It’s another new year! Another new start and another new promise to myself to keep my blog alive.
It’s 2022 and I have not posted anything since 2020! I should take my own advice, and stick to a goal, get over my fears of imperfection and just post.
Perhaps at this point I should just delete this website completely, but there is a reason I’ve kept on paying the domain fee and hosting subscription and may be that means I’m just not ready to let it go… at least not without a fight or some ceremonial digital funeral.
With the increase in popularity of video apps and the decrease in our attention spans, TikTok has seen a surge in popularity (as we all know); competitors Instagram and YouTube are following suit by pushing their short-form portrait videos.
So it begs the question, are we still reading blogs?
Writing is a from of catharsis and gives a form of expression that viral videos can’t necessarily. When we want to put our minds to it, we will happily listen to a 90 minute podcast, watch a 3 hour film and so long-form content isn’t going anywhere.
So what’s been going on?
So – a quick overview of 2020 and 2021
Well I don’t need to go into lockdowns etc, we’ve all been there and got the loo roll, but with the exhaustion we all felt with the pandemic – not enough socialising without the use of screen-time and too much blue-light – I couldn’t bring myself to spend even more time sitting at a computer.
I completed Red January and raised money for charity.
I pretty much gave up on Instagram and with it lost over 1,000 followers (2018 me would have been so upset!) and I couldn’t care less how low my reach is now.
Stephen Fry (Stephen Fry!), Anya Hindmarch, Richard Madeley, Griff Rhys Jones, and more, made videos for my Christmas campaign at work,
I learnt to be my own hairdresser – experimented with pastel colours and dyed over my salon perfect blonde highlighted mane with various colours of the rainbow. I bleached my hair. It didn’t go too badly. I grew it out and went back to my natural brunette shade. I got extensions. I lobbed it off again.
I have tried more colours, style and lengths in two years than I have in twenty.
I was a bridesmaid to one of my longest friends. Attended seven weddings!
I turned 30.
I was whisked to Paris by my boyfriend. Returned days later to find France shut its borders to the UK. *we made it to Disneyland just in time!*
Fulfilled one of my lifetime dreams of making a purchase in the 31 Rue Cambon CHANEL store and posed on Coco’s famous steps. Tears of joy!ย
A few days ago I was asked to be a godmother.
Ignoring some really (really) shit parts of the last two years – this list shows there is so much to be grateful and happy for.
So, there are a lot of reasons I’ve been too busy to pretend that I’ve been living my best life on social media. Because I’ve just been living life.
How are my blogging friends? Hope you’re well and taking care.
Fashion trends that shouldn’t follow us into 2020.
New year, new trends. However, some trends tend to outstay their welcome (or were never even welcome in the first place) and stick around for too long.
This is a disclaimer: don’t get offended if you like any of these trends; this is just my opinion. If you like to dress like this, I’m sure you’re still a nice person.
Here are the 8 trends that need to disappear in 2020:
1. Cycling shorts
Unless you’re training for the Tour De France, you have no place wearing these outside of a gym. They do not look good with a T shirt, a baggy jumper, a nice top, a shirt, trainers, sandals or heels… they do not look good with anything. I’m sorry, cycling shorts are awful and should not be worn for “every occasion” as Glamour magazine suggests you should.
2. Ridiculously tiny ‘bags’ aka ‘micro bags’
It was the 2010s – where mobile phones started to get bigger and bags became so small the phones cannot fit in them. It is extremely logical… (note the sarcasm).
These are not functional by any means, but fashionable? Also no. There is literally no point in these but to make people look at you and think ‘did that bag get shrunk in the wash?’ or ‘is that person carrying a Barbie doll’s bag?’.
I’m not talking about the bags that are also classed as a ‘wallet on chain’, you know, a device that can actually fit in your credit cards and a set of keys. No, I’m talking about the micro bag by French designer Jacquemus which sparked the tiniest trend yet.
The bag I’m referring to is a massive one inch deep, two inches high and wide and weighs 3oz. You’d be lucky to fit a Lil-let tampon in there.
But don’t worry, for your ยฃ200, you’ll also get a dust bag included, and I can see why a dustbag is necessary, because by the looks of it, it’ll only take two specks of dust to disintegrate this thing.
The only person that can get away with wearing a bucket hat, in my opinion, is Billie Eilish. But, even the most stylish celebrities I’ve seen wearing a bucket hat end up looking like a long-lost member of Hanson. Bucket hats paired with floaty dresses and chic suits? For me, it just doesn’t go and looks off-balanced. I guess it works if you’re going straight from fashion week to fishing though.
But maybe I’m just jealous because I struggle to find hats that suit me.
I’m talking about the typical Essex boy look here. Leather loafers or trainers worn WITHOUT socks. I mean, some shoes will lend themselves to the ‘no-sock’ rule, such as espadrilles, but fully enclosed leather brogues? That’s just screaming fungal breeding-ground.
