Monday 31 December 2012

What does 2013 hold

Unlike most I'm spending tonight, on the sofa, watching the numerous New Year shows on television. I haven't ever been a big New Year fan, I usually follow the crowd. Due to a lack of organisation my plans seemed to crumble at the last minute, and here I am now, with some toffee popcorn and Graham Norton.

So reflecting back on 2012, it's not been over eventful . I've done a lot, visited exhibitions, spent a lot. 2013 however, has a lot in store for me inevitably. Come May my university exams finish, come July I graduate, and technically become a real adult, with real responsibilities.

With this in mind, my next few months involve some hard work with my head in books, and whispering at the library. Real job hunting, and then who knows. But with all this in mind, it would be rude not to make some plans. Not so much resolutions, but aims. So here they are;

* I want to own a pair of Louboutins. I have the book, visited the exhibition and have the poster proudly on my wall. Plus, I don't think there will be anything more perfect than, a red sole taking a step onto the stage come graduation day in July.

* To own a Celine bag. Okay so this is pretty out there. As well as chipping away at worked up debts each month, and saving money for my New York trip next December, money will be tight. But a Celine bag is next on my wanted list.

* A summer holiday. Maybe even a few weeks travelling. Who knows, but I missed out on a holiday in 2012, and don't think I should do the same in 2013.

* A job. Something I'd like to get upon graduating. The Louboutins will obviously come in handy for interviews too.

So these aims are pretty materialistic. But apart from the standard join the gym, and cut down my sugar intake, I'm pretty happy with my life. So much so, I don't think I need to make any huge changes to have a great 2013.

Without a doubt you'll have some resolutions, I'd love to hear them. But for the mean time, Happy New Year.

Saturday 22 December 2012

The Grinch That Stole Christmas

I don't mean the film, but this extremely festive Olympia Le-Tan clutch. You maybe digging deep in your pockets to afford the £955 price tag. But it certainly will bring some festive spirit to your outfit this holidays.

Available at NET-A-PORTER.COM

 

Thursday 20 December 2012

Top Five Christmas Films

With being stuck in Manchester right until Christmas Eve, I have found myself watching Christmas films left right and centre, just to keep my festive spirits high. So here I've rounded up my top five...

Miracle on 34th Street

" We invite you to ask yourself this one simple question: Do you believe in Santa Claus?"

Miracle on 34th Street, was a childhood favourite. And that hasn't changed now I'm 21. There's something slightly magical, that gives me tummy butterflies every time I watch.

New Years Eve

"Some people swear there's no beauty left in the world, no magic. Then how do you explain the entire world coming together on one night to celebrate the hope of a new year?"

Okay, so this isn't technically a Christmas film. Compared to Christmas, I'm not really a New Years fan. But this film changed everything. I challenge anybody not to cry with joy at the end. I'm spending New Year 2013, in New York and hope I get a tiny bit of the magic shown in this film.

Love Actually

"When the planes hit the Twin Towers, as far as I know, none of the phone calls on board were messages of hate or revenge - they were messages of love. If you look for it, I've got a sneaking suspicion.. Love actually is all around."

Not only is this a favourite Christmas film. But a favourite overall film. I never tire of watching, so much my DVD has scratched, and stopped playing at parts. Like New Years Eve, the film follows different people's lives who all somehow connect. Even though I love all the story's, part of me is just nosey and likes to see others lives.

It's a Wonderful Life

"Every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings"

Full of Christmas cheer. A perfect family watch, that will defiantly get everyone being thankful. As Carrie Bradshaw would say, An oldie, but a goodie.

Elf
" The best way to spread Christmas cheer, is singing loud for all to hear"

Elf really is full of Christmas giggles and joy. I don't quite think there's a film which makes you feel more festive.

The best way to watch them is with a big mug of hot chocolate, and cosy pyjamas. Do you have a favourite? What is it?

 

Wednesday 19 December 2012

Farewell Gossip Girl

It's been common knowledge for quite some time now that Gossip Girl would draw to an end this season. Here in the UK this happened tonight.

I won't pretend I didn't shed a tear, or squeal with glee at times. But being a Gossip Girl fan, from that very moment Serena entered Grand Central, I couldn't have asked for more.

