(hair) parting is such sweet sorrow...

Well, I guess it had to happen eventually.

After 10 + devoted years, I've split up...with my hairdresser.
Yes! I am single...and it feels good...in an odd way.

I always envisaged growing old with G****s (my ex 'dresser.) I held many a day dream of our future together such as her -

• being the one to caress my follicles on my wedding day.
• advise me on what products to put on my first child's scalp.
• hopping on my private jet to my filming destination for the periodic steam*

Seriously, the list was endless...I had plans I tell you..PLANS!

But as with all best laid plans, reality doesn't always match the fantasy.

The red flags started waving lightly in the breeze - if she had a salon full of clients, she expected me to be the one who was happy to wait all frigging day whilst she tended to her other clients. Y'know like I don't have a life of my own or something.

I mean, G****s is a genius, and her anointed hands were able to deal with the most stubborn of follicles, however if the booked appointment is at 11:30 hrs, yet your hair-do STILL wasn't done by 17:00 hrs, its fair for your eyebrows to raise and your eyes to roll somewhat as your arse gets numb.

Then the prices starting to creep up slowly yet steadily. Over the years, G-lady developed an annoying habit of not mentioning prices with you when you booked the appointment, it was only when you were sat in her chair with your hair wet looking like a troll, she'd mention she'd used a new and improved all singing/all dancing treatment which was 'x' amount so this trip was gonna cost more than your previous time. Okay...

Another mega gripe I had was the busier she become, the ruder she became...especially towards her staff. One thing I deplore is when people in positions of power treat others (especially those who depends on you for their livelihood) like poo.

So, after overhearing one cutting and insensitive remark too many I made a mental note to bid farewell to the woman who held my hair happiness in her hands.

It was scary at the time, but change is good....Onward and upwards!

What are your thoughts on hairdressers? Do you have a regular person who oversees your locks? Comment below and let me know! xo


* I adore the environment so, probably not the best idea.

Spring time...sing time!

Purleeese tell me where is this year going?! I mean, seriously how fast are we ploughing through 2018!

The end of 2017 was extremely busy for me (yay!) which subsequently meant less blog posts then I would have liked (boo)!

But hey! New year, fresh start and I intend to start as I mean to go on, especially now we are officially in March and apparently a new season is upon us. I say apparently, as anyone who lives on these British Isles will confirm how chaotic life was when the Beast from the East came over to play.

Anyways, moving swiftly on *cough*...What happens when the weather has warmed up, but it's still  not warm warm? Obviously tights stay ON and, for me, said tights are opaque from M&S. 

I cannot praise M&S enough for their tights; they hold their shape, colour and rarely snag - proper value for money! 

My floral print jacket, I feel, is a decent nod to Spring. The boxy shoulder style and print is also funky enough to team up with this beautiful silver skirt, pleated skirt, regular blog readers will know how much I luuurrrvvveee a pleat! 

Photo credit - Katy Hussey. 

     As this outfit is perfectly edgy downtime/weekend day attire, comfy shoes and a crossover bag with a long strap are useful accessories...it also allows your hands to become available for things like...erm food! lol!  Top with some funky make up and you're good to go!

 I tell you what, going back to the topic of weather (Hey I'm British, I can't help but bring it up) I am really hoping this Summer brings the heat, or I might just end up moving to a country where the weather does really suit my clothes...there's a song in there somewhere ;)

Comment below to let me know how your wardrobe is embracing the different season, I'd love to know xo

D D and all that..

Shoes are from the ever so lovely range at Dorothy Perkins.

So, there I was plodding along with life, thinking everything was hunky-dory, when out of the blue a friend of mine shockingly confessed a dislike....for denim dresses. WOW!

 To say I was taken aback was an understatement - how can you not like denim in dress form? She then went on to explain her reasons whilst using words like rodeo, cowboys, stetsons, soccer mom ...seriously, you could have knocked me down with a feather duster!

Dress is from F&F range, bag is by Alexander Wang and the scarf is a vintage find!

Which got me thinking...how often do I see people in my life wearing denim dresses? Am I really the only one in my circle of friends who wears such a thing?

Thank you, Katy for such beaut images.

Undeterred (yet oh so determined to prove a point), I went through my wardrobe and found one of my three denim dresses. Now, usually I wear this beautiful garment with my allstars, but seeing as I my vanity and pride were at stake, I decided to challenge myself to *jazz up* my usual dress with some heels, a neck scarf and some lippy.