Every time I see a guy without socks I want to ask: ‘are your feet not extremely sweaty??’. I’ve even seen some go sockless along with tight, rolled-up chinos to a wedding. Unless its a wedding on the beach, this is not acceptable and Ascot agrees – as men without socks will now be refused entry to the races.
Finally, this trend has introduced the word ‘mankles‘ to the English lexicon. MANKLES! If that’s not a sign to ditch this trend I don’t know what is.
5. Socks and sliders
Now this is why I’m confused… Aforementioned men who don’t wear socks with shoes will also be the ones who wear socks WITH sandals? Oh, the irony.
Socks and sandals has notoriously been a fashion faux-pas, so it’s actually quite impressive that this one has caught on. Well done socks and sandals.
Couple joggers with the socks and sliders and you’re on track for the perfect outfit for taking the bins out in the morning.
I’m not hating on joggers; they are very cosy. I have many pairs. The reason I wear them is either for slobbing about watching Netflix, travelling or actually jogging (pffft who am I kidding? I don’t jog).
I would just like to campaign for people to stop wearing joggers to restaurants and other public places. Nando’s isn’t Michelin star cuisine, and Odeon doesn’t call for a black-tie dress code, but come on, have some decency to wear actual clothes to go out to eat. And proper shoes with socks too.
7. Saddle bags
Okay, this may be controversial… but the Dior saddle bags and all the liver-shaped replicas that it inspired should have stayed in 1999. I liked it on Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City and that’s where my interest in this bag ends. Vintage pieces can bring another layer to a modern outfit, but a brand new copy-and-paste version of the original that has been brought back by Maria Grazia Chiuri still feels out-dated (and over-priced at that).
Photo: Getty Images.
8. Boiler suits
So this last one I’m a bit on the fence about. Perhaps it’s because I’ve not yet found a flattering boiler suit, and yet, it can look quite chic when styled up the right way. However, I can’t really get the image out of my head that if I wore one I’d look like I’m about to shovel some coal or like an extra in ‘Orange is the New Black’.
Every year there’ll be some new weird and wonderful clothing styles and I look forward to seeing them. Perhaps we’ll have creative clothes made out of old Tesco uniforms, in the same way the IKEA blue bags had a moment. I was going to say Sainsbury’s in stead of Tesco, but Beyoncรฉ’s brand Ivy Park already has that covered.
Are there any ‘ugly fashion’ trends that you like? What do you think 2020 will bring?
Thanks for reading, please leave a comment and be sure to come back again ๐
Yeah, it’s a crazy place and it’s enough for anyone to feel overwhelmed. Notice, that a lot of (if not all) stories about ‘influencers’ in the press are negative. Couple that with the pressure on numbers and it’s easy to be demotivated.
Negativity in the industry
The negativity around this industry doesn’t worry me into stopping blogging, but maybe the portrayal of bloggers as “detestable freeloaders” and cancel culture has caused my subconscious to make me take a step back from blogging out of fear of being branded a bad person and have people ‘coming for me’ if I make a mistake.
That, and the fact been I’ve busy, ill, renovating a house, working a full-time, can’t be bothered, focusing on Instagram (delete as appropriate).
So, it’s time to get motivated and start posting. How? I’m making a promise, mostly for myself, that I will try to post at least once a week.
I need to be forgiving and get over everything trying to be perfect. As I said before in another post ‘am I shit at blogging?’: “itโs just not always possible to create the vision in my head, which is why I end up with a long list of ideas and unfinished blog posts.”
So, I’m going take a leaf out of Maria J’s book and try to write more on the fly, when the mood strikes, with or without curated photos. I loved what she said here because that’s exactly how I want to go forward with my blog:
I havenโt given up all quality, I just want this to be more casual and more me.
Ways to break the blogging break
(And what I vow to do from now on).
1. Set a goal and stick to it.
Set a goal of how consistently you’re going to post. I’d like to do two posts a week, but I’m going to sayย at leastย once a week.
2. Post when the mood strikes
To help with the first goal, write when you feel like writing.
Type it up, put it into your editor, quickly read it back and HIT PUBLISH. I never posted often because I faffed trying to make sure I had the ‘correct’ photos and ‘proper’ research all put in.
3. Write every random thought down
No motivation nor ideas? Just type up/write down any thoughts that come into your head. It doesn’t need to be in full sentences or even make sense. You don’t need to post it but, I find this helps me to get ideas flowing and get some motivation to write.
4. Read a few blogs
When I’m really not motivated to write anything at all, I’ll check out content from other people in the hope it inspires me.
5. Set a schedule
I’m going to try this. Set aside a time slot to blog a week. Maybe 6pm – 8pm on Mondays is blog time and that’s the only thing you do in that time.
6. Stop focusing on Instagram
The reason my blog is being neglected is because I’veย beenย paying more attention to Instagram. The blog is the only platform you have fullย control of, and I’ve been forgetting that. Instagram is great, but not when I’m spending too much time on that. I’m sure I’m not the only person that is guilty of this.
