Summer Workwear: Pink Trouser Suit and a Perfect Workbag #iwillwearwhatilike

Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt, Jennifer Hamley Model KT Workbag in Aubergine | Not Dressed As Lamb

I may not work in an office any more but that doesn’t stop me loving smart workwear – I’d had my eye on this pale pink trouser suit for a while! I wore it to London last week whilst working and it received no end of compliments

(this would be my third nod to Pantone’s Colour of the Year).

The bag is what I really want to talk about though – some of you may have seen it on my Instagram feed, and those of you that attended the 30-40+ Blogger Meet I hosted last month will know it well. This bag – the Model KT Workbag – is a double award-winning bag designed specifically for working women by Jennifer Hamley England. As Jennifer (Jen) kindly donated a bag for the raffle at the blogger meet we all got to see it in person, and it really is an incredible piece of engineering, and it’s no wonder that she won two awards for it.

(So this week’s #iwillwearwhatilike theme is tote bags or shoppers, but you know by now the theme is optional, don’t you…? Scroll down for further details on the link up 🙂

Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt, white/silver brogues, Jennifer Hamley Model KT Workbag in Aubergine | Not Dressed As Lamb

I was so impressed with the bag that I decided to buy one as soon as they were available to order – I just knew this bag would seriously sort out my life when travelling up and down to London and trying to fit in not just the essentials (phone, wallet, make-up, etc.) but also the things I need for work and longer journeys: Water bottle, laptop or iPad, charging cables, business cards… The list was endless. I’m always in such a mess and I end up with a bulging bag that I can’t do up, especially if I’ve tried to fit my laptop in it.

When I saw Jen talking about and demonstrating her bag on her YouTube channel and then seeing it in person, I (and let me be very clear here) somewhat turned the air blue with my reaction to how amazing this bag would be for me.

It is nothing short of utter perfection in terms of looks and practicality. It holds everything, and it holds it beautifully. PERIOD.

I’ll shut up and let you watch Jen herself talk you through the bag so you can judge for yourself:

Before you wonder whether this is a sponsored post – it isn’t. I bought the bag myself with my own hard-earned pennies within a day of its launch. However, having met Jen in person (she’s incredibly down-to-earth and lovely) and us getting on so well, she contacted me after my purchase to say that she’d like to gift me the bag. I’d already said I’d be promoting the sh*t out of it on my blog as soon as I got mine, but of course that wouldn’t be till October.

This post is not in any way paid for apart from the gift of the bag itself, and what I’m writing wouldn’t be any different if I’d not had my purchase refunded. I’m more than happy to support small brands, especially British ones, but when the product is this good it’s easy peasy. So a massive, massive thank you to Jen – gifting the bag to me was incredibly generous of you…!

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It’s available to order now – it comes in five gorgeous colours: Black, Salamander (orange), Teal, Chocolate and Aubergine (as mine) BUT! you don’t have to choose a colour now. They’re estimated for delivery in October so you don’t have to choose a colour till then. There is currently a £100 discount on the Model KT Workbag plus shipping is free to the US, Canada and the EU.

So in case you hadn’t guessed, I am absolutely loving this bag and Jen’s whole brand and range. If the Model KT is too big for your liking there’s a Mini KT (also on an earlybird offer) and a Sakura purse. I’ve shown the inside of the Model KT and some of the details in the photos further down, you will see why I’m so excited.

Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt, Jennifer Hamley Model KT Workbag in Aubergine | Not Dressed As Lamb

Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt, Jennifer Hamley Model KT Workbag in Aubergine | Not Dressed As Lamb
Above: The inside of the Model KT is the real star of the show. With a pocket or zip pouch for just about everything you can think of, I found it a godsend for work and travelling. On this occasion I took my iPad instead of my laptop, but your iPad goes into the zip-off clutch at the back (see more photos further down for that) and your laptop goes into the padded section in the main part of the bag.

And London residents and visitors will notice the Oyster Card pouch in the bottom right photo: Keep your card in here, simply lift the flap when you’re at the barrier and press [the flap] down to touch in and out – no need to take it out. Absolutely genius.

Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt, Jennifer Hamley Model KT Workbag in Aubergine | Not Dressed As Lamb
The bag is stunning – it couldn’t possibly look any smarter. I’m so thankful to have this bag I think I might actually marry the damn thing 😉

Add your outfits to this week’s link up and you may be featured next week if you’ve linked up a great outfit featuring your own fabulous tote bags or shoppers!

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE MODEL KT WORKBAG? DO YOU THINK THIS WOULD BE A LIFESAVER FOR YOU LIKE IT IS ME? 
COMMENT BELOW!
Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt, Jennifer Hamley Model KT Workbag in Aubergine | Not Dressed As Lamb
Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt, white/silver brogues, Jennifer Hamley Model KT Workbag in Aubergine | Not Dressed As Lamb

Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt, white/silver brogues, Jennifer Hamley Model KT Workbag in Aubergine | Not Dressed As Lamb
Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt, Jennifer Hamley Model KT Workbag in Aubergine | Not Dressed As Lamb
Above: Demonstrating the iPad kept in the zip-off clutch on the back of the bag. On the train I zipped it off and kept it with me to read my Kindle app, while the rest of the bag went into the overhead storage. Another fantastic feature, especially when it gives you a smart clutch to use in the evening.

Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt, white/silver brogues, Jennifer Hamley Model KT Workbag in Aubergine | Not Dressed As Lamb

Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt, Jennifer Hamley Model KT Workbag in Aubergine | Not Dressed As Lamb
Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt, white/silver brogues, Jennifer Hamley Model KT Workbag in Aubergine | Not Dressed As Lamb
Summer workwear: Pale pink trouser suit, blue gingham shirt | Not Dressed As Lamb
Jennifer Hamley England Model KT Workbag c/o | Oasis pink blazer | Oasis belted peg paperbag trousers | M&S shirt (old) | Kelya Shoes white/silver brogues c/o | Le Specs pastel mirror sunglasses via ASOS | Nails Inc ‘Porchester Square’

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 

#iwillwearwhatilike | Not Dressed As Lamb
Thank you for joining the #iwillwearwhatilike link up! This started as a campaign on Instagram in August 2015 where women over 30 wore everything on a journalist’s list of “inappropriate” items for 30+ women (including leopard print, short dresses and oversized sunglasses. Yes, really). It was so popular that I decided to carry it on weekly where women of all ages link up their fabulous style, never mind what anyone tells them not to wear!

The link up goes live every Monday at 3pm UK time and will stay open for a week. Whilst the original article was of course aimed at the 30+, you can be ANY age to link up. The only criteria is that you’re wearing whatever you damn well like!

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An InLinkz Link-up


PLEASE NOTE
This is for linking up what you’ve been wearing (or would like to wear) only. I like to keep it all looking tidy because I’m a bit of a neat-freak, so non-outfit links will be removed – it’s only fair to others linking up!

 

Please be a good sport and do the following…

CLICK HERE to read the rules of linking up (and to grab the #iwillwearwhatilike button)

 

Featured favourites

Fashion bloggers in pastels #iwillwearwhatilike

My favourite PASTEL outfits from last week’s link up:

(L-R) Stylin’ Granny Mama | Funky Forty | In My Joi | Sed Bona | Style After Nine

To get yourself featured next week, link up something following this week’s theme and make sure you’ve included a link back to Not Dressed As Lamb or my button in your post/sidebar!

DO SHARE THE LOVE AND VISIT AS MANY LINKS AS YOU CAN (YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT OTHER LOVELY LIKE-MINDED LADIES YOU MIGHT MEET) – THE ORIGINAL INSTAGRAM CAMPAIGN FORGED SOME WONDERFUL NEW FRIENDSHIPS SO DON’T MISS OUT!

Disclaimer: I was gifted this bag by Jennifer Hamley England but was not compensated for writing this post (click here for my full disclosure). All content is original, however, and opinions are my own and 100% honest.

