Don't Kiss Me

The Return Of The Maverick.

2010-02-03T07:48:00.000-08:00

Day: Wednesday. Activity: Having a bath and going to the bank. Fags: 0! Not out of choice though, I appear to only have 28p left in my bank account. Boo. Alcohol intake: None so far, although there is a very tempting bottle of wine in the fridge, which may have to accompany my dinner tonight. Money spent: Zero! Indulgence: Well, I suppose spending 80% of the day either in bed or in front of the TV is quite an indulgence! Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dihG2yy__sE

As some of you may have realised, or forgotten by n

ow I suspect, I have been m.i.a for quite a while. But hey, I'm back now and ready to start up Don't Kiss Me all over again.

I would try and review everything that's happened over the past year and a bi

t in the fashion world, bu

t that would take me so long I'd end up permanently a year behind! So, instead I'm going straight to my favorite look of the season, one that I've loved every-time it's come arou

nd - nautical.

Here's some of my favorite high street pieces:

London Town

2008-10-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

Have just back from a pretty perfect few days in London. I got the train at 11pm-ish on Sunday (I was meant to get it at 8, but a quick chat with a friend turned into a full on catch-up & drinking session) which was pretty horrible as I arrived a bit before 1 and didn't ant to get a tube on my own, so I called a couple of friends - Alex and Rob - and went to a bar somewhere by Paddington station and drank a bottle of the cheapest wine on the menu. They then took me to Rob's flat in Notting Hill where I was crashing on the sofa. It's kinda a bit shabby chic, but I like it - and they have the most amazing DVD collection so we sat up watching vintage classics for a good few hours. Next morning - after a breakfast of coffee and cigarettes - I made a trip to this amazing vintage shop right by their flat called "Retro Clothing" where I got a broach and scarf. Then I got a tube to Oxford Circus, but made a point of avoiding the generic high street stores and headed straight to Berwick Street where they sell the most beautiful fabrics ever. I got a royal blue sequin covered silk, matching blue velvet, blue lining and black netting for a dress I just designed. After that I met my cousin and had a wonder around Soho before getting lunch in a lovely little Thai restaurant. I then went to Liberty's and gawped at the designer vintage section, which left me dying for another vintage hit, so I headed to Carnaby Street where I got a vintage dress and red jacket. I then jumped on the tube to Camden where I met Alex and Rob and some of their friends - all of who were lovely - and proceeded to get very tipsy and dance about to some amazing tunes. Next morning Alex had the day off so we got on a tube back to Camden and shopped around all day - unfortunately by this point I had spent all of my wages, my allowance and my EMA, so had no money to spend on any of the beautiful clothes. With my lack of money I mind, I popped back to Rob's got my stuff and got on the next train home - a very happy girl with new clothes, fabric and memories.
I was, however, wondering where you would all recommend as the best places to visit in London? You know - best pub, chilled bar, cheap club, vintage store, antique market, etc, etc?

Men, men, men...

2008-10-19T05:42:00.000-07:00

Day: Sunday. Activity: work and chillaxing (6 days with out a rest, plus 3 nights out this week = dying & loads of cw to catch up on!).) Fags: 0. (wooh!) Alcohol intake: None today, far far too many over the past week! Money spent: None today :). Indulgence: Nothing, tbh. Listening to: http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=tpsDegqioVA

Not sure if I mentioned the new job at John Lewis? Well anyway, yesterday they decided I wasn't going to be put on men's fashion - instead I'm going on sport! Yes, me - the least sporty person ever. However, after spending the whole day pretending I knew which Tennis racket was more streamlined, and why one treadmill is twice the price of the other, I managed to sneak away to menswear to help with the tidying up. And aaahh it's so nice! Men's fashion is just the loveliest thing in the world - I think it's because it's something I've never paid that much attention to, and all of a sudden I've been introduced to this whole new world of fashion I never knew was there. Anyway, after "ooohing" and "aaawwing" at cashmere jumpers for about a hour I decided it was something I had to share with you, so here's my top men's clothing at the moment - all of which are by Ralph Lauren and can be purchased from John Lewis ;].

(click to enlarge)

To be honest, I don't even go for guys that dress like this, but they are all so lovely and perfectly made, I'm sure any guy wearing these beauties could make me fall head over heels!

Back to reality...

2008-10-16T12:08:00.000-07:00

It appears I've made a ridiculous amount of posts about designer shiz lately, so in order to bring myself back down to earth and remember I'm far more "high street" than "high fashion", I'm going to post about the thing most true to my heart and my budget - shoes. Topshop shoes to be precise. I'm obsessed! Completely and utterly in love. And it's no wonder when you look at these beauties, most of which are about £70 - not bad! I might just have to save up for every single pair of these - I'm not sure there's any I can live without!!

Rundown...