Not in the mood to write a post? Just do something that will help your blog. Update a few of the image descriptions, update your plugins, tick the admin thing off the list that you’ve been meaning to do. There’s always something easy that you can do to help.
Question for you! Leave a comment ๐
So, do you have any tips to get your blogging mojo back? And what do you think about the representation of bloggers and influencers in the media… do you think this has a subconscious effect on you or your ability to create content?
This blog post is literally what it says on the tin! Lindsey who blogs at cozystylist.com rounded us bloggers up together to create a collaboration blog post and I think it’s been a success. It’s so interesting to see one trend styled in different ways by bloggers with unique, personal styles. We hope you enjoy it!
A faux fur leopard print coat adds a bit of luxuriousness to any outfitโฆ plus itโs really warm! Normally, Iโm not afraid to mix prints together but, for this outfit, I let the coat be the statement piece and chose a neutral palette for the rest of the outfit.
Oversized pieces and flowy fabrics has also been a big trend, so I put together my favourite nude-pink culottes with a light copper tone blouse with a twist front. I think the tonal colours really compliment the leopard print – the mix of textures and colours create an elegant final look (so, of course, I wore this to the Dorchester!).
To finish the look, I picked out the black spots in the coat and accessorised with a beautiful croc textured DVF bag (another animal print big for autumn and winter!) and some simple black heels. However, the great thing about this look is that you can easily dress it down, by wearing some chunky sneakers or some leather chelsea boots, if youโre wanting to go more casual.
I’ve always been a huge fan of statement accessories โ be it a necklace, statement earrings or a loud shoe. Statement accessories are a great way to experiment with trends that may be out of your comfort zone, and for many people, animal prints can be a little intimidating. What I love about these leopard print boots is that they are so incredibly easy to dress up or dress down. You can wear them with virtually anything, like jeans and an oversized sweater for a more casual look like I did here. These boots also look great with a dress or skirt and some tights for a dressier look.
I’m a 90s gal through and through, so when animal print came back into fashion, I immediately picked up literally everything in leopard print. My favorite find?! This ASOS dress that is perfect for nearly every occasion! I’m always running late in the morning, so a dress is my perfect go-to outfit. With this piece, you can easily dress it down –like I’ve done here– with a pair of Vans. If it’s chilly where you live, black booties and a nice leather jacket give it a bit of an edge. Headed somewhere a bit fancy? Throw on a pair of heels and you’ve got yourself a sexy drape neck dress. And, because of the leopard print, there’s a little pop of that extra something!
I am usually the type of girl to stick to solid colors or very simple prints like stripes or polka dots. So when I saw that leopard was going to be a big trend this season I had to think of ways that I could incorporate the print into my wardrobe. I ended up buying this fabulous scarf and pointed flats. I found that I could style this scarf with many different outfits. It goes perfectly with a long sleeve tee, jeans, and flats or a cute sweater dress and boots. You can mix the leopard print with other patterns but I choose to wear it as the only printed piece so that I don’t overwhelm my outfit. The scarf works perfectly against fall tones and neutral colors.
I love incorporating prints into my fall wardrobe, and leopard print is the perfect way to spice things up while staying on trend. I decided to style this leopard print skirt from Forever 21. I love this piece because this particular print is subtle and great for everyday wear. I paired the skirt with a knit black sweater and lace-up suede booties. I accessorized my outfit with polka dot tights and rose gold jewelry for a cohesive and warm look.
In an online world full of contradictions, do you feel conflicted about your body image?
This post is about how a simple bikini photo shoot (pics courtesy of Dan – thanks) led me to feel more confident and ask myself if I should feel guilty for not always being happy with my body.
When you go on a week-long beach holiday do you take enough bikinis for a month or is that just me? I love the sea and swimming (and apparently bikinis) so when UK Swimwear reached out to me about collaborating I said yes straight away. Youโll find designer swimwear to suit all different needs and styles – for me I loved every single item by Watercult (their stuff is beautiful!)
But then, I realised for this blogpost that I would have to photograph myself in a bikini and put it up for everyone to see and I wondered if I wanted to do that… Itโs weird because I post photos of myself wearing outfits, so why should this be any different? Iโve been struggling with my body confidence so now, so I was worried about putting photos of me semi-naked on my blogโฆ
So, originally I was going to write a holiday checklist (I always need to do this before every trip, so Iโll still publish that) but now have these bikini photos ready to post, I thought that talking about body confidence in this post would be more fitting.
At the end of this blog post, I have three points for you to take away that I hope helps if you ever feel bad about yourself… or feel bad for feeling bad about yourself.
Conflict of feelings
I feel ashamed to say that Iโm not happy with how my body is at the moment.
Whatever body shape or size you are, unfortunately, youโre not immune to feeling body-conscious. Weโve come a long way in the representation of womenโs bodies but there is a lot of damage to undo. Weโve seen the supposed โperfect body typeโ presented by the media and advertising for so long now that social media and society has created an ingrained pressure for women to look a certain way.
