FASHION SLANT

First and Forever

2012-01-29T07:33:00.000-08:00

Popped along to Exposure PR to watch and exclusive screening of Dr. Martens' campaign film, First and Forever. Starring the gorgeous Agyness Deyn, guests were encouraged to join the #firstandforever trend on Twitter. A great example of cool, honest, interesting marketing.

VW Heaven

2012-01-28T12:51:00.000-08:00

Loved this tent I saw at the Top Drawer tradeshow. Like, the ONLY thing that would persuade me to camp again. Actually, it would need a pure silk sleeping bag inside too. And a bottle of champagne. And maybe David Gandy.

I Heart this Shade

2012-01-26T12:46:00.000-08:00

Mmm Nails Inc Park Lane is lovely. Excuse my very non-hand-model-y fat thumb.

"I'm so hungry, I'm sniffing Cheddars"

2012-01-25T12:56:00.000-08:00

The Dukan diet has started to do strange things to my head. Namely, that I have started to sniff food. No, really. I can't eat it, but by gads I can sniff it. Take these Cheddars, for example. I inhale, I remember, I try to forget. In all honesty, I caved and ate one. What? I'm only human. It's torture in the workplace, otherwise. Besides, cheese is protein.

Talking Heads

2012-01-25T12:38:00.000-08:00

Love these mannequin heads I spotted in Spitalfields market! What a cool way to showcase your favourite specs!

Dry Shampoo - Tried and Tested

2012-01-19T03:44:00.000-08:00

The last time I used dry shampoo was at Glastonbury and I fear my hair was two days past the point of no return. The experience put me off so I haven’t bothered with the stuff since. With all the new formulas on the market, I thought it was about time I gave it a second chance.

Batiste Dry Shampoo
A hint of colour for medium & brunette
£4.28 for 150ml

This one gave my hair a nice texture and it smelt nice, like cocoa. Simple and effective. A great price too.

http://www.batistehair.co.uk/

Label.m Brunette Dry Shampoo
£10.50 for 200ml

A great product. Made for brunettes, it dispenses with the overpowering scents of it’s high street counterparts and instead opts for performance with a clean, mildly alcoholic scent which is in no way unpleasant. I have been using this on freshly-washed hair too as it gives such a great matt texture. On the packaging, it says you can use it if you apply too much product, eg. serum. Handy!

http://www.labelm.com/

Refresh & Revive
Dry Shampoo
Limited Edition Erdem
£6.26 for 150ml

Every Fashion Editor’s favourite, Erdem, collaborates with hair maestro Charles Worthington on this wonder product. Its fresh, slightly masculine scent makes me want to use this all the time. A great incentive to stop washing your hair every day (which everyone says is bad for it!). The label on the front peels back to reveal styling tips – nice touch.

http://www.charlesworthington.com/

Charles Worthington Act Dry Shampoo
Balancing Act
£5.19 for 150ml

The packaging looks very feminine chic, and the smell is sweet floral that lingers (in a good way) in such a way that I decided not to spray any perfume! So good looks aside, in it’s the inside that counts and I rate this higher than (dare I say it...) Batisse! It doesn’t give your that white powder effect that is obviously covering the greasy bits, but has a more ‘hairspray wet’ feel that dries quickly to give a natural clean look, and so far it’s wearing well (no top ups required).
I’d recommend this but it costs a little more than I would usually pay. _Ruth Pepler (24)

http://www.charlesworthington.com/

Aesop Opens in Soho

2012-01-14T10:09:00.000-08:00

I first became familiar with Aesop when I tried their amazing Parsley Seed Cleanser. They’re currently celebrating their 25th year in business and are known for their ‘no muss, no fuss’, practical approach to skincare (and gorgeous monochromatic packaging). Each product is designed to target the skin’s specific needs without all the scientific hullaballoo that so many other brands boast.

Despite being vaguely familiar with the brand, I had never actually visited one of their shops, so when I was invited to visit their latest opening, I jumped at the chance. The location is really fab – it’s right in the heart of Soho (41 Lexington Street, to be exact) and is handily near one of the nicest coffee joints, Fernandez and Wells.

The design of the shop is bright and mildly clinical, but no so much that you feel like you’re making the place look untidy by being there! It has been designed by the sextet at Ciguë, the Parisian studio which also created Aesop Le Marais and Aesop Merci in Paris. All white enamel and stone, it’s worth visiting as an interiors lesson alone. Another nice thing about the shop? The staff are friendly and genuinely know their stuff. When faced with what seems like acres of very similar-looking glass bottles, it is easy to feel a bit bemused, but there’s always an expert to help guide you towards skincare perfection.

As I was there, it would have been rude not to try some of the brand’s new products! I came away with Petitgrain Hydrating Body Gel and Control. A light, toning gel, the gorgeous-smelling Petitgrain product is quickly absorbed into the skin and is perfect for soothing skin burned by the sun or recovering from a quick razor-job. I plan to keep mine in the fridge in summer and apply it after a long day at the beach (come on summer, hurry up!). I know the term gets bandied around a lot, but after using a few times, I would consider Control to be a ‘wonder product’. As someone who suffers from the occasional breakout, this anti-blemish gel is going to be a mainstay in my handbag. Containing Salicylic acid, Vitamin C and essential oils, it tackles your spots quickly, effectively and, most importantly, invisibly.

If there’s one thing my heaving bathroom cabinet does not need, it is more products but, as always, I am powerless to resist and intend to expand my Aesop collection in the future. Cool, stylish skincare that works – what more could you need? A bigger bathroom.

Revlon Competition Day

2012-01-12T15:43:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the photos I took on the Revlon/Britain's Next Top Model competition day!

The Big Win!

2012-01-11T07:01:00.000-08:00

So often, I view competitions with cynicism; does anybody ever really win them? Then, one dreary boring Monday, I opened my inbox and saw that I had! A while ago, I entered a Revlon competition on their Revlon UK Facebook page. Not only had I won a competition; I had won an amazing one. I was to spend the day with Jade Thompson, the recently crowned Britain’s Next Top Model. I had no idea what to expect so imagine my delight when I checked into the Mayfair Hotel on Monday night and found a brand new Mulberry Alexa handbag and £500 of House of Fraser vouchers waiting for me! After a really good night’s sleep and a dinner consisting of the finest articles from Marks and Spencer’s Food Hall, Kate from Revlon, Jade, my friend Sarah and I all sat down to a fine breakfast in the hotel’s Quince restaurant. We were given a bumper bag full of Revlon goodies and were then introduced to Nick the photographer and Stuart the driver. We were taken for arelaxing massage at 5-star hotel Baglioni (previous guests include Jay-Z and Beyonce) and then went shopping in House of Fraser with £500 worth of vouchers! I was tempted by a dress in Miss Selfridge but decided it looked much better on Jade in their Christmas campaign! Matching peace sign earrings were purchased though. After a rather yummy afternoon tea, the lovely Stuart drove us back to the hotel (with some really good London facts on the way home) so Sarah and I could have our make-up done by talented make-up artist Cat Parnell. The day ended with a beautiful meal at Aqua Kyoto (located just off Regent Street) with stunning Japanese Velvet pear cocktails, foie gras sushi and truffled cabbage with saffron. Delicious. It’s really hard to pick just one highlight, but let’s put it this way: unless they come up with a brand new 'morbidly obese' category in next year's Britain's Next Top Model, I think it's fair to assume that I may not be eligible for entering. This disappointment aside, I can sleep soundly, knowing that I have certainly eaten some of London's finest foods. This will honestly go down in history as one of the best days of my life. The only thing is, I am finding it quite hard to readjust to my normal routine. The tube? Where’s my driver? And what the heck is work?

Jade looking gorgeous

I get fashion tips from Britain's Next Top Model

The dress Jade wore in her Miss Selfridge photoshoot (it looked better on her!)

Sarah and I get comfy before afternoon tea at Baglioni

Jade and Sarah peruse the menu

Mmm so delicious!

Photos courtesy of Nick West for Revlon

New Year’s Reservations

2012-01-10T09:57:00.000-08:00

Normally, I am not a fan of word fusions but for me, ‘Banuary’ sums up this month of deprivation more accurately than any existing term ever could. Currently eating my bodyweight in smoked salmon and chicken (I’m on the much-lauded Dukan Diet), I find myself craving vegetables. Vegetables! Not a fat G&T or a million Quality Street for breakfast, I long for the squishy inside of a simple aubergine more than you will ever know. My other resolutions were:

-Be more patient (a pushy tube traveler ruined this one for me)
-Floss more
-Get myself down to a healthy 65kg by this time next year (way too much Christmas choc!)
-Save every month (January sales, woo hoo!)

Roll on Feb.