I'd be lying if I said Gossip Girl was just a weekly programme I tuned into. Blair and Serena can influence an outfit of mine, or I even find myself asking for Blair's exact hair colour. This influence from the teen drama will certainly be missed. I found myself on first moving to university, making friends with similar fans. My house religiously sit down together to watch. I'd quite honestly argue Gossip Girl, has been the Sex and the City of my generation.

I don't want this to be a spoiler for anybody who isn't quite up to date. However what was Serena thinking with that dress? And could Eleanor pull some strings for my dress, when the time comes? The clever reveal of Gossip Girl, and the appearances of friends and enemies. New and old, we're certainly my favourite bits. Rachel Bilson and Kirsten Bell, really did make me laugh.

However I think it's times stopped wishing to be Mrs.Bass. What did you think if it all? And yes, I did think it was Darota all along....

 

Tuesday 18 December 2012

What's been going on....

I've shown Abigail's Party a little but of a cold shoulder recently. End of year deadlines piled on top of me, as well as end of term fun. But here's a little round up of what I've been up to the last few weeks...



 I'm extremely excited to return home for Christmas. Even the Christmas Eve drive, is making me giddy. I've managed to finish all my present buying early, and now looking forward to grabbing some bargains in the sales.



Tuesday 4 December 2012

Bey does Body Con

After a recent Instagram spree, I came across these rather hot pictures of Beyonce.

I couldn't help but notice that all though her dress is rather beautiful, it's extremely similar to what I've seen on the high street. Jersey body con dresses seem to be everywhere. ASOS have a whole range like below for as little as £30. I bet Bey had wished she'd known that. If you fancy spending a little more, head to Topshop for this embellished number. Not only are these dresses great for girls nights out, but smart enough for day time occasions. Team it with a simple necklace and voila a la Bey. Who wouldn't want to be like her?

ASOS £30



Topshop £95
 

Thursday 29 November 2012

If money was no object...

I'd be getting my mitts on this Preen dress from matches.com. Not only is the print beautiful, but it would take me right through to spring/summer and back again. I'm hoping someone on the high street picks up on this dress, and sells for a more purse friendly price or maybe I should just start saving.

 

Saturday 24 November 2012

Christmas is coming...

And if like me you may be wondering what to get that best friend of yours. Well here is a few presents which are sure to make anyone smile...






Grace by Grace Coddington -  It`s a Wonderful Life Anniversary Edition DVD – Reindeer Names Scarf by Emma Cook for Topshop – Markus Lupfer for Whistles Make Up Bag -  Red Glitter Converse from Schuh -  River Island Orange Cord Necklace – Marc by Marc Jacobs USB Key Fob – Diane Von Furstenberg Earphones – Marc by Marc Jacobs Pink Ipad  Cover -  Kate Moss Book – Daisy Collection by Daisy Jewelery

Quite a few of these are even on my Christmas wish list. Including Grace Coddington`s Memoirs book, the Marc by Marc Jacobs Ipad cover. The Emma Cook collection at Topshop is also fantastic. I have already picked up the deer pyjamas, and have my eye on the fairy light dress for the festive season. It`s a Wonderful life, will be the perfect Boxing day film. Markus Lupfers collection for Whistles is amazing, plenty of pieces that can be picked up as gifts including a cute wool dog jumper. I`ve been eyeing up the scarfs too.

Have you started your Christmas shopping? If so what have you got so far? Or even better what are you wishing for?

Monday 12 November 2012

Costume, Cakes and Theatre

I recently was lucky to be treated by my mum to a London day out. We started with a visit to the V&A, to see the Hollywood Costume exhibition . This was great fun, seeing pretty much all my favourite costumes, including the Titanic dress worn by Rose, Audrey Hepburn's Givenchy LBD from Breakfast at Tiffanys and a personal favourite, the real ruby slippers from the Wizard of Oz. Its a great day out if you get a chance to visit before it closes in January.

Maybe the most fun part of the day was the Pret a Portea at The Berkeley Hotel. This tea I've been dreaming of, I tried to book to go back in May however weekends were booked up till August. So hook early. All the cakes are based on this seasons catwalks, such as a sell out Fendi boot biscuit and a YSL sponge cake. And to top it off served on Paul Smith china.