But now, there are conflicting messages in the media too – โyou should be proud of your body whatever it looks like!โ โDonโt conform to the patriarchyโs ideals of beauty!โ โBe confidentโ and other slightly aggressive demands amongst all sorts of inspirational quotes. We still see โperfectโ images of Victoria Secret models everywhere in magazines but weโre now being told we should always be positive about our own bodies.
And itโs making me feel guilty that Iโm not always โbody positiveโ. On the other hand, I donโt feel like I can use the expression โbody positiveโ because I donโt want to appropriate a message thatโs been created for plus-size women. Iโm just an average size with the average concernsโฆ I’ll obssess over so many things wrong with my body, ย yet I would never think so harshly about other people..
Itโs not just me or you that feels this. Here are some quotes from other people that we can probably relate to:
โI obsess about my weight constantly, and I really hate myself for it, especially for being such a hypocrite. I preach self-love all the time to my friends and canโt seem to find any for myself.โ
I am able-bodied, thanks to a surgery I had when I was two. If it werenโt for the NHS and a fantastic surgeon, itโs possible that I wouldnโt be able to walk properly. So, why am I putting my body down when it has managed to go through so much with me?
Ever since then, Iโve had a large scar on my right leg and hip and one going through my stomach across the pelvis. Yet Iโve never been ashamed or embarrassed by the scars. I never mind telling people where they came from when they see it and ask. Iโm actually proud of them – my war wounds ๐
(I used to do synchronised swimming but I’m rusty so don’t judge my technique!)
However, when it comes to my cellulite, my stretch marks, and my lumpiness it fills me with disgust. But itโs totally normal and natural for anyone to have these. In fact, 80% of people have stretch marks and 90% of women and 10% of men have cellulite. Thatโs 90%! How can that be something we are embarrassed by when literally almostย every woman has them?
I feel ashamed to say that Iโm not happy with how my body is at the moment. I know that’s because there’s more to life than our bodies and, to other people, there may look like there’s anything ‘wrong’ with my body. And there isn’t – so that’s why I feel bad sharing my insecurities.
I shared an Instagram post a few weeks ago saying I felt uncomfortable in my own skin and everyone was so kind; a lot of you were saying that I had nothing to be worried about. Thereโs nothing wrong with how my body is but right now I feel that this isnโt my body.
That probably makes no sense.
I’ll explain…
It’s more of a psychological issue than a physical issue.
Never before have I had any issues or worries about how my body looked. I did a lot of exercise and managed to maintain the same weight for years. That was until I took some medications a few years ago which had the side effects of weight gain. Ever since I took those, they changed how I felt about myself; now Iโm focused on so many โflawsโ I never had or noticed before. Iโve been struggling to get back to where I was – the โold meโ who didnโt worry about that.
Itโs not that I think my body shape or size is not nice and I donโt want to write anything that would make someone else upset or self-conscious. But, I donโt feel like my body suits me. I feel uncomfortable having a bit of chub I didnโt have before. I look at my old photos and that is a happy person who didnโt worry.
So, I suppose my problem is not how I think I look but how it makes me feel.
The body I have now is one that hasn’t healed itself yet. My scars from my operation have healed. But, the lumps, the extra cushioning around my cheeks and waist are scars that haven’t healed yet… because they are reminders of a mentally tough period in my life which I’m not over yet. When I’m out the other side I’ll either have lost these parts I don’t likeย or I’ll be happy enough to accept them.
But that’s why I’m not joining in with the movement of shouting from the rooftops that I have flaws and I’m proud of them. Does that make any sense?
Thatโs one of the reasons I like fashion. It makes me feel better.
You may look at my photos and think I have nothing to worry aboutโฆ And I know that I shouldnโt worry, which where this guilt comes from. You may also say, well if youโre not confident why are you posting these photos?
To that I say, well, it was a lot of fun taking these and I felt more confident as we went on. I feel happy with how these came out. They have happy memories behind them. My boyfriend and I were on holiday together, having a laugh playing around taking these photos and I felt good wearing this bikini*. Also, it helped that I knew that no one on the beach knew me that day so I didn’t worry about looking silly.
I wish you could see behind-the-scenes of this photo… I’m demanding that Dan ‘get lower down’, ‘no, lower so the sun is behind my face’ … Him: ‘No I don’t want to get all sandy; I’ll have to go and wash it off in the sea again!’ ‘I can’t see you, it’s so bright!’
And trust me, these photos arenโt all realistic themselves – Iโve put up the best photos of the bunch and we took a lot of photos… and a lot didnโt make the cut. In these Iโm stretching out, facing my back to the camera, and trying to angle myself so the lumps and rolls donโt stick out. Same as what models do on photoshoots and everyone does on Instagram. Just take Iskra Lawrenceโs example that we can all hide certain things when we pose a certain way.
So, the last thing I’d want is for anyone to compare my images to themselves and feel bad. These are just some photos that I think turned out well.