A Dukan dinner: beefburger, prawns, an egg, 0% fat yoghurt and a gherkin. Mmm delicious.

Happy Christmas!

2011-12-24T08:55:00.000-08:00

Thanks for reading my blog, I hope you have a lovely Christmas and a very happy new year!

Celebrate You! Embrace Balance

2011-12-22T04:40:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa,

For Christmas, I would like some more Murad products for Christmas please. I have been using the Celebrate You! Embrace Balance Christmas kit for the past week and have noticed a massive improvement in my skin. People are saying it has never looked better! My favourite product is the T-zone Pore Refining Gel which dissolves pore-clogging impurities and leaves your skin feeling smooth and looking clearer. At the moment, I am washing my face with Pom Cleanser, using the gel and then moisturizing with Energizing Pomegranate Moisturizer SPF 15 which is lovely and light.

Thanks,

Bianca

Celebrate You! Embrace Balance (Vitalic Bundle)

T-Zone Gel 60ml [full size]
Pom Cleanser 50ml
Pom Moisturiser 30ml
Pom Exfoliating Mask 2 x 7.5ml sachets
£78 Value / Price: £39.50

http://www.murad.co.uk/celebrate-you-embrace-balance

Anti-ageing for your Hair

2011-12-09T06:08:00.000-08:00

If you’re anything like me, you’ll spend a lot of time, money and effort on your skin, smothering yourself in the latest and greatest products on the market. The order in which you get ready for the day says a lot about the amount of importance you place on things. I shower, wash my hair, do my skincare routine and then cake myself in slap. If I have time, I will blow dry the front of my hair and then rough dry the rest. As you get older though, it’s not just your skin that ages, your hair does too and are affected by three environmental factors; Environmental, Thermal and Chemically-assisted. These things unfortunately mean that it’s possible for a 20 year old to have the chronological ‘hair’ age of someone who is 60! Luckily, label.m has developed ‘Therapy Age-Defying,’ a system which works by helping to repair the gaps which form inside the strands of ‘age-challenged’ hair to combat dullness and frizz.

Alix of Bohemia

2011-12-08T02:39:00.000-08:00

I really love this bohemian clothing brand. If you’re a fan of quirky prints (as I am) you won’t want to miss out. Contact info@toryturk.com or call 07984498990 for more information

http://www.toryturk.com/
http://alixofbohemia.blogspot.com/

Supperclub's 2nd Birthday

2011-11-28T09:44:00.000-08:00

I went to Supperclub’s second birthday last week. I had heard a lot of good things about it from friends and wasn’t disappointed. There were flamboyant performers, tasty cocktails and the opportunity to eat delicious canapés from a girl wrapped in cellophane!

If you’re in a pack of single girls, looking for a flirt (and maybe a kiss under the mistletoe) then Supperclub might not quite fit the bill. Revellers are stylish and lovely but the majority seemed to be homosexual.

But who’s in it just for the boys? Not me! Give me some yummy morsels and a good drink any day of the week.

www.supperclub.com

Crème de la Mer

2011-11-19T10:53:00.000-08:00

I went along to the rather glamorous Estée Lauder building last Thursday to learn about new developments with luxury skincare brand, Crème de la Mer.

Over a glass of champagne (lovely) I learnt all about the different products. Most people are familiar with the brand’s popular Moisturizing Crème but if, like me, you think a cream of this type is better suited to more mature skins, there are plenty of alternatives. The Oil Absorbing Lotion, Moisturizing Lotion and Moisturizing Gel Cream are lighter and quicker to apply but all contain the ‘miracle’ formula in the original Moisturizing Crème.

Crème de la Mer is currently offering various complimentary treatments at their counters – there is no obligation to buy and the staff are welcoming and friendly. I would recommend trying the eye care treatment I opted for. The eye creams are applied using a silver-tipped applicator, which reacts with the haematite in the eye product and encourages blood to flow to the surface for a de-puffed, glowing eye area (something I definitely need in the morning, these days!).

Yes, this kind of skincare doesn’t come cheap but if, like me, you struggle with your skin, it really is a worthy investment. Whilst you might initially baulk at the occasionally triple-figure price tags, the quality of the products mean that you need to use about a quarter of the amount of a more affordable counterpart. If used correctly, these products will last for ages and the results they manifest will surely be worth it. At the age of 26, I am starting to think seriously about my skin and beginning to think about anti-ageing. Crème de la Mer’s Moisturising Lotion is looking like a good place to start.

My favourite Crème de la Mer products:

Diane Pernet - a Shaded View on Film

2011-11-18T07:44:00.000-08:00

I have long been a fan of Diane Pernet’s blog, www.ashadedviewonfashion.com so I was excited to go along to the 3 Objectives studio (www.3objectives.co.uk) to see Pernet’s five latest fashion films and hear her in conversation with artist Hormazd Narielwalla.
I enjoyed all five films but my favourite was the first, showcasing a female bodybuilder in a tense, sexually charged environment.

Check out 3 Objectives videos here:

http://vimeo.com/32212190 http://vimeo.com/32212172

Photo courtesy of 3 Objectives. Photographer Lee Murrells took photos at the event, check out his blog: http://leemurrells.blogspot.com/.

Bastyan Pop Up Shop

2011-11-13T04:34:00.000-08:00

I went along to the launch of Bastyan’s pop-up shop on Thursday night. It looked great, everyone commented on how it looked more like a permanent shop than a pop-up. The current collection includes some amazing dresses and smart separates; perfect for Christmas parties. I was seriously lusting after the accessories too, especially the large ponyskin bag and creamy leather oversized clutches. The winter coats are gorgeous too. I could go on.

For Spring, there is an exciting ‘Collaborare’ collection. I’m most excited about Vanessa Harrington’s collaboration – Vanessa’s prints are inspired by DNA, stunning exotic flowers and butterflies. There were gorgeous scarves, cushions and even ceramics, I wanted the lot!

There were some very glamorous guests at the launch – along with Tonia (Bastyan Founder), her PR and Marketing Coordinator, Harpreet Chohan and lovely communications guru Caroline Bradley all attended.

Make sure you visit the Bastyan pop-up while you can – at the moment there are plans to close it Christmas Eve!

288-294 Regent Street
http://www.bastyan.co.uk

A Few of my Current Favourite Things

2011-11-11T08:26:00.000-08:00

These are some of the highlights from an Exposure PR press day I went to a little while ago – they represent some really cool brands such as Nike, Levis, Hunter, Toywatch and Katie Eary.

Cool Hunter wellies - the new versions of my favourite 'Festival Boot' from a while ago

The new Toywatches are less about plastic and fun pop colour, more about sophistication and gold tones.

LOVE this colour combo from Dr Martens! I want the yellow satchel but am too chicken for the hot pink boots, think black patent are more my style.

A stunning ostrich feather dress from Katie Eary

I WANT this trench! Please Katie Eary, Please?

A new range from Delphine-Charlotte Parmentier, Chanel's costume jeweller

These Terry De Havilland shoes are made to dance in

Wolsey - really cool brand, awesome photos!

My love…

2011-11-10T08:17:00.000-08:00

…Of Gordon Ramsey’s restaurant at Claridges knows no bounds. Top tip for fine dining on a budget? Have lunch there – it’s only £30 (even at weekends) and the food is beyond delicious. I took Mum to celebrate her birthday last weekend. The service is impeccable and all of the staff are brilliant (Govind is my number one favourite).

Book here: http://www.claridges.co.uk/page.aspx?id=1786

Halloween

2011-11-04T11:07:00.000-07:00

I attended two spooky parties this Halloween. The first was at White Stuff (where I work as a copywriter). These guys know how to throw a good bash and winning the dressing up competition is the aim of the game! The Creative team (where I work) went as ‘Death of the Penthouse’ with our Creative Director taking on the role of Hugh Hefner. The rest of us donned ears and robes to be dead bunnies. The most fun part was choosing our mode of demise. I chose to be the victim of a botched boob job.

The second party I went to was in Hertfordshire, in my friend’s boyfriend’s industrial estate. It was brilliant; there was a hog roast, a bouncy castle, apple bobbing, UV lights and live bands. Amazing!

Life and Soul Book Launch

2011-11-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

A little while ago, I went to the launch of Emma Forbes’ new book, Life and Soul. You might remember Emma from her Live and Kicking presenting days. The books great; packed full of ideas for cooking and entertaining. Holly Valance took a break from Strictly Come Dancing to attend. It was a wonderful launch at the Ivy with enough food and drink to sink a battleship and biccie giveaways – my favourite kind of party!

Sharon’s Nails by Zara

2011-11-02T11:00:00.000-07:00

Love Sharon’s nails this week – really want to try this colour combo but have damned tiny nail beds.

I'm on Mulberry.com!

