The Fashion Tellers Notes

A Snow Day

2012-02-07T11:28:00.000-08:00

The UK was hit with the 'Big Freeze' this weekend!

You could feel it coming during the week that led up to it...you know that sharply, cold chill in the air, your eyes streaming from walking in the cold, hard wind, that eerie yet somewhat beautiful very pale grey sky...

On Sunday morning we woke up to quite a neat, high blanket of it where I live (South East part of the UK), so myself and Steve went for a merry walk in it. It was fun and felt very innocent and childlike skipping in the snow, kicking snow at each other (in a loving way of course), watching the children belt and race down the hills on their sleighs with their dogs running alongside them.

I decided to cosy up in my Laura Ashley tweed coat, Ralph Lauren chunky cable knitted scarf, deep purple Hunter wellies, Topshop Jaime jeans and of course, to top it all off (literally), my fabulous, over-sized Russian style faux fur hat.

I hope you all had fun in the snow if you saw some too!

xoxo

Work hard, Dream hard, Play hard...

2012-02-02T12:03:00.000-08:00

This has been my motto over the past couple of weeks to say the least!

First of all, I would just like to quickly apologise for the lack of blog post material on here. Life has been good lately (very in fact) but extremely busy too and testing at times so blogging very sadly had to take a back seat for a bit (and no one likes the back seat...)

However, I hope to commence blogging as normal but there will be times due to my new job (more on that in a sec) where I might go a few days without blogging as to be honest, that has to come first for me-especially at this time in my life and career!

So apologies done now, lets move to the 'working' section!

For those who follow me on twitter, you may (or may not) know that very recently, my new promotion at work became official! As of today my job title has changed, my pay has changed, I have a company Blackberry (so not as good as my personal iPhone! Will I ever become a BB lover)?, I am getting business cards for my new role printed...

It's all so incredibly exciting and now starting to feel 'real' as I have waited so long for this and now it's here!

As much as I am happy, grateful to my employer and excited about this new change in my life, I won't lie, I am also a teeny bit nervous as now, the pressure is defiantly on! (especially as my boss is off as of next week on maternity leave for six months so it's literally me leading and managing the team)!

However, I will remain to think happy thoughts and positive thoughts and just do what I always do and suggest to you all...

'Keep it real (not reem) and try your best'.

So-the 'play hard' section...

Due to my new opportunity at work and change in income, I can finally start to plan properly moving out towards the end of this year with my darling boyfriend, Steve. We have been looking and getting ideas on what kind of thing we want and can afford and where for nearly a year-however it's all starting to again-seem more 'real' now, as my new job has helped me out with finances and Steve graduates from his Masters in a couple of months and is already job-hunting in the big City-so fingers crossed, we are looking good for moving out this year! :)

Below is a picture of an adorable and very Hansel and Gretel like cottage we found last weekend on rightmove.co.uk (not to live in but how blinking adorable is it)?!

I look forward to continuing our search for our perfect, first home together and can't wait to do more interior hauls and blogposts! <3

As part of my promotion celebrations, my lovely and wonderful best friend Milly invited me over to hers for a girlie night in last Friday and greeted me with the below gifts and arrangement!

Malteaser bunny, a guinea pig card, a pretty business card holder and a glass of rose (the girl knows me VERY well).

'Play Hard' section

Recently I have been even more inspired and excited developing and designing my jewellery dreams and creativity for Sara's-Secret. The support on our twitter and Facebook page has been amazing for me (so I honestly thank each and everyone of you)! Late last week I received the below chains for my SS 12 creations.

Chunky, candy coloured acrylic curb chains!

A below quick concept for a necklace-baby blue and pink metallic equals girly perfection.

I continue to design and research materials and tools for my jewellery and really hope you enjoy the pieces I am working on and selling! Remember, until my website is up and running (which trust me, takes time), you can order through my blog, twitter or Sara's-Secret facebook page

Different coloured crystal pendants coming soon for the 'Antoinette' collection

'Dream' hard section

Finally, the dreaming.

Dreaming is my favourite thing to do...not only does it take you away to a happy, amazing place for a while, it can really inspire you and motivate you to be happy, succeed, take risks, have fun and remember that life is all about dreaming and enjoying every second of it!

I have had a very fashion led dream for at least 4-5 years now. I dream a lot on a variety of subjects but fashion and beauty to me is one big, happy playground and I love nothing more than dreaming of owning the perfect accessory, the perfect shoe, the perfect blush, the perfect dress...(it's a girl's world after all)

One of my big fashion/accessory dreams could be coming true very, very soon...

Yes, I have finally decided now is the right time in my life for many a reason to get my ultimate dream bag-a Balenciaga.

The reason I adore them and crave them so much is the classic, effortless, vintage looking, a touch of rock chic, beautiful style to them and the leather is honestly so soft (even softer than Mulberry and that's saying something)!

I realise these are investment pieces and will be the most expensive bag I have brought to date, however thanks to my 'treat savings' account and a nice Christmas bonus-I have been lucky enough to be able to afford one.

This however is where I need help and I am completing some bag research on this Saturday in London with the lovely Ally...I am not sure if to get the 'City' style or the 'Work' style?

If anyone has either or knows much about them or just has an opinion in general on them, please let me know below in the comments section as it would really help me out and you all know how much I enjoy 'bag talk'! ;)

So-I hope this post kind of heps give an in site into my somewhat crazy, busy but exciting life period at the moment and I'd love to hear if any of you are going through change right now, or living a dream or working towards one or working hard...let's all help inspire one another.

xoxo

Meadham Kirchhoff-SS 12 Collection and Nail Wraps

2012-01-26T11:48:00.000-08:00

Meadham Kirchhoff's SS 12 collection was a real girly, candyfloss looking, sugar high, adorable, pastel revolution, exciting,wacky, retro, kitstch and stand out collection.

Now I know this won't be to everyones taste and I know not all the pieces (especially worn all together) could look a bit 'cutesy wild' for everyday life walking the streets with your Starbucks Skinny Frappuccino in your hand, however, the collection overall really inspires me and gets me excited and dreaming up beautiful, girly, candy style themed pallets for my Spring/Summer 12 wardrobe!

You could easily take pieces of the collection of model's look and interrupt them into your own life and style...

For example-I am aiming to add the below to my style closet;

Meadham Kirchhoff Nail Rocks (coming soon to Topshop)

Meadham Kirchhoff SS 12 Glitter Sprinkled cotton t-shirts (Net-a-Porter)

What do you make of this exciting and somewhat 'out there and doesn't care' designer (the best type around usually...)

Would you want to wear any of their looks head to toe? Do you like the smaller elements?

Would you adorn your nails with sweet playful kittens and a female genital part?!

I'd love to hear...

xoxo

A week in the life of The Fashion Teller

2012-01-22T09:39:00.000-08:00

This week I...

Perfected my interruption of the 'grunge chic' look

Top-All Saints, Faux leather shorts-Topshop, long silver cross necklace-Topman, green stone cross necklace-Lola Rose, Small single skull necklace-Topman, Spiked necklace-Forever 21

Found a new over-sized, chunky, glossy white acrylic curb chain for Sara's-Secret SS12 collection

Tried to minimise the make-up I take out with me by using a Hello Kitty purse as a super mini cosmetics pouch instead! (a challenge but made a massive difference to the weight of my handbag)!

Reached 300 followers on my favourite iPhone app-Instagram (thank you! Find me on there under @fashionteller17)

Styling my two new ASOS sale pieces that arrived in the post this week! Aztec long t-shirt and oversized croc pink laptop bag (which I am using as a clutch).

Received a lovely surprise little treat from my dad (love you daddy)! ;)

Some 'SHALIMAR' perfume from Guerlain. A beautiful, long lasting scent-my new fave! <3

Blogged about my new ridiculously adorable iPhone case from eBay (Rilakumma)

Found this truly fabulous and wonderful picture of my gorgeous and ever stylish mum in the 70's wearing a Biba play suit and over sized sunnies (my heart still breaks she gave all her Biba clothing away as she thought 'it was just old clohtes' when she started having children)! #deprivedofvintagebiba

Treated myself to a new top in the All Saints sale at a bargain price of £19.50! (funnily enough not the top in the picture below, but I did like this one too)!

I hope you all had a wonderful week too!

What did you get up too? I'd love to hear ♥

xoxo

'Rilakkuma..meet iPhone'!-My new phonecase

2012-01-19T12:20:00.000-08:00

And they lived happily ever after....

Okay all joking aside, I am sure most of you know I already own the white Rabito phone case, with it's over sized fluffy white tail and handy big ears to wrap my headphones round!

As much as I love this adorable little case and will still continue to use it (I have seriously never had so many people ask me 'OMG where did you get your phone case?!-Seriously, I have had people ask me at work, on the tube, in Starbucks, in an antique market, the Topshop changing rooms, some locals in Marrakesh...it's endless!) I just knew I had to add to my quirky, cute phone cases with this little fellow!

Rilakkuma iPhone 4 and 4s rubber phone case

How cute is he?!! <3

The funny thing is, I ordered this off eBay and actually picked the beige colour.

This turned up today in the post and is in fact a light yellow colour!

At first I was like 'Ooooooooh'! Then I looked at him more and thought 'you know what? You've passed the test! I like your colour and you are way too sweet to shove back in a stuffed envelope to send back'!

So he's here to stay with Rabito.

What do you all make of these Japanese, sweet and child like phone cases? Do you share the same obsession with them as I do?

Or do you prefer your bling or dare I say it...something more 'normal' and 'subtle'? ;)

I'd love to hear!

xoxo

Take a Tumblr with me

2012-01-16T11:19:00.000-08:00

Yes you read that title correctly...

The Fashion Tellers Notes is now officially on Tumblr!

Tumblr over the past couple of months has been my secret, guilty pleasure.

Whenever I need a quick zap of inspiration;-Tumblr

Whenever I want to see the latest Gossip Girl style;-Tumblr

Whenever I want to see the latest art and street work;-Tumblr

Whenever I want to gaze at beautiful good and dream of pigging out;-Tumblr

Tumblr really is the way forward, due to the masses of work on there you can refer too and source images for projects and inspiration pieces (with the person's approval of course)!

For Sara's-Secret and style in general I find it a great source and could easily waste away many an hour at the weekend with a large tea-cup filled to the brim with my friend 'tea', browsing all the different Tumblrs I adore.

So, please feel free to click here to follow my Tumblr or just search 'The Fashion Tellers Notes'!

I'd also love to hear of any of your Tumblrs or any ones you know you may think I will enjoy?

'I think Blair needs to follow me on Tumblr'!

xoxo

A 'Vuitton' Princess

2012-01-13T11:54:00.000-08:00

When I first landed eyes on the new SS 12 Louis Vuitton ad campaign a week or so ago I thought I had died and gone to fashion, Spring, Candy Land Heaven!

It's so very me that on my personal Facebook page I had friends asking if I had seen it and saying it reminded them of me and my taste.

They couldn't have been more right even if they had tried...

What I absolutely adore about this new campaign is the way it makes me feel when I look at it and the way it makes your imagination just run wild with candy mad dreams!

If you haven't seen the Louis Vuitton SS 12 Fashion Show in Paris too then you are most certainly missing out on one of the most delightful, freshest, prettiest shows to ever come out of Fashion Week!

The collection makes me dream of becoming a sugarplum fairy or a real-life Louis Vuitton Princess (I mean tiaras on the models...COME ON)!-It's what dreams are made off in my opinion.

What are your thoughts on the new minty, sugary fairy-tale inspired collection?

xoxo

Clueless

2012-01-09T12:39:00.000-08:00

Today's outfit was thought of whilst lying in bed at midnight-one am last night/this morning (when I seriously had that 'Sunday Night' syndrome and just could not sleep)!

Nothing is new about this outfit (well, that's a teeny lie-my beautiful new necklace is new) but the Topshop jumper and jeans and the white H&M shirt underneath are defiantly not new.