49 Comments

  1. 15 June 2016 / 1:54 pm

    Stunning look and that bag is awesome x

  2. 13 June 2016 / 2:47 pm

    Thank you so very much for featuring me Catherine!!!
    XO

  3. 11 June 2016 / 3:22 am

    Beautiful suit and the bag is gorgeous!
    I just started a linkup too and would love it if you join.
    Come take a look at CidStyleFile.com #UntamedStyle

    Thanks
    Veronica

  4. 8 June 2016 / 1:36 pm

    Wonderful suit in a perfect color for you, C! And it looks fab with the trainers to complement the dressiness. xox

    Patti
    http://notdeadyetstyle.com

  5. 7 June 2016 / 11:48 pm

    Catherine, I love this outfit and the bag! I have a bag that is similar that I found at a thrift store, but it is not this nice! Thank you so much for picking me as one of your featured favorites from the link up party. I am thrilled! – Amy
    http://www.stylingrannymama.com

  6. 7 June 2016 / 5:06 pm

    That bag is a thing of wonder! Having seen it IRL at the blogger meet and watched the YouTube clips I'm convinced I've got to get one. Not only is it super useful it's also incredibly stylish. Jen is a genius for designing it!

    Emma xxx
    http://www.style-splash.com

  7. 7 June 2016 / 4:46 pm

    What a great "invention"! It's got everything any of us could wish for. The aubergine colour is gorgeous too and it compliments your pink suit beautifully. It was lovely to meet Jen in person at the blogger meet too. Love Liz xxx http://www.whatlizzyloves.com

  8. 7 June 2016 / 2:13 pm

    Oh my gosh, dearest Catherine – I don't know where to start!! You look beyond chic and professional (not being an "office girl" either, I don't own a single suit…but this pretty-in-pink iteration makes me want one stat!) and your new KT Workbag?! It would have simplified my recent flight to Toronto to the 'nth degree!! I LOVE IT!! It's going on my wish list right away!! P.S. So sorry I missed your linkup the past couple of weeks…I was taking a little time off to "hang" with my parents!! 🙂

    StyleIsMyPudding.com

  9. 7 June 2016 / 1:36 pm

    I don't work in an office either, but admire and on the occasion wear "work-wear". That bag is such a gorgeous deep plum shade, and it looks so nice! Definitely looks like it would keep a gal organized!

    Jane
    http://www.unextraordinarilyjane.com

  10. 7 June 2016 / 12:31 pm

    Pink at work is always a good idea!

    I am styling my shorts for Summer this week at the blog – come check it out!

    Have a lovely Tuesday!

    Rebecca
    http://www.redtagchiclosangeles.com

  11. 7 June 2016 / 9:56 am

    Absolutely love that pastel suit Catherine so chic with flat shoes! I am a bit behind, ahead and just spot on today and really happy about joining your link-up again. Thanks for hosting! Sabina

  12. 7 June 2016 / 9:13 am

    Absolutely love this Catherine – I feel honoured to have met you and all the ladies at the 30-40 blogger meet, so many friendships made. Thank you for posting this, I love that you love the bag so much – I'm blown away by your post.
    I think I'll be buying those shoes and trousers too!

    Jen x

  13. 6 June 2016 / 11:41 pm

    I've long been eyeing a blush "suit" of sorts, but was a bit weary of how I'd wear it practically speaking but I think you've just sealed the deal! This is just such a cool look Catherine and that satchel is so fabulously chic and practical. Thank you for sharing this brand!

    Heidi || Wishes & Reality

  14. 6 June 2016 / 10:03 pm

    I completely agree Catherine — though I don't work in an office environment anymore, I still LOVE my workwear. What can I say? Old habits die hard.

    Am particularly in love with the design and functionality of this bag — love how upfront you are about gifting and sponsorships too. You always make me want to buy what you recommend because you really MEAN it.

    And thank you for the feature — I am always so honored such a big blogger as you even stops by my page. From the bottom of my heart, thank you!

    Xoxo,

    Ashley || Sed Bona

    • 11 June 2016 / 8:45 am

      Ashley that's such a nice thing to say (and very encouraging and flattering) – thank you!!!!! xxxxxx

  15. 6 June 2016 / 8:37 pm

    I really like how you made this suit casual with those great shoes!!
    As an organizational freak, the bag is quite amazing—if I were still working, I could see how perfect it'd be for all my "things!"
    jodie
    http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
    ps…thanks for the iwillwearwhatilike campaign—it's really changed the way I think about getting dressed!!