2011-10-19T06:31:00.001-07:00

http://www.mulberry.com/#/discovermulberry/latestnews/voguefashionnightoutlondon/

Moisturisers I Love

2011-10-11T09:29:00.000-07:00

Now the weather’s turned (knew that ‘Indian Summer’ couldn’t last long), keeping your face adequately moisturised is more important than ever. Here’s a super quick rundown of my three current favourites, described in three (or a few more) words.

Super O-Mega Moisturiser £29.50 for 30ml
Rich, quickly absorbed (and smells lovely)

http://www.getsuper.co.uk/products/omegamoisture2.html

L’Oreal Revitalift 10 Repair £14.99 50ml
Rich, multi-action, anti-aging (and SPF 20)

http://www.boots.com/en/LOreal-Revitalift-Restore-10-Multi-Active-Daily-Moisturiser-SPF20-50ml_1214934/

Murad Hydro-Dynamic™ Ultimate Moisture £59.00 for 50ml
Intense hydration and dryness relief

http://www.murad.com/hydro-dynamic-moisture.jsp

Feeling Free(Shape)

2011-10-09T09:27:00.000-07:00

Just a quickie, I love KMS and their latest product reduces drying time and conditions your hair a bit too! What’s not to love! I’ve been using it before every blow dry. My hair’s big and bouncy, just the way I like it.

Free Shape Quick Blow Dry Spray £9.95 is available from http://www.feelunique.com/: http://www.feelunique.com/p/KMS-California-FreeShape-Quick-Blow-Dry-200ml

A Sky Full of Kindness, Rob Ryan Book Launch

2011-10-09T09:15:00.000-07:00

I’ve been a fan of paper-cutting hero Rob Ryan for years now so I jumped at the chance to attend the launch of his new book, A Sky Full of Kindness. In his interview with Stylist magazine, he describes the book as being “a tale of a fearful mother about to bring a child into the world in this age of anxiety."

The launch was held at 33 Portland Place, an amazing building infamous for its raunchy parties. This time though, things were kept clean (there were children present, after all) and crowds of people gathered to see the artist’s latest work hanging from the mansion’s peeling walls. The roughness of the surroundings juxtaposed wonderfully with the elegance and intricacy of Ryan’s work. The story detailed across the pages was touching, it will certainly resonate with anyone planning a family in these uncertain times. With Christmas approaching, I’ll be stockpiling these for gifts.

A Sky Full of Kindness is out 13 October (£16.99, Sceptre)

Curiouser and Curioser

2011-10-08T09:01:00.000-07:00

I toppled through the rabbit hole and ended up in Chelsea. Barts is a secret member’s club with a teapot-shaped difference.

My friend Sarah knocked on the door, the hatched opened and we entered into an evening of ‘All things Wonderland.’ The Late Night Mad Hatter’s Tea Party (in association with Veuve Clicquot) was a hive of top hats, cupcakes, sandwiches, special tea cups, teapots, and fancy dress galore. The pin-on bunny tails were my favourite.

Food was hovered up and speculation of which Made in Chelsea character we might spot was rife. Telly-star or no, A jolly good time was had by all.

Speak easy in style, Barts was recently voted 21st best bar in the UK in the Independent’s recent Best 50 Bars supplement. I recommend a visit if you like your drinking venues cosy with plenty to look at.

For more information, email info@barts-london.com

Murad

2011-10-02T05:35:00.000-07:00

Dr Howard Murad talks (about cells and things, not bright white light)

Murad wisdom

Yummy cakes!

The new Hybrids

The bloggers listen

I first discovered Murad products in Urban Retreat when I worked at Harrods (they are still stocked there). Most of my wages were spent in the pursuit of perfect skin! I got on really well with Murad’s Acne and Spots Solutions range. Since then, I’m ashamed to say I have deviated, trying out all sorts of different skincare brands and products (although it sort of goes with the territory, I suppose!).

When I heard Dr Howard Murad and his son, Jeff, had flown over from LA, I went along to the bloggers party at the Mayfair Hotel to find out about the latest Murad developments.

After watching an interesting video about the development of Murad and the effects our stressful, sedentary lifestyle can have on our skin, Dr Murad and Jeff shared some insights into their latest products. I have been using their newest moisturizer, Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisture. It’s rich and smoothing, absorbing really quickly into the skin. The new ‘Hybrids’, skin primers and under-eye products, are great too. The lightly pigmented primers are a brilliant alternative to my usual tinted moisturizer and they glide on beautifully. I love the Eye-Lift Perfector, it minimizes the appearance of dark circles and improves skin firmness by 50% in fifteen minutes. Definitely something I need these days.

Sorry for leaving you Murad, I’m a fan once more.

You can buy Murad products here:

http://www.murad.co.uk/

Boxfresh and M and P Models

2011-10-01T04:08:00.000-07:00

Mmm urban chic...

Love the graduated colour

Nice tee

My favourite was Louis!

Boxfresh has teamed up with M+P Models to find their new face. I went along to Concrete to suss it out. Not that I thought there might be some hot guys there or anything…

http://www.boxfresh.co.uk/

TRESemme Split Remedy

2011-09-30T04:02:00.000-07:00

I’ve been using the new TRESemme Split Remedy range.

My mother’s words echo in my mind: “the only cure for split ends is to chop them off.”

In my heart, I still believe this to be true (I’m not convinced hair can be repaired completely through ionic bonding) but the positive effects of this range should definitely not be overlooked. After using the range (shampoo, conditioner, intensive treatment and serum) for nearly two weeks, my hair is glossy, shiny and easier to manage. The big three requirements, you might say, are met. Both ‘professional and affordable’, I’d definitely buy these products again but will also be sticking to my regular trims. Mum would kill me if I didn’t!

www.tresemme.com

Ps. I nicked the photo from www.orfalseglitter.com thanks Saz! x

Wash-off Cleansers, Tried and Tested

2011-09-21T05:31:00.000-07:00

Ren Clearcalm 3 Clarifying Clay Cleanser £18.00 for 150ml

http://www.renskincare.com/p/3325/ClearCalm+3+Clarifying+Clay+Cleanser+

They say: ‘A purifying, antibacterial cleanser formulated to combat and help prevent breakouts and blemishes.’

I say: 'This smells good (quite minty) and feels really creamy and moisturising which is quite unusual for a cleanser designed for problem skin. It doesn’t really foam very much but there’s something quite relaxing about taking the time to massage it in. After rinsing, my face felt really moisturised but I almost felt like I needed to use a toner afterwards to refresh my skin. It’s really good at getting rid of mascara though so I’d recommend it for that. Love the packaging, the pump dispenses just the right amount of product - it looks really cool and futuristic.'

Super by Dr Nicolas Perricone Sweet Clean $30.00 for 118ml
http://www.getsuper.com/product/super+skincare/cleanser/sweet+clean.do?search=basic&keyword=sweet+clean&sortby=newArrivals&page=1

They say: ‘A gentle cleanser that wipes out dirt and makeup. Packed with Acai, an exotic antioxidant from the Amazon.’

I say: ‘Super by Nicholas Perricone is a really cool new skincare range, stocked in Boots. It’s like the friendly, less-scientifically-intimidating younger sister of the original NV Perricone range designed for older skin. I like this cleanser; it smells amazing (it contains Acai, every product in the Super range is based around a superfood) but doesn’t foam quite as well as I expected it to. It leaves my skin feeling clean and moisturised. Super.'

Aesop Parsley Seed Facial Cleanser £23 for 100ml
http://www.aesop.com/shopuk/product.php?xProd=198

They say: ‘A stimulating gel cleanser for glowing skin.’

I say: 'This is my favourite of the three. It smells absolutely gorgeous, lathers beautifully, leaves my skin feeling clean and fresh and looks good on my bathroom shelf to boot. I have but one criticism: it could do with a pump dispenser because it’s quite hard to control the amount of product you pour out. I’m trying to be sparing because I want to make this last for ages. It really is that good. I will definitely buy this again.'

Hola Ombre

2011-09-20T09:38:00.000-07:00

I love going to the Mac tent for a make-over. This time I was given a purple flick on my (tired) eye and an 'ombred' lip - graduating from deep purple to pink. Gorgeous. Please excuse my slightly spotty chin, too many toxins at the Diesel party the night before!

Making up for Diesel (and 10 magazine)

2011-09-19T09:28:00.000-07:00

I went along to the Diesel Black Gold and 10 Magazine party on New Bond Street last Friday.

As the party was for Diesel Black Gold, I thought I'd dress (and make up) appropriately...

I curled my hair with GHDs, applied black liquid eyeliner to my eyes and did the same with my lips. A slick of mulberry-coloured lipstick on top kept things moisturised. I finished with a sculpted face and defined eyebrow.

