after I published the blog, I took a slight turn for the worst and this morning ended up in hospital. Hmm, they're not my favourite places to say the least but the comfort of my Chloé swinging off my arm and a half decent cup of coffee inside me made me swallow my pride and divulge all my health secrets and tales to an amazing doctor.

So, after a short time in the hospital, I was well enough to pop off home with a prescription for some pills and an explanation that I'm slightly "odd" and "rare". That will do me, Love. As long as I'm not dying!

MYB and BFF were both worried but hopefully today's explanation might calm their beautiful minds a little. It's pretty safe to say that the recent bout of illness has been brought on by stress so I need to leave any issues regarding my father/UCAS/deadlines/MYB's ex-wife very much alone and enjoy a boiling hot bath, trashy TV and evenings wrapped up in the duvet as much as I can. Hopefully I'll be better for Friday when I'm probably spending the full weekend with MYB snuggled up under the duvet with a DVD or two and lots of glasses of wine- can't wait!

Now, the plus side of hospitals is the bloody fit doctors! Dressing For today needs to look comfortable but hot at the same time. OK, so the colour combination is verging on dull but if you're sick, you tend not to feel like dressing in the latest hot pink DKNY slinky dress. I really love this Sonia Rykiel bow sweater as it's the perfect weekend item. Tuck the sweater into this gorgeous office friendly Thurley bubble bow skirt and slip on some cheap Old Navy tights. Add a fab bag from ASOS and a £6 flower ring also from ASOS and then, finally, slip on some incredible Marni heels for extra long legs as you walk down the corridors and try not to vomit as you do so.



Hospital. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for being proud of her best friend.

My best friend is fabulous! I know everyone is bound to say that about their best boy or girl but my cute little button of a best mate deserves all the XBox games, takeaway pizzas and snuggles in the world!

My Weepsie never fails to surprise me- from waking me up on a morning with phone calls to tell me I smell, to serenading me with made up songs and writing me stories about snails named George. If you're ever in need of a creative and rather gorgeous Essex boy, give him a call!

I honest would be lost without him. Most friends are lucky if they speak once a week but Paul and I are never off the phone to one another and tend to speak about five times a day. My boyfriend doesn't mind one bit and has often been around when Paul and I have been having a good old gossip about birds and er...seals.

So, how chuffed was I today to be told that my darling one-time boyfriend of two and a half years had won an award? Hurrah! My best friend, the shy and timid bloke with a love for dumplings and darts, was tonight awarded the "Best Fielder" prize within his local cricket team at a fancy do. Well, Mr. Weepsie, I love you! I can't wait to see him soon and smother his face with loads of kisses. I am proud!

Dressing For is today for having fun and spinning round in circles with your best one. Sure, it's a little silly and out there but it's perfect for a tea party on the living room carpet for 2. We'd make sure we had dumplings at ours. I adore this t-shirt, I'm not sure where it's from to be honest but it is well cute! Slip on a La Garçonne twirly skirt, some Minnie Mouse ears (why not?!) and a graphic bangle. If you have to be sensible, I'd suggest removing the Disney ears and slipping on some Jimmy Choo flats and a Chloé bag.

PS/ Have just rocketed into the "best girlfriend in the world" league. Get in!!!


Cricket. by hollieanne

Hollie-Anne Brooks dresses for dancing to The Saturdays.

Last night, as I watched Ruth fight for her place on X Factor, my mum's bloke made a comment about my weight. Sure, I'm no size 8 and I guess I am overly comfort eating in a time of stress over UCAS and my father but I do think there's zero need for comments like the one he made. I cried. My mum comforted me.

The comforting lasted well into today and I refused to be in the same room as her bloke. I admit, I wanted to make him feel bad and I was rather embarrassed at my current body shape, too.

My mum always has a way of making me feel better no matter what; everyday I think of the couple of years after my dad left when it was just the two of us. The house smelt of perfume and lipstick, we ate cheesecake and Chinese food and cried at girly films nearly every night. I miss those times but they're often repeated when it's just the two of us alone in this new home.

After finally giving in and dressing in a striped top and navy cords, my mum dragged me downstairs and presented me with home-made cheesecake- perhaps not the best thing for a girl with major image issues right now but it worked! With my mum's bloke and my brothers out for the day, my mum and I snuggled up on the sofa and watched Sex And The City: The Movie and giggled at how much of a Carrie Bradshaw wannabe I am (who isn't?!).

But it was letting go and listening to BBC Radio 1 that did it for me. Dancing in the kitchen is something I always, always, always do. When I lived alone, I did it. When I moved back home, it was one of the first things I did and no doubt when I go to Uni/move into a penthouse in New York/live in my shabby chic future Persian country house, I'll do the same. Today's choice was "Up" by The Saturdays. I don't care if some people think they're a cheap Girls Aloud/Sugababes/Spice Girls- I. LOVE. THEM! My mother and I have some sexy dance moves and let's face it, you couldn't shake like we do without lots of bootaaaaaaay!

Sunday if often my favourite day to dress for. It's lazy before the office week starts but it's also pretty and girly for Sunday lunch with your granny. And, can I add before I start explaining this outfit, my gorgeous mum loves this ensemble! I love this Chloé number, it's perfect for slouching in and yet would look amazing glammed up, I also get the impression it would hide one too many Yorkshire Puddings rather well. Add on some Marc by Marc Jacobs (fabulously priced) skinny jeans; there's not really a more pretty yet casual look that I enjoy more than a dress and jeans. Throw on some gold bangles, an amazing Isharya Filigree that should be a modern classic and then wrap your feet in some Grecian style Topshop sandals. Finally, I would happily lick some rather manky feet for this super pretty Bottega Veneta Butterfly intrecciato bag. Until tomorrow...



Untitled by hollieanne