If you are a lover of fashion this exhibition is a must see. Based around the era that became the foundation of the fashion world we know and love, the 80's were the birth place of many amazingly talented designers still wowing the fashion world today, including my favourite - Vivienne Westwood. This exhibition showcases some of the most influential designers of the decade and also the original street styles and fashion tribes that heavily impacted their work. Although a small exhibition it was a collection of 85 quirky outfits that sum up the most outrageous fashion decade and just how much street style has affected what we see on the catwalk .
The designer pieces show the bold and exciting new looks of the era, by the most experimental young designers of the decade, including Vivienne Westwood, Betty Jackson, Katharine Hamnett, Wendy Dagworthy and John Galliano. An interesting collection of different designers, some of which i had not heard of before, i especially liked John Galliano's pieces, although i am used to his work being a lot more flamboyant and this was quite reserved, apart from the ornate head piece - perfect for any occassion! Below are my favourite's from the showcase:
Vivienne Westwood, Betty Jackson, Evening Glamour and John Galliano
As i said the exhibition was small, so afterwards i also took the opportunity to walk round the V&A's permanent collection - another amazing slice of fashion history. I lost myself for a good half an hour in the 30's with long, simple shaping, and a subtle nod to the female form and then in the 50's with ballgowns in abundance and true glamour oozing from every garment. I found the below styles to be my favourites, especially the stunning crystal and feather embellished Pierre Balmain gown - a dress i would kill to wear, if only cinderella had an occassion for such an item.
The main reason behind this trip to London was for my soon to be niece's 6th birthday, whilst i re-visited the fashions on the 80's, my trip companions challenged their brains at the science museum - then we all headed next door to to the Natural History. I haven't visited here since i was a child so it was nice to go back and view this great collection of exhibits through my adult eyes. I have to say the only thing i remember from before was the dinosaur in the grand hall - which is still there and just as big! It was a great day, although keeping up with an energetic little lady was hard work - here are some pics from the day, just a few as i took a lot, including my favourite areas of the museum and the amazing animals of the mammals zone.
If you haven't ever visited the V&A or the Natural History museum, i suggest you do. With an exhibit for everyone a trip to South Kensington is well worth it!
Have you been to any good exhibitions lately? Any recommendations?
Club to Catwalk
If you are a lover of fashion this exhibition is a must see. Based around the era that became the foundation of the fashion world we know and love, the 80's were the birth place of many amazingly talented designers still wowing the fashion world today, including my favourite - Vivienne Westwood. This exhibition showcases some of the most influential designers of the decade and also the original street styles and fashion tribes that heavily impacted their work. Although a small exhibition it was a collection of 85 quirky outfits that sum up the most outrageous fashion decade and just how much street style has affected what we see on the catwalk .
The designer pieces show the bold and exciting new looks of the era, by the most experimental young designers of the decade, including Vivienne Westwood, Betty Jackson, Katharine Hamnett, Wendy Dagworthy and John Galliano. An interesting collection of different designers, some of which i had not heard of before, i especially liked John Galliano's pieces, although i am used to his work being a lot more flamboyant and this was quite reserved, apart from the ornate head piece - perfect for any occassion! Below are my favourite's from the showcase:
Vivienne Westwood, Betty Jackson, Evening Glamour and John Galliano
As i said the exhibition was small, so afterwards i also took the opportunity to walk round the V&A's permanent collection - another amazing slice of fashion history. I lost myself for a good half an hour in the 30's with long, simple shaping, and a subtle nod to the female form and then in the 50's with ballgowns in abundance and true glamour oozing from every garment. I found the below styles to be my favourites, especially the stunning crystal and feather embellished Pierre Balmain gown - a dress i would kill to wear, if only cinderella had an occassion for such an item.
The main reason behind this trip to London was for my soon to be niece's 6th birthday, whilst i re-visited the fashions on the 80's, my trip companions challenged their brains at the science museum - then we all headed next door to to the Natural History. I haven't visited here since i was a child so it was nice to go back and view this great collection of exhibits through my adult eyes. I have to say the only thing i remember from before was the dinosaur in the grand hall - which is still there and just as big! It was a great day, although keeping up with an energetic little lady was hard work - here are some pics from the day, just a few as i took a lot, including my favourite areas of the museum and the amazing animals of the mammals zone.
If you haven't ever visited the V&A or the Natural History museum, i suggest you do. With an exhibit for everyone a trip to South Kensington is well worth it!
Have you been to any good exhibitions lately? Any recommendations?
So spring has sprung on the highstreet, even if the weather hasn't yet received the memo and i am excited to start adding some spring pieces to my wardrobe to brighten up what has been a rather dull winter, with so much black and grey. I am yet to see whole new collections as Northampton is not quite the centre of the fashion world and usually only has snippets of a full range, however the following pieces have already caught my eye in both store and online - a collection of pieces that would work well with my wintery favourites for now but add some much needed colour and newness. My new years fashion resolution is to buy less and wear more - with some gorgeous pieces already in my wardrobe i am trying to only buy items i love.
I bought the New Look jumper this weekend and can't wait to wear it next week layered over my favourite dress with a statement necklace. The Topshop dress has been ordered and arrives at the end of next week - just in time for my London trip. This will be a great piece for work as it is a great everyday shape but has a fun element and a quirky edge, it is also a different colour for me as i am not normally one for neon green but the subtle use of this bright against the simple grey intrigues me. The remainder of the pieces i will get as and when i find them - a trip to Oxford street next weekend i am sure will help to locate them and probably many more.
-♥-
3. Cold shoulder denim dress £25 - Dorothy Perkins. 4. Coral waterfall blazer £24.99 - New Look.
5. Pink textured pencil skirt £20 - Dorothy Perkins. 6. Floral blazer £50 - River Island
Are you embracing the new spring collections yet or are you waiting for warmer weather?
Spring Wardrobe
So spring has sprung on the highstreet, even if the weather hasn't yet received the memo and i am excited to start adding some spring pieces to my wardrobe to brighten up what has been a rather dull winter, with so much black and grey. I am yet to see whole new collections as Northampton is not quite the centre of the fashion world and usually only has snippets of a full range, however the following pieces have already caught my eye in both store and online - a collection of pieces that would work well with my wintery favourites for now but add some much needed colour and newness. My new years fashion resolution is to buy less and wear more - with some gorgeous pieces already in my wardrobe i am trying to only buy items i love.
I bought the New Look jumper this weekend and can't wait to wear it next week layered over my favourite dress with a statement necklace. The Topshop dress has been ordered and arrives at the end of next week - just in time for my London trip. This will be a great piece for work as it is a great everyday shape but has a fun element and a quirky edge, it is also a different colour for me as i am not normally one for neon green but the subtle use of this bright against the simple grey intrigues me. The remainder of the pieces i will get as and when i find them - a trip to Oxford street next weekend i am sure will help to locate them and probably many more.
-♥-
3. Cold shoulder denim dress £25 - Dorothy Perkins. 4. Coral waterfall blazer £24.99 - New Look.
5. Pink textured pencil skirt £20 - Dorothy Perkins. 6. Floral blazer £50 - River Island
Are you embracing the new spring collections yet or are you waiting for warmer weather?
Before Christmas i visited Waterstones and as usual spent way too much as i seem unable to visit and not leave with at least 1 book. My local store in Northampton has an great fashion department (mainly due to having an amazing fashion program at the university) and there is always something new to tickle my literary taste buds. This trip was no exception and resulted in 3 new additions to my bookcase and i thought i would share them with you....
-♥-
Always one for a behind the scenes look, i enjoyed this book as it peeks behind the glamourous cloak that conceals the stylish world of Vogue. I have to admit i have never read an issue of Australian Vogue but as an avid reader of the UK fashion bible i decided this would be an interesting read. Reading about not only the highs in a magazine office but the lows and politics that come with every issue, not only intrigued me but also shattered a few illusions for me. I always had a vision of a highly glamour filled world with only a hint of The Devil wears Prada, when in reality this book portrays it as cut throat industry, hard work and more tears than tiara's. If you like to read about real life with a touch of glamour this is an ideal book for you.
-♥-
My favourite kind of book, a mix of tips and tricks but also a great collection of imagery. This book goes one further than my favourites, the Sartorialist and Facehunter and not only shows beautiful street fashion photography but also shows you how to create your own - from selecting your subject to where to shoot and even advice on the best camera's. I have always favoured taking pictures on my phone, mainly because i always have it on me, but i am defiantly considering taking the next step and buying a decent camera. The book has been a source of inspiration and will hopefully help to take my photos to the next level.
-♥-
Written by Tamara Mellon, this is the story behind the fabulous shoe brand Jimmy Choo and its humble beginnings. Not normally one for autobiography's, however as this was written by a woman who i admire, not only because of her amazing shoes but also her business sense and how successful she has been in a tough market, i had to read it.
I have only read a couple of chapters so far but i am enjoying.
What books are you reading at the moment?
I have only read a couple of chapters so far but i am enjoying.
What books are you reading at the moment?
Latest Reads
Before Christmas i visited Waterstones and as usual spent way too much as i seem unable to visit and not leave with at least 1 book. My local store in Northampton has an great fashion department (mainly due to having an amazing fashion program at the university) and there is always something new to tickle my literary taste buds. This trip was no exception and resulted in 3 new additions to my bookcase and i thought i would share them with you....
-♥-
Always one for a behind the scenes look, i enjoyed this book as it peeks behind the glamourous cloak that conceals the stylish world of Vogue. I have to admit i have never read an issue of Australian Vogue but as an avid reader of the UK fashion bible i decided this would be an interesting read. Reading about not only the highs in a magazine office but the lows and politics that come with every issue, not only intrigued me but also shattered a few illusions for me. I always had a vision of a highly glamour filled world with only a hint of The Devil wears Prada, when in reality this book portrays it as cut throat industry, hard work and more tears than tiara's. If you like to read about real life with a touch of glamour this is an ideal book for you.
-♥-
My favourite kind of book, a mix of tips and tricks but also a great collection of imagery. This book goes one further than my favourites, the Sartorialist and Facehunter and not only shows beautiful street fashion photography but also shows you how to create your own - from selecting your subject to where to shoot and even advice on the best camera's. I have always favoured taking pictures on my phone, mainly because i always have it on me, but i am defiantly considering taking the next step and buying a decent camera. The book has been a source of inspiration and will hopefully help to take my photos to the next level.
-♥-
Written by Tamara Mellon, this is the story behind the fabulous shoe brand Jimmy Choo and its humble beginnings. Not normally one for autobiography's, however as this was written by a woman who i admire, not only because of her amazing shoes but also her business sense and how successful she has been in a tough market, i had to read it.
I have only read a couple of chapters so far but i am enjoying.
What books are you reading at the moment?
I have only read a couple of chapters so far but i am enjoying.
What books are you reading at the moment?
Seeing this image has really put me in a great summer mood. All the brands are shifting focus to the new season and this was part of a great email I received today, with a creative nod to New Years resolutions, check it out here...... I loved Boden's winter collection, especially all the monochrome and tweeds but I have to say this new collection is just as gorgeous, if not better. Every time I log on I find more new pieces that I want to own, at least if my purse allowed.
Such a British brand but not in a stuffy way. Joules is a little too Pony club for me, with very prim traditional pieces and I used to think that about Boden but recently the brand has sparked my interest. The recent use of colour and print is so modern and fresh yet still retains the simplicity and modesty that you expect to see. A great brand for all ages - I really love the little girls collection, some pieces I really wish were available in big girl sizes too and Mini Boden is even cuter! My only annoyance is the prices - I am all for quality but I do feel some items are over priced but it is a price bracket tat works for the brand so I rely on discounts and special offers.
So far these three pieces are on my wish list. A great floral blazer - perfect for jazzing up a pair of jeans, a playful dress with Peter Pan collar, in my favourite shade of bubblegum pink and this striped coat that reminds me of a Humbug sweet (similar to a style in Oasis from FW13 that I was never able to find in my size). 3 different pieces that really give a sense of whats' to come in spring - particularly loving the influx of bright colours, especially those in the pink/purple family.
Lets hope the weather catches up with my happy summery mood soon.
Lets hope the weather catches up with my happy summery mood soon.
Spring has sprung
Seeing this image has really put me in a great summer mood. All the brands are shifting focus to the new season and this was part of a great email I received today, with a creative nod to New Years resolutions, check it out here...... I loved Boden's winter collection, especially all the monochrome and tweeds but I have to say this new collection is just as gorgeous, if not better. Every time I log on I find more new pieces that I want to own, at least if my purse allowed.
Such a British brand but not in a stuffy way. Joules is a little too Pony club for me, with very prim traditional pieces and I used to think that about Boden but recently the brand has sparked my interest. The recent use of colour and print is so modern and fresh yet still retains the simplicity and modesty that you expect to see. A great brand for all ages - I really love the little girls collection, some pieces I really wish were available in big girl sizes too and Mini Boden is even cuter! My only annoyance is the prices - I am all for quality but I do feel some items are over priced but it is a price bracket tat works for the brand so I rely on discounts and special offers.
So far these three pieces are on my wish list. A great floral blazer - perfect for jazzing up a pair of jeans, a playful dress with Peter Pan collar, in my favourite shade of bubblegum pink and this striped coat that reminds me of a Humbug sweet (similar to a style in Oasis from FW13 that I was never able to find in my size). 3 different pieces that really give a sense of whats' to come in spring - particularly loving the influx of bright colours, especially those in the pink/purple family.
Lets hope the weather catches up with my happy summery mood soon.
Lets hope the weather catches up with my happy summery mood soon.
* A sad start to the month, my boss moved on to pastures new - however on the positive side we went out for dinner and i had the most amazing pizza at the The Lord Nelson in Oakham. After much deliberating i settled on their signature pizza which includes duck and hoisin sauce, a bit like duck pancakes on a pizza. Sounds like an odd combination but if you are ever around Oakham it is worth a visit. * One of my favourite traditions, putting up the Christmas tree with assistance from the cat who likes to be in charge of baubles! One small problem this year, my fairy lights died so i have to improvise with my Ikea heart lights. * A true sign that the festive period has begun - homemade mince pies YUM. * My dress for Xmas Eve, a little Topshop number with some subtle sparkle. I fell in love with this print when i first saw it used on a midi skirt, however it was a rather un-flattering length on me so i was very happy to see this mini dress version appear on the website - the perfect mix of comfort and sparkle with jersey top and underlay and a printed tulle skirt. Delivered in the usual gorgeous Topshop packaging. * I finally had to retire my slippers after 3 years due to a rather large hole. I found these in my local Sainsbury's and they are the perfect replacement. * A must have pair of earrings - Pinterest is a great source for individual pieces. Now to track them down! * My new slippers have become a favourite cuddle buddy for Willow and i regularly have to fight her for them, but who could resist this adorable face.
* Sharing my love of all things 1920's and in particular the fashion, if you haven't already check out my post on Gatsby Glamour and see how you too can become a flapper girl. * Another little gem from Pinterest - a great mantra plus i am a little obsessed with this colour palette of black/white/gold at the moment, very Kate Spade inspired. * Bobble in a box, as usual anytime a box appears in my house Willow is usually in it within a few seconds, this one was no acception. * A small pre-Christmas shopping trip intended for rounding up the remaining gifts however turned into an ME trip - i knew an un-attended trip to Waterstones would be bad, as I cant leave that shop without at least 1 book, especially as they now have such a good fashion section. This time i went for The Vogue Factor a candid account of behind the scenes of Australian Vogue and In my Shoes the memoirs of Jimmy Choo legend Tamara Mellon. * On this same trip i also couldn't resist this beautiful necklace from New Look - a piece that really reminds me of some J Crew pieces, and a fab bargain at only £7.99.
* Northampton town has excelled itself this year with decorations and these beautiful trees of light are a great addition to the shopping centre, a simple yet chic approach. * Not one to resist a bargain i simply had to have this Soap and Glory Yule Monty vanity case and goodies, that was on special offer at £27 down from £60 in Boots, especially since my favourite mascara included inside is £10 on its own. Loving all the products inside especially the Butter yourself body butter, plus the case is designed by Johnathan Saunders (Willow's pink box was inside). * A few make up purchases from H&M, BB cream brush, eye shadow brush and neutrals set - not bad for £13!
* Another cute shot of Willow, hiding from the world with only a purr giving away her location.
* My Christmas eve outfit, off to work before heading home to family. Loving the Topshop dress and smartened up for the office with my blazer. * Such a lucky girl - vouchers to spend, from Accessorize, New Look and Next. * My mum knows me so well - artwork for my new house and a beautiful kitty cushion. Perfect pastel additions to my love of interior design. * So the Accessorize vouchers didn't last long! This clear perspex and jewelled necklace called out to me and screamed perfect for spring and the tartan scarf is something i have been thinking about since i saw it in October, so very chuffed to find it in the Northampton store especially as it was the last one left. * OOTD for my last working day of 2013 - ASOS dress, H&M biker jacket, my new tartan scarf and my Mulberry Roxanne.
So that was 2013! A year of many ups and downs - here is to a bright 2014, which is already shaping up to be a good year. My little sisters wedding in September and moving into our new house in July (finally took the plunge and bought!) which will be so exciting.
Happy New Year to all xx
My December
* A sad start to the month, my boss moved on to pastures new - however on the positive side we went out for dinner and i had the most amazing pizza at the The Lord Nelson in Oakham. After much deliberating i settled on their signature pizza which includes duck and hoisin sauce, a bit like duck pancakes on a pizza. Sounds like an odd combination but if you are ever around Oakham it is worth a visit. * One of my favourite traditions, putting up the Christmas tree with assistance from the cat who likes to be in charge of baubles! One small problem this year, my fairy lights died so i have to improvise with my Ikea heart lights. * A true sign that the festive period has begun - homemade mince pies YUM. * My dress for Xmas Eve, a little Topshop number with some subtle sparkle. I fell in love with this print when i first saw it used on a midi skirt, however it was a rather un-flattering length on me so i was very happy to see this mini dress version appear on the website - the perfect mix of comfort and sparkle with jersey top and underlay and a printed tulle skirt. Delivered in the usual gorgeous Topshop packaging. * I finally had to retire my slippers after 3 years due to a rather large hole. I found these in my local Sainsbury's and they are the perfect replacement. * A must have pair of earrings - Pinterest is a great source for individual pieces. Now to track them down! * My new slippers have become a favourite cuddle buddy for Willow and i regularly have to fight her for them, but who could resist this adorable face.
* Sharing my love of all things 1920's and in particular the fashion, if you haven't already check out my post on Gatsby Glamour and see how you too can become a flapper girl. * Another little gem from Pinterest - a great mantra plus i am a little obsessed with this colour palette of black/white/gold at the moment, very Kate Spade inspired. * Bobble in a box, as usual anytime a box appears in my house Willow is usually in it within a few seconds, this one was no acception. * A small pre-Christmas shopping trip intended for rounding up the remaining gifts however turned into an ME trip - i knew an un-attended trip to Waterstones would be bad, as I cant leave that shop without at least 1 book, especially as they now have such a good fashion section. This time i went for The Vogue Factor a candid account of behind the scenes of Australian Vogue and In my Shoes the memoirs of Jimmy Choo legend Tamara Mellon. * On this same trip i also couldn't resist this beautiful necklace from New Look - a piece that really reminds me of some J Crew pieces, and a fab bargain at only £7.99.
* Northampton town has excelled itself this year with decorations and these beautiful trees of light are a great addition to the shopping centre, a simple yet chic approach. * Not one to resist a bargain i simply had to have this Soap and Glory Yule Monty vanity case and goodies, that was on special offer at £27 down from £60 in Boots, especially since my favourite mascara included inside is £10 on its own. Loving all the products inside especially the Butter yourself body butter, plus the case is designed by Johnathan Saunders (Willow's pink box was inside). * A few make up purchases from H&M, BB cream brush, eye shadow brush and neutrals set - not bad for £13!
* Another cute shot of Willow, hiding from the world with only a purr giving away her location.
* My Christmas eve outfit, off to work before heading home to family. Loving the Topshop dress and smartened up for the office with my blazer. * Such a lucky girl - vouchers to spend, from Accessorize, New Look and Next. * My mum knows me so well - artwork for my new house and a beautiful kitty cushion. Perfect pastel additions to my love of interior design. * So the Accessorize vouchers didn't last long! This clear perspex and jewelled necklace called out to me and screamed perfect for spring and the tartan scarf is something i have been thinking about since i saw it in October, so very chuffed to find it in the Northampton store especially as it was the last one left. * OOTD for my last working day of 2013 - ASOS dress, H&M biker jacket, my new tartan scarf and my Mulberry Roxanne.
So that was 2013! A year of many ups and downs - here is to a bright 2014, which is already shaping up to be a good year. My little sisters wedding in September and moving into our new house in July (finally took the plunge and bought!) which will be so exciting.
Happy New Year to all xx
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