2008-10-16T09:08:00.000-07:00

Day: Thursday. Activity: College, and plans of going out tonight, for a boogie (however going out on week nights never ends well, so I may reconsider.) Fags: 2. (Pretty good.) Alcohol intake: Umm 1 glass of wine...3 units? Money spent: £15.20 (bottle of vino and vogue). Indulgence: see previous ;]. Listening to: http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=4uHkrKg29d0

So, it seems I've unintentionally been doing a rundown of my favourite Spring/Summer 09 collections! But, I couldn't just leave it with the few I've mentioned (Dior, Preen, Christopher Kane, Giles Deacon, Henry Holland ad Luella), as there are so many more that have truly inspired me. With that in mind, I've decided to throw in a review of some of the other shows that have got me buzzing - unfortunately I don't have enough time to account for all of the collections I've loved, but here's a selection of my faves (I may add to this later at some point, but I'm really in love with so many - unusual as I'm normally very critical! - that the Autumn/Winter collections would be out before I'd finished!)

First up, Basso & Brooke.

It's all colour and patterns at Basso & Brooke - very "more is more"! And I think that's why I love it so much - clashing colours and patterns that just seem to compliment each other so well! The geometric pattern compliment the geometric shapes of the dress ad the super cute jump suits. The ball gowns are elegant with an edgy twit created by the Hawaiian floral patterns.

I've got love for Westwood this season (hell, I've always got a bit'o love for Viv!)

Again a bit of the clashing patterns, animal prints mixed with stripes - but more so, matching colours. I love the all baby pink, waistcoat, jacket and shorts ensemble, with a bit of yellow chucked in on the footwork. And logo t-shirts are definitely something I'll be re-investing in next Spring! The evening wear is also pot on - as always - with embellishment galour!

Denim daydreams at Topshop Unique.

I love topshop, and I love topshop unique even more! my favourite from this collection is the over sized beige jacket (bottom left), but the denim is unforgivably cute. Moving away from mixing different colours of denim - it's all about matching here. I will e buying myself matching pale denim shorts and waistcoat very, very soon!

Versatility at Viktor & Rolf.

Since going to see the House of Viktor & Rolf exhibition in London in July, I've considered them to be one of the designers who are most successfully experimental with shapes, however with this collection, they've proved that not only can they do shape, they can do colour and pattern too. Beautiful!

Dior, Dahlinng!

2008-10-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

Day: Wednesday. Activity: College, lots and lots of art work. Fags: 0. (Yes, that's right!). Alcohol intake: 0. Money spent: £0.35 (1 cookie). Indulgence: Cookie & strawberry bonbons. Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IiWeLsupcqE

At John Galliano's Dior Spring/Summer 2009 collection, there was a clear divide between styles - bright colours and monochromes. Ergo, leading to (wo)mans life long debate - to colour or not to colour?

Christian Dior in his publication in 1954 entitled 'The Little Dictionary of Fashion - A guide to dress sense for every woman' declared that he could write a whole book on the fabulousness of black. With the media constantly telling us different tales; "black is slimming", "colours bring out your complexion", "black is sexy", "black is boring", etc, etc, it's hard for anyone to make a decision as to which to choose.
However, why don't we all take a leaf out of Dior's book? If black is your favourite colour, don't give it up just because predictions for Spring/Summer 09 show colour, colour, colour. As John Galliano shows us, you can do both!
Personally I'm a lover of both black and colour, ad so wear them entirely depending on my mood. Take today for example - despite the horrible weather - I was in a very cheery mood when i awoke - so I wore a pink vintage print t-shirt, with a stripey skirt and tights. However yesterday, when my mood was slightly less happy-go-lucky, I wore dark skinny-jeans, a black cardie and black boots.
And surprisingly I don't feel morbid or depressed in black - it's just something I feel comfortable in, it's fail-safe. In black you always feel sexy and confident - sometimes understated is great for those "everyone must think I'm a horrible, strange, big haired person" days. There's nothing worse than on a day where your confidence is at an all time low, wearing a colour which makes you feel very self conscious. Every head you turn (most likely admiring your great taste) feels like someone dogging you up. Every whispered conversation (most likely about work of something totally boring) feels like it is about you and that hideous (beautiful) red coat.
So, yes, I love colour - but only for days when I feel on top of the world! Making me a firm believer in having a wide variety of shades in your wardrobe - plenty of black/brown/navy for "bleehh" days, and plenty of colour for "yeaahh" days ;].

Beautiful black at Dior.

And some just as beautiful brights as well!

Spring/Summer 09's got me thinking...

2008-10-14T14:44:00.000-07:00

Day: Tuesday. Activity: College, followed by an exciting English essay and then some blog-stalking. Fags: 1 (still being strong!). Alcohol intake: 0. Money spent: £5.60 (coffee and a cake at my favourite cafe). Indulgence: See previous. Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqM6oLM63YE

Over the past few days I've been reviewing the Spring/Summer 09 collections, and here's the ones that really got me thinking.
The lavish prints and tartans of last seasons collection have gone completely out the window with the Spring/Summer 09 collection from Preen. However, despite my initial thoughts when I heard about this "toning down", the catwalk pieces were just as exciting as ever. Patters printed on the fabrics have been exchanged for intricately manipulated patters in the material, with slashing and layering of different opaquity (is that a word!?) of fabrics. The mesh cut-out dresses were by far my favourite (especially in the burnt orange, which is THE colour for 09, don't you know!?). The whole concept of the collection seemed to revolve around moulding and adapting classic looks. No bright, garish patterns, no giant corsages or bows - all the decoration is created from the basics (zips twisted around the skirts and dress backs for decoration, fabrics manipulated into sculptured shapes, or cut away at into patterns.) Gets full marks for design and skill from me!

After Christopher Kane's fifth show, at London Fashion week, most of us were left in awe of his Spring/Summer 08 collection. He's abandoned the OTT glitter and sequins he was famed for after last seasons collection - but most definitely not for something more subdued. Giant sequins have been replaces with giant swirls of sculptural chiffon and leather. Of coarse in true Kane style, the hemlines are short and the colours a striking - not for the modest woman. Animal themes run through the collection with Gorilla graphic tops and leopard print cashmere's, and there is something about this which strikes me as very "street style" - are we seeing another example of what I like to call the "bubble-up-effect"? Fashionista.com shows Jessica, a 24 year old fashion journalist in London wearing a style similar to one of Kane's looks (far left) - high waisted skirts with graphic t-shirts. And this isn't the only place we've seen this look before - urban outfitters have been teaming vintage print tee's with high waisted skirts and braces for months now. However I must emphasise, I'm not criticising Christopher Kane, or implying he's a style stealer in the slightest - I'm actually a great fan of any designer who takes inspiration from the everyday girl. It's wonderful to see they look at some of the great young fashion minds, the real trend setters and the "it girls" with out the labels to see what it is we actually want from fashion. And Kane's King Kong inspired t-shirts are exactly that, what we want from fashion - young, quirky and memorable.

Velvet Underground

2008-10-13T09:04:00.000-07:00

Key piece for Autumn/Winter 08? Anything (and I mean anything, I even saw a girl with velvet leggings yesterday) velvet. Take a look at these lovelies for inspiration:

Geek Chic

2008-10-13T08:17:00.000-07:00

I'm a huge fan of sunglasses, all different shapes, colours and sizes. But it's not exactly sunny in winter, is it!? Disaster! Or not, as the case maybe. Such a simple answer, I don't know why no-one thought of it before - glasses! Well, yes I do realise glasses aren't a new invention, but they haven't exactly been a fashion statement until lately. I'm not talking about reading glasses, though - it's all about the "oh the lenses fell out of my sunnies" look.

See, all the fashionistas are all ready on the ball with this trend, so pick up these beauties and you're set to go! Only problem I can see is they don't hide "I haven't slept in 48hours" eyes, we might have to revert to the "I'm a child star who wears sunglasses 24/7" look for those hungover days!

Girls we wish we were and events we wish we could have attended...

2008-10-13T07:50:00.000-07:00

Day: Monday. Activity: I'm ill (again!!), so sleeping and reading french vogue (or pretending to, but I don't actually speak French, so i just look at the pretty clothes/models) Fags: 1 (how good am I!?). Alcohol intake: Probably still drunk from the weekend, hard to tell ;]. Money spent: 0 (good girl). Indulgence: Coffee, coffee, chocolate, more coffee... Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmnM7DdUqwY

Over the past year, its been all party party party in my world, but unfortunately I don't move in quite as cool circles as our favourite it-girls do. We can always pretend, though, right? ;]

The Hugo Boss Party at Kingswood Estate, East Hampton.

Leigh's Birthday.

Longchamp 60th Anniversary in NYC.

Maybe next year, eh!?

My weekend...

2008-10-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been pretty shopping / fashion jam packed, so I thought I'd share some of it with you. Starting with yesterday, I had some very overdue art books to take back to the library, so I headed into town, which of corse ended in a trip to Bristols new shopping centre, Cabot Circus. First stop - Urban Outfitters. With out a doubt one of the greatest shops known to man! Ater atleast an hour browsing the rails and rumbling through the shelves of vintage goodies, I decided on this brown leather mock-croc bag. It's perfect as you can wear it as a clutch in the evening (even has a perfect little handle, cause we all get anoyed at holiding it under our arm all night, don't we?), or attatch the gold chain and wear it on your shoulder during the day. Lovely, for £38 :]. After spending a considerable amount of time in Topshop, and realising everything I had chosen the week before had sold out, I was feeling a wee bit down hearted, but just as I was walking out of shopping center I saw River Island, and remembered how much I love this seasons colletion. Very glad I made a trip there, as I bough a lovely warm cream cardy for £29.99, with gold and pearl buttons :] perfect!

So, by the end of Saturday I realised it was the 4th of the month and I'd already spent all of my allowance (which comes on the 1st!) Not very smooth, Gemma!

But fear not! Today my Mother and I had tickets for a fashion show in Bristol, sort of a "Bristol Fashion Week" style thing. Just, minus any designer labels! But hey, I love a bit of high street fashion - and what's better for inspiration than seeing it paraded down a catwalk in all its loveliness!? After this, my mum (despite having not been speaking to me all week, due to a little incident involving a tattoo...) decided I just had to get some new black shoes for job interviews, however after we spent hours looking for a pair and I still couldn't find any I like, she decided to make me a deal (which worked very much in my favour) - she'd buy me the gorgeous tartan Dune platforms, if i found a pair of work shoes within the next half an hour. Perfect! Got the platforms and put a pair of 3inch black heals on order in Kurt Geiger for work. Then to top it all off, we fell in love with a bright floral mini dress in H&M, which she bought me, seem as it was only £19.99.

However, one thing that has really been playig on my mind today, is M&S. For years ow, we've been hearing about M&S' new look, with the press supposing they are now a "cool" brand. I've always dissagreed with this, claiming they are trying too hard to be young, and to target to a market which is way off their current consumers. But today I was actualy shocked, when models floated down the catwalk in some totally stunning clothes - from M&S! My favourite was this Peruna Coat, which I even went to try on, but unfortunately wasn't available in my size. Maybe I won't put M&S down so much in future!

Things to do and see...

2008-09-25T04:00:00.000-07:00

Day: Thursday. Activity: English essay (bleh), might go on a bit of a shopping spree later (the new Cabot Circus hopping extravaganza opens in my home town today ;]) Fags: 0. Alcohol intake: 0. Money spent: 0 (so far). Indulgence: I've been healthy today, lots of freshly squeezed orange juice! Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ub-Gvmtg1m8

So Basically I just want to enlighten y'all to what you should be doing this Autumn. Nothing will make rainy days more entertaining than the following (especially if you attend them in a fur trimmed Chloe trench and some Gucci biker boots)!

1. Film: Beautiful Loosers

Aaron Rose direct this documentary, which follows the lives and careers of a collective group of Do-it-yourself artists and designers who inadvertently affected the art world. This 90minuit film beautifully demonstrates the lives of modern artists in the 90's, making it one of the most gritty, indie documentary films to reach us for a long time. Anyone who is a fan of modern art should not miss this, and anyone who isn't, I would highly recommend watching it anyway - it is truly enlightening.

2. Exhibition: Cult of Denim

From October 15th - November 14th Selfridges unveils collaboration with Britain’s hottest talent, artist Stuart Semple, in a celebration of the most iconic and historical chapter of fashion: Cult Of Denim – a new collection of artworks on denim .A new collection of original works will be shown for sale in store from mid October alongside a series of specially created limited edition prints on denim, t-shirt graphics, 8 pairs of handpainted jeans, and a glowing diamond shaped installation. For those who love Stuart Semple' work as much as me, this will be a must see.

3. Shopping: Bristol Vintage Fashion Fair

For most Bristolians, this is a can't miss event. Coming around every few months, we cannot resist the vintage goodies at Edwin Dyson' fair. It's next coming around on the 12th of October (t the Anson Rooms on Queens rd, as per usual), with even more vintage lovelies than before. Expect up to 40 stalls of coats, gloves, hats, scarves, all bleedin' sorts of vintage treasures. It is love.

4. Film: Eight Miles High

Eight Miles High is the true story of a German model, Uschi Obermaier, whose lovers included Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Jimi Hendrix.

We Salute Sequins

2008-09-24T12:31:00.001-07:00

SEQUINS = LOVE

All above dresses are available from www.sequinqueen.com and are super sparkly and sexy! And tbh a bit of a bargain and all! ;]

The Best of London Fashion Week

2008-09-24T11:06:00.000-07:00

Giles Deacon sent an electric mix of futuristic fashion down the catwalk. This collaberation of Sophisticated Space-Age was by far one of the most innovative collections at London Fashion Week. Mostly in black and white with a few flashes of colour storming down the catwalk every so often, this is one show that definitely had impact!
The second I saw the snaps from Henry Holland's show, I was reminded why I'm in love with him and everything he does. There is not one item of clothing in this collection I wouldn't wear (surprising giving I'm quite often thinking the opposite about a lot of well esteemed designers shows!) So cute, so girly, so fresh and so summer! This is one collection that makes me desperate to start planning my Spring/Summer wardrobe already! :]
Luella's collection is another I can see myself in every item. It's so lady like and so Pretty Women (the book, not the film!). Once again it's patterns galor, but its not only the patterns that make these fabrics so beautiful - the colour pallet is delightfully summery and cute. Pleats and frills just add to the lady-like glamour!

Nylove

2008-09-24T10:29:00.000-07:00

I love love love Nylon (coolest online mag to grace our screens). It's my new bible, I will use it for all advise, life and fashion decisions. Join me?

Besides, who can't help but love the mag that created Miss Cory Kennedy!

Drama Junky

2008-09-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

Now, you can officially call me mental, 'cause it's official, I am! Why i it, when everything's going well, I hate it!? I think I'm a drama junky.
Let me (try to) explain. Girl likes boy. Girl thinks boy doesn't like girl. Girl is happy thinking he doesn't like her as girl can moan and get upset and generally be a moody, attention seeking bitch. Boy tells girl he does like girl. Girl is happy - for about 30minuts. Then girl gets bored. Girl doesn't like boy anymore.
Well, yea I'm sure you can guess who the moody attention seeking bitch is.
I have issues.
He's lovely.
Why does this not make me extremely, estactically happy.
Can someone please find me an egotistical, cruel, annoying, horrible guy instead of this Mr Perfect? Cause clearly it's doing nothing for me.

Converted :]

2008-09-24T09:29:00.000-07:00

Day: Wednesday. Activity: Beading a dress (my new masterpiece - I bought a vintage black velvet bodycon dress about a year ago and have been meaning to embellish it for ages now), not going to college (if your head felt like mine does now, you wouldn't either, possibly pulled a few too many all nighters in this past week or so and it is finally catching up with me!) Fags: 1. (Okay, so I told everyone I quit, and I fully intended on...but then my "emergency supply" became to tempting. Note to self: replace emergency pack for real emergencies.) Alcohol intake: None today :]. Money spent: Zilch! (and I still managed to get a gorg new belt, ribbed tights, copy of Loud and Quite and a new Urban Decay eyeliner - mother has finally learnt the point of the post-it note shopping lists on the fridge door ;]) Indulgence: Nothing (I've been pretty good today, although I suppose taking the day off wasn't that angelic.) Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AM6fx78dpuM

Okay, I used to hate RiverIsland. There's always been something about it that seemed so cheap. However, I can't deny it, their autumn/winter 08 collection has converted me! I'm officially in love with the chunky cardies, super cute (and oh so sex and the city) dresses and furry coats. You can definitely see a vintage inspiration going on there. Here are some of my favourites.

Topshop on top of the pattern craze!

2008-09-10T09:41:00.000-07:00

Day: Wednesday. Activity: Photographing Funfairs (art) ad being stupidly ill. (V bad, can't be ill, must work, must go to party on Saturday, must, must, must!) Fags: 1. (Very good, don't like smoking when I'm ill.) Alcohol intake: None. Money spent: £30ish (Broach I couldn't resist, plus fayre entry, plus medicine, plus lunch and three coffees) Indulgence: Hoige piece of cake at lunch. Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQRJvZBH1gw

Prints are everywhere atm, with the floral look fading out, it's all about less girly patterns and more punky patterns! Here are some of my faves!

Topshops Tartan Trends:

tips from Aggy, Alice and Behati and go for the Lumberjack meets Highland fling look!

Simple Stripes:

Made a stripey statement like Georgia and Aggy!

Animal Antics:

Get out your wild-side like Kate, Aggy and Georgia. Don't forget to add some animal attitude ;]!

Q&A

2008-09-10T04:44:00.001-07:00

Thanks for all the questions you sent me guys, there were some great ones, so here's a few I've answered for you!

Q. Are you a student / if not what's your job!?
A. I'm currently in my 2nd year of college, studying Art, English lit/lang and Textiles. And tbh, I love it!

Q. What did you wear today?
A. Vintage chiffon top (navy blue with tomatoes printed all over it - so cute!), brown and gold Piel Vacuno belt, dark skinny jeans, white daps and a red hoodie. Locket and pearls to accessorise!

Q. How do you manage to fit so much into your life - partying, shopping, making/designing clothes, art and writing this amazing blog!?
A. I guess it must sound like I do allot, but you haven't mentioned any of my "hungover days" or "lazing around doing nothing days" which generally occur 1-2times a week and are when do my recovering from over doing myself all week! As for day to day, I just avoid "lazy time", I know if I don't get that English essay done I won't be able to go to that party, so I just do it. Ad i suppose the designing, sewing, painting, writing, etc is what i do instead of watching TV or talking on msn!

Q. What do you choose first when getting ready, the clothes or the accessories/shoes?
A. Generally I choose clothes, normally a top/dress and then the rest revolves around that. However if I've just bought a new scarf / pair of shoes, and I'm desperate to wear them, I'll work an outfit around that.

Q. Do you want to work in fashion?
A. Definitely, I'm currently applying to art foundation courses, and once I've done one of them (providing I actually sort out my personal statement, etc and get onto one!) I want to apply for a degree course in womenswear design. Exciting stuff!

Q. Will you still have this blog in 5 years time? what will it be like?
A. I can't really see that far into the future, but I love writing bout fashion, and the world of Internet media is flourishing, so who knows - why not!? What it will be like, I don't know, though.

Q. What's the most expensive item of clothing you own?
A. I don't really go in for designer stuff, but I do have a Chilli Couture Jacket which was £245 and a pair of Kurt Geiger boots which were £190.

Q. All time favourite song?
A. Gotta love a bit of Johnny Cash. Hurt is beautiful and Rig of Fire for the memories.

Q. Best time of your life?
A. Reading Festival 2008. Without a doubt!

Q. Would you consider having "guest bloggers"?
A. Yes, if anyone's interested, let me know!

Q. What matters most to you, fashion or music?
A. Fashion always comes first, But I do love, love, love music!!

Q. The one thing no outfit is complete without?
A. Some sort of glitter/ sequins. I always wear at least a little bit ;].

I love you Irina!

2008-09-09T09:17:00.000-07:00

Day: Tuesday. Activity: College. (Textiles lesson followed by 4 hours worth of film watching - Titanic followed by Romeo and Juliet, and yes, I blubbed like a baby through them both - followed by English and Art. Less than productive. Fags: 0. (First day without a cigarette in about a month, but in all honesty, even a trip to Spar in the rain seems worth it for one right now - why did I decide today would be the day I wouldn't even keep an emergency fag on me!?) Alcohol intake: 0. (It's a Tuesday, duh!?) Money spent: £1.90 (Not bad! A bus ticket and 2 cookies.) Indulgence: Pink iced doughnut with sprinkles. (Okay, I know you're judging me - two cookies and a doughnut, but I got the doughnut for free, so it doesn't count, right!? Plus it had sprinkles!!) Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AuK2A1ZqoWs&feature=related

Irina Lazareanu is our current girl of the month, and I don't think I need to explain why!
Just take a look at these fab outfits we've seen her in as of lately. To be quite frank, we couldn't be more jealous - or more desperate to copy them! So, here's how...

Co-ordinated Couples

2008-08-18T05:37:00.000-07:00

Day: Monday. Activity: Painting of Paris (Love, love, love it!) Fags: 5. (not too bad!) Alcohol intake: 0 units. Money spent: £23. (New oil paints and brushes) Indulgence: Cream cheese bagel. Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8VfdaY8xNs

The latest trend in the celeb world seems to be couples with matching styles, and we have to say it is just oh-so-cute! (Remember girls, you don't have to dump your lad for a stylish guy, you just need to dump his wardrobe for a stylish one!) Just take a look at Mark Ronson and Daisy Lowe. Now, we've all been in love with these two from the start, but the second we heard about them dating we fell in love all over again. There are few better suited couples on the scene at the moment - and no wonder, these guys are absolutely puurfect! So what if he's 13 years older? He's a hottie! And not only that, but he's a family guy too, he recently agreed to play at Daisy's mum's wedding! Com'on girls, you wouldn't say no! They met at The Brits earlier this year and immediately fell in love.

Versatility...

2008-08-17T06:47:00.000-07:00

Day: Sunday. Activity: Shockingly not hungover therefore cracking on with that skirt. Fags: 14. (I'll cut down soon!) Alcohol intake: Last night, about 3 units. Today, none :]. Money spent: £35. (Brunch, fags and new brown leather belt!) Indulgence: Brunch at Browns. (Yuumm.) Listening to: See below.

Like my fashion, I like variation when it comes to music. Most people know me as the kind of girl who listens to every new band before anyone else has heard of them, but drops them in a flash for the next new act, who in tern will be disregarded too.
But, today I am going to put my case forward that there is so much more to my music taste than that. I'm not the kind of person who only likes "cool" music - I don't follow a style or feel the need to hate every song in the chart because it's too "commercialised" (after all there's a reason they got into the chart, too many people dismiss music as being "catchy but talentless" - but does it not take talent to create something catchy? Maybe "Girls Aloud" aren't the most talented singers about, but who hasn't found themselves humming "I Don't Speak French" as they wonder around Karen Miller!? As much as we hate to admit it, we love a bit of pop every once in a while - the name's just a give away!)
My music taste ranges from Johnny Cash to Pull Tiger Tail to Lilly Allen! Lets face it, however hard these culture driven kids may try, no-one ants to listen to the same kind of music 24/7. Just like no-one wants to wear the same label head to toe, or watch the same TV show everyday (with the exception of Sex and the City, of coarse!)
So, here I am about to promote my new music fix. Juggling 1million different styles of music for 1million different moods isn't easy to say the least, so what could be more perfect than a fabulously talented band that have music for every occasion!? I've been a fan of Atmosphere for a while now, but I only recently realised how often I find them blaring from my speakers. When getting ready for a big night out, nothing gets me in the mood more than dancing around my room (normally with a different heel on each foot and about 20 different dresses in my arms) to "You" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCywipbWYcM) - the perfect chill-out-dance track to take away the stress of the slight possibility someone else will wear the same dress as you. It has never failed to put a smile on my face. And for heart-warming tracks, they've hit the nail on the head with "Yesterday" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFakOHRED_w&feature=related) - a charming love song with a twist (great for making you put things in perspective, as what seems like a song about longing for an ex-lover turn out to be about a diseased father - bet you've stopped thinking about that looser that left you now!) that makes you want to cry smile and laugh at the same time!
Well, if I haven't converted you to Atmosphere yet, then I don't think I ever will, so check out these beauties instead!
1. Teardrops - The XX
2. Mary Jane - Pull Tiger Tail
3. Sideways Here We Come - Die! Die! Die!
4. Coffee and Cigarettes - Michelle Featherstone
5. In The City - Goodshoes

Love, lust or lonliness?

2008-08-16T11:57:00.000-07:00

Here's my issue this week (well, it's not something that came about this week, or will go away at the end of it), perfect girls. I've never believed that one girl could have all the qualities a guy looks for, until recently.
Yes, I am talking about one girl in particular, and I know her life probably isn't as perfect as it seems, but that's not the issue I'm addressing - I'm saying this girl is absolutely perfect for the guy I like. And he knows it, clearly, as they dated for 6months. So, someone please tell me how to cope being compared to the guys ideal girl!?
She's gorgeous - a complete knock-out - she's clever, she's rich, she's funny, she's well-behaved and most of all, she's just oh so nice. And when compared to her, the things I like about myself suddenly seem like things I should be trying to change. I may be a pretty, sexy girl, but I'm no way near her level in the brains department, I don't live in a mansion with a perfect family, I'm badly-behaved, recluse, and if we're honest, I'm not always that "nice".
Before it's been the spontaneous, sexy, dangerous side of me that's attracted men, but now I'm being judged for the Bellini/Marlboro light in my hand. And who can blame him - when sat in between me and "Miss Perfect" why would he choose to listen to my drunken flirty small talk when he could be having an intellectual conversation with an equally beautiful girl.
He says he doesn't want to get back together with her as she's too busy with her work and family for a relationship - but it's quite clear he's still in love with her, and how does the new far-from-perfect girl even think about competing with this "perfect" girl, who he has a deep meaningful connection with.
It's just got me thinking, am i destined to always be the "go-between-girl"? The one who is good for a bit of fun, to rebound off an ex, before finding the next "Miss Perfect" to fall in love with. And if I don't want to be seen as this girl anymore, does that mean I have to completely change who I am? Stop the partying, the drinking, the smoking, the lads and the general fun? Well, if it does then I guess I'm the "go-between-girl", because I'm not giving up my fun for a guy, who's not even that exciting (and I've had cuter, to be honest!)

What do you think of...

2008-08-16T11:48:00.000-07:00

The latest Gothic style? Personally, I love it, but I've always been a bit of a bad girl, if we're honest.
Every girl will agree, there's nothing sexier or more flattering than black - why else would "the little black dress" have been an essential item of any woman's wardrobe for as long a we can remember!?
Sure, it's not the only sexily seductive look - but bright red isn't very forgiving and requires a lot of confidence. And that's the great thing about black, it's so flattering and slimming it makes you feel confident. Plus the looks you'll get from the lads in this seasons fabulous Gothic look will double your confidence instantly!
Here are some of my favourites, from high end to high street - this look is everywhere! So, whatever your price range, get yourself looking like a (kinky) dark goddess!

So...

2008-08-16T08:07:00.000-07:00

Day: Saturday Activity: Thrift store shopping, attempting to do the pleates on the skirt I'm making. (going badly, very badly!) Fags: 17. (Awful :[.) Alcohol intake: Last night, far too much. Today, 1 unit. (Pre outing drinks while writing a blog post and dancing in my underwear - I think so!) Money spent: £85. (Money I don't have, but spent on lovely things - pale denim high waisted shorts, cream vintage blouse, oyster vintage across-body bag, fags and a bottle of wine.) Indulgence: Fags, wine, cream cake at lunch. Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58sLe738L8w (Amazing remix. Oh come on - I did mention the nderwear dancing!)

All conclusions reached in the last post have...well, lets just say "not gone to plan" haha. Ah well, I'll let you know when I get some self-control.

On a personal note...

2008-08-10T05:29:00.000-07:00

Day: Sunday. Activity: See below! Fags: 0! Alcohol intake: 0! Money spent: 0! Indulgence: Sex and the city, ice cream and coffee. Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yV9f4w9SXEc

After watching 6 episodes straight of Sex and the City (while trying to ward off the hangover cause by 7days of drinking - sun, sea, sand and margaritas, although fun do not make for a relaxing holiday) I have managed to resist giving into the two habits Sex and the City always triggers - smoking and shoe shopping.

After Carries tenth Marlboro light in one episode and her talk of "the few good looking, single, male, smokers left in the world" I realised how pathetic and how "90's" the whole image was. As much as I love lighting up, and I love a hot guy with a fag in his hand (yes, I do have a thing for "bad boys" as it happens), it is a fact of life that a smoker cannot date a non-smoker. And that's a fact that really limits your options. Having heard in the past lines like "Sorry, I really like you, I just don't like the smoking" I've previously laughed them off - how could someone be so pathetic to give up on someone they like because of a bad habbit! But, maybe it's fair enough, and maybe I'm sacrifising longe term happiness for a short term fix? So, here's the plan; stop smoking untill October the 10th (2months time) and if nothings changed I'll return to my quick fix, but if things are looking up, I'll put it down to the smoking and keep off 'em. Sound like a plan?

As for the shoe shopping, as I noted Samantha's odd looking wedges, I realised this was something else that should be left in the 90's. The obsessive amounts of outfit changes also made me think about the 30+ pairs of shoes hidden all around my flat. Maybe if I was SJP and needed 20 outfits per episode there'd be a reason for them, but on days like today I haven't even got out of my PJ's. Maybe I should stop pretending I live a Sex and the City lifestyle and stop wearing stiletos to the pub!?

So, for today I feel I have achieved a lot - not only have I survived an appalling hangover, I have done it without smoking or shopping (lets just forget about the 20+ cups of coffee and tub of Ben and Jerry's!)

Agy's Bag-y!

2008-07-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

That's right, admit it, we are all going CRAZY for the new Chanel Union Jack quilted bag. Not only is it deliously Great Brittania, but it also appears to be permnently attached to our favourite girlies arm!

Yep, Agy certainly loves her new arm candy, and who can lame her! If we had a gem like this, it wouldn't leave our sight!

Trends for Aut/Wint #2 Cocktails, anyone!?

2008-07-27T06:27:00.000-07:00

Day: Sunday. Activity: Reminiscing last nights dramas. (To worn out from the last two nights to do anything too productive - yes, I'm a lazy sh*t.) Fags: 15. (Bad, very bad.) Alcohol intake: Last night, completely lost count! (Too many, in other words) Today, none. Money spent: None! Indulgence: All those fags!? Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9B5-AO0h60 (I AM addicted to electric pulses ;].)

Yes, with the release of Sex and the City, everyone is going crazy over their drinks, but even more so over the dresses they wear while ordering (or in true Sex and the City style, having them ordered for you) their drinks.

All our fave girls are getting out their corseted frills and slinging on a pair of stilettos. Whether you want to go for something dark and sexy, like Agy and Portia, or something girly and colourful like Alexa, everyone loves a prom dress!

My personal favourite from the high street is this Topshop fittie! It really does rival the bright minis of the catwalk, and with style this cute, no-one will know whether it' a Giambattista Valli creation or a high street bargain!

And then, in true catwalk style, copy Armadi Basi's models by adding clashing accessories for a fabulously designer look!

How to...

2008-07-26T10:18:00.000-07:00

...Get that bad girl image without breaking the bank?

So, you want to do like Agy (and pretty mcuh everyone else we're loving at the moment - Daisy, Lilly, Kate, Peaches, Pixie, Alexa, etc.) and have a bit of a reblious moment, but aren't sure you have the same budget as thse A-listers? Well, lets take a look at what we can get on the high street.

For indie street looks the first place I always look is Topshop. It's edgy English style at it's best and never lets us down! So, for those must have skinnies lets see what wonders they've got this month!
Whether you're daring enough to go for animal print leggings and extra long leathers or would rather stick with something less OTT, like these amazing highwaisted skinnies, there's something out there for you (and at these prices, you could even afford to buy them all)!

The next key item has got to be a pretty blouse with a punky twist. Wear tucked into your skinnies with a few accessorises and you've got Agy's look for much, much less!

Trends for Aut/Wint #1 Bad Ass!

2008-07-26T09:24:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's right! It's time to revel in rebellion, with this seasons Bad Girl look.

Here I'm talking style that oozes attitude - think Agyness Deyn on the Rodarte catwalk, Luella's black and gold mini and Emma Cook's lacy black tights. It's all over the catwalks, and yes, there is something hypnotizingly seductive about Lilly Donaldson storming down the runway in tiny tartan dress and big black boots - but, lets be honest, if we walked down Fulham road dressed like that, we'd probably get more laughs than wolf-whistles! So, how exactly do you show off your dark side during the daylight? Well, lets turn to the experts for advice. Good ol' Agy not only rocks this look on the catwalk, she manages to make it look effortlessly cool while she wonders around LDN - Oh Agy, how we envy your style!She's hit the nail on the head here, so to speak. Skinny jeans, with the top tucked in, leather jacket and matching point ankle boots, bright red shirt with a cheeky polka dot pattern - all set off with bright white accesories to give it some added edge! Miss Deyn has aced yet another fashion class!

The Beginning of Wisdom...

2008-07-26T09:05:00.000-07:00

Day: Saturday. Activity: Recovering from the hangover from hell, and starting this blog! Fags: 4. (not bad at all) Alcohol intake: Lastnight, about 6 units. Today, none (but I'm due to leave for a house party in a couple of hours, so that won't be true by tomorrow morning.) Money spent: £15 (pretty good going - fags, Vogue and credit.) Indulgence: Vogue (as much as it is a nescesitiy, I also cannot afford it, so from now on it's going on my indulgence list!) Listening to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqM6oLM63YE

AS my first post on the new blog, I could spend a few paragraphs introducing myself and what I'm all about. But I won't - for one it's not necessary, secondly it would just bore you and thirdly, I'm more excited about actually starting it than writing this nonsense.(Although, I suppose in writing all of the above, this included, I have bored you just about as much - and wasted as much time - as if I had written an introduction. So, for the record I do know I'm off to a badly thought out start!).Anyway, just to make it clear, my intentions for this blog are to tingle your taste buds, not only with the latest on the fashion scene, but also to chuck in a bit of music, literature and art for seasoning. Enjoy.