I thought of this look by lying in bed, feeling wide awake, frustrated I couldn't get to sleep and also 'clueless' (see what I did there)? About what to wear for work this week!

Yes that is a worry of mine sometimes folks, what to wear?!

In my office I am lucky that as long as I am presentable and not coming into the office wearing joggers, a My Little Pony hoodie and Ugg style slippers, I can wear whatever I want.

As lovely as this is as I must admit, I am not a fan of suits or uniforms, this can sometimes be a real pain as I honestly begin to think 'did I wear this top only the other day'? You can become that little bit paranoid that others will start to notice that lilac and embellished sleeved Warehouse top has made more than one appearance this week...

At the same time, I can't and refuse (well actually I don't, my bank balance does) to go out every week or month to shop and buy a whole new outfit just for my work life!

Instead, I embrace mixing and matching and putting new and old pieces together (within reason), to see what 'look' and outfit I myself can put together and not the ad campaign of a well known high-street shop!

Today's outfit was inspired by the much loved 'Cher' in Clueless (a fashion icon for the 90's)-who said plaid would never come back in?!

I use to (and still do), adore watching that movie and would always dream of owning a computerised, magic wardrobe like hers, which paired together her outfit and accessories everyday (why don't they come as standard in all new homes now)?!

I always remembered Cher and her friends wearing a look which was big in the 90's and I must admit, I wore numerous of times from the ages of about 7-9...

'The jumper over the shirt' look.

(Yes I am wearing hardly any make-up in this picture-It was one of those days when I just wasn't botherd with my make-up) SHOCK HORROR.

The casual jumper work over a long, casual un-tucked shirt. How much more 'Cher-tastic' can you get?!

To add a but more colour and excitement to my Monday look, I decided to merchandise it up with my over-sized, ribbon tied 'bib-style' necklace, that a colleague at work kindly gave me last week when she was having a jewellery clear-out at home (a clear-out I personally could never do).

I love the array of coloured gems that twinkle amongst themselves and the way the necklace sits perfectly at the top of my jumper and shirt combo-almost as if it's attached to the knit.

I honestly get a real thrill and joy out of putting together my own outfits and I am constantly trying to reinvent my look and the outfits in my wardrobe. It's not only healthier for your finances but it's really exciting and somewhat rewarding to see what pieces from your wardrobe work together and how mixing and matching really does pay off and not only show a creative flair of yours, but shows you are not afraid to have your own style, mix it up, be savy, actually WEAR things more than once but in different looks and ways!

Also, my brain works with the following formula;

Claire+Bored/Sad/Tired/Stress x inspired+glitter+shoes+clothes+jewellery/Elle= One Fashion Lovin Gal!

Do you enjoy reinventing your wardrobe and current pieces? Or are you more tempted to go out and buy new outfits to wear?

Do you have to think about what you wear on a dialy basis for your job or career path? Or do you have stricker guidelines like a uniform?

xoxo

And Cher!

Sparkles and Beauty-New Pieces from Sara's-Secret!

2012-01-03T12:43:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been really inspired by not just classic styles, colours, materials and shapes but anything which adds a touch of sparkle and glamour to your everyday look!

These pieces below were very recently designed and made by me for my jewellery line 'Sara's-Secret' and my inspiration behind them varies from piece to piece.

I will start off with 'The Camille' necklace...

£28.00

This is a three layered chain piece-starting with quite a bulky chain mixed with pearls, to then a gold heavy curb chain, to then lastly a soft rose pink metallic chain (extremely pretty and I think very unique). The contrast between all colours, styles and sizes of the chain give a fantastic textured and layering piece-which I picture any girl wearing with any outfit from a plain white tee or shirt tucked into skinny jeans with an over sized blazer or cardigan on top, to a girl rushing on her way out to a dinner date wearing the perfect 'LBD' but missing THAT statement piece accessory.

The chains can either lie next to each other perfectly or a bit in twined or mixed up (the way I prefer to wear it).

Next up, you need a beautiful, dainty but extraordinary bracelet to match your 'Camille' necklace.

This is where we meet 'The Juliet Drop'...

£20.00

This bracelet features the same rose pink chain as the 'Camille' necklace and is this time paired together with a gold plated curb chain with a toggle fastening. This bracelet also displays a beautiful and genuine Swarovski crystal, which is a tear-drop cut and is a stunning amber, gold and bronze toned crystal.

Last but certainly not least, the ULTIMATE cocktail, bling, over sized sparkle of delight!

'The Aurora Ring'

£25.00

A genuine, over sized Swarovski crystal which shines from clear, to pink, to purple, to green, to grey, to yellow...it really is magical and one of the pieces I have had the most comments on and order requests for when I am out and about!

The ring is caged in a silver wire and the wire and then sits on a silver plated ring base. I can also make these rings without the wire caging and that will be £22.00

All pieces are exclusively available from my blog here and also my Facebook page for Sara's-Secret, which you can find here.

These are the two best places to visit for anything Sara's-Secret related until my official website for it is up and running!

All items are handmade and made to order by me, so please bear in mind I will not have these ready and shipped out in two days.

If you are interested in any of the above, please let me know by either leaving a comment below, tweeting Sara's-Secret official twitter page or emailing sarassecretjewellery@gmail.com

Postage for UK and Ireland is £3.00 recorded

If you live elsewhere, please let me know and I can get postage quotes for you :)

***Thanks so much for your love and support and sparkles to you all!***

xoxo

2011 and Me-2012 and Me

2012-01-01T09:27:00.000-08:00

I am writing this while tucked up in my bed, still in my dog print PJ's, and I have just finished my third cup of tea for the day...

'Happy New Year'!

New Years Day-A time for relaxing, recovering, being lazy, feeling ever so slightly depressed that the Festive Season is done and wrapped up for another year...

However, New Year also means a time to look back and reflect on the past year and what it has taught us and brought us.

2011 wasn't my best year if I am bring honest. My health was not good last year at all (and still isn't 100% right)-Thank God nothing sinister, but still, it left me feeling weak, poorly, down, miserable, tired, in pain...not really what anyone wants.

2011 also saw members of my close family being ill, having operations, accidents, being in plaster...it was eventful to say the least! Luckily, most of the things are now on a slow yet positive mend-so I am hoping and praying that 2012 for me and my family is a much healthier and safer year!

When looking back at last year, I also just felt for more personal reasons and relating to goals, 'it wasn't my year'. Now this wasn't for not trying, but obviously somethings are completely out of my hands, so things I were hoping would happen last year didn't due to various different reasons.

As much as this can get you down at times, I have learnt that there is no point dwelling on the past or what could or should have been. 2012 is going to be the year where I put 'me' first.

Not in a selfish way, but for those who know me very well, one of my biggest issues is I worry too much about others and what others may think, more than worrying and looking after myself.

So this year I plan to take more time to think about the things I want to do and achieve, which then I think will not only help myself out and make me happy but for those around me also.

2011 was a great year though for me and my blog and channel. I still after two years of blogging get so excited when I see comments posted on my blog posts or videos and I love nothing more than interacting with you all either via my blog, channel or on twitter or Facebook! Through these networks, I have met and got speaking to some amazing people who I now feel I can chat away very easily too and have a laugh with, even though I have sadly not yet met some of them!

So before I list some of my resolutions to you below, I would like to say this...

I want to thank each and everyone of you for the love, support, laughter, chatter and everything else in between for me, my blog, my channel and my very exciting project 'Sara's-Secret'.

Without you all it's cheesy but true-me and my little blog wouldn't be here today and it means the world to me that any of you take the time to look through and read what it is I have to say (as let's face it, there are A LOT of people out there who have something to say)!-So for any of you to take the time to listen to what I have to say is very flattering and means a great deal to me and always will!

Now, for Claire's Resolutions...

1)-To follow my heart more and listen to what it wants me to do (touching on what I said earlier about not worrying what others may think all the time)

2)-To become healthier and fitter (not only to look good in my Topshop skinny Jaime jeans-but to have the added health benefit and energy I felt I was lacking at points in 2011)

3)-To carry on saving the pennies (me and my boyfriend are planning to move out by the Summer of this year, which is SO exciting!! So I need to continue saving monthly as I currently do and try not get too tempted to splurge on a Balenciaga or Chanel bag)!

4)-To develop my current work skills (At the end of Feb, I am embarking on a new challenge at work as I have been offered a promotion to be the department manager whilst my manager is on Maternity Leave. This excites me and defiantly motives me but it's also slightly nerve-wracking I won't lie! However, I need to remember how hard I have worked for this and the skills I have so far, bring them to the table and further them on this new learning process I am about to begin...)

5)-To progress and really develop my jewellery line and business 'Sara's-Secret' (I already put as much time, money and energy as I can into this but I know this year to take it to the next level, I really need to find more time, more money and more effort! This isn't something that worries or scares me-this is something which really excites me, inspires me and makes me happy, so hopefully it's onwards and upwards with this goal)!

6)-To Give something Back (me and my family have always given lots to charity in the forms of money, unwanted clothing and house goods...these things all count and make a huge difference, but this year as well as continuing what I already do, I would like to actually find some time for ME personally to give back. This means maybe me getting involved in a fun run, a charity event, a sponsorship, visiting people who need more help and time than I do..It's carrying out acts and gifts of kindness like the above which not only help the person or people in need, but help you to grow and become a better person).

(Now onto the more 'not so serious but so much fun' resolutions)! ;)

7)-To get into a really good and helpful skincare routine (I have always been into healthy skin and making sure my skin looks it's best, but since getting into blogging I have become much more aware of other people's skincare regimes and some quite honestly put me to shame! Seeing as I got the pink Clarasonic Mia as a gift from the boyfriend as one of my Christmas presents, I now feel it's the perfect time to try out new products and a new system which hopefully works for me and my dry skin)!

8)-To maintain my hair and keep experimenting (Again, I have always been into hair but since colouring it red, I now for some reason feel really experimental with it and the styles, tools and products I am using to help me mange but also enjoy my hair. My two favourite hair tools at the moment are two Babyliss products-the 'Big Hair' and the 'Wave Envy' styler. Both are so easy to use and reviews on both will be coming soon either on here or my channel, so watch out for that)!

9)-To develop my interest and love for Photography (My main Christmas present from my parents this year was the new Nikon D3100 SLR Camera and boy do I love it! I have always admired photographers and appreciated their work and it's something I have always wanted to learn about but never quite found the time or the reason why I should get into it. Now, there shouldn't have to be a reason you do! It should be something you love and generally want to invest time and money learning about-however since blogging and photographing my own jewellery for Sara's-Secret and now I have my swanky new camera-this year seems the perfect time to learn about photography more and how to use my SLR to it's full potential).

10)-To continue appreciating, adoring and experimenting with FASHION (Everyone knows fashion is my number 1 love and I am looking forward to seeing how the trends and my own personal style evolves over 2012. At the moment, it's early days but I am already majorly watching, reading and influenced by Swedish style and constantly check on Elin Klings blog for inspiration).

11)-To experiment with more daring lipstick colours (I am wishing for bold, bold reds, hot bright pinks, bright oranges and who knows what else...)

12)-Lastly and simply, to own a pair of Jeffrey Campbell Lita Boots! (Prefedely the black ones with spikes which you can see here)

Here's hoping that not only my resolutions and dreams above but yours too, get ticked off happily and successfully this year!

xoxo

What I got for Christmas!

2011-12-28T12:11:00.000-08:00

I can't quite believe Christmas has now been and gone for another year!

I do have a bit of the 'After Christmas Blues', I won't lie.

However, I did have the best Christmas and was extremely lucky with what gifts were given to me, which I am so, so thankful for as always!

I adored all my gifts and was excited about each one, but the two presents that defiantly stood out to me were the following;

Nikon D3100 SLR Camera (my first ever SLR and an amazing gift from my wonderful parents)

Clarasonic Mia in Pink (something that has been on my wish list for ages now and the boy did me proud remembering this)!

