Anna Cascarina

*Warning, the squares above contain serious lust worthy items!* Yes, these are just some of the items that i've been coveting this season. And no, my bank balance isn't playing ball! I absolutely love discovering new brands, but woah does it hit hard when the cash machine says no! From the @wiggykit boilersuit that I fell in love with at the @goodleybullenpr press day to the @dodobaror lilac blouse and skirt that is haunting my dreams, it's a real life struggle! Anybody else? . . . #bankbalancesaysno #midsizestyle #styleforall #annacascarina #askanna #expensivetaste #beautifulbrands #styleover40 #40plusstyle #fashionist #instazine #howtostyle #stylediaries #ukbloggerstyle #bohemianlook #classicstyle #buylessbuybetter #sustainablefashion #coveting https://www.instagram.com/p/BxsetyHBNbL/?igshid=37xdc1j46ksn

This 100% silk shirt was £2 off @ebay_uk. Yes £2 - bargain I hear you cry. There's always loads of great silk shirts on there. Make sure you go for plain styles, small collars to make it look modern and a slightly oversized shape. This one is actually a men's shirt and because it's so lightweight, it's great to tuck into jeans or trousers. I've teamed it with this amazing bumbag from @apc_paris. I've lusted after it for so long and eventually got my hands on one from you guessed it eBay. For a bargainous price too I might add! Vintage shirt: @ebay_uk @apc_paris bumbag: @ebay_uk Jeans: @hm (old) Glasses: @quayaustralia . . . #ebayfashion #ebayhustle #vintageoutfit #vintageshirt #silkshirt #hmxme #bumbag #apc #lucillebag #askanna #annacascarina #40plusstyle #styleover40 #summervibes #sunglasseslover #vintagestyle #secondhandclothes #crossbodybag #waistbag #apcparis #sunshineyday #wheresthesungone #ilovevintage #mystyle #styleforall https://www.instagram.com/p/Bxkxdg0hDJ2/?igshid=4tyh63ag6y66

I'm going on holiday. Yippeeeeee! Well not until July, but I tell you, i'm clawing my way to that date with every fibre of my being. I have been watching everyones holiday stories and looking at their pics and I have to admit, it's killing me! I just want to be somewhere else, anywhere but here where deadlines are punching me in the face, my computer is taunting me and the list of 'to do' things are multiplying by the minute! So, in a bid to get me thinking about happier times, i've done a holiday dress edit with ideas of how to style each one. Each one can be styled in so many different ways. Which one is your fave? . . . #holidaydress #summerdress #askanna #annacascarina #sezane #sundress #beachcafe #hellosunshine #40plusstyle #styleover40 #beachwear2019 #sunsout #summertimevibes #holidaylook #endlesssummer https://www.instagram.com/p/Bxfl6CaBH8o/?igshid=1kbn80c5mdg3q

Hello sunshine my old friend... That little round glowing thing in the sky is back and it has lifted my spirits. Plus a delivery from H&M came with this glorious dress in it and it is every bit as lush as i'd hoped. A Simple a-line cotton maxi dress with a low back and halterneck, it's a total dream. I'm going to style it with trainers, heeled sandals and chunky sandals and wear it just as it is on holiday but will add a contrasting vest or tee for round town. I've layered gold chains and have added my stunning chunky gold bracelet from @loelandco. Simple, understated and timeless. My three favourite words! Dress: @hm Sandals: @cosstores Bracelet: @loelandco (gift) Necklaces: @_anni_lu_ (gift) @missomalondon . . . #halterneckdress #hmxme #maxidress #blackdress #backlessdress #cottondress #chunkysandals #dadsandals #velcrosandals #chainbracelet #chunkybracelet #40plusstyle #styleover40 #midsize #styleforeverybody #bodyconfience #styleinspo #hellosunshine https://www.instagram.com/p/BxacfIRBQYA/?igshid=18ppag1zr1m6e