 I wore this on a night out with friends (including Ms Denim Detester herself) and the amount of compliments almost made me forget the reason why I deliberately wore said dress in the first place.

Over to you my, beloved readers -

• What are your views on denim dresses?
• Is there a garment which you have very strong views about? 

Comment below and let me know x

It's a London thing.....Beautiful neighbourhood(s)

WOW!!...I mean Ooops!!

Has it really been over 6 whole months since my last post? Please accept my profound apologises, I'll ensure never to leave such a large gap again....promise

I hope you've all been keeping over during this time? Life for me has been very productive with some rather lovely significant breaks.

I was conversing with various friends about moving houses, buying property and living in new areas, and even though I've been invited to view said new homes, I haven't actually pulled my finger out and made the effort *hang my head in shame*.

It also got me thinking how my fellow Londoners, apart from work, generally stay in their own manors/yards/hoods for rest and play. Seriously, I don't know if it's because we're generally overworked, tired, poor, or just lazy, its a sad fact that once we've plonked our butts in a location, we rarely venture away more than a bus ride away...unless we're leaving the country or something.

Greater London in a colourful nutshell.

Geography even affects how Londoners date. I'll be the first to admit that when a new guy comes into my life, some of the initial thoughts that pop into my head include...

"How many tube changes to get to/from his place"

 "Will I have to travel via central"

"Is his neck of the woods overly susceptible to the dreaded rail replacement bus"

Like I say...so many Questions...so many miles!!

I mean genuine LDR (Long Distance Relationships) i.e if your other half lives/works in, say, New York is undoubtedly Romantic (with a capital R) but residing in the same city but living in SW when you reside in NE? Forget that! That's just long! Way too inconvenient and traumatic!

What do you think of relationships and distance? Good or pointless? Comment below and let me know. xo

Goals and 4th Quarter Living...

4QL

Shout Out to the epic man Eric Thomas aka the Hip Hop Preacher! If you haven't already heard of him, please check him out for he is a true inspiration. 

I also believe he originally coined the term '4th Quarter Living' as in you've started the game (or in our case, the year) and as we approach the end of another year, it's time to finish off STRONG!

2016 has been a true eye opener...but we are still here! There are only a few weeks left of the year, and with the weather changing, it feels all too easy to go into 'hibernation' mode. 

But from past experience, I know the impact of doing/thinking in such a manner will make it harder to find gusto for when it's needed. So instead, I'm asking myself...what can I do NOW that will encourage 2017 to start with a BANG?? 

It's getting colder, but my thoughts are bright and sunny!
Thank you Katy Hussey for this beaut illustration xo

The adage 'Dress for the career you want, not for the one you have', is self-explanatory. I mean, how can you expect to get to where you want to be if you're still doing the same thing...but expecting dramatically different results?

Thinking about the lifestyle I currently have to what I aspire to live, it's a no-brainer that the simplest to kickstart this would be to just get up earlier. This way, I can execute my daily plan more effectively and fit in more order to bring my dream a little closer....that much quicker.

But, I hear you ask...how do I know I'm actually doing more? Well, only time will tell....

What are your thoughts on 4th Quarter Living and working something into existance? Comment below and let me know xo

Lights, Camera...Action

Dream. Believe. Achieve...

Well, I've had an idea for a film for quite sometime now. It came out of the blue, when I was busy making myself a cuppa at my day job. Standard procedure.

My colleague/friend took the opportunity, to accompany me to the little kitchen, to fill me in on some office gossip...I know, I know.

As I waited for the kettle to boil, she had me guess (successfully) who the topic of the day was about. 

Rummaging around in the cupboard for teabags, I thought this little scenario would be the perfect setting for a film. 

The way my mind works sometimes astounds even me.

Fast forward a few months, I took the plunge to put my little idea into action. 

As I'd written and produced the piece, the next natural step might have been to plop myself in front of the camera. 

But if I'm going to be honest, I thought I'd instead use the opportunity to explore other realms of the industry.

So for this particular project, I was writer/ director and producer.

I felt, not only will it give me a greater understanding of the different duties on a film set, I could focus on exacting the vision that was in my head. 

Thankfully, the actors I approached agreed to the project, as well as a super fabulous and knowledgeable crew on board.

We shot in one day and the editing for both film and trailer* took place a few weeks afterwards. #QuickTurnAroundMuch?!

