My winter style often consists of me breaking out the brights – it’s especially apt for today’s outfit post considering today is what they call Blue Monday, the most depressing day of the year apparently.
Blue Monday is the term they (they?! who are they?) give to the Monday in January before payday. No one’s been paid since mid December, Christmas credit card bills have come in, the weather is miserable, the New Year celebrations are most definitely over… you get the point. To be honest it’s all a load of nonsense – you can make any day great if you want to – but my trick for beating the winter blues is to pile on the brights, because who doesn’t feel better wearing a bold tangerine orange scarf with a beautiful warm pale grey?
WHO DOESN’T FEEL BETTER WEARING A BOLD TANGERINE ORANGE SCARF WITH A BEAUTIFUL WARM PALE GREY?
However, I’m going to contradict myself right away. For me personally it’s kinda weird that today of ALL days is Blue Monday, as right at this very minute I may either be recovering from an operation or I may well be on the slab being poked and prodded and hopefully(!) having a big cyst taken out of me. Just over a week ago I wrote about the final medical diagnosis for my leg pain that has plagued me for two years, and today I’m having the cyst removed from my abdomen which has been pressing on the nerve and causing all the pain. (At least we HOPE that’s the cause of it.)
SHOP THE LOOK:
I’ve received SO many well wishes here on the blog and through social media – I can’t thank everyone enough for the kind words! I’ve asked my assistant (i.e. my lovely niece) to post something on my Facebook page and send a tweet on my behalf this evening about how it went as many of you have asked for an update if possible… it’s so lovely that you’ve all been so concerned, so thank you a million times over.
(If you haven’t read the post about my operation: I’m booked in for keyhole surgery which would mean I’d have a recovery period of 7-10 days, but there is a chance I may have to be opened up for major surgery – they don’t know till they go in – and then it’ll be six weeks recovery. I won’t know which way it went till I wake up which is the most unnerving part of it all.)
So not only is it Blue Monday, but for me it’s also Operation Day. Or, Operation Leg Pain as I call it.
To add to my woes…
But just to make Blue Monday worse, I missed out on an opportunity on Saturday night that I don’t think I will ever, EVER get over. This is so major I don’t even know where to start… all I can say is, if you’ve got an opportunity to go out somewhere or have an invite for something, DO NOT PASS IT OVER BECAUSE YOU NEVER KNOW WHO MAY BE THERE.
What happened (if you saw my InstaStories on Saturday/Sunday you will know what I’m talking about) was that Keith had an invite to the opening of the new (as in brand new species) ichthyosaur fossil exhibit at the Charmouth Heritage Centre on the Jurassic Coast because he volunteers there at weekends. He also did the illustrations for the centre’s leaflet about the new find. The fossil was featured on last weekend’s BBC programme “Attenborough and the Sea Dragon“… you can guess where I’m going with this, can’t you.
Keith had a plus one and originally I was going to go, but because of my operation and imminent hospital stay I was SO behind with blog work, so I stayed home. Keith said it would be a private event with staff from the centre and a few local press. What he DIDN’T say was that anyone else might be there, like, oh I don’t know… a national treasure, someone who had worked for the BBC for about 60 years, someone known the world over, someone who is loved by EVERYONE when his surname is mentioned, someone who is synonymous with all things wildlife and making documentaries.
Someone like that.
So anyway – Keith got home and VERY casually, after about 10 minutes of fannying about getting his shoes off and making a cup of tea and actually telling me very little about what the evening was like, just happened to say:
“Oh and yeah – I met David Attenborough.”
Me: WHAAAAAAAT?!!!!!!!!”
Now I’m sure that many, many people reading this may have had the same reaction as I did: My jaw dropped open, then there were a few seconds of me staring at his somewhat sheepish expression (that boy KNEW he’d done wrong), then I just burst into floods of tears. I was nothing short of inconsolable.
To be fair, Keith wasn’t told that Sir David had been invited, and no one from the centre knew for sure whether he was going to turn up, but in my eyes IT WAS ALL KEITH’S FAULT AND I HATED HIM. I had a chance to meet Sir David Attenborough and I didn’t take it, but Keith could have FORCED me to go, couldn’t he?! Keith was introduced to him, they had a chat, David said he loved Keith’s illustrations. I’d even told my family about the evening earlier on and said “Oh no, David Attenborough won’t be there…” when they asked.
I asked Keith why he bothered coming home at all, to be honest… 😉
In fact I’m going to stop writing about this now because I’m too upset about this missed opportunity and I have to go to hospital tomorrow (“today” to me being Sunday writing this in advance) and I need to pack my bag. And in case you’re wondering about what he was like, he was just as you’d hope and expect – apparently he was absolutely wonderful. One of those ordinary but extraordinary people, if you see what I mean.