I'd need a slightly bigger wardrobe if this quote were true! But sometimes I do wish that I could just start again when it comes to my wardrobe. Do you? I have some wonderful pieces but tastes change, body shapes change, the way you want your wardrobe to work, changes! Longevity is key, sustainability is key. So the way we throw out our old stuff needs to change. We need to invest in pieces that will last and that we really love. And that doesn't have to mean spending a fortune. I only mean trying to make better choices when it comes to what we spend our hard earned cash on - whether that's from a little independent or a big high street store. One of my favourite dresses was actually under £30 but it's timeless and a great fit, so I go back to it again and again. The way I work my wardrobe is by investing in new pieces that will last. Buy vintage or secondhand when it comes to trends and re-selling items that I no longer wear. How does your wardrobe work for you? . . . #longevity #systainablefashion #sustainability #40plusstyle #styleover40 #fastfashion #workingwardrobe #fashionblogger #fblogger #wardrobeoverhaul #wardrobestylist #styleinspo https://www.instagram.com/p/BxSvqI1hITn/?igshid=7c50gkwr436k

If you've seen my stories you'll know i'm currently unable to stand up straight and in agony with lower back pain. Thank you to all the wonderful people who have sent advice, well wishes and drug recommendations! I love you all. I suppose if there is a time to have back pain, then it’s when it's pissing down with rain all day. At least i'm not missing out on beautiful sunshine and the chance to wear this stunning dress, which BTW I managed to take a picture of yesterday when it was relatively warm and less soggy! This dress is sold out but the tall version is still available. I’ll link on stories. Now I’m back to popping all the pills and feeling very sorry for myself. Remind me to work on my core when I’m better 🙄 Maxi dress: @asos Pearl headband: @wildswansfashion Sandals: @teva at @tkmaxxuk . . . #maxidress #askanna #anacascarina #over40style #styleoverforty #styleover40 #40plusstyle #tiereddress #balloonsleeves #styleforeveryone #styleinspo #fblogger #fashionblogger #instazine #pearlhairband #coreworkouts #pearlheadbabd #headbandoftheday #summerdresses #offtheshoulderdress https://www.instagram.com/p/BxNkxfullWy/?igshid=1jsihkoxiecq4

Probably the most common question I get asked is, could you do a few more purse friendly options? I honestly try to include as many options as possible when I am compiling my posts so that every budget is catered for. But I want to be honest, it's difficult. I have a constant inner monologue talking to me about sustainability, ethical production and the need to buy less and better. But, I also realise that this is impossible to many people when money is tight and there are so many outgoings - me included. So I have compiled 8 outfits all consisting of items under £40 (half of them are under £20). I have tried to include brands that have good sustainability policies and brands that are trying to do better. I'd love to hear your views on this. . . . #pursefriendly #budgetoutfits #40plusstyle #styleover40 #onabudget #fashiononabudget #askanna #annacascarina #dressingonabudget #fashionforless https://www.instagram.com/p/BxIZ8LMFfgp/?igshid=1oolf9j56np5r

One dress, three ways. Swipe left for more options. Never in a million years would I have thought that at 45 I'd be wearing a green and white gingham towelling dress. But here I am! It's a great length, has lovely thick straps and two ties at the back meaning it's great for small and big busted ladies. The retro chick inside me loves a bit of towelling and the frill hem balances out bigger hips, perfect for me! At first glance I thought it would only be good for holiday, but throw on a blazer and a belt or wear a simple tee underneath and suddenly the dress is a lot more wearable. Last time I looked this dress was still available in sizes 14, 16 and 18. I'm wearing a size 14. Go go go! Dress: @warehouseuk Espadrilles: @warehouseuk Tee: Vintage High tops: @converse Blazer: Sofie Shnoor @asos (old) Sandals: @cosstores Belt: Vintage . . . #ginghamdress #wareshrimps #tieback #summerdress #midsize #midage #styleover40 #40plusstyle #itaintover #greendress #warehousewornwell #espadrilles #shrimps @shrimps #summervibes #waitingforthesun #askanna #annacascarina https://www.instagram.com/p/BxB3oSGF6zA/?igshid=wxtx438s0k1j

How do you feel about swimwear? Do you dread the summer months because you don't want to get your body out or do you relish in the sunshine and look forward to exposing your skin to a bit of vitamin D? I'm a bit of both to be honest. I'd like to tone up and get rid of some of my wobbly bits, but equally I can't wait to get a little more bronzed and lie under a sun umbrella with a good book! One things for sure, I will be investing in a couple of good swimsuits that are cut well and look bloody awesome. I have put together some swimwear options together with some tips on what to wear for different body shapes. But please remember, your body is beautiful regardless of size or shape, it is worthy of kindness and respect and you can wear whatever you like on that beach, just make sure you stand tall and run into the sea with glee! Enjoy! . . . #midsize #swimwear #swimwearph #bodyshapes #swimwearforall #styleover40 #40plusstyle #styleinspo #fblogger #askanna #annacascarina #beachwear #swimwear2019 #holidaywardrobe #bikiniseason #swimwearseason https://www.instagram.com/p/Bw7j7uQlg5O/?igshid=as9z7enb426d

