My Greatest Photographic Moments of 2018 #iwillwearwhatilike

Layering a Midi Dress and Trousers Under a Tailored Coat \ orange floral midi dress \ navy pinstripe tailored coat \ emerald green trousers \ snakeskin and suede ankle boots \ Beara Beara leather backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

The last of my annual round-up posts sees the best photos we took in 2018 (I’m still resisting the urge to jump on the “best outfits of the year” bandwagon…!

While looking through my 2018 photos I realised that we (unusually) didn’t really go anywhere new last year. I think because of Riley’s illness in February and then moving house taking up the whole year (house on sale in March, offer accepted in April, moved in July, latter half of the year sorting out our new home) we didn’t even get a long weekend away, despite our intentions to do so. Therefore the photos are a little lacking in stunning locations, but we at least made the most of a long hot summer and all its glorious sunshine.

So what they lack in location they hopefully more than make up for in light and composition. My favourites are the light in no.2, the colours in no.10 and the sharpness of no.17. Oh, and not forgetting that face in no.22…!

As always I’m showing a wide variety of outfits (as it’s the #iwillwearwhatilike post I thought I should at least MENTION clothes!) – I’ve worn everything from a chiffon gown to heavy biker boots to fancy dress this past 12 months. And I’ve included a few fabulous photos that don’t include an outfit at all: as it’s my greatest photographic moments I thought why not include some other photos that appeared on the blog that I’m proud of? Of course most of the photos were taken by the Instagram Husband Keith, so 99% of praise must go to him.

HOPE YOU LOVE THEM AS MUCH AS I DO – LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS WHICH ONE ARE YOUR FAVOURITE(S)!

P.S. Do add your outfits to this week’s link up at the bottom of the post – and if you’ve added a link to here or my button to your post you may be featured in my monthly Women Who Wear What They Like post!

 

Beautiful lighting

An Ethereal Vintage Evening Dress for the UK Blog Awards: Ivory 70s chiffon dress with balloon sleeves, rhinestones on the bodice and a high neck with pussy bow | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style blog

1. Soft spring backlighting on a vintage chiffon dress

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Layering a Midi Dress and Trousers Under a Tailored Coat \ orange floral midi dress \ navy pinstripe tailored coat \ emerald green trousers \ snakeskin and suede ankle boots \ Beara Beara leather backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

2. Morning sun on a hotel balcony

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How to Wear Soft Tones of Blush and Blue in Winter \ blue tapestry coat, blush pink sweater, camel beret, check trousers, pink ruffle ankle boots | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

3. Winter sunshine casting strong shadows

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A Classic Summer Outfit of Blue and White Stripe Cotton \ Mango stripe cotton dress with lace panel \ tomato red block heel sandals \ straw basket bag | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

4. A golden glow of setting sun on my hair

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Stunning locations & backdrops

Wearing a Psychedelic Florals for Spring Dress: 60 style floral midi dress with asymmetric hem \ summer style \ bright colours \ outfit of the day \ ootd | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

5. The ever-photogenic cherry blossoms

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Futuristic 1940s Style Outfit for the Blade Runner Secret Cinema: striped shirt dress with pillbox hat and birdcage veil, clear raincoat (cosplay \ fancy dress \ costume) | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style blog

6. A secret cinema London location acting as a dystopian 2019 Los Angeles

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Sunset Over the Sea at Ilfracombe: My Detox Retreat Weight Loss Experience at Slimmeria | Not Dressed As Lamb

7. Ilfracombe in North Devon at sunset

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Dressing in Bold, Saturated Autumnal Colours \ check statement coat \ bottle green trousers \ burnt orange heels \ burnt orange suede messenger bag \ mustard yellow sweater | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

8. All the autumnal leaves with all the autumnal colours

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Great composition

Layering a Midi Dress and Trousers Under a Tailored Coat \ orange floral midi dress \ navy pinstripe tailored coat \ emerald green trousers \ snakeskin and suede ankle boots \ Beara Beara leather backpack | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

9. A bold shape filling the frame

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A Day Out in London for Adults: Belgravia (The Berkeley, Pret a Portea afternoon tea) | Not Dressed As Lamb, a blog for over 40 women

10. Perfectly placed afternoon tea

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How to Style a Summer Shirt Dress With Pattern Mixing \ black and white striped midi shirt dress \ leopard clutch and belt \ red slingback block heel shoes | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

11. The winding path with perfect converging lines

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How to Stay Smart and Stylish in the Snow \ winter wear \ winter dressing \ camel wrap coat \ camel fedora hat \ wide leg crop Prince of Wales check trousers \ heritage check pants \ taupe flatform lace-ups | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

12. Imposing 17th-century buildings in the snow

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Damien Hirst's Verity at Ilfracombe harbour - My Detox Retreat Weight Loss Experience at Slimmeria | Not Dressed As Lamb

13. Damien Hurst’s “Verity” sculpture in the late summer sun

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Details, details

How to Wear Soft Tones of Blush and Blue in Winter \ blue tapestry coat, blush pink sweater, camel beret, check trousers, pink ruffle ankle boots | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

14. A beret, sunglasses and statement earrings close up

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Smart Casual Autumnal Jeans and Blazer Outfit | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

15. All eyes on the plants-on-pink tote

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How to style a beret in winter: With a navy pinstripe wool coat, check trousers, a sweater dress and taupe lace ups | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 fashion blog

16. A classic flat shoes shot

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A Classic Summer Outfit of Blue and White Stripe Cotton \ Mango stripe cotton dress with lace panel \ tomato red block heel sandals \ straw basket bag | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

17. A stunning cocktail ring sparkling in the setting sun

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Captured movement

The Perfect Bold, Smart Summer Dress: A Red Ombré Shirt Dress | Not Dressed As Lamb, fashion for women over 40

18. Twirling my birthday party dress

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How to Mix Checks in Autumn, Over 40 Style | Not Dressed As Lamb

19. Shaking out my new ‘do

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Seventies Newsreader Style Blouse for a Night Out \ Anonyme vintage-style patterned blouse \ gold pleated maxi skirt | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

20. A swish of gold pleats

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Special category: Riley photos

How to Keep Cool in the Summer and Still Cover Up \ grey Hot Squash maxi dress with CoolFresh fabric \ floppy straw hat \ straw basket bag \ black cat eye sunglasses \ strappy flat sandals | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 fashion

21. A patient boy in the summer heat

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A Colourful, Stylish Walking the Dog Outfit With Crazy-Comfy Boots \ orange-brown parka \ knee high brown boots \ yellow beanie | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

22. Snuggling up in the winter

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Smart Casual Autumnal Jeans and Blazer Outfit | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

23. Looking proud and regal

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How to Create a Stylish Look With Loose-Fitting Pieces: Longline camel blazer \ navy stripe Breton top \ patterned wide leg trousers pants | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style

24. A “looking sheepish” moment

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Not Dressed As Lamb #iwillwearwhatilike link up

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 Tuesday at around 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!



PLEASE NOTE: This is for linking up WHAT YOU’VE BEEN WEARING ONLY. Non-outfit links will be removed and you might be blocked if you turn out to be a repeat “offender”!

 

Want to receive an email reminder for the next link up?

Please note that due to the new GDPR laws I’m unable to send an email reminder unless you subscribe to the mailing list of your own accord. CLICK HERE if you wish to be sent an email with a reminder to link up to the #iwillwearwhatilike link up as soon as it’s live!

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!

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56 Comments

  1. 29 January 2019 / 9:59 am

    All your photos are lovely and especially I like the plants-on-pink tote shot so much. All those shots are just perfect and beautiful. The vintage chiffon dress makes you more gorgeous.

  2. 22 January 2019 / 2:28 pm

    A fun look back. You caught some great shots and also gave some great inspiration for all of us to use. Thanks!

  3. Richa Agrwal
    16 January 2019 / 5:00 pm

    As someone has just started out in the world of blogging, I need all the tips I can get. I am so grateful for these ideas!

    • catherine
      Author
      16 January 2019 / 11:43 pm

      Thanks Richa! Good luck 😀

  4. 14 January 2019 / 8:58 am

    Well, you may not have taken the ” new ” route in 2018 but priceless are the locations and YOU! And well done InstaHubs for your SUPERB photographic skills and eye for a good shot!
    Hugs, Mary x.
    thepoutingpensioner.blogspot.com

    • catherine
      Author
      16 January 2019 / 11:43 pm

      Aww Mary I’ll tell him – and thank you!! x

  5. 14 January 2019 / 2:01 am

    Beautiful photos. Thanks for hosting and I hope that you have a wonderful week

    • catherine
      Author
      16 January 2019 / 11:43 pm

      That’s so kind of you, thank you Patrick!

  6. 10 January 2019 / 1:16 pm

    Every one a winner Catherine. Each photo shows just how much skill you and Keith have and without a doubt it’s inspiring. I have to mention your secret cinema shot in particular is just so bloody incredible.
    The poses you both strike and the graffiti background are brilliant for sure. But its the absolutely awesome costumes you put together that blows my mind!