What you wear makes a difference
Putting on this bikini, I could tell it was of a much higher quality than the bikinis I normally wearโฆ As soon as I put it on I felt really good in it; it fits well and the bikini top gives the support of bra. (A good supportive bikini top is necessary when swimming – trust me! Iโve had a few rogue floating bikini tops after diving into the pool before!). I love the embroidery and the elastic on the bottom is supported with Petersham so I’m sure these will last for quite a few holidays to come.
Look at the little gold pineapple charms!!!
What you wear really can dictate how youโre feeling about your body and image. When Iโm dressed in something I love, I feel confident and am therefore happier with how I look. When Iโm in panic-mode and having โnothing to wearโ (we all know thatโs not true, but weโve all been there) and I chuck on something Iโm not quite feeling, then I know Iโm not going to be thinking positively towards my body. Iโm fairly sure that Iโm not alone in this.
So, if youโre going to a pool or a beach, my advice is to find a swimsuit that fits you really well in the style and design you really like. Itโll make all the difference to your confidence.
And if you want to do what I did, try taking some photos and you might end up with ones that you think you look banging in.
Whatโs the conclusion to this then?
I have three things that Iโve realised:
1. Youโre not alone if you feel guilty for not always liking your body.
In todayโs world of social media, itโs hard not to escape the paradox of โthis is how to improve yourself!โ and โbe fine with how you are!โ. We canโt blame ourselves for having mixed feelings about our image.
2. Donโt compare yourself to images online
Although almost itโs unavoidable seeing these images everywhere and itโs become an unconscious thing to do – comparing ourselves is not healthy for our esteem. When you catch yourself with these thoughts make a conscious point to tell yourself that a photo online doesnโt always tell the full story.
3. Make a small step towards body confidence and dress up in something that makes you feel good
Iโm not meaning that you should โdress nicerโ and Iโm not insinuating you need a magic makeover, not at all. This isnโt just surface-deep. On a psychological level, you can boost your self-esteem if youโre happy (or happier) with how you see yourself on the outside.
Now go out and treat yourself! Itโs the perfect excuse ๐
Have you ever felt bad for feeling bad or are you always confident no matter what? Honestly, Iโd love to hear different points of view on this. Leave me a comment and maybe we can start a discussion.
*This experience at the Dorchester was gifted by hotels.com, but all views are my own.
📍Mayfair, London, UK.
Looking for the perfect Instagram spots in London?
Look no further than Mayfair.
Mayfair is arguably one of the prettiest, best-kept areas in London. Well, thatโs not a surprise given its status and has the top spot on the Monopoly board. There are few places that youโll always see on Instagram but you might not necessarily have known where it was.
If youโre coming from out of town and are looking for a location thatโs within walking distance of tourist attractions, the West End, shopping and anything really, consider hotels near Mayfair, because whilst itโs amongst all the buzz, it can also be a bit quieter than other areas.
Dining
1. The Dorchester
You know us Brits love our tea, and Iโm no exception, so when I was invited for afternoon tea at the Dorchester, there was no way I was missing it.
Built in the 1930s and recognised as one the worldโs most prestigious hotels known for hosting Hollywood icons throughout history, you canโt imagine a hotel much more luxurious. Walking into the Promenade, you feel the glamour of the Golden Age wash over you.
The waiters and concierges were so amenable and helpful. This experience isnโt just about eating lunch and drinking tea; itโs about receiving the VIP treatment and dining in such a beautiful setting which makes it special. Whether youโre a local or a tourist, an afternoon tea at the Dorchester is simply something you have to do at some point.
2. Sketch
Itโs no surprise that bloggers flock to Sketch in Mayfair to get a snap for their โgram thanks to its beautiful powder pink decor and velvet furniture. Plus it has a reputation as one of the best restaurants in London with two Michelin stars.
Okay, so I had to make a trip here. My friend introduced me to the cocktail salon hidden away in the menโs department. Itโs a lot quieter and easier to get a comfy chair than its other bars. So, shhh donโt tell too many people about this secret!
Itโs well worth a visit here around Christmas time! They have already opened up their Christmas shop. I couldnโt resist getting a tree decoration in the form of their iconic F&M wicker baskets. Expensive but worth it.
Whilst youโre there, stop for a sweet treat in this cute little pastel perfect 50s style ice-cream parlour. Guaranteed to get some really cute selfies here.
4. New bond street
Chanel. Prada. Saint Laurent. Louis Vuitton. Cartier. Tiffany. Name a designer. Itโs on this street.
Whether youโre splurging or window shopping, taking photos down this beautiful street is free. So take a snap and upload it to the โgram and keep people guessing as to which one youโre doing ๐
5. Dover Street Market
Itโs not really a market – not in the traditional sense. Itโs not anything like Camden. Itโs more a multi-brand retailer or a โconcept storeโ with installations of different boutiques and exhibition areas.
It was created by Rei Kawakubo of the label Comme des Garรงons. It also sells streetwear and high-end designers like Gucci and Loewe.
