AVENUE

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I have been invited to share my ideal holiday with you guys for a chance to win a pair of sunglasses from Avenue 32, so naturally I said 'hell yeah', and got to thinking about where I'd love to jet set off too.

Where to start... Does everywhere count? Because if I could, and money wasn't an option, I'd pack up my life to travel around the entire world tomorrow. 

I think for the purpose of this post I'll have to restrain and go with a trip around Europe. Going to Paris, Milan, Venice, Amsterdam, Spain.... You get the point. With my boy and the open road. From reading Tuula and Gary Pepper Girl on the regular, I think it's fair to say that their wanderlust ways have rubbed off on me.

So what would I wear on this epic journey I hear you ask? Well lets have a look see...

Secret Café dining in Paris...

Simple white tee tucked in to a gorgeous skater skirt, classic handbag and the most amazing loafers I have ever seen. Perfect for sipping on tea and indulging on macaroons, over looking the Eiffel Tower, of course.

Colour blocking by the sea in Croatia...

A chic shirt dress thrown effortlessly over a bold red bikini for when the sea is just too tempting. A pair of blue Lennon's and a leather backpack for stocking up on goodies at the local bazaar. 

Print clashing at a cocktail evening in Venice...

A bold shirt will always look good against the clashing texture of leather, I think, and the chunkier shoe, the better. Gold accents set the look off whilst I sip my cosmo at the bar, darling.

I can dream right?!

If you get a moment, do check out the merch on Avenue 32, choosing items proved very difficult. It's all too good.

PRINT

As of late I've become quite the fan of print. As you may know I currently intern at Motel Rocks in their web editorial department, and Motel are pretty much the queens of print, so I see lots of new designs coming in every week. This has sparked my love for print again and gave me the idea for this post, so here are ten prints in my wardrobe that I'm loving at the moment, I think different variations of each print will stay around forever, so technically they're timeless... technically.

One. Distressed graphic.

I absolutely adore this top from Topshop since I managed to nab it in the sale a little while back. It's made of really soft cotton, and is a distressed blend of black and grey with a white compass print on the front. I love this type of print, well I suppose it's more towards a motif than a print per say but it works really well to add a little grungy edge to an outfit, especially for those of you who like the nautical trend but don't always want to be drowned in blue and white stripes - this one's a winner. I love the 'worn' look of this tee, it's also a box cut top so hangs so beautifully and naturally off your shoulders, meaning it works great with fitted skirts, leggings (with a strappy top underneath to hide your, erm, area) or disco pants. 

Two. Aztec.

Again, another box top from Topshop featuring a neutral aztec print. This type of print is great for adding some excitement to your outfit, especially if you're like me and don't tend to stray too far from black on a day to day basis. Aztec prints are very geometric normally, another staple design, but the colours and traingular shapes of aztec make it much more earthy and boho chic. Totally wearable for everyone, my go to for this top is a pair of black skinny jeans and chunky heels.

Three. Artistic.

As I said before, Motel are the dons of print, so naturally I had to include this Addison shirt in pink forest print. Although this print is designed around the forest, and you can make out shapes of birds and trees, it's done in such an artistic way that almost looks like the type of art you used to do as a kid when you put ink on a page and blew it with a straw. This concept for designing makes this type of print much more appealing and interesting to the eye, making you look twice to see what it is you're actually looking at - plus it's a great talking point! Motel currently have quite a few pieces in this print, plus a black version of it, so I'd recommend checking it out.

Four. Monochrome stripe.

Ah monochrome, it's everywhere and I don't think it's going anywhere soon! I'm not one to religiously follow the trends, but with one as strong as monochrome this season, I couldn't really escape it. I just went with it and now I'm in love. It's such a classic combination of black and white that will stay with you through seasons to come. You can dress it up, with a pencil skirt and heels, or down with leggings and chunky boots. Stripes are so flattering on any shape, so combining the two is an obvious win. This shirt is so relaxed and sheer, with lovely attention to detail that makes you feel all fancy. Oh, and it's Motel too, of course!

Five. Detail print.

If you're not a big fan of the all over print, then fear not! You can still get a print fix with detailing such as this bright aztec pocket - this one is on a men's Primark tee for extra comfort and baggy-ness. Pockets are not only a good place for a little print, you can find it on sleeves/shoulders, or hems etc, or you could even add some print with a funky patterned belt. So much choice! I love to pair this oversized men's tee with my disco pants for a Primark overload. Why not eh?! But it could be dressed up by adding a strong tailored black blazer and some killer wedges.

Six. Nature.

To me, this print is just b.e.a.utiful. It sits on a H&M racer back sleeveless top with an exposed zip at the back and is just so pretty! I love the fact that it's not too bright and in your face, but is enough colour to make you look all summery. Up close it actually looks like a painting which I think is great and has so much detail in the design. The top itself has been cut quite triangular so it hangs out from the body, making it perfect with a fitted bottom half and loose, relaxed knit. Because there are a lot of colours in the print, I tend to pair it with neutral tones so that the top really pops, but you could always pick out one or two of the colours in the design for a more striking look. Find a similar style here.