The final treat of the day was to watch Matilda, at the Cambridge theatre seven dials near Covent Garden. A must see if you get a chance. Tim Michin's music is genius.

The theatre is always a fun thing to do and something my mum and I enjoy doing together. And with the Spice Girl musical and The Bodyguard opening soon they'll be plenty more to see.

 

Kenzo

My first thoughts when thinking about this brands, is a bright coloured dress I had as a young girl. Now, however I can't help but think of the green sweater seen all over fashion weeks.

 

I believe the jumper has sold out a few times on net-a-porter, but can imagine it will be restocked pretty soon.

It could be argued that Kenzo are trying to remarket themselves with a higher fashion appeal. The sweaters are instantly wearable, and so versatile. And rather purse string friendly, with consideration of the designer name. If you can't manage to get hold of a sweater. It may be worth checking out the Kenzo, and Vans collaboration, now available at Browns, South Molton Street, or Browns online. With the Vans being more accessible, Kenzo are opening up to a wider audience. Rather than just the fashion hierarchy. Cleaver Kenzo, now where can I get a sweater?

 

The Pink Coat

Ever sine seeing the Celine pink coat on the runway earlier on this season, I have become slightly obsessed with finding my own perfect version.

Sadly my student loan doesn't stretch to Celine budget. Nor does it really stretch to the MSGM pink lace covered bomber, not the J Crew wool-blend boucle at £530.

 

MSGM Black Lace Covered Pink Bomber Coat £535-J.Crew Wool-blend boucle coat £530
At a slightly lower price, I maybe able to get my mitts on one of these. Topshop have done a great version, in what I would call a perfect pink. At £95, and for us lucky students an extra 10% off , a classic shape which will last season after season, I think it may be an investment. Surprisingly Marks and Spencer, created two must have versions. The first was a steal at £85, however the fash pack have snapped it up and it has sold out online. I keep hoping one will appear in store. But no luck so far. However the autograph version which started at £110, has been reduced to £88 since the previous must have has sold out. A paler pink however, but may be a safer choice as the neutral colour may go with more. At the minute my heart is set on the Topshop version, which next payday is ready for. How do you feel about this coat trend? Is it worth the investment?

M&S Autograph coat with wool £88 - Topshop single breasted boyfriend coat £95
 

 

Wednesday 31 October 2012

What's been going on...

It would be fair to say I've neglected blogging for a little while. The dark and cold nights, uni assignments and lusting after Christmas has taken over.

Here's a quick summary of what I've been up to

A winter wardrobe sort out
A visit to Bubbledogs London, I recommend
The Chanel, Little Black Jacket exhibition
 

Trying to keep warm and autumn walks
Finally, work on my final year business project. Bouton, follow us on twitter @boutonuk
 

Friday 12 October 2012

Neon brights with JW Anderson for Topshop

This was my first daywear of the skirt. I paired it with my Acne look a like neon jumper from H&M. Apart from every bit of fluff sticking to anything I touched, I quite enjoyed wearing this outfit. I first wore the skirt for a night out with a simple grey tee, but I love how this jumper keeps it all bright and vibrant, it's definitely a look I'll be repeating. How have you worn your JW Anderson pieces for Topshop?

Thursday 4 October 2012

Anna Dello Russo for H&M : What I bought

Unlike the other collaborations I've attended, I wasn't up at the crack of dawn and queuing with all the other fashionistas. I didn't even attempt to buy online, instead I casually strolled into Manchester city centre at around 2pm after my lectures, which I had sacrificed my early wake up for.

To my surprise there was plenty left. The only pieces missing were the suitcase trolley and vanity case. The member of staff said that they only had six and all went in the first group of customers. She also said they weren't expecting the collection to sell out. This I found quite strange especially after all the marketing such as the fashion shower video that went into it. Plus the past success of H&M collabs would suggest different.

I didn't as such go with something in mind. However when I saw this necklace I knew it had to be mine. It was the last left, not not OTT like some of the collection.


I love the packaging, it really does make you feel like your buying a limited piece. Not just a necklace from H&M. The carrier bags were also to die For. So much so I've hung mine on my wall. The Anna Dello Russo box has joined, my Lavin for H&M and Marni for H&M boxes, and without a doubt the collaboration boxes will grow.

Did you manage to get your hands on anything?

Sunday 30 September 2012

Unidays

Earlier in the month I posted about back to uni bedrooms. I've spent the past few weeks perfecting mine, and am finally happy to share it with you.

As I said before, the bed tends to always be a main feature, and of tens the bedding is the only colour added to the room. This bedding I got from Ikea, it's extremely girly with its flower pattern and has a slight vintage feel. My Love cushions, are simply two pillows, the cases I picked up from Not on the HighStreet. The other cushion is a slight favourite, which I got from the H&M, Versace collaboration last year. Everybody always comments how fun it is.

I love pictures, so as you can see my walls are pretty much full of them. I love the Urban Outfitters regency frames, not only are they always on offer burn instantly brighten up a wall. They can also be used as a normal frame, however my lack of available surfaces makes having them on the wall perfect.

Prints have become some what an obsession of mine, and a small collection has started to arise. The girl with the hats is taken from a children's book. I got this print from the V&A, the girls face makes me smile as without a doubt I'd have the same expression if I was faced with a room of hats. Printed quotes are a great picture to frame. One was a gift for my 21st another I picked up from Up market in London, they can also be bought here. The smaller two prints, I got from Pintrest. I simply saved the images, printed them, framed them. A real cheap and effective way of making prints.

Storeage is always a major problem for me. I've invested in what I'm calling the clothes tent. At only £20 from Ikea, it fits quite a lot. Also looks a lot neater than a clothes rail.

It's taken me nearly a whole month to get my room how I wanted it. Take time and you'll get it perfect. What have you done to yours? Any tips of your own?

Manchester Rugby Varsity

I've been a little neglectful to the blog this month. Coming back to uni has taken over, freshers came and went and all I'm left with is a sore throat, blocked nose and a dent in the bank account. If you follow me on Twitter you would have seen I tweeted compulsively about a certain event, #varsity.

A favourite event of mine which happens every year is the Rugby Varsity, Manchester Uni vs Manchester Met. Do to many alliances I obviously support Man Met. This year was extra special though. Not only is it my final year at uni, so therefore the last time I will most likely watch,but also my boyfriends last game for the team as captain, and many of my friends last Varsity game.

The team of lads that went out were a particularly strong side, that we thought had no chance of loosing. Unfortunately we were wrong and the game went from us scoring the first try of the match, to a early finish, streakers and disappointment.

Spirits couldn't be dampened and post match celebrations carried on in style. I always get an outfit especially for this event, rather sad I know. This year I picked up a dress I had been eyeing up in the ASOS sale for a while. Though rather summery, I dressed it up with neon H&M heels to give it more of an evening feel. I plan next summer to dress it with flat sandals, for a more day to day wear. It's definitely a dress perfect for occasions, and being 100% silk was a sale bargain.

Tuesday 11 September 2012

Anna Dello Russo for H&M

It seems this may be the year for high street collaborations. I am already eagerly awaiting Friday for JW Anderson for Topshop as mentioned here. But now pictures have emerged for what could be the glitzyest collab yet. Anna Dello Russo for H&M.

I always love the H&M collabs, so well thought of and organised when you arrive at the store, and they never fail to excite me. And this one seems no different.For those who don`t  know Anna Dello Russo is Vogue Japans Editor at Large, and is seen at every fashion week looking nothing but fabulous. Known for being at the for front of fashion and always being top of her game when it comes to accessorizing, its no wonder H&M have snapped her up.



The collaboration hits stores October 4th, which lucky for me is payday. The images which I have collected from Vogue seem to show a strong theme of Gold and Turquoise, which quite honestly looks beautiful. Every piece shows some part of Anna Dello Russo`s style, which what I feel makes the collection so great and lust worthy.





All though I`m not huge on jewellery, I plan to pick up a few pieces. I love the suitcase collection which includes a cute vanity bag, I think this may be a must for me. The earrings  from this collection, are easy to wear and fit perfectly in with this seasons trends of chandelier earrings. I also have my eye on the clutch featured in the campaign image. Though I reckon this piece may be flying off the shelf. Finally, I think it would be wrong to not try get hold of a pair of sunglasses, with them being Annas signature style piece and absolutely gorgeous they are a perfect piece to show you`ve been a part of this collection. Looks like it will be another early start, and elbows at the ready come October 4th.