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

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! 

Pasch. Glorious

Ooooh! Celebration....

• Jesus Christ
• Festival.
• 4-day weekend
• Clocks go forward (UK)
• Chocolate and sweet stuffs galore!

It's fair to say I am very much looking forward to a much overdue chillax weekend. An opportunity to recharge batteries is always welcome. It's also lovely to know that the days to follow will become longer, brighter and (hopefully) warmer!*

Eat. Drink. Celebrate and live merry.

Thanks Katy Hussey for this unique image! 

However you're choosing to spend your weekend...enjoy and be blessed!

*we can only dream!

HTB tho...UK Talent is where it's at!

Hard Time Bus - the UK indie film continually going from strength to strength!  

Written by Owen Mowatt. Dir by Dean Charles. Prod by Nicola Gregory

The lovely people at the Black British Blacklist hold the best description for HTB (Hard Time Bus); 'a multi-layered relationship drama that centers around carefree and complacent Mark Bishop (Neil Reidman). Challenged by his commitment to long-time girlfriend Denise (Naomi Ryan) he turns to best friend Fitzy (Roger Griffiths) for advice only to be ridiculed for not following the ‘Fitzy Rules’ – “never marry and never settle”.

HTB has a variety of characters that audiences can express empathy for.. Having been voted Best Film at the Hollywood Black Film Festival, it's fair to say the industry are sitting up and taking notice!

I successfully auditioned for the role of Carla, a character I really enjoyed playing! 

One of HTB's many unique attributes is that it's told from the male perspective. The viewer is afforded an insight into how other people's opinions, especially that of a modern-day bromance, can impact and ultimately affect ones long-term relationship.

Since filming, I've been afforded the opportunity to not only discuss the film and its themes on BBC Radio London, I also got to attend the recent screening at London's Regent Street cinema & be included on the Q&A panel.

With Michael,  Neil, Darren and Kojo
Thanks to Kush Films for such a great evening, and Jenni Steele for hosting the event

Make sure you go see Hard Time Bus when its on general release! 

J & J matrimony

Love. party and a blessed union. Seriously, who doesn't love a wedding?

I gladly accepted an invite to a wedding party earlier this month, and had the best time of drinking, dancing, eating and enjoying fantastic company that when I did eventually get home, I didn't rise out of bed until 7pm the following evening...I know!

This particular event was held in Central London, the Hippodrome to be exact. As I knew I was going to be safely indoors of one of the UK's most beautifully historical buildings, my next dilemma was 'what to wear'.

I'm sure I'm not alone when I say men have it easy when it comes to such events; suit & tie or the occasional dickey bow, us ladies on the other hand have PLENTY to think about:

• if I go high street, will somebody else be wearing MY outfit?
• dress, pant suit or jump suit?
• what type of heels will get me through an evening of standing, dancing and posing?
• what if I party TOO hard and lose my jewellery? 

Sooooo much to think about! 

Shout out to the lovely people at Dark Sugar - delicious! 

The clutch is from the beautiful selection at Bag Servant and all the rings are from Top Shop.

                        

My dress is from Flam Mode - a ready to wear stockist based in France. With its 'blinged- up' sewn on deep neck collar, it's perfect for special occasions.. Shoes are from Dorothy Perkins I find their selection is a winner, especially when you are looking for comfort and edge at a sensible price.
 

With a careful mix of high street and designer, I think I curated a wedding-worthy outfit which is perfectly on point for partying the night away in the best city in the world...biased, I know!

What type of ensemble would you wear to a wedding party? 

Love and thanks to Katy Hussey for such great images

Sharing is....

Shout out to all my Bizzy Bees!

For those who are not aware, I'm a writer/actor who is also launching their own beauty-line...yep! 

So as a freelance creative, I came across a mantra which I firmly believe in - 'you have to think of yourself as a business, else you'll run out of business'.

In regards to the acting profession, items such as CV's (resumes) voice-reels and show-reels need to be in place so that if *when* opportunity knocks...you're ready!

so with this in mind, I've recently updated my showreel and I thought I'd share with you lovely lot....

Enjoy! 

Spring time and a happy song...

Hip Hip Hooray...Big up March. April. May!

Spring IS my favourite season - warmer weather, (slightly) longer days and the budding of blooms en masse. Oh yeah, and my birthday is in April....time for Celebration!! What's not to love?!

Shout out to Katy Hussey for this beaut illustration - J'adore!

I hope your year is progressing as you hope? Just remember...Every step, however small, is progress. Just keep it moving forward closer until you're living your dreams....Cheesy Cheery sounding, but oh so true!  

February 14th – Say you’ll be…

Oh St Valentine – how you tease me so…

So.... ‘Tim from Accounts’ didn’t quite work it (oh well, his loss) but me, being the ever optimistic creature that I am, firmly believes that everything happens for a reason.

With February 14^th falling on a Sunday wouldn't you agree that the usual 'pressure' of one-upmanship was slightly...off? So, all singles (that didn’t wanna mingle) might have re-classed the world’s romantic day as ‘duvet day’. For those coupled up, I’m sure your special day was detailed up with loveliness.

If  like me you heart Paisley print, keep the bottom half neutral.
*Statement dress alert!*

I ended up being asked out on a rather lovely luncheon, so the outfit I selected felt perfectly romantic for a day date.

This dress was a birthday gift many moons ago. I've come across a similar print and style here. 

I adore an ornate ring.
For comparable beauties have a look here and here.

