Blog,  Chosen by Country Classic Lucinda

Chosen by Country Classic Lucinda – April Edition 🌸

UPDATE: It’s 9.30pm on 30th April. I had all good intentions of this blog going live at 7pm tonight. But here we are adding in an update, about how this hasn’t happened. I’ve honestly had the most disasterous day, managing to completely wipe clean not only my Mac, but also my external hard drive. Safe to say I’ve cried enough tears today to last a lifetime. But ….. as they say … on with the show!
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I love these ‘Chosen by Country Classic Lucinda’ blogs. Being able to write about the things I love is a complete release for me – an escapism from the real world, and a chance for me to share with you my thoughts on some of the things I am buying and loving right now.
I have a Degree and a Masters, so writing and researching the things I love is natural to me, and is mainly where my love of blogging begun. Blogging has almost been a life saver for me too, It helped me through some pretty tricky times, and I think that stands for this week too!

This blog covers some of my ‘top picks’ for this month. For many of us it is pay day, which for me often marks treating myself to something. This is a very strange and surreal time though, and this week I have had a further reality check of this.
Only spend how and where you can, consider investment pieces and items that you can utilise during lockdown as well as after. I know I have had to reconsider spending now too, so I have chosen a selection of products across a broad price range – something to suit everyone!
I hope you enjoy reading about these items as much as I have loved writing about them …

Liquiproof Eco-Cleaner

Overview
I am a big fan of Liquiproof products, having all used their suede protector on my boots and bags, including my whole Fairfax & Favor collection. I have done a previous blog about the protector, which can be found here. It can be daunting doing anything with a suede collection, whether it is F&F or not. I am always worried about putting something on them, and because of this, I have never gone about cleaning my collection.
Over the Easter weekend, I decided that I was going to try and clean my whole collection. I’ve had some of my suede boots, for a very long time, years and years, and to be honest, I am not precious about wearing them. I will wear them out in the rain, racing, in the mud. It pains me a little, but they were bought to be used, and in my house, they have to live up to the reality of country life! Due to this, they have got slightly marked and scuffed – I am by no means implying I am wreckless with them, they are still my babies, but they do face the inevitable after wearing them day in, day out.
I spray anything suede as soon as I get it, to protect them against the elements, this works really well and has prevented my whole collection from any rain damage, or spillages! But they were all definitely due a bit of a spruce. Having used the Liquiproof protector, their cleaner was the only thing I was going to trust. This is available in a few different sizes,
I wasn’t sure how much I would use, so I went for the 125ml size. It arrived really quickly, and was so easy to use. You simply mix a few drops with water, apply and then repeat if required. I was a bit confused about the few drops, because the bottle is just a normal push top, so I wasn’t really sure how much was coming out, and how much water was required, but I just guessed and it seemed to be ok. I think I cleaned 2 pairs of over the knee boots, 2 pairs of knee high boots, 2 pairs of ankle boots, 2 pairs of loafers and a pair of deck shoes, and I still have loads left.
I cleaned everything from Tan suede to Navy suede. I was definitely more nervous about the Tan, but these were also the ones that needed more of a clean. They came up perfectly.
The cleaner is suitable for different leathers and fabrics, so you would be able to use this across a wide range of products.
I would rate this product 10/10 – I can’t fault it, and I trusted it with my very expensive collection – and it just didn’t disappoint!
Best part?
The satisfaction of clean boots! Knowing that I’ve looked after them with a great product. I am always apprehensive of doing anything with my F&F collection, after all – they are expensive! But, I trust Liquiproof products, and once again I’ve been left very happy!
How much is this item?
Starting from £7.00, depending on the size you go for.
Where can I buy this?
Find me here!

