Content creator Caroline Cook – known as @carolinesstylehacks – on vintage finds, hero blazers and a love of reading

I get up early – at around 6am – with my Golden Retriever, Buddy. I have my electrolytes in water every morning before anything else. Then breakfast is overnight oats and Greek yoghurt. I never skip it. I post most mornings on Instagram, so I need to be up early to respond to messages and engage on the app before I post any content.

I’ll exercise most mornings – either a gym session or a class. And I walk most days too. After having my children, exercise is hugely important to me and I prioritise it daily. It’s great for me mentally and physically. 

When it comes to planning outfits, I usually have a rough idea the night before and a few options in my head – but I definitely need to see what feels best on the day. It depends on my mood, but comfort is always key. 

I like to eat as well as I can, and in recent years I’ve increased the amount of protein and fibre in my diet. I also take supplements to help with perimenopause symptoms. 

At the moment, my vintage pillbox hats I found on Vinted are really adding fun and interest to so many of my outfits. I’ve always been a pre-loved devotee and these are my standout finds this winter. My new Rixo Milly leopard coat is also making me happy. It’s perfect dressed up or down and I’m reaching for it so often.  

I wear blazers all year round. Usually a relaxed fit navy one… I have a large collection and they all get used on rotation. I think they finish off any look, and are so easy to throw on. I also like to wear a statement necklace. The last few years it’s been bold beaded ones from Sezane, Bonnie Studios and vintage finds. I love how they finish off my outfits without being too fussy.

Recently I tried Jamie Haller jeans and I love them. They’re just the right relaxed fit with the perfect puddle hem. I always try to promote Indie brands and love so many. I’d say a standout piece this season has been my Mà + Lin linen and wool blazer. I was blown away by the stunning, boxy slightly shorter fit and the textile mix is just right. It’s been great seeing this small brand grow over the last few years.

I’ve recently been working with Corum Property around a Christmas at home campaign. My interiors account has been growing this year and it’s been great to work on some exciting interior campaigns, as I think my home is a huge extension of my personal style. 

I need to get better at planning time out from my work day. Because most of my work is on social media, I feel I rarely switch off. Any tips welcome!

I do try to plan my next day’s post on Instagram during the day, but some nights I’m up late prepping, as I find posting needs to be adaptive. But on a good night, I will walk Buddy after dinner, watch a little TV with my family or listen to a podcast.  

I head to bed by 10pm at the latest, and look forward to reading every night. It’s the only way I can relax and get to sleep. I love reading everything from biographies to crime and comedies. At the moment, I’m reading Alice by Hugo Vickers and The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida by Shehan Karunatilaka.

My ideal evening out would be staying the night in Edinburgh at my favourite hotel, Kimpton Charlotte Square – then getting dressed up for a pre-dinner cocktail at a cosy local bar, followed by dinner with a nice glass of wine. Simple, cosy and not too late.