Seven. Monochrome aztec.

More monochrome and even more aztec, but this time, all rolled up into one crazy print. This is another men's Primark tee, I find they seem to have much better prints in the men's department, what's up with that?! Again, I tend to pair this loose tee with the same sort of styling as the last men's tee, leggings and a blazer or chunky knit. Simple, but exciting none the less.

Eight. Feathers.

Believe it or not this is actually a Primark top! So gorgeous right!? I got it a little while back now, but still get compliments on it to this day, so it's not leaving my wardrobe any time soon! Feathers are so delicate, and to me, symbolise freedom and peace, making them such a lovely base for a design. There's so much detailing in a feather, and I really do think Primark have done a great job capturing it here! Plus this burgundy colour is one of my favourite colours ever, so it's a win in my books. I tend to pair this with black, and then pull out the brown/beige in a cardigan to combine it all together.

Nine. Floral.

A print collection wouldn't be complete without a floral now would it? This little beauty is from a 'silk' camisole from Primark - jeez I need to shop somewhere else - and is so feminine and dainty. Admittedly it's a little busy on the eye, but the flowers are so small and delicate that I think it's okay. I like the colour choices, it's not too diverse, but varied enough to be a true floral. Plus I quite like he fact that up close it kind of looks like it was printed with teeny tiny potatoes... You know, like you used to do at school. As this is such an eye-straining print, I tend to keep everything else very plain and simple, most likely black - well there's a surprise!

Ten. Smoke/mottled.

Woohoo you made it to the end! Pat on the back for you. It seems this entire post has been made up of top halves, so here's a bottom for you, so you can feel complete. This print is from a pair of Topshop 'relaxed' leggings. Well that's what I call them because they aren't quite hareem pants, nor joggers or normal leggings. This print is so lovely, it's a little pinker in real life, but is a gorgeous mottled grey/pink/peach mix. I guess if it were blue it would make the perfect back drop to your school portrait photo. This looks great paired with a really white, baggy tee tucked in loosely, but works equally well with black and grey. I guess you could easily DIY this print with some fabric paint and sponges... Hmmm...

So there you go! My favorite ten prints in my wardrobe, what did you think? Do you have a favorite? I must point out, I am in no way trying to dictate what anyone should wear, I'm merely sharing my own thoughts. :)

Have a great day!

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SO IT GOES

Photography and fashion go hand in hand, both being a huge passion of mine along with the wonder that is print magazine. So It Goes magazine is a new, biannual magazine that celebrates print in a world that's turning more and more towards digital. The magazine "champions the original voices of today" and allows photographers, journalists and other creatives to come together in the most beautifully put together publication.

Whilst I may have been away from the blogging scene as of late, for a number of reasons, there have been instances in the last few days that have left me more inspired than ever to turn this little blog into a homage to my personal endeavors within the fashion world and to attempt to break into the magazine industry once and for all.

Firstly, I attended the Company magazine blogging forum on Monday, where I was met with a glass of bubbly and a sea of bloggers all trying to better themselves and their space on the net. The idea of the event was to give myself and fellow bloggers an inside scoop on how to make the most of your blog and how to get noticed, along with how to promote yourself without annoying everyone along the way. The panel consistent of Victoria White - the editor of Company, Susie Lau aka Susie Bubble, Rhiannon Ashlee from Fashion Rocks My Socks, and top dogs from Boohoo, Hand Picked Media and Oh My Love.

The talk itself made me really think about this blog and what I was actually writing about. Their main point was that you have to love what you're writing about, otherwise it will turn into a chore, and that you should never compare yourself to other bloggers that may be more successful, or prettier, richer than you are. This hit home to me, as recently I feel this blog started to turn into what I thought I should write about, rather than what I am actually being inspired by.   

Susie Bubble was a huge inspiration, unfortunately I didn't get to chat with her because she was completely surrounded for the whole evening. Her attitude towards her blog and personal style was such an eye opener, kind of that 'this is what I like, if you like it, good. If not, ah well.' type vibe that I really respect. 

It got me thinking about ways I can use this blog as a tool to get where I want to go in life. Okay, so I might not be able to jump straight into being a fashion director at Vogue straight out of uni, so let's get my head out of the clouds and come back down to reality for a while. This space is just what I need to fulfill the need to be surrounded by fashion, whether I get the chance to work in it right now or not, so why not embrace it?

Susie if you ever read this, thank you. You're amazing Vitamin Water campaign is on a billboard just by my flat, so every time I walk home, I see your lovely face and it reminds me of where I want to be. (Not necessarily dressed as a flower on a poser but you know what I mean!)

Secondly, and back to the beginning of this post - gosh that was a large tangent to go off on - I came across this absolutely beautiful editorial in So It Goes. Well I actually saw it here, and I just love it.

It features Felicity Jones, an actress who I've actually not heard of, but IMDB assures me that she is well known for 'Like Crazy' and 'Page Eight' among other great titles. Maybe it was her angelic face that pulled me in? Or the soft, almost magically style of photography? Either way, it is stunning.

Unfortunately I couldn't find out where the clothes were all from, but I love the soft androgyny of the styling. Simple garments, delicate jewellery and chunky knit tick all the boxes for me, and great inspiration for Autumn. My favourite outfit has to be the suit jacket, white shirt, tie and wide brimmed hat. Such a beautiful compilation and use of monochrome in a way that still manages to exude femininity. 

Photographer - Eliot Lee Hazel. Model - Felicity Jones. Stylist, Sissy Sainte-Marie.

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"YOU GOTTA WEAR THE RIGHT PAIR OF TROUSERS IF YOU'RE GONNA BE A ROCKSTAR."

I don't think I actually own a proper pair of trousers that aren't the standard black work trousers. I was looking on Nasty Gal earlier and came across some Houndstooth pants and fell in love! That got me searching so I've put a little collection together of trousers I have scouted - and are now on the ever growing list of wants. I guess I used to associate trousers with women, you know, the older, working lady. But actually, they are perfectly acceptable for any age, although I guess I am older now... and working. Ergh.  Plus they instantly make you look smart and sexy at the same time. WIN.
The line up...

L-R: 1&2 - Urban Outfitters, 3 - Nasty Gal, 4 -  Ebay, 5 - Romwe, 6 - Topshop, 7 - Nasty Gal

They're so pretty. I really want to vamp up my style if I'm honest. I don't think I have any particular style, I suppose I just wear what I like which is good I guess, but I want to be seen as having a signature look. I have decided I'm going on a entire re-do of myself. A re-invention if you wish. Starting with hitting the gym - and actually going - eating healthily, and spending more time on my appearance. I think I've got a bit lazy.
It's time.
So one of the things I'll be adding to the new look is a decent pair of trousers. Or three.
I also want to wear more heels - in the day time. Oooh. Maybe even wear both at the same time if I'm really daring.

Do you wear trousers? Or are you more of a leggings girl like me? Has anyone been makeover-ing themselves since the new year?

Disclaimer - images taken from corresponding websites. I was not asked to make this post by any of the brands. I just liked them :)
Quote in title - Chris Martin.

Golden spirit

Images found on imageamplified.com

How amazing was the closing ceremony of the Olympics?! I thought it was absolutely fantastic. I loved the celebration of fashion section, where we saw the like of Britain's top of the top models, strutting their stuff along the catwalk through the mammoth stadium. Vogue (of course) has done this fantastic shoot of all the models in their most amazing gowns, shot by Nick Knight, this shoot is nothing less than Vogue's outstanding standard.
I have to say, as lavish as they all are, my favourite has to be the Victoria Beckham worn by Georgia May Jagger. It is something I would 100% consider wearing out on the town or for my next birthday. The others are absolutely incredible though, don't get me wrong, I'm just saying this is one I would actually feel comfortable to wear out. Although saying that, I would love to slip into one of those gowns, even if only for an hour, just to feel like a princess!
Metallic is such a wonderful trend at the moment, and gold is one of those colours, where if worn right, can make you look and feel expensive and classic. Yet if done wrong you could resemble more of an MC Hammer than a goddess. And nobody wants that.

I'm in the process of moving house at the moment, so things are a little all over the place. I apologise in advance if my posting isn't quite as regular.

Other news... hmmm.. I've started on my 'homework' for uni which is pretty much a report on what I want to do for my final project - which is make a magazine - so I've been researching like a crazy woman trying to decide which angle I want to go down. I'm so excited to start actually making it as it's been a passion of mine for a few years now. The first two years have been more of 'a bit of everything', but now, in my third year, it's time to focus in on what it is I want to do. So fingers crossed it translates well out of my head and onto that gorgeous glossy book.

I hope you're having a lovely week. Happy Thursday!

Ps.. Check out my Tumblr for more editorial inspiration x

Enchanted creature

Pleather shift dress - Primark. Feather necklace - Topshop. Eyelashes - Topshop. Earrings/Nose ring - Model's own.

Dress - Rare. Boots - Internationale. Headband made from Fabric scraps from Fabric Land. Eyelashes - Topshop.

Snake print tee in Purple, Gold and Orange - Made by me MissV. Louise. Leggins - Primark. Heels - Office.

All photography and styling has been done by me. Please do not take without permission.

This is a photo shoot I did a little while back for my uni project. My model was absolutely fantastic - Sharmilla - so many thanks to you! She's off to China for a year to teach, so best of luck, my camera and I will miss you.
Not much has been going on really, most of my friends are at work in the week so because I'm just temping over Summer I've been really bored. So apologies for not having anything overly exciting to say!
If you like my photos please let me know, I'm looking to do some more fashion shoots some also, so if you think you have a good look and would be around Bristol from September do give me a shout!
Have a little cheeky click on the follow button too? Thanks ;) x

Also, as you may have seen from the image caption, the snake tee's have been made by me. I have another 10 for sale that I will be putting up here soon, so stay tuned if you're interested.
Happy Monday xx