Fairfax & Favor Raspberry Sennowe Belt

Overview
Ok, so we all know by now how much I love this brand. I have loved F&F for years and years! Is there ever a blog when they aren’t mentioned? If you follow my instagram (@countryclassiclucinda) you would have seen recently that I posted a picture of my first ever navy Regina’s. I remember the build up to the launch of the boot, and frantically messaging the customer services team about the release date, I got them the moment they debuted online – and I’ve never looked back!
I recently posted a blog on my reaction to the brand new Spring/Summer F&F collection (you can read that here) and you’ll have probably gathered from that, that I was just a little bit excited about the new products on offer, and the new colour-ways available, one of which being Raspberry!
I am definitely a bit of a ‘girly girl’ and this colour is so perfectly satisfying my need for pink! This shade just screams Spring/Summer sunshine and having gone for the new Monaco Wedges in Raspberry, I knew the belt was essential to finalising those perfect outfit ideas!
Matching your accessories to your footwear colour is the perfect way to complete an outfit, tie everything together, and create a really polished look. It’s the little things, but I love that F&F offer belts in their variety of suede colours.
The Sennowe Belts are so beautiful, I think my collection is currently sitting at four – so it is safe to say I am a fan of them! These are a slightly skinnier belt design (a 2cm width), and their dainty nature makes them not only perfect for everyday use with jeans, but also dressing up a skirt or dress, or adding as a waist belt. Currently available in 7 colours, with the signature gold shield featuring as the buckle. There is also the studded logo featuring on the belt loop.
There are 3 different sizes available, Small, Medium and Large. I go for Small as a reference, and I am generally a size 8. I like the belt to be able to go round my waist as well, so I opted for the smaller size. I do have a couple in the old S/M sizing, which I think would be more reflective of the new M size, and I find these don’t have enough holes for me to wear around my waist. There is a size guide online to utilise.
If you’re thinking about adding to your collection – my top tip is picking the colour that matches your favourite pair of boots, and you won’t be disappointed. The belts are eligible for the free next day delivery too!
Best part?
I love that Fairfax & Favor have launched a whole range of items in Raspberry. This means you can match your brand new footwear with bags and accessories for that completely polished look! If Raspberry isn’t your colour, this also applies for their other suede colourways!
How much is this item?
£60.00
Where can I buy this?
Find me here!

Penelope Henderson Bee Earrings

Overview
If you aren’t familiar with Penelope Henderson already, this is a hairband and accessories brand, featuring some irresistible products to perfectly finish off your outfit. If there is one thing that frustrates me day in, day out, it’s my hair. It is so fine, and although it is dead straight naturally, throughout the day it just ends up looking a complete mess if I don’t do anything with it. Hairbands have become my saving grace for this. I have always loved hairbands though – throw it back to Primary School Lucinda and I wasn’t without one then either. I remember getting a love letter whilst at primary school from a boy in my class and even that featured his admiration for my hairbands. I am also a huge lover of Gossip Girl, and live my Blair Waldorf fantasy through my extensive hairband collection. I have so many from Penelope Henderson now – and this is definitely my go to brand, there is so much choice, and Camilla is always on hand to help if there is something specific that you need.
But…. on from hairbands and onto the accessories range! I am typically your classic pearl stud kind of girl for everyday use, But every now and then a new pair of earrings catch my eye, and like a magpie I just can’t resist.
Wow, I fell in love with these earrings from the moment that I saw them. There is something so unique about these little half hoops (is that the correct term?!). They are a gold half hoop with a marbled blue ball, featuring a 3D gold bee. I have been living in these since I got them. I wasn’t 100% sure how much I would style them, with them being so different to my normal style, but they go with everything and they make me feel fabulous – and isn’t that what good jewellery is all about. Despite my usual classic earring, I really like wearing something of a statement, and I am not afraid of trying something new, bolder or out of my comfort zone. Some of my more statement pieces are the favourites in my collection, and will always reach for them if I want to dress up. These really are the cutest little earrings, they are just enough, without being too much. Penelope Henderson also has a wide range of earrings available for browsing, so if this design isn’t quite to your taste, but you are looking for something a bit more unique – they will definitely have something for you!
Best part?
Just how affordable these gorgeous earrings are. A real payday treat, without having to excessively splash out!
How much is this item?
Currently £12.00 in the sale!
Where can I buy this?
Find me here!

Grays 1922 Country Scarves

Overview
So you will probably know that I am a bit of a fan of this brand. They have the most beautiful belts and bags – and now a new collection of scarves too! There are a variety of different country themes and colours available.
Scarves are a perfect addition to your wardrobe at this time of year, particularly as the weather is so changeable. These scarves are a chiffon material, so they are lightweight enough to feel like you have something extra on, without any bulk. Depending on how you tie these, you will be able to feature either just as an accessory to finalise your outfit, or as a bit of extra added warmth.
I went for the pheasant design on its deep green background, and the grey racing print. The designs are beautiful, and depending on how you wear, enables you to choose how much or little of the pattern you see.
I have already been pairing the green pheasant scarf with my brown prince of wales tweed skirt, and I love this look – I can’t for us to be able to go out and I can play with so many more different outfit options. These are also great for throwing on with your lockdown loungewear to keep satisfying your country outfit feel!
Best part?
These scarves are super affordable, and will be the perfect addition to finish off your favourite Spring country outfit.
How much is this item?
£15.00 each
Where can I buy this?
Find me here!