    • 11 June 2016 / 8:44 am

      Hehe I'm an organisational freak too, Jodie!!!! 😉 And thank you for your kind words about #iwillwearwhatilike – I'm so glad it's having a positive effect! x

  16. 6 June 2016 / 7:08 pm

    Great look! And that bag looks really marvelous! 🙂

  17. 6 June 2016 / 7:07 pm

    Since I had the opportunity to actually view and touch the bag – incredible quality indeed and I especially love the colour you have chosen.

    Perfect business bag and a great match with your outfit!

    xx
    Annette | Lady of Style

    • 11 June 2016 / 8:42 am

      I'm so pleased with the aubergine, Annette – it'll go with everything in my wardrobe!! Thank you sweetie x

  18. 6 June 2016 / 6:22 pm

    Your hair is looking fantastic! Love the fringey-ness and gorgeous color!!!!!!
    JJ

    • 11 June 2016 / 8:40 am

      It really is as great IRL, isn't it Michelle?! Thanks my lovely xx

  19. 6 June 2016 / 5:43 pm

    The suit is lovely, and I love, love and WANT the bag, but I cannot get over how WONDERFUL your hair looks, better and better in every shot. Really chic and fabulous!!!
    Besos
    XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXxx

    • 11 June 2016 / 8:40 am

      Ohhh Sacramento you always say the loveliest things, thank you!! x

  20. 6 June 2016 / 5:34 pm

    I love your pants, and that bag is perfect for a carry-on or a business woman.

  21. 6 June 2016 / 5:12 pm

    Very cool bag. It reminds me of those miracle bags they advertised here where you could fit not 1, 2, but 3 liters of bottled water inside, plus everything else in your house. But this one wins HANDS DOWN – it looks great. Love your tailored pastels. Thanks for the linkup!

    • 11 June 2016 / 8:39 am

      I'm determined to fit my actual house itself in my bag, Melanie…!!! ;)) Thank you sweetie x

  22. 6 June 2016 / 4:51 pm

    Hi Catherine!
    What an interesting bag. Looks like it is very organized and also pretty to look at. I love the pale pink pants and the structured blue top looks awesome on you! No need for an office!
    jess xx
    http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com

    • 11 June 2016 / 8:38 am

      No need for an office indeed!! Thank you Jess x

  23. 6 June 2016 / 4:31 pm

    That bag is so ingenious that it could have ONLY been designed by a woman. Amazing… she really thought of everything. I'm sort of dying over how tidy and organised everything is; maybe she could design an office for me next :-D. You look gorgeous in that soft pink, and I'm crazy about those shoes!

    • 10 June 2016 / 8:39 pm

      Hehe yes she probably COULD design other things as she was so good at doing the bag, Lisa!!! And thank you my lovely, MUAH xx

  24. 6 June 2016 / 4:22 pm

    Now that is one gorgeous bag! And doesn't the aubergine work so well with your new suit? Love it! As always, you look stunning, Catherine!
    Suzy xx
    http://www.suzyturner.com

  25. 6 June 2016 / 4:15 pm

    I can see why you're raving about this wonderfully versatile bag, Catherine. It's clearly what every working girl wants, so good for you that you've ended up with yours as a gift. The colour looks fab. I will wait to see what the orange one looks like in October and may have to put it on my Christmas list. I love your oyster pink suit, and of course adore those brogues too.
    Anna x
    annasislandstyle.com

    • 10 June 2016 / 8:38 pm

      The only reason I didn't get orange is because I already have an orange tote, Anna…!! 😉 Thank you sweetie xx

  26. 6 June 2016 / 4:11 pm

    I absolutely love your trouser suit! Such a great color! It truly is your color! 🙂

    Fabulous bag, too! And, yes, a great work bag makes all the difference. I have a work bag that I like, but it doesn't have so many pockets and sections to keep things organized…

    Andrea
    Andrea’s Wellness Notes

    • 6 June 2016 / 9:19 pm

      Thanks Andrea – I've been wearing rather a lot of pale pink lately…!! The bag is really incredible, like you wouldn't believe 🙂

  27. 6 June 2016 / 4:04 pm

    What a great work bag, both stylish, functional and roomy! I love your pink suit with the tie front detail on your trouser as well.

    xo Sheree
    http://poshclassymom.com
    IG: @poshclassymom

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