All stills taken by Shot By Tops

Big love and thank you to everyone involved for your talents, patience and great on-site vibes ....xo

Summer Dreams...

That was quick! Summer, I mean ;-)

As the UK approaches Autumn, it's fun to look back at recent fun times....such as 'Making like a Tourist in London' day!

From taking a rickshaw on Westminster Bridge, braving the intense crowds at the London Eye to almost getting drenched at Southbank's Fountain, truly glorious times were had.

As I had plans for the early evening (in the opposite direction from where I live) and also a mental note to adhere to a casual/smart dress code.

Digressing slightly...I cannot think of a single person who appreciates being advised' dress casual/smart'...I mean, it's hardly helpful is it! It can be frustrating and time consuming picking a suitable outfit!

 Anyways, I think I hit the nail on the head with this dress! 

This amazing book clutch is from a selection at TK Maxx....seriously roomy!
and the sandals are from River Island 

For me, it ticks multiple boxes - 

• just above knee length
• floaty sleeves (covers top of arms)
• v-neck
• material thin enough so I can wear with a jacket (thinking Winter wardrobe)
• And the best part...it's a supermarket buy! Yes, I got this glorious frock from Tescos Florence & Fred range.

When in doubt, blow your own trumpet! 

For this day it was perfect attire to see me through day and night. Accompanied with my Gap trench coat...just in case the weather changes suddenly...trust me when I say UK weather can change at the flick of a switch.

What's your favourite Summer memory? Comment below and let me know xo

Those lines tho...

Mount of Jupiter is going IN... 

So, last weekend I had my hands palms read, and trust me when I say....what I was told is goooood! 

Thank you Katy Hussey for such a beautiful illustration :-)))

There are many people who throw shade at Palmistry,  which I'm cool with (each to their own after all).

Some of the things I find intriguing/appreciate about palmistry is -

•  it's to be treated a a guide or suggestion, not a depiction of how your future is definitely going to be set
• the lines on your hands tend to change over the course of your life.
• it can encourage more positive thoughts about your life decisions. (Especially when your career is within a precarious industry). Your thoughts become your things, after all!

So, as we are already in the eighth month of 2016 (gulp) I truly hope your hopes and dreams are still progressing steadily along. 

What do you think about Palmistry? 

How are your plans coming along? 

I'd love to know, so comment below! xo

The 4 Fs.....

Erm....I'm talking about Festivals, Fringes, Fun and Frills.....

If you thought anything else from the title then oi oi!*




Bodycon dress is from Forever 21 and
the sandals are from TK Maxx

So far, touch wood, Mother Nature has blessed the UK with some really lovely rays. There really is nothing better than stepping out of your front door and feeling as though you've been hit a radiator.

 

And with the heat comes a wardrobe edit. Gosh! Summer fashion is a dream, isn't it! Seriously...anything goes! 

 

During the week (when I'm busy at my day job) I have to take into account -

1. commuting

2. commuters 

3. public transport.

 

Not to mention striving to look pro and on the ball....evenings and weekends however are a different story....hehe!

 

 

 

Silver bib necklace is from a selection at good old Topshop

 

I definitely am a fully fledged  member of  #TeamCurve. However, there have been a time (in the past) where I've deliberately covered up my assets.

This  was partly down to wandering/unwelcome eyes from strangers, but c'mon! We live in a visual, nosy and oversharing age, and quelle surprise....

 PEOPLE. DO. STARE.

But really, it's mostly down to (my own) body insecurity.

But this way of thinking is very damaging, and the only person who is going to end up hurt is yourself.

 

 

 

Thank you Katy Hussey for such lovely images...xo

 Now that I'm older, wiser, sophisticated and worldlier (a legit word?) it occurred to me that if you're going to spend time thinking about yourself, strive to make these thoughts loving and positive! 

 

The world is tough enough as it is, so does it really make any sense for you to be your own biggest enemy? No, of course not.   

The large grey clutch is from TK Maxx and the
Suede look Fringe Waistcoat is from George at Asda...shh....

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Get out in the sunshine, meet up with old friends, make new one's. Have some good times and fantastic memories.

Seriously...life is good when you choose to make it good.

Remember always....life is about ENJOYING YOURSELF!!

















* you can take the girl out of Essex....

It's Art's fault...seriously!

“Don’t think about making art, just get it done.  Let everyone else decide if it’s good or bad, whether they love it or hate it.  While they are deciding, make even more art.” Andy Warhol

By now, you'd have probably gathered that I am a lover of Art and Creativity. As well as devising my own, I appreciate what others create and share.