Expect some quirky props like fluffy flamingoes that you can pose in front of!
My first memory of this small shopping lane was when I was a lot younger – we always saw a show at Christmas time after looking at all of the department store Christmas windows. Full of tiny tiny boutiques, itโs really quite a unique place to shop.
Back then, I never recognised any of the brands, but now there are more recognisable ones, like Manolo Blahnik.
Touristy spots
7. Speakersโ Corner on Hyde Park
At the top of Park Lane, I stopped by Speakersโ Corner. If you havenโt heard of this before, itโs basically an area of Hyde Park, where anyone can take their soapbox, and speak until their heartโs content. Itโs open-air space for public speaking, debates and discussions.
I saw two interesting characters there this Sunday. An American man wearing a cowboy hat, boots and bootleg denim jeans speaking the word of God, contrasted with a eighty-something-year-old tattooed Eastender, Ronnie, accompanied by his shopping trolley which had a plastic bird perched on the handle.
If you have time I definitely recommend getting involved or just going to listen!
8. Buckingham Palace
Okay, itโs technically not in Mayfair, but itโs just a short walk and if youโre in the area, you might as well pop in to see if Her Majesty is home.
9. Shepherd Market
This has a bit of everything: eateries, shopping, cute houses – definitely a cute place for an outfit shot.
Whilst doing my research, I discovered that this was where Mayfair actually began.
In the 1730s and โ40s local architect, Edward Shepherd started a 15-day market and festival to become Shepherd Market Mayfair.
And you just have to go and see the Christmas lights there in December.
Cute fountains and 19th-century architecture – such a photogenic spot. This was erected as the state entrance to Buckingham Palace. Itโs just at the end of Oxford Street, so if youโre out doing some shopping around Westminster you may eventually reach it. Itโs based on the Arc de Triomphe in Parisโฆ see the similarities?
I hope you enjoyed this post! Has it inspired you to go to any of these places? Anywhere you would recommend? Leave me a comment ๐ As always, thanks for reading!
Okay, it’s time for round two. By that, I mean I’ve written this before. Dรฉjร -vu. If you think you’ve already read or commented on this post, then you probably did. Just for context, I was having a bad day (I mean really bad) and something went wrong with my code in the back-end. What was a fairly simple fix, I made things more complicated than they needed to be and restored my blog to its last backed up state. So, the last four blog posts I’d written WERE DELETED FOREVER * crying face emoji *.
Autumn fashion
I don’t know about you, but autumn fashion can be tricky to get right. The weather in October is never sure what it’s doing in the UK. Will we have a mini heatwave or will it storm? You just never know what to dress for. This is why knitwear is always the answer for me. You wear can wear a knitted cardigan or jumper on its own when it’s too warm for a coat but you can also put a coat on top for when itย isย cold.
Four staple pieces for autumn
1. Black turtleneck
The black turtleneck has never really gone out of style. They are so simple, chic and classic. It’s been a fashion favouriteย ever since the 1930s. While the first person to come to mind when you think of black turtlenecks may be Steve Jobs, who isn’t exactly known for his style sense, you can’t deny the number of fashion icons that have been photographed wearing the black turtleneck: Yves Saint Laurent, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, Steve McQueen… and of course, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson inย that vintage photo. (I’ve included it at the end, you’re welcome).
Animal print is a massive trend for autumn. I love this leopard skater skirt (it’s only ยฃ12 – bargain!) not only does it look stylish but it’s also comfy. You could get away with wearing this bare-legged on the warmer, balmy days or put on some knee-high boots or tights for warmth on the cold days – which makes this skirt a great transition piece.
It doesn’t just have to be leopard print though. Snake-print is everywhere, as well as tiger, zebra (I’m lusting after these beaut palazzo pants), crocodile – anything exotic.
These were on-trend last year and they’re back again. They’re so flattering because they fit, well, like a sock. The ones I’m wearing are perfect if you want to wear a statement but are not ready to go all-out. The clear perspex heel is an interesting twist on a classic black boot which makes a statement but is still classy.
I love a co-ord. Even better when that co-ord is knitted and comfy. I was afraid knitted co-ords would look too much like pyjamas… but the pyjama as outerwear is still going strong so I’m all for it. I also love that you get more outfits for your money with this. You can wear the top and bottoms together, or you could mix and match with other items in your wardrobe and that’s what makes it so versatile.
*These items were gifted.
What are your staples for autumn? Are you loving the animal print trend too? Leave me a comment ๐
Thank you to my lovely friend Laura for taking these bomb photos! Follow her for yoga inspiration: instagram.com/ripetideyoga
This post is in honour of the Rock rocking a turtleneck. We stan.ย 🙌
Who doesn’tย love Netflix and chill, Amazon Prime and unwind, Now TV and… take it easy? I can’t wait to get a brand new TV for my house – I’ll be having a look theย Panasonic Oled Televisions.