Blue Monday? Yeah, you bet your bottom dollar it’s Blue Monday…!!!!!!
So… do add your outfits to this week’s link up – details below!
HAVE YOU EVER MISSED A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY LIKE I DID TO MEET SOMEONE YOU’D ABSOLUTELY LOVE TO MEET? COMMENT BELOW, OR TAKE IT TO TWITTER @NOTLAMB!
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Scarf: Asos (on sale!)
Coat: Marks & Spencer (similar)
Trousers: M&Co c/o
Bag: Marks & Spencer (similar)
Shoes: Marks & Spencer (also available in black)
Hat: Asos (similar)
Gloves: Topshop (sold out)
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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!
Linking up etiquette…
CLICK HERE to read the rules of linking up (and to grab the #iwillwearwhatilike button). Basically it’s just good manners to link back to here – to leave a comment is even nicer!
Featured favourites
No featured favourites this week due to my trip to hospital I’m afraid… they’ll be back in two weeks!
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!
Linking up to: iwillwearwhatilike, Shoe and Tell, Visible Monday, Fake It Until You Make It, Brilliant Blog Posts, Fun Fashion Friday, Passion for Fashion Friday, Saturday Share Link Up
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links which means if you click through and buy I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.
I love your coat, it is really amazing!
Author
Thank you Leah x
love the pop of colour, I always try to do the same (and in my small town, you get stares because you like fashion and like looking good!) haha! That coat is gorgeous, it looks chic and so warm.
How amazing hubby had a chat with the king of nature. Such an amazing man and an inspiration to us all! Sorry you missed out lovely..think I would’ve chucked a few wobblies!
h x
Author
I can sort of chuckle about it now Heidi but I can’t lie – I’m still gutted…!!!!!
Love love love that color mix Catherine. Totally need a blue coat now 🙂 Will pop over to M&S to check out availabilty. Hope you are fine! xo Sabina
Author
Thanks Sabina – yes I’m on the mend, getting there slowly but surely! x
I can definitely relate to this Catherine – my husband works on BBC Breakfast (I work in the same newsroom sometimes but I was at home that day), and one morning he was vision mixing when I saw David Coverdale from Whitesnake on the sofa…I’ve been a massive fan since I was 13 when I had posters of him on my bedroom wall. I frantically messaged him to get a photo/autograph but he didn’t see his phone in time. He made it so much worse when he told me that the presenter came out of the studio at the end of the programme offering the signed CD to anyone who wanted it…but he didn’t think it was my kind of music! I could have divorced him on the spot!!! A year or so later I found out in advance that Joe Elliott from Def Leppard was on the programme, and as a colleague had offered to restring my electric guitar Pete took it in and got Joe to sign it. I wish I’d have got to meet him (I had to do the school run) but at least I got my guitar signed and some photos! Pete has met David Attenborough twice and says he’s lovely. He’s also been stuck in a lift with the late Sir Patrick Moore twice! Bloody BBC lifts!
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
Author
Oh wow Emma – so many great stories but also some unfortunate missed opportunities… I feel your pain!! Sounds like where you work means you get a lot of opportunities to meet celebs – I used to work in retail in London for many years and saw (or met) many, many famous people, though when they come in every day you didn’t get complacent about it, more used to it. So they had to be someone REALLY amazing like Madonna or the Beckhams for anyone to go out of their way to see them.
My best two were getting to “touch” Joseph Fiennes as I helped him carry his bags out to a taxi (our hands brushed, lol) and meeting Rik Mayall (RIP) who was absolutely hilarious. Great memories…!!
Oh no Catherine, I would be disappointed too. David Attenborough rocks! At least Keith got to meet him and they had a good chat.
If it’s any consolation an old friend once worked as a jewellery maker at the Great Frog store in London. I popped in to see her one day and found out I’d missed Metallica by minutes! But I’m far more gutted that I missed out on seeing The Clash playing because I’d decided to go to see another show that a boy I liked was going to. Must have been mad!
Reading this after your op. Glad things are going well in that department. X
Author
Amazing how many of us have missed opportunities in our lives, Emerald… I guess we should just be grateful for the ones we DON’T miss!
and thank you… feeling not too bad considering, just happy it’s all over x
That is a fantastic coat made even more fabulous by your bright orange scarf! I hope your surgery went well and you heal quickly!
