ETQTE BBY

Barbie gets arty

2012-01-30T11:49:00.000-08:00

Jocelyne Grivaud is a French artist who has taken inspiration from the classic Barbie as a new art muse. Transforming the doll into interpretations of classic and renowned art pieces below:

Leonardo Da Vinci - 'Mona Lisa'

Andy Warhol - 'Marilyn'

Pablo Picasso - 'Le portrait de Dora Maar'

Man Ray - 'Le Violon d’Ingres'

Rene Magritte - 'Eternal Evidence'

Venus de Milo

You can see the full collection here.

Barbie seems to be having a re-invention lately, with this collection of snaps from Stylist magazine showing past and present stars being immortalised into doll form.

Behaviour of an inner genius, clearly.

2012-01-24T23:32:00.000-08:00

I have just performed my first ever midnight feast. Well, more like late night gorge considering its 6:45 in the morning and I haven't been able to sleep yet. WOW thats early. Makes me feel a bit sick considering its actually breakfast time so what I just ate is really my first meal of the day. For some reason, I was craving cheese. again. (I actually do think i have a medical problem concerning this, a mild addiction, so please dont laugh. And please dont laugh again at the word 'mild' in that context.) So naturally I made a treat plate of cheese and crackers, followed by cereal. I do realise now that if I have insomnia, helpings of dairy and sugar won't exactly help the condition, but sleep deprivation is a form of torture that can lead to madness so I may very well be mad. Or have cravings from being pregnant. (I'm not pregnant.)

I do actually feel really really American right now. I always thought it was a really American thing to get up in the middle of the night and get a 'snack'. Or a 'glass of milk, mom, I can't sleep.' Preferably in plaid pyjama pants and thick white socks. WHY they wear socks to bed all the time and why they are always so god damn white I will never know. I don't actually know one person that would have midnight gorges in the UK. Probably because if they are eating at 5am its because they are still drunk off their faces, or maybe just because it makes NO sense to do. You have just brushed your teeth for god's sake. And the house will wake up. And its weird. What most normal people do it watch Family Guy on their laptop, stalk facebook or decide to ipod it out until their muscles weaken and they lapse into sweet sweet dreamy time. Some - and here is where I found my niche - Some go on twitter. Now, I like to think of myself as a pretty modern layydayy but I am still so shit at twitter. I just don't get it. Wtf is the need to hashtag a sentence, or rather a sentence merged into one word - yeah because society doesn't rush what they say as it is. BUT, I am getting better, I dabble a bit I just still feel a bit of a fool doing it because it seems to me twitter is for celebrities of people in general that have interesting comments to broadcast. Twitter is the perfect choice for insomnia though because no matter how early or late it is, someone somewhere will be awake and tweeting shit for us to read. So for this reason, I applaud you twitter.

It is strange and difficult to explain but when I am in restless states like this my mind buzzes with thoughts which are often quite frustrating. I suppose it is not a new cliche that we become at our most creative and imaginative late at night when it is most inconvenient, and this is definitely true of me. Perhaps it is because our brain is ready to rest and let the dreams in our mind take over, but we are not ready for sleep yet so it happens a little prematurely. I think this is fun though - the mind always seems fun, brain is the boring one, blatantly the teachers pet. Mind is so the giggly reckless one that rides on motorbikes with boys and smokes long cigarettes whilst Brain is all prude and sensible. Stupid Brain. Anyway. This is true of me and I get a narrator in my head vocalising what I'm doing and making witty retorts to stupid comments people have made to me during the day. It rather feels sometimes like im in a movie of my own head, and the thoughts dont go away unless I write them down. I attempted to scribble them in a notepad in a romanticised quill-and-parchment way but then I thought it easier to type it here. It is a little sad really, but oh well, shut up, its 7am, i'm tired. I remember what my uni tutor said to me the other week actually when I tried to explain something vocally, messily, to no avail:"Elle, no. We write better with a keyboard and screen in front of us." AH, yes, of course. So thats where Shakespeare, Dickens, Keats, even JK sodding Rowling went wrong with their success, I get ittttt.

I was thinking today though about the rate in which technology is advancing so that I don't even know if blogs are relevant anymore. I remember in 2007 when blogs were sooooo trendy and niche. Now everyone has one, (I am a prime example), and I've even been hesitant to carry it on anymore because I thought having a blog would heighten my chances of making me internet famous so that I'd be oh so cool and have a personal photographer follow me round and take "spontaneous" pictures of my sexy cool outfit.... and to cut to the chase, it hasn't. I have noticed the development in social networking and blogging though and basically it seems to me that really we have become so amazingly lazy as a society that the only blogs that people are interested in anymore are picture tumblrs (yes i have one and i love it), and video diaries, also known as vlogs, both of which we don't have to read. (Of course, this is an ironic statement to read because if you have read this much of my post, you are not lazy at all but very patience, and lovely, so cheers.) The money is in the visuals, which doesn't necessarily bode well for a wannabe writer like me, so I am thinking of changing my format to just rely on picturesss and thingssssss. I am going to turn into a mad collector old woman with shit loads of random knick-knacks that just 'looked' nice, and I think it will be amazing. I am starting to write mush now rather than rambles of a creative breakthrough which tells me that im finally ready to sleep yayyyyyy... just as the rest of my house has got up to have a shower. Napping is productive isn't it? So maybe my day will be alright after all...

Pumpkin' Hell!

2011-10-31T07:19:00.000-07:00

I came across this artist known as Ray, who usually makes sculptures out of sand, but has made a collection out of pumpkins in seasonal themes.

They are INCREDIBLE! To think I usually just cut some triangle eyes and a jagged mouth...

He has loads and I couldn't really select only one or two so here are my favourite 7.

View the whole collection here.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T06:31:00.000-07:00

It is one of best days of the year where we get to dress up like absolute mad people whilst scoffing sweets, (well maybe 10 years ago), drinking ferociously, and releasing our inner alter egos.

I had actually decided on my costume before I saw this video, but I felt I should have drawn more inspiration from it because it is genius. To a point. To be honest I don't really think random nurses and french maids are fear-inducing, but slutting it up is definitely acceptable with an appropriate character, dayummm straight.

This year, my alter ego was a super villain. I had originally set my mind on a classic yet crazy zombie bride but I couldn't find a look to my desire. Then, I dyed my hair bright red on a moment of spontaneity and thought maybe to embrace this look as part of fright night instead and so went as.... Poison Ivy! (That's the Batman character not the plant...) Hot and venomous.

I realised I went as a superhero last year (Wonder-Woman, with some sort of dead twist), and Amy Winehouse the year before, for the sheer reason I got to wear an awesome wig and chav clothes - Just as well though, as that choice of character would probably be out of taste now. I have no memory what I went as before this apart from the ages of 14- 16 where I went as various stages of witchery.

There are various interpretations of Poison Ivy , but the general jist is red hair, green clothes, and some bad ass make up. The latter was my focal point of choice and generally the attraction. That and the fact she kills men with her lips. How. Damn. Cool.

Uma Thurman as Poison Ivy:

ME as Poison Ivy:

And of course the make-up!:

I have a personal love for women in super-heroic (or villainous) roles, its something to do with balance of power, I find it very empowering and sexy. What I liked about my costume choice this year was that normally for Halloween, a character like Catwoman is done a lot, P.I. not so much. Or so I thought.

FUCKING KIM KARDASHIAN:

I found this the day after my Halloween party, safe to say it was annoying to see how the slutty Kim has to steal it yet again, especially when her outfit is clearly better than mine, but she is not a poor student and probably also just gets someone to go make her an costume. Just goes to show I'm so fabulously on-trend ;) (arrogance came free with the plant)

Have a great day and a spooky night tonight guys and gals, get creative because there isn't many opportunities to do so in the world nowadays. Unless you're Lady Gaga or Daphne Guinness of course.

Positive thinking

2011-10-26T10:07:00.000-07:00

Everybody needs a wake up call:

I think if ever there was a song to make a sick person better again, this may just be it.

Its also officially two months until Boxing Day (eeeek)...

Happily ever after

2011-10-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

Sooooooooooooooo... I am sick.

I have just had me a great weekend in Liverpool seeing some of the gals but returning now, I have realised there is something in the Northern air, and I am ill.

When I am sick there is only one thing I like to watch to make me feel better, and it begins with a D and ends with a Y.

DIIIIIISSSSSSNNNNNEEEEEEYYYYYYYYYYYYY AHHHHHHHHHH!!

I cuddle up with cup of tea and homemade soup, and stick on a princess story.

Thanks to sheer luck (or my amazing physic powers) I went on a spending spree via Amazon a few weeks ago and bought me a stash of my favourites:

Okay so Singin' In The Rain isn't technically a disney cartoon, but the feel good factor and age of innocence remains all the same. The start of a glorious collection I hope!

There is just something about being a princess that delivers my sickly soul to a higher dreamy power. I am rediscovering my feminine roots. I have always been a bit of a fantasist but not really in the lovey-dovey-happily-ever-after way but I DON'T CARE. DISNEY IS FUCKING AMAZING. Note my new favourite by the way: Tangled. If you haven't seen it, see it. FOR YOUR OWN SAKE. I want her hair, her prince, her voice.... clearly I have 21st century working woman priorities.

Speaking of Disney though, I have got to show you this video from one my favourite youtube bitches Jenna Marbles. She has upset me slightly here though by exclaiming her distain for my beloved Disney, but she does speak some sense. I thought I was the only one who tried to sing to birds from my room in the hope they would suddenly come in and make clothes for me. Or one day I would I just grow up (to the grand old age of 18...) and marry some handsome rich prince that I bumped into one day. Or that old ugly people are devil spawn.

But number 1 rant: IT IS SO TRUE - WHAT IS WITH DISNEY PRINCESS'S HAIR? IT'S TOO NICE! (not to mention eyes)

'Disney gave me completely unrealistic hair expectations. Rapunzel? Those are fucking extensions!'

A rose between two thorns?

2011-10-12T15:11:00.000-07:00

Suprise, suprise, I was watching The Only Way is Essex this evening, a guilty pleasure of mine and most others my age, I have realised just how big a phenomemon location reality has become. Or moreover, reality tv that documents a lifestye. Essex, Chelsea, and now rumours of some sort of Hipster series with a posse in the east end of Dalston.

Some people disregard shows like TOWIE as fuel for the airheads, which for the most part, can probably be agreed. It is hardly hard-hitting and provoking. In contrast; it creates a means of escape into a world we are not familiar with. Admit it or not but we are fond of the show because we relish the resulting sense of self-righteousness. We cringe at the thought of engaging in acts they do; we feel like better individuals, whilst having a laugh.

I am now in my third year of university and brainstorming project topics for my final project. I wanted to write about lifestyle and social practices and I got thinking about our new obsessions with these types of programmes. What we think about these modern cliques, and in particular, what are our attitudes to class. Never before have I seen extreme ends of the social spectrum adored and observed with such scrutiny and delight. Whereas both the circles of Essex and Chelsea are rich, vain and clearly enjoy the finer things in life, they are so distinctively different; one is a glamourised chav town and the other a nauseating ego city. Because of the new found attention both places have attracted, it is no suprise that hoards of Essex-ites and West London sloanes have been popping up more frequently. Is this intentional? Are we so fed up of an unattainable celebrity culture that our new celebrities have become ourselves - and if so, is that necessarily a bad thing? It is fair to admit people have always wanted to better themselves but such obsession with class elevation has not been so rife since the Jane Austen era. In our thouroughly modern society, we may in fact be resorting right back to the most modest of eras.

However tonights episode stuck out for me because it did, dare i say it, seem to give off some inkling of a moral message. Forgive me for making such a generalisation, (though to be honest generalisations are exactly what shows like TOWIE are created to do,) but it is safe to say the perception of the Essex gals are: look fake and act stupid. There is no shortage of faux breasts and hair pieces that probably once belonged to a little Indian girl, but it seems it is not enough for them. One character Chloe, tells a friend how she wants to invest in bum implants. Young, skinny, ‘attractive’, and to be honest not actually as dim as many of her peers, she complains she is “nearly 30, not married, not engaged, no bum.. nothing”. Of course I feel a fool for not categorising those altogether before, naturally. Another character, Gemma, goes to the hairdressers admitting “I’m going blonde, I just can’t handle the brown”, for it is true, being brunette is a difficult way of life. Nevertheless the show proved to be almost emotive when she broke down in tears over her weight problem. Admitting she found social situations hard because of the fear of bitching she would endure should she be seen eating a burger, it seems the lifestyles of this new breed of the rich and famous aren’t so polished after all.

Perhaps this humanised, relatable behaviour is the reason for the popularity growth in pseudo-reality shows like this, or perhaps it is because as humans we mentally prosper with gossip. This is the next stop on from soap opera, but soap opera it essentially remains so can we really use them as a basis of our own lifestyles? It makes me ponder on the future, and this is what I hope to explore these next few months.

Aged

2011-10-09T16:18:00.000-07:00

I found some old passport pictures whilst turning my room upside down trying to look for my keys 5 minutes after I should have left the house. I never seem to have passport pictures when I need them, yet I found the last remaining ones from years gone by:

Aged 14, 16, 18, 19

Can't decide whether I have changed a lot or not at all. My face hasn't really aged? And my nose is more monkey-like than ever. One thing that is for certain though is that hindsight is a wonderful thing. Peroxide though, is perhaps not.

Anyway its got my looking at old pictures of the stars now, on a larger scale of course, ( my 4 years is hardly the longest time)

Some look like a natural progression of beauty (*cough*miranda*cough) whilst others make me soooo intensely intrigued as to the power of The Hollywood Effect. I've had discussions with many girls before about what they think they would look like with that sort of treatment, and how astonishing it is now, the extent of vanity surgery.

It doesn't just stop there though: I recently went to an exhibition at the Nation Portrait Gallery called Glamour Of The Gods, (from the John Kobal Foundation), which displayed old photo collections of every possible Hollywood legend from the last 100 years. I never thought it before but photos back then were airbrushed too! I am such a romantic and so I have always just looked upon that age as a flawless era - watched countless Hepburn films, fawned over Brando, obsessed over Vivien Leigh and it was all a lie. Reassuring though I guess, that they were actually human too, but it kind of killed my dreams a bit, none of it seemed as natural and sacred anymore. Check out an original photo here ready for retouching, (which they did by hand.)

Custospiking

2011-10-04T11:37:00.000-07:00

Remember?:

I finally got them! Little arrivals like this create such perks in mood, I think its a girl thing. I waited a longggg time for these beauties to be available again, (after much searching the net and every store), so why not carry on the theme?:

I got bored of the lack of there being any decently sized black bags on the market. I was browsing around for some cool studded bags but all new ones seem to be priced ridiculously, not to mention the fact they all look the same. Since my 'genteel punk' phase (as I like to call it) isn't dying, I decided to make my own.

So here is my DIY for the day - black bucket drawstring bag, re-structured and hand-studded. Before and after:

Beginning of the end

2011-10-03T15:26:00.000-07:00

As of today, I am officially in my final year of university. At the tender age of 20, I should (hopefully) have a degree. And given a few months, some form of paid or unpaid (probably the latter) employment. PROPER employment, all grown up and everything...

Being a soon-to-be graduate, my room will most probably look like this for the coming months:

If I'm doing it right of course...

Obsession

2011-09-25T15:31:00.000-07:00

Is dangerous. I am going through my phases still; I recently did a dip-dye style treatment on my hair, ah my old friend bleach it had been too long. My friend told me I should pick up some pink food colouring for my ends as a temporary way to see my pining obsession for pink hair in true form. Apparently it works a semi-permanent charm.

Feeling so colourful for the end of spring really.

My other obsession at the moment is Miss Lana Del Ray. The beautiful sugar-sweet songstress is quickly becoming one of my favourites at the moment, check out her tunes 'Video Games', 'Blue Jeans', and 'Kinda Outta Luck', with random budget videos featuring cartoon snippets and scenes of golden hollywood greats. She is so enchanting, and check out those lips. They rival mine:

Tell me about it, Stud.

2011-09-03T11:59:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed a relaxing day of watching Pretty Little Liars whilst making some shorts.

Going through a bit of a phase where I take everything I own, cut it up, and fill it with studs. I feel like a new baby finding anything and everything to put in their mouths....

ON POINT

2011-09-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

I DISCOVERED SOMETHING.

This is actually a little late out of date but due to copyright reasons I had to wait until now. I bought the latest edition of LOVE magazine, (issue 6), and came across an underwater shoot entitled 'What Lies Beneath'.

What surprised me about this was that it was very much like the shoot my group did for uni last year for our trend forecasting project. If you remember me talking about it then well done, you will also remember me saying we weren't allowed to post photos for a substantial amount of time due to privacy reasons. However, I will post a picture of the shoot we did now because it is two terms later blah blah blah. Anyway, our theme was weather based, primarily focused on underwater. Myself and Romy Dizzle were the stylists, and made the dresses featured, and our model Sylva posed beautifully.

Our shoot 6 months prior (snippet):

LOVE magazine shoot 6 months later:

Photographers Mert & Marcus team up with editor-in-chief Katie Grand. The whole issue seems to be based about the supernatural and romance, so the dark mystery and fantastical nature of underwater seemed very fitting. It has bluey pale hues which meant the models' skin all looked classic flawless and stunning, with a sinister edge. Models included were Lara Stone, Mariacarla Boscono, Anais Pouliot, Guinevere Van Seenus, Saksia de Brauw, Kristen McMenamy and Xiao Wen Ju.

Forecast!

Unintended 20

2011-08-30T07:55:00.000-07:00

Hello. Yesterday was my 20th birthday. Cue thoughts of 'Wahey!'/ CryinghystericallybecauseIamnolongerateenager.

Naturally I should be going wild and partying like a truly disgraceful woman in her early twenties (shudder), but no. On Sunday night I contracted food poisoning from undercooked chicken, (ironically not from carnival,) and so I spent almost my entire birthday in my bed throwing up. NICE. It was not the day I had in mind but I try to look at the silver linging - as my mother so sweetly put it 'think of the weight you'll lose!' God bless her for trying, it reminded me of Romy and Michele.

But yeah as exciting as it was not being able to eat a morsel of food including delicious birthday dinner and home-made chocolate cream and runny chocolate ganache covered birthday cake with vanilla custard and home-made caramel, I did relax and have a 'sick' day. (See what I did there?) Thinking back on it now, it only means I can look forward to having an all-out smash next year for the big 21! I plan to be on a beach in Bali with my bestie, undoubtedly getting burnt but loving it, and having a no make-up, sun kissed, gorgeous day. It may be too soon to be thinking of next summer but I never stop dreaming.

On a completely contrary note, the weather of late, (minus pretty good sunny sunday), has actually got me excited for winter. Look, I'm a Londoner, and a girl, thus I can never make up my mind so I am allowed to want the weather we never have! I am fully aware I will complain about the cold when it comes no doubt but until then I am getting excited about a new wardrobe full of creative layering and yummy knits, hot drinks and CUDDLES :) Autumn is here and I am actually giddy. I am also on the edge of starting my final year at university which is TERRIFYING, but also quite cool. I'm grown, I'm living and on the edge of complete independance.

So all in all:

Carnival Carnage

2011-08-28T07:30:00.000-07:00

Its bank holiday weekend at the end of August which means a few things:

1. Ma burfday :)

2. Shit loads of festivals meaning nobody is actually here for the amazing occasion of number 1.

3. CARNIVAAAAAAAL

Some snippets of number 3 highlighting the sunshine and blues that make up the Notting Hill rampage:

Me and Romy B (so many Romy's in my life <3)

The 'Elle' shorts got an outting!

and of course music!

Can models dance?

2011-08-28T06:40:00.000-07:00

It appears that no, not really.

Can Alber Elbaz design? It would appear so!

Lanvin AW 2011/12 campaign video featuring Karen Elson, Raquel Zimmerman and ALBER (amongst others) grooving. By Steven Meisel.

By the sea.

2011-08-22T07:05:00.000-07:00

I had a FamilyDayOut at Brighton yesterday, with a trip to the lanes, the beach, and a quakey ole' pub for a luncheon. I took it as an opportunity for some DIY/customising material hunting.

I came across the BEST beadshop ever! I bought about 120 beads, 3 packs of earring heads and clasps, wire, elastic, plus some valuable tips on jewellery making from the well informed owners of the shop, for less than a fiver! They are also available online so I can re-stock back in London. I've already made some pretty bracelets and am in the midst of some faaabulous feather earrings (yet to be revealed). Certainly a stop to make.

On the pier, I also saw some other great DIY makes made from shells found along the beach, like these quirky wall hangings and wind-charms.

In particular, I LOVED this shell chandelier. Its a littttttle trashy but it is impressive trashy, it was huge so obviously took a lot of work. Thinking of bringing a little sunshine around this shitty London district.

This motorbike was from a guy who had travelled all over the world by bike. He has stickers and signatures from all of the different countries he has been to; marking it individually. Below is displayed the map of route. 220,000 km. Woah. Certainly making my spinning classes look feeble...

Question:

2011-08-18T08:06:00.000-07:00

I am sitting on my bed in a hoodie and comfy trackies and in the process of going to make a nice hot cup of tea. WHY? WHY is it pouring rain outside? WHY is it not 35 degrees with the sun shining and a hammock and paddling pool waiting for me outside? I think it is officially autumn now which kind of takes the piss. Now I realise why all those clever bitches booked their holiday for the mid to end of August rather than in sunny July. It is all an omen.

I went for coffee yesterday with Romy and her boyfriend and she introduced me to a 'Chai Latte'. It does not suprise me when she orders drinks I have never heard of because she is one of those annoyingly adorable quirky girls that ooze cool. To be honest it looked like baby sick, but a very very fine and smooth type of baby sick...

"Try it, it tastes like Christmas" she told me. I found this a very difficult offer to turn down because the idea of encapsulating an entire season in a drink seemed something so impossible I demanded myself to test such an obscene theory. SHE WAS RIGHT. It tastes like fucking Christmas. I got excited and nostalgic for winter, AND THAT IS WHY IT IS RAINING.

I even got giddy at the thought of the new knit-wear collections.

I finally checked out Forever 21 in Bond St yesterday too, since it is newly opened. It was your average trip, went in, browsed around, a man got stabbed in the neck outside the window... y'know, caj.

I managed to buy a few things (including this amazing kimono-esque cardi-throw-type-thing that I am absolutely in love with)

before the whole road got shut off by police and the rest of Oxford Street became a human sardine can. Then, it rained. Chortle, chortle, salt on the wound and all that.

Finger's crossed for the sun on my birthday sooooooon! :)

Gym'll fix it

2011-08-17T08:30:00.000-07:00

Here is a word to the wise, if you are not used to going to the gym, do not go for a full on workout and then go out clubbing. Being me, I thought "I'll go to the gym for two hours and come out with the abs of Leanne Rimes." Instead, she just stands there with her goddamn wash-board stomach taunting me.

Those 450 abdominal crunches meant that the next day, combined with a hangover headache, no part of my body remained un-pained. It hurt when I laughed. I did console myself with a standard hangover mcdonalds... and pizza... and coca cola... so now I probably needn't have done them in the first place as its ruined again. What a vicious cycle. I remain undeterred though, soon you will see me looking like one of these girls, I'm not fussy.

State.

2011-08-16T08:02:00.000-07:00

I am so overwhelmed with the amount of shit in my room that I took time out to take a snapshot of it for you. My dad has now made me a shoe-rack. I filled the shoe-rack. I now have two storage boxes of shoes I DON'T WEAR left over, and a fuck load of cardboard. Fml.

I have talented friends.

2011-08-15T07:01:00.000-07:00

Everyone needs to check out this design look-book from my amazing friend Hannah Gant. I used to live with this hotty so I know how talented she is. I love this collection it is so fresh, girly, simple with obscure detail in the accessories. Browse through her other designs, but sorry guys, I have first dibs on future sell-out pieces.

Good Morning

2011-08-15T06:31:00.000-07:00

My first lie in days, I am jamming in my bedroom listening to 90's rap. A horrendously unhealthy breakfast of fried potatoes with melted cheese and browsing through my favourite blogs and new music. DELICIOUSS.

I showed you my brand spanking new bicycle earlier and I gone a little accessory mad with it. I came across these beauties:

Really want one of these hand-crocheted dress guards, straight from Dutch designer Simeli.

So many different designs, with prices up to 70 euros though, I may have to take up knitting again and create a knitted alternative. (My previous experiment with wool and needles was quite lumpy...)

Happy Days.

2011-08-15T06:25:00.000-07:00

My daddy is amazing. He MADE me this.

IT EVEN HAS MY NAME ON IT (!)

I Predict a Riot. And a Revolution.

2011-08-12T05:28:00.000-07:00

I'll stop the riot posts now because they are becoming quite depressing. There is enough damage physically around this city, [once] citied as one of the biggest, stylish, most forward-thinking cities in world, that we do not need constant reminders here.

I would say it is off-topic for this blog, but it is not. I read today about how one looter charged is a straight A student daughter of a countryside millionaire, and how this is supposed to be a massive surprise. I suppose on the whole, it is. We do not equate rioting 'scum' and violent criminals with the well educated and wealthy. People are trying to make excuses for those rioting by saying they stole because they are poor and need the money, have no moral example at home, or frankly are not studied enough to either get a proper job or even just occupy their time. Well it appears now that we are wrong. Why did people think this about those involved simply by just looking at them? In mid-riot there is no chance to chat to people, or even get a close up in some cases. We just glance at them and see a baggy hoodie and tracksuit.

Adidas: the official sponsors of the London Riots.

The way people present themselves still remains a representation of their personality, status and political views, whether we like it or not. People seem to disregard this but I ask you: If a woman in an elegant dress and welcoming expression had walked around the area, would you have suspected her? A man in a modest suit and tie clutching a bag of shopping - automatically stolen or "clearly" lawfully bought? Of course I don't kid myself that there is nothing more to it, I wouldn't dare be so unthoughtful, naive or downright fucking stupid but it is time that people look at themselves in all areas and ask if this is who they want to be. Everything is related nowadays: fashion, politics, economics, religion, health, education. We need to look at this nation as a whole and think about EVERYTHING that is wrong, not just blame it on a seldom few. There is no excuse for ignorance.

To end on a lighter note, I came across this tumblr created by some photoshop whizz. It rightfully humiliates those involved, but also ironically shows how modern society can act ridiculously - the Justin Bieber one for instance could very believably be a real situation, though I doubt the Beibster's biggest fans are a bunch of laddy thugs...

Aftermath.

2011-08-10T05:21:00.000-07:00

So had a casual stroll into my town broadway today. This was what I saw:

Makes me sad.

My Hometown.

2011-08-09T04:47:00.001-07:00

There is so much hate in the world. This is the place I've grown up in for 20 years in a state of chaos last night. I can't get my head around it; what are they fighting for? When young people's first instinct is to be violent and criminal, when they actually find it sadistically 'fun', when they do not even hesitate to cause damage, danger and fear, you really have to step back and reconsider how this world is being run. Speechless.

Dream Job.

2011-08-08T10:39:00.000-07:00

Up to and including her posture.

Courtesy of OscarPRGirl.

Sales wait for no (wo)man

2011-08-07T15:44:00.000-07:00

This is me right now:

Well obviously it is not me but this is the perfect sum-up of my state right now. Even the bed is identical to my own.

I am writing this having not been to sleep since Friday night. If you can read correctly, yes, it is Sunday afternoon. I went to a friend's 21st last night , (Saturday, keep up,) and after some happy partying, gleeful drinking, witnessed inadvertent fighting, and finally cab waiting, I got home at 8am, only to be told by my parents: 'Don't bother going to bed yet we are out the door in 20 minutes'. Just the thing I want to hear obviously.

So anyway this disgustingly early morning start is because of another car boot sale I am oh so partial to.

This was quite an experience because at 8.30am after a party and no sleep, I was still a bit, well, drunk. Happy days. Another rookie error was that when I came home and demolished the only food I could find - a burger with onions just cooked - BIG MISTAKE. Chunder thunder started to grow within my intestine but luckily I'm a professional girl when it comes to any form of shopping so I kept it down. I really don't know why I am telling you all this. Anyway, I wandered around the boiling hot field in last nights makeup and the feeling I was on another planet. I ended up buying a few things; a sensible book, a kitsch vintage bag, some ankle booties and what I like to now call my 'Fugly' shoes. Shoes so fucking ugly they can only be bought when drunk, but still almost adorable. I am going to make them work - I love the colour shade and the tassels are reminiscent of Alexa loafers. I was quite surprised that I found anything to actually fit me which was probably more reason than not to buy them and jazz them up. I was too into a hangover though to barter, along with the bag, so I could have probably got an even better deal but I wasn't even sure what I was doing so it sufficed.

My purchases 'yol:

Bag, £5

Boots, £4

Fugly shoes, £4

So now, bargains sought, a roast in my belly, Elle's night night time. SEE YOU NEXT WEEK.

Proclamation.

2011-08-03T08:20:00.000-07:00

I am selling my clothes.

I have three wardrobes: one for clothes I wear, one for all my vintage items and clothes I don't really wear but don't want to get rid of, and one for knick-knicks, tights/socks, pyjamas, foldable tshirts blah blah blahhh etc. I also have half a wardrobe + two boxes full of shoes, and three shelves of handbags.

I would like to add to this I am poor. TA DAAAAA, a situation presents itself.

Clothez 4 Dolla'.

After sorting it all out one morning, I went upstairs and found two untouched suitcases full of clothes I left in uni halls last year all forgotten about. Joy. So that adds to it. I managed to fill three massive storage boxes + two suitcases + one bin bag full of clothes, one bin bag full of bags, two more storage boxes + a carrier bag full of shoes TO GET RID OF. It feels amazing at first but then I realised I haven't actually got rid of any yet just assembled them into piles that will inevitably just remain there until I actually do something about it and get out my camera and ebay that shit. ALso not so amazing because my wardrobes are still nearly full yet I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR. WHY.

If I go through with it and actuall sell the damn stuff it will be a grand achievement because I am a master hoarder! It is also the only thing I have really to make me some extra cash. I need a PA to do the nitty-gritty because it is just sooooo off-putting and makes me feel lazy...

Here is part 1 of my great clear-out. I say 'part 1' like there is a sequel but no I won't show you the rest because frankly there is too much and I can't be bothered, just times it by about 3.

Happy August.

2011-08-01T07:57:00.000-07:00

Spent the morning painting my nails and watching Gentleman Prefer Blondes. I've forgotten how much I just loveee that film, Monroe is just a fox. It did strike me though that this is probably where the whole 'ditzy blonde' persona came from but if that is true, isn't a bit ironic because Monroe is not that ditzy at all really by the end? Her spin to her father-in-law to be made me want to stand up and applause. The whole film also made me want to buy shit-loads of diamonds and wear only fabulous dresses that do actually embrace hips. I'm usually a size zero admirer but I tell you, one showing of Jane Russell 's evening wear at the next Fashion Week and hard-core fashion types would actually be converted.

My bubba is 10 years old this month. I am aware how sickenly cutesy I sound but I don't care. I caught her hiding and sleeping in the summertime :)

IwantIneedetcetc

2011-07-29T06:16:00.000-07:00

Today's wish-list:

Topshop, £28

These loafers, or 'slippers' they have now been donned, are a cheaper version of the same style shoe Topshop produced last year, that were a stronger leather material. Despite this new pair being 100% Polyurethane, I do think they are still a bargain based on a design perspective. I have been fawning over the former pair for ages but my poor state made me reluctant to part with the cash so these are the perfect alternative. The design is spawn from the originals, the striking Louboutin stud loafers from 2009/10.

Alsooooo:

WHER ARE THESE? IMPOSSIBLE to find on Asos!

Asos, £160

Topshop, £20

People must think I'm not a very satisfied girl.... Or just a fashion student shopaholic. The latter is true. It seems I may still also be in the midst of a punk chic obsession too; I just can't seem to get enough of leopard print and studs recently.

No room for a typo

2011-07-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

I came across artist 27 year old Keira Rathbone today and thought I should share her amazing work. What is so amazingly original about her work is that she has only one tool: her typewriter. The Londoner first experimented with typewriter art in university after buying one at a flee market, (sounds familiar....), and after a lot of writers block, used it as a drawing tool instead.

Using only her typing skills with numbers, letters and punctuation, she creates these AMAZING collages. One pictures can take up to 90 hours which is no surprise when you see the detail in the finished product. She has currently about 30 typewriters differing in ages between around 20 and 70 years old, and uses them alternately for different feels and visions for her pictures.

I love to see how artists are still finding new ways to be original and unbelievable, and in this technical day and age the ole' typewriter still has its use. I'm getting out mine and trying it but safe to say I do not have the natural direction needed for these.

Watch the video to see her in action!

Midnight Snack

2011-07-27T19:26:00.000-07:00

This is another one of those slightly unnecessary but sweet ramble of a post. I was not in the greatest of moods today. I shall not go into why, its just one of those things. It concerns few people and they would know why. Lack of sleep and routine has a lot to answer for though; as does the monotony of home (as comforting as it can be.) I can’t really complain about a lack of winks too much though, it is my own fault my pattern is so amazingly messed up. You can tell it is messed up because it is 3am and I am writing this. I didnt sleep much last night, consequential to my mood, and when I did I had so many strange dreams. I seem to have a lot recently, it almost makes me fear sleeping.

So I woke up at a usual time this morning and had an urge to just read. I always get this when I finish a book and want to start another fresh. I finished a very depressing book the other day, The Virgin Suicides, one I have held onto for a while but found it so disconcerting I dipped unreliably in and out of it. Nevertheless it was still good, but perhaps slightly lacking my interest by the end because I have already seen the film, which is marvellous, which was directed by Sofia Coppola, clearly one of my favourites. I started The Perks Of Being A Wallflower, and actually ended up nearly finishing it. I allowed myself around 40 pages to go, because if I do actually finish it in one day there will be such a huge anti-climax to my New Book Day.

I purchased it a while ago after reading many positive reviews and researching the synopsis, and assessed it in my head as something I would probably enjoy. I have just re-read those last few sentences and realised I sound exactly like the main character! Powerful. But anyway I recently learned that it too is being made into a film. Does no novel stay as a book anymore?! It is crazy! I’m not sure how I feel about this because I always feel slightly annoyed when books become movies because I then feel my reading is not personal or an acclomplishment to me anymore; its too accessible for the lazy. Nevertheless though on the other hand, I am really enjoying it and am genuinely interested to see how it is versioned on the screen. As a film geek I immediately IMDB’d it before I started reading which was a stupid idea because I learnt that Emma Watson is going to play one of the main characters. Now, everytime I read about the character in the book I envision her face automatically. I do not particularly like Emma Watson, but I do like her character, Sam, so you see my annoyance. There is one part of the story though when they talk about poet e.e.cummings, who is one of my favourites. This made me happy but also made me laugh, because I think the author is subconsiously having a dig about how hilariously hipster he/his work is becoming. (I still love him.) The story also has numerous mentions of The Smiths though as well, who to be honest cannot be patronised too much, so hell what do I know?

I read half this book and then fell asleep again until 4pm. Disgraceful - but bloody amaaazing. So naturally now I cannot sleep. Well I couldn’t, so I carried on reading for another 2 hours. It is amazing though what naps and literature can do for a mood. At least temporarily. I still want a bike. I spent another two hours of my day scouring ebay and related sites for the perfect bicycle. Who says I don’t live a little?! Baring in mind I romanticise everything, I looked for a skinny white bicycle with a wicker basket and a sunshine background. And ha! I actually found a few. One even came with an albino cat, but I can’t be dealing with cats - not when my dog is asleep next to me again. I also found a few semi-serious ones which I think validates my time spent looking for one a bit. I would post some pictures but if someone takes a fancy and pips me to the post concerning the online auction ONE MORE TIME, I will go mad...

I think you have to romanticise everything though sometimes, it is the only way to realistically deal with monotony. I am god sick of some things in my life but I have to live, so why not live with some pretty scenes instead? Here are some nightcap beauties for your eyes:

Goodnight xxx

I do not own either of these pictures, I cannot find their origins to credit them but they are beautiful!

Got Ink?

2011-07-26T04:41:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to talk about this artwork I found by Juan Francisco Casas, a Spaniard with one tool: A BIRO!

It is actually so hard to believe but every single one of these pictures is hand drawn done using only a BIC ballpoint pen, and he uses up to 14 for each piece measuring up to 10 metres high.

They look like they could be photos, which apparently is where he mainly gets his inspiration from - nights out with his friends, and I can only imagine what that involves since most of the girls don't seem to be wearing very much clothing!

Anyway, he has a large collection of these amazing drawings but here are a few I thought were especially impressive:

Rest In Peace Amy

2011-07-24T17:46:00.000-07:00

RIP Amy Winehouse

Can you guess what it is yet?

2011-07-22T05:06:00.000-07:00

I came across this unusual artwork by Aurel Schmidt. From New York, Schmidt is a socialite and erotic photographer, but also a fine drawer, something that is sometimes overlooked when first glancing upon her work. Safe to say it isn't for everyone, (you'll see what I mean), but when looking closely there is absolute and extreme detail in her pictures, with strong messages about sexuality and the state of society conveyed in a personable and humourous way. Twinned with some of the titles of the pieces, I cringed and laughed at the simple concepts but striking and immense detail of her artworks.

From her Maneater collection:

"Self Portrait with Various Addictions and Fears of Aging"

(and below: in detail)

"Never Change"

"Heaven is a Place On Earth"

"Don't Wanna be Alone Tonight"

"Girls Night Out"

"Like a Fish needs a Bicycle"

"Medusa"

(and below: in detail)

"Rachel"

From her Burnouts & Party Monsters collection:

This collections is less pencil heavy but more based around creating facial expressions and scene through burning shapes into her paper. Background illustrations help convey the image and connotations of the title.

"Barf Bucket Boyfriend"

"Musk" (*cue giggle)

There was another containing the image of a used tampon with the title: "Pretty", but I thought that was something you could do without. Investigate yourself if you so wish...

RIP Lucian Freud

2011-07-21T15:02:00.001-07:00

Artist Lucian Freud died yesterday at the age of 88. Arguably one of the greatest artists of his era, it is a sad loss. It is very coincidental too that only last week my mother painted me in the style of Freud for an art project; his work is something she much admires.

The above picture is from his Self-Portrait With A Black Eye, which was painted circa 1978 after he got into a brawl with a taxi driver. It was sold last year for £2.8 million.

RIP

Feeling Moody

2011-07-21T11:16:00.000-07:00

Some mood boards I made:

I want you, I need you, Oh baby, Oh baby

2011-07-21T02:54:00.000-07:00

This is just one of those slightly unnecessary posts about what I am lusting after but cannot afford. Oh the troubles of being student/teenage/general bum. Well actually that is a bit self-deprecating, I have a job, and have done since I was 16, but I also have a condition; I believe it to be some form of shopoholism, spendmoneytoeasilyism, and so on and so forth.

Wish-list for this week:

I found this little number playing homage to the amazing Rachel Zoe. I DIE.

If unlike me you are not poor and would like any of these items yourself:

Floral kimono; Leopard print chiffon tie cardi; Patchwork dress; Cut-out black flared shirt; Leopard print platforms; Litas all available from Nasty Gal.
Magic unicorn jumper available from Yatt.
Rachel Zoe Bananas tshirt available from CLS.
Thigh-high perspex boots are from I DO NOT KNOW. Pleaseeeee help me find them! Saw this picture on tumblr but they are too amazing!

House of Cards

2011-07-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

As always I am never content with settling but instead always looking to create. One of my secret passions is interiors, and I have a book of snippets of kooky bedrooms pictures for ever inspiration. Some of the cool ones I found now:

I LOVE this, especially with the small space. Its like a fifties diner meets disco meets barbie hotel.

I'm gonna make this for my future daughter. Like a little floral cave :)

I'm going to make these lips out of paper-mâché - its my next project. I've tried to buy those bulbed mirrors for years too but if I have any more reflections in my room it will turn into a funfair-style house or mirrors... Wouldn't mind morphing into a laughy smiley blonde with a talent for sitars.

God I love clutter.

ZOO DAY

2011-07-19T23:15:00.000-07:00

Today was a glorious, glorious day. For all those with a big kid inside them, you will appreciate. I went to London Zoo.

For those who this means nothing to... JUST LOOK AT THE MONKEYS!!

Saw this camel who had deflated humps! Never seen this before but apparently it happens when a camel moves habitats (in this case, zoo to zoo), and their diet drastically alters. It was odd but sweet looking upon them, as if they were the new strange kid in the playground. Though to be fair, there is not much to being a camel - wake up eat some hay, eat some more hay, even more hay, sleep...

DORY

Casual bit of inseX (see what I did there?...)

Standard British summer...

Took part in their climate change programme: making a pledge to help cut carbon emissions, even with an online signature. I got this certificate ticket, aww.

Some particular camera angling to create this gem...

What I liked about these pictures was that when I got home I came across a photo blog article form Vice magazine, showing images of London Zoo in the 1930s.

Seeing the contrast, it was a lot more open back then! All the children seem to be engaging and playing harmlessly with the animals, nowadays there are fences and barricades that mean you almost don't even get to see the animals properly. If only life was as safe and free now.

...And I most definately didn't see any elephants! One of my favourites which was a slight disappointment. Still, the love for the zoo lives on!

Sunday morning, rain is falling

2011-07-17T18:14:00.000-07:00

So "morning" consists of a strict 1pm wake up. At least doing night shifts means you have a long lie in during the day. This bi-polar weather is continuing so rain is pouring on my window, which I have actually always found very therapeutic. It is yummy to listen to whilst catching up on my sunday glossies and a rare brekkie in bed.

Yes that is toast with half banana and honey, half marmite topping. THE FOOD OF GODS.

I'm thinking about digging into my extensive self-made reading list, but then I think of watching Malcolm In The Middle wrapped in my duvet instead... Procrastination and joking aside, my bedside table has a collection of Chicken Soup For The Soul, The Feminine Mystique, The Dukan Diet and An Introduction To Buddhism. I'm just soo hipster. I am trying to decipher what that says about me; probably that in theory I'm a self-help junkie but in reality I just like inspiration. Though I have actually been increasingly interested in Buddhism recently. I painted a canvas of Buddha the other week out of sheer boredom and now it is so bright and colourful it adds a little expression to my room. I went to see a sculpture exhibition of Buddha the other day with stone, metal, gold etc pieces, some dating back to 200 AD, heads torn off and arms worn down and all sorts. Every aspect is so precisely thought about.

I suppose it was really when I realised it is time I start thinking about inspiration for my final year project that I decided I should try out different creative practices, and I am trying to look into any and every angle for an original topic. I have been very neglectful of my blog recently and it is time to get back to it. Already reading this back I see just how rusty my writing is, especially as many of my friends know me to be a grammar nazi. Its a great outlet for my disjointed ramblings and random appraisals, all of which allows me to create. My dissertation project plan is still blank though, so it is only a matter of time before I feel the full force of The Fear...

This is not all necessary to read, so I apologise to all. It is more a self promise in writing to work. After all everything looks better in black and white.

Calming bubba.

As I finished writing this my dog jumped onto my bed and decided to fall asleep whilst I'm still in it. I think she is dreaming of chasing cats because her legs are moving as if running - sooo cute. Though she is also doing that weird heavy breathing 'dream barking' thing which isn't so much cute as worrying for her air supply...

How I feel today.

2011-07-16T13:30:00.000-07:00

So Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, aka. THE FINAL FRONTIER came out today.

This is all I have to say.

Can we, shall we, one day, very soon?

2011-07-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

I saw this card yesterday, designed by Rob Ryan, and immediately snapped it up! I have no particular occasion for it but it is so sweet and beautiful and very quirky and weird like me. I doubt I will ever actually give it away to someone but stick it on my wall.

Here are some more designs by Rob Ryan I have found. There are heart-warming and obviously showcase a lot of talent in designing. He's a new favourite illustrator of mine.

Check out his blog here.

On the tip of my tongue

2011-07-15T15:20:00.000-07:00

Words we don't have in English:

Going for Gold

2011-07-13T12:27:00.000-07:00

I went to the V&A today and saw an exhibition about South African photographer David Goldblatt. I was unfamiliar with his work beforehand but I found some of his pictures beautiful and inspiring.

Much of his work was created during the times of Apartheid, and the topic holds great relevance throughout his career.

The Salute of the banned African National Congress at the graves of four assassinated black community leaders. Cradock, Eastern Cape, 20 July 1985.

New Years Day at Hartebeespoort Dam, North-West Province, 1965.

The Apostolic Multiracial Church in Zion of South Africa. Crossroads, Cape Town, Cape, 11 October 1984.

Saturday morning at the Pick 'n Pay Hypermarket: Miss Lovely Legs Competition. Boksburg, 1980.

The free exhibition is on until July 31st at the V&A museum.

Beauty deconstructed

2011-07-10T14:20:00.000-07:00

Untitled from Tim Walker on Vimeo.

A night wot was delightful like

2011-07-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

I went to see Pygmalion at the Garrick Theatre in Leicester Square last night. Many may recognise the show as ‘My Fair Lady’ (below), the musical version from 1964 starring my beloved Audrey. (I love the below picture, the common girl being lured by chocolate.) This is the original stage version by George Bernard Shaw, with no musical numbers but instead a raw and heavy dialogue rich in humour. As a wordy person I relished this, though if you are akin to zoning out in conversation you may need a re-think. I was lucky enough to see this version starring Kara Tointon and Rupert Everett. My love for Everett was only increased by his performance here, he is just so excellent an actor, though he made the role of Professor Higgins almost dark. Kara was Eliza and I must say it was perfect casting. She is so sweet and delicate and small, but with that feisty cockney attitude that made her shine. The above picture showed her post-immidate transformation, in the hilarious ‘Did Her In’ scene, (perhaps thats where Nicki Minaj got it from haha?) A wonderful production, I recommend you all go see it.

I'm just saying you could do better. Tell me have you heard that lately?

2011-06-27T14:23:00.000-07:00

Penultimate

2011-06-16T14:27:00.000-07:00

Felt mad creative today. My day started by waking up next to a sleeping Romy, probably the quietest napper I have ever seen/(not) heard, with rain beating very aggressively on the window. A lovely walk in the rain and probably a contraction of flu later, and I have been painting all day. I have been trying to detox my mind lately, having treated myself to a gorge on Amazon; buying lots of yummy new books, and some indulgent 90’s dvds. I give myself too many books to ever possibly read at once but I like them being around me. The smell and feel and sense of future accomplishment that they exude gives a good energy I reckon, (without sounding too New-Age.) Though recently I’ve become interested in Buddhism and have been obsessed with drawing buddhas all week so I thought it best to start painting. Perhaps it is all this talk of dissertation preparation that is kick-starting my brain into gear. All I need now is the rest of my body to catch up and actually start going to the gym…. Of course the reason I am feeling as if I could do a hundred things is naturally because I shouldn’t be doing any of them. It is the LAST DAY of uni tomorrow for this year, it has finally dragged its long-winded arse into view it seems. My penultimate day of being a ‘carefree’ student. As of tomorrow evening I will turn into a ‘Final Year’ student, complete with capital letters and a DUN DUN DUNNNNN background noise effect. Here is to looking forward!

Something to sleep by.

2011-06-16T14:26:00.000-07:00

Blooming

2011-06-14T05:38:00.000-07:00

Breathtaking new shoot from Dazed & Confused magazine. Styled by Katie Shillingford and photographed by Viviane Sassen, it seems this is what I just missed out on upon finishing my internship there! I am a HUGE fan of colour, particularly pink and orange, as well as being a classic flower-lovin' girl at heart, so these shots from the Lisse Tulip fields in Holland are calling out to me. There is no shortage of texture, pattern and movement too, So delightfully messy yet beautiful.

The 6th and 7th are particular favourites.

Model: Lisanne de Jong

Showcasing: Vivienne Westwood, Pam Hogg, Sonia Rykiel, amongst others.

Like a German

2011-06-07T14:45:00.000-07:00

Came back from Berlin yesterday!

My weekend:

32 hours on a coach, 5 countries in 4 days, dinner and merry beers in Belgium, exotic-like heat, a whole lotta culture, art and walking, tube station break dancing and night-club flash-mobs, outdoor karaoke with an audience of 1000+, flea market shopping, LITAS, passionfruit ice cream, friendship bracelets, the hunt for chips, death to vegetables, dancing on a canal boat, dancing underground, 5am taxis, street art, nipple glasses, hats and SUNBURN.

Whilst in Berlin I went to a quaint and tiny tea shop just off the main city centre, and picked up some interesting flavours.

Vay-kay-shun

2011-06-01T15:03:00.000-07:00

BERLIN TOMORROW. SEE YA!

Nature's Accessory

2011-05-28T15:53:00.000-07:00

I went to Brick Lane today and came across this cute flower head-dress stand. At Bestival last year they had these for sale and all us girls wore them like fairy princesses. Its certainly very popular now, all the high street stores are selling replicas which does annoy me because I liked wearing them. Though this stall was great and cheap, and, if nothing else, was a beautiful bit of greenery in Spitalfields market.

Lords of the Dance

2011-05-24T15:09:00.000-07:00

I went to see “Manon” the ballet at the Royal Opera House last night. I love the music in this scene, but the costumes from the whole performance were stand out. In Act 2 they wore stunning period outfits all in a rustic autumn hue, with big auburn and ginger almost-afros, it could have been any catwalk show - if catwalks were in grand palaces that is. The women were just so elegant, and the men… stronger and more toned than any athlete. Such a beautiful story, I miss the ballet.

The Beauty of Death

2011-05-14T13:38:00.000-07:00

I found this on a favourite blog and had to steal it. Evelyn McHale was 23 when she leaped from the top of the Empire State Building and landed perfectly on a limousine parked eighty six floors below. Nearby, photographer Richard Wiles rushed to the scene after hearing the loud noise and captured this moment. The photograph was then published as Life magazine's Photo of the Week on the 12th of May 1947- just a few days after it was taken- and appeared again in The Best of Life retrospective some years later. Portraying a scene of both great sadness, utter stillness and beauty, the image continues to evoke great emotion over sixty years after its publication.

ETQTE BBY now has a tumblr too!

2011-05-01T06:59:00.000-07:00

Check out the ETQTE BBY tumblr here!

Full of pretty pictures and quotes to influence and document :)

A Duchess and a McQueen

2011-04-30T15:25:00.000-07:00

I just have to admit something. I'm no fan of the royal family but the wedding yesterday brought tears to my eyes. Mainly because Sarah Burton is a genius...

My month at Dazed & Confused:

2011-04-15T06:19:00.000-07:00

Apologies for the massive gap. I have been a busy busy bee. I have just spent a 4 weeks interning for Dazed & Confused magazine!

Natasha and I casually sitting on leather sofas in the car park. Sipping smoothies and 'keeping guard'

It has been a long rollercoaster of activities so I will keep it short. I was with the advertising department mainly but I also got to dip in and out of other offices for whoever needed me. the great thing about the Dazed offices, (which they share with sister magazines AnOther, and AnOther Man, as well as the Dazed Digital website), is that it is all on a single floor office warehouse together. It’s small! You can walk around the whole things quite comfortably and it is simple but modern, with sofas dotted around and frame magazine covers all over the walls. Everyone there is impecibly cool of course, and each department has its own little zany style from the hipstery graphics team, to the polished assistants to Jefferson Hack - the editor-in-chief- in case you don’t know!

Jefferson is one of the coolest people ever. Although everyone says how nice and friendly he is, naturally I was terrified, and he has this smooth low voice, very calm but knows what he wants. I saw him a lot but he rarely spoke to me. I had to tidy his meeting room a lot, after being told things casual things like 'Lily Cole coming in for a bit tomorrow.'

Man, do they work fast. Over my month long stay there, I saw four different issues come in and out. The April edition had just been published, and when I left, June was being sent of to the printers. Here are the editions I worked on!

There was already another long-term intern in my department, Natasha, who happened to be from the same area as me and even had mutual friends, soo coincidental but great, and she instantly welcomed me into the Interns Lunch Club. A great thing about Dazed was that it is very laid back but still professional. Taking a lunch-break early or running out for a coffee and some cigs was no problem, and the offices are also located right next to one of the best food markets in London which the made mid-day break a treat.

As Natasha was already considered one of the team she took the majority of responsibilty, so work load fluttered as times between having late-night work loads and nothing to do. Nevertheless it seems I arrived at a pivotal point in the calendar as they have just launched their first day-long festival, Dazed Live, as well as having a host of events including a fragrance launch for Carolina Hererra.

I had to do a lot of brand and magazine comparisons, which was fun because I was able to read all my glossy mag gossip whilst being able to legitimately call it work! It taught me how intricate and above all expensive brand selling is; Poppy (the assistant to the Assosicate Publisher, and the fantastic woman who gave me the internship, who is also stunning and in an awesome band (!)) herself referred to the office as sometimes being “a scene from Jerry Maguire”.

Another job I became heavily involved in was the organising of Dazed Live. Myself and a girl named Fiona (who became another great friend) had to interview those wishing to work at the festival. Although Fiona took most of the control whilst I took her job, I must say it was interesting and quite amusing being on the other end of the questionning process!

I did some work for the website too, transcribing an interview with none other than the legendary director Luc Besson, about his upcoming film The Extraordinary Adventures of Adele Blanc-Sec. I was just given a recording and told to write it, I didn't realise who it was until I started listening. Listening to his voice for an hour was quite soothing, I think I laughed once or twice out loud which I didn't realise in my own little headphone-d world. You can read the interview here!

i was made to feel like part of the team, with weekly Thursday expeditions to the local pub for after hours catch up and partying, and on my last day my entire department went on an ‘Ad Team Bonding Trip’... at Shoreditch House Private Members Club! ERR. And with paid for dinner and cocktails, it was swanky. Dazed sure don’t do things by halves. It was great, the whole team came out of work mode and gossiped and laughed for the rest of the night; it was like we were friends rather than colleugues. I have nothing but respect for the Dazed Massive, and would definitely work there again. It’s really made me evaluate what I want to do when I graduate, whether its journalism, advertising, or styling. Life is sweeeet!

I got bored...

2011-03-02T16:08:00.000-08:00

and maybe a tad narcissistic...

The Oscars: Red Carpet Winners and Losers

2011-02-28T06:31:00.001-08:00

The 83rd Academy Awards, otherwise known as the Oscars, kicked off last night at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood. I have to admit I stayed up until 2am to watch the red carpet entrance so I could spy on the A-listers and their gowns. Some say sad, I rather say 'committed' :) Committed to fashion that is, not to, y'know...

Anyway here are hit and misses from last night:

Amy Adams proved a nomination for best dressed as well as Best Supporting Actress in her navy sequined gown by L'Wren Scott.

Halle Berry in a nude and crystal encrusted corset gown with silk tulle ruffles by Marchesa.

Gwyneth Paltrow in Calvin Klein. So metallic and slinky, showing off her slender figure, love it.

Hilary Swank in ostrich feathers in Gucci. She looks positively feminine, an achievement for the Swankster.

Absolutely ADORE this Kaufman Franco dress Camila Alves is wearing. Combined with the Lorraine Schwartz earrings and elegant up-do is so vintage Hollywood chic. Always dreamed of a big dress like this.

Best Actress Winner Natalie Portman in Rodarte. Rodarte were the designers behind the costume in the film responsible for her win, Black Swan, so it felt appropriate to pay homage to them at the event. The first second I saw the dress I liked it but felt it a bit boring for one of the main winners, but upon reflection the colour looks stunning against her skin tone and the shape is flattering for her cute little baby bump. Also loving the side swept 40's curls and Tiffany's earrings.

Best Supporting Actress nominee Hailee Steinfeld looked gorgeous in a Marchesa gown which she, apparently, helped co-design herself! Limitless talent. Although some people are criticising the heels on the 14 year old, I say if you can't do it all at the Oscars, when can ya?

And then there are the not so great....

Ok I know everyone loves Helena Bonham-Carter and her literally flying the flag for Britain, but I'm just going to say it - her 'I don't care about clothes' is kind of boring me. Her dress is similar to many others she has worn, and is ill fitting. I think it is the John Lennon glasses that are starting to grate. I do love her but I am just getting a little bored. Still, going to the Oscars in a labeless dress is amazing, and in her defence, her statement that "Its about film not fashion" cannot be contested.

The Givenchy gown just doesn't work on Cate Blanchett. The bottom half is pretty but the bizarre circle panel has a lumpy effect on her torso, and the yellow back doesn't complement her skin. The dress overall is too quirky for the traditional Oscars, and the traditional Cate.

20-year-old Best Actress nominee Jennifer Lawrence looks BORING. The little known (before now) actress had a chance to make herself and her style known on this remarkable occassion but instead opted for this super-minimalist Calvin Klein number.

Scarlett Johansson in Dolce and Gabbana. Eurgh. Seriously do not understand the mass appeal with this woman half the time.

WINNER: BIGGEST FASHION CASUALTY OF THE NIGHT

Nicole Kidman. Ah Nicole, Nicole, Nicole. Obviously standing by Galliano in this Christian Dior polava, she looks like she wrapped herself in a carpet and threw on some tacky diamontes. Also what is with the tangerine orange heels?! Wrong colour for her skin, awkward shape, and looks unfinished. Take a bow Ms Kidman.

The Sartorialist Speaks Out

2011-02-26T06:25:00.000-08:00

A video for our think tanks

2011-02-25T04:37:00.001-08:00

Hermanos Inglesos feat. MeMe - "Wanderland" from Michélé De Feudis on Vimeo.

Look of the day:

2011-02-24T11:04:00.000-08:00

Musician Marina Diamandis @ the NME Awards

I am LOVING this look by the Marina and the Diamonds singer at the NME music awards last night. She has mastered that perfect cross between modern rock sexy and a girly candy cute. I went through a faze where I used to wear outlandish bows on my head myself so I am channelling the tie-dye headpiece, which is complimented by the neon lipstick. Marina is so lucky to have that Mediterranean skin tone which only enhances the glow of the white dress, and she can actually match the dark accessories to her own hair. The split-thigh says sex appeal with the rainbow extras pinpointing her own eccentricity.

Down on Fashion Street

2011-02-23T15:04:00.001-08:00

London Fashion Week drew to a close today. Here are some of the best of the 'normal' people gracing the halls of Somerset House in some street styles pics of the event.

I had to put this above one in purely because I need to point out that I don't think I have EVER seen a man with ankles as skinny as that. EVER. And I go to LCF...

Lol this man actually wrote 'Diva' under occupation.

Disclaimer: I do not own any of these pictures.

Bonjour Monseiur

2011-02-23T13:30:00.000-08:00

I am loving Monsieur Steve at the moment. No he is not a close personal French friend, (as much as I would like one), he is a t-shirt and accessories designer specialising in simple quirky takes on the big fashion house names. I actually discovered him a while back but he hs only recently started branching out his collections, with the newer pieces being witty and trendy. These are my favourites, the dirty and the dark:

Visit the store here.

Moving up in the world!

2011-02-23T13:28:00.000-08:00

ETQTE BBY has a new address. I have lost the 'blogspot' detail and so...

the blog is now at:

www.etiquettebaby.com

spread the word.

The curse of fashion.

2011-02-22T14:13:00.000-08:00

I want to be thin like the model.

I want to be successful like the writer.

I want to be creative like the artist.

I want to be pretty like the muse.

I want to be rich like the celebrity.

I want to be talented like the musician.

I want to be acknowledged like the icon.

I want to be fashionable like the stylist.

I want to be cool like the photographer.

I want to be happy like the person viewing, watching, listening to it all but doesn't do any one of these things.

Dragonflies fantasised

2011-02-18T09:50:00.000-08:00

Thom Yorke us all a Valentine present this week when he along with the rest of Radiohead aka. best band in the world, gave us the new album EARLY.

Had to post this because this blog is about beautiful things and to be honest it doesn't get much more beautiful than this. In my opinion the best song on the album. Curl up and listen. Peace.

WGSN Trend Forecasts

2011-02-17T05:40:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough this week to attend a WGSN Trend Forecasting Lecture. WGSN is probably the most reliable source of fashion forecasting so I sat up, listened, documented, and then wrote it all down for you all to see.

They named 3 new trends from the coming year in fashion:

'Faux Real', '360 Degrees', and 'Your Space', all very interesting concepts that are extremely varied to satisfy all different genres of taste.

Please excuse the very low-res photos but my usual camera was broken so used a replacement at the last minute. You get the picture.

'FAUX REAL' Autumn/Winter 2011/12

The basics:

Looking fake as fake becomes real, taking heritage values out of context.
This trend is all about TEXTURE.

This outfit is by Custo Barcelona.

It is a tactile coat; the pink makes it look obviously fake, a kitsch luxury. Digital printing and matte black solidifying colours embalm the look together. Other fashion ideas to look out for with this trend are colour blocking and body panelling.

With formal wear, there is now a definite anti-sweet, anti-feminine, anti-floaty/boho ideology. It is replaced with tight, black, punky punches but also allow sweeter ideals, like pink hues, to soften the look if it is too much for personal taste.

Overview:

Angular faceting is a flattering way to mould the female form.
brash accessories are conspicuously fake.
Matte black pieces provide a quiet backdrop for manipulated surfaces.
Look for pieces which pay a playful homage to design icons.

'360 DEGREES' Autumn/Winter 2011/12

The basics:

Futuristic technologies combine with ancient traditions.
We take a 360 degree view of a garment.
Movement and fluidity offer a 3D experience.
Clever cutting creates a focus on SHAPE.

This trend is all about transition; looking at everything from future technological aspects to ancient rural. We need to see all perspectives and combine them. For example the necklace in the above picture shows a fusion between the stark simplicity of the rope and the contemporary connotations of the metal put together to create a well rounded style - a 360 degree style. SHAPE is outlined as the key aspect in this trend, as was texture with faux real, 36 degrees is all about contortion.

Fashion wise, the look is best when made to look fun and playful. Formal wear should have a healthy dose of eccentricity and very much pieces being styled up, though this is much