Sometimes my two passions (fashion and snuggling on the sofa) come together. I love watching stylish programmes that show off fashion eye-candy, likeย Gossip Girl, Sex and the City, 90210… And as only re-runs air now, the new show that filled the void in 2017 was the multi award-winningย Big Little Lies.ย If you haven’t watched it yet I implore you to!
Alongsideย flawless acting, with a show starring Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Shailene Woodley, Alexander Skarsgรฅrd, Laura Dern and Zoe Kravitz, how could you not expect an impressive exhibition of fashion?
ย
Entertaining with great storytelling and visual artistry and speaking meaningfully about the world we inhabit.
Other TV shows returning in 2019 that Iย cannotย wait for:
Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Jake Peralta and Captain Holt never fail to make me literally laugh out loud. The world panicked when it was cancelled and wept with joy when it was picked up for season six by another network in the same day. What an emotional rollercoaster.
Game of Thrones: if you’re not watching this epic, where have you been? Just everything about this show will have you on edge (once you’ve got your head around all the characters).
Good Girls:ย hilarious and gripping, this is a cross betweenย Bridesmaidsย andย Breaking Bad.
Black Mirror:ย creepier and creepier each season, you don’t want to look, but you can’t look away – whilst also being paranoid that you’re in an alternative universe where someone is watching you
OMG I tried to watch Netflix’s new show (or bomb)ย Insatiable.ย Preparing myself for some black comedy and a harsh reflection on society’s perception of beauty… I was sorely disappointed.
I don’t even recommend this show for the laughs. Because there are none.
It tries so hard to be funny and slick… but it doesn’t succeed. It could’ve been good.
But, a show that uses the line ‘skinny is magic’ in all seriousness without a hint of underlying sarcastic commentary is not a show clever enough to pull off what they’re trying to do.
Don’t worry, it’s not just me who thinks this – it received mostly bad reviews.
Anyway, enough of that rubbish! Let’s move on…
Why you should watch Big Little Lies
Have you not read the list of stars in the show? Alexander Skarsgรฅrd. Reese Witherspoon.ย Alexander Skarsgรฅrd. Nicole Kidman and…ย Alexander Skarsgรฅrd.
They touch upon hard topics that need more awareness, for example, domestic abuse.
Tough reflection on society and its obsession with perfection and image.
Big Little Lies:ย New Wardrobe Envy
I love Reese’s character in Big Little Lies,ย Madeline Martha Mackenzie. She’s firey, takes control, loyal, will do anything for her friends and sometimes fucks up but isn’t afraid to admit it.
In the season one finale, the women all dress like Audrey Hepburn characters for a party (as you do) and Madeline dresses as Holly Golightly in her pjs.
You know we’re all about that pjs-as-outerwear trend, so I’m totally stealing that Reese-as-Madeline-as-Audrey-as-Holly look! (Wow it’s fashion inception)
This look cost me like ยฃ9! lol
ย
Bruises heal, stigmas can last a lifetime.
– Madeline Martha Mackenzie
The costume department may haveย dressed Reese in an oversized Cรฉline shirt, but, I went one better and got this beautiful white peplum shirt dress from Asos for a toal of ยฃ3, once I used my student discount and my ยฃ15 Asos rewards voucher – #winning.
I decided not to go full-on with an eye mask, like Reese’s, (fun fact: the costume designer bought the actual one worn on the show from Etsy!) but in stead, I took it as inspiration and went for something more wearable like a twisted head-wrap.
I got this one from Claire’s Accessories, random, as I have not set foot in that shop since I was 12, but heads up – if you need a handband they have loooooads of choice in there! They’re perfect for keeping hair off your face on holiday!
“Sometimes Iโm just holding onto this idea of perfection so tight, something has to give.”
Top tip: get costume earrings from eBay!
These cost around ยฃ3 (you know Zara be charging ยฃ15), they came the next day and the quality is pretty good so far!
Madeline is often seen in feminine floral A-line dresses with a little cardigan. Definitely stuff I wear on holiday. Probably all the time if I lived by the beach like her…
This Jack Wills piece gets the vibe of Madeline’s dress here quite well and I think it will be good to transition from Summer into Autumn. They also have a more casual cami version ๐
By the way, shout out to all the Instagram boyfriends out there – thank you Daniel for your photography and willingness to follow me to various places and hold up a blanket whilst I change in a park!
Earrings: Ebayย | Dress: Jack Wills | Bag: Fendiย | Shoes: Asos
ย
You can go fuck yourself on the head.
– Madeline Martha Mackenzie
I hope you enjoyed this. What do you think of my attempt at Madeline’s look? Let me know in the comments if you watched or are going to watch any of the TV shows I mentioned in the comments and if you have any recommendations!
I hope the people remember Dolce & Gabbana for the sensuality, for the Mediterranean sense, for our honesty to the life.