    • catherine
      Author
      16 January 2019 / 11:44 pm

      Aww MT thank you – I think that outfit was one of my faves from last year, when I put it all on it just totally WORKED and I was so relieved… you never know with fancy dress!!

  7. 10 January 2019 / 3:25 am

    so happy you dedicated a section to Riley pictures. I kept scrolling going where is the puppy…. he is so regal. The birthday twirl was always one of my favs

    • catherine
      Author
      16 January 2019 / 11:45 pm

      Hehe well I couldn’t NOT give him his own feature section, could I Linda…?! 😉 lol
      Thank you my lovely xx

  8. 9 January 2019 / 6:50 pm

    I am always in awe over your photography. It is so good. I am glad you showed us there as a line-up. Clicking a camera is not the same as being able to take great photos. I found that out a long time ago. The little knowledge that I have, I have from you, from your tutorials. And I don’t think I will ever have “the eye”.
    Hats off to you.
    Greetje

    • 9 January 2019 / 7:04 pm

      Oh and I am linking up to your post next Sunday, when I publish a new post. To give more exposure.
      G

  9. 9 January 2019 / 1:20 pm

    Amazing photos! The lighting in your photos is always amazing!

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 5:28 pm

      Oh thank you so much Andrea! Quite surprising seeing as I live in mostly-gloomy England…!

  10. 9 January 2019 / 1:09 pm

    Stunning photos all. Loving the diverse shots here too in framing, composition, light and subject. We have to do a shoot together at some point! x

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 1:12 pm

      Oh Vicki that would be great – though can you imagine us not talking at any time to get a decent shot?! We’d be talking and laughing the whole way through I bet!!!!!!! 😉

      Thank you hon xx

  11. 9 January 2019 / 1:00 pm

    Your photography is always fantastic – so clear and colours perfect. I have learnt a lot from your photography tips being new to it myself, practise is key. I am on the hunt for a 50mm lens as I have an 18 – 135mm and the 50mm may be more suitable. Keep on inspiring!!
    Alison xx

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 1:08 pm

      Alison the 50mm lens is DEFINITELY the one you want – no distortion to your body that way! Also make sure it’s a “fast” lens – meaning it has a maximum aperture of at least f1.8 or f2. Most 50mm lenses will have a max aperture of that… but do check.
      Thank you for the lovely compliments, I’m so glad the tips have helped! x

      • catherine
        Author
        9 January 2019 / 1:11 pm

        Of course you *could* just set your 18-135mm to the 50mm setting, but I doubt it can be set to an aperture of f1.8 or f2 (it sounds like you have a kit lens, i.e. the lens they just give you when you’re buying the camera body). Most of these aren’t fast at all, so yes: a fast 50mm is what to go for if you’re shooting outfit photos 😀

        • 12 January 2019 / 2:12 am

          Yes, you’re right it’s the kit lens. I’ll keep searching for a fast 50 mm.
          Many thanks
          Alison xx

        • 16 January 2019 / 5:01 pm

          Catherine,
          Had to let you know I’ve just bought the 50mm f1.8. I got a really good deal on ebay.
          I emailed the seller a few times just to make sure I wasn’t buying a dud!!
          Thank you for your help. It arrived today so i’m busy reading up on it – it looks in lovely nick – so far so good!
          Wish me luck!!
          Alison xx

          • catherine
            Author
            16 January 2019 / 8:16 pm

            Alison that’s great news – well done you! You now have to make sure you avoid using the auto setting (otherwise it will have been a wasted purchase!) and use the “A” (aperture priority) setting on your camera. Using a large aperture of f1.8, f2, etc. means you’ll get all that lovely bokeh (blurry backgrounds) AND you’ll get better pictures in lower light. Good luck and let me know how you get on! x

  12. 9 January 2019 / 11:42 am

    So many gorgeous shots, Catherine! I do love the Riley photos. What a special and very handsome guy he is!

    Shelbee

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 11:58 am

      Hehe he’s certainly not shy of the camera, Shelbee!! 😉 Thank you hon x

  13. 9 January 2019 / 9:48 am

    Your photos are always so beautifully clear and well laid out Katherine. I really enjoyed this round up of your looks and photograph styles. Happy New Year lovely xx Maria

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 11:58 am

      Aww thanks Maria – HNY to you too x

  14. 9 January 2019 / 8:40 am

    Your photography! Such beautiful shots – very impressive. You are such a role model – thanks for hosting. And yes, Riley is gorgeous!

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 11:59 am

      Oh that’s really lovely of you, thank you Penny xo

  15. 9 January 2019 / 7:30 am

    So many beautiful photos and outfits! It’s impossible to select a favorite, although the ones with your pup are very cute!

    -Katie

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 11:59 am

      Thanks Katie – I have several faves myself (the Riley ones perhaps being my fave faves, lol) x

  16. 9 January 2019 / 7:29 am

    You are so lucky having a great photographer but the subject material is pretty stunning too dear Catherine.

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 11:59 am

      Oh bless you Anna, thank you!! x

  17. 9 January 2019 / 12:29 am

    Your photos on the blog are always so beautifully composed and you always make the most of the lighting at the time. You are such a talented and creative team. Impossible to pick a favourite but as a dog person the Riley ones speak to me.
    Many thanks for hosting Catherine.

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 12:00 pm

      What lovely compliments – thank you Jill!! x

  18. jodie filogomo
    8 January 2019 / 10:35 pm

    It’s always so educational to hear you talk about the photography and what to look for. I remember when I was first starting out…I didn’t like all the glow and shadows from the sun, but I’ve grown to appreciate the different looks!
    XOOX
    Jodie

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 12:01 pm

      Thanks Jodie – full sun is much easier to work with than no sun as you’ve probably found!

  19. 8 January 2019 / 10:30 pm

    It is quite the task to pick just one of those photos, but if I *have* to, the autumn leaves would be #1, followed by the cocktail ring. Of Riley, the “sheepish” one gets my vote. We are putting our house on the market Feb. 1, I hope we can move along as well as you did.

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 12:01 pm

      Weren’t those leaves amazing, Kim?! And good luck with your house move – we were lucky to get an offer so quickly… it was the rest of the process that was so painful, I hope it isn’t for you!! x

  20. 8 January 2019 / 9:16 pm

    So many great shots, but I think my favorite series were the ones taken indoors at the hotel in London. Lighting like that is like a gift from heaven, and you’re positively glowing!
    Cheryl Shops

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 12:02 pm

      Ugh yes the light that day – and in that room in that hotel – was a godsend. Thank you Cheryl!!

  21. 8 January 2019 / 8:46 pm

    Your photos are always incredible; there are so many good ones here I can’t choose a single favourite. All the Riley ones, chiffon dress, birthday dress, tartan coat, sun setting in your hair, and OF COURSE Secret Cinema would all be at the top of the list. You are a masterclass in blogging lady, honestly. I learn something with every visit.

    (posts comment whilst humming Tina Turner’s ‘Simply the Best… better than all the rest…’

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 12:03 pm

      Well of COURSE you’d say the Riley ones are the best Lisa, I wouldn’t expect anything else!!! 😉 Thank you sweetie xo

  22. 8 January 2019 / 8:30 pm

    Very………well actually I’m drying green here. Great job Keith! And what about that afternoon tea!!! Whaaaa, need that next time I’m in the UK!

    • catherine
      Author
      9 January 2019 / 12:04 pm

      Thank you Nancy – yes the afternoon tea at the Berkley was incredible, you wouldn’t regret going!! They have a glass roof so pictures will always look amazing 😀

  23. 8 January 2019 / 8:29 pm

    No 4 has to be my favourite photo – what a fabulous shot Catherine, you certainly achieved plenty of beautiful shots. Please share the settings you used and preferably with a remote and tripod I’m struggling!! – please. xx Jacqui Mummabstylish

  24. Kareema Hamdy
    8 January 2019 / 8:24 pm

    Love each photo…..I just need your wardrobe!

    • catherine
      Author
      8 January 2019 / 8:27 pm

      Hehe thanks Kareema… as you can probably tell it’s bulging at the seams!!

  25. 8 January 2019 / 8:17 pm

    They are all lovely. The cherry blossoms shot is wonderful. I learn a lot from watching what you do on your blog, Catherine. Thanks for that.
    P.S. Still love the sheepish Riley one the best, though. 🙂

    • catherine
      Author
      8 January 2019 / 8:28 pm

      Thanks Sue – he steals the show every time 😉

  26. 8 January 2019 / 8:06 pm

    Your photography and lighting is always fantastic (and the outfits of course) so it’s good to pick up some tips.

    • catherine
      Author
      8 January 2019 / 8:06 pm

      That’s lovely of you to say, thank you Gail! x

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