I'm in love with these shorts. The perfect length and just the right amount of looseness (is that even a word? 🤣) and best of all you can sit down cross legged without showing your knickers! Wear them with heels and a tee, mules and a loose shirt or like I have with a black blazer and chunky sandals. Also great for the office too. I'm wearing the XL. BTW apologies for the plaster. I ripped my nail off picking up a melon. Don’t ask 🙈 Shorts: @zara Blazer: @sofieschnoor_official @asos Satin tee: Vintage Sandals: @cosstores Necklaces: @missomalondon and @rjacksonlondon . . . #bermudashorts #shortsandblazer #chunkysandals #cossandals #velcrosandals #askanna #annacascarina #styleover40 #40plusstyle #clothesforeveryone #vintagetee #chanelsandals #missomalondon #blazerstyle #fblogger #styleblogger #instazine https://www.instagram.com/p/Bw2aaS3FJUk/?igshid=l50cdcd6d7wp

My eyes were well and truly opened wide yesterday when I went to the @peopletreeuk brunch. Yes we talk about sustainability, the planet, what we can do etc. But are we actually doing enough? Or anything at all. I brought up the question of expense to the ladies round the table and yes, sustainability does mean more expensive. It's a fact. And it's difficult because when you hear about all the processes that go into making these products, then it's obvious sustainable clothing isn't going to be cheap. So the question is, how can we afford to be sustainable? I suppose it means buying less, buying better, re-using, recycling, buying vintage, buying items that are going to last beyond the current season. Not buying into high fashion trends that we throw away in a few months time. In the long run we'll probably spend the same anyway (if not less). I do get it, when budgets are tight, it's hard to think this way. But when you listen to the incredible 16 year old climate activist, Greta Thunberg, if we don't act now is it going to be too late? But in the words of Fashion Revolution founder, Orsola de Castro - ' The truth is that nobody expected such a simple question to be so hard to answer' What are your thoughts? . . . #sustainability #sustainableclothing #sustainableactivist #sustainablefashion #sustainabilityinstyle #ethicalfashion #askanna #annacascarina #whomadeyourclothes #fashionrevolutionweek #whomademyclothes #buylessbuybetter #capsulewardrobe #sustainablebrand #peopletree https://www.instagram.com/p/BwumICDFidd/?igshid=63yybwco6aze

Happy Wednesday everyone. I thought for this dreary old hump day I'd do a 10 things about me post. You ready? 1. I have 2 children, 14 and 12 year old girls. 👩👧 2. I have a form of epilepsy called Petit Mal 🤕 3. I don't drink (my liver is pure!!!) 🍸 4. I went to the London College of Fashion for 6 years - I was part of the furniture in the end!!!🎓 5. I taught fashion styling at different colleges for many years. 🤓 6. I use to run a baby food business called DinDins where I cooked nutritious organic food and delivered it locally 🥗 7. I love markets - second hand, bric-a-brac, car boots, French Flea markets. 8. I have a mini bus licence. Road trip anyone? 😂 9. I love singing. I should have been on the stage 😂 10. I am a trained forest school practitioner! If anyone wants a fire built or to do some whittling, I'm your woman 🌳🔥 I am wearing a dreamy t-shirt by @wild_hearts_wonder (gift), my new favourite jeans from @laboo.london (gift) and strappy sandals from @zara . I'll link on stories. Can you tell me an interesting fact about you in the comments below? . . . #wilsheartswonder #blackjeabs #skinnyjeans #highwaistedjeans #jeansandtshirt #askanna #jeanstyle #midsizejeans #midsize #annacascarina #strappysandals #blackpanther #styleover40 #40plusstyle #styleblogger #midsizeblogger #10thingsaboutme https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwpg5jNl43Z/?igshid=12snr32zt2i2v

Did you have a good Easter? Did you eat your weight in chocolate like me? Who cares though, if there's ever a time to do it, then it's this time of year and i've enjoyed every bite (of the kids eggs!) And it was so bloody hot! I’ve actually become very intolerant to the heat and need either an extra large sun parasol to sit under or I'll disappear inside where it’s cool! It's just too hot for me! But that doesn't mean I don't get excited by all the beautiful summer collections, and now that it's warm enough we can finally enjoy them! I'm loving all the sandals and hats that are around at the moment so I've put together 9 looks of a dress, a hat and a pair of sandals that would all look gorgeous this summer. Which one is your favourite? All looks are on my @liketoknow.it page which is linked on my profile and i'll also link on stories. . . . #summerdresses #ss19 #summerhats #instazine #mididresses #askanna #annacascarina #warmweatherstyle #sunsout #summerdressing #40plusstyle #styleover40 #summercollections #toohotforme #burnbabyburn #summerstyle https://www.instagram.com/p/BwkWu2CFsQv/?igshid=vn1dmfbeoy3q

Who else loves the warm weather but at the same time hates the fact that that also means showing legs and arms? 🙈 I’m all about positivity but I suffer from psoriosis on my body, in particular my arms, so am extremely conscious of wearing short sleeves. That’s why this Free People dress is one of my favourites as the sleeves and hem are a great length and just gives me that extra bit of coverage. It is aptly named 'Love of My Life' and comes in 8 different colours. It has a low (and I mean extremely low) neck which on holiday is fine, but any other time needs to be worn with a camisole/ vest or add a bit of tit tape otherwise you'll be flashing everyone you meet, so be warned! The one thing I wish it did have is pockets, but you can't have everything I suppose. I've linked the dress on stories. I’m wearing a Large. Dress: @freepeopleuk Bag: @clarehynesdesigns (gift) Gold sandals: old @newlook . . . #Loveofmylife #psoriasissucks #freepeopledress #freepeople #fashionstylist #askanna #annacascarina #40plusstyle #styleover40 #warmweatherstyle #psoriasiswarrior #bodypositivitymovement #fblogger #freepeopleme #isitjustme https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwd3UFNF9_c/?igshid=rnqndq9jwhpk

I love an oversized fit. There's something about the fluidity, the movement. It makes an item look instantly more expensive. But it has to be done right. You can't just put any old thing on two sizes too big. It has to be considered. This is exactly what Donna tells us in her guest post tonight. Donna is an amazing personal stylist and wears the oversized trend perfectly. She gives us some tips on how to achieve this look effortlessly so that you can shop the trend with confidence. Do you love an oversized fit? . . . . #oversized #40plusstyle #instazine #styleinspo #styleover40 #styletips #askanna #annacascarina #guestpost #gobig #oversizefashion #fashionblogger #personalstylist #fashionstylist https://www.instagram.com/p/BwXfPSUFyg_/?igshid=d9gudynhkyqu

H&M have got some real beauties in at the moment and this blazer and knitted skirt are just two items that I have snapped up recently. The skirt is lined so is perfect for spring, but it's still a bit nippy out there, so I have worn it with socks and Dr Martens which also toughens it up a bit. The blazer is a linen mix in a beautiful camel colour and I also bought the matching trousers so could be worn together or as separates. Both items were under £50 each proving that classic and understated doesn't have to be expensive. I'll link all items on stories Blazer: @hm Skirt: @hm secondhand DM's: @manifestowoman . . . #understatedstyle #linenblazer #askanna #instazine #styleideas #knittedskirt #whitepleatedskirt #whiteknit #drmartens #shoesandsocks #annacascarina #40plusstyle #styleover40 #fblogger #styleinspo #capsulewardrobe https://www.instagram.com/p/BwSWSBBlD1t/?igshid=s1nl1xebrc6h

What do you think about this quote? Yes, the dress might be beautiful. It might be the perfect colour, be made from the finest silk, be the perfect length. But no one wants the dress to take over do they? We want it to enhance us, to flatter us, to give us a boost of confidence. But if it's all about the dress, then where have WE gone? I hope to encourage people to dress for them. To wear items that suit the individual, clothes they love. Not buy endless amounts of items that have been seen on every influencer on Instagram. I believe in individuality. Nobody wants to be a clone of someone else. Do you agree? . . . #verawang #fashionquote #fashionclones #individuality #fashionstyle #ownyourstyle #fashionover40 #styleover40 #40plusstyle #askanna #annacascarina #styleinspo #instazine #stylehasnosize #styleideas https://www.instagram.com/p/BwKliVuFPmq/?igshid=a751835tf6r5