-Domenico Dolce
Dolce & Gabbana has one of the most distinctive brand personalities – think of Dolce & Gabbana and you think of sunny Sicily, small Italian villages, big italian families and big designs. It’s one of the most recognised fashion houses since the 80s, so it’s no surprise that there is so much on the high street that has clearly taken inspiration * cough * or ripped off * cough * from D&G. Being one of my favourite designers, it made sense for my next ‘inspired by’ post to be on D&G.
[Check out my Style Inspiration posts onย Gucci and Chloรฉ]
If there is one thing that Dolce & Gabbanaย doesn’tย do, it’s doing things by halves. It’s the definition ofย maximalismo. Everything is exuberant.
Fun fact: Dolce & Gabbana have said that when they die, their eponymous fashion house will die with them – they do not want anyone else to take over after they are gone. Every offer they have received so far, for example, when they broke up as a romantic couple, floods of offers came in to take control but they refused.
The DOLCE DNA
If you want to experiment with your style and add a splash of D&G flavour to your high-street outfit, then here’s what to look for:
Bralettes, camis, satin pyjama pieces, corsets, structured tops… These are the types of pieces that make up the basis of Dolce & Gabbana’s aesthetic. Perhaps, the corset is the most iconic – a favourite of their muse Sofia Loren – which subsequently returns to their collections. I saw this bejeweled bustier top on Zara and immediately knew where they got their inspiration from. Black and red are staples of the D&G diet, more specifically, black lace and red jewels and lips.
Florals make up a large proportion of Dolce & Gabbana’s prints, especially roses. Instead of ditsy prints, look for large flowers that dominate the fabric. This white and red rose rockability dress is absolutely stunning (any weddings coming up soon?) and a complete D&G dupe.
Have fun with the florals – clash them with other prints, like polka dots or leopard print, maybe go for a nautical vibe and pair a floral top with stripes.
Go for statement prints that remind you of summer. Prints that are beloved by D&G (and lucky for us available on the high-street) are florals, as mentioned, prints with fruit, post-card prints (an example of what I mean below), animal prints – especially leopard, a classic – scarf prints and tile prints to evoke their gorgeous maiolica print…
This H&M dress may be a bit extra, but as soon as I saw it, I needed it. The sweetheart neckline, the ruffles, the banana and yellow lily print just screamed Dolce & Gabbana.. which may be why it sold out straight away. I tried three times to buy it when it went out of stock! Eventually, I came, I saw, I conquered! It was all worth it. This dress has earned so many compliments every time I’ve worn it.
If you’re afraid of wearing something like this, then maybe first try it out with flats and understated jewellery and start by wearing it to an event like a wedding, where you’ll feel more comfortable all dressed up.
Unfortunately, this dress is sold out! But here are some gorgeous alternatives:
We built our fashion around three fundamental concepts: Sicily, tailoring, and tradition.
– Domenico Dolce
4. Regal and religious accessories
Sicily is at the heart of the brand, so pieces that reflect the traditions of this Italian city are key. Domenico and Stefano love to play with bringing Italy’s historic and religious past into their modern-day looks. Expect to see a lot of big crosses and headpieces that would be fit for a queenย 👑.
Gold is a key metal, so pick out items with gold buttons and or cute headband to jazz up an outfit. Statement earrings are a must – the bigger the better. You’ll find loads of earrings on Etsy that are especially made to look like the ones seen on the runway.
Go for jewels upon jewels! Jewelled earrings – check. Embellished bag – check. Stone headband – check. Pretend you’re Beyoncรฉ in the ‘Bow Down’ video.
(Okay, I cheated with this outfit, because the top is not a high-street dupe, but I’ve listed a few tops below that are similar to the D&G top I’m wearing).
Look Four | Top: Dolce & Gabbana – in blueย | Earrings: Etsy | Skirt: Asos | Bag: Asos (sold out – similar) | ย Shoes: Topshop – similar | Headband: Asos
Purse friendly versions of this Dolce & Gabbana vest:
Baroqueย /bษหrษk/)
is a highly ornate and often extravagant style of architecture, art and music that flourished in Europe from the early 17th until the late 18th century. The baroqueย style used contrast, movement, exuberant detail, grandeur and surprise to achieve a sense of awe.
5. Baroque extravagance
The pattern on this Asos jumpsuit fits perfectly into the baroque category; it’s got the roses, the ornate gold borders, panelling and the colours are stunning together. Reminds me of the Sistine Chapel ceiling!
To get this look, make sure you have some gold or silver tones, along with textures like embroidery on top of intricate patterns and jacquard fabrics.
Look Five | Jumpsuit: Asosย |Bag: Zara | Sunglasses: Primark
I had a lot of fun putting together these outfits! Are you inspired to jazz up your outfit with a statement earring or cute box bag? Let me know in the comments what you thought ๐
Also would you want me to share the Lightroom presets I made for these photos? Let me know!
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9. Shepherd Market
I hope you enjoyed this post! Has it inspired you to go to any of these places? Anywhere you would recommend? Leave me a comment ๐ As always, thanks for reading!
Look One | Earrings: 
Unfortunately, this dress is sold out! But here are some gorgeous alternatives:
