emmawashere

I feels bad... and I'm lookin' for a kissssss

2011-11-30T22:55:00.030Z

Hey, thought I better post once more before November is out. God, December already... and no, the flat hunt hasn't moved on much, though we do have a viewing on Tuesday so fingers crossed! Rather, I've been spending all my free time having fun and seeing good people; anything other than actually flat hunt, y'know? (you do it to yourself, you do, and that's what really huuurts)

Anyway, I met up with my two best friends forever and ever no exceptions on Saturday and, as you may have guessed from the visual clue, saw the wonderful Noel Fielding rocking a yellow jumpsuit in Soho's Golden Square. He was there with Dave Brown AKA Bollo, painting, meeting fans, and signing copies of his new book; we didn't stick around long, though - just nosied about, took a couple of photographs and paid through the nose for three coffees at a nearby cafe.

Later that evening we went to James Rhode's concert at Southbank which I was fortunate enough to have free tickets to and oh, it was lovely. Honestly, he's a marvel with a 120k piano, I urge you - URGE you! - to go see him if you can. Derren Brown was there, and he is, I have to say, a very sweet and absolutely lovely chap. Though that may just be the mind manipulation talking. If you follow me on plug~Twitter~plug then you're probably aware that Benedict Cumberbatch was there too, fresh off a motorbike. Yeah... I've also since heard that Stephen Fry was about the place as well, though can't say I saw him. God, surely there's a rule about so many cool people being in one place?

Anyway, Sunday was a bit more relaxed: lie-in, click around on Gumtree for a bit, chips down The Steeles and then Rich Fulcher and The Willmingtons doing a bit o' improv at the Willmington Arms!

And still I wonder why we haven't found a flat.

we are the mods, we are the mods, we are, we are, we are the mods!

2011-11-24T14:23:00.001Z

Yeah, sorry about the MySpace style 'photo-taken-in-mirror' shots! Unfortunately I do not have have a cool photographer boyfriend, a tripod or even a decent flat surface above waist level, so mirror shots will just have to do until that situation is rectified.

Anyway, back to the point, that's my new dress; what do ya think? It's from Topshop, cost £45.00 (£5 off with Nadia's student discount, SCORE!!!) and is probably the most flattering thing in my ENTIRE wardrobe, no joke. It's got that nice skater shape without the horrible clingy material and the black stripe down the middle just SHRINKS you. SHRINKS! Anyone else got an item of clothing that just works?

Aside from dress buying, what else have I been doing recently? Something a little less superficial, prehaps? No, not really. Aside from flat hunting and working (shoot me), I've met up with some (ex)potential housemates who turned out to be AWFUL (but hilarious), met with the lovely Daniela from Couture & Crumpets who introduced me to proper dirty American food at The Diner in Soho, got a rubbish tweet retweeted 100+ times (ONE HUNDRED PLUS TIMES!), got involved with my mum's new obsession "shabby chic", re-watched Quadrophenia and had my debut viewing of Up! If you follow me on Twitter then you're probably also aware that I cried (though not as much as I did when I saw Toy Story 3), ten minutes in, right on cue. God, saddest opening ten minutes ever.

Anyway, hope you're all alright! I am hoping to get back into the swing of blogging regularly again soon, just been quite with the flat hunting (moving very slowly) and the working (even slower) and the sleeping... (slowest)

Until next time.

I'm not saying I'll be true, but I'll try.

2011-11-02T12:45:00.015Z

GOD, finding a reasonably priced two-bedroom flat to rent in North London is like looking for a needle in a haystack... BLOODY HARD, so I'm taking a break from Gumtree and Zoopla to blog (hurrah!) and listen to some Nico.

I'm not saying I'll be sorry

For all the things that I might say that make you cry

I can't say I'll always do the things you want me to

I'm not saying I'll be true but I'll try

Nico was a beautiful German singer, model and artist known mainly for her work with The Velvet Underground (femme fatale, i'll be your mirror, all tomorrow's parties) and for being an Andy Warhol Muse. Unsurprisingly her talent and beauty never just inspired good old Andy though - over the years she's also inspired the creativity of Bob Dylan, Ernest Hemmingway, Morrissey, Patti Smith, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Bjork and Jean Baudrillad.

source

Despite relatively large success and a heroin addiction spanning over fifteen years, Nico died the surprisingly un-rock 'n' roll death of cerebral hemorrhage caused by a bicycle accident in Ibiza in 1988. Her last recorded song was "Your Kisses Burn", a duet with Marc Almond, though I can't seem to find it anywhere...

What are you listening to/watching at the moment? Link me up. #procrastination

GUESS WHO'S BACK!

2011-10-28T20:01:00.014+01:00

ME! Maybe. Hello! Yeah, I think I'm ready to get back into things again. Take me back?

So what have I been doing this past month? WELL, I started the dreaded process of flat hunting, have attended many 21st birthdays (there must have been something in the Bournemouth water January 1990 ;)), spent too much money, (unsuccessfully) confronted the biggest spider I've ever seen, signed my first autograph (don't ask) and pulled my first pint!

Oh yeah, did a few nights down the O2, one of which included club night "Bedlam" - eight hours of idiots leaning over the bar shoving me fistfuls of whatever left over shrapnel they can find in a desperate bid for one more drink, whilst all the while the constant beat of shitty drum 'n' bass plays in the background.

The whole night had a bit of a Nathan Barley "Rise of The Idiots" feel to it.

...Despite how awful I'm making it sound, though, it wasn't actually too bad. The night went pretty quick and I got a few tips so who really cares, only need to do a couple of them a month and then the rest of the time I can get on the good gigs, like BOWLING FOR SOUP. #1989

What else? Oh, I bought myself a new bag. ;)

It's great, like an old doctors bag and holds just as much as Mary Poppins'. The only downside of the thing is that the useless arm strap that came inside it doesn't actually attach to anything. Now I'm aware of fake pockets and fake zips and all that crap ("so that's the way it is? let's just put a zip here, a swastika there. who knows what these things once stood for? who the hell even cares?") but a fake arm strap? Surely not. Took it into my local Topshop and got told that apparently it's a fault with all the bags, that they're getting in touch with head office about it and that I could email customer services if I liked.

...effort! Good job I like the bag with just the handles.

So how have you guys been? I've missed you!

welcome to the university of hard knocks, baby!

2011-10-01T14:43:00.019+01:00

Hello. Well! Um. Bit awkward this, isn't it? I feel like my last post is the equivalent of a bit of a rubbish date and my prolonged absence since has been the no post-date phone call...

I really really really hate these times where I feel all dull and uninspired and put off posting (this alone feels like an effort right now) for yonks but sadly I'm just not feeling very "bloggy" at the moment. It's annoying but you know how it is; just waiting it out and hoping it'll pass.

Anyway, despite the sudden laziness in blogging I've actually been pretty busy. I've worked quite a lot and last week I was back in London seeing friends and watching the brilliant comedian Paul Foot perform at the Soho Theatre. Hahaha. Oh god, I ADORE this man. I think he's hilarious. You must check him out if you've not heard of him before. Some say he's an "acquired taste" but pah, whatevs - I say I've got good taste and that's all you really need to go on. ;)

Paul @ Soho Theatre

I also watched Being John Malkovich for the first time ever (bit late), grabbed a Greek Street curry, did the Warren Street walk, revisited my favourite cafe-cum-restaurant Mildred's and watched Marcus Foster perform a lovely acoustic gig at Rough Trade; I'd never really heard of him before but he was brilliant! Genuine talent.

Anyway, yeah. I am alive and I am well and I hope you lot are ok!

How does it feel to be one of the beautiful people?

2011-09-19T22:31:00.010+01:00

Hello! Sorry for the rather long delay in blogging, haven't meant to abandon you all but my mind has been a little elsewhere recently. Normal service will resume soon, I promise.

Anyway! If you've been following me on Twitter you'll probably know that I recently started some casual work with the O2 Academy, so that's something a bit new and exciting. I've never actually done any sort of bar work before this (gimme tips!) (pun intended); my first night simply saw me manning the (very quiet) cloakroom. Yeah, it appears it's still too warm for outerwear so, to be honest, I was pretty much paid to tweet, eat free snacks and listen to real life Gary Numan! Not a bad result, really... I'll let you know how my next shift goes.

I've also been pretty busy seeing family down from Scotland, watching Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (amazing, i'll forever be dreaming of espionage cigarettes and nice suits), selling things junk on eBay and reading Caitlin Moran's brilliant 'How To Be a Woman'.

Ok, so they're not great reasons for blogging abandonment, but I've also been dealing with EVERY PERSON I LOVE (apart from me) leaving and heading back to London. #overdramatic

Speaking of, any of you lovely lot thinking of moving to North London at all in the next few months?

I know we've all seen 'em, but...

2011-09-08T11:57:00.000+01:00

It doesn't hurt to see them again. #amazing

Just put your hands up, it's a raid

2011-09-05T20:16:00.041+01:00

Evening! Thought I'd better do a proper post (or something like it) before I get labelled a bad blogger ;)

Can't say much is happening in my life at the moment, but then that's almost a relief after the past few weeks. Currently the most interesting things I've done since getting back from Edinburgh is recover, sell my Bestival ticket (boo), buy a cross-trainer from Gumtree (the elliptical died a horrible death, let's not talk about it), completely clear out my wardrobe (so refreshing), re-watch series 1 of The Office (still brilliant) and buy a new top (check the photographs, yo!) Oh yeah. It's Topshop, £32.00 and the first item of clothing I've bought in MONTHS, Moz t-shirt aside. Yeah, I've not been shopping in absolutely ages and only just seemed to notice; I'm a pretty shit girl really, aren't I?

Never fear though, I'll rectify this soon! After all, gotta replace all the things I've cleared out...

SOLD selling: 1x Bestival Ticket

2011-09-02T14:49:00.002+01:00

Unfortunately due to a change in circumstances I'm now selling my Bestival ticket (sob!); just wondering whether anyone here is interested before I throw it to eBay? Full weekend ticket with camping and I'm not looking for a profit, just the standard face-value £170.00 and p&p.

If you're interested just send an email to emmawashereblog(at)gmail.com.

That's all from me for now. Sorry about the break in blogging; normal service will resume soon! (still sort of settling back into normal life #edinburghwithdrawals)

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival (in photographs)

2011-08-26T17:04:00.014+01:00

Such such such a brilliant week! Inevitably I am now suffering from severe Fringe withdrawals (ED-HEAD), a God awful cold (FRINGE-FLU) and what can only be described as jet-lag (So I may have only flown an hour each way but one week of solid drinking, a crap diet (battered mars bar, anyone?) and only 35 hours sleep can produce the very same effects!) but it has been completely worth it and I'd do it all again, I tell you! I will, in fact. Bring on August 2012. Who's in? ;)

Favourite acts included The Boy With Tape On His Face, Frisky and Mannish, Paul Foot, Russell Kane and The Cambridge Footlights. Absolute genius, all of them - go see if you can! Really.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going back to bed.

Ed Fringe

2011-08-18T22:02:00.001+01:00

source

Just a quick note to say I'm away at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival at the moment, so I won't be blogging for a good few days. Feel free to follow me on Twitter if you so wish!

Sherlock: Behind the Scenes

2011-08-14T18:46:00.025+01:00

Sherlock, Series 2. Oh yes, it's happening and last Monday I managed to get a small behind-the-scenes peek at filming.

Upon arrival to North Gower Street I found myself greeted by the very interesting sight of Benedict Cumberbatch (spell-check will never accept it) draped in a white sheet, little to no other clothing on. Oh yes. ;) Keeping this as "spoiler-free" as possible though, I shan't reveal any more... Rather, much of the day consisted of takes and retakes and waiting around between takes. Ah, show business! It was amazing to see how much effort goes into such little footage, though, and watching Benedict and Martin become Sherlock and John was a truly wonderful thing to witness.

Despite not sticking around until the bitter end, highlights included Benedict zooming up and down Baker Street on his camera dolly (not for filming, mind; he's just one of those divas who refuse to walk anywhere), 221B/automobiles constantly locking Martin out and... er, lollipops.

The only disruption was a man who pulled up in his car and refused to move it, despite the road being closed for filming. It wouldn't have been bad but he was an absolute knob about it. I couldn't help but think how Sherlock would have ripped him to pieces...

"...the way you look, the way you walk, says wanker. You're in your late twenties, fairly well-off by the looks of things, run your own business-- oh don't look at me like that, it's obvious from the obnoxious logo on the side of your car. Really, is it any wonder the film crew don't want it on set? Speaking of the car, it's very flash, isn't it? You know what they say about men who drive flash cars..." ;)

Aside from that, the shoot ran smoothly and both cast and crew were truly accommodating to locals and fans and vice versa. A successful day for all really, and so fun to be a part of it.

So there you have it, my nerdy peek at Sherlock S2! I think I speak for everyone when I say it's going to be an absolute blinder.

How To: Newspaper Nails

2011-08-11T19:00:00.001+01:00

So I shared a quick photograph of my snazzy newspaper nails on Twitter today and had a few people asking how I did it...

1. Paint nails white and allow to dry.

2. Tear a piece of newspaper, place it upon the nail.

3. Take a cotton wool pad soaked in nail varnish remover (or vodka...) and gently press it upon the newspaper.

4. After a few moments remove the cotton pad and paper; the print should be transferred.

5. Repeat, repeat, repeat, new pieces of newspaper each time.

6. Allow to dry and seal it with some clear nail varnish.

There you go; easy!

Morrissey, Brixton Academy, 07/08/11

2011-08-09T20:54:00.021+01:00

If you've been following my Twitter then you're probably quite aware of my recent action-packed couple of days (If you haven't, then get on it. ;))

Day one: Morrissey, Brixton. First off, £9.10 for two pints of cider is a rip and I'm a mug. Yeah, so not the most typical start to a "review" but I'm still grieving for my money! Clawed back a small victory in convincing the merchandisers to swap the XL t-shirt I bought last month for a Medium (har har har oh yeah, forever beating the system!) but still. #skint

Anyway, the gig! Wonderful atmosphere and Moz was on top Moz-form ("Do you really think Cameron's ever been to Tottenham? I don't think so.") The set was full of favourites and I'm pleased to finally say I've heard Speedway and it was brilliant. Won't lie, the ridiculously long pause towards the end was excruciatingly tense, and for one minute I genuinely thought he might have just cut it but oh no, Moz didn't let me down - the music came back in full force and ha, amazing!

Other highlights were I Know It's Over was (beautiful) and Everyday Is Like Sunday (audience singing goose-bumps). We were also privy to a new song called Art-Hounds ("Spelt Art HYPHEN Hounds; Hounds as in Baskerville, Art as in Oscar Wilde.") which was warmly received.

Unfortunately I somehow deleted pretty much everything on my camera pre-encore. Still not sure how I managed that one but I've got a feeling it may have had something to do with the German language setting... schwachsinnige! Proceeded to spend the resulting amount of unused memory on photographs of the Morrissey look-alike next to me.

Uncanny.

Aside from that little mishap, everything was brilliant and we thankfully managed to leave Brixton without any problems relating to the riots. Speaking of, really hope everyone is ok - stay safe, guys! :(

Day two: Behind the scenes of Sherlock. Post soon.

Setlist:

I Want The One I Can't Have / Irish Blood, English Heart / You're The One For Me, Fatty / You Have Killed Me / Scandinavia / Ouija Board, Ouija Board / Black Cloud / People Are The Same Everwhere / Alma Matters / Action Is My Middle Name / Speedway / Satellite Of Love / I Know It's Over / Everyday Is Like Sunday / There Is A Light That Never Goes Out / I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris / Art-Hounds / Meat is Murder // First Of The Gang To Die

"You don't have to say you love me..."

To pretend to be happy could only be idiocy

2011-08-06T15:28:00.023+01:00

dress: topshop sale. oh, the irony.

Bit of a cheat - didn't actually take these photographs today, but I am wearing this.

Today has been strange... got a call from Bournemouth Topshop about going for a "Top Level Supervisor" job (!) and had to turn them down. Didn't really want to, but obviously they're looking for someone with long-term commitment and I just can't offer that. #thatswhatshesaid. Originally I applied for the sales assistant role, a job I wouldn't have minded kicking in when London knocked again, but the thought of them possibly training me for a proper, permanent position - getting me all supervised up and then dropping them is a bit too awkward. Kind of left me kicking myself and my plans a bit, but I've got faith it'll all work out for the best. Started looking straight at London now - less likely to end up letting anyone down and more likely to get me into a nice place.

It's like the Lucy in Disguise moment all over again; I have the worst luck with good jobs!

...but yeah, everything happens for a reason, right! They did tell me to let them know if plans change, haha. And besides, I've got Moz to sing my sorrows tomorrow night; maybe life isn't so unfair.

Orla Kiely AW11

2011-08-04T17:54:00.007+01:00

Orla Kiely Short Film from Dolce Films

Ok, really needing those get-rich-quick schemes, guys! This may be my favourite collection ever.

Divezes, Wiltshire

2011-08-02T12:03:00.016+01:00

There we go, rest your scrolling finger ;) I didn't mean to go all photo heavy on you but I went for a picnic (under a bridge) in Wiltshire's Divezes yesterday and it's such a picturesque sort of place I couldn't help but snap everything.

I don't know what it is about canal boats (suspect it may have something to do with my childhood obsession with Rosie and Jim...) (speaking of tv shows, warning: another Peep Show reference today, I can only apologise) but I've always loved them. Not sure I'd want to live on one, the novelty of it would probably wear off after about a week, but I'd love one for little (canal pub-crawling/cruising) holidays.

Jez: Come on, let's max out the engine a bit, tear it up!
Mark: Actually this is almost top speed.
Jez: What if we hit trouble?
Mark: I don't think we're going to hit trouble on the Shropshire Union Canal, Jeremy.
Jez: Right, but this is just it? This is totally it? There's not gonna be any waves or mad shit?
Mark: No.
Jez: Can I water-ski off the back?
Mark: You're very welcome to try!
Jez: Jesus. Well, let's stop here then and go for a drink.
Mark: Jez, it's 10 in the morning!
source: that episode
Thanks for all the good lucks on my last post. No word on the job front just yet but I've got quite a lot to keep me occupied with Morrissey on Sunday and then Edinburgh Fringe from the 16th. Exciting! Can't believe we're into August already.

Stretch out and wait

2011-07-30T18:48:00.001+01:00

CV out; let the offers roll in!

(failing that, get rich quick plans (good ones - no how much washing-up do you think you could you do without any washing-up liquid? schemes) on a postcard, please.)

And the winner is...

2011-07-27T19:18:00.001+01:00

Katrina!

Congratulations! :) Sorry it's taken a little while to announce. Thanks to everyone who followed, tweeted and linked - I'll be holding another giveaway soon so watch out for that. x

Sherlock plug: Ep 2 tonight; 8.30pm, BBC1. ;)

Just so ya know...

2011-07-22T15:24:00.009+01:00

My 500+ giveaway ends tonight, so get going if you want to be entered!

Also, Mozza tickets arrived today... I'm not sure, but going by the 'Ticket No Gas: 1', 'Ticket No Gas: 2' and 'Ticket No Gas 3', I think we may have got the first three tickets? Ha!

Not got a lot planned for today. At the moment I'm just listening to some Laura Marling and updating my CV (~soothing) - been thinking of getting onto temping, what with permanent jobs being so hard to come by and wanting a bit of flexibility for summer plans! Never done it before, though, so aside from hearing some horror stories I'm not entirely sure what to expect...

Anyone doing any temping at the moment? How are you finding it? Obviously it's a different experience for everyone, but share; I'm interested!

If you're gonna try and walk on water, make sure you wear your comfortable shoes.

2011-07-20T17:09:00.033+01:00

Argh! How nice are these? Just one week into my "no spending, more saving" plan and temptation has hit in the form of these £32 Vatican Loafers. Typical. I've seen similar style ones in a couple of charity shops before (let's not lie, they are quite old ladyish), but they've never been quite right (plus I've always felt a bit funny about properly used second-hand shoes) so I've always managed to resist...

Help.

P.S. UK readers: the first series of Sherlock (3 eps) is being repeated on BBC1 over the next couple of weeks; first episode TONIGHT, 8.30pm. I INSIST you watch. #plug

~~Only TWO days left to enter my 500+ giveaway; enter here.~~

Sunday Sunday

2011-07-17T18:17:00.002+01:00

Look what I did!

Yeah, so they're nowhere near as good as Gem's but hey-ho. Practise makes perfect, innit, and I am still unemployed, so... ;)

Anyway, this post wasn't originally intended for showing you my nails, but rather just a quick one to say thanks for the comments on my last post! It's so nice that people have stuck by this blog regardless of how crap I can be at keeping it updated (sorry guys), so thank you!

And don't worry, it'll be worth it, I'm gonna UP my blogging game from here on. Hold on in there.

~~P.S. Only 5 days left to enter my 500+ followers competition! If you haven't entered, do so here.~~

circusbox emmawashere is one year old!

2011-07-15T14:13:00.022+01:00

Yes, you've read right - it's my blog's first birthday today! To mark the occasion, I've made a few changes on here; after a year of writing under the blog name "circusbox" (a name created by myself and my best friend Emily), I've decided to switch to the name "emmawashere" (check the new header, yo)

Don't get me wrong, this name switch isn't due to me no longer liking the name circusbox or anything like that, but Emily and I want to use the name for it's original purpose now - an exciting project that has little to do with my blog.

The name "emmawashere" (said "emma was here" not "emma wash 'ere", jokers!) is a name that I have used for many, many years (anyone remember myspace?), and is one that I still use today for sites such as twitter and youtube, so now I feel it only appropriate that I use it for my personal blog too.

To cement this change, I've bought a .com. (Happy Birthday, blog!), so yeah. I'MMA DOT COM!

If you've been kind enough to list me in any of your "blog rolls" (sounds far too much like bog roll for my liking), links etc, I'd really appreciate it if you could make the change of names too. My blog email address has also changed to emmawashereblog(at)gmail.com, so make sure to send any future emails that way!

I never really thought I'd make a year (it's rare that i ever stick with anything), let alone make so many followers along the way, so thanks for all the support, you guys really are lovely.

P.S. Thought I better mention this before someone notices and ribs me for it! The photographs are flipped because I'm an idiot who drew the '1' the opposite way round because I thought the webcam would reverse it. You know, like mirrors do... it didn't.

P.P.S. I posted this at 2pm and it's only just started appearing in people's feeds now (8pm!) - sorry about that, it's because of the dot com transition; should sort itself out soon. Same with my Google followers!

Tell you what, this crack is really moreish.

2011-07-13T19:35:00.004+01:00

Lina Chiffon Dress by Jones and Jones, £80.00
Hermes Ballet Pumps, £530.00
Chanel Vintage Flower Necklace, £527.00
Guerlain Liquid Eyeliner, £20.00
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick Pearl, £7.99

It's really quite disturbing how much daytime telly I've watched this week! What with The Hotel Inspector, The Restaurant Inspector, Country House Rescue, Come Dine with Me, Coach Trip, Four in a Bed, Four Rooms (THE LIST GOES ON), you'd think Channel 4 didn't want me to have a life. Thankfully I spotted the signs of addiction early and have managed to nip this thing in the bud - when you realise you're watching an episode of Jeremy Kyle titled "What Happened On The Horse With The Egyptian?", you know things have got to change.

It's time to find a job.

It was fun while it lasted, but I need something to 1) to stop me from watching this rubbish, 2) to give me some money for Edinburgh/Bestival and 3) to help fund the big move back to London. God knows my tax rebate isn't turning up any time soon (hate the tax office), so it's job hunting and money saving time; that means no more spending money on clothes (emphasis on the wish i was wearing), nights out, festivals or gigs...

...

..

Did I mention I've booked tickets to see Morrissey again?!

~~P.S. If you haven't already, remember to enter my 500+ followers giveaway!~~

500+ Followers Giveaway! (ENDED)

2011-07-08T15:12:00.005+01:00

So here it is - my 500 followers giveaway, as promised!

Prizes up for grabs are a second-hand navy leather bag and a gold-plated feather brooch; both found in local charity shops and both kind of difficult to part with, not going to lie. Let's hope I don't have a sudden change of heart before this gets posted.

Take note:

You must be a follower of this blog.
The giveaway is open to all (yes, that means YOU, lovely international reader!)
Just leave a comment saying something along the lines of "ENTER ME" (oo-err)
Don't forget to leave some way of contact, be it email address or simply a link back to your own blog if you have one.

Fancy an extra chance of winning? Oh, well, you could follow me on Twitter or post a link about the giveaway on your blog for an extra entry, I suppose. ;) (just lemme know if you do!)

Giveaway ends midnight 22nd of July (GMT), and the winner will be selected using trusty old random.org. Good luck! x

He stole all hearts away.

2011-07-02T15:32:00.033+01:00

30/06/11, Plymouth Pavilions.

I would have taken more photographs, but those two were risky enough! As soon as we arrived, the venue strictly stressed that no photographs were to be taken, and that if you did you would be ceremoniously chucked out. Naturally I obeyed for the first few songs in, and then I gave up. To my relief no angry beefy men in black shirts appeared with intentions to smash my camera up and/or kick me out but I still had a horrible vision of Morrissey halting the band, slowly pointing at me and drawling get out.

That didn't happen either, and the gig was absolutely amazing; such a lovely atmosphere and the set was brilliant. I Want The One I Can't Have, I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris, Everyday Is Like Sunday and There Is A Light That Never Goes Out were my favourites, along with I Know It's Over which was just so achingly beautiful my eyes welled up a bit! I know, what a sap. The only downer was when he began Speedway and then promptly abandoned it. Gutting! The encore of This Charming Man did soften that blow a little, though.

Then, when all was done; after Moz had left the stage, after everyone had filed out, and after I had bought an XL t-shirt (yeah, don't ask) on a post-gig high, we tried our luck in catching him leave...

After a good few minutes of roadies loading the van and pizzas get delivered into the building (oh man, they're going to be AGES! ...wait, what if they're for us? cool if they're for us. lady gaga would do that for her fans... yeah, but would morissey? nah.), he came out, gave us all a lovely little wave, bowed like a gent and jumped onto the tour bus.

Oh, and if you're a follower on Twitter then you're probably aware of the MASSIVE MORRISSEY FASHION FAUX-PA I committed. For those of you who aren't - I only went and wore my leather skirt to the gig, didn't I. Yes, that's right, I wore my leather skirt to a Morrissey gig. What a knob.

Set list:

I Want The One I Can't Have / You're The One For Me, Fatty / You Have Killed Me / Shoplifters Of The World Unite / I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris / Ouija Board, Ouija Board / Irish Blood, English Heart / Meat is Murder / Everyday Is Like Sunday / There Is A Light That Never Goes Out /Action Is My Middle Name / Alma Matters / Speedway (abandoned)/ People Are The Same Everywhere / One Day Goodbye Will Be Farewell / Satellite Of Love / I Know It's Over / First Of The Gang To Die // This Charming Man

The room is on fire as she's fixing her hair.

2011-06-28T16:45:00.010+01:00

Guys, I know. It's a KIMONO!

I bought it on a whim yesterday from Primark (£10) and I wasn't really too sure about it at first; I really love that it's a kimono (that's a real novelty), but it's just a bit ice creams and pastels... Colours that aren't really "me". It has grown on me since purchase, though, and I can see it being perfect for sunny Bestival (please be sunny, please) so I probably will keep it.

I'll leave the labels on a few days longer though, just in case...

In other, just as exciting but nevertheless un-kimono-related news, I am seeing Morrissey in just TWO DAYS. Oh, it's been a long time coming, but TWO DAYS! I was supposed to see him late 2009 but he fell ill and had to cancel a few shows, one of those being the Bournemouth gig two minutes from my house, and they never got rescheduled. I was gutted, but c'est la vie, it's all worked out in the end. That's providing he doesn't cancel/walk off/fall ill this time round...

And finally, in even more exciting news, I just reached 500 followers (literally just on it -cue the spiteful follower drop!) - so thank you very much! I'll be holding a competition to celebrate soon, so watch this space.

Now, time for the amazing show that is Four in a Bed.

yes, that's a wink

P.S. What are your thoughts on the "vintage" feel photographs? I've been fiddling around with a few of my settings today and, if I may say so myself, they're quite snazzy. It's crazy what CinemaScape and a few rounded edges can do... oh, aesthetics.

"Get a van, Jez, and we can be Men with Ven."

2011-06-22T21:04:00.008+01:00

Opening Ceremony stripe top, £110.00
Denim short shorts, £45.00
Melissa shoes, £82.00
Yves Saint Laurent patent leather clutch, £125.00
Tom Ford cat-eye sunglasses, £192.00
Chanel Hydrabase Lipstick, £24.00
SUP! Sorry for the break in blogging, I've not found myself with much time to put anything together this week what with London frivolities, Father's Day celebrations and Edinburgh planning; not to forget all the writing in cafés and skinny lattes with Emily, too. We are just so bloody cool and cosmopolitan.

My trip back to London was lots of fun, though I did spend the majority of my stay drunk in Camden (always camden), doing shots and hassling the DJ ("play some blur, go on!" "i can't, it's 80s night."), by the end of my stay I didn't really want to come back... had a little Jack Penate moment on the platform and everything. Oh, London, what you do to me. It's a good job I've got a few things planned to tide me over until September or I'd probably go insane.

Wish I had something planned for now, though; bit jealous of everyone heading to Glastonbury! Secretly hoping it pisses down Bestival 2008 style on you all...

Only joking.

Kind of.

p.s. how brilliant is that purse?!

Style Inspiration: Marina Diamandis

2011-06-12T20:40:00.000+01:00

Oh Marina, you babe.

Who said I lied, because I never. I never.

2011-06-09T17:22:00.004+01:00

I didn't really plan on doing an "outfit post" today but I've come to realise recently that I NEVER do them, and they're kind of vital for a "fashion" blog, aren't they? I'm hoping to start doing more, but I've not quite yet mastered the not-looking-awkward thing/taken the initiative to charge up my camera batteries, hence the less than professional webcam photographs. Apologies!

I seem to have subconsciously gone nautical today. The stripey top is Whistles, as you probably know (it appeared in my last "outfit post" - go-to piece), the navy skirt featuring good old gold buttons is charity shop (originally ankle length and fondly named sally army skirt until i took it up), and as for the necklace, well, that's an old Topshop buy and used to be a full-bodied owl until it started falling apart a few months back. I kind of like it as just a head though, so I've not thrown it out despite my friend Nadia telling me it's like a "bad omen". As for shoes, I am wearing some (my patent russ & brom loafers) but you just can't see 'em! Probably best, really - the right heel has worn right down and they're filthy.

So there you go, a (semi) outfit post; hope it'll suffice. Do let me know if outfit posts (or anything else for that matter) are something you'd like to see more of on my blog - I'll be more than happy to oblige if it's something my readers are interested in.

Anyway, going to wrap this up - my Edinburgh Fringe programmed arrived this morning (anyone reading this going? tell me if you are!), so I'm going to go have a good read and try make some plans!

Wales

2011-06-05T12:55:00.015+01:00

Sorry for the lack of blogging recently. As you may or may not know, I just got back from holidaying in Wales! I must say, along with being quite beautiful, Wales met all other stereotypical expectations brilliantly; rain on the first day (surprisingly sunny the rest of the time though), a ridiculous amount of sheep and hundreds of places with little to no vowels in their names. ;)

The only bad point of the whole trip was when the car decided to conk out on the way home, resulting in us being towed to a nearby car garage in the middle of nowhere by FRANK GRIMES (anyone get the reference? 10 points if you do) and then having to wait a good couple of hours for the car to get fixed. During this time went exploring and discovered a huge car graveyard nearby, which was kind of cool, in a creepy, unnerving way; like something out of a horror film (anyone remember the awful film Wrong Turn?), or a Doctor Who episode...

Just two victims of Car Graveyard

You'll be pleased to know we didn't meet our fate in Car Graveyard, though, and we did eventually get home too (albeit in a completely different car, and quite a lot later than originally planned...), which was both a relief and a little saddening. I wouldn't have minded a little longer in the countryside...

Every day you must say, "Oh, how do I feel about my shoes?"

2011-05-22T19:27:00.005+01:00

Another day, another shoe post. I'm not really helping to move the female stereotype along much, am I? Sorry about that. These ones were only £5 from my local charity shop though, and they're pretty much completely unused. I didn't think I'd have enough luck for them to be in my size, but lo' and behold they were. Lovely! I'll have them, thank you. Whilst paying, the lady behind the till smiled and said something like, "Victorian dress up, hey!" I just smiled back politely. Er, something like that.

Hope these ones last longer than my tan versions - losing a sole in the middle of Camden really wasn't one of my finer moments...

On a slightly different note, today's post can have a Happy Birthdays feature. Happy Birthday Morrissey (seeing him in 39 days!!!), who was born today in 1959; and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, born exactly 100 years before, in 1859. Oh, and Happy Birthday to Noel Fielding for yesterday too.* It must be a May thing.

Have a nice evening, I'm going to go watch the BAFTAs (come on, cumberbatch, come on, freeman!)

*disclaimer: i swear i don't memorize celebrity birthdays; i just use twitter a lot.

It's love. It's not Santa Claus.

2011-05-13T19:17:00.006+01:00

(500) days... by circusbox

Priestley's vintage a-line dress, £385.00

Chloé ballet shoes, £235

Topshop white handbag, £30.00

Topshop oversized sunglasses, £32.00

Today's "I wish I was wearing" is a tiny bit influenced by the film (500) Days of Summer... Or, more accurately, by Summer (played by the brilliant zooey deschanel) and her lovely blue wardrobe. The film was on Sky this morning, so I watched it whilst doing my elliptical work-out (going strong!) and got all inspired.

The Priestley dress is an almost perfect mix of the Ikea scene dress and the wedding scene dress, and the shoes, bag and sunglasses are things I've been wanting a while now... Anyone wanna lend me a bit of money?

Hope you guys are alright, enjoy Blogger whilst it's up and running ;)

Don't say you don't, please say you do, ooh! ooh!

2011-05-09T19:27:00.006+01:00

I spotted these 1950s Opera Glasses going for £3 at a car-boot sale last week and I just couldn't resist getting them. God knows what I'll use them for (not really an opera goer myself) but they're so aesthetically pleasing I don't think I mind just having them for the sake of it. They came in a little cardboard case and are made by a company called 'Arrow' but that's all I've got; I've tried looking up a bit more on them but can't seem to find much. If anyone happens to know anything, do let me know...

In other exciting news, today I received my new Elliptical Machine and proceeded to spend most of my morning putting it together (a workout in itself). Oh yeah, I'm going HEALTHY. I don't really enjoy outside jogging, and I never bother properly with the gym so here we are... Anyone else got one of these monsters? How long do you go on yours for? I'm going to aim for an hour or so a day.

Starting tomorrow. Naturally.

Vogue: June 2011

2011-05-03T11:34:00.012+01:00

Surprisingly underwhelmed by Vogue this time if I'm honest. We do all enjoy a bit of Alexa though, and she does look good (even if cover doesn't. so safe, so boring, hate the neon pink font.) so let's share the photographs...

What do you guys think? I really like the black and white "She's Got It" photograph (not only does it feel like "old alexa" but it also slightly reminds me of that well-known Ian Curtis photograph) but I'm not really excited by the rest of it.

The hair is looking good though...

Keep Calm and Marry on.

2011-04-29T18:01:00.014+01:00

Happy Royal Wedding Day! (i know, i know, not the most original post ever, but here we are. i'll keep it short and sweet.)

I didn't really think I'd go in for the Royal Wedding much today, but funnily enough I've ended up spending most of the day in front of the telly, with my family, watching the wedding and reading/re-tweeting the various hilarious tweets going about.

It's got to be said that Kate looked gorgeous in her Alexander McQueen (ahh!) dress, Wills looked very handsome, Harry looked even better and Pippa looked HOT. Also, the weather stayed sunny! Hurrah for street parties everywhere. I have to stay though, aside from the balcony kiss(es) and the cool Aston Martin departure (the 'JU5T MARRIED' number plate, genius), my favourite moment was when one of the guards held open the car door for the Queen and she climbed out the other side instead. Ha! Oh, Queenie. You joker.

Anyway, I said I'd keep this short so I'll end it on a Congrats Wills and Kate! (finally, some cool(ish) royals)

I'm not the kind of fool who's gonna sit and sing to you...

2011-04-26T20:20:00.011+01:00

Denfield Tee, £34.00

Carven Wool Skirt, £225.00

Patent Apricot Mary Janes, £68.00

Chanel Tote Bag, £1800.00

Just another "I wish I was wearing..."

Now I know there may be a beautiful skirt, some lovely matching Mary Janes and the token Chanel bag up there, but I actually think my favourite thing about this set is the tee. Oh, that little posh ampersand. I may actually have to buy him when I've actually got a bit of money.

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T13:57:00.000+01:00

Charity Find: Denim Shirt

2011-04-22T16:56:00.012+01:00

Top: Whistles

Shirt: Charity shop (topshop)

Skirt: Whistles

Necklace: Gogo Philip

Bracelet: Charity shop

I'm slowly but surely building up my summer wardrobe (so, you know, prepare for torrential downpour any moment soon) and it's going surprisingly well! I bought this denim Topshop shirt for £3 from a little charity shop in Southbourne yesterday, and I also found a nice coral shirt along side it too.

Today, aside from take those two photographs up there (and a whole load of others that didn't make the cut) I've done absolutely nothing but watch telly, read blogs and eat egg and soilders, which I'm starting to feel slightly guilty about... I've got a constant nagging in my mind telling me to get outside and enjoy the weather because it "won't last forever, you know!" but I'll ignore it for now. I'm going out this evening, that'll do!

Hope you guys are well! (you know, you really shouldn't be indoors on a day like this.)

Orpheus melted the heart of Persephone, but I never had yours.

2011-04-18T17:42:00.006+01:00

It's funny, I swear I have far better luck charity shopping in Bournemouth than I ever do in London. Last week I managed to find quite a few gems down the high street, but that old tapestry sewing chest up there is the thing I'm going to share with you today.

£3.49, my friends! Quite the bargain, yeah? Don't worry if you don't agree, I understand... got a proper good ribbing from my dad for it already; when he saw it he just burst out laughing. He thinks it's hideous. Hm. Suppose it's not to everybody's taste.

I'm not entirely sure what I'm going to use it for just yet (maybe i should get my sew back on!), but it does seem to be doing a pretty good job of being a cat bed at the moment.

I dreamt about you last night, and I fell out of bed twice.

2011-04-12T15:01:00.005+01:00

Pinafore Dress, £45.00

Oversize White Tee, £30

Movado Black Watch, £245.00

Russell & Bromley Loafers, £110.00

I cannot believe the weather at the moment! It's infuriatingly glorious and I am not prepared for it at all; I have absolutely nothing in my wardrobe I fancy wearing, especially without tights (no, i am not ready for bare legs. not at all.), and the fact I'm in a seaside town where everyone is constantly dressed for sun does not make me feel any better.

How are you lot dealing with it?

The outfit up there is something I'd happily wear if I just had bit more money (and a tan). Creating it hasn't really solved my no decent summer clothing dilemma, but I'm certainly inspired to get shopping!

And now there's an angry bee stuck in my room. Great.

Yeah, I put some new shoes on and suddenly everything is right...

2011-04-07T23:00:00.007+01:00

Oh, Paolo, never have truer words been spoken...

Allow me to introduce you to the new Barker Brogues I managed to nab for an amazing £30 on eBay last week (yep, the ebay obsession is back in full swing) I've wanted some proper, well made brogues for a while now, and this new purchase may even mean my R&B loafers can finally have a little bit of a rest! (told you they were worth the investment)

Anyway, I slipped them on (slipped being the exact word i'd use) as soon as they arrived this morning and, to my surprise, they were a perfect fit! Shoes are never a perfect fit for me (i'm an awkward size 6.5) but these really were perfect. Really. Not one pinch! Not even a rub! Amazing. No breaking in for me, I thought. Sweet!

Ha ha ha. Oh, how naive I am... six hours of walking around Southbourne in the sun? OW.

What I've Been Up To...

2011-04-02T23:23:00.004+01:00

1) Had a hair cut. For free. And, if I may say so myself, Abi did a great job! If you're London-based, check out Brooks and Brooks in Holborn, they're absolutely brilliant.

2) Turned twenty on the 29th! Oh yes. Alas, I'm no longer a teen... quite a shocker. Sadly, for the first year ever, I couldn't be with my family, so my friends went that extra mile and woke me up with champers and chocolate and cake and presents and it was just lovely. Of course, I'm sure you've also got lots of presents/cards/money for me - just drop me a line for my address, yeah? ;)

3) Visited the Titanic Exhibition at the O2 arena, which was really fun (did you know a first class ticket on board would have cost you £63,000 in today's money? oh yeah. interesting, ey? got plenty more where that came from.) Upon entering you're given a boarding pass of a real passenger, and at the end you find out whether you survived or not. My name was Miss Jean Gertrude Hippach, and my mother and I switched our tickets from Olympic to Titanic in order to have more time to shop in Paris... Despite this unfortunate change of plan, I'm pleased to say myself and mother survived!

4) Bought my Bestival ticket (yesss!), and also tickets to see Morrissey in July! I'M SEEING MOZ! Oh man. You have no idea how excited I am.

5) Ate. A lot.

And now for the final big two...

6) I quit my job

7) Today I moved back home to Bournemouth.

Ha! Told you big changes were afoot.

Unless you follow me on Twitter, you're probably not aware that for a little while there's been a plan for me and my housemates to all head back home (this is partly the reason i've been so crap on the blogging front!) It was a really tough decision to make. I love living in London so much, but as the lease on our house was only until April, we figured that rather renew it/find a new place and carry on with what we're doing (working a lot, paying rent, working a lot), it'd be nice to go back home for a little while and then return.

I'm back back back!

I own a hat!

2011-03-11T16:33:00.003Z

As you can probably tell by my lack of posting, I'm still not quite back in that blogging frame of mind, and I apologise. Again. For the few people asking what's up, I just want to say that I am okay, there's nothing wrong, I've just got a few things happening at the moment and it's all a bit manic.

Sorry to be so ambiguous, I'll fill you all in as soon as everything is sorted.

Enough about that for now, though. I've just, for the first time in my life, bought a hat!

(i know, i know, my fringe is in dire need of a trim)

I am most definitely not a "hat person" normally, I just don't look right in them. Floppy hats, however, are okay. I don't look, or feel, quite so much a knob in floppy hats.

I do look like a bit of a knob when I pout in them though...

This wasn't the original floppy hat I wanted. Originally I wanted a £60 leopard print one I found in the Oxford Street Topshop around Christmas time. Needless to say, I didn't buy it (sixty quid! come on.) and instead choose to keep an eye out for something similar, and slightly more reasonably priced.

And I did. In Next, as a matter of fact! For £25.

I've not worn it out yet (bloody wind), but watch this space.

The King's Speech

2011-02-28T17:12:00.008Z

So I went and saw The King's Speech last night (again! this time with the fam; am visiting home for a week), and then (accidentally) stayed up until five am watching the Oscars. I knew I should have just gone to bed at a normal time and watched a nice montage of the winners this morning like everyone else, but once I'd found myself reaching three am... well, you know, in for a penny and all that.

Anyway, as you all know (probably. sorry if you don't! just stop reading now. stop.) King's Speech came up well deserving trumps; Best Picture, Actor in Leading Role, Directing and Writing. Hurrah!

The rest of the awards went to very well deserving recipients, too... Natalie Portman, Leading Actress; Inception, Visual Effects; Costume Design, Alice in Wonderland... also, go Toy Story 3! Best animated feature film ever.

The King's Speech definitely stole the show, though; a very deserving winner.

Aaaaw, Colin!

Charity Find: Carpet Bag

2011-02-22T19:11:00.015Z

So it's been just over two weeks since my last post!

I don't even know how it happened; I just seemed to suddenly lose my blogging drive, all of it! I'm sorry. In my defence, I have been pretty busy these past couple of weeks... In fact, I've been so busy I'm going to do a little list to prove to you just how busy I've been.

And to make myself feel better.

I helped cover Whistles in Bluewater (got put up in a hotel and everything... on valentines; single room, meal for one... tragic), had my friend Kirsty come up and stay, had a brilliant night out in Shoreditch, felt sorry for myself the day after said night in Shoreditch, saw Black Swan, read the rest of Stephen Fry's "Moab is my Washpot", gutted out my entire room, did a ridiculous chocolate binge with my housemate Tom (chocolate cake, nutella, galaxy and fox's chocolate fudge creams...), did some excellent charity shopping and started watching The OC, in its entirety, from the beginning.

And on top of all that, I also managed to fit work in! How do I do it?!

Ok, so I know I could have slipped in a post here and there but, really, haven't felt too bloggy recently. I will get back into the swing of things soon though! Honestly. I can change.

Let me show you my latest charity shop find!

Carpet Bag (£3.50)! He's pretty big, so I'm thinking he'll be my new suitcase-cum-travel bag for when I visit home... I can maybe even wear Carpet Cardi whilst using it!

Or not.

I also found Stephen Fry's "The Liar" for £1 (love that man) and the film "Goodbye Charlie Bright", which we (we being nadia and i) are just about to watch with reduced £2 chocolate cake. Lovely!

Tottenham charity shops, you're alright!

Oh, you'll never be a cover girl.

2011-02-06T09:45:00.009Z

(Just facing facts: your face isn't right.)

So a couple of days ago I received a very pretty package in the post!

This pretty little thing was from lovely beauty blogger Lauren at laurenstephaniedoll as I'd won her Christmas competition. I'd almost completely forgotten about winning, so it was a lovely surprise to open up the box and find proper make-up and pink smarties (pink!).

Now Lauren is queen of all things make-up, whilst I'm pretty rubbish at anything other than eyeliner (oh yes, i'm a pro at the cat flicks, but don't ask me to do anything else) I'm hoping this lot should get me started on trying out a few new techniques.

Charity Find: Carpet Cardigan

2011-01-31T14:45:00.019Z

Sorry for not keeping up with posts this week, I've been home, visiting the fam, celebrating my sister's birthday (baked my famous chocolate cake. success!), seeing friends and getting a good dose of Bournemouth charity shopping (always more successful than london charity shopping, funnily enough), and today I ended up doing a pretty impressive cardigan haul.

Check out Carpet Cardigan! Now I know he's not to everybody's tastes, but those people can bugger off because I think he's beautiful. And only £4.99! I also bought two other plainer cardigans for £3.99 each, and that Primark sailor cardigan everybody owns...

Yeah, I think I'm sorted on the cardigan front!

Whistles SS11

2011-01-26T21:49:00.013Z

Yes, we all know Whistles does some lovely (and pricey) stuff, but oh man, this season's stuff is most certainly up my street. I love the 60s, and all this emits a wonderful 60s retro vibe; from the garments (the colours, the patterns, those high-waisted trousers, the a-line skirt) to the shoot itself (these photographs look like they could have been taken an age ago, and doesn't the location remind you of one of those cool, 1960s penthouses?) - the whole thing is just so right.

We've not had much through in delivery yet, apart from these teasing look books, but I am very excited for when these beauties start trickling through. I'm planning my uniform already.

Charity Find: Leopard Print Jumper

2011-01-21T11:15:00.011Z

So I've been on the hunt (hunt. leopard. har har!) for a nice leopard print jumper for absolutely yonks now, but I've never managed to find one quite right.

I didn't think so, but I'm apparently very particular about what I want in my jumper.

it's got to have a round-neck it can't be too pale it can't be too bright the spots have to look a certain way it has to be soft it can't be too thin it can't be so thick it makes me look bulky it can't be too short it must have long arms it must be slightly oversized...

I remember seeing Kate and Alexa sporting Chloe Sevingy's lovely one (almost perfect, but a bit too short) and being spurned on in my quest even more. However, despite trailing round shop after shop (vintage, charity, highstreet), I still never found anything.

I'd pretty much given up hope of finding this crazy dream jumper but then, on Monday, whilst idly browsing my local Oxfam, I came across this...

It's only taken me a few years, people, but I've finally found one (patience is a virtue, good things come to those who wait, yar yar yar) and it's pretty much exactly what I wanted, and a snip at just £4.99!

Now... Leopard Alexa to go with it, anyone?

Labour of Love...

2011-01-13T22:34:00.012Z

Look - two posts in one week! I am on FIRE, haha.

Today I thought I'd share with you one of my favourite boutiques in London; designer Francesca Forcolini's Labour of Love in Islington, London - a little shop full of gorgeous garments, shoes, trinkets and treasures.

Luckily for me (or unluckily, if you're looking at it from my bank accounts perspective...), the place is only five minutes away from work, so I'm forever finding myself popping in for a look.

I know, I know, photo heavy, but I couldn't help it - literally everything in the store is lovely! You can really tell every single item has been selected with the utmost thought and care (they don't call it labour of love for nothin', ya know ;))

Aside from stocking the stores own beautiful Labour of Love line, Francesca has also made room for lots of other fancy labels too (TBA, Gemma Lister, Eley Kishimoto, Manoush... the list goes on), so it's pretty certain you're going to fall in love with something if you risk stepping inside.

If you can't, then click here for their online shop. It's almost as good.

193 Upper Street
Islington
London
N1 1RQ

"In 2011, I'm going to blog more..."

2011-01-10T18:29:00.010Z

I'm rubbish, ten days in and it seems I'm already I'm breaking that New Years resolution! Sorry, I know I could have easily posted a few photographs and wittered on about something vaguely fashion related, but I really hate posting just for the sake of it. I hope you're all still with me...

I thought I'd do a little bit of an outfit post today, a "little bit" because the photograph only shows a little bit of the outfit (though, to be fair, it is the best bit!)

Shirt: H&M (£5 in the sale!)
Skirt: Whistles
Necklace: Topshop

My new leather skirt!

It's Whistles, and I've wanted one forever, so when the "Alexis" dropped by in delivery, I fell in love and quickly bought it as a piece of uniform. It's pretty pricey even with my discount, but let's just call it an investment piece; I'll be wearing it a lot.

Also, I got snapped and interviewed by Selfridge's Style a while back, which just got put up on the website. Whistles printed it in the weekly news letter and everything.

Oh, fame... Click here if you're at all interested in seeing my mention, and the awful picture that goes with it!

Now, off to to see The King's Speech (gotta love the firth)! Have a lovely evening.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T23:34:00.024Z

Happy New Year, all! Hope everyone had a good night. How are we all feeling today? Bit delicate?

Yeah, me too.

I spent my New Years here in London with a few friends; originally planned to stay at ours, but ended up at a house party down the road before long! Ended the night (or morning, depending on how you look at it) in Finsbury Park at 6am with a greasy kebab. CLASS. Had work later too, which was a right hoot.

Anyway, I just want to say thank you to all who have followed me and my blog throughout 2010. I really am surprised at how far things have come along and how much my life has changed; it's been an absolutely amazing year and I've really loved having you lot along for the ride.

Wishing you all a wonderful 2011! x

Season's Greetings!

2010-12-26T15:23:00.007Z

Happy Boxing Day! Hope you all had a lovely Christmas. You'll be pleased to know I've recovered from my bug, have had a lovely couple of days and am just eating chocolate gateaux (not a huge fan of christmas pud if i'm honest) and watching telly now. Lovely! Still praying for a sudden snow blizzard so I don't have to go back to work tomorrow, but hey ho.

As you can see, I was lucky enough to receive some of the things from my wishlist! No, sadly still no Mulberry Alexa! But all in good time...

Enjoy the rest of the holidays! x

Sickness and wishlists...

2010-12-20T15:41:00.017Z

I'm blogging from my sickbed today as I seem to have caught some kind of stomach bug. I'll spare you the details, but I feel bloody awful. Wah! It's at times like this that I wish I was at home with my family.

It's not all bad though, I suppose - at least it's happened now rather than on Christmas. Plus I got a day off work, which meant sleep marathon, movie marathon, and a chance to dream up a Christmas wishlist...

Cream Bell Sleeve Lace Shift Dress, £50.00
Premium Faux Fur Collar Coat, £275.00
Mulberry Alexa leather bag, £675.00
Disney Couture Gold And Silver Perfume Bottle Pendant Necklace, £45.00
NARS Blush, £20.00
Luella's Guide to English Style: Luella Bartley: Books, £10.00
Parfums Chanel Beauté - Eaux de toilette Chanel : Coco Mademoiselle £40.00
UrbanOutfitters Lomo Diana Dreamer Camera, £30.00

What do you think? Oh yes, I'm quite aware that I'm unlikely to get half this stuff... (my coat! my coat! come on, mulberry alexa!) but hey, a girl can (delusionally) dream, right?!

Bath at Christmas

2010-12-15T22:30:00.007Z

I've been back down South for the past couple of days this week spending some quality Christmas time with the fam. Today we visited the beautiful city of Bath, Somerset, which is about an hour and a half drive from Bournemouth.

My photographs don't really do it justice, but it's such a gorgeous place, easily one of the most beautiful citys in England - just rows and rows of elegant Georgian buildings made from Bath Stone.

It's kind of become a Christmas tradition for my family to visit around Christmas time, and you'll be pleased to hear that my visit resulted in me finally buying some Christmas presents! Three, in fact. It's a start.

Yes, I had another Toffee Nut Latte (i know!) and an amazing black forest cup cake. Can't believe how much sweet stuff I've eaten since I got home. You can guess my New Years resolution.

Now, I leave you with this, because I'm mature...

;) Speak soon!

Christmas Shopping...

2010-12-10T21:34:00.008Z

I just got home from an attempt at Christmas shopping on Oxford Street and have come back completely empty handed...

I had good intentions, but it appears shopping for people is bloody hard, and so after just a few minutes of searching I found myself getting distracted. The next thing I knew I was trying stuff on for myself (complete success, may i had!) and sipping a Festive Toffee Nut Latte (and i thought gingerbread lattes were good!)

It wasn't all fruitless, though... got a few good(ish) present ideas (still got 15 days - i will do this!) and the chance to take a brilliant little outfit post where I've cut off my head and am standing like. I don't even know what.

Coat: Whistles
Shirt: Whistles
Necklace: Topshop
Skirt: Charity
Shoes: Russell & Bromley

Don't worry though, to make up for the lack of head I took the liberty of taking a head-shot for you...

Quick question before I go - what's your favourite perfume? I'm on the hunt for a new one and I'm finding that every perfume I try starts to smell the same after just a few minutes of sniffing. Most annoying!

Anyway, that's it for now. I shall update you on the Christmas shopping as and when it happens... Hope yours is going better than mine.

You Just Haven't Earned It Yet, Baby.

2010-12-05T18:34:00.003Z

So I foolishly popped into Topshop and tried on the coat I briefly blogged about here...

Oh yes. I knew the price, I knew I couldn't afford it, and yet I still went in and tried it on.

I am an idiot.

And I am head over heels, babyyy...

New Uniform!

2010-11-30T17:18:00.007Z

This weather is ridiculous! I am absolutely freezing.

Anyway, I thought I'd do a little work-related post showing you a couple of my new uniform purchases.

The Estelle

The Mini Lightning Bolt

Yep, both dresses. Really, I should have done the wise thing and invested in a couple of jumpers or something (our store is so bloody cold), but I just couldn't. I saw these and there was no going back!

I was hoping to post some photographs of me in them but alas, today has winded up a lazy day (as they do) and I've not even bothered to get dressed. Maybe tomorrow!

Surprise Parcels!

2010-11-25T22:45:00.002Z

How happy was I yesterday to come home from my cover shift at Selfridges and find this beauty of a package waiting for me on the kitchen table?

Very! The pretty package (don't you just love it when something is packaged all brown paper and string) was from Rosalilium, as a couple of weeks ago I was lucky enough to be one of the winners of a competition she held.

Now I had no idea what the prize was going to be, but after some careful unwrapping I discovered a beautiful little china plate, two home-made cakes and an "inside sparkler", too sweet! (i tried to get a photo of the sparkler all brilliant and sparkling on the cake but the bugger went out too quickly)

The whole thing was such a lovely little surprise, I felt it definitely deserved its own post. Thanks, Rosalilium!

Maison Bertaux

2010-11-22T22:20:00.020Z

Sorry I've not kept my "I'm going to blog more" promise, but I've been laptopless (sounds a bit dodgey) for the past week as my poor little netbook finally gave up the ghost! I'm currently blogging from my lovely housemate Nadia's laptop, but mine should be back with me soon and the promise shall go full swing.

Anyway, back to business, I want tell you about my new favourtite place: Maison Bertaux, a beautiful little patisserie in London's Soho.

I've already been there twice since Friday (first with my fam, then with emily -- on the second visit I met paloma faith!)

The cafe has got a wonderful old Parisian feel to it; inside it's absolutely tiny, and at the moment the whole place is filled with artwork by Noel Fielding (whom I am a huge fan of); he's showing off his art exhibition"Bryan Ferry VS The Jellyfox at Gallery Maison Bertaux", you see, so the place is just covered in his beautifully mad paintings and scribbles...

That's just a peek at some of it. His stuff is going to be up until March 2011, so definitely go take a look if you're around - you won't regret it. It's all up for sale, too, so you could maybe even buy (me) a piece if you've got a fair bit of money saved ;)

If you need a little more persuasion, look at the cakes:

Now are you convinced? ;) Go go go!

My 3 Month Anniversary!

2010-11-14T23:00:00.004Z

So today is my 3 month Anniversary working for Whistles! You know what that means; I'm now finally entitled to my 50% discount!

This can only be a good thing. Right...?

Right! I've actually been very good and bought just the ONE thing (for now); the Celeste Overcoat that I've had my eye on since I started.

I was hoping to post up a picture of myself in it but sadly my laptop is being an arse (its pretty much dead), so these will have to do for now...

It's a navy gentleman's style coat; very classic looking with its buttoned waist, brilliant lapels and darted back (plus a couple of flap pockets and sructured shoulders thrown in for good measure)

It was actually the last size 10 in store, and I was umm-ing and ahh-ing whether to get it today or hold out a little while longer... That was, up until the point a girl came in, tried it on and wouldn't take it off. Oh, it was awful, I was watching her the whole while thinking oh god, no. i do want it, i do! don't buy it. don't you dare buy it.

Obviously she didn't (though she tortured me long enough), and as soon as she left I quickly placed it in the backroom for myself.

I win!

Oooh...

2010-11-09T18:27:00.003Z

Why yes, those are the Russell & Bromley patent loafers I've been lusting over for yonks!

Yes yes, in an accidental copy-cat post of Carrie over at WishWishWish (great taste, girl ;)), I thought I'd give you a quick look at my shiny new shoes (i actually bought them last week but due to the life hassle of work i haven't had a chance to introduce you to them until now, sorry)

As I said, I'd lusted over them for absolutely ages (thanks, chung) but just never had the money. This month, however, I finally got paid properly and, after going for months without doing much spending (london has stolen my heart AND my money), I felt I deserved a little treat...

Lauren Moffatt: Honeymooner Collection!

2010-10-31T22:29:00.011Z

Okay, okay, so I know it's a bit early to be posting Spring collections, but come on, really, after seeing Lauren Moffatt's "Honeymooner" collection, how could I not? Look at it with its lovely pastels, boater hats, frills and little girl ankle-socks... it's just perfect. Exactly my cup of tea (and speaking of tea, it's got a brilliant tea party feel to it, wouldn't ya say?) So pretty.

Yes, that one tiny word sums it up wonderfully - it's so pretty. Simple.

And guess what, I'm only bloody lusting after a new cape coat...

Like I said: Spring 2011. That's plenty of time to save, right? ;)

Hope you're all well. x

My Hometown: Bournemouth

2010-10-27T20:23:00.011+01:00

Hey guys, long time no blog, sorry about that; I've been busy busy busy with work, our first proper house party (the house is still recovering...), a visit to the Sherlock Museum (told you I'm a loser), the brilliant art exhibition Hell's Half Acre held in the Old Vic tunnels, a Channel 4 Comedy evening, and, finally, my hometown, where I'm currently blogging from!

Oh yes, I'm currently in the lovely seaside town of Bournemouth, relaxing and enjoying some quality time with the fam. It was a surprise visit, which pleased me a stupid amount:

Me: Hi dad, sorry I missed your call - only just home.

Dad: You just got home? Em, that's awful, it's ten o'clock!

Me: I know, my journey took ages... like, two and a half hours.

Dad: Two and a half hours?! How?! Tube stri--

(At this point I'm standing outside the frontdoor. DING DONG!)

Dad: Hang on, Em, someone's at the door.

...

Brilliant! They didn't suspect a thing! My mum cried! I like the "only just got home" line best, myself... ;)

Have been spending my time here wisely; watching telly, eating real, home-made food, charity shopping (Boscombe charity shops are the best), visiting the beach (it's true, you don't know what you got 'til it's gone) and seeing friends. Am heading back to London tomorrow, though, on a coach, at 7am, just in time for work. Boo boo boo.

Anyway, that's all from me; hope you're all having a lovely week. I'll be sure to make up for my absence soon. Now, to catch up on blogs.

Barry M's Instant Effects

2010-10-16T18:04:00.007+01:00

So after reading all the rave reviews from various blogs, I finally decided to take advantage of the 2 for £5 deal Barry M's got going on at the moment and give the new Barry M Instant Effects Nail Paint a whirl...

PRETTY NIFTY, HEY?!

As you can see, I decided to go for the gold base (inspired by cowbiscuits!); not gonna lie, I was pretty amazed painting over it with the black coat and seeing it transform into this cool Aztec-y design within just a few seconds. So were my housemates (two of which are boys) - we just sat in the kitchen with baited breath, ooh-ing and ahh-ing at it change.

So yes, there we go - amazing, effortless nails in under 5 minutes. Highly recommended and too cool.

"Proper Post"

2010-10-13T18:19:00.008+01:00

Finally, a day off! And is it just me, or is it absolutely freezing? I'm sat here in my room on my bare, recently stripped bed (washing everything whilst I have the time) and am shivering. My hands are like ice, it's ridiculous.

Anyway. Right. Let's finally show my dyed hair:

Mm, dark brown! (possibly black...) I'm pretty happy with it - before it was kind of a faded dark brown, but now it looks all dark and rich and glossy! My friend Emily commented saying I'm looking a bit Snow White, haha. Don't mind that.

As I said in my last post, I've got a new purchase...

I found her whilst running errands for work (shh); I was passing through Camden Passage in Islington (the place where I also found my feather cape) and discovered it hidden amongst all the beautiful vintage clothes on one of the stalls. It was originally £15, but me and my amazing haggling skills got it down to a tenner.

It's so definitely some kind of brilliant 60s negligée throw-over but I just wanted it!

Now I'm off to go heat me up some Covent Garden Soup (leek & potato. with cheese.) and a hot water bottle. (freeeeeezing!) x

But I just have to tell you that I love you so much these days...

2010-10-12T00:03:00.012+01:00

Sorry I haven't blogged in nearly a week. My excuse is I've been working 6 days straight (tomorrow is my 7th, then I'm spared a day off, hurrah!) and I just haven't had the time to do anything but work, eat, sleep, repeat.

Work has been crazy as Grazia are doing a 25% off promotion at the moment and it seems literally everyone in London is taking advantage of it, especially on Saturday, when we happened to be very short-staffed.

It was also my housemate Tom's birthday on Saturday (happy birthday, kimono!) Nadia and I were excellent friends and woke up at the crack of dawn, like parents, to put banners and balloons around the house, prepare a chocolate message for him to wake up to and then rush off to work.

Anyway, tonight I finally got a bit of spare time to myself and so watched White Chapel and painted my nails a cool leopard print using a tutorial from lovely Gem Fatale.

One more day and then I'll do a proper post - I want to show you my latest purchase ;)

Dye dye dye.

2010-10-05T20:35:00.010+01:00

Hello, how is your week going? Been highly inconvenienced by the tube strikes, London bloggers? I have; late into work. Twice. And I left with extra time and everything! ("It seems the tubes go on strike and the whole of London grinds to a halt. And this weather! What is all that about?")

Anyway, enough English stereotypical moaning, let's go girl stereotype and talk hair!

The dullness of my hair got too much for me today (summer lightened all the chocolatey richness out of it), so I decided to take some much needed action and give it back some kick.

I've only ever dyed my hair a couple of times (reddish brown and black), and both times I went with Loreal. This time, however, I went with Superdrugs' "Colour Radiance 10", sole reason being because they've got a pretty nifty deal going on at the moment:

My house mate Emily assured me they're pretty good, and normally £4.99 each. The fact I'd have to buy two boxes anyway (i've got so much bloody hair!) meant the deal was perfect.

After a little mishap with the bottles (i wondered why the "hair colourant" was white and smelt like conditioner...) and some ruining of towels, I am pleased to say that the outcome is good and the dye did exactly what it promised - complete coverage in 10 minutes and hair that looks rich, sleek and healthy. Pictures to follow!

Payday Spending: Essentials

2010-10-01T17:57:00.027+01:00

So, as you all know, yesterday was payday.

1. 100% Pure Cotton Wool Pads, 2. Palmolive Naturals Honey Milk, 3 & 4. Herbal Essences Seductively Straight shampoo and conditioner, 5. Nivea moisturiser, 6. Exfoliating body gloves, 7. Blended tea tree oil, 8. Hair grips, 9. TRESemme hair spray, 10. Batiste dry shampoo, 11. Goody hairbrush, 12. Natural Collection clear nail varnish, 13. Rimmel 'Be Bold' lipstick (120)

So I bought my essentials. No, not the flashiest things in the world, but I stress, again, they are essentials! (okay, maybe the rimmel lipstick isn't, but shh.)

Oh, and I got this too...

As I said, essentials. ;)

Barry M Nail Paint: Winner!

2010-09-30T21:41:00.000+01:00

The winner of my Barry M Nail Paint giveaway is the lovely Sabella of bravegrrl! Congratulations, Sabella, I'll be sending a lovely shade of Berry Nail Paint your way very soon!

Thanks to all who entered - I'll be sure to hold another soon! x

Payday Planning...

2010-09-27T20:55:00.019+01:00

I know, I'm a bad blogger! I said I'd blog on my day off and I didn't, and then I didn't the day after, or the day after that, and I lied and I'm sorry.

I've not been feeling too "bloggy" these past few days as I've been working a lot and am very poor. So very poor. Too poor. I've got £8 in my account at the moment, it's depressing.

However, do not fear, things are finally set to change come Thursday as it's PAY DAY. On Thursday I shall have my first proper pay cheque since moving to London (it's only been six bloody months!) and can FINALLY get properly excited about clothes again. I can shop! This blog can be better yet! ;)

As you can imagine, what with all the new Autumn/Winter collections everywhere, I'm feeling a little like that kid in that candy store: overwhelmed and greedy. I LOVE this time of year, and I've been spending this past week window shopping, online shopping (my wishlists are ridiculous), browsing eBay and creating sets on Polyvore - here's my perfect Autumn/Winter outfit! Behold!

Autumn/Winter by circusbox featuring a cream dress

Cream Peter Pan Lace Dress, £45.00
Premium Faux Fur Collar Coat, £175.00
Mulberry Alexa leather bag, £695.00
Causse Grace Gloves with beaded bow, £320.00
Chanel N°5 Perfume| Nordstrom.com, £52.00
Kate Kanzier, £35.00

What do you think? I'm absolutely in love with the coat. In fact, it may even be ahead of the trench cape... Arg, I'm so bloody fickle.

Hope you're all having a good week!

I was looking for a job and then I found a job...

2010-09-23T21:34:00.022+01:00

...and heaven knows I'm miserable now.

Ha, I jest, I jest...

Kind of.

Been non-stop helping out in various Whistles stores around London this week. It's been fun, but GOD my feet hurt. All the time. Literally just got in from working in South Molton Street and have yet to have dinner (it's 9.30pm!), but I thought I'd give you all quick quickie (oo-er...) to let you know I am alive and I am getting by and to say hello to new followers!

I'm always delighted to find that even after having not posted for a few days, new people are still appearing. Thank you! Shame I've had to let you all down with this sort of mediocre filler post... Tomorrow is my day off, though, so hopefully, if I find time between sleeping and cleaning and washing and food shopping, I'll get round to posting something a little better for you.

Anyway, enough. I must go eat. Hope you're all well!

P.S. I'll be announcing the winner of my little Barry M Nail Paint giveaway at some point next week; if you've not yet entered, click here.

Giveaway!

2010-09-19T16:04:00.017+01:00

So I've reached 100 followers. As a little thank you I've got a nice, brand-spanking-new bottle of Barry M Nail Paint to give away!

(Barry M Nail Paints are brilliant, it has to be said. I recently raved about them here, if you remember)

The colour is "Berry" (308) and it's a brilliant ice cream shade of lilac. (it's so pretty that whilst buying it I couldn't resist getting one for myself too. i swear the guy behind the till thought i was a bit loopy buying two of the exact same)

To be in with a chance of winning, just make sure you're following and post a comment below, and if you could leave some way of contact (i.e. email) too, that'd be great. This giveaway is open to everyone, and the winner will be chosen using a random generator.

Good luck! x

The Cape Coat Has Landed...

2010-09-16T20:59:00.012+01:00

The picture doesn't do it justice, but here is the lovely Bessie Trench Cape I spoke about here. On hold in the staff room. For me! It arrived yesterday on my day off, so it was a lovely surprise to walk into the store and see it staring right at me. I tried it on and now there is no way I can't have it, we've formed a bond.

It'll be £97.50 with my 50% discount, which still hurts a bit but I'd buy it in a heartbeat if I had the money right now. I don't, and so I've got to wait a couple of weeks for payday... (hence it being held)

In other exciting news, I recently reached 100 lovely followers! To say thank you I'm going to be holding a little giveaway very soon. Watch this space.

Madewell Sneak Peek!

2010-09-10T22:15:00.022+01:00

So we all know about Chung's involvement with American fashion label Madewell? And I'm sure I'm not speaking alone when I say the whole collection looks lovely? And that we want it all? Especially the velvet peter pan collar dress? (already sold out)...

Good, glad we're all in agreement. Now here's a lovely 30 second preview of the collection commercial.

Dreamy. I love the quaint-country-vintage feel; it really reflects Alexa and the pieces perfectly. Oh Madewell, you're saving me a lot of money by refusing to ship to the UK.

To watch the full video and to browse the collection yourself, click here

Tag!

2010-09-08T12:10:00.017+01:00

Hello, I've been tagged again! This time by Victoria from My Favourite Fashion (do have a look)

1) Why did you start blogging?

I'd always considered starting a blog (inspired by bloggers like Carrie from WishWishWish!) but never really had the time/patience. After moving to London I found myself with quite a lot of spare time (unemployment, hurrah!), so I figured why not?

2) Do you prefer Spring/Summer or Autumn/Winter?

Autumn/Winter. I do love Summer, but I just love Winter that tiny bit more. For me Winter is when I can really dress up; I love layering and I love jumpers and I love coats and scarves and hats and gloves and tights and boots and getting into a warm house after being out in the cold. Not to forget Christmas, too.

3) What do you notice first: Smokey eye make-up or bright lips?

Probably bright lips; I love lipstick.

4) Who are your style icons?

Icons from the 60s, Alexa Chung, Zooey Deschanel, some bloggers.

5) Describe your personality in three words?

How to do this without coming across a wanker...

Oh hell.

Funny, considerate, friendly.

6) If you had to leave the house with only one item of make-up what would it be?

Liquid eyeliner! Like I said in the last tag I did, I feel naked without my cat flicks.

7) Which era do you think influenced fashion the most.

Probably the 60s.

8) What beauty product do you always repurchase?

Liquid Liner (again, cat flicks!)

Now, I'm gonna tag...

Have a good Wednesday! x

Barry M Nail Paint

2010-09-06T17:23:00.021+01:00

NOT a promotional post, but I just thought I'd give you gals (or guys) a heads up on the 2 for 1 deal Barry M have going on with their Nail Paints at the moment.

Barry M nail varnish is my easily my favourite nail varnish, so when Nadia and I were browsing Boots this week and stumbled across this sweet deal, we decided, naturally, to take full advantage of it and go halves each (oh it's so cool living with other girls!).

Nadia got Mint Green (304), whilst I opted for Blueberry (306), a pastel blue colour. Here! I took the liberty of taking a photo for you.

I imagine we'll be buying more soon...

The Bessie Trench Cape

2010-09-04T23:55:00.023+01:00

It's beautiful. It's perfect. A brilliant hybrid of the trench and the cape.

It's also an impressive £195.00...

No idea when it's expected to arrive in our store (if it even will!), but my heart races a little every time we get a new delivery (4 days a week. my poor heart). I've also been contemplating how I can convince my colleagues that a cape coat could kind of a bit be classed as uniform... (75% off, remember!)

Would you say being able to whoosh around corners and up stairs whilst looking all cool and Sherlocky is a valid argument...?

My feather collar ruff.

2010-08-31T20:39:00.013+01:00

Isn't it COOL! I found it last week whilst on my lunch break in Camden Passage (a lovely backstreet of Islington full of little vintage shops and stalls) and it cost me £20, which I was more than happy to pay as I wanted a very similar from ASOS last year that was £40.

I've no idea what I'll wear it with/to (i'm kind of terrified of all the feathers falling out) but I'm sure I'll find some occasion. Or maybe I'll just wear it around the house like some ridiculous of Queen of Sheba, who knows...

Mememe...

2010-08-26T00:14:00.013+01:00

Hello, bloggers! The ever lovely Irene has tagged me in an about me post, so here we go...

1) What is your favourite fashion magazine?

Probably Elle. It's one of the first 'proper' fashion magazines I ever really bought, and I may be being a bit biased but I feel they're always pretty much dead on with everything, especially obtainable fashion; stuff that can be applied to everyday life, not just on the runway.

2) Who is your favourite singer/band?

Oh man, I love The Smiths and Morrissey. Just lyrical genius and I do not care what anyone says about them/him being depressing and all that crap - there's humour in there. Besides, who doesn't love indulging in their misery?

Other bands I love are She & Him (i wish i was zooey deschanel) and The Killers (i wish i was with brandon flowers)

3) Who is your favourite YouTube guru?

My favourite YouTube guru... Now, I don't really watch YouTube tutorials much, but when I do I normally tend to watch Pixiwoo's make-up tutorials. She's so talented, she's just brilliant.

4) What is your favourite make-up product?

Liquid eyeliner. I just feel so naked without my cat flicks. Lipstick comes a close second; I have way too much lipstick.

5) Where would you like to live?

Where I live right now; London. To me it's the most amazing city in the world, and moving here has been one of the best things I've ever done.

6) What is your favourite film?

A Clockwork Orange. Or...

(500) Days of Summer. Brilliant storyline, brilliant cast, brilliant imagery, brilliant soundtrack. Again, wish I was Zooey Deschanel. Total wardrobe envy during the whole of this film.

7) How many pairs of shoes do you own?

Oh too many. I've got brogues, dollies, heels, boots, ankle-boots, wellies, slippers, you name it. (although I still don't have those sam edelman clogs, damn it)

8) What is your favourite colour?

I don't really have a favourite colour, but if pushed I'd say navy blue. I love vintage, nautical, public school-boy style. Navy blue just sums it all up brilliantly to me.

Tag!

Georgia
Lauren
Indigo
Amber Rose
Victoria

1960s

2010-08-21T08:48:00.025+01:00

Later this evening I will be back in my hometown of Bournemouth at a 1960s themed party.

I've pretty much got my outfit sorted, so right now I'm just collecting together a bit of inspiration for hair and make-up and am enjoying myself far too much. I bloody love the 60s, it's easily my favourite era - so many of my fashion inspirations: Brigitte Bardot, Catherine Deneuve, Edie Sedgwick, Jane Birkin, Mia Farrow, Sylvie Vartan, Twiggy...

It's frustrating to know I'll look nowhere near as good as any of them, but I'm damn well willing to give it a try! Now, where's my hairspray...

Uniform...

2010-08-18T21:19:00.018+01:00

Finally, time to blog! It seems this whole having a job lark takes up a lot of spare time.

Yesterday I chose two pieces of uniform for work, here's what I got:

and

I chose the first one because I'm a sucker for anything nautical, and the fact it's very figure flattering also swayed me; it's pretty cinched in at the waist and then kind of drapes around the stomach area, which is never a bad thing!

The second dress was more of an investment. I don't really own anything too 'formal' and I really loved the style. Also, as I'm only allowed these two pieces for now, I reckoned it'd be a good dress to choose as I can team it with various tops/shirts underneath and not get too bored.

Plus it has a brilliant fish-eye corset type back, regarde:

I would have chosen the lovely leopard style dress I've been lusting over but sadly as my co-worker Libby has it, I can't; we can't "advertise" the same dress. I know, right? Gotta get in there fast...

My First Day

2010-08-14T17:58:00.019+01:00

Hey gang, how are you all? Enjoying the lovely weather? (For those not in the UK, the weather here is GRIM)

So I just got in from my first day working in Whistles and I'm pleased to say it actually went really well. Everyone was lovely, The Smiths AND She & Him were played (this is only ever ever a good sign in my books) and I fell in love...

Sam Edelman clogs. I'm a recent clog convert (Chung did it!) and I've been keeping an eye out for a nice pair a while now. Sadly these babies are £135, which is far too steep for me, and sadly, as they're a brand, the proper staff discount doesn't apply to them either.

However, in slightly better news, I may have finally found my perfect leopard print dress!

Okay, so they call it "Pebble", but it's good enough for me.

Cake and Job Update

2010-08-12T17:33:00.014+01:00

The cake went down a treat! (geddit?)

On another note, whilst we were celebrating with said cake I received a phone call about an interview I recently had, and I'm pleased to say that starting Saturday I now work for the clothing store Whistles, hurrah!

Emma's Any Occasion Chocolate Cake

2010-08-11T14:07:00.039+01:00

Today is my friend Nadia's birthday, and so I've baked her a cake.

Now, I'm going to share the special secret recipe with you all, because it's just too good not to. And I'm nice. And I trust you. Keep it to yourselves though, yeah!

I warn you, though, this cake is not kind to your waist..

You will need...

200g caster sugar
200g softened butter
4 eggs, beaten
170g self-raising flour
1tsp baking powder
30g butter
30g cocoa powder
3 tblsp honey
200g dark chocolate

Now...
1) Preheat your oven to gas mark 5/190 and butter the two cake tins
2) In a large bowl, beat together the 200g caster sugar, 200g softened butter, 4 eggs, 170g self-raising flour, 30g cocoa powder and the 1tsp baking powder until you have a smooth, soft batter.
3) Divide the mixture between the two cake tins and smooth the surfaces before baking in the oven for around 20 minutes.
4) When baked, take the cakes out of the oven and place them on a cooling rack.

For the chocolate icing...
1) Heat 200ml double cream until it begins to boil, then turn down the heat and add 50g butter, 3tblsp honey and 200g chocolate broken into pieces.
2) Leave the mixture for 5 minutes to melt, stirring briefly. Once the mixture has melted, leave to cool for a while.
3) Once the mixture has thickened slightly, ice the cakes and place them together!

Easy peasy. Let me know if any of you give it a go!

L'officiel Shoot

2010-08-05T12:25:00.013+01:00

In relation to my earlier post, Ooh La La Alexa!, here are some of the beautiful photographs from the L'officiel shoot.

I love the hazyness of it all, and the Willy Wonka glasses are brilliant! The shoot has also reminded me of my need for a leopard print dress... It's been on my list for months now, but they're near on bloody impossible to find unless you're wanting a tight fitting River Island-esque one, and no one needs that. Anyone know where I could find a nice floaty style smock one?

Ooh La La Alexa!

2010-07-28T14:57:00.014+01:00

Amazing.

Snapshots

2010-07-24T20:03:00.034+01:00

She & Him.

2010-07-18T17:54:00.035+01:00

Oh they're just perfect summer listening. The new album is on constant repeat here, especially 'Thieves', 'In The Sun', 'Don't Look Back', 'Lingering Still' and 'Home'... (shut up, I had a hard time narrowing it down even to just them)

(Watch the video for their new song 'Thieves' here)

Zooey's style is just perfect too, I had proper eggshell blue wardrobe envy when watching (500) Days of Summer. I never wear blue.

How can a thirty year old woman pull off dressing like a little girl so well?

My Perfect Summer Dress

2010-07-16T17:11:00.052+01:00

This week I've had four of my friends from Bournemouth staying with me in my bedroom. It's been fun, but also a bit like when you go on a mini holiday with your family in too-cramped, too-hot caravan...

On their first day up we went and did some proper typical touristy shopping on Oxford St; Urban Outfitters, H&M, American Apparel, Topshop, Beyond Retro, and they bought lots and I got envious and before I knew it I was buying this dress:

It's Dahlia and I found it in Topshop, in the concessions department downstairs; the rest was history. I love the Cath Kidston-esque print, the 1950s cut, the canvasy material, all of it.

I gave it its first outing to a gig last night; saw 6 Day Riot preview their new album in the tiny cellar of The Laughing Monkey in Shoreditch which was a really sweet little intimate gig. High high highly recommended!

(picture courtesy of Michael East)

Hello!

2010-07-15T15:26:00.022+01:00

Thought I better quickly introduce myself before I throw myself into this blogging lark.

I'm Emma, I'm nineteen, and I recently moved from my hometown of Bournemouth (seaside town on the south coast) to live in London (captial of-- well, you know) with four of my friends. I've entertained the idea of starting a little blog for a while now, but for various reasons I've never really gotten round to doing it... hoping to change this from today.

Here goes!7