Clutch bag is Marc by Marc Jacobs. Polyvore have some fantastic pre-owned pieces.
Also check out ASOS where there are a rainbow of colours and styles. 

However you celebrated February 14th (single or ensconced up) just love and enjoy yourself....you're an original after all!   

All images shot by the talented Katy Hussey 

  

Malta's got me like....

'To holiday or not to holiday'

To some, this statement might be odd, but it's usually what runs through the mind of a freelance creative.

This is quickly followed by:

• Can I afford it?
• Where should I go?
• Can I afford it?
• How long should I take off?
• Can I afford it?
• What if a work gig comes up whilst I'm away?
• Can I afford it?
• Sun/Sea or City Break?
• CAN I AFFORD IT?!

Fact - Breaks are essential to one's health. Regardless of where you live in the world, and what you do for your day to day existence...Breaks are paramount to your psyche

A lovely friend of mine recommended Malta, so off I went! By myself! First time solo traveller! 

Pretty Bugibba. January is still 't-shirt' warm so I was able to benefit from a vitamin D top-up

Rocking my beaut Chanels. I've had these for eons, but I've spied the same here. The beach cover-up is from H&M. you can get similar here and here

My favourite capture.

Shot in Valetta (Malta's capital) by a lovely lady who was happy to take this pic, despite both of us standing in the middle of the road. Don''t try this at home.

I'd definitely recommend Malta for break. What destinations would you recommend? Which countries are on your wish-list?

#Sweet16

Happy New Year! 

C'mon, January, let's be having you...

Herald 2016! A sweet sounding year that, for many, signifies the emergence of progression, innovation and positive transitioning.

So if you're reading this and it's made you think about an idea or hobby you've always wanted to try, a career you've dreamed of having, or an update of your new personal style...make this year THE YEAR you're going to take a step closer towards it. 

It's your #Sweet16 after all!

The grey coat is from H&M. Boots, belt and clutch were gifts, but you can get similar here, here and here,

Big Love & Thanks to super talented Katy Hussey for this fab illustration. More to come. Watch this space.

Jump to the beat...!

Oh 2016....I’m ready....so let’s start you off with a bang…New Year’s Eve aka PARTY TIME!!

I’ve been blessed to have experienced and celebrated New Years in a variety of ways. From romantic meals for two to a ten-course banquet (tough, but I managed). From hugging and kissing complete strangers in Trafalgar Square (my mis-spent youth) to raving it up at the nightclub du jour, not to mention copious house parties around the world.

This year, I shall be celebrating the arrival of 2016 with my girlfriends at an event in Camden, London and rather than wear a tried and trusted frock, I’ve decided to don a jumpsuit.

A couple of jumpsuit benefits:

·    It suits any shape/height/size. It really doesn’t matter about your body type, this item flatters all.

·    With the right accessories such as belts, shoes and scarf the same jumpsuit can serve you for casual day & glamorous night.

My guess is that you would prefer not to dislocate a limb when putting on/taking off said garment? So make sure your jumpsuit is not skin-tight. 
A jumpsuit always looks more glamorous and polished when it’s draped loosely over the body, skimming your curves. This will allow a rather lovely silhouette and also help prevent the horror of camel toe…never a good look.

Jumpsuit is from George at Asda....I know!

The envelope clutch is from House of Fraser Therapy range. It's out of stock now, but you can get similar here and here. The wedge boots are from River Island.

                

Jewellery is from H&M. Make up is from Fashion Fair. 

Whatever you choose to be your ultimate outfit for the ultimate party night, and however you choose to celebrate....I  wish you a lovely time celebrating and a prosperous new year. See you in 2016! XO

P.A.R.T…..Y? Cos it’s Christmas and I gotta!

Seriously, where has 2015 gone?! 

It never ceases to amaze me that after February it feels as if the rest of the year just disappears. This, I’ve been informed, is a sign of getting older…wiser.

However, it does mean I’m to be blessed with festivities, soirees and gatherings aplenty. Including the big one….drum roll please….the STAFF CHRISTMAS PARTY!

I do recall, back in the heady days of summer, that I was indifferent about putting in an appearance. But after hearing from a reliable source that ‘Tim from Accounts’ will definitely be attending, I quickly confirmed my RSVP. Yes…I know.

Actually, a show of hands please for anyone who has been making eyes/exchanging small talk with their very own Tim/Tina/Toto? It is officially….TIME!

I’m sure I don’t need to remind anyone (least of all myself) that accepting the invite means a night involving:

·         Food (possibly)

·         Alcohol (better be)

·         Colleagues (undoubtedly)

·         Pictures appearing online (definitely)*

*This combination should not result in antics that cause you; to become an ‘Urban Legend’, HMP incarcerated or a recipient of your P45 come Monday. Decorum is vital.

So, outfit wise, I’ve chosen the (sensible) option of sticking to a typical work outfit but with closer attention to accessories.

The leopard print on the ankle boot/ clutch uniform the khaki, yet compliments the H&M gold accessories. Boots, belt and clutch were gifts, but you can get similar here, here and here,

The grey coat from H&M is a perfect length to ensure the dress is covered, and is also warm enough for the chilly streets of London Town.

Not only is this khaki dress a supermarket purchase (shhh...Tesco) the V-neck gives an ideal amount of cleavage; perfect if, like me, you are the proud owner of a very generous cup size.

Top this all off with a red lip and a cheeky smile. Tim really won’t know what hit him….wish me luck!