Mid January musings
New Year, new me
It’s been a hot minute, or five months… I was really enjoying Substack last year but in June I was incredibly lucky to find out that I was pregnant and what followed were weeks of nausea that had me wiped out from 5pm onwards each day. So, amid one of the busiest summers at work, morning sickness, and being ridiculously tired as my body adjusted to a twin (!) pregnancy, my hobbies became a distant memory.
There’s one thing I kept saying throughout: I slowly lost my sense of style. I felt so bloody fortunate to be pregnant, but the anxiety of producing healthy babies, as well as an ever changing body, really does do a number on you. While we’re on the subject - maternity clothes. I found the options were massively limited, high-street and affordable options even more so. Those that do offer Mama ranges — see H&M and M&S — don’t even have them in store; you can only buy online, which enraged me. How am I meant to know my new size?!
I was never high maintenance with my hair, make-up or outfits anyway so this isn’t reinventing the wheel. My 3 words won’t be changing (Allison Bornstein’s style method, who suggests choosing a practical, emotional and aspirational word to define your style). My words are undone, styled, effortless.
The following shares are for anyone looking for slow starts in the coldest months of the year, for whatever reason.
All-weather rubber boots - these Tretorn boots from Toast are a steal at £100. Reviews on these say they’re comfy, perfect for long dog walks and bridge the gap between Blundstone boots, that aren’t 100% waterproof and clunky wellies, that don’t offer any foot support.
I’ve bought these 2-pack of henley jumpers from Next and excited for them to arrive. At £30, I hope the quality is good as they’re exactly what I want to be wearing.
A great oversized long sleeve top! It’s soft, cosy and looks good with both sweats and jeans. This one is Topshop via ASOS.
I’m on my second pair of these Yoko Wool slippers, they keep my feet toasty all winter long and don’t fall off easily.
Loungewear is naturally a big part of my wardrobe this winter, and I love these barrel-leg joggers from M&S to feel a bit put together.
Anna Eleri Hart gave me this Ember mug for Christmas, and I’m a convert. Hot tea, all the time.
I recently got the Max shirt from Sezane in this tartan. It’s so cosy, and it has poppers!
Yes the Barbour Maude jacket is not cheap, but waterproof jackets (not shower proof) should be invested in.
How nice is this jumper?! From H&M and only £37.99. The pop of red in an outfit is not going anywhere either.
When I remember to do a beauty routine, this will always feature. It’s the best product I’ve ever tried at keeping my face hydrated in the cold season.
So in some ways, it is New Year, new me, but not because of any resolutions - I’m a new mum in a new year. I’m looking forward to discovering a new sense of self in this changed body, and to having Substack as my outlet and a reason to look for exciting things during maternity leave — whether that’s products, recipes, wellness routines, etc. I might not be able to try it all myself, but I can enjoy spending the time researching and spreading the joy for others to discover.
Happy New Year everyone! Here’s to a happy and healthy 2026.
—Rhi