Cheryl Shops | http://www.cherylshops.net
Author
It all went very well thanks Cheryl! xx
Oh dear, real bummer, although I must say I kind of giggled while reading this post, since I fully feel your pain and the confusion of Keith of course. Most people are going crazy over Sir David, but I never really liked him. I’m more of a Jeff Corwin type of gal 😀 Regardless, I saw your instagram update after surgery and I am extremely happy you are fine and dandy and as always extraordinary beautiful.
The bold colors you usually wear make me happy, I hate seeing all black and gray during the winter season
Author
Oh gosh I actually had to look up Jeff Corwin Keit… I don’t know him, I don’t think he’s really known in the UK!
Thank you for those kind words – I’m feeling better bit by bit x
Hi,
Just like all your readers …. I wish you all the very best and a speedy recovery. Just started to read your blogs and therefore just spotted you were going into hospital. Take and look forward to reading more of your blogs.
The colour combo really works you have here and I would never have thought of putting them together. I felt for you about not getting the chance to meet David A, I could almost sense what was going to happen as I started reading the piece ! Boo Hoo !!
I haven’t ordered those lovely M&Co boots….I have my eye on a Mint Velvet bag in the sale and I am now pondering …ha ha !!!!
Get well soon & a big hug x
Author
Karen that’s really lovely of you, thank you so much!! Sorry to make you want to #BuyAllTheThings…!!! 😉
Dearest Catherine – I am envisioning you right now in your hospital room enjoying a big bowl of ice cream; your surgery is behind you and the best case scenario (with the shortest recovery time) is the outcome!! Woohoo!! Hopefully you’ve also recovered from your heartbreak over the missed opportunity to meet David Attenborough…and have been able to forgive Keith for keeping Sir David all to himself. Your cozy-chic outfit with that tangerine scarf reminds me that I own a floral scarf in a similarly juicy shade…and how perfect it would be to brighten up our typically dreary Vancouver January. (Never mind Blue Monday…how about we skip the entire month?!) Sending tons of “get well soon” vibes your way!! XOXO
http://www.StyleIsMyPudding.com
Author
Hehe it was strawberry yoghurt I enjoyed, Monika!! 😉 I had to forgive Keith in the end if I wanted him to look after me post-op, lol!
Thank you for the well wishes – I’m glad it’s all over and that it’s the beginning of the end at last 😀
Oh, Catherine! I’m sorry for not reading your earlier posts about your operation. I hope and pray everything went well. I just checked your Facebook page and see that things went smoothly. Yay! Speedy recovery! Love the bright scarf and the coat. Such a pretty combo. – Amy
http://stylingrannymama.com/
Author
Amy don’t worry – I don’t expect everyone to know everything (that’s why I always explain or refer back in each post)! But thank you, I’m feeling better with each hour that passes 🙂
I really love this look. The colors look great together and I would have never thought of putting them together. Maybe on day I will try it!
Author
I can definitely recommend tangerine as a pick-me-up, Lanae…! x
Love ❤️ your scarf and the coat!! So chic!
Author
thanks Stephanie 🙂
Dear Catherine, wishing you a good recovery! I am sure you made the week start very well with your warm colours and entertaining story for many of you readers (you did for me). Hope some of it radiates back to you. Love, Lieske
Author
Oh bless you lovely Lieske, that’s so nice of you to say!! Thank you, all the well wishes from everyone has been so heartwarming and helpful for the healing process x
I love your color combo, and good luck and wishes for a speedy recovery !!
Author
Rosie sweetheart thank you! x
Poor you Catherine, missing out on meeting Sir David and facing your op. You have much admiration for your hard work, and lots of support from all your readers. Best of luck xx
P.s have tried to leave comments previously but wasn’t able to. Hope the changes you made enable many others to leave comments..
Author
Melody thank you – and I’m just so pleased you can now comment!! It’s been something I’ve wanted (and needed) to do for a long time but could never FIND the time. x
So you’re still married then? Poor you Catherine, you have everyone’s sympathies I’m sure. I do hope that your operation ended up being the least invasive of the two and that you’re up and about soon.
Blue Monday is blue in our house too as it’s my daughter’s birthday which doesn’t really go down well having the world tell you it’s the most depressing day of the year. She still hasn’t forgiven me for my part in this most terrible of days. And you, have you forgiven your dear hubby yet?
Take care and get well soon,
Anna x
Author
Hehe he’s still in the doghouse, Anna… but I needed his help post-op so I guess I HAD to forgive him…! 😉 and thank you x
You look fantastic and wish you a speedy recovery! Thanks for getting this link up for us 🙂
xo,
Janise
Author
No problem, Janise… I won’t let a cyst beat me (even if it was the size of a grapefruit…)!! Thank you hon x
Of course your adorable shoes would match that lovely trench! Of course. 😉 Love this whole comfortable, cozy and stylish look!