As it was requested through my You Tube page and on twitter that I did a video showing my Christmas presents, I thought I would just post the video on my here or you to watch instead of taking photographs also (however, I have been very happy snappy with the new SLR) ;)

I hope you all had a magical and lovely Christmas with your loved ones xoxo

'Merry Christmas to all-And to all a Good Night'!

2011-12-24T14:46:00.000-08:00

********

So the magical moment of Christmas Eve night is now with us!

Today was a day filled with my mum and sister baking and icing cakes (that Kitchen Aid has worked so hard this past week)!-presents are wrapped and sat excitedly under the tree just waiting to be unwrapped! The fire is roaring, three Christmas films have been watched and the grand dining room table is all set up and ready for it's feast and guests tomorrow.

Sadly though, its does seem to be a Christmas tradition for me now that I tend to annoyingly fall ill upon this Festive Season (cries).

I am currently nursing a cold and I know they are obviously common this time of year (guess that's where the 'common cold' got it's name from).

I am hoping I am on much better form tomorrow as there is nothing I love more than Christmas! The loved ones, the food, the drink, the music, the decorations, the atmosphere, the relaxing, the silly but hilarious party games, the telly, the laughter...

So I would just like to wish all of you wonderful people a truly wonderful and magical Christmas and thank you all from the bottom of my heart for the love and support you have given me this year, this blog, my channel and Sara's-Secret (my jewellery line). You are all amazing and deserve everything Santa brings you! ;)

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

xoxo

'It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas'...

2011-12-12T13:20:00.000-08:00

Well, it certainly is in my lovely home ;)

Ever since I was a small child, I have always been the most excited when the decoration boxes appeared from the loft (attic to some of you)-and you could already smell the pine cones scent which surprisingly had still clung on to the decorations from the year before...

The appearance of gold sparkle, ruby red coloured balls, gingerbread man, Santa (well clearly not the man himself but you know what I mean..)-straight away-'Christmas is in the Air'!

What I love most the decoration side of things, is not only the beauty, character and festive joy they bring, but also the sometimes history and personal story between you and them.

For instance, we stock up on new pieces every year, just because we are quite 'big' on Christmas in my house. Seriously though, my dad is the worst (but amazing)! He is honestly like a big kid when it comes to this particular Holiday Season. He loves putting all the lights up (inside the house and outside)-this year he got a a rather large reindeer who lights up (a 'classy one' he would say), but do you know what? It really does finish the look of the house from the outside, sitting proudly and quite majestically in our arch window to the front of the house.

However we do have some decorations that I remember from being a very young child. They still look pristine and sit proudly around our house to this day, due to a lot of TLC in storage.

When my mum does our tree, she does it with such pride and it always looks 'perfect'.

For the past three or four years, the general 'theme' of the tree has been gold with hints of red. Whilst this looked stunning and very warmly and welcoming, this year we have mixed things up and the theme of the tree (the main tree in the living room, the other two trees have a different theme), is more crafty, homely and looks like each piece was handmade by us (sadly we aren't that gifted with carving Gingerbread Men toys for the tree)...

Mum has even put real candy-canes on the tree this year! A very pretty and yummy treat to admire.

The other two trees are more royal, gem like colours (the one in our dining room is all gold with a Cinderella gold slipper on), the other in our conservatory is greens, golds, purples and deep, dark fuchsia pinks.

The beauty of it is, each tree tells it's own story and sets off the festive mood in each room beautifully.

Other Christmasy decoration delights we are enjoying are...

Christmas bunting (gingerbread men and Christmas trees linking like old friends)!

Giant crystal storage pots (filled with yummy, rich scented chocolates and other delights)

The other new reindeer addition to our come 'Rupurt' (gold and lit up sitting comfortably near our fireplace)

Sparkling fairy lights everywhere

Rich and deep green garlands draping our stairs (filled with red tasselled baubles and faux red berries)

Snowflake decals on the windows and French Doors

Yankee Candles in the scents 'Christmas Cupcake', 'Christmas Eve' and 'Sparkling Cinnonom'

I hope you enjoyed me sharing my Christmas decorations and themes with you from my own humble abode

and I would love to hear what your tree or house looks like this year! What are your favourite decorations or memories of bringing Christmas into your home?

xoxo

Bambi

2011-12-06T12:09:00.000-08:00

Sunday just gone was one of those blissful, wonderful, easy days.

It stated with me waking up and not wanting to leave the cosiness and warmth of my bed and plushy pillows and duvet. Instead, I grabbed the iPad and started catching up on the following blogs thanks to the best reading media app 'Flipboard' (post on that coming soon)...

Absolutely Beautiful Things

Once I'd caught up with their latest posts, I decided it was time to venture out of my bed (painful yes), but I had a great day ahead of me so the pain wasn't too bad ;)

The boyfriend came and picked me up 'your carriage awaits he joked' (a Mercedes A-Class. Lovely but not quite the Fairy Tale Pumpkin one)!

We started the day doing what I love doing best on a Sunday when I decide to venture out the house-Antique shopping.

If you have read my blog and followed me on twitter for quite some time now, you will know how much I love and how often I spend antique shopping in my spare time. I have always been interested in antiques (must have been years ago when the Antiques Road Show was on the telly in our house-it still is to this day). To me there is nothing more exciting and satisfying than having a good 'haul' of antiques and thrift shopping, to find that one item which you just know you can welcome into your life or home and help bring it back to life so to speak! I also like many adore the story behind a piece and trust me, if you buy a genuine antique (look for markings and certain dates and stamping details) and you purchase the items from an official Antique Dealership, you should most of the time be able to get a story (which I think helps make the piece much more special and personal).

We drove off to Battlesbridge Antique Centre which is literally a five minutes drive from my house. Myself and my family have been going there for years, and I do think it does help to visit a place often enough, to gain an understanding on good days and times to go (when they receive in new items. New meaning new to the centre, not non-antique items)! I have also found myself making contacts and friendships down there with sellers and traders which also really helps find you a future gem!

On this Sunday in particualr, I was more than delighted to find and fell completely head over heels for this adorable little fellow!

He is from the swinging 60's period and is in near perfect condition (very small markings to underneath) and is a piece I have been dreaming of for quite some time now! (My best friend Milly will remember the conversation I had with her about my search for an 'antique doe-eyed deer' ornament).

He is the perfect addiction to my somewhat random yet very pretty and delightful, storytelling and utterly girly dressing table in my bedroom.

Seeing as I am discussing a lazy Sunday and other mystical, pretty finds and purchases-I should really mention my oversized Unicorn mug from Urban Outfitters.

This was a purchase made when they had 20% online about a week ago. I just could not turn down a giant Unicorn mug! Perfect for those cold Winter Nights and lazy Sundays with Hot Chocolate filled right to the brim inside.

Whilist rearranging my dresser (another favourite Sunday pastime), I also spotted that my new ICE Watch, matches my favourite coloured Laduree Box perfectly (the simple things make me smile)!

Speaking of Unicorns, I also re-discovered my love for Lime Crime's 'Countnessa Fluorescent' opaque pink lipstick. The bright purple and holographic Unicorn packaging is always a real treat to pull out of your make-up bag and this is one show-stopping shade! Perfect for the office party!

All in all, all these items have helped add some real personitaly to my dresser and really help express certain loves of mine and parts of my personsality.

What are your favourite things to do on a Sunday?

Are you a Sunday explorer and like to be out and about? Or do you prefer a cosy, somewhat lazy day in-by the fire maybe snuggled up with a good book or film to watch?

I'd love to know...

xoxo

The Forgotten Skulls

2011-12-04T09:46:00.000-08:00

This piece is so me!

Skulls are my number one favourite design for anything jewellery, clothing or accessories related.

I think my love for McQueen as a young teenager has since helped fuel this obsession.

What I like about the skull 'look', is the fact that it can add some attitude, a tough edge and a nod to the Gothic trend all in one. I have worn this necklace already with a cream lace dress (super fresh and girly) and it just helped keep my look on the right side of being girly and not TOO girly (if you get what I mean)?!

This piece is very rustic and can be worn alone or layered with gold or brass and black chains to really create some impact to an outfit.

This necklace is now going to be happily sitting on my neck for the next few weeks! Worn alone, with layered chains and the 'Polo Gaguge' necklace, with long, loose sitting pearls...

The bottom right-hand picture is it casually clung over my Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM bag. I decided this would actually look gorgeous as a bag charm so I can offer those in the 'Forgotten Skulls' Design too if you wish!

Necklace-£12.00 (excluding shipping)

Bag charm-£10.00 (excluding shipping)

These may be a limited edition piece-so if you would like one, please leave a comment below to let me know or feel free to email me at sarassecretjewellery@gmail.com

What do you think of skull pieces? Are they too 'scary' for you and your wardrobe or a major edition to it like mine?

xoxo

River Island: Postcards from the Past...The 'Hustle' Collection

2011-12-02T10:47:00.000-08:00

When I was contacted by River Island inviting me to take part in their 'Postcards from the Past' competition, inspired by the 'Hustle' collection, I was more than happy and a little bit too excited to take part! ;)

They kindly sent me a list of some items from the collection I could pick from and even though the choice got me torn between two gorgeous items, I decided to review and talk about the beautiful, insanely high, 'WOWSER'statement wedges below...

'Gold Peeps Toe Wedges'

These wedges have a fierce 15cm heel! However, the mega platform on them does help keep you steady on your feet and not looking like Bambi taking his first steps!

These are obviously perfect for the Christmas Party Season which is finally here (hooray)!-But, I am also determined to prove to you these CAN be 'dressed down' (blog post on this coming soon...)

You could also be in with a chance of owning these 'bad gals' (they are just too pretty to say 'bad boys')-by visiting the River Island Facebook Page and entering their competition, where you could be in with a chance of winning 9 items from the Hustle Collection!

What are the highest heels you own?

Would you be brave enough to totter around in these on a Festive night out?

xoxo

My new Collection for Sara's-Secret

2011-11-27T13:31:00.000-08:00

I have been feeling a little anxious yet extremely excited about sharing this post with you all!

As I am sure you all know by now (well, if you have been a reader of my blog for quite a while)-I have a jewelery line which goes by the name 'Sara's-Secret'.

Lately I posted how I feel my style is changing with my designs and my inspirations and materials I am using are a bit more mature, classy, unique, eye-catching and very much statement yet versitile pieces.

I want to design and make items that any girl/woman would love wearing during the day and in the evening. I don't want my pieces just to be saved for a 'speacil occassion' (even though they would enjoy being part of one)-I want them to be statement yet classic pieces you could just throw on over an everyday tee or a beautiful evenning dress, to help establish and finish off your overall look for that day, time and mood.

Below are all one-off items (I have marked one which isn't for sell yet as I love it so much it is my own for me to keep, but I can make similar very easily for you).

My pieces are made to order, because as you can imagine, these things take time and it's only little old me making them currently. If you see an item below and find it has already sold, please still leave a comment or email me as I can make more!

Each item comes gift-wrapped and postage for each item is the folliwng;

UK and Ireland-£2.00

Worldwide-£5.00

If you are interested in a piece listed below, please leave or comment below or email me at fashionteller@hotmail.co.uk as soon as possible as once these are gone, they have gone until I next get round to making more later over the next couple of weeks.

I also see these as an experiment to gage your thoughts and reactions to them to see if it's worth me making more in the below styles (I hope so as I want you to like them and enjoy wearing/owning them)?!

They will make perfect treats for yourself and your wardrobe, but also for Christmas presents I think! :)

The 'Polo Gague' necklace

(Silver and Gold mix)-£22.00

The 'Polo Gague' necklace

(Silver mix only) £20.00

The 'Ice Queen' necklace (my own to keep-can me made to order similar)! £45.00

The 'Candy Bauble Pearl' necklace-£25.00

The 'Cascading Chandelier' necklace-£18.00

The 'Brushed Rope' necklace-£20.00

The 'Kingdom of Pearls' necklace-£30.00

Please note most of these are heavy chains, they are all top quality and some (especially featuring pearls and stones)-are very detailed and intricate (just in case people want to know how I am pricing these up) ;)

I really hope you enjoy these pieces and you enjoy what I have created so far...I look forward to sharing more with you and launching my shop in early 2012!

xoxo

Clutch Control

2011-11-20T10:19:00.000-08:00

We all know I love bags.

