It's not often that my mum and I get the chance to spend a sunny Friday together. No, not just because we live in Manchester (the sun shines here occasionally, I promise!), but because we're both very busy ladies #girlboss. So when the opportunity came to have a little day trip to Aintree, near Liverpool, I jumped at the chance to celebrate Mother's Day a little early with my favourite person.
The Aintree Shopping Park is just 40 minutes down the M57 from Manchester, so not far at all - it's situated just near the famous race course and just 20 minutes from Liverpool, one of my favourite cities! With free parking, fab brands and great places to eat, we were both excited to get there!
We've just had an offer accepted on our first house, so although I couldn't resist a little clothes shopping, I was glad to see a ginormous Next Home, DFS, Harveys - SCS I was definitely spoilt for choice! So, first off it was Next! The store was modern, airy and so big, you could get lost in it. I found some very appropriate home decor (how cute is this Aloe cushion!) and my mum ended up going home with cushions, a lamp shade and a new shirt!
Obviously, I had to have a look in the fashion department. I immediately spotted this floral kimono, a must have piece for SS18. Kimonos have been adored by the fashionistas for a few seasons now; but finally they have trickled down to the high street, making them affordable for everyone! This one from Next is the perfect length, and looks great over a polo neck for the colder months (AKA British weather).
I can't get enough of knitwear, and stripes were everywhere at last week's London Fashion Week. The best thing about this sweater is the cut. It's baggy and oversized, so perfect for tucking into high wait mom jeans to look effortlessly stylish. I took this one home with me and have worn it twice already (so comfy!).
Then we were off to M&S, but first coffee! We popped upstairs to the light and airy cafe, which was busy, but we found a great stop by the window. They have great gluten free options for me and mum had the most delicious looking scone and hot chocolate! We were just on our way out, I spotted the most incredible camel trench - I really don't need another coat, but I gave in and treated myself. Trench coats have been a big thing for a few years now, but they're only getting bigger. They are a classic and timeless piece that is a great addition to your staple wardrobe.
We then headed back to Next as we had spotted one of our favourite shops nestled on the second floor - Paperchase! We have a large store in the city centre, but I don't get in much these days, so to have a little Paperchase concession was an extra treat. Not going to lie, we spent A LOT in there. From cute little note books to even more homeware, there is definitely something for all tastes!
Finally, we had to finish the day with a cheeky Nando's! By this time we had been at the shopping centre for over 3 hours - the time just flew by (forgot to add our little detour to the Pets At Home Store to buy George and Ruby a little treat!) and we were starving! We had the choice of Frankie and Benny's, Mc Donald's (so temped by the Grand Big Mac!) and a cute little Costa Coffee, also in the Next home store. We needed a Peri Peri fix and we weren't disappointed. The shopping park now has free wifi, so I found it really useful to update my social media during lunch.
We had a fantastic day at the Aintree Shopping Park. Not just the usual stores, but with added gems like Paperchase, it really stands out from the crowd. It's a great place to visit if you want fashion, homeware and food and we'll definitely be back soon!
via : http://www.fashionpanic.co.uk
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