Author
Chrissy the shoes are SO comfy!!!! The grey colour will go with so many things, too 🙂 thank you x
Very best wishes for the success of your operation Catherine…a worrying time no doubt Love this outfit on you and that tangerine scarf is the biz! ❤️
Author
Thank you so much Sarah… getting better with each hour that passes! Isn’t the tangerine a happy colour?!!
Oh Catherine I feel your Attenborough pain but you wrote it so well it was funny. I was in 2 minds to go to an event recently and luckily did and met Ben Fogel. Yum. So it could have been worse. You could have missed that!
http://www.muttonstyle.com
Author
Oh lovely Ben Fogel… is there anyone nicer on TV, Anna?! Lucky you!! I have to laugh at me bursting into tears now I look back, but I was SO cross and upset with myself the second he told me 🙁
I would be equally as dismayed at missing the chance to meet my hero Sir David! I hope you do get another chance some day.
And I hope too that everything has gone well with the surgery, and that a major operation was not needed.
Author
I’m going to have to make it my life’s mission to try and meet him, Alexa…! Thankfully major surgery WASN’T needed… I’m doing well and am a very happy bunny 🙂
Yes, tangerine is always mood enhancing, especially this particular tangerine piece. But my main focus this time is healing thoughts. I hope those pros get rid of that irksome cyst with the least fuss possible. Truly. I shall await your update. That you managed to post this linkup is beyond the call. Get well soon. Don’t worry, I suspect you’ll cross paths with Sir David again one day.
Author
Aww thanks lovely Melanie – the cyst is a goner I’m glad to say and it was keyhole only so… RESULT!!
I can totally understand why you would blue! What the what?! My family has just started watching the Planet Earth series as a family affair every evening…and yes, I would have been super irritated had I had that opportunity and missed it. But alas, what is done is done, I suppose, and you will recover from such an awful slight, I am sure. I am sending you lots of healing energy for a quick recovery. And you do look fabulous in your tangerine scarf!
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Author
Thank you for the well wishes Shelbee, I’m getting there slowly but surely! But missing meeting Sir David was still something I’ll never get over…
Oooooh, how could Keith do that to you! Bad man!!
I hope the surgery went alright and wish you a lot of succes with the recovery!
Author
He IS a bad man, isn’t he, Nancy…?! 😉 Thank you, it went well and it was wasn’t major surgery thank goodness x
What a fabulous colour combo – gray and tangerine – who would have thought! Looking forward to ‘hearing’ you doing well and on the road to recovery. Lise
Author
Thanks Lise – getting there slowly but surely! The colours are lovely together aren’t they 🙂
Oh Catherine, I would have been inconsolable too about not meeting Sir David!! A few years ago my husband met Mary Berry, which I was a bit miffed about until a cheesecake she’d baked was produced to mollify me a little.
Thinking of you today, fingers crossed xx
Author
Oh funnily enough Keith brought me back cake that was cut by him Porcelina – it had the same effect as your Mary Berry cheesecake… it only eases the pain a LITTLE! and thank you x
I feel your pain! Who wouldn’t love to meet THE MAN! I love his voice! I love the baby blue, one of my favourite colours and I would never have thought to add the orange. Adds a lovely pop to the outfit. Good luck with the op and I will check the FB later xx
Author
Oh Laurie I’m still devastated I missed him!!!! and thank you x
Hope all goes well. You look super in these colours and I love the eyelashes! Hooked on mine now. Jacqui
mummabstylish
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Thanks so much Jacqui… I agree, there ARE addictive!!
Oh YES to these colours. So beautiful.
Hugs, x.
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Mary thank you!
Awwww, as I type, I’m waiting to get a text from Keith with an update of your operation. We are all thinking about you and can’t wait to hear from you again as soon as you are able. I love this outfit Catherine and you look particularly beautiful in your close-ups. And, David Attenburgh. It’s such a shame you missed out on the opportunity. Poppy and I love him too. Take care sweetie and hear from you soon, Liz xxx http://www.whatlizzyloves.com
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Liz thank you my darling… Poor Keith had so many people to contact, I gave him a huge list, bless him! 😉
Good luck and heal fabulously, Catherine!!!
I always love brightening up our winter days—no matter which day of the week it is.
And I’m sorry you didn’t get to meet the man of the hour—truly, a bummer!!
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Author
Thanks Jodie – WHAT a bummer, eh…?!!!
Get well soon darling girl! thinking of you today!
bestest ever wishes
Ashley x
Author
Ashley my lovely thank you – so glad it’s all over!
I love the tangerine with this coat, such a fun look. Hope you are feeling better and all is going well
Author
Thank you Linda – yes I’m on the mend!