We all know I believe there is never such a thing as 'too many bags'.

Therefore, please let me introduce you to two of my new favourite clutch bags below...

Zara Gold Sequin Clutch

(Perfect for the party season and will be seen a lot here on my blog! Great for a daytime or evening look and another plus is, it really reminds me of something Mulberry would create)!

Luna Wong 'Envie' Envelope leather clutch

(A beautiful orange with luxurious beige suede lining. Perfect for this Season but to also carry you through to SS/12. Soft, buttery textured leather and a very chic and polished bag)!

For me, clutch bags are something I have always admired from afar in magazines, the catwalk, people wearing them in the street and one the tube, behind shop windows...but I have only ever really owned one previous to these two (a nice oversized envelope marble effect 'pleather' cheapie from H&M-Adore it). I have always found them amazingly chic and ladylike, but sometimes a bit of a nuisance as well! I am one of those girls that carries a lot with me (to be fair, probably TOO much)-so clutches don't fit all my belongings in, or they bulge out and overspill...(so not chic or cool)-however these two are great sizes, comfortable and easy to hold, look amazing but also give me the room to fit my 'things' in! I also think I need to learn not to take everything out with me all at once. I mean, do I really need to take my Tangle Teezer out with me when I have a handbag sized brush already?!

I can't wait to use both these clutch bags for work, brunches, dinner and cocktails and of course those Christmas parties :)

What do you make of clutch bags?

Do you have many? If so, do you find them useful and stylish? On what occasions do you use them?

xoxo

Sequins exploded all over my house!

2011-11-16T11:35:00.000-08:00

When I stumbled across the artist who came up and created the below pieces, I just knew I had to share her work with you!

For any of you who know me and have been following my blog for a long time now, you will know as well as the fashion and beauty world, I have a strong connection and love for all things architecture and interiors too. They surround us everyday and sometimes I believe we are just too busy and on 'the go' all the time, that we actually forget to open our eyes and look around us and take in the amazing surroundings we can be a part of and we live in!

The artist Theresa Himmer has found a way to capture the imagination of passers by, by creating these stunning and very unusual dripping streaks and splats of sequin graffiti art work, on otherwise what appear to be dull, basic, everyday buildings (well not anymore)!

Imagine walking past one of these on a beautiful bright, sunny Autumns day and looking up and almost being blinded by the bright glittering effect of sequins dripping off a somewhat plain and standard building. Or perhaps on a cold, grey and wet day-seeing these would defiantly make me stand up and take notice and forget about the bad weather for a little while!

I think it's a fantastic concept and proves the art world and the architectural world, can find harmony together and pass that on into all our lives.

What do you think of these buildings and the artist?

Would you like your house covered in sequins?

Sign me up!

xoxo

There are no words for these Boots...

2011-11-14T11:38:00.000-08:00

I will take one in each pair-size 5 please!

Except....WOW!!!!!

I am sure by now (unless you have been hiding under an Anti-Fashion Rock)-that most of you would have seen/heard of these bad boy boots above, from the amazing Jeffrey Campbell. The 'Lita'.

Most fashion bloggers and muses you see wearing these now, from fashion editorials to daily browsing on LookBook (my favourite past time hobby).

As I mentioned in a tweet the other day-the boyfriend has asked me to write my ultimate Christmas Wish List (okay, okay-so I couldn't add a Chanel Jumbo Flap yet)-but these are defiantly on that 'Wish List'.

Either pair I would be more than delighted to prance around in and wear on an given day, totally lovin!

Yes some people might think they are a bit too 'out there' and 'crazy' but that's me ;)

What pair would you go for out of two above?

Do you even like them? If yes, why (and the same question to if you don't like them).

I can't wait to hear and join the shoe debate...(the best kind of debate always).

Love and All That...

Finding the Treasure in TK Maxx!

2011-11-10T11:17:00.000-08:00

TK Maxx was always a bit of an 'odd' place to me when I was in my teens.

I never really understood what it was or what it was meant to offer to it's customers

Now however, I ♥ the place and totally get it's way of thinking! ;)

I travel all over of the country for my job, so I have had the pleasure to visit quite a few different TK Maxx's! I love the branch in Windsor and the one in Liverpool best so far! The one in Liverpool especially was huge and filled with some fab buys! (As you will soon see below...)

I think the secret to finding your treasure in TK Maxx, is to be patient, allow enough time to be in there to explore (don't try when you have only 10 minutes left of your lunch break-Trust me)-And to just keep your eyes pealed and your hands free (use a handbag you can fling over your shoulder-you never know when you need free hands to quickly grab that 'treasure' before someone one gets to it)!

In the Windsor branch-I picked up some gorgeous, classic, current season black over-sized Armani sunglasses (sorry-should have taken a picture of them really for this post...) They came in perfect condition with the official Armani hard case and cleaning cloth to protect them also. I paid £30 instead of £180!!

That was a good day for finding treasure...

An even better day was when I was paying a little business trip to the fabulous city of Liverpool, where I really made the most of my treasure hunt!

Can you believe I picked up these BARGIN items from there?!...(aside from the leopard print gloves-more on them in a moment)!

First up is my favourite purchase! This current season (I saw them in Selfridges also)-Tortoiseshell Ray Ban Avaitor sunglasses!

They came in the classic, retro style leather Ray Ban case and I could not be more happy with this purchase! You can't help but feel a little 'cool' wearing these Bans!

The best part was instead of being £120, they were £55!!!

Next up are some grey knit Michael Kors arm/hand warmers with silver studded detail.

I first picked these up not even realising they were designer-I purely love the stud detailing and how soft they feel. When I then noticed they were by Michael Kors and only £15-I had a massive grin on my face and swiped them up quickly!

They are so easy to wear and perfect for this unpredictable and strangely mild weather at the moment. I particularly enjoy wearing them with my black Zara Biker Jacket (they are the perfect accessory)!

Last but certinaly not least are a gorgeous and luxurious pair of leather gloves from the famous and very classic British brand 'Dents'. Dents are known for their beautifully cut gloves, their luxury buttery soft leather and delicate detailing. They are also known to be worn by the Royals (I can't be going wrong then)!

Again, before I realised these were from such a big brand, I was purely drawn too them because of the gorgeous faux pony skin , leopard print detailing with a pretty bow on top.

The underneath of them are plain black leather and the inside of them are lined with black silk and are incredibly soft to wear.

They are the kind of gloves that feel very chic and lady-like and transforms the way my outfit looks when worn with my long brown tweed coat. The contrast between the tweed and leopard is so much fun to wear!

As you can see from the labels below-these were priced originally at £81.00 but I snapped them up from TK Maxx for £24.99, which I think for a well known and established brand and for a leather glove with this detailing is a fab price!

Have you ever picked up an amazing and exciting bargin in TK Maxx?

If so-what was it and was it a huge saving?

Also-feel free to let me know what TK Maxx's you recommend-I can try and check them out on my travels!

xoxo

I'm RED-dy for more!

2011-11-06T13:41:00.000-08:00

So first of all, apologies for the lack of blog posts this week. I haven't been feeling that great but have also been concentrating on my jewelery line 'Sara's-Secret' and I am so excited by the pieces I have designed and developed so far! The next step is to photograph them all and upload them to my brand new website to showcase to you all! Here's hoping you like them?!

Anyways, this post is sharing with you the hair transformation I had yesterday at the hairdressers.

Yesterday was the perfect girly pamper day for me (which rarely happens at the moment). Firstly, I was up bright and early to get my nails done. Went for a classic 'French Mani'-clean and chic.

I then was met by my boyfriend and he dropped me off at the hairdressers while he mooched off around the shops and then settled in Starbucks with one of 'those red cups' waiting for me to re-appear...Red.

I knew from a few days prior to going to the salon that I wanted to turn RED! (if you follow me on twitter you would have seen some pics I posted on red hair asking your opinions-thanks for those who let me know what they thought)!

I have always been pretty 'safe' with my hair-apart from when I was sixteen and had purple streaks in my then natural dark black brown colour so I am defiantly ready to experiment and add some personality to my hair!

So here is how I started-my locks coated in fiery, bright red dye!

I am fully aware that red is high maintenance and harder to keep the colour locked in as appose to brown or blonde hair. However, one advantage I do have my hairdresser said is that because I haven't had any dye in my hair for nearly 18months now and I am dark naturally, it will hold better.

Also, if you have red in your hair (and it's not natural)-you shouldn't wash the hair everyday as that can make it fade quicker. I never did wash my hair everyday-I tend too every two days, otherwise my hair actually becomes more limp and dull looking.

She also advised me (and do did some fellow red heads I know)-to try the John Frieda range below, just to help keep the colour as radiant and as nourished as possible.

So I paid a visit to Boots after my appointment and got the John Frieda 'Radiant Red' shampoo and conditioner. While I was there, I also picked up a cheapy and small 'Clairol' colour gloss in red, which is a treatment for coloured hair you apply twice a week to help secure the dye more.

I look forward to playing with this new 'do' and have already enjoyed some of the new make-up looks I have already played with this weekend (green eyeshadow is now my new favourite)!

I will of course keep you all updated with how the products work above and how I enjoy my new red colouring and maybe give them a review for you (if you are interested, please let me know) :)

My hairdresser has been a firm favourite of mine for over 10 years now (she also does my mum's and sister's hair too)-so we are quite close to her now and she is always doing us lovely favours and gestures...

So this weekend she is going to re-top up the colour to keep it looking as bright and as radiant as possible for free of charge! (How amazing and sweet is that)?!

She did warn me once I turned red, I wouldn't want to go back and man is she RIGHT!!!

I could almost be tempted to keep going as red as this famous lady below...

(found on lucyboots blog)-you need to check her out! <3

Have any of you ever turned red or are thinking of it? Maybe not even red, you might fancy something more 'out there' like blue or candy floss pink?

P.S-I'd so try candyfloss pink if I had the right skin tone for it but for now, I am loving my new red locks!

xoxo

Pretty Clutter

2011-10-31T13:23:00.000-07:00

It might sound crazy to some (but not to others)-but it does put a :) on my face then I have some pretty, cute items grouped together on my dressing table for me to use or be inspired by.

Emma Bridgewater Diary

L'OCCITANE Limited Edition Hand Cream (free with the latest Marie Claire)

Benefit 'Watts Up'

Barry M 'Hexograms'-244 Nail Varnish

'Matin Glacial' necklace-Sara's Secret

Toy Watch

Little doll (nods it's head 'yes' or 'no' with what ever you ask it)-gift from Japan

(Background pieces-Antique Milk Glass vases, Laduree box)

The Emma Bridgewater Notepad is super lux and the cover has a velvet texture and makes writing my daily notes and inspirations so much more glamours.

My new Toy watch was a naughty little purchase from Bicester Village in Oxford (a shoppers dream)-it is a beautiful light minty green or sea foam green colour and actually glows in the dark! It's the perfect pastel, fresh colour for these now dark Winter days.

Watts Up by Benefit is my new favourite high-lighter and my cheeks and brow bone have the prettiest, most flattering shimmer to them after I have applied this. The packaging and name with the light bulbs is too cute!

This Barry M nail polish is an old favourite of mine that I have had a while now, but as we approach the Fireworks season and Bon Fire Night, it helps get me in the mood for all things 'sparkle' this coming weekend.

The 'Matin Glacial' necklace is something I designed and made myself for my jewellery line Sara's-Secret this past weekend. Again, I adore it's pastel, fresh, cool tone colours and wore it today with a white layered H&M dress to work and had at least ten lovely people compliment me on it. If this is a piece you are interested in for yourself or maybe a present for someone-please feel free to leave me a comment below or email me at fashionteller@hotmail.co.uk It's made up of semi precious stones and glass beads and comes with a dust bag to keep it protected and beautiful.