Ps. DJ for the night, Hanna Hanra (www.thebeatjuice.com) was absolutely amazing, playing classics by Destiny's Child, Lucy Pearl and En Vogue. Roland Mouret was dancing away, looking as gorgeous as ever!

We later left the party and headed for the Twenty Six magazine party in Whisky Mist - great fun.

Shamelessly Name-dropping at Marios Schwab

2011-09-19T05:42:00.000-07:00

Mr Hudson, Hurts, Kelis, Eliza Doolittle, Marios Schwab, Henry Holland, Nick ‘Grimmy’ Grimshaw, Erin o Connor, Marina and Diamonds and BB from Dirty Sexy Things (phew) all attended Marios Schwab’s super cool afterparty at the W Hotel in Leicester Square. Many inflatable animals (smuggled in from the Mulberry party at Claridges) also attended. Yes, it was a Sunday but no, that didn’t mean we didn’t party hard.

A gorgeous collection deserves a great send-off and this party, hosted by Fran Cutler, was exactly that. My final memories of the night include dancing intently with an inflatable Zebra, doing a (bad) Australian accent then eating a KFC.

Nails with the Saturdays!

2011-09-18T09:13:00.000-07:00

The Saturdays pose with their new nail varnishes and a fan

The Saturdays have launched a new nail varnish with affordable make-up brand Fashionista (stocked in Superdrug). It's called 'Magnetism Nail Lacquer' each shade is named after a Saturdays song - my favourite is Una's, Ego Green, a rich emerald shade. The girls launched the new varnish at the Soho Sanctum Hotel and, refreshingly, were really excited about the range and seemed to have had a lot of involvement with the conception of it.

The varnish gives a cool 'wave' effect - you just shake the bottle, paint two coats on. When the second coat is still wet, you just hold a magnet over the top and watch it work. It worked best on my thumbnails, I think because there's a larger surface area. Judging by the previous success of Barry M's crackly Nail Effects, I think this will do really well.

The Fashionista make-up range, including the Saturdays' nail varnishes (£6) and magnet (£3) is available to buy in selected Superdrug stores.

Toni and Guy at LFW

2011-09-17T09:06:00.000-07:00

Here I am with the lovely Samuel, who managed to turn my partied-out locks into a big, bouncy seventies-inspired extravaganza. I love it!

The First Hair Fashion Show!

2011-09-17T01:49:00.001-07:00

My photos are rubbish but just wanted to quickly tell you about Toni and Guy's 'Hair Meet Wardrobe' event on Thursday night. It was held in the BFC tent and Naomi Campbell herself introduced the concept. In a nutshell, Toni and Guy have come up with a concept involving matching high performance hair products with fashion looks. Toni and Guy is one of the main LFW sponsors so it was really exciting seeing the focus shift to them for a change. I have been using all the products from their very generous goodie bag - they are amazing!

Celebs at the show included Naomi, Olivia Palermo (my favourite), TOWIE's Lydia Bright and Amber from Made in Chelsea!

I'm about to go and get my hair done at the Toni and Guy tent, will keep you all 'posted' (groan).

Amy News

2011-09-13T03:32:00.000-07:00

The Amy Winehouse Foundation, set up by Amy’s father Mitch, launches tomorrow, on what would have been singer's 28th birthday (I still can’t believe she’s gone).

www.MoreTvicar.com is selling an exclusive Amy Winehouse tee in her honour. It’s priced at £22.99 and 100% of the proceeds will go to the Foundation.

There are five other T-shirts in the Amy Winehouse collection (also priced at £22.99). Together with the Charity Tees, they can all be viewed and purchased at: www.moretvicar.com

A Chari-tea Party

2011-09-12T06:32:00.000-07:00

Thursday September 22nd is White Stuff’s National Wear a Tea Cosy on Your Head Day. Each White Stuff shop supports its own local charity and all are geared towards helping disadvantaged children and young people.

Loads of celebrities have got involved; Henry Holland, John Rocha, June Brown (AKA June Brown) and, most recently, model Jacquetta Wheeler and Editor of British Vogue, Alexandra Shulman.

I hosted a ‘Chari-tea Party’ at my house last Saturday, raising £45 for the White Stuff Foundation.

There was a prize draw (to win a goodie bag), I did tailor-made manicures and there was a jumble sale too. We didn’t end up drinking much tea - more G&Ts! I invented a cocktail for the day, the Teacosy Tipple, which included raspberries, elderflower cordial, mint, gin and tonic.

Guests were encouraged to bring a teatime treat and a donation.

If you’d like to host a chari-tea party of your own, get some tips (and a downloadable invitation here): http://www.whitestuff.com/-aNWATCOYHD_PARTY?icn=NWATCOYH_160811_NWATCOYHD_HOME_host_a_chari_tea_party

You can donate your fundraising money to the charity here:
http://www.justgiving.com/teacosy?icn=NWATCOYH_160811_NWATCOYHD_FUNDRAISING_sponsor_your_shop

Cosies at the ready!

Kirk from TOWIE in his tea cosy

Jacquetta Wheeler

Alexandra Shulman

A chari-tea jumble sale

Becky and Saz cosy up

betty in a cosy

Charlotte wears a handmade cosy

Elly and Betty coordinate

The girls

Tara and Camilla

The teatime feast

The donations/prize draw table

Nails!

The Teacosy Tipple!

Jo susses out the goodie bag she won

Tara and Charlotte munch

Looking Reem - TOWIE Style

2011-09-11T14:55:00.000-07:00

Look reem, smell reem, be reem.

Essex girls and make-up go together like Mark and Nanny Pat’s sausage plait - very well. With this in mind, The Only Way is Essex beauty range is hitting the shelves of Superdrug and Argos. Along with the biggest bronzer I have ever seen (Essex Glow, RRP £10.00), there are affordable fun, colourful eye palettes and lip glosses aplenty. These would make fab presents for younger relatives or Secret Santa presents at Christmastime.

I attended the brand launch last Wednesday at the Soho Sanctum Hotel. Admittedly, I was keen to see the cast in the flesh but was, perhaps, slightly dubious about the potential quality of the products. Particularly, I was nervous about ‘Dazzle’ and ‘Be Reem’, fragrances for women and men respectively. Dazzle was actually not as bad as I expected – fresh and floral in a sort of ‘Charlie Girl’ way. I was actually impressed with men’s Be Reem – so much so that I am wearing it as I type this! Both fragrances are priced at £18.49 and will be available in the Fragrance Shop from October 2011.

Shut uuuuup and don’t be jel - take these products as they are intended; fun, purse-friendly reminders of the show that captured Britain’s heart.

Sam, Jess and Kirk fielded questions about the new range (it was a 'no' to vejazzle kits, sadly)

I convinced handsome Kirk to don a tea cosy in honour of National Wear a Tea Cosy on Your Head Day. Find out more here: http://www.whitestuff.com/-aNWATCOYHD_HOME?icn=wk19_autumn_launch_Homepage_NWATCOYHD

Mulberry at Vogue's Fashion Night Out

2011-09-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

Tali Lennox presents me with my wrap!

Mulberry’s Fashion Night Out was one of the best on New Bond Street. And no, I’m not just saying that because I won a Feather Friend wrap one of the half-hourly prize draws! They had Mulberry mojitos, face-painting a fortune teller, nail artists and goodie bags. Lots of fun.

I celebrate Vogue's FNO with Laura and Elly

Bastyan at Vogue's Fashion Night Out

2011-09-09T13:07:00.000-07:00

“Modern classics with a twist”

The Bastyan team invited me to join them at John Lewis for Vogue’s Fashion Night Out. Although I have only recently discovered this gem of a brand, it has quickly become one of my favourites on the high street. It has won me over with luxurious fabrics, sloping, flattering silhouettes and the best attention to detail I have seen in affordable clothing for a very long time.
Formerly Senior Designer at Whistles, Tonia Bastyan launched her brand in Spring 2010. These are clothes made to be worn for years after purchasing. The core range includes great fitting jeans, classic silk shirts and timeless coats. The dresses are more trend-led but no less elegant. Most are also extremely versatile and would work for a number of occasions.
A case in point is the silk/Lycra Tokyo dress I for the event. The design was inspired by a vintage Japanese kimono and represents Bastyan’s first experiment with print. During the day I wore it with a simple knitted cardi, a pair of opaque tights and my favourite dusty flat biker boots. When partytime finally arrived, I quickly switched my boots for skyscraper patent platforms and replaced the cardi with an infinitely more glamorous Bastyan jacket, resplendent with its hundreds of stacked matte sequins. It’s detail like this that makes an occasionally three-digit price tag simply worth paying.

I caught up with Tonia Bastyan at the buzzing Bastyan John Lewis concession to see what she had up her stylish sleeve for the future. The Bastyan founder seemed really excited about upcoming plans to collaborate on a new print collection with textile designer Vanessa Harrington, “There’ll be a selection of DNA and floral prints. It’s an opportunity to really make the clothes your own.”

www.bastyan.co.uk

“For me, it’s all about affordable luxury – giving the customer more than they expect”_Tonia Bastyan

Styles are often inspired by Tonia’s collection of vintage clothes and the Bastyan colour palette is based around neutrals, mainly chocolate brown, black and navy but for spring/summer ’12, there are plans to introduce “a beautiful vintage chartreuse and hot tomato red.”

I had the opportunity to see some of the current collection on the runway as John Lewis hosted catwalk shows at regular intervals. I joined guests including Mischa Barton at the 6.30 showing. It would have been amazing to see an outfit per brand but (I suppose because of time restraints and model numbers) clothes and accessories from different brands were mixed. I spied another favourite Bastyan dress with leather detailing at the neckline and managed to snap the model waiting backstage (see below).

A very glamorous member of the Bastyan team in the rust version of my Tokyo dress

Glam Vogue Fashion Night Out guests visit Bastyan

Vanessa Harrington makes gorgeous personalised bracelets with the Tokyo print fabric

“I am obsessed with detail”. Gorgeous details are a Bastyan staple

Autumn Beauty: Tried and Tested

2011-09-05T10:06:00.000-07:00

Autumn’s here and it’s time for a big new beauty round-up. I’ve been trying out the newest products the beauty world has to offer. Here are my findings…

Smashbox
O-Plump
£20.00 (now £18.00) for 10ml
http://www.debenhams.com/

They say “O-PLUMP is the first intuitive lip plumper that goes on clear and then reacts with your personal chemistry to turn lips your own custom shade of pink, while instantly plumping to perfection.”

I say: I’ve tried many-a lip-plumping formula in my years, so I approached this one dubiously. It had the familiar tingling sensation but I found the results to be more pronounced than with previous experiments. In terms of O-Plump turning your lips ‘your own custom shade of pink’, I can say that my lips were coloured in a flattering shade. I’m not convinced that this shade varies very much from person-to-person. Apparently it reacts with water molecules. A very scientific experiment in Islington’s Breakfast Club saw my friend and I smearing it on the plastic table cloth to see what it would do. It went on clear and turned pink. Not sure what that really proves though because (I think) plastic also contains water molecules.

Hmm. Either way, the most plumping plumping-lipgloss I have used for sometime. It feels silky, not sticky, which is always a bonus.

Skin Wisdom
Instant Benefits Eye Roll On
£7.00
Tesco 0800 505 555

They say “The new Instant Benefits Eye Roll On instantly refreshes weary eyes and reduces the appearance of puffiness and dark circles.”

I say: A refreshing start to the day. After using my creamy wash-off cleanser, I follow with my moisturizer then this. The roller makes application easy and, most importantly, doesn’t drag the delicate skin around my eyes. This is a good one for young skin (if you’re in your twenties) but I’d recommend something with anti-ageing ingredients for older skins.

Benefit
They’re Real Mascara
£18.50 per 85g
http://www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk/

They say “This bodacious breakthrough lengthens, volumizes & curls lashes for a spectacular “out-to-here” look! The long-wearing, jet black formula doesn’t smudge, budge or dry out so your luscious lashes last all day.”

I say: Brilliant mascara. It lengthens and plumps enough to make me consider replacing my old faithful Dior Blackout. The end of the brush is rounded (bit like the popular Givenchy wand) meaning you can capture the little lashes at the edges of your eyes which tend to escape a coating. As usual, with Benefit, I love the packaging. It seems the bold claims on the box (94%
saw dramatic length & volume* 90% saw base-to-tip curl* 94% saw visible lift* 100% saw long-wearing results* Results observed in a consumer panel survey) are substantiated.

Smashbox
High Definition Healthy FX Foundation
£28.50 (now £25.65) for 30ml
http://www.debenhams.com/

They say “An oil-free, weightless formula packed with anti-aging, revitalizing, and firming ingredients that work overtime to provide cellular nutrition for skin.”

I say: As soon as I used this, I knew I was onto a winner. Normally, I’m pretty loyal to Bobbi Brown’s foundations but this one gives such a smooth, silky finish that I could well be turned. Even though stress has made my skin pretty dire, a decent slick of this creamy formula in the morning definitely makes the best of a bad situation. It feels lightweight and gives a glowy, healthy-looking finish. I’ll buy this again (especially as it’s on sale at the moment!)

Ren
Tonic Moisture Mist
£18.00 for 50ml
http://www.renskincare.co.uk/

They say “A cooling and hydrating facial spray that revives and tones the complexion.”

I say: Love this. You know when it gets to 3pm in the office and you need a coffee/tea/massive Haribo fix? You’ll start looking forward to a good spritz of this lovely-smelling spray. It’s particularly enjoyable for spraying colleagues with. As well as having a bottle permanently attached to my desk, I will also be taking a bottle on the plane whenever I travel – it will be perfect for mid-flight skin revival. My only criticism is that the spray could be a tad finer (but this wouldn't stop me buying it again).

Laura Mercier
Laura Mercier Nude Lip Glacé (I trialed ‘Bare Pink’, pictured and ‘Bare Naked’)
£18.50 for 4.5g
http://www.lauramercier.com/

They say “Laura Mercier Lip Glacé is a high-shine, perfectly pigmented lip gloss with rich, long-lasting colour and brilliant shine that creates the appearance of fuller lips.”

I say: Bare Baby and Bare Naked are part of Laura Mercier’s new Nude Lip Glacé collection. I have been alternating between the two since I got them – I love both shades! I think my favourite is the slightly pinkier Bare Baby for its sixties baby doll appeal. Bare Naked is a tad chalkier in colour but would work a treat to blank out lips against a grey/brown smoky eye. Laura Mercier lip glosses are wonderfully shiny and give a really good finish. Unlike YSL’s lip glosses, Laura Mercier ones smell and taste okay too, not like pencil shavings. Bonus.

Avon
SuperShock Eyeshadow Pencil
£7.00
http://www.avonshop.co.uk/

They say “Blending easily to leave a beautiful shimmering finish, these dual-ended pencils have a creamy formula which is perfect for shading.”

I say: As I have abnormally greasy eyelids, I thought I’d better leave this one to my friend Tara to test. The golden/brown tone looked brilliant with her blonde hair and tanned skin and she said she found it really easy to use. Her only criticism was that she thought the paler shade was a bit hard and dragged a tad when she applied it. Not wanting to miss out, I had a go as well. I found the paler shade perfect for highlighting the brow bone and inner corners on my eye and, surprisingly, the warm brown colour faired extremely well on my shiny lids, staying put for far longer than I had expected. A nice compromise between cream and shadow formulas.

Bedroom Bliss

2011-08-25T10:02:00.000-07:00

There's honestly little I love more than coming home after work, putting on my 'jamas and lying on this bed. Does this mean I'm getting old? Anyway, the point of this post is not to pontificate upon age but instead is to show off my new-look bedroom. I recently added this vintage lampshade and a Chanel quote wall sticker (found on Ebay) so thought I'd display them.

Can you tell I like pink, by the way?

My bed's from Ikea, lampshade is vintage, pink disco ball - priceless.

Aforementioned wall sticker, around £10 from Ebay or you can buy them here: www.abpgraphics.co.uk. The lamp is Ikea and my chest of drawers is secondhand from my parents. I painted it hot pink.

Elly's Samba Hen

2011-08-24T09:46:00.000-07:00

My friend Elly had an amazing Samba hen party - there was dancing, dinner and drinks!

L-R Me, Jenn, Elly, Rosie and Laura

This is the Samba-inspired make-up I did for the do. I used a mixture of MUA (eyes), Mac (base), Illamasqua (lips). The lashes are by www.lalalashes.co.uk

Bit squinty here, sorry!

Close-up

My leopard nails (using Barry M and Essie)

Sharon's Nails by Wah

2011-08-23T09:43:00.000-07:00

Floral for a wedding she went to! I love them.

Love Leopard

2011-08-08T07:15:00.000-07:00

Mulberry has created a special range with travelling in mind – the Leopard Scotchgrain collection . Which is your favourite? (Click this link to see them all: http://www.mulberry.com/?om_i=emleopard&om_u=2548286171/#/storefront/c5697/c6040/)

For me, it’s a fairly simple decision; I adore leopard and love totes that fit over your shoulder…

As luck would have it, the zip on my favourite Longchamp Pliage tote is totally knackered so I actually need a new bag. This one’s a frontrunner.

The Leopard print tote is £495 and is available from www.mulberry.com

Amazing Brekkie

2011-08-02T02:03:00.000-07:00

This is my new favourite breakfast: soda break, smothered in mascapone, shove some bananas and raspberries on top and drizzle with honey. Yum.

Mirrorball Paul

2011-08-02T01:48:00.000-07:00

Saw this disco car at the weekend. You have to visit Mirrorballpaul's website - this isn't the half of it! Glittery panthers ahoy! http://www.mirrorballpaul.com/gallery

Polo Pic

2011-07-31T03:14:00.000-07:00

Lovely photographer Paul Froud papped me at the Cartier Polo (he liked my hat).

Click here to see:

http://peopleandpolo.zenfolio.com/p333084517/h1e27d9a8#h1e27d9a8

www.elizabethgaltonstudio.com

2011-07-30T02:33:00.000-07:00

These are a few of my favourite things from Elizabeth Galton’s new website. Elizabeth was formerly creative Director for Links of London.

Duppoini Swirling Butterflies Scarf £89.95 http://www.elizabethgaltonstudio.com/duppoini-swirling-butterflies-scarf-yellow.html

Claire Hynes turquoise and vintage chain necklace £175
http://www.elizabethgaltonstudio.com/clare-hynes-turquoise-vintage-chain-statement-necklace.html

Sahani Heru metallic gold and rhodium cuff £375
http://www.elizabethgaltonstudio.com/sahani-heru-metallic-gold-rhodium-cuff.html

Love, love, LOVE!

Love this tee!

2011-07-29T02:37:00.000-07:00

Ladies Raglan Sleeve Slouch Nirvana T-Shirt £45

http://www.truffleshuffle.co.uk/store/ladies-raglan-sleeve-slouch-nirvana-tshirt-from-chaser-la-p-4872.html

Brogues Ahoy!

2011-07-29T02:06:00.000-07:00

Yay! I love brogues and Church's makes some of the nicest around.

http://fashion.telegraph.co.uk/news-features/TMG8669129/Churchs-chooses-London-to-open-its-first-ladies-store.html

Gestuz

2011-07-27T05:49:00.000-07:00

Just heard about this new label, Gestuz. Launched in 2007 by Sanne Sehested Nielsen and Lene Boesen, Danish label Gestuz has a quite casual, rock ‘n roll feel. It’s sold in House of Fraser, Selfridges and online at ASOS.

Celeb fans include Rosie Huntingdon-Whitely, Keri Hilson and Kimberley Wyatt.

Baby's Got a Brand New Bag

2011-07-26T04:39:00.000-07:00

Kate Bosworth

Emma Watson

www.splashnews.com

Emma Hill and her team have given us all a brand new Mulberry bag to lust after. They describe the Carter as a ‘stand-out day-to-evening bag.’ It comes in a choice of three delicious finishes: super-soft suede, tactile croc nappa and the intricate snake-embossed printed leather.

Carter has been spotted on the arm of a few celebrity fans, including Kirsten Dunst, Kate Bosworth, Lily Donaldson and Emma Watson.

It looks like a really versatile bag – it would be a fab for work and play. I want! I want!

Style Studio 42

2011-07-26T03:44:00.001-07:00

I had forgotten about these beauty posts I wrote for Style Studio 42:

http://www.stylestudio42.com/tag/bianca-pal/

Bic ‘Just Live Your Summer’ Party – Wednesday 20th July

2011-07-22T02:38:00.000-07:00

Bic’s summer party provided welcome relief from the horrific weather in London! An oasis of colour and fun in Covent Garden, there were vibrant cocktails, those nibbly Garra Rufa fish pedicures, Zumba trials and a colour analysis corner.

I passed on Zumba (too high heels, more interested in cocktails and chatting!) and the nibbly fish (I’m super ticklish and didn’t want to flood the venue by kicking water everywhere) but both were fun to watch.

My favourite bit of the evening was the Colour Me Beautiful consultation with the lovely Angi Jones. Angi held lots of different coloured swatches to see what suited. Some were not surprises (I already love wearing electric blue, for example) but I’ll definitely be trying to wear more chocolate and green! If you want to have a colour analysis with Angi, it costs £125 and you get a wallet of swatches to take away with you – it’s a worthy investment in style! You can book an appointment with her through her website: www.angijones.com.

On another note, I shaved my legs with the Soleil Bella shaver this morning and my pins have never felt smoother – let’s just hope this weather improves so we can get them out more!

Shave your way to a more colourful life with BIC Soleil shavers. For more information about the BIC Soleil range, please visit http://www.facebook.com/BICSoleilJustLive.

Sophy Robson Nails

2011-07-21T07:15:00.000-07:00

LOVE Sophy's site! Nail inspiration ahoy!

www.sophyrobson.com

Forever 21 Comes to London

2011-07-21T06:28:00.000-07:00

I am super excited about the UK launch of American fast-fashion shop Forever 21.

My friends Sarah, Laurel and I went to the launch last night which was held at the Old Sorting Office on New Oxford Street. The massive venue was styled to look like a Californian funfair, complete with a fast food stand, beers, cocktails and roller skaters. The brand’s new face, Bip Ling DJ-ed and the catwalk show was actually a series of amazingly futuristic holograms. Beam me up Scottie, I’ll be the first one in this shop (it opens for business July 27th).

Forever 21, 360 Oxford Street
Can’t face Oxford Street? You can shop online: www.forever21.com

Bip Ling

Jesse, Dirty Sexy Things

Saz drinks a beer

Bip Ling DJs

One of the amazing holograms

A Very Seductive Showcase

2011-07-21T05:57:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday 19th June, Bip Ling DJ-ed at an underwear showcase by Lingerie Français, the association of premium French lingerie.

The event for press and media (attended by yours truly) was held at the Swarovski Lounge and focused on the haute couture corsetry of Simone Pérèle (my favourite), the classic sensuality of Lise Charmel, the specialised fit of Empreinte and the modern and audacious Princess Tam Tam.

Celebrities in attendance included Charlotte and BB from Dirty Sexy Things – the fab new TV modelling show. http://www.e4.com/dirtysexythings/about.html.

Monica Vinader Competition

2011-07-20T04:12:00.000-07:00

Favourite brand of the stars, Monica Vinader has launched an amazing new competition, 'My Best Friend' where you could win a new colourway of the brand's gorgeous Fiji bracelet (see the pink version above). I'm going to help judge the competition. Read more (I did a guest post on their site) and enter:

http://blog.monicavinader.com/guest-post-the-power-of-personalisation

Suzi Kemp

2011-07-15T07:40:00.000-07:00

I saw Suzi Kemp's work at 'First Thursdays' (where galleries are open in the East End and there are free beers). Thought her work was fun (and very affordable to boot).

About the artist: http://www.suzikemp.com/
More info about First Thursdays: http://www.firstthursdays.co.uk/

Feeling Fearne

2011-07-14T04:30:00.000-07:00

Looking much like a bobbed version of Twiggy, there’s no denying the sixties influence behind Fearne Cotton’s latest collection for Very.co.uk. Loving the blue shift.

Burberry's New Body

2011-07-13T03:46:00.000-07:00

"© Copyright Burberry/Testino"

I opened the Metro this morning and my eyes were met with Rosie Huntingdon-Whiteley languishing naked beneath a carefully draped, rose gold satin trench. Few things have made me question my sexuality of late but this was definitely borderline.

The reason for this rather risqué campaign? The model is launching ‘Burberry Body,’ the brand’s new fragrance.

Christopher Bailey says:

"Burberry Body is the most exciting launch that we have ever created and captures the iconic spirit of the brand today in a striking and sensual way. Rosie's effortless style and her staggering beauty made her the natural choice as the first Burberry Body."

And Rosie:

''It’s a huge honour to be working with Burberry again, a brand that put my career on the map and helped launch me. To be asked to be the first 'Burberry Body' is an amazing compliment.''

I predict a media stir similar to that of the Brooke Shields/Calvin Klein collaboration (“nothing comes between me and my Calvins”).

Bet some other things will be stirring too…

Burberry Body Campaign (Video NTSC)
http://www.burberrybrand.com?p=G3HoJxyN4k691rqKrHM2eA

I Love House of Sunny!

2011-07-07T01:14:00.000-07:00

House of Sunny's first collection, sponsored by TIGI, drew in an unprecedented crowd of over 800 followers. Top photographer Wayne John shot the featured collection’s Look Book. The line’s key piece was used for the Tigi campaign by JIV. Italian Vogue picked up on the buzz and the label hit an ultimate high when the fashion bible featured the brand. The label’s future was quoted as looking ‘bright’ and named as 'The House of the Rising Sun'.

Sunny says, “The clothes are made with something very special and we sell them to ladies who understand this. They are exclusive pieces that are stooped in impact and sincerity, but only if you understand them. Fashion is very personal. Like you hang a painting on the wall, it’s an idea of hanging a piece on you”.

Check out the lookbook/video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8l59VJRTjM&feature=related

The Pyjama Store

2011-07-06T09:33:00.001-07:00

It might be a sign I’m getting older, but at the moment (when I’m not working late, flat-hunting or partying) I like nothing better than coming home, putting my pyjamas on and getting into a freshly-made bed. I defy any hard-working girl to deny they love this too. What can tilt the level of this enjoyment to climax? Why, a brand new pair of PJs of course! The Pyjama Store have lots of lovely ones and they’re on sale at the moment – back of the net zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

http://www.thepyjamastore.com/sale/womens-sale

How Fabulous!

2011-07-04T09:44:00.000-07:00

Sarah (of www.orfalseglitter.com) and I made our heady debut in Fabulous Magazine lately. We're the ones in the circle and yes, I am the one grabbing for a canape as if my life depended on it. Classy.

We received our fifteen minutes for attending a blogging event at Fabulous HQ. It was great fun; we got our hair and make-up (they used MUA products) done, dressed up in New Look threads (in honour of their Style the Nation TV program) and then took part in a fashion show. I had one too many and began to think various one-legged poses would be a good idea. They were not, obviously. I will leave these shots to your imagination and leave you with some (slightly) more sedate images.

Sarah and a cupcake

Bianca and a cupcake

The cupcakes before being eaten

We pose

Crazy LCF/New Look collaboration shoes

Bloggers listen intently

Lots of lovely MUA make-up (it's really good and really cheap - you can buy it in Superdrug!)

Saz gets her make-up done

The finished result

Blue steel

Posing in New Look clothes

More posing in New Look clothes

Eek!

Oh dear. I must've thought I was Jordan for a second there!

Attempting the classic 'Alexa' pose.

The lovely ladies that work at Fabulous

Face Paint!

2011-06-25T09:18:00.000-07:00

I got hold of my friend Claudia and did this to her! It was loosely inspired by Louise Gray's past make-up look (thanks to www.what-mag.co.uk for the image)

My New Wellies

2011-06-22T09:15:00.000-07:00

These are my new wellies in action. I LOVE them!

Quite fancy these ones too - better don the sunnies!

Lyrics 4 Lyrics

2011-06-20T08:41:00.000-07:00

Loved by Pharrell and Will i Am, Lyrics 4 Lyrics is an urban clothing and accessories label. It’s my new favourite too!

www.lyrics4lyrics.com

Burberry News

2011-06-10T06:21:00.000-07:00

The New Burberry Ad Campaign

'I was inspired by iconic British portraits and our own archive campaigns from the late 1960s of Jean Shrimpton using her trench coat to shelter herself from the poetic and romantic British weather.
We wanted to create a group of portraits celebrating British actors, musicians and models.' Christopher Bailey, Burberry Chief Creative Officer.

The new Bailey-directed Burberry campaign features a trendy mix of British actors, models and musicians. It was shot by Mario Testino at the Park Royal Studios, London.

The Burberry Prorsum Pre-collection

How amazing is the new Prorsum collection? Leather trenchs! Whimsical 70’s frocks! Flares! I want it all.

Sharon's Nails by Wah

2011-06-07T09:43:00.000-07:00

This week...leopard, my favourite!

Festival Fix-up at Exposure PR!

2011-06-06T04:05:00.000-07:00

It’s not every day you get the chance to be treated like a celeb but the lovely Caroline Bradley fixed it for me.

Exposure PR hosted an exclusive ‘Green Room’ for festival season so I went along to see how it all worked. Lots of presenters, bands and singers had been through the company’s shiny Little Portland Street doors, collecting clothing and accessories to make them stand out stylishly at festivals. I’m off to both Bestival and Lovebox for the first time this year so was very excited at the prospect of being dressed properly for them!

The last festival I went to was Glastonbury (on the rainiest year to date) and I wore: a crappy old pair of Primark jeans, my mum’s sorry-looking anorak and a (fake) Von Dutch cap to keep the rain out of my eyes. The one time I tried to look a bit fancy, I wore cut-off denim shorts and the mud stuck to my leg stubble, nice.

Thanks to Caroline and the wonderful Exposure and their brands, this year I will now be packing:

-My new skinny black Cheap Monday jeans
-Snazzy silver Hunter wellies with a snakeskin texture
-A double-sided Toywatch (no excuse to be late for bands when you’re wearing two watches in one!)
-A heart-shaped Lego brooch by Lyrics 4 Lyrics (current fans include Pharrell and the Black Eyed Peas)
-Lots of lovely Revlon make-up (including a mango-scented nail varnish, I’m smelling my nails as I type this!)
-A Shiseido lip crayon
-Biore wet wipes
-Jergens Naturals body lotion
-Goody Stayput hair elastics (they’ve got rubber on them for better grip)
-La La Lashes false eye lashes (no more mascara running down my face if it pours it down again)

That’s better. Maybe now I should do as my friend Charlotte plans to and book in for a wash and blowdry mid-festie? (She’s going to the Isle of Wight one). Perhaps a spray tan too? I thought this was all a tad TOWIE at first but now I don’t want to let the lovely new stuff down by looking straggly!

Here are some pics - there are more to follow but the photo uploader is being dodgy; stay tuned.

Make-up by Revlon, Shiseido and more!

Exposure PR's Green Room

Caroline Bradley

The festival loot!

My lovely new wellies (I tried them out for the first time today!)

Moschino OFF-KEY exhibition

2011-06-01T04:20:00.001-07:00

Celebrating the kooky world of Moschino, Julianna Sseruwagi-Nisbett has curated an exhibition of street photography, paying tribute to Franco Moschino. 40 of London’s hippest kids feature. I went along to the launch in Charing Cross and popped along to the after party (in Bungalow 8) too.

For more information visit www.arts-gallery.co.uk

Lucy in Disguise Launch, Part 2

2011-05-30T10:46:00.000-07:00

Some more pics from the Lucy in Disguise ready-to-wear launch at Harvey Nichols.

Ice cream!
Drinks!

Me in a Celia Birtwell for Topshop frock

The back of James Brown's head
Lily Allen and a rather surprised lady (her mum?)
Lily from behind
Blogger Bip Ling

Me, Saz and someone's finger
Love!
Dan and Caroline
Floaty dresses ahoy!
Fun party times

Lucy in Disguise, Harvey Nichols

2011-05-27T01:47:00.000-07:00

I followed the Channel 4 documentary Lily Allen: From Riches to Rags so was excited to be invited to the launch of the sisters’ new ready-to-wear collection on Wednesday. Drawing from original vintage pieces for inspiration (which themselves are still available to rent), this new range offers affordable pieces priced between £95 and £350. I loved the ankle-sweeping, pink printed seventies number best of all.

Held at Harvey Nichols, the party was great fun and was styled as a vintage fair. My favourite DJs, the Broken Hearts, were on the decks (I didn’t know but Nisha is half-Transylvanian like me!). Celeb in attendance included hairdresser James Brown, lovely Jaime Winstone, gorgeous George Lamb, smiley Edith Bowman, blogger Bip Ling, Lily and Sarah (obviously!) and their brother Alfie Allen.

Beautiful and Damned Exhibition, Blackall Studios

2011-05-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

“A new series of work evoking the spirit of the golden age of cinema, decadence and scandal.”

I went to the private view of a new exhibition at Blackall Studios, ‘Beautiful and Damned’ by Pam Glew. The pieces were incredible; Pam lifts the colour from antique fabrics to form portraits of famous personalities from the 1920s. Josephine Baker, Louise Brooks and Charlie Chaplin were just some of the characters she has captured.

The technique used is so interesting; at first glance the works look like oil paintings but, on closer inspection, you can see that this is not the case.

My favourite portrait was of Louise Brooks, her severe bob and sharp bone structure work so well against the intricate antique fabric with its faded colours and delicate lines.

There’s a late-night opening tonight. The exhibition is on until Sunday 29th May at Blackall Studios, 73 Leonard Street London EC2A 4QS

For more information, visit www.maugermodern.com or www.pamglew.co.uk.

Pam Glew, the artist (wearing an amazing All Saints dress)

The Hawksmoor, Spitalfields

2011-05-22T10:27:00.000-07:00

I had the best steak of my life at the Hawksmoor last week. It was everything a steak should be: juicy, succulent and mouthwatering. I could not fault any part of it. The atmosphere and service were great too; sophisticated and warm.

There are two branches of the Hawksmoor, one in Spitalfields (where I went) and another in Seven Dials. I highly recommend a visit if, like me, you like your meat delicious and your cocktails strong!

www.thehawksmoor.co.uk

Tempest Designs for label.m

2011-05-22T10:23:00.001-07:00

Talented fashion designer William Tempest is really making a name for himself at the moment. His show last fashion week attracted a huge celebrity audience. He was in my year at school (the London School of Fashion) which makes me want to shout about him even more.

Taking a break from dressing Hollywood starlets and cool Brits (Kate and Alexa included!), William has most recently collaborated with label.m Professional Haircare (the official backstage range used at London Fashion Week), designing two summer bags for the brand.

The bags are inspired by William’s SS11 collection entitled ‘The Siren’s Song’ and the print features ‘mythical half-women, half sea creatures’ in a strong acid yellow against a marbled grey background.

Available exclusively from late May 2011 at TONI&GUY, essensuals and specially approved label.m salons nationwide. 0845 070 8080, www.labelm.co.uk or follow via twitter @labelmUK

Sharon's Nails by Wah

2011-05-11T10:33:00.000-07:00

Rainbow stripes! Think this could be my favourite design so far!

Wardrobe Mistress Launch

2011-05-07T01:32:00.000-07:00

Press releases and personalised compact mirrors

Cakes on sticks!

On Thursday I went along to the launch of Wardrobe Mistress, a new online shopping destination offering ‘total wardrobe management.’ Its founder (above), the charming Francesca Salih (who previously worked at Net-a-Porter), says:

“Wardrobe Mistress will help identify what you are lacking in your wardrobe. We take away what you are not wearing and sell it for you, helping you make space for your new must-haves.”

Willow Magic is the site’s ‘virtual stylist’ and offers online fashion advice and blogs about the latest trends. The site itself is easy to navigate and has enough eye-catching pieces to satisfy even the best reformed shopaholic! I’m tempted by this Ashley Isham dress…

http://www.wardrobemistress.co.uk/

Cornwall

2011-04-28T10:08:00.000-07:00

Went to Falmouth for a little 'staycation' over Bank Holiday. It was beautiful there, but things were a little on the pricy side. My friend Olivia and I hiked and rode (on both bike and horse) around the Cornish countryside. Here are the pics I took!

Yes, I tried the fried Creme Egg (only because it was Easter). Strangely, it was easier to consume; less sweet, somehow!

An oyster in Rick Stein's Fish and Chips restaurant

Mmm the best fish and chips of my life was enjoyed in the same plaice (haha, geddit?)

Ah.

Posing on a rock comes as standard

Pretty blue sky

I'm wearing a coral Revlon shade on my toes and the flip-flops are by Accessorize

Olivia paps me on her Diana

In St Mawes

Three labs swimming!

Stitched Vogue Covers = Amazingness by Inge Jackson

2011-04-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

Seriously, Vogue should hire this girl to do a real cover, they could do a craft-inspired issue. Makes me want to rediscover cross-stitching!

http://illusion.scene360.com/art/16974/vogues-cover-sewn-up/

Great Graffiti on New Bond Street - Shocker!

2011-04-21T12:34:00.000-07:00

How great is this? It was on the side of temporary scaffolding on New Bond Street. Naughty Queen!

Derek Lawlor's Cruise Scarf Collection

2011-04-20T12:21:00.000-07:00

I went along to see designer Derek Lawlor’s autumn/winter collection at the Milk Concept Boutique in Shoreditch. Derek’s clothing pieces are mainly structural knitwear. His style has translated beautifully into a printed ‘cruise scarf collection.’ I want a big sarong to swan about in!

I had often passed the Milk Concept Boutique on my way to Liverpool Street but had felt slightly intimidated by the beauty I had seen through the window. Do NOT be scared – the people that work there are all lovely and their interesting wares are definitely worth viewing close up. Be sure to pop in if you’re ever east. Be warned: they also sell Repetto pumps which are ridiculously expensive but ever so tempting.

www.dereklawlor.com/

Milk Concept Boutique
118 1/2 Shoreditch High Street
London E1 6JN
0044 (0) 207 7 299 880
info@milkconceptboutique.com

The Royal Crescent Hotel, Bath

2011-04-18T12:13:00.000-07:00

I went to Bath with my Dad a few weeks ago. We stayed in the rather lovely Royal Crescent Hotel (www.royalcrescent.co.uk/) and I enjoyed the most delicious dinner of my life in the hotel’s restaurant, The Dower House. The setting was stunning, the service was exquisite, and the spa was gorgeous too, all stone and candles. It was my first time visiting Bath and I found it to be a beautiful place with lots of interesting shops and nooks and crannies!

Dad avec lion

The person that lives here? A self-made legend

Something funky I saw in a shop window

Queen Victoria

There were Quentin Blake originals in the shopping centre!

A close-up of Quentin Blake's Fantastic Mr Fox

Bad Wildbad, the Black Forest

2011-04-17T12:01:00.000-07:00

I went to visit my poorly Omama (German Granny) in a rehab centre in Bad Wildbad, the Black Forest. The place was so beautiful, all fresh air and babbling brooks. When we weren’t visiting Omama, it was lovely to walk around and see the pretty churches during the day and eat lots of traditional German fare in the evenings. Rennie, anyone?

We saw people made of pasta, creepy mannequins in the windows of hairdressers and lots of cool statues. Enjoy the pics!

This was cool

These 'decorative' boots were shocking

Creepy head part 1...

...and part 2

Pretty!

Pasta people in a supermarket

Ducks on a rock

Interesting engraved stone

New Wellies!

2011-04-09T09:45:00.000-07:00

Haven't got round to booking any holidays/festivals yet but by gads I have started planning my holiday/festival wardrobe. Number one on my wishlist is a funky new pair of wellies (chucked mine away after Glastonbury). I want Hunters, and I want them now. Check out their new high-tops (above), they are sooo cool.

Colouring in is Fun!

2011-04-08T09:41:00.000-07:00

I know it's a bit silly but I am stupidly excited about this new Toywatch - you can customise it with fluro pens! www.toywatchwatches.co.uk.

Pretty Cushty!

2011-04-07T09:34:00.000-07:00

Check out these amazing cushions my Mum has been making. She personalises each - the 'Future Mrs Bieber' one is for my cousin's daughter, Ashleigh and the boat one is for his son, Alfie. Ahh.

Katie Eary - Made for the Stage

2011-04-06T09:29:00.000-07:00

LOVE Katie Eary! How amazing are these sparkly green trousers? Hot pink psychotic rabbit mask anyone? Surely these should be first-choice stage outfits for a flamboyant frontwomen like Juliette Lewis or Courtney Love?

New Dr Martens

2011-04-03T10:02:00.000-07:00

Very excited about these new streamlined Dr Martens boots for ladies, I want, I want!

Wicked Bike

2011-04-02T09:58:00.000-07:00

How cool is this wrapped-up bike I spotted near Elephant and Castle?

Volume

2011-04-01T09:50:00.000-07:00

Yay! The new Volume magazine is out. I went to its launch in Shoreditch which was loads of fun.Tips Boutique were there doing nails. They used black and white, in keeping with the theme of the issue. For more info, visit www.tips-boutique.com.

Georgia's Lips

2011-03-31T09:44:00.000-07:00

My goddaughter Georgia's lips (above) were inspired by Jessie J's. Don't they look great?

Jessie J's stud lips from the 'Do it Like a Dude' vid (ouch!)

An alternative place to vejazzle!

Alexa in Korea

2011-03-25T06:43:00.000-07:00

Seriously, how good would it be to live Alexa Chung’s life for a day? Most recently she flew to Korea to attend a Mulberry event in the Grand Hyatt Hotel. She DJ-ed at the party and wore a pleated shirt dress from the brand’s autumn/winter ’11 collection. Jel. In other news, I am fantasizing about a top-to toe lilac look (v. flattering on us brunettes). The ‘Google image-ing’ starts now.

Clouded Judgement

2011-03-23T11:14:00.000-07:00

Ugh the very idea of The Cloud makes my skin crawl. Photoshop-ing family snaps? Whatever next? Maybe whiten Rover’s teeth while you’re at it? Make the baby look a wee bit cuter? ‘The cloud gives me the family nature never could.’ Anyone else have a massive problem with this? Airbrushing means that Kate Moss could be a Vogue cover girl when she’s ninety but I draw my personal line at making what should be a genuine, happy family moment appear more ‘perfect’ to outsiders. There are few adverts that make me growl at the TV screen but this, my friends, is one of them. Gross

http://www.microsoft.com/showcase/en/us/details/8f01d2e5-0c99-4780-9d1d-e40000179b0e

Sunday Afternoon

2011-03-22T11:10:00.000-07:00

My favourite singleton Sunday afternoon activity: lighting a Diptqyue candle or two, making a pot of milky, sugary tea in my Maxwell Williams tea pot and watching several episodes of Mad Men deep underneath the covers. Ahhhh.

Sharon’s Nails – Zebra Print by Wah Nails

2011-03-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

A springtime special!