Disney Plus

Overview
I am Disney obsessed. If you know me, you’ll know Disneyland is my favourite place on earth (well, maybe in line with Nashville – have I mentioned I went there?!). Whilst I was growing up, we went to Disneyland every year – why does that stop by the way, just because you grow up? I have also been as frequently as I can since, I, of course, went for my 21st birthday celebrations, and I also went for my birthday last year (although those memories are some I am keen to overwrite as soon as possible). I am trying to persuade my family to go again next year – it really is the most magical place in the world, and I have some of my most treasured, favourite and fond memories there.
So, weren’t we lucky when Disney Plus announced its launch – particularly as we were yet to find out we would have enough time to binge watch it excessively.
I am loving The Imagineering series. This takes a behind the scenes look at what it takes to build the 12 Disney parks all around the world. It is completely fascinating and if you love Disney, you will find this so interesting!
I have ALWAYS said, I want to get engaged at Disneyland – future husband if you’re reading this – you’ve had your heads up. With this being said, one of the first things I binge watched on there was Disney fairytale weddings. I sob, and sob….AND SOB! It is so beautiful. Can you imagine getting married at one of the Disney parks – my family better look out because I have it all planned out now having watched the full series available!
There are lots of disney and nature documentaries on here as well as all of the classic Disney movies, series and remakes. It is the best money I could have spent – and during lockdown – what a saviour! I’d love to know what you’re watching on there – and if you’ve got any suggestions for what I should watch next. You can stream up to 4 screens at the same time – keeping everyone in the house happy.
P.S… are you a lover of the remakes? With a few, I actually prefer them to the original (dare I say that?!).
Best part?
The chance to really make the most of watching this during lockdown! I don’t watch all that much TV normally, and I bet many of you are the same. But lockdown has welcomed some guilt free binge-watching!
How much is this item?
From £5.99 a month, or £59.99 for the first year.
There is also a 7 day free trial available!
Where can I buy this?
Buy me here!

Mackenzie and George Drayton Belt

Overview
Have we gathered yet that I have a bit of a problem with belts? By problem, I mean a full blown obsession. There is rarely ever an outfit that I won’t pair a belt with. These are the perfect accessory, and allow you to be as subtle or statement as you like. I love
I have been buying belts from Mackenzie and George for so many years now, and I can completely vouch for their incredible quality and design. There is absolutely no point in buying really cheap if you want a belt to last, and with the ever growing impact of fast fashion, investment pieces are definitely the way to go if you want to do your bit, and invest wisely.
This belt has always caught my eye, I absolutely love the two panels of real Guinea Fowl and Pheasant feathers. This is completely unique and for me, adds a real statement and talking point. I love this country twist within the belt, and it is the perfect way to compliment your favourite country outfits, so whether you’re out in the field, or popping to town – this belt is going to look fab.
The feathers are protected, so you don’t need to worry about them, and the belt is made from Aniline leather. I’m not sure how familiar you are with leather types (due to my job – it’s safe to say I know a little bit! – no pun intended!). Aniline leather is classed as high-grade, because it doesn’t have a build up of pigmented colour, which you will find on lots of other leathers, which makes for a very soft and natural leather look. Due to such appearance, Aniline leather is highly sought after, and a popular option, due to the natural leather characteristics.
You are able to personalise your M&G belts with embossing- which is such a great way to create a personal touch – or makes for the perfect gift! M&G size guide works on a number scale 1 through to 7, and a break down of what this sizing is can be found in their handy guide on their website (or here). I generally take into account with most of my belts that I like to wear them around my waist as well, so if you are the same, don’t forget to bear that in mind when looking at the sizing guide.
Best part?
Adding a true country twist to your wardrobe and outfit! The feather panels on this belt, for me, make this completely stand out and I haven’t seen anything else like it. A winner in my eyes!
How much is this item?
£89.00
Where can I buy this?
Buy me here!

It’s been a difficult week for me, and I really didn’t want to start the blog negatively. But, I was really struggling to finish this blog up on time, and that was before all of the issues with my Mac and hard drive! I feel like I am being so hard on myself at the moment, and I am beating myself up about a lot surrounding my content and what I am doing and how I am doing it. I’ve found myself in tears worrying things aren’t good enough, despite a lot of people taking inspiration from everything I’m doing for their own things. I have always struggled with being a bit of a perfectionist, but the problem is I then can’t live up to the expectations I have of myself. It’s hard because I put so much time and energy into things that I do encourage myself to put it out there, but I still remain disappointed in some of my finished results, for me, nothing is ever ‘finished’.
I had been a bit quieter on social media the last couple of days, coming to terms with the changes I am now facing in the upcoming weeks. So I’ve had a bit of a struggle the last few days! This lockdown is a very odd time. I’ll see you very soon though.

Lots of love, Lucinda xo

‘Not all treasure is silver and gold’

Pirates of the Caribbean

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{please note that the earrings and belt featured were gifted as part of a previous collaboration. All thoughts are my own. There are no affiliate links}