The Messy Perfectionist

Kitten fetish

2011-05-17T16:52:00.000-07:00

When it transpired that kitten heels were making a come back I honestly winced. They remind me of my first year at university, clip clopping around campus in kitten heels - before I got a clue and realised Exeter didnt have paths to lectures called Cardiac Hill for no reason. So I threw out all kitten heels, vowed to never say hello again, and invested in ballet pumps and flats like the rest of the sane student population.

As usual, fashion always comes around again to bite you in the ass and kick yourself for throwing out all your old investments. Following the ladylike trend takeover in SS11 and the return of a feminine touch, the catwalks twisted my arm and I decided it was time to make peace with the mini heel. With the right outfit and the appropriate situation they can work.. Besides, sometimes you need a bit of clip clop in your life, to release your inner sex kitten. Miaow.

D.I.Y

2011-05-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

Considering All Saints is a brand I absolutely adore, it is also one of which I have very little of.

These jeans were in the sale, and I bought them solely for the colour of the denim. However, left as they were, they were actually verging on boring, despite the drop crotch. With Neil Buchanan being a childhood hero of mine: tippex, gold leaf and superglue later and 'boring' no longer features in their list of ingredients.

They definitely do not receive a thumbs up from the opposite sex, in fact I had a friend who insisted I looked like I was about to choreograph a routine for So You Think You Can Dance whenever I wore them.

Regardless, perhaps they are tomboy-esque; have the potential to make you look like a painter/decorator minus the white van; make munchkin legs look even shorter. They still get the thumbs up from me - and as an added bonus, you don't have to worry if you ever sit on wet paint.

Now there's majesty, in a burnt out caravan

2011-05-16T01:52:00.000-07:00

Festival season is fast approaching. Never short of a flower or two, the collection of hair flowers continues to grow. Reckon I've got enough stocked up for the season.

Midsummer nights dream meets Navaho Fairytale will be the general idea. Any excuse to wear a garden on my head. Please excuse the cheesy grin.

You came in with the breeze, on Sunday morning

2011-05-14T10:53:00.000-07:00

If Sundays and picnics in the park had a uniform - this would be my chosen set of threads.

HOW.

Style Crush

2011-05-14T04:38:00.000-07:00

My style crushes flick back and forth between the Olsen twins, Alexa Chung, Rumi Neely (aka Fashiontoast) and Emmanuelle Alt. All posess that thrown together, slightly imperfect, tousled quality that makes them so achingly fascinating to Google, but each with their style niches. The Olsen twins seem to have the bag lady chic down to a T, ideal for when you want inspiration for layering up to the max so it verges on the riduculous. Alexa Chung for vinatage old lady-come-librarian style, Rumi Neely for oversize tops, tiny bottoms and slouchy heaven, and Emmanuelle Alt for uber simplistic punchy ensembles.

Lately though, I seem to be hitting the search engine more often than not for pics of Ms Alt. With her Balmain addiction and Isabel Marant Fall AW10 pumps, everything she throws together is so simple yet so effective. It's as though she has drafted a fashion mathematics formula to abide by : keep silhouette simple and streamlined, make the most of gazelle like limbs (skinny leather trousers/opaques and tiny shorts) plain slouch Tshirt, shoulder enhanced jacket. Mantra : never stray from the path of the black and white spectrum, (grey and zebra print is therefore allowed) colour is not an option - apart from blue, and perhaps a spattering of embellishment to spice things up a bit.

Side step into the shade

2011-05-14T04:18:00.000-07:00

I'm not a big fan of sunglasses. On other people yes. On me, not so much. Having always been of the school of thought that I am NOT a hat person, I also dont really think I'm a 'sunglasses' person either. The inability to ever really be able to see what you look like in a pair of shades, (the tinted lens will always distort your reflection in the mirror, and to peak over the lens defeats the object of trying to see what they look like on) frustrates me. Maybe that doesn't make sense. I guess you could overcome the dilemma by taking a photo, but those have only ever certified my belief that on me, sunglasses just dont work.
However, the same way that my affection for hats grew over the last year, im determined to find a pair that suit. Sunglasses offer the option of hiding a multitude of sins the morning-after-the-night-before, for which YSL's Touche Eclat would never cut the mustard. They can also rev up an outfit and take a plain 'so so' look to 'bite me.' And who better to demonstrate this than the Olsens, queens of the super-sized saucer shades. They make me want to BE a sunglasses person.

Laughing in the open air, have yourself another dream

2011-05-11T10:41:00.000-07:00

Peachy keen nails and mink coloured sequins. The cardigan was actually on sale, so as I'd wanted it ever since it hit the shop floor, the fact that the only size left was an 18 wasnt going to stop me investing my penies. It manages to pass as a gently oversized option - with the help of some cleverly placed safety pins to minimize the sheer width of the shoulders. To be honest, I whole heartedly prefer this offering, rather than the snug little cardigan it must have been designed to be. There are some things in life that need to be bought in the correct size - bras, trousers, shorts... However, something I started doing a long time ago, on realising sales are predominantly made up of plus sized product - was to buy and then alter their wardrobe destiny. XL camisoles become floaty slouchy slips, plus size tops become dresses, little cardigans become oversized versions. Sometimes it works, sometimes it really doesnt and you just look like a tramp. No harm in testing them out though. The worst that can happen is, you'll find yourself walking away with a very nice little bargain!

1.1.11

2011-01-01T10:04:00.000-08:00

*New year's resolutions*

Be spontaneous, it'll give your eyes a reason to sparkle.

Following the spread in Elle featuring Clemence Poesy looking effortlessly chic in her fedora, i've decided to :

Wear more hats. They make for great talking points for striking up conversations with strangers ;-)

Seas between us broad have roared

2011-01-01T09:06:00.000-08:00

The lyrics to Auld Lang Syne? Does anyone actually know them? Pretty much every NYE at the stroke of midnight, ive attempted that song - and every year vow to Google the lyrics in time for the next. Heads up: there's no point. 5 verses. I swear no one knows any more than the first. Who knew the title of this blog was even a line from the song. Well you wouldnt, it's third verse, third line down. By midnight and under the influence... I dont think so.

Smokey eyes and sequins mood board. Moss personifies the look perfectly. I feel like I should rename this blog the glitter perfectionist, the last few posts have mentioned some form of glitter abuse. Yes, my name is Emma, and I'm a glitter addict.

Even though the occasion is hyped up every year, part of you still always hopes that 'this' year it will live up to expectations. But, as with every year, sequins were adorned and my best friend and I set off into the night hoping for a miracle ;-)

Come to sparkle the dark up

2010-12-25T19:16:00.000-08:00

Christmas day - that magical day, regardless of how old I am, I still wake up excited.
Wake up, open the presents avec famille, my mother will then run off to start prepping the turkey - (requiring a lot of time - it must be taken out to relax for at least an hour once it has cooked. Yes, her words not mine. A relaxing turkey is far more delicious than one that was just left to rest.) Dressing for Xmas lunch involved covering my face in glitter, and a sensibly loose outfit to allow for a dinner plate piled as high as humanly possible.I once read an article by Nigela Lawson who stated that Xmas was the one time of year when you can be openly outrageously greedy without anyone batting an eyelid - the day of welcomed over indulgence. The rest is spent dozing in and out of consciousness, whilst watching a variety of Xmas tv/films, ending with a multicoloured dance floor of quality street wrappers. It's 3am and im in denial that it's over for another year.Watching Shakin' Stevens on TOTP 2. The only man to ever make a Xmas knit look cool. Till next year x

Voulez-vous couche avec moi - a midi?

2010-12-21T05:16:00.000-08:00

Oh the weather outside is frightful...but when there's food, music, dancefloor and a handful of girlfriends, who cares! Went to the infamous Love Brunch at Supperclub, Notting Hill - the only dilemma being : what's a girl supposed to wear to an event turned on it's head and offering all the fun of an after dark soiree held at midday. Brilliant concept, and for some reason, with the seating arrangement based on bedroom reclining -I opted for a silk kimono-come-dressing gown top. The ideal daytime boudoir attire. Leather look leggings and ankle boots made it possible to look like I hadnt just rolled straight out of my own bed, although the shoes came off pretty sharpish after a brief repremanding from the wait staff .

"Well you wouldnt put your shoes on your bed at home would you!" Slap on the wrist. Bad girl.

White city, she is so beautiful

2010-12-08T02:21:00.000-08:00

Snow days make way for plenty of time to conjure up a mood board, and with Kate Bush's December will be magic again on repeat - the winter weather calls for snow queens and ice maiden inspiration. White faux fur, shearling lined bits and pieces, scattered with diamente trims and body jewels make the perfect go to kit for last minute additions to winter fancy dress... The image of fresh snow at 5am in the morning - Silent Night never rang so true. A beautiful but eerie ghost town - i've neven seen the world so still.

Animal instinct

2010-12-08T02:16:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I've made quite apparent my addiction to animal print, so this post is pretty much ground hog day. I still find it hard to comprehend my love for something that I only ever used to associate with old tarts featured on Coronation St, yet see no problem with wearing animal print trousers in broad daylight these days..
My wardrobe now consists of animal print sunnies, harem pants, blouses, body con dresses, skirts, coat (not of the cheetah faux fur variety that's been done by every high street store -it's an old grey leopard wool jacket from about 5 yrs ago) peep toe kitten heels, flat pumps, scarves - all in a variety of shades of 'animal'. Yet still, I just cant get enough - lacking mainly in the form of a chain cross body bag a la Chung, and a pair of leopard print pointed stilettos. I've been carrying two tear sheets around in my bag for a month now. After those additions I reckon I will have quelled my animal print cravings!

all the pretty things

2010-12-01T09:44:00.000-08:00

1st december.

We have now entered the season of mandatory sparkle, winter wonderland and all things pretty

for.one.whole.month.

The first of December not only signifies the start of the advent calender (26 and still indulging in the ritual calender chocolate - tastes completely different to a bar of dairy milk - fact) but also the start of a month long excuse to dress as if every day is a party. Wearing glitter and sequins during the day seems to have become more acceptible over the last year, but im talking about a full on asault of the treasure chest. Anything that twinkles. When you are confronted by tinsel and fairy lights, xmas baubles and glitter frosted candy canes at the turn of every corner - it all makes me want to get involved from head to toe. The one time of year when I dont care how ridiculous I look. I refuse to grow out of my childhood adoration for xmas, the time of year when anything can happen. Christ, a fat man can fit through your radiator pipes to deliver presents..if that's not proof enough that miracles do happen, I dont know what is ;-) Let the party season begin.

Titania's garden

2010-11-24T15:50:00.000-08:00

Never underestimate the addition of a pair of knee high socks.

For something so basic, they can completely transform and revamp a look. The key is to try and play them down as much as possible - subtract the sex factor/britney spears oops I did it again, and instead use them to add a quirky point of difference to a potentially plain/safe ensemble. Key rules to abide by : dont combine with body con, team with floaty, loose fitting skirts or dresses to play down the socks as best you can. Warning, they are attention seeking. Just today, provoked a white van to slow down at a pelican crossing, and inform me that I had just made the driver's day. This is exactly the reaction you want to try and avoid. But to be fair, white van drivers will hollar at pretty much anything that has a hemline higher than the knee...

Anyway, winter insists wearing knee high socks over 10 denier tights - thus keeping the illusion of bare legs without branding you insane. Then again, who am I kidding - the amount of warmth retained by a pair of 10 denier tights is highly questionable - if anything it purely conceals the corn beef effect of legs gone blue!

Wear with oversize knitwear, a granny cardi owned by my mun in the 70s provided the perfect ratio of warmth to tomboy, whilst the addition of harsh black accessories - cut off gloves/snood/tassle 'Dougal from magic roundabout' bag kept the look from becoming too country bumpkin, Land Girls-esque.

And for no reason at all but to highlight it's beauty - out of nowhere on the way home, I came across a gorgeous little florist, lit up like a mirage from a fairytale. Marylebone's equivalent to the cupboard entrance to Narnia perhaps. Well..a knee high socked up schoolgirl can dream.

Snug

2010-11-12T07:04:00.000-08:00

Since my last post the weather has plummeted to freezing - but anyone who has followed my blog in the past knows - I adore any reasons to layer up - tis the season to be jolly! I think my loves still focus on pretty much the similar concepts to last winter - with the addition of more snoods - (ultimate travel pillows that make falling asleep on the tube a much more pleasiurable experience) chunky knitwear - oversize with tassels hanging off them where possible, plus huge wooden buttons, oversize gilets in any texture to layer over little leather jackets. Colour palette is black, white, leather look - matte and shiny, gunmetal grey, faux furs and LOTS of leopard print.

My book has more book marks than pages

2010-11-11T12:02:00.000-08:00

Just realised it is almost a year to the day that I started The Messy Perfectionist - although then it was called Kiyomi Style -cannot believe how quickly this year has flown. I remember sitting in Shoreditch House courtesy of Patrick, devouring yet another egg white and spinach omellette and trying to come up with a name for this blog. I had no idea about blogs back then, and we spent ages trying to think up something suitable. I then popped to the ladies to powder my nose; by the time I came back, Patrick had set up the domain Kiyomi Style and it was good to go.

So recently - Guy Fawkes & Halloween took place. Both a legitimate excuse to wear ridiculous amounts of glitter. Bonfire night I managed to create the look of a human sparkler - molting glitter on anyone who came within a 12 inch radius of my head (some unfortunate men will have had some explaining to do to their other halves when they got home, the queue to get into the display meant a lot of awkward unwanted close contact) I also had to remind myself not to stand too close to any bonfires - backcombing and hairspray make for a highly flammable barnet.

Fingerless gloves are still a necessity, although clip in coloured hair extensions, as Cherry models in the last photo - (finishing touches in the cab on our way to Supperclub, Notting Hill) are the new source of experimentation.

Wrapped in white sheets, like an angel from a bedtime story

2010-09-21T16:17:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when you least expect it, signs are sent out the blue to remind you the universe is on your side.
Dont waste time wondering what could have, should have, would have been.
Life's too short and everything happens for a reason.

Came home to an unexpected parcel, including a collection of pictures - the kind you imagine dreams to be made of as seen through a soft focus camera lens. It is true, some things are better said with pictures.
Pictures and heavily beaded All Saints accessories that is. Cannot wait to incorporate these into my life.
This post is dedicated to Josie Brown - for all your inspirational food for thought over the past few weeks. Your parcel was like a little ray of sunshine x

I cant let you be, because your beauty wont allow it

2010-08-31T15:31:00.000-07:00

As previously mentioned, slogan vests and tees are my nemesis. I adore them, but they seem almost impossible to find of the right cut. I've had to wear an elasticated belt to tuck the lengths of excess vest into for this look. Stuck to off whites, stone and dove grey with nails of cement. After having a weekend of issues, my father took me for a long drive. There's nothing like riding shotgun alongside your dad with windows wound down, blasting soundtracks that remind you of your childhood and watching the sun set to put everything back into persective.

The sentiment of coloured mirrored ornaments

2010-08-24T14:53:00.000-07:00

Have simplified accessories down to the bare minimum, diluting necklaces to the plainest in the collection, and bracelets cut down to a single bangle. No rings today.

Clothing has also been simplified to loose layers, hues limited to black, white and varying tones of the mink spectrum.

Barry M's mushroom polish, Zara tassled wedged hooves, and leather leggings. Personally I think it's always necessary to wear taupe with white, in order to lift the palette and keep it from looking drab.

Sometimes simplicity is best. Perhaps a current reflection of a much needed feng shui of the mind and soul at present.

Almost never

2010-08-22T07:48:00.000-07:00

You go through phases of falling in and out of love with pieces in your wardrobe. Its like dipping into a jumble sale every time, I dont know half the items that are actually in there.. Rings are my new obsession. The bag was found in a charity shop for £3 a couple of years ago. Its originally from Clarks. And there was me thinking my purchases from there stopped after my feet became too big to be measured on that robotic ridiculously oversized mechanism. For a classic mini satchel type solution, it makes a nice change from carrying a mary poppins endless bottom sized bag, its perfect for bank card, keys and hoola. Oh and the camera of course.

The feather attachment is actually an earring that looks better on clothing than hanging from my ears.

Disturbia

2010-08-19T15:33:00.000-07:00

Unpredictable weather means you can either veer on the side of caution, covering all the bits that summer usually allows you to expose, or you can gamble and wear the bare limbs and the non waterproof pumps. British weather means its fair play to gamble, but you might aswell accept that if it looks like its going to rain, it will. Have ruined too many of my favourite ballet shoes that way, including a pair of chain mail flats that were amazing, but got wrecked as a result of foolish optimism. To be fair, we were in Barcelona, so the idea of rain at the time was to be considered absurd.

Instead, the mental insitution boots went on, still attracting unwanted attention. How something so unconvential can generate such a response is beyond me.

The feather addition is actually an earring pinned to the cami, that felt it necessary to poke me everytime I sat down/laughed/slouched. Acts as a good posture improver though.

Anonymity

2010-08-19T08:02:00.000-07:00

1. Frozen yoghurt lunch mid 'black chipped nailpolish rescue' manicure. 2 clashing prints thrown together. 3. broken in wedges on the train home the morning after the night before. 4. Want, but will ever own? Status unknown.

Deconstruct

2010-08-17T15:27:00.000-07:00

August, a ridiculous time of year for torrential rain, considering it is supposed to be the height of summer. Eventually it cleared, leaving the sky looking like it was on fire.

By night fall, ventured to Hoxton for a friend's birhday. With all of it's artisic injections into every aspect of decor, this one offered graffitied cubicles which would make for awesome back drops to photos. Taking a second to recover from a dance induced stitch, I managed to take a couple of shots whilst powdering my nose in the little girl's room.

Some kind of unknowing fool

2010-08-09T13:58:00.000-07:00

Following on from feather talk, pictured is one of the dream catchers from Barcelona. I miss Barcelona, the beach, the culture, the laid back attitude and the beautiful sunkissed people. I spent a lot of time there a couple of years ago and it has been a while since I returned. Even if it's just for a few days to rekindle my romance with the city. My friend recently bought another bar to add to his collection out there so hopefully I can make it out before summer is up.

Clutching the latest issue of Vogue, Kate Moss makes her 30th appearance on the front cover. And boy has she still got it.

Your visits are getting shorter

2010-08-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

Not one of my favourite outfits, but for something to throw on when the weather forecast says 100% chance of rain, my granny cardi is still one of my favourite reach fors. First time ive worn leather look leggings in about two months. Had got accustomed to wearing bare legs this summer, which is unusual considering how erratic london's summer's usually are. I also realised I have barely worn any of my summer floral dresses like usual, all are still held hostage in the garage at my parents' house. I need to make time to actually dig them out, otherwise i'll be back in opaques before I know it. I love the liberating feeling of wearing bare legs in the summer, so best to make the most of it whilst we can.

Catching dreams

2010-08-08T12:21:00.000-07:00

Went to a beautiful bar where the walls were covered in huge vintage mirrors and the lights hanging from ceiling were adorned with feathers. Theres something about feathrs that add a dreamlike element to anything and everything. Headdresses, jewellery, clothing, accessories. I always think feathers evoke feelings of freedom, perhaps its the link to birds in flight and the sky. I dont know. Possibly one of the best souvenirs I ever bought were the dream catchers I bought from a market stall in Barcelona 4 or 5 years ago. Rather than hanging them above my bed, I pin them to clothing to add that native americana influence I so often speak of. They're also a good talking point. A Boots pharmasist once asked if I was from The Never Ending Story (?!) The only problem is trying to keep feathers pristine. Im going to have to invest in some more as the ones I curently have seem to be falling apart. I still have yet to wear a feathered headdress a la Erin Wasson, but the summer is far from over, there are plenty more dressing up oppertunities.

One of you has to fall

2010-08-05T13:45:00.000-07:00

Stig (of the dump), street urchin, gypsy child, and Medusa. All nicknames I've adopted over the years borne out of bed hair, frayed hemlines, grubby make up hands and tendancy to wear bare feet outside. I would love to have inherited Medusa for my ability to turn men to stone, but alas it originated in the playground, when my 8yo frizzy hair had yet to discover GHDs and greek mythology was clearly current curriculum material. Snakes/frizzy hair....

Obviously there is a time and place to be the polar opposite to the glossy Gossip Girl type. I used to temp in the city, and being a newbie to the office environment, went to my recruitment agency interview wearing my idea of city attire..Although my cv was up to scratch, the agency from then on would always warn me prior to any office work they secured, 'please dress boring, and big hair is not allowed emma.' Four years after no contact I called up for some last minute work and to see if they remembered me. 'Oh yes, the trendy (bless that word) dancer who hated wearing a suit.' Thank god I didnt end up in banking where my parents wanted me to be.

Might be holding your hand, but im holding it loose

2010-08-03T02:31:00.000-07:00

Im sure there is such a thing as too much fringing and tassles, and Im not sure if wearing both fringed shoes and bag crosses that line, or lies just within the border of overkill, but I did it anyway. They definitely add texrture to a look, taking it from ordinary to unusual. These Zara shoes - as with many pieces I own, are an acquired taste. True, they can look like Im wearing a little pair of hooved animals, but they are the most comfortable 5 inch heels I own, with a generous platform sole that enables you to run up escalators without feeling a thing.

Can't you see the grass is greener where it rains

2010-08-02T16:06:00.000-07:00

Take one size 18 cardigan bought for its sequin embellishment, one faded cropped denim jacket, bought three years ago and never worn. Team with a top made for bedtime and standard body con skirt and youve got the above. Without the scarf, the faded effect of all the colours would have made this a complete wash out. Somehow the scarf's tans and turquoise bring everything together.

Ever since I was a little girl my dad would insist on turning up the collar of any jacket I wore so I looked like Kinicki from Grease. Some things stay with you and to this day I cant wear a collared jacket/shirt with the collar down.

The only thing we share is the same sky

2010-07-31T05:12:00.000-07:00

Words can't describe how perfect everything about this is. Sea monster to perfection. Everything is a contradiction. Wearing a jackt in the sun with deepest tan known to man and nothing but the tiniest pair of shorts would only ever be applicable, on a shoot on a desert island. Which is what makes it so achingly perfect. Also ticks all the boxes of oversize teamed with tiny, and a ridiculous amount of accessories as though you stepped out of a pirates treasure chest..

The place we ran from

2010-07-15T02:35:00.000-07:00

With the onset of rain this week and not wanting to shrink any of my pumps (which often happens when I get caught off guard in the rain) these distressed cowboy boots seemed more of a sensible (yes I went for sensible) option. They also act as an optimal contrast to the impractically feminine tutu skirt I decided to don. It's not one of my favourite looks, but one that was clearly constructed whilst half asleep before leaving at a stupid hour in the morning to sleep walk to the gym. Bumped into an old friend in the afternoon who I hadnt seen in ages. Was told they knew it was me from across the street, as only I wear my hair that big and 'cough' that short. Good to hear you leave a lasting impression on some...

This aint a love song, this is goodbye

2010-07-14T03:00:00.000-07:00

Being bitter that I had to put on a pair of tights having spent the last few weeks in bare legs I chose to wear a pair of Henry Holland suspender print tights that I bought ages ago. Cheeky doesnt even cover it and it takes a thick skin to wear these during the day. They make a nice change from standard opaques though, and if you can ignore the banter from strange italian/arabic/lebanese/polish men then I'd definitely recommend them for the hoisery drawer.
And what could be an inconspicuous way to dress down a pair of suspender tights? Layering up of animal print shades of course.

Dustland fairytale beginning

2010-07-12T14:15:00.000-07:00

There's something very fairytale-esque about having all that material of a maxi dress swishing about your ankles. A combination of the tribal print and the chiffon wafts of material, felt like a cross between aztec princess and gypsy queen. And where else would a goddess dine for a midnight snack? The Wolesley of course, next door to the Ritz, where they still serve afternoon tea at quarter to midnight. They drew the line at serving a cream tea though. Scones and clotted cream at midnight, obviously that would just be absurd. Macaroons are fine though ;-)

And im a little bit lost without you

2010-07-12T02:02:00.000-07:00

Lumberjack shirt by Marc O'Polo. Denim cut offs and crimson lips. Oversized men's shirts are perfect lazy sunday best for some much needed R and R and sleeping in the sun. Obviously the lipstick is just an unnecessary addition, but where would be the fun in only ever doing the necessary.

Sin City

2010-07-09T02:39:00.000-07:00

Sin City wasn't a film I paricularly enjoyed, however it did leave an impression on me based on a) it stars Jessica Alba and Devon Aoki b) took monochrome to the next level with accents of blood red. I'm currently having a love affair with black and white. I know I always say that, but right now in particular. Maybe its because everyone looks like theyve jumped into a packet of Skittles with the arrival of the heatwave, so theres less black and white around. Its just so much more striking. It's what the models wear when they're off duty (Japanese magazine Glitter had a double spread on models when they're not being...models). It's the colour of no nonsense. I've spent the last two days desaturated, lifting the look with accents of gun metal - bangles, necklaces and peep toe pumps.

Im up in the woods, im down on my mind

2010-07-06T02:25:00.000-07:00

I always wanted a khaki parker, but could never find one for which the drop waist didnt fall somewhere around my knees (the trials and tribulations of having a shorter than average body.) This khaki shirt however serves a similar purpose. Somehow khaki brings out the best in floral, I suppose at the end of the day, moss and flowers all stem from the same forest family. As for the leopard print pumps, dont ask me why, but when faced with lots of different prints and colours, my gut instinct is to throw more prints and colours into the mix, maybe it's the skitzophrenic in me. With so many colours and prints, subconsciously I believe they will inevitably cancel each other out, blurring into one. As long as the undertones stem from similar hues, in this case greens and browns with accents of colour, you should be fine. It does not work if you throw on every colour under the sun and hope for the best.

Must be your skin im sinking in

2010-07-04T14:38:00.000-07:00

Ive spent the entire weekend nursing a drastically swollen face, following a horrific tooth ache saga which I will not go into. In between romantic films (Before Sunrise and Before Sunset set in Vienna and Paris respectively, desperately hopeful and beautifully captivating) and cocooning, I looked back at previous magazine tears which ive kept over the years for inspiration. I still love every tear. I throw away anything that I no longer like, I only keep the ones I really love. Also found my first blog post, which I drafted on the back of a kid's menu from Shoreditch House. I remember asking for the kid's menu/entertainment pack (as I didnt have a notebook) and the waitress asking if I wanted the crayons too...

Bed head

2010-07-04T05:38:00.000-07:00

Big hair adds drama. 'Messy' big hair however is more of an acquired taste. Messy hair, people either love or hate it. I've had passers by in the street 'tut' and insist I invest in a brush, whilst at the other end of the scale i've had complete strangers gush that my hair is 'fabulous daaaahling' and how do I manage to make it so...big. The idea of neat and tidy hair sends shivers down my spine, yes, it is far more classic and elegant, but those are two adjectives I will never be.

Recipe for big hair:
Dry shampoo - for dark hair Bumble and Bumble hair powder in brown adds a really rich but matte textured darkness. For lighter hair (et moi aussi because im addicted to the glamour of the disco) the new Batiste gold shine has the tiniest flakes of gold in the spray, destined to catch the sunlight. Rubbed vigorously into the roots adds instant volume
Fine tooth comb/real hair bristle brush for sky high backcombing potential
Hairspray (no preference, they all seem to do the same thing to me - 'Big Sexy Hair' if you have a weakness for packaging) Essential if you want your birds nest to stay put
Bumble and Bumble surf spray for an extra matte finish
Clip in hair extensions for maximum bouffant
At least one day old washed hair (trying to create huge hair with a squeeky clean barnet is like trying to win a losing battle, you can backcomb to Mount Everest heights, but but if your hair is shiny and clean, your mountain will inevitably fall)

If on the other hand you would rather do it the way mother nature intended, scrap the above and opt for 'actual' bed hair. You know what I mean. It results in a slightly more haphazard effect, but much more fun ;-)

For Emma, Forever ago

2010-06-30T15:45:00.000-07:00

Go find another lover;

To bring a-to string along

With all your lies

You're still very loveable

I toured the light

So many foreign roads

For emma, forever ago

Bon Iver. When I found out he had written an album For Emma, Forever ago, naturally I had to listen to it. When your name is featured in the title, you can be forgiven for romanticising that, if I had once upon a time been in love with a song writer, they too would have written a similar song about me ;-) Off the top of my head, I dont believe I ever have; until then, this will suffice.

The hotter it gets, the less imagination I have for putting anything together. This is probably as straight forward as it gets. Varying shades of cream, biscuit and taupe. Still having a love affair with my mink skirt, think its time to opt for a new look...

click click snap

2010-06-29T08:38:00.000-07:00

Obligatory sequins, black kohl eyeliner and killer heeled shoe boots. Could you bear to stay in if you looked this good? Mood intoxicating beats playing at full volume inspiring self belief for the night ahead. Strut. Ninety percent of the secret to looking good is the confidence and light you omit, the other ten is the luck of the gene draw. Kate Moss certainly got her fair share in the good looks lottery.

We laugh until we think we'll die

2010-06-28T03:32:00.000-07:00

So I took a detour whilst trying to find the pub in knightsbridge where we watched the masacre of the England football team. Having arrived already half an hour late, I figured missing another 15 mins of the game wouldn’t hurt. And so I found the sliver of the skirt you can see - £2.99. Full price. A pretty productive detour.

Body con skirts are a wardrobe essential. This dusky pink colour acts as a perfect inconspicuous accompaniment when you want something that just blends with the rest of the outfit. Black can be too harsh and white body con I find too club tropicana, best left to holidays in Marbella. The tops -

1. the only piece ive ever bought from the Kate Moss at Topshop range, because of it’s red indian echos. It was also available as a dress, but me being me, figured I could buy it five sizes too big and it would pass as a dress. Not this time. Que body con skirt - useful for coverage, when tops don’t quite make it to ‘dress’ status.

2. a top with the face of a red indian? Sold. The only draw back - the face on your top being cooler than the person wearing it ;-) Summer always unleashes my inner squaw, so many pocahontas inspired posts to come. For those who enjoy getting lost in the spirit of cowboys and indians – this awesome mood lifter and where the post title comes from, will instantly transport you to the wild west. 'Home' by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros.

Braided hair. Minus the feathers. Shame

Tinker, tailor, soldier, sailor

2010-06-23T15:00:00.000-07:00

This itsy bitsy teenie weenie sailorgirl second skin dress, clings to the body like no man's busines. It takes a washboard stomach to pull this off on its own, but on its own it's a cross between a gymnast's leotard (with skirt bottom) and tart - neither label do I aspire to aquire.

Therefore, plus an oversize camisole and you're a bit less mutton and a little bit more lamb. I have a huge collection of camisoles, I loved the underwear as outerwear trend long before SS10 said 'do it.' With camisoles in a size 16/L, they're loose fitting and have a romantic bedtime charm about them. This black cami is ideal for throwing over the top of tiny dresses, making them instantly wearable without having to feel body hugging self conscious. Underneath, who knows, I could have the tummy of shakira... ;-)

Talk about it somewhere only we know

2010-06-21T02:52:00.000-07:00

With so many black and white posts it was time to add a bit of colour. Then I got side tracked by nude shoes mounting up on my bedroom floor.

All five inch plus heel, stacked platform sole and that mink/mushroom/taupe colour im always talking about.

Sunshine footwear for the vertically challenged, or as I prefer to call us, little people.

Castles in the sky sit stranded vandalized

2010-06-19T07:18:00.000-07:00

All my favourite things of the moment, laid out on the bed. Monochrome eat your heart out. I really need to start injecting some colour into my life. Narcisco Rodriguez For Her reminds me of all the happy memories of last summer. I would love to know the psychology behind how a scent can transport your entire being back to a memory, when for a second you literally feel like you have travelled through time.

Talking of triangle bras in my last post, this has got to be a pretty impressive find. From the previously mentioned H&M, this bralet is completely out of character for them. In fact my new boss thought it was a purchase by Marlies Dekkers... Despite being from the lingerie section, I bought it to wear over the top of plain white tees, dresses or kimono tops to add a twist.

I will make no comment about how the front zip fastening is great for detail as well as being pracical. Perfect for after dark ;-)

Don't go to sleep, it's such a bitter form of refuge

2010-06-17T07:41:00.000-07:00

Every wardrobe should consist of fool proof building blocks. In my opinion that's underwear. It's no secret that I would rather go without a bra than wear an underwired one. I hate the feeling of the wire on my ribs, and the bulk it adds under clothing. So I choose triangle bras and bikini tops all year round. H&M in Barcelona have the best triangle underwear selection on a budget, and every time I go, I stock up on lingerie. I still have sets I have yet to wear.

I also don't believe in wearing underwear you wouldn't want to be seen in. So no tshirt bras and ugly granny pants.

I'm definitely a big fan of the 'body', so im glad they've come back. The best ones are cut with a really low back - ultra versatile so you can wear them under anything.

I'm still trying to find the perfect white logo vest. One you could wear to bed and roll out the house the next day wearing and still look effortlessly cool. That has to be the ultimate in lazy dressing. I have so many white vests, yet none of them have that 'can't live without' stamp.

Is there still magic in the midnight sun

2010-06-17T02:07:00.000-07:00

I've never seen the sky argue with itself over whether it's day or night. Surreal experience walking back from the gym last night at 10. The sky was still bright blue (as if noon) yet the moon was out, whilst street lamps were on, naturally because it was less than two hours to midnight.

The colours of dusk matched the tribal print dress - or should I say 'top', I wore yesterday. Originally kneelength and frumpy, I hacked it in half. Despite the number of dresses I mutilate, I still never seem to get this right, which is why so many of my dresses hover dangerously between decent and indecent. Wearing boy shorts underneath, I tell myself it doesnt really matter.

I havent worn these boots since New Year's. Yesterday I remembered why. It is literally like walking on a pair of stilts, which is fine...as long as you dont plan on going anywhere fast.

Jelly and ice cream

2010-06-15T06:25:00.000-07:00

Some days, you wake up wanting to dress for comfort above anything else. I know i've written about both the oversize floral and the granny cardi before, but worn together, it's almost like wearing your pyjamas and duvet at the same time. Pefect for inconspicuous days when a hoodie just wouldn't cut it in the office.

As for the jelly shot, purely because it looked pretty sitting on my desk in the sunlight. Ideal for mid morning hunger pangs. NOT as a substitue to lunch or dinner as I used to be well known for doing!

Saw Cinderella in a party dress

2010-06-14T15:06:00.000-07:00

I have a habit of taking clothing out of it's natural habitat and wearing it other than just for the occasion it was probably designed. Take this dress. Clearly party wear - put it with an oversized slouch tshirt, it instantly dresses it down. Hair - not in its usual back combed, extension clipped state, but in a messy top not (which is apparently the new 'do') almost makes this 'look' day wear. I say almost. It's still pretty dressed up for day time, but what better way to start the week than pumping a little party spririt into your Monday. Never a bad thing.

N.B ...always check what your outfit looks like when the light is behind you. Having usually worn this dress after dark ive never noticed that its actually, um, see-through. It also has a tendancy to molt glitter
everywhere. Not appropriate attire for illicit affairs ;)

Sun down Friday night uptown city lights

2010-06-13T04:48:00.000-07:00

Shock factor - pitch black eye powder and so much glitter you see disco balls when you blink. Black oil slick leather, sequins, broken mirrored pieces, crushed beading, silver metal, studs and bumble and bumbled surf sprayed matte messy hair.

Modern day rock chick, chic rock.

Saw this piece today that is way too much of a showstopper to be confined to the beach. Encompassing the aforementioned and all that I love, I have visions of this cut out swimsuit teamed with a high waisted flared mini and distressed platformed heels, sooty eyes and a messy quiff. Fingerless leather gloves optional, perfect night time attire for dancing till breakfast o clock. Photos to be posted shortly..

Asylum

2010-06-12T15:04:00.000-07:00

My sister can either read my mind, or has an impressive sister intuition. Walking to the train station together this morning, she commented that she liked my 'Edward Scissor Hand' shoes. It wouldn't have been weird, had I not started writing the below post the day before....

These have to be my favourite boots I own. Like a straight jacket for the foot, these shoe boots can make any boring outfit look interesting. When I bought them, they completely struck me as something that Edward Scissor Hands would fashion, the only thing missing is the addition of a few blades.

The bondage factor has a tendancy to attract unwanted attention from builders/white van drivers, but aside from that, they are perfect. I would love to wear them with bare legs, but due to the mid calf cut, this should only be attempted by twig like limbs - imagine the cast of the Nightmare Before Xmas.

That's another Tim Burton creation. and I mentioned his wife in my first ever post. Perhaps he is my unlikely style inspiration.

The stars lean down to kiss you

2010-06-10T14:54:00.000-07:00

Apparently my eye colour changes depending on the weather. I get a lot of people asking me what the colour of my eyes are, so here's a picture, as I have no idea how to put it into words. A mixture of my mother's Japanese almost black eyes, and my father's english blue/grey equals the above. Bizarre.
My sister just read this post and said it sounded like I thought I was a character from the Twilight saga re. colour changing eyes. The changing colour is true, but is purely dependent on the amount of light present - just to clarify; no, I don't believe im a vampire.

Shadows whisper sounds of nothing

2010-06-10T06:34:00.000-07:00

This blog pretty much sums up the erratic nature of the British Summer. One minute you're in a sleeveless dress and bare legs, the next you're bundled up like it's the middle of winter. Keeps us on our toes I guess. I find wearing your entire wardrobe works best, that way you can add or abstract pieces as and when needed throughout the day ;-) The leather leggings remind me of when my friend used to call me aubergine thighs - because that's pretty much exactly what they look like in leather leggings. I doubt they would taste as good in a moussaka though.

Due to heavy showers, I spent my lunch hour hidden away in the creepiest Pret i've ever come across rather than sitting in the sunshine. Partly due to taking lunch at 3.30pm when all normal people are back at work, I had the enirety of the dimly lit basement to myself, leaving me to read a back issue of Vogue and enjoy my tub (yes all 500g worth) of soya yoghurt in peace. I seem to have developed an addiction to soya - yoghurt, milk, cheese, tofu, edemame beans, the lot.

I also managed to swap my All Saints ring for a new one after it broke at a bbq - I am now only allowed to wear it on 'special' occasions. Despite its tough exterior, it's actually very delicate. Proof that looks can be deceptive.

Sweet dreams till sun beams find you

2010-06-05T01:42:00.000-07:00

Cerulean blue, endless ocean sky

Playground of unknown, infinity of dreams

You know when the sun shines so bright it bounces off every surface straight into your eyes, making you dizzy with distorted vision? That was what it was like today. The sunshine was intense, but there is something euphorically uplifting about waking up to a clear blue sky, and feeling the sun kiss your skin as you leave the house. It makes you want to embrace cool and airy dressing, anything that catches the breeze and brings the temperature down. Brownie points for those spotted today wearing chiffon and floaty silk.
Although a visible bra is usually a big no no, this isnt just any old bra - this is a Damaris bra :-)

Until you were gone

2010-06-01T05:12:00.000-07:00

Never a truer word spoken.
Maxi dresses are making a big come back this season, this time round in slogan tshirt form. No need to wear your heart on your sleeve anymore, your clothing can do it for you.
Not sure how well a maxi dress works on a 5 ft frame, but who cares. A lot of silverware, flip flops, quirky shades and big hair. Et voila.

you can own the earth and still

2010-05-29T08:33:00.000-07:00

The English weather is like a nursery rhyme. When it is good, it is very very good, but when it is bad, it is horrid. Four days ago I was delving into my summer wardrob, now I'm reaching for fur gilets?! I hate the rain, but if I can justify wearing peep toe shoe boots in the coldest of winter, a little bit of rain isnt going to stop me. These suede finish tie front peep toes remind me of something Pocahontas would have worn, had she chosen to wear heels. Perhaps not the most practical footwear for trying to catch your dinner - or painting with all the colours of the wind ;-) The gilet is purely for warmth, whilst the horse print shirt is an item I found in the 'men's section' of a vintage shop, a long time ago. Bearing in mind it just about fits me, gives a slightly worrying impression of the size of men a few decades ago. Fair enough if the shirt was a 'small,' I could comprehend being the same size as a 'small' man. However, the letter on the tag says...... 'L'.

Guns n roses

2010-05-28T17:52:00.000-07:00

Finally took the oppertunity to venture into All Saints to find something to buy as my leaving present with the voucher. I adore the dirty gunmetal ring chosen (centre finger) - already had a handful of comments asking where I got the knuckle duster! Unintentionally it compliments my other favourite accessories, and works well with black - ideal considering its the easiest hue in my wardrobe. Happened upon the electra black wristband - somehwere in the closet - no idea where or what it is from.

I could have gone for an entirely noir/charcoal outfit, but the skies were blue when I left the house this morning, it seemed wrong not to wear an item that gave a nod to old mr sunshine and say thank you for popping out. Hence the rose bouquet print body con dress.

I can dream of ways to see you, I can close my eyes to dream

2010-05-25T15:41:00.000-07:00

Summer dressing is tricky - if I think the key to cool is layering, and summer requires the less is more mentality, hiding beneath a multitude of layers is not an option. Instead, every summer I return to my fool proof collection of floral dresses. I've had the same summer wardrobe for the last four years. Floral dresses, cowboy boots/nude chunky sandals, cardigans and satchels. This summer im thinking of trying the maxi dress/skirt thing.

The floral dress pictured has been completely reworked, without any sewing or cutting. Initially a knee length dress with crew neckline and elasticated waist, the use of some safety pins and a Mimi Holiday bra, it was turned into a baby doll empire line dress; with plunging neckline and fish tail hem (ie. short front, longer back.) Criss cross back detailing gives the dress added quirk.

Leather wings

2010-05-22T14:01:00.000-07:00

So it seems Kate Moss and I are on the same wavelength. But she beat me to a look and ended up in In Style wearing it! Ever since I started wearing the grey boyfriend jacket, I decided a nude/pale pink would be perfect for the summer season. I found the exact one I wanted on eBay, the deal was practically done and dusted - with mental notes made on all the outfits it would work with - when some cheeky geek outbid me at the last minute. That's why I never use eBay, I don't really understand it. Regardless, this oversize slouch nude biker jacket will do. It's a cross between a jacket and a shirt and exactly the right shade and weight for the fresh warmer weather that's decided to grace us with its presence.

Knit one, pearl one

2010-05-21T16:00:00.000-07:00

Love this batwing big knit cardi. My mother had one from the 70s but I cant find it anywhere. Saw a girl wearing this and thought she must have thrifted it from a vintage/charity shop. You can imagine my delight when I found it in Topshop. I adore cardigans that look like they belong to your granny. Comfort with history (even if it is brand new!) I cant wait to wear it with denim cut offs (my addiction to contrasting volumes.) My only qualm is, I hate buying something that looks like it has been in your wardrobe forever. I suppose every staple has to be born at some point though. Wear with a fistful of silverwear and leather, so your granny cardi doesn't look 2000 and late.

Was still a nip in the air when I left in the morning, so added the fur stole which I have had for years, a freebie from a a supermarket fashion brand I used to do the PR for. Sadly, in between leaving the gym and arriving at work I managed to misplace it. Another one bites the dust :-(

The big easy

2010-05-17T23:42:00.000-07:00

Im sure I've mentioned this before, but I have a thing about contrasting shapes and the balancing out of volumes. By rule of thumb, a voluminous upper body, eg batwing baggy top or oversized tshirt, should be worn with a skinny bottom half ie. leggings, body con skirt and opaques, skinny trousers. Likewise, if the bottom is a maxi skirt, hareem pants, voluminous a- line mini, the top should be tight and snug. It's all about the balancing act.

Took the easy option and wore leggings with a huge floral top. And I mean huge. It's the easiest throw on piece, and requires no thought. It also has the perk of hiding everything and anything, particularly if you're having a 'fat' day. I could have smuggled 6 loaves of bread out of a bakery under that top - if I had wanted to. Negatives: if the wind blows, you run the risk of having a profile similar to humpty dumpty, but I hear he's making a come back in the style icon stakes ;-). Hair in a messy top knot, and the standard dousing of accessories. Done.

I also made the discovery of the pair of spandex shiny leggings at the back of my wardrobe this morning - the kind Sandy wore in the final scene of Grease when she became 'cool.' They scream touch me.

Layer cake

2010-05-16T08:06:00.000-07:00

As much as I love the idea of minimal summer dressing, transitional weather has to be a layer addict's dream. Unpredictable weather, and at least a 17% chance of showers at any one time, in London a hood is pretty much a necessity. Especially, if like me, you'd rather fill your bag with fun stuff like dry hair shampoo and lipglosses that smell like bubblegum, rather than lugging around a brolly.

Layering in my opinion is the key to taking a look and making it your own. It's the flash of a cuff under a long sleeve top, a hood spilling out over a boyfriend jacket, a shearling gilet over a leather biker. The same applies to accessories. Layer up and edit down until you are satisfied. Or, if you are like me, pile them on...... and leave the house.

Transitional weather is also the perfect excuse for afternoon tea. When it's mid May and freezing outside, its the ideal oppertunity for a pot of English breakfast and a piece of cake. Don't mind if I do.

Pour me a heavy dose of atmosphere

2010-05-10T02:46:00.000-07:00

I've always thought Sunday's should be spent browsing the vintage treasure coves of Brick Lane and

Columbia Road flower market. This Sunday finally bit the bullet and head East bound for a test shoot for a handbag label. Columbia Road is a labarynth of houses with hobbit sized doorways only just wide enough to walk through - converted into vintage clothes and accessories shops, cup cake bakerys, art gallerys, shops selling one off hand crafted bits and bobs and of course the market itself. Stunning selections of flowers and burley market stall owners. 'Have you got a body guard love? Would you like one?' was just a sample of the banter being thrown around that afernoon.

Being my second location shoot this week - i'm starting to get used to the difficulties shoots can encounter with the unpredictability and curiosity of the public. However, they did lend a helping hand, and provided props we could only have dreamt of shooting. One guy offered his beautifully obedient chubby little sausage dog (unfortunately we had to give it back) and a garden boutique let us shoot in their sardine tin sized back yard with vintage benches, plant pots and bird cages. Just before the daylight came to a close and the market had disappeared, an Italian couple let us shoot the models on their vintage scooter - all packed up with flowers they'd bought from the market. Sometimes the best shots are taken at the end of the day, just before twilight.

The last shot is of the model's own shoes, I love.

Fish, Chips, Cup o Tea, Bad Food, Worse Weather, Mary F*cking Poppins... London.

2010-05-08T16:07:00.000-07:00

This week, had the pleasure of assiting a men's high end fashion shoot on location in London, working alongside Tanja Martin (stylist mentioned in previous post). Tanja's vision was to take a well dressed man and place him amidst the tack of typical tourist attire - a combination of noisy European school children, over eager Americans and snap happy Japanese. Where better to head for the ultimate in tourist fashion faux pas than the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, street performers and fair ground rides of South Bank, lions of Trafalgar Square and statue of Eros in Picadilly Circus. It was an exhausting but inspirational experience, and gave me an insight into the styling of luxury menswear.

(A cheeky shot I managed to take whilst on the shoot -

check out the kinky thigh high boots donned by the guard...)

Unfortunately the previous week's sunshine decided not to show up for the party, so my hasty warm weather choice of shirt dress and thin leather waterfall jacket was a big mistake. Resorted to borrowing a burgundy Lanvin cardigan from the samples, surprisingly it worked. Refusing to be caught out for the second day running, I layered up with hoodie, leather biker jacket, snakeskin leggings and a couple of vests.

Close your eyes, give me your hand

2010-05-08T14:58:00.000-07:00

Darlin', do you feel my heart beating? Eternal Flame - Bangles no.1 classic.

Following the sad departure of my armlets (some lucky suspect in Zara swiped them from under my nose whilst I was busy sampling a sequin embellished biker jacket i'd found on SALE,) bangles are now my armour of choice. The more the merrier. It seems I can't get enough of the suckers. As my friend mentioned the other night whilst we dined in temperatures equivalent to dining al fresco in the middle of November, I looked like I had a bionc arm that could do some serious damage. Fashion with self defense benefits. Sweet.
Word of warning, not suitable for libraries, offices, quiet sections on the train or any other locations where noise is monitored. Tucking into a bag of Snack a Jacks on the train home from work one eve, I was subject to a fair few dirty looks. This was understandable considering there are approximately 20 rice cakes to a bag, so at least 40 journeys of the hand to and from bag to mouth. That's a lot of bangle jingle jangling. In the end, even I got sick of the racket, so took them off. But some grumpy so and so's are never satisfied and the dirty looks continued due to the crunching of my salt and vinegar afternoon tea. The removal of noisy bangles I can handle, but I refuse to resort to sucking rice cakes to avoid noise pollution. Needless to say, ol' misery guts was left to grin and bear the crunch.

In the buff

2010-04-27T08:48:00.000-07:00

Everywhere you look there are articles popping up about Chanel's sell out nail hue Particuliere. A gorgeous minky taupe colour, classic and subtle and the polar opposite to the severe midnight ink and gothic rose tones that were the fashion of fingertips last winter. When looking for the perfect nude shoes or dress, I always fixate on this mushroomy colour, and Chanel have gone and thrust it into the limelight in the form of a nail laquer. As much as I loved the Jade of the SS10 Chanel catwalks, there is only so much mileage you can get out of a green nailpolish, and as serene as it is, there isn't an abundance of looks that work alongside 'mint green'. Chanel's Particuliere is one step closer to melting into any ensemble, a minky milky taupe paint, the kind of colour you'd get if you left milk and white chocolate buttons together to mingle in the sun.

But for even more wearability, tis the season to go nude. Not to be mistaken with the french manicure or a peachy tint, this colour is so inconspicuous it could almost be classed as a 'non' colour. Duo personality shade, it has the ability to be both delicately feminine whilst slightly creepy. The closer the colour to your skin tone, the better the nude hue - think those freaky mannequin hands, where fingers and nails blend into one - and you've pretty much got it.

Finding the right shade is key. I absolutely adored the Essie nailpolish, Jazz that I spotted on my friend last week. However, when it came to trying it on, it made my hand look like it belonged in a morgue. So make sure it compliments your skin tone.

Nail laquer is fast becoming the quick fashion fix for the immediate wardrobe update, minus the guilty price tag. Whoever gets to come up with the quirky names for nailpolish must have a lot of fun - Tea with the Queen, Minky Muffs, Pillow Talk and Baby Breath are to name but a few that I have come across whilst writing this post. It must be like playing pick and mix with your favourite words. Possibly almost as fun as Ben and Jerry must have thinking up those creamed ice flavours, the ultimate in cool jobs.

Aviator jackets and the death of the cupcake

2010-04-26T03:13:00.000-07:00

Apparently, as stated by Sunday Times Style last week, cupcakes are SO last season, and the stylish new kid on the block is the macaroon. If purchasing the below from Lola's Kitchen makes me unfashionable, then I reckon I can live with that.

However, sometimes I wish things didnt make it 'in fashion.' 'In fashion' then leads to accessible, which results in overexposure...and then 'no longer fashionable.' With macaroons, the very nature of their exclusivity is what makes them so special. To be fair, being born in Paris, they were always going to be chic. But the fact that you have to hunt them down to purchase the beautiful little treats from Laduree and Pierre Herme gives them that je ne sais quoi edge. As soon as they are announced 'on trend and in fashion' its just a downward spiral before they lose their 'untouchable' status. (Bear with me, this post does relate to fashion eventually.) Take the cupcake. Carrie featured eating a cupcake in an episode of Sex in the City. Soon after, England cottoned on to the US cupcake craze and Hummingbird Bakery and Lola's Kitchen were born. With their rainbow piped icing sprinkled with crystilised rose petals, freeze dried strawberries and glitter, they are every girls eyegasmic food. Sure enough, everyone jumped onto the band wagon, and all of a sudden you could get cupcakes from Tesco Express. And then the magic was gone.

I have yet to fulfil my dream of visiting every Laduree tea room around the world. Ok, so far I have only crossed Paris off the list, but since visiting Paris, I have made it my silent mission to visit the Laduree tea rooms in Tokyo, Monaco, London and Switzerland. However, if macaroons become available from your Sainsburys Local, this fairytale mission will have to be aborted.

My fashion link relates to the Burberry AW10 collection. I have been a long time lover of shearling, trying to find a brown distressed leather jacket with a shearling collar trim and cuffs.They are difficult to source and unless you can find an oversized vintage men's version, they come with a hefty price tag. Acne have pretty much my ideal, but at £750 a pop, its always been a no go. Then, this season, Burberry decides to take inspiration from the two World Wars and unleash the aviator jacket. With its HUGE oversize collar and sheepskin detailing, it is 100% spot on.

However, in the back of my mind all I can think is - you b*stards - now every high street and its mother will be racing to see who can get the trend onto the shop floor the fastest. The accessory that I have lusted after for years all of a sudden becomes everyone's A/W must have, before I even had a chance to own/wear it!

Walk like you mean it, strut like you don't care

2010-04-23T10:54:00.000-07:00

Sitting in the sunshine on Carnaby Street following coffee with freelance stylist Tanja Martin who's been giving me tips and advice on how to go about getting into the styling industry. What ive learnt? That I am about to embark on the poorest and most knackering years of my life....working for free to gain respect and experience whilst spending every spare waking minute waitressing/working behind a bar to pay any necessary bills. In other words pretty much working around the clock in pursuit of the end goal. However, a good friend of mine once told me that nothing worth having ever came easily...so im not about to give up just yet. yling clearly comes with its highs and lows, and her toughest styling assignment to date? creating, a high end men's underwear shoot without making it look, how do I put this...... 'too gay' (!)

Mooched around the concessions floor in Topshop's flagship and discovered a cool brand Quontum. Specializes in extreme cutout body con, featuring a high volume injection of chiffon. As is standard with taking photos of pieces that I love in stores, I had the usual interrogation. Luckily they weren't a jobsworth, and said I didnt look like the sort who would rip off someone else's designs (whatever that looks like?!) This turned into a half hour conversation discovering that the guy's mother was the designer and owner of Quontum, and there may be potential creative oppertunities with her. The dress would look awesome with black suede platform ankle boots/pair of bondage strap sandals, bare legs and a dirty South American tan.

Had an interview with GQ Style for a possible internship whilst they create the next biannual issue. Nightmare last night trying to decide what to wear. Dressing to impress a top men's style magazine is a whole different ball park. In the end I went with a black chiffon mini dress, paired down with a dove grey boyfriend jacket, faithful leaopard print scarf which always adds punch, statement bangles and studded oversize clutch. I was asked to describe the look that I would bring to the magazine if I were to style a shoot.....something I probably should have put more thought into. Thinking on my feet I opted for 'classic with an alternative twist, distressed dapper' which he seemed to like the sound of.
Leaving Vogue House that afternoon following the interview I discovered, low and behold, smack bang next door - my good friend, Itsu :-)

Oh and im using my All Saints gift card case as my new oyser card holder. Much more understated than the yellow plastic tat National Rail offer.

oh reckless abandon, like no ones watching you

2010-04-23T08:23:00.000-07:00

It has been an age since my last post, with easter, mothers day, cutting the umblical chord on my Maverick Publicity fashion pr role and winter turning to spring taking place. Finding time to post has been impossible. This makes me sad. Unlike being given my daily itsu frozen yoghurt on the house....Sometimes it pays to have a predictable lunchtime routine.

I had no idea there were so many cherry blossom trees near my parents' home. With the arrival of spring a) I can now legitimately wear peep toe boots without being interrogated by strangers if my toes are numb, b) notice cherry blossom trees seem to have popped up everywhere bringing the beauty of japanese spring time to the suburbs of the outskirts of London. I am totally envious of my friend who has just jetted off for a fortnight in Tokyo. We were discussing the delights of Japanese cuisine....oddly enough sushi didnt get a look in, instead, how you can get sweet potato in every shape and form, ranging from cakes and crisps, to flavoured kitkats and freshly baked as a snack from the 99 yen store. My adoration for sweet potato is part of the reason why I believe Japan is where I belong ;)

Cherry blossoms

As a leaving present from my fashion pr job, I was given an All Saints gift card - my love for the brand is clearly no secret. The present was just a prime example of how attention to detail can transform something from ordinary to extraordinary. The gift card came in a material covered hard back holder with the All Saints logo and personal message inside, so I can now use it to carry around my oyster card. It's almost a present in itself! Saying goodbye to the office where I have worked for the last three and a half years, was slightly daunting, but sometimes you have to put yourself out there to get anywhere. Here's hoping.

My biggest worry is finding a new frozen yoghurt supplier. I wish there was an Itsu on every street corner!

you're the honey and the moon

2010-03-07T08:58:00.000-08:00

Have been listening to this song on repeat. The last couple of weeks have been a blur spent frantically trying to get my life back together and reign in the chaos. Searching for a house, a new job, work experience, blog and website. Deciding whether to hit the bottle (bleach not alcohol! black is too harsh for the coming summer months.) Another birthday, this time my best friend from university. I've known him ever since our first term. He's one of those people who makes you laugh till it hurts. I mean really hurts, when your cheekbones are in pain and you can barely breath. Apart from the year he went to teach English in Japan, we've lived and breathed each other for the last 7. We graduated, lived and now in London, worked together. But as with most good things, the daily interaction must come to an end, and as of next month we'll finally go our separate ways. Its the end of an era. Im hoping we'll still meet up for a coffee and choreographing of the odd dance or two, a pass time that has ceased to exist since leaving our Exeter roots.

Every year I provide a hand made greeting card, so the afternoon was spent creating my 7th to add to his collection. For the only boy to share my love for dirty bass lines, Haribo so sour itll give you jaw lock, Vogue main fashion and not too afraid to tell me that I hit my peak Halloween 2005. Charming child ;) Happy Birthday David.

My peak. Apparently.

if I had you here, i'd clip your wings

2010-03-03T10:25:00.001-08:00

Saturday, focussed on my new fashion editorial post for Drivelikeawoman.com - a New York based website that has decided to branch out and expand its fashion following. After heading to China Town for gossip and dimsum - I did some vital research into motocross pants. After researching though, I'm wondering why I dont have a pair yet.

Oh to own a pair of Balmain....

Sunday, being the undeniable queen of big hair, I took my backcombing and styling skills to a friend's shoot for music publicity shots. We shot in a converted turkish baths which is now the aptly named club/restaurant The Bath House, East London. An underground treasure filled with giant bird cages, Jesus figurines and moody atmospheric lighting. After giving Sophie the perfect 'bed hair', Alexander Wang style bra and body con skirt, we met with the French photographer Michel. He was keen to hear my input, but apparently most of my ideas were too editorial for what he was after :( I took that as a compliment.

The little girls room was the venue's hidden gem - ceiling to floor completely covered in black and white photos - Im kicking myself for not getting a cheeky shot in there...next time :)

truffle catwalk show

2010-03-01T00:50:00.000-08:00

Hectic non stop week. Thursday eve was spent rushing across London from my fashion PR job to the Hay Hill Gallery in Mayfair, assisting backstage at the Truffle catwalk show. The up and coming designer, Sofia Strazzanti, specialises in Saville Row bespoke womenswear. The name comes from the marrying of Sofia's 2 loves, food and fashion, and what more luxurious food is there other than the truffle - both the chocolate and the shroom! Being the assigned dresser for the model who failed to show up, I had to forefit my role backstage for the priviledge of sitting pole position at the head of the runway. You could see how Sofia takes inspiration from raw materials such as earth and precious stones, echoing the textures and colours throughout her pieces, it was a truly stunning show.

At the end of the night we all mucked in to break down the event. It was a huge success but with everyone more keen to crawl into their pyjamas than get their dancing shoes on, pre-conceptions of after partying were scuppered. Note to self - sky scraper wedges might be comfortable and stop your 5ft frame from disappearing backstage amongst 6ft models, but at the end of a 15 hour day - your feet will not be your friends.

Unfortunately due to copyright reasons I'm not able to post any photos from the show, but click on the link below to view the stunning collection.

http://www.truffledesign.com/latest-news/

If you weren't real, I would make you up

2010-02-24T10:00:00.000-08:00

Anja Rubik, Lily Donaldson and Kate Moss.

Personifications of how to emulate elegance whilst maintaining their untouchable aura of attitude.

I could google these ethereal creatures for hours. My best friend and I used to lie on the living room floor of our Hammersmith flat, going through mugs of hot chocolate, raspberries and rice cakes, studying tear sheets we'd collected for the week. Sometimes we are so on the same wavelength we would end up with the same pages. We'd lust after Anja's lithe limbs, the cheekbones of Moss and respect Lily's ability to wear a microscopic mini and carry it off without looking like a tart! I miss living with my best friend Cherry. She has impeccible style, like noone else I have ever met. Being 5ft 4" with a tiny frame, she's like a miniature model (she'll kill me for saying that.) I have been meaning to do a shoot with her for a while now. Coming soon.

If we ever meet again

2010-02-21T11:38:00.000-08:00

Ever since my first year at university when a close friend gave me the nickname Pocahontas ive had an obsession with red indians - feathers, dream catchers, tassles etc, hence the holding photo for my blog. On looking for all my red indian pieces I found my favourite perfumes by Narcisco Rodriguez. Its funny how a smell or fragrance can bring back a hundred memories in a second.

Lit some candles, burnt some incense and streamed for updates on the AW10 NY and London fashion shows so far. Favourite shows to be posted shortly.

Talking of red indians and happy memories, this photo was taken a year or two ago, when I admit that I reached for the bleach and was a strawberry blonde. Ive been toying with the idea of going back to lighter roots with summer on the way, but wondering if some things are best left in the past? As of yet im not convinced blonde is the way forward, but knowing how quickly I get bored of the same look, a revamp is surely on the horizon. Ill keep you posted..

Artificial Intelligence

2010-02-12T10:50:00.000-08:00

Had a creative outburst and remembered how much I used to love making all my birthday cards. With all my materials currently held hostage in storage, I hunted down some hand made fine gauaze, glitter, skeleton leaves, and refreshed my memory on the Japanese art of folding paper. Just as the flowers have become the signature feature in my hair, origami birds used to be a signature feature on the cards I made.

The afternoon saw an old favourite tartan oversize blanket scarf and hooded jersey pea coat that makes me look like little navy riding hood keep me warm. Went searching for a birthday present in Spitalfields and came across the most beautiful flower stall, adorned with aged antique pink and vintage ivory roses, it looked like a scene misplaced from a fairytale.

In between frozen yoghurts and discovering I was a day late for the antique market I had wanted to visit to find some vintage chopsticks (turns out they are harder to find than you think) I picked up a pair of intelligent glasses. I know I am a few seasons late in jumping on this bandwagon, but to be honest, I hate wearing anything in the height of its popularity. I prefer to wear something either before it has become main stream, or much later on when the hype has died down. That way you run a lesser risk of bumping into someone wearing the same thing as you! Anyway, back to the glasses , its funny how fashion has the inexplicable knack to reinvent. How an industry could take an item once the source of playground ridicule and turn it into a must have accessory (albeit a couple of seasons ago) worn by men and women alike never ceases to astonish me. Bring on the four eyed boffin.

Got your lipstick mark, still on my coffee cup

2010-02-09T01:41:00.000-08:00

Saturday afternoons are perfect for catching up on 'me' time, wandering aimlessly, sipping Starbucks with stupid names - (personal favourite "grande coffee frapuccino light with sugar free hazlenut syrup double blended) writing love letters/thank you letters, flicking through the latest edition of Harper's/Vogue, messing around with the settings on my camera and catching the sky in the lens as it changes from daylight to twilight at frightening speed.

Even though now 26, my English grandmother still sends me money for Christmas and birthdays, so I opted to thank her the old fashioned way and send a hand written letter, sealed with a kiss. Old school.

All that glitters

2010-02-09T00:33:00.000-08:00

Three of my favourite clutch bags, all for their own little reasons.

The vintage diamante clutch has immense sentimental value. My mother gave it to me on my 25th birthday whilst in Japan packing up my grandfather's house following his passing away. It was a very sad time and not the reason we had hoped to return to Japan after ten years. Whilst packing everything away we found the bag (untouched, still with the original tissue paper inside) that my grandparents had bought for her when she had been about my age - authentic vintage at its stunning best. But with so much sentimental value I am terrified of losing it, so it doesnt get a chance to make many guest appearances.

A 'favourite of mine but probably shouldn't be because it's not mine' is the oversized jewelled clutch. I bought it as a Christmas present for my sister a few years ago and then adopted it as my own. The leather is butter soft, but has had so many outings its managed to collect some unfortunate coffee, wine and biro stains - such is the price you pay for being a favourite (that you're not too scared to use!)

Its Complicated...

2010-02-01T15:29:00.001-08:00

Oversized cropped tops teamed with skin tight bottoms or body con skirts give the perfect balance to a voluminous vs streamlined silhouette. Also in keeping with my love for anything monochrome at the moment, I adore graphic text such as this top - 'its complicated' (which is pretty apt right now.)

I cant wait for summer to return, cropped tops worn how they used to be in the 90s - Miami style - with little shorts, bare legs, ballet pumps, aviators and hopefully a sun kissed sliver of toned tummy... this winter seems to be lasting forever. Roll on sunshine. Contemplating booking a holiday, I desperately need to get away and my best friend has just emailed a few ideas. I can almost feel the suns rays on my skin. At least the nights have stopped getting dark at 4pm. Played with my reflection and the street lamps to create ghost like pictures before caking my eyes in make up and heading out into the frosty night. Crop tops with tights, a fur coat and mittens just doesnt seem right, but for now it will have to do.

Cause if you're not really here, then i dont want to be either

2010-01-23T09:14:00.000-08:00

Its funny how you can always find things to do to fill the time whilst waiting for a train.

I decided to mess around with the 'mind the gap' sign and focus on the the 'Black and Gold' (hence the post title) accessories chosen to sport that day, much to the distress of those travelling home from the city during peak time... Playing with a camera on the platform when people are desperate to get home at the end of the day is perhaps a naive idea, almost falling into the gap myself amidst the hustle and bustle.

Since dying my hair, ive taken to wearing plainer clothes and less and less colour, fused with tougher accessories, to compliment and perhaps distract from the severity of the hair. The shoes, armlets and bracelets worn in this post have all quickly become firm favourites in my wardrobe. And animal print seems to be a common thread in the last couple of posts. What can I say....miaow ;)

Curiouser and curiouser...

2010-01-23T02:12:00.001-08:00

Hats in all shapes and sizes came together last week to celebrate my turning 26. Previous posts make no secret that im a sucker for fancy dress, so we conjured up the Mad Hatter Tea Party theme - no hat no entry. 20 girlfriends, courtesy of Patrick - had an amazing sit down dinner followed by drinks and dancing into the wee hours of the morning.Invitations specified guests wear something fabulous, accessorized by hat of their choice - the too cool for school wore trilbys and oversized floppys J-Lo style, the wary dipped their toe in the hat theme and wore fascinators and oversized bows, whilst the brave opted for indian headresses and hats from the forces. There was even a pair of Louis Vuitton bunny ears in the mix - tres chic. Being the 'belle of the ball' and not wanting to be outhatted I took the theme literally and decided to fashion my head gear on the Mad Hatter himself, or rather Gwen Steffani's interpretation - a black top hat sprayed silver with fabric snow leopard print flowers (yes, after a xmas vacation the girl with flowers in her hair is back)

The club scene doesnt usually warrant a toe skimming dress, however birthdays come but once a year. Hunting high and low I finally found a black satin nightie I could work with, following a stern warning from the shop assistant whilst standing half naked - that you are NOT allowed to try clothing on, on the shop floor (NB. It was ten minutes till closing time on the penultimate day of my party, I did not have time to go in search of a fitting room!) This repremanding was quickly forgotten at the till when I found out the dress had been reduced to nine pounds. Happy Birthday to me.

Never one to leave things as they are, when I got home I ripped the straps to transform into a halter neck, cut a deep v to create a backless finish and felt tipped the red and cream floral embroidery for a completely noir ensemble. Et voila, customising is clearly the way forward when you're late, you're late, for a very important date!

Played you like a toy - sometimes I wish I could act like a boy

2010-01-10T13:50:00.000-08:00

Have spent sunday afternoon watching the snow fall and doing little else apart from tasting the rainbow and picking at Skittles and a temporary watch swap. Unfortunatley Patrick got the raw end of the deal having to wear my metal ten pound bargain, whilst I gave birth to a newly found obsession with his Panerai diving watch...

Ive always preferred men's accessory departments, H&M, All Saints and Diesel in particular. They make their sunglasses, jewellery and hats that little bit bigger (ideal for encompassing my excessive mane) or simpler which are definitely more suited to my style. There's something quietly sexy about a girl wearing boy toys. Take for example the Panerai, I adore how the chunky face and tough oversize black strap highlight and accentuate the daintiness and fragility of a girl's wrist. The contrasting elements complete a fierce look that can either be played up with other androgynous pieces or dressed down with a girly floral number.

After visiting the Chanel head offices whilst in Paris I fell in love with the white ceramic J12 but this love has now been replaced by my quest to find a watch as cool as the Panerai at a fraction of the £3k plus price tag... suggestions on a postcard more than welcome ;)

So far Fossil and Aldo seem to be coming up with the goods and im currently trying to decide between the three below to add to my wishlist.

However I have a sneaky suspiscion that with the Aldo watches priced at £25.00, one of the latter two will most likely make the cut.

I've got love for you, if you were born in the '80s

2010-01-01T06:24:00.000-08:00

5, 4, 3, 2, 1

And so we enter a new decade. It was the perfect start when literally on the stroke of midnight it started to snow. Most people were too busy attempting to link arms and sing Auld Lang Syne - I discovered I still don't know the lyrics. Equipped with my long lost polaroid camera (left at a friend's house 8 months ago following a cowboys and indians party,) it was the ideal accessory for some retro 80s snap shots.

The sailor's hat didn't make an appearance. Last minute change of plans meant if i'd had more time I probably would have worked some magic with a cocktail dress and shoulder pads. Instead I stayed with the monochrome and went for a fusion of Madonna circa 'Like a Virgin' and Winona Ryder in ultimate bitch fest Heathers. Body con skirt, red lipstick, batwing tee, lace cut off gloves and pearl necklaces, finished off with a pair of wayfarers and leopard print bangles.

After a lot of champagne, home made punch and the Flash Dance soundtrack, it was time to head home. Tubes were running all night, and we managed to source a 24 hour Wasabi for 6am sushi. Good times. As much as I love my new boots, after 11 hours standing/stumbling they had to come off, somewhere between Victoria and West Ken, hence the addition of a little glass to my foot. Sad times. But I was too high on life (aka tipsy) to care!

Happy New Year everyone.

Day dreaming in black and white

2009-12-30T15:46:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I suffer from insomnia, tonight is one of those nights... I've been exploring in the storage room of my parents house (where I am staying for the holidays) and came across a mood board that I put together a couple of years ago of my favourite tear sheets...

It has reinforced my decision to opt for a black and white monochrome movie get up to see in the new year...perhaps with a touch of sin city red lipstick. That is unless I change my mind before leaving the house for a last minute costume swap. What I do know for sure is I will be paying homage to NYE 2006 and donning my sailor's hat. Just for the hell of it ;)

Accessorized with...

My favourite pendants I wear with everything - H&M men's dogtag, H&M rings on chain, Diesel 'Only the Brave' pendant with elephant

Even if the sky is falling down...

2009-12-30T05:04:00.000-08:00

Damn you - THE LLBD - little leather black dress

It may be miserable and pouring with rain outside, but the countdown to the closing of the year has begun - in two days we say goodbye and thank you to 2009 and hello to all the possibilities 2010 has in store. Even though the night is ridiculously over rated, its an excuse to pile on the glitter and dress up to the nines, because its NYE! Stupidly I decided to buy a 2009 updated take on the LBD, a leather minuscule dress found in the sale, as an incentive to not overindulge at Christmas. Note to self, leather dresses, or rather PU, have absolutely no give whatsoever - apres Christmas parties are therefore not their friend. I now have a dress that will look fabulous hanging in my closet tomorrow night, as the prospect of squeezing into that baby is now a big fat Zero!

With this in mind I've decided to opt out of uber dress up and instead focus on laid back cool as a house party awaits. Hopefully there will be a childish impromptu game of twister, for which the leather strapless mini dress would have been most inappropriate. See, I knew there was a reason why I 'didn't want to wear that dress anyway' ;)

Merry Christmas and Festive Gift Wrapping...

2009-12-27T15:01:00.000-08:00

Just a quick blog update to say Merry Christmas! From now on I will be regularly updating my blog due to Santa's generous delivery of a shiny new net book down the chimney/radiator pipes (see, it pays to leave out the Bailey's milk and Taste the Difference cookies) so no more excuses. I can blog wherever and whenever I like!

The girl with flowers in her hair has also, during the festive period, been gift wrapped and replaced flowers for bows. With Louis Vuitton debuting the Alice in Wonderland headbands and over sized rabbit ears this season (pictured above accompanied by thigh high boots...miaow) I decided to wear my over sized glitter bow (that has only made an outing twice, the first time being NYE last year!) and chiffon bow Alice bands during the Xmas holidays....makes a nice fairytale change from the flowers. No doubt they will return in 2010 ;)

Parisian Chic - Mais où est l'inspiration?

2009-12-11T04:07:00.000-08:00

I havent revisited Paris since my childhood, and I can honestly say last weekend I fell in love with the city all over again. It felt as though I were stepping off the train and into the colour version of Luc Besson's stunningly shot "Angel-a". You can feel the romance and culture hanging in the air, the xmas lights and festive window dressing (a perfect example being Repetto, the famous ballerina shoe shop pictured below) adding the magical finishing touch.

Culture and city beauty aside, I had visions of walking into the pages of French Vogue - the style is fierce, the girls have a quiet arrogance - which indeed they have earnt; there is a definite sense of "look but don't touch." As a population the average woman is perfectly groomed, donning head to toe shades of midnight and charcoal with the odd spattering of white to lift the ensemble - the fashion industry's uniform palette. Paris is typically stereotyped for its achingly stylish crowd and it certainly did not disappoint, especially in the more affluent parts of town. However, as intimidating as this may be, the real head turners and eye catching ones that make you do a double take are hard to find.

Whilst in a small boutique courtyard off the Rue St Honore, we bumped into a trend forecaster in the midst of, to me, what seemed like a marathon style binge. She was visiting six top cities within the space of a week, posting her findings on trend forecasting website 'StyleLens.' She quoted that so far in Paris only two girls had caught her eye, one from Britain (which I am flattered to admit was myself,) the other from Ireland. Some may say a poor reflection of the street style in Paris. However, having been a particularly wet couple of days, feasible explanation for this could be that the French know better than to wander the streets battling against the elements, unlike tourists (par exemple - moi) who have no choice!

So maybe it wasn't the inspirational haven I thought it was going to be, maybe I didnt come away with a memory bank bursting with ideas, but I did get to visit Laduree for afternoon tea, (a childhood dream) and pouring milk from a silver Laduree engraved milk pot whilst eating mini rose petal macaroons was plenty 'Parisian chic' to make the whole trip worth while !

NB. No, the bottom photograph is not me sporting a beret in keeping with the french theme, temperatures were close to freezing, so for practicality reasons it seemed appropriate to accessorize with a wooly hat - much to the amusement of my housemate, who thought I had invested in a beret specifically for the trip. Luckily I decided to leave the necklace of onions at home..

Mary Mary, quite contrary, how does your garden grow?

2009-11-27T05:25:00.001-08:00

It is a rare occasion that you will find me on a night out without having first dipped into my garden of paper and silk flowers and adorned my hair with petals. Amongst all friends I have become known as 'the girl with the flowers in her hair.' Perhaps this signature style was initially to make up for being vertically challenged - attention seeking flowers were the perfect trick to prevent myself from disappearing into the abyss when swallowed by crowded bars or dancefloors.

These days I feel naked without one...

The Messy Perfectionist

2009-11-26T17:58:00.000-08:00

Kate Moss, Mary Kate Olsen and Devon Aoki; style that looks like it couldn't give a damn

A friend once blessed me with the endearing title 'The Messy Perfectionist,' and to this day I have never come across a more fitting self description.
For someone who, on the whole, takes longer than seven minutes to get ready, the end result may not always look shiny and new - with every hair poker straight and items of clothing ironed to within an inch of their life. This is much to my mother's dismay; and in her opinion, the reasoning behind why I have not had a boyfriend for a little while... I know I can count on one hand the number of times I have ever used an iron - one of which includes ironing a blouse for graduation; but quite frankly, if a guy is more interested in how many creases there are in my leather jacket and the fact that I prefer to model my hair on Worsel Gummage as opposed to Jennifer Aniston's barnet - he's perhaps not the Prince Charming I was after.

'Haphazard' could have been my middle name, had my parents not chosen the slightly more feminine 'Kiyomi' (my mother is Japanese, and although she doesnt know it yet, the brains behind the title for this blog) they could have been onto a winner.

I would describe my style as playfully thrown together, fused with touches of pretty and an injection of something you can't quite put your finger on. Perhaps that's where the 'Messy Perfectionist' comes into it - curiosity from passers by posing the question - did she walk through a hedge backwards to leave the house, or was that look created on purpose? I personally like to keep people on their toes, so who knows, maybe some days I do pretend to be Alice in Wonderland and fall through the rabbit hole to get my look for the day. Or maybe, just maybe, I spent hours perfecting the 'Helena Bonham Carter' look, so that every hair was strategically out of place, hemlines substantially frayed and tights sufficiently holed, just how I wanted them to be ;)