So, I was extremely fortunate when my good friend Sonja gifted me a VIP pass for the recent Photo London event. It's fair to say modern society uses images to document virtually every aspect of daily life, therefore it makes sense for there to be an exhibition!

Now in its second year, Photo London was held (mainly) at Somerset House and featured works from over 80 artists and galleries from around the world. The amount of works was just so vast, I ended up going four times (twice with friends). 

A week since, I would go as far to say my mind and soul feels 'full' after this event - not only from the pieces I got to view but also from making time out of my busy schedule to attend in the first place. There is certainly a romanticism about soaking up art in peace as the rest of the city continues along in its speedy fashion. Also, because art is so subjective it can be enjoyed by many people from different walks of life.

Anyways, enough words! Just enjoy some of the many, many images.....you're welcome! 

Don McCullin's beautiful work

Encapsulating work by Tania Antoshina

Natasha, Manager at Rolf Art showing me and my friend Agnes some wonder work.

Agnes is really taken by this moving image (Marcos Lopez). 

Muhammad Ali - by Thomas Hopeker

Flore - a collection from Choses vues au Royaume de Siam

Adama - vibrantly brilliant image by Omar Victor Diop

Saut d'Eau, Haiti

What is your favourite piece of art? Do you attend galleries? Comment below, I'd love to know! xo

Working 9 to 5...

Or even 6....

Sooo...let's have a cheeky peek at pieces that are gonna work, work, work, work, work for you. Day or Night. Weekend or Weekend.

Have you ever lusted after a piece of clothing, but couldn't justify the price tag? Even after resorting to calculating cost per wear, you still hesitate about purchasing?

I had this exact dilemma when it came to the purchasing items for my day job. Digressing slightly...There is nothing romantic about starving or fretting about the roof over your head. So while pursuing a career, particularly in a creative industry (where supply exceeds demand) it makes sense for your purse and sanity to have a day job to pay the bills.

My day job is slap bag in the middle of the City (yes, I is a bonefide City Slicker) therefore attire is crucial. 

I came across a really lovely pleated skirt in a designer sale. My lust was so full-on that I actually left the shop (yep, risked the beloved item being sold) to seek guidance in a 'where's-your-head at' latte. I went back to the shop thankfully it was still there (phew) so I whipped out the plastic, paid up and left with my new garm.

An expresso martini is calling me. Be rude not to answer...

And my instincts were spot on! The skirt makes a regular appearance in my weekday wardrobe, and the bestowed compliments got me thinking... how can I incorporate its loveliness into a weekend outfit and/or after work drinkies (a favourite British tradition) with friendly colleagues?

I decided to edge up the look with a Topshop denim shirt and a beautiful clutch from Jocasi

 

The lips T-shirt is from Truffle Shuffle and my lovely Converse are from of the All Star Dainty range.

I think I did a successful job in 'dressing down' a work skirt for play. Is there a wardrobe item that you enjoy wearing for work/play? Comment below and let me know xo

Thank you Katy Hussey for such vibrant images!

The Sun has got his hat on....

....Hip, Hip, Hip....HORAAY!!

Gosh! What a difference a lil sunshine and warm weather can make!

St Paul's as my latest hat..cough!

Do you know what's better than the sun making an appearance? The sun making an appearance when you live in the best city in the WORLD!

Granted, I am a Londoner therefore (unashamedly) biased, but it's fair to say most would agree that Capital life and living when the sun is out is fantastic.

From free film nights in the open air to a pop up sandy beach es along the Thames, the Big Smoke truly is a blazen.

Alongside the warmer weather, attention must be paid to the onset of *Summer Wardrobe* (gulp). After a season of duvet sized coats and opaque tights, wearing lighter/less garments to facilitate warmer weather *can* be daunting. But fear not! Help is at hand….you’re welcome 

Shhh...Pink batwing top is from Primark....I know!

I've layered an orange top beneath and this is from Tesco F&F range.
The leggings are from Topshop. The Celine inspired loafers are from the selection at River Island.

Longchamp's Le Pliage is a firm favourite of mine. As well as being a timeless classic, it's a practical roomy size and can be folded up. Great investment!  

Yes, it is me in the midst of foamy bubbles...what can I say? You missed out!

Comment below to let me know YOUR favourite season and why! 

Thank you Katy Hussey for such fab images!