My little Japanese doll is so adorable and was brought for me a few years ago now by a family member on their travels to Japan. You are meant to hold her in the palm of your hand, ask her a question and then she either shakes her head to a 'no' or nods her head for a 'yes'. Highly unpredictable but so lovable!

Lastly is the L'OCCITANE' hand cream which Marie Claire are giving away with their latest issue (thanks guys)!-it smells divine, I love it's travel friendly size and the limited edition packaging is oh so chic looking!

What items do you collect, you or display on a daily basis which bring a :) to your face?

Let's talk PRETTY!

xoxo

Introducing the 'Matin Glacial' piece from Sara's Secret

2011-10-30T10:40:00.000-07:00

For any of you who have been following my blog for a while now, you will know I design and make jewellery in my spare time.

My jewellery line 'SARA'S SECRET' as of recent has been quite quiet-mainly due to work commitments but also, I felt I needed to take some time away from it, to actually think about what it was I wanted to create for people to wear and the feelings I wanted people to feel when wearing my pieces.

My original designs which some of you were lovely enough to buy and wear were more 'vintage' influenced and a lot of the pieces were actually one-off, vintage items.

As much as I still adore vintage, I did start to think that is wasn't actually something I wanted to do for my line.

I wanted to create beautiful, classic and timeless more mature pieces but with a twist too and with a story behind each piece.

I wanted to create something you'd wear and just feel luxurious and glamours wearing it but not feel guilty spending hundreds on a piece! I want people to be able to wear my pieces for an 'anytime' look. To wear during the day with a plain, classic tshirt/shirt and jeans-or with a beautiful dress to take you into a magical evening!

This is a sneak peek for you on one of my latest pieces I have been working on...

'Matin Glacial'

(translates to 'Frosty Morning' French-English)

The reason I named this piece 'Matin Glacial' is that the colours and textures of the glass and Crystal beads remind me of a beautiful, frosty, cold Winter's morning. I simply translated it in French, as it's a beautiful language and makes every word sound romantic and intriguing-everything I want this piece to be.

All my pieces are made to order and will now be delivered in dust bags to protect your items.

If you are interested in this piece above for yourself or maybe for a Christmas gift for a loved one, please leave me a comment below or email me fashionteller@hotmail.co.uk as these stones are limited edition!!

Just an as FYI...

SARAS SECRET has a website, hopefully launching at the beginning of next month, if not Jan 2012.

In the mean time, I will update pieces here on my blog for you all to see and then purchase if you would like.

Thanks again so much for all your continued support and love for my jewellery and Sara's Secret! It means so much to me <3 xoxo

There's a Ghost in my Room...

2011-10-27T11:37:00.000-07:00

Luckily not a 'bump in the night' ghost or a freaky, scary looking ghoulish character...!

Instead, I mean a chic, friendly, beautiful ghost who stylishly goes by the name 'Louis'.

Yes, the 'Louis Ghost Chair' by the furniture designer (genius) 'Philippe Starck' for Kartell, is probably my favourite piece of furniture I have ever brought.

It is simple yet beautiful and sits so effortlessly in a room.

I also love how versatile this piece is and the fact it could suit pretty much any room you wanted to place it in.

Mine acts as my 'reading/blogging' chair.

I have a slight OCD you see of people (including myself) sitting on my bed....

It's only because I arrange my decorative throw and pillows in a certain way and on no account can I have creases in my duvet cover!

(OCD....Please tell me their are others out there like me)?!

So this chair acts as the perfect partner in crime when it comes to me just wanting to sit near my window, reading my Kindle of flicking through the latest issue of Marie Claire or I can turn it around so it's facing my dresser and happily sit and type away on my laptop in comfort and happiness.

This collection comes in a range of colours (clear, matte black, matte white, orange, blue...etc etc).

I opted for the clear 'original' one, as it's perfect for my room which is full of colour but also gives me the flexibility to use it in any room I wish when I get my own place.

For those of you who follow my interior blog here (I won't lie, that blog has kind of dropped off the radar and I think I will just combine my love for interiors on this blog instead)-you would have seen a post on these chairs but to those who haven't, please enjoy my pictures below and some pictures I found of inspiration on how you could position these chairs and in the different surroundings...

Even Serena and Blair from Gossip Girl like them!

I also really love the limited edition 'Barbie' ones Kartell sold to celebrate Barbie's 50th Anniversary!

Do any of you own one of these chairs? If not, would you like to own one? What colour would you get and for what rooms?

xoxo

Enrapture-Extremity Heated Rollers Review

2011-10-25T13:16:00.000-07:00

As you will know if you are a regular reader of my blog, it's not often I get sent items or products to review. I think the main reason being, my blog is defiantly more fashion and lifestyle focused, not so much beauty-so I guess it's harder to find things to send a blogger like myself.

However, I also believe that just because your a blogger and might get sent a lot of free goodies to play with and then review-it doesn't mean you NEED to blog about them or promote a company/brand to your readers, which you might not think are worthwhile.

In the past, I have been approached by some PR firms and companies directly-wanting to send me products and get a mention on my blog, but I have pretty much always said 'no'-as I don't just want to blog about these items for the sake of it you know?

I would only ever talk about something if I honestly LOVED it and wanted to keep using it in my life.

Therefore-the following review is on an item I am in LOVE with and I enjoyed using, was curious to experiment with and can honestly say I am so happy I did!

Enrapture kindly contacted me a few weeks ago-asking me did I want to take part in reviewing one of their products. The choice was out of three products;

The Amplify Jumbo Waver

The Encode Totem Styler

The Extremity Heated Rollers

All three products interested me, however, I decided to try out the Extremity Heated Rollers-as I was advised they not only add curls or loose waves, but volume to your hair too (and let's face it, you can never have too much VOLUME)!

Here are the heated rollers below in their chic, modern casing...

I think my absolute favourite thing about these rollers are the fact that the rollers themselves are easy and convenient to manage without burning yourself, due to the fact that they are coated in a velvet textured fabric-which acts as a barrier between the roller itself and your fingers. They also have unique butterfly clips which help emit heat using the two heated metal plates.

The set comes with twenty rollers in total-ten medium sized rollers and ten large sized ones. Offering the two different sized rollers gives you the choice to choose a style personal to you and your hair, due to the fact that they both create different effects on the hair.

The medium sized rollers are meant to give you more of an 'extreme' curl and tighter ones, whereas the larger size provide volume and more bigger and relaxed waves.

However, you can mix the two different sizes up to achieve a more unique, textured look to the hair-this I chose to do!

The unit works by plugging it in to an electrical socket and waiting about 3 minutes if that to heat up! That impressed me in itself, as in the past, I have seen my friends and even my mum moan and wine about how long their rollers take to heat up! Enrapture are clearly up to date with the modern woman of our times! We are just too busy and always go, go, go to be waiting around all day (well, 10 minutes) for these things to heat up and be ready to use!

On these Enrapture ones, you know when they are ready to use as the front display panel will indicate it being ready by displayed red LED lights. When these are all lit up, you are ready to curl!

This is my hair before (brushed through and heat protected by using the Schwarzkopf Got2b Guardian Angel heat protector spray)

I then applied a mixture of the medium and large rollers and clipped them easily and securely into place. You could obviously feel some warmth, but nothing uncomfortable at all.

I defiantly noticed an increase in volume and also a wave and relaxed tousle look through my hair. I do however feel that it didn't quite create the curls I wanted to achieve (big and bouncy) but that could be before I have only done a couple of pratice runs and I am not use to using the rollers, so it could be a case

of practice makes perfect!

Even though it didn't give me full curls as I hoped, I did enjoy the bouncy waves and general volume added to my hair. It actually looked like my hair was like this naturally (I wish)!

I am generally pleased I have these rollers and look forward to playing with them more and achieving different looks with them! Especially on the run-up to the 'pary, festive season'! If you want to achieve glamours or relaxed curls/wave-I think these Enrapture Extremity Heated Rollers should be added to your Christmas Wish List! ;)

The Enrapture range can be seen in more detail here and are available to purchase from Boots, John Lewis, Debenhams along with other retailers seen here.

Do any of you use heated rollers? Have you ever tried these ones? Also, any hair gurus out there-please feel free to leave me a comment below with any advice you may have for a heated roller 'Learner' like me!

xoxo

Sunday Inspiration and Style Notes...

2011-10-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

So Sunday night has returned once again.

This is my least favourite part of the week!

It signifies the end of a brilliant, fun, lovely weekend and marks the start of a new working week.

Now don't get me wrong, I luckily love my job-but hey, we all live for the weekends right? A time to see loved ones, go out, shop, eat, explore, catch up on sleep.

So to avoid the Sunday Evening and Monday morning slump-I find myself either browsing the net for inspiration and prettiness, or magazines whilst sipping a cup of coco in bed.

Here are my 'Sunday Inspirations'...

Do you feel the end of the weekend blues? Or do you feel inspired and have the 'up and ready, let's get on with it' attitude for the new week ahead?

What inspires you?

xoxo

'Let them Eat Cake'

2011-10-18T12:25:00.000-07:00

This was once famously said by 'Marie Antoinette', the famous French Queen Consort.

I must say, she sounds like my kind of Queen!

She said this now iconic moment in history-when she learnt that the peasants had no bread, she simply was oblivious and replied with the 'cake' comment.

Awkward....

I have never seen the film version of the story of this lady's life (played by Kirsten Dunst in 2006) but I have always been in love and drawn instantly to any images I see from the film.

The outfits and sets in general look absolutely breathtaking and pure beautiful! It does not surprise me at all to hear the film won an Academy Award for 'Best Costume Design'.

The colours, the lux fabrics, the textures, the lighting, the hair, the make-up, the food, the interior, the extras...everything is perfection and my idea of 'Coture Heaven'.

Enjoy the 'icing on the cake' of the fashion, interior and tone of the film below...

'Bon Appetit'!

I desperately need to now watch this film, whilst sitting in a pretty dress (sadly not silk and satin, embellished Couture), wearing my sparkly shoes, sipping from a proper, lady-like china tea cup and saucer and admiring the 'art' of this film.

Other films that have lent me inspiration me when it comes to fashion, beauty and scenery are the following;

The Devil Wears Prada

The September Issue

Pride and Prejudice

Sex and the City (the whole box set collection as well as the films of course)

Breakfast a Tiffany's

Grease

Top Gun

Sin City

Clueless

Have any of you seen this film? If so, what are your thoughts on it?

What other films have inspired you, either through the fashion, beauty or interior detailing?

xoxo

'To Sail Away, Far Away'-LookBook style

2011-10-16T05:11:00.000-07:00

Ahh weekends...

Weekends to me are for spending time with my loved ones, blogging, researching new finds, sorting out my wardrobe, finishing a good book, making jewellery, vegging out on the sofa in front of an old Audrey Hepburn film (or if I am feeling lazy-the 'X Factor).

As much as I sometimes plan the above ahead for certain weekends, to keep me organised and on track-I do enjoy the odd weekend where nothing is planned and I can be a little spontaneous with my time.

Yesterday for me and my boyfriend was one of 'those days'.

We started off by jumping in my car, wrapping up, sticking the 'sunnies' on and enjoying a carefree ride down the A12 in my Mini C (roof down of course), listening to some 'classic Queen'.

We ended up stumbling across a little town called 'Woodbridge'-about an hour and 30 minutes from my house.

I had never heard of this little river-side town (anyone else)?-but we we won over by it's old fashioned English charm and beautiful views over the water and fisher men's bay.

We went for a hot chocolate and toastie at the 'Georgin Cafe' (beautiful old building)-then had a wonder around on the cobbled streets, admiring the pretty one-off Boutique shops, book shops charity shops and the first of many fish&chip shops along the way...

Some pictures for you...

Black leather, studded jacket-Zara

Burgundy Maxi dress-Local Boutique near where I live

Silk and Velvet beaded scarf (vintage)

Handbag-Modalu

Sunglasses-Rayban Wayfarer

Chunky purple stone ring-Topshop

Feather earrings-Topshop

♥ him

Outshone by sunlight itself!

What are your favourite things to do on a weekend? I would love to hear!

P.S-I have just signed up a LookBook account and would appreciate it very much if you went along and became a fan or 'Hyped' my look ;)

xoxo

Autumn has arrived, but not only outside, in my Wardrobe too

2011-10-11T11:44:00.000-07:00

Faux leather studded jacket-Zara

Brown t-shirt-Topshop

Trousers-Topshop

Necklace-Forever 21

Rings-Gold skull 'Kim' ring, Daisy Knights-ruby gold ring, vintage (my nan's)
Shoes-Vivienne Westwood

Today's outfit was inspired by the current weather here in the South East of the UK.

Autumnal, airy, brown leaves falling, a bit overcast, cosy, laid back....

These silky trousers with a gorgeous paint splattered effect on are my new staple trousers in my wardrobe. When looking at them closer, they almost look like they have small brown, black and cream feathers dancing over them.

What I also like about them was the price-£10 I paid for them, off a friend who brought them from Topshop (current season) about a month ago and doesn't want them anymore. My first question was 'WHY'?!-My second question was 'How much'?!

The colour pallet used in my outfit today are defiantly some of my favourite colours. As much as I adore the block colour trend (set to continue into Autumn/Winter 11)-I am naturally drawn to more earthy tones and textures and relish this time of year when the creams, baby pinks, and other pastel tones leave my wardrobe until next year and I can make room for coffee browns, mustard, olives, charcoal greys...each colour tone I have just listed makes me think of Autumn (my favourite season) and there is nothing better than being ready for 'Fall' and what it may bring...

Do you find yourself switching over to different tones and shades once the colder weather approaches us?

If so, what are your favourite colours and what do they remind you off when you wear them?

Until next time...

xoxo

Feeling rather 'spotty'

2011-10-04T10:37:00.000-07:00

Unless you have had your head buried in the sand for the past month or so, you would know that THE print to be seen in this season is the adorable yet utterly chic Dalmatian spots.

Everyone from Burberry to Topshop Unique sent this fun, unique and exciting print down the runway and has given people like me the chance to play with a new print that I haven't seen been used in designer shows before.

When looking at this print, it is of course hard to ignore the fact that a 'muse' to these designers would have been the Disney classic character of 'Cruella Deville' from '101 Dalmations'. It seems the past couple of years she has been on the scene inspiring not only designers, but even for MAC to feature her in one of their biggest launches, 'The Disney Villains Collection'.

From a high-street point of view, Topshop (Unique) has stood out amongst the rest with regards to this print being featured on their designs. Some of my favourite items are below...

Topshop Unique Dalmatian Print Button Boots-£140

Topshop Unique Dalmatian Trench Coat £350

Topshop Unique Dalmatian print silk shorts £75

Topshop Unique Dalmatian Bomber Jacket £280.00

Topshop Dalmatian print tassel bag £25

Yes Topshop Unique may be a tad on the pricey side, but if you have the money to spend on a an investment piece for this Autumn/Winter, they are the place to go!

Of course I dream of owning pretty much all of the above but can see myself being tempted by the boots and the bag, as both are fairly kind to my bank balance and add a hint of the print to any outfit. If you are not keen or a little nervous on such a huge statement piece such as a coat covered in the dalmatian spots, then using smaller, key items such as the bag or shoes-can help inject the trend into your current wardrobe.

It's not just fashion that's turned all 'dotty' on us, but the beauty world too.

Nails have been dotted, top knot buns are becoming higher (or as seen on Topshop Unique, one bun either side the top of the head). The trend is fun, young, quirky and cute!

Will you be joining Cruella and her 'gang' with this season's must-have, must-see print or will you be leaving it to the adorable puppies below?

xoxo

The Last Days of Summer

2011-10-02T11:25:00.000-07:00

I write this on the 2nd October 2011-when typically the weather here in England should be grey, dull, breezy, a little chill in the air and no doubt a downpour of rain.

However, I am thrilled to say it is in fact glorious sunshine and 31C here!

The weather people were right-we are having a wave of an Indian Summer at the moment, so this weekend was defiantly the time to make the most of it!

After a little boutique shopping trip (post about the goodies I picked up coming soon)!-a little family time and BBQ, me and my boyfriend headed to the sea-side for a walk along the sea-front, a lick of ice-cream and a general good old fashion British Summer Day out!

Top-Mulberry Alexa Bunny top

Shorts-New Look

Wedges-New Look

Bag-Louis Vuitton Neverfull

Sunglasses-Ray Ban

Return to Tiffany chain bracelet

Swarovski Heart bracelet

Bye, bye Summer....(all one week of you)....time to get the booties out pack the sandals away...

I hope you all had a beautiful weekend in the sunshine!

xoxo

My Moroccan Magicial Tale...

2011-09-26T11:12:00.000-07:00

I have recently got back from what I can only describe as the most magical, exciting, romantic, inspiring holiday I think I have ever had.

Marrakesh, Morocco-you have stolen my heart.

Myself and my wonderful man (Steve), landed on Thursday 15th September, 8.30pm local time and it was still 30C!! (I knew just at that moment I was in for a major treat with the weather)!

And boy did it not disappoint...

Everyday was at least 31C and it was utter bliss bathing in the pool, then getting out to dry off on your sun lounger and just feeling the glorious heat sweep over you.

As we have not had a good Summer at all here in the UK-this weather was much needed for me and did me the world of good!

We stayed at the beautiful and classy up market, 'Club Hotel Rui Tikida Palmeraie' which I can not recommend enough! It was divine and truly a real joy to stay there. Not only was the all inclusive delicious and top notch, with the hotel boasting superb interior and architecture and the most lavish gardens and pool area, but the staff there were all so friendly and could not go out of their way enough to help you! The entertainment team were also incredibly hard-working and very talanted.

As this was a relaxing break for me and Steve, most days were spent lazing by the pool (in one week I read four books! I have always been a big book worm....), sunbathing, chatting, listening to music, drinking Mojitos and Strawberry Daiquiris (now known as my 'holiday drink'). It was utter perfection and something we both just lapped up and enjoed.

Two of the days we did venture out though, to explore Marrakesh and it's culture and it is most certianly a colourful, vibrant, friendly, fast-paced city!

We went into the moutains and sat by the most breath-taking views and waterfalls whilist having a picnic..we rock-climbed through a 'natural bridge' (bascially a huge cave)!...we saw how a small, local village lived and used donkeys and lived amonst wild monkeys!

The second time we went out exploring we went into the lively city of Marrakesh.

We were for a good 4-5 hours and we still probbably didn't see half of it! Filled with at least 60,000 souks (souks being like markert stalls) inside and out, there was so much to see and explore...

Seriously, if I had had a suitcase big enough, I would have brought home SO much!

It was filled with the most beautiful jewellery, Moroccon slippers, leather bags, jewellery boxes, Moroccon lamps, spices, food...it was truly an Aladdin's Cave of wonder and magic.

What also excited me about visiting Morroco was the fact that Sex and the City 2 had been filmed there! To know Carrie and the girls had been to the same airport as me, the same stalls and shops...it's just so much fun for such a big fan of the show! We even drove past the beautiful hotel they stayed in, but sadly, just to go in to take pictures, they wanted a lot of money (which I would rather have saved for present shopping)!
Still, it was very surreal to see it and it looked beyond stunning.

I have many, many pictures from my holiday (well over 200)-but I will just pick some of my faves below for you...

This holiday was just pure Heaven for us both and I cannot wait for the next one...

xoxo

And the holiday begins NOW!

2011-09-15T02:22:00.000-07:00

I thought the image above seemed quite fitting for the location I am off to today on holiday, (plus it shows gorgeous fashion)!

Morocco here we come!!! :)

Yep, that's right-me and the boyfriend are off today for a week in the sun and heat to Marrakesh, Morocco and I could not be more excited!

I cannot wait for sun, sea, cocktails, markets, ruby gems, all inclusive food (and cocktails)!, sand dunes, camel riding....

This break is one much needed by us both, as life has been pretty non-stop and hectic lately!

It will be nice to just be together, have some 'zen' time, experience a new, beautiful culture and place-and hopefully catch a bit of a golden glow whilst doing all that! ;)

I will make sure to take lots of pictures and SATC 2 inspired OOTD's!

So, see you in a week guys! Take care...

xoxo

Just a bunch of Cool People

2011-09-05T11:05:00.000-07:00

The title says it all.

Images from weheartit.com

xoxo

Stuck in a Hair Rut...

2011-08-31T10:58:00.000-07:00

Being stuck in a hair rut to me is worse than having an actual knot! (My trusty hot pink Tangle Teezer helps me with that problem).

All I know is I want change...

I think it's a Season thing, because whenever Spring comes round, I tend to go short and dramatic and then when Autumn comes back round, I tend to want long, thick hair, full of rich colour. I guess it's just like making the transition from sandals to fabulous boots (in a hair sort of way)...?!

The thing is, I can't seem to get out of this 'rut', by not knowing what it is exactly I want.

I opened this subject up for discussion today in the office with some of the girls and these are the looks they want me to try;

Ombre/dip dye

(this one looks really cool and suits the girl above as she has the right colouring and length to pull it off. I sadly don't).

Red Wine

Blackcurrant Streaks

I think all of the colour mentioned and shown above are gorgeous and young, fun, (something I can only get away with at my age now)-but I am also a bit...scared dare I say it of them! As amazing as the purple/blackcurrant streaks picture looks above, I would be a little nervous in case I ended up looking like a bad, sad and RETIRED punk rocker! Not a cool, fun, vibrant NOW punk rocker!

I know the 'ombre' thing is kind of over-done in some respects now, but I do really like it! I am wondering if to do the traditional colour options, or maybe have my hair dipped in dark red?

So to all you hair lovers, gurus....whoever you are, pretty please can you wave your 'hair drying' wand and let me know below what colour/style you think I should go for, for this AW 11.

I would be 'hairternally' grateful if you would (lame yes I know).

xoxo

A Modern Day Dorothy

2011-08-29T11:19:00.000-07:00

Remember being a little girl and watching the 'Wizard of Oz' for the first time and feeling your eyes widen as they caught sight of the now iconic Ruby Red Shoes? They way they sparkled and the Ruby colour so rich and exotic looking. I remember just wanting a pair on my feet and at the end of the school day, wanting to just click my feet together and repeat the lines, 'There's no place like home, there's no place like home...'

Thanks to Miu Miu, the now grown up side of me can too have a pair of magical glittery shoes (although I doubt when I have missed the last train on a night out these would help me get home any quicker).

These wonderful shoes are defiantly on my wish-list. The PERFECT Christmas Party shoes in my opinion!

I adore all the different coloured detailing but my heart is swaying more towards the gold and mint coloured ones....

'Glinda, make them a size 5 please'!

xoxo

Looking through Kaleidoscopic glasses...

2011-08-27T08:48:00.000-07:00

For anyone who knows me really well reading this, you'd know I am a creative person who studied art and design as well as interior and architecture at college and University.

With regards to art, I think it is something which is just a part of you and can evolve even more the older and wiser you get.

Don't get me wrong, I have met people in my life who have grown to appreciate art coming from not enjoying it at all, but I also know many who think my idea of a sometimes 'cool' Saturday is to hang out in the Tate or V&A is in fact rather dull-which is absolutely fine! Each to their own.

Ever since a young age I have painted, coloured, stenciled, made ceramic ornaments-my favourite being a tortoise for my mum and dad when I was 10 at school, (Bertie still sits in their display cabinet proud as punch)! I just naturally enjoy being creative and getting my hands a little dirty, to not only find ways of expressing yourself but also, to make wonderful pieces to not just keep for yourself, but to give away as gifts for people.

From time to time now I still paint (mainly with oils), but I concentrate more now on free hand sketches and also, designing and making handmade jewellery to wear myself but also sell.

This is why I am very excited I have discovered the artist 'Ana Montiel' and her blog sharing her inspiration from other artists but also including her beautiful, colourful and vibrant pieces she draws herself.

I urge you to go check out her blog 'AM on The Present Tense' even if you find yourself not being interested in the art world particularly, as I find her quite a 'current' and modern artist and really enjoy her use of colours and shading, to create beautiful shapes and illustrations.

I'd love to know your thoughts on these pieces and if you enjoy art or not?

xoxo

P.S-Any of you budding artists out there or if you know anyone who is one, please let me know as I love discovering new greats ;)

An update on a big Secret...

2011-08-21T10:01:00.000-07:00

So if you have been a follower/reader of mine for a while now, you would know I design and make my own jewellery under the name 'Sara's Secret'.

These pieces are all handmade by moi and they were mostly vintage pieces, which therefore made them quite rare and unique for people to wear.

I was overwhelmed to say the least, on the amount of support and love for my designs I got from a lot of you out there and that was a huge boost to my creative confidence and skills.

However, I am sure you would have noticed that for a long while now, I haven't uploaded any new pieces and have not really spoke about 'Sara's Secret' too much.

The reason being, I felt I needed to take a step back from it and actually sit down and seriously and work it all out as a proper business plan. Not just that, I needed to gain much more inspiration and start sourcing new types of materials, charms and overall findings, to really mix the collections up and add much more variety and appeal.

So...I am extremely excited to announce that by AW 11, 'Sara's Secret' will be revealing a brand new look-both in the style of jewellery it provides and the look of a website we have coming too!

Expect much more contemporary, modern and fierce pieces-also, some designs will be made in real gold and silver (however some will still be plated to give a price variety to all). Swaroski crystals and stones will be featured and a variety of actual pieces-from necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, arm bangles....all exclusively designed and hand-made by me.

I hope you join me in being just as excited to see it and hopefully wear it, as I am sharing it with all of you fabulous, eternally stylish people!

Coming soon....a Secret for all stylish to wear...

Photo from weheartit.com

xoxo

Louis Vuitton uses the cutest models yet for their AW 11 Campaign

2011-08-17T11:06:00.000-07:00

This is a match-made in Heaven for me!

As I am sure you are all aware by now, I am a HUGE fan of Louis Vuitton and luckily own a few of his handbags, purse and accessories. My obsession and love for the brand and their designs will never leave me....

Also, I adore dogs (miss mine everyday) :(

But no time for sad talk, as Louis Vuitton have introduced the most precious dogs including Pugs (one of my favourite breeds)-to their latest AW 11 Campaign.

Too cute for words!

Them bags are divine too and the one to the right is so big, a pug could happily fit in one for a stylish trip ;)

Here are some other FURBULOUS (See, like what I did there)?-canine friends who were posing away for the house of Vuitton.

The video is very interesting and beautiful too and only a couple of minutes long, so it's deffiantly worth checking out to see more about the campaign from Marc Jacobs himself....

I wonder if you buy one bag, you get a dog free...?

A 'Vintage Tea-Party' inspired way to display your lipsticks and all things pretty...

2011-08-08T08:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I was extremely happy and a bit emotional to receive a box of some very old china tea-sets from a family friend of ours.

These belonged to someone who sadly isn't with us anymore but she was honestly like a grandmother to me.

She was always so elegant, so classy, such a lady and she enjoyed nothing better than wearing pearls, packing up proper Hamper style Picnics and also, the best thing of all...

Tea Parties

Being quintessentially English, this is one of my favourite past times like a lot of folk over here, including hers.

She passed away about 4 years ago now, however this box was found and I am ever so grateful our friends thought of me.

They know I adore nothing more than hunting through antique pieces on a Sunday and collecting such items for my bedroom (and my own future place)-and displaying them in such a way, that it helps add charm to my room, old fashioned glamour and an air of prettiness and elegance one would like to think.

The set given to me yesterday is quite a large collection, all the same colours and prints, but varying from tea-cups, to matching saucers, to dinner and desert plates.

They are also all Royal Albert China and at least 50 years old.

As you can imagine, for sentimental reasons as well as their age, the whole collection is very important and special to me, so most of it has been carefully put into storage for me. However, I couldn't resist but to keep a tea-cup and saucer for my bedroom now, to reminder me of her (not that I need help with that really...) but it's nice to wake-up and see it everyday, not to mention they are extremely beautiful.

But, to add a little twist to this Tea-Cup and Saucer set, I was playing around as you do and happened to come up with this display arrangement...

I pretty much on a day to day basis for work-tend to stick to the same 4 or 5 lipsticks as they tend to suit most moods and most outfits. I thought it would be a cute and practical way to keep them in view so I can just grab whatever one I feel like in the morning and go!

Also, I can rotate from my rather large lipstick collection and every week or so, change the shades being displayed in the tea-cup.

It doesn't just have to be lipsticks you could display...

Here, I removed the tea-cup and simply placed one of my perfumes in the centre of the saucer.

Again, this looks pretty, a bit unique to just it sitting on my chest and reminds me to use it!

You could do the same with a scented candle perhaps...

Rings and small earrings could also be placed in the tea-cup itself. You could display your most worn ones or simply display pretty ones to add to the display. Just remember to not over-load, as you don't want the cup to get ruined in any way with the weight of the contents inside!

This is one of my favourite pieces and I do actually have a pair, but I thought placing one of my small Blue Mink Glass vases on the Saucer looked extremely pretty and well placed in my room.

It just goes to show, one little Tea-Cup and Saucer set as above, can prove to give you much more pretty, arty, vintage inspired treats than just using it for a good old English Tea.

However...I do fancy a brew now...

As always, I would love to hear what you think of this and if it's inspired you to display your favourite treats in a different way?

xoxo

A Bunny Slipper-A Pet for your other shoes?

2011-08-03T12:39:00.000-07:00

Words cannot describe these....

Or can they?

Cute?

Bizarre?

Freaky?

Retro?

Glamours?

Adorable?

Kitsch?

Sick?

I think if your a cross between someone who loves 'Old Hollywood' and that side of girly glamour, where you don't wear tartan plaid PJ Bottoms (like I do)!-and instead, wear retro, pretty, delicate silk dressing gowns and negligee around your parlour (bedroom to me) and is also an animal lover, then these are for you!

They come in baby pink and baby blue and were designed and founded by a Mother and Daughter from New Orleans. You can read more about their fascinating story here on their website for 'Streetzie’s High Heel Bunny Slippers'.

Would you introduce these bunnies into your wardrobe?

Would they be your favourite pets of the shoe world?

I have always wanted my own bunny....

I would love to know what you all think on this as I think they are so unique but like Marmite-you either LOVE them or HATE them!

Me....

xoxo

A day at the Vintage Festival

2011-07-31T12:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was just one of those perfect days...

Myself and Milly met in London and popped down to the South Bank by the River Thames and right near the Royal Festival Hall, to visit the 'Vintage Festival 2011' that was being held there for three days. This I believe is the first time this festival has visited the Capital and after being there yesterday-I do hope it pays many more visits in the future!

There were two options;

1)-Pay £60 and have access to the stalls, food places and pop up boutiques etc-as well as getting into the Royal Festival Hall, for an exhibition, runway shows inspired by different eras and music events.

2)-Pay nothing and explore the delights of the Vintage Stalls and amazing smelling food huts all for absolutely nothing!

Guess what option we chose? ;)

We weren't overally bothered about visiting inside the exhibition, fashion shows etc...so we chose the option to stay outside in London's glorious sunshine, mooching about and exploring all the wonders to see at the fair.

It was so much bigger than we thought! Here are some treasures we came across...

Above is one of my favourite pictures I took of the day. I would love to have this blown up and framed!

Amazing! The most adorable way to get a tattoo in my opinion...

The cutest and chicest handmade dolls. Loving the Audrey Hepburn influence with the hair and some even had tiny pearl necklaces on. Too cute!

These were all handmade, unique and different scented candles which I honestly thought were brilliant! I know some high-street retailers sell these sort of things, but what I liked about these were how each one was unique, as the cups and saucers were all different and all vintage! I love how she used jelly moulds to make fun and playful looking candles also. Blog post on all these coming soon...

I am all up for things being unique and a bit 'out there' (that's my favourite part of fashion)!-but this crocodile clutch below was a bit TOO much!!

This box was just jammed pack full of American Motel keys! They were great fun to go through and look at and a real unique item!

A true British style ICON

I will own one of these type-writers one day...

Your very own 'Silent Disco' in the middle of the street! FANTASTIC! ;)

Down part of the stretch of the South Bank outside the Vintage Festival are tempoary Beach Huts (a true British sea-side classic). It really livens the place up and adds some good old fashion sea-side fun to the occasion. The below was my favourite-with it's candy kane colour influence and glitter painted all over it, it was a Beach Hut suitable for Dorothy herself!

As you can probably see, the festival was a true success and the perfect day out near the River in my favourite City!

Afterwards, we walked along the South Bank, past the Tate Modern and sat near the river with some chilled wine and Greek Food to end our Vintage affair.

Bliss.

Did you attend the Vintage fair?

Is it the sort of place you'd like to visit?

I would love to know xoxo

This is not Dawsons Creek anymore...

2011-07-25T11:42:00.000-07:00

This is Claire's Creek

Yes, fabulously cheesy I know but I just couldn't resist!

A stone throw from where I live is a beautiful creek and on a rather sunny, warm day like yesterday-it is the perfect hidden place to go park up your car, stick the roof down, listen to some 'Kooks' and 'Rolling Stones' and just enjoy the feeling of the warm sun bathing your face.

It also very much reminds me of 'Dawsons Creek'.

Who didn't love that show?! ♥

Pacey Witter was also a firm favourite of mine and Joey...was just plain annoying at times!

Dawson had incredibly large eye-brows and they didn't match the colour of his 'dyed' hair a that great, but you had to love his Spielberg talk and of course his ladder into his bedroom (I begged and begged for one but my parents always said a definite 'no').

So, in true Creek style, please find below some pictures my 'part-time photographer' (aka-The Boyfriend-Steve) took.

Navy sleeveless button-up top-Topshop

Silk Kimono-Topshop

Skirt-Vintage

Brogues-River Island

Bag-Modalu

Jewellery-Miss Selfridge, H&M, Vintage

Ice-Cream Van car air-freshener-River Island

To me, this Sunday afternoon was just what I needed...

My Man

Sunshine

Ice-Cream

Nature

The Sea Smell

Fashion (remember, never be afraid to clash prints even if they are both bold prints like the two I am wearing in this look. It MAKES an outfit).

'I don't want to wait'

Love

My current Loves ♥

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

These are the things I am loving at the moment and really enjoying having as part of my daily life...

*My beloved iPad2 in White with it's Marc by Marc Jacobs Turquoise case*

*Vivienne Westwood Heart Dragon Shoes in Lilac*

*Barry M Glitter Nail Polish-number 244 'Hexograms'*

*China Glaze Nail Polish-number 556 'Seduce me'*

*Miss Selfridge Turquoise Long Cross Necklace*

*Topshop necklace with lipsticks and tea-pots*

*Topshop Gold Skull ring*

*Urban Decay Naked Pallet*

*Customised hand painted palest pink Antique Mirror from Pilfered*

*Dior Lip gloss-number 318 'Praline'*

*Soleil Tan De Chanel'*

What things help you get through your day or simply just put a :) on your face?

xoxo

The hangbag which is impossible to get thanks to Pippa...

2011-07-07T10:38:00.000-07:00

Yeah CHEERS Pip!

I am sure some of you have seen this bag recently in numerous fashion and weekly mags (I first saw it in Look magazine this week)...

It's by a brand from London called 'Modalu' and up until very recently, the bag was called the 'Bristol', however thanks to the publicity Ms Middleon has given it in recent weeks-it has been re-named the 'Pippa'.

If you are a regular and long-term reader of mine, then you will know how much I truly, truly adore and obsess over handbags and how I practically 'collect' them (they are my weakness yes, more than chocolate or heels)! So to now be told I can't get a bag I desperately want easily or quickly...well, this is simply 'handbag heartbreak'!

If like me you are eager for this bag on your arm-just hop along to the Modalu website and sign up to be notified when it is back in stock.

All colours this bag comes in are stunning and real classics for every look and season year after year, but the colour in particular I am dreaming of carrying is called 'Shark' (pictured below);

I have not got a bag in this colour pallet at all and as much as I love the Tan colour she has also been pictured wearing, my Michael Kors bag is a very similar shade, so if I brought the Shark colour above, this would add to the variety of my collection.

It's the perfect size at H25 x W36 x D14cm and has the following details;

Leather

Grab handles 14cm

Detachable shoulder strap

Two front zip pockets

Back zip pockets

Branded Modalu hardware

Feet on base

Three inner zip compartments

Interior slip pocket

Interior zip pocket

Modalu lining

Modalu dust bag

So, for the first time ever I actually feel like I am in SATC, where Samantha has to wait for 'The Berkin' (obviously, a tad different to this bag...) but I am still in awe of it's simplicity and under-stated style, yet elegant, chic, easy to wear, it's practicality and beautiful features!

So Pippa, LAY OFF MODALU for a while please and let them name a bag after me...

'The Claire'

*I can dream can't I?*

;)

xoxo

Forget the sales-check out my mini pretty Blogsale!

2011-07-02T04:49:00.000-07:00

So as I am sure all you ladies are aware, it's officially SALE time out their on the high-street!

Now, as much as I do love a little peek at the sales and I sometimes will treat myself, I do also find sometimes blog sale shopping or eBay is more fun and cheaper too!

Therefore-I thought I would join in with the Summer Sale madness and do a mini fashion blog sale.

The usual applies...

*UK & Ireland only*-(sorry)!

*Postage for all items will be £1.50*

*No returns*

*Paypal only*

Let the shopping commence! ;)

ASOS blue (vintage inspired) dress.

When I wore it last night-a friend told me it was very 'Kate Midleton' inspired!

Size 12-£6.00

H&M Floral tunic top

A very pretty, light-weight, silk tunic-ideal for wearing with shorts, leggings or jeans.

Size Euro 38-£5.00

Topshop Floral Back-scoop neck dress ***SOLD****

A gorgeous, silky feeling dress with 3/4 sleeves and a scooped back.

Size 10-£8.00

Topshop Moto Baby Blue denim gillet

A pretty, powdery, baby blue-perfect for this season!

Size 10-£15.00

Disney Minnie Mouse pink tshirt

Super cute with a skirt or tucked into city shorts for a fun, fresh look!

Size Small-£4.00

Topshop Sweetheart Deer skirt ***SOLD****

Adorable and it was limited edition! Wear now with bare, Summer legs and then in the Winter-it would look fab with black knits and a white knit cardie.

Size 10-£10.00

River Island grey/taupe bag ***SOLD****

Perfect for work ad shopping! Medium size so great for fitting lots in. It also has interior and exterior pockets and the lining inside is super cute chain detailing!

£5.00

Leave a comment below or email me at fashionteller@hotmail.co.uk if you are interested in purchasing anything or have any questions.

Thanks! xoxo

Away with the fairies...

2011-06-30T12:01:00.000-07:00

Well, sadly I haven't been hanging with Tinkerbell and chums...

But life has been rather hectic and fast-paced lately!

I just want to quickly apologise for not blogging in a little while.

I have honestly missed it but it's mainly been a combination of the following reasons;

Busy work life

Busy social life

Being unwell

Exhausted

The dreaded 'Bloggers Block'

However, I am starting to feel more myself again, I am trying to keep healthy, work is still hectic but okay and I am starting to get inspired to blog again :)

This post as well as a 'Hi I am still here' post, is going to be a little Summer Outfit of the Day.

Today was a work day, but luckily where I work, we can pretty much wear what we want.

Today was still warm but not as humid, but I still chose an easy, relaxed, simple, Summer look...

(eekk-sorry for the weird mix of shades on the top of this pic)?!

Silk kimono- Very.co.uk

Black Maxi Dress- Miss Selfridge

Zebra print sandals- River Island

Silver chain twisted belt- Miss Selfridge

This whole look to me is effortless and comfortable, yet still quite summery and fun for a day look. This kimono is so soft and lovely to wear. I really appreciate the detailing on the shoulders (slightly cupped and pinched upwards) and the mix of the Oriental inspired shape and 70's Summer influenced shades, just gives it an overall femminie, fresh look.

I hope you are all well and I promise I have left the fairies now with inspiration to blog... :)

xoxo

An afternoon of love, vintage & Laduree

2011-06-18T07:39:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Firstly, just to say I am really sorry it's been a while since I posted on here-I have not been well at all and I am still not feeling myself and still have some bits wrong with me but I am trying to rest up and of course get better ASAP.

Last Saturday before I started to feel ill, me and my amazing man headed off to London just for a day out in the sunshine and a walk about the different markets and shops.

We finished our day near Covent Garden as we wanted to have drinks round there and pop into the big and rather fun Apple store there.

Then, I totally remembered that one of my favourite places in the world had opened up very recently in Covent Garden...Laduree.

I first went to a Laduree sit-down cafe/restaurant last September when me and Steve had the most magical and romantic few days away in Paris. We ended our trip there and the tea and Macaroons were like a little piece of Heaven and my love and addiction for them started there.

Since then, I haven't sadly been back to Paris (but am hopefully heading out there in a couple of months with one of my friends) were Laduree will defiantly be at the top of our list to visit! In March this year, I did visit the Laduree section in Harrods which was still a joy but to me, didn't feel quite the same as it was obviously still part of Harrods.

Now with this stand-alone one in Covent Garden, it really brings back the memories (and tastes)!-of the one in Paris...

As the queue to sit down was far too long, Steve kindly treated us to some macaroons to take-away (which I was secretly happy about as it meant I could keep the beautiful box they come in for my room! The colours match my walls to perfection)!

We chose Chocolate, Vanilla (my favourite), Coconut, Pistachio and Caramel.

I also now have my eye on the china covered and scented candles that they sell (pictured above)-they are so lovely but a tad pricey too (maybe to add on the future Christmas list). We also have deffiantly decided we aim to have a Laduree Tower Cake at our furture fairy-tale wedding-How could we not?! <3

The outfit I decided to wear that day was my beautiful and gem of a find dress, from a vintage shop in Manchester I visited with Milly a couple of months ago.

It really reminds me of something Mulberry could have designed and I like the fact I can dress it up or down for pretty much any occasion.

I decided to 'merchandise it up', with my Jaeger mink leather, quilted handbag with gold chain detailing, some black tights and my River Island brown Brogue style boots (which are completely worn in now but I love them to death)!

The floaty fabric and swaying sleeves, mixed with the long black bow ribbon (which I either wear tied neatly in a large bow, or sometimes wear long, loose and casual like a tie)-give this whole look a truly whimsical, vintage and quite romantic feel.

So, there we have my day out with my three favourite things;

My Man
My Vintage Gem
Laduree

xoxo

Love Lace ♥

2011-06-10T11:55:00.000-07:00

Some people look at lace and it makes them think of the following;

Your Nan's curtains

Your Nan's table cloth

Your Nan

Now, of course I am sure we all love our Nan's (I love and miss both of mine) but I get what people mean, lace can be sometimes a bit 'granyish' or just make an outfit look a bit too cheap or sometimes too full on.

However, when lace is done properly I am a HUGE fan of it!

Love how this girl (amazing style blog here) has completely added contrast to this white lace skirt, by adding neon and solid black block heels. It just toughens up the whole look and makes it much more individual and more interesting to wear as well as look at.

Lace shorts are on my wish-list! This looks so cute pared with the checked shirt to throw in another mix of texture and colour and to stop it from looking too old or too girly (yes, sometimes you can look TOO girly).

If you are a little nervous to try lace as an item of clothing, introduce it by it using small accessories. These adorable shoes would work well or a prim and pretty lace collar with a dress or even socks which you can wear with brogues or cute heels.

Lace is also versatile for the long Summer months in shades of blushing sherbet pinks, creams and whites of course but also just as wearable in the dark Winter months in classic black and charcoal grey.

Have you introduced lace into your wardrobe yet?

I am aiming to find a long lace skirt like my first set of images-any ideas where I can purchase? :)

xoxo

Thursday Friday

2011-06-06T11:11:00.000-07:00

'Thursday Friday' is an LA-Based brand which I discovered a couple of months ago and have been a tad intrigued with since...

'Together Bags'

These bags at first seem like a normal, canvas, everyday shopper tote bag and as well as being all those things, it somehow is not 'the norm'. What got people talking about this bag was the fact that on the front and back of the bag, it had a print on which resembled another very famous, iconic bag-the Hermes 'Birkin' bag.

The company describe the design concept behind this bag below;

'We realized we were using the shopping bags as proxy accessories and wanted to take them a step further, to have the bag itself declare what's going on. So we ended up with a surreal design that references luxury but ultimately works as an anti-status status symbol.'

I couldn't agree more!

These bags are perfect for shopping, school, the beach...I believe you could get so much use out of them-PLUS, they are way cheaper than a Birkin! (Retailing at $45) ;)

I like all the colours but think the fuchsia red is my favourite as it's a very classic, yet fun and bold shade.

Would you accessorise with one of these bags?

If so. what colour and why?

Let's talk BAGS!!! xoxo

The importance of a statement Wedge...

2011-05-31T11:04:00.000-07:00

So Summer actually feels like it has arrived here in the South East of the UK (Fingers crossed it lasts and improves....)!

When this type of season approaches, a girl will stare into her wardrobe and think 'Now what do I wear'?! How is it all of a sudden you think you have no clothes and no accessories (when let's be honest, you probably do)...however, your wardrobe collection is craving some bright, new colours and light-weight Summery textures and materials to 'swish' and 'swooh' about in!

My wardrobe for a little while now has been craving for some beautiful, statement wedges.

So let's all play a game and pick our favourite pair below...

(Quick mobile snap of Office's Blue Suede 'Wig Out' tasseled wedges)

How amazing are they?! I could work them to work and in my spare time for outings. I would wear them with jeans, shorts, skirts....here is a cute idea below too of an outfit to pair them with...

Another pic of Office's 'Won me Over' print wedges....

These wedges were so comfy when I tried them on and look beautfiul! However, I worry the print on them would actually limit me to what outfits and colours I could wear them with...?

This pair below are limited edition from Aldo and I am sure you have seen

them a lot in the fashion press and on other blogs. I love the vibrant Aztec style colours and patterns and the hint of 'Tribal' they would bring to my wardrobe. They seem to be very hard to track down though....

The next pair are ones I have lusted over for a while now and probably the most 'classic' out of them all...

The Jeffery Campbell 'Snick' Clog Wedge...

I do really like how there seems to be a subtle yet unique shape to these Clog Wedges. The high-back and the low front make them look a bit interesting and add character. The stud detailing also helps support this look.

So...I am 'all Shoe-d' out now!

I would be interested to know what wedges you guys prefer and why and how you would wear them or how I could?

Let the WEDGE debate begin!!!

xoxo

'Home Style Home'-My New Interior and Lifestyle blog!

2011-05-30T10:34:00.000-07:00

It's finally launched guys!!!!

My NEW blog 'Home Style Home'.

This blog has been a long time in the making as regular readers of mine will know.

This blog will be all my interior work, inspirations, projects, cookery, lifestyle in general....I am so excited to share this with you all! :)

Fear not though! My blog 'The Fashion Tellers Notes' which you are reading now will still exist and be updated regularly on all things FASHION & BEAUTY!

I would really appreciate it if you could just click here on my new blog and press the little 'Follow' button and help spread the word on my new blog!

As always, a HUGE 'Thank You' to all my amazing, supportive and inspiring readers/followers...without you lot, there would be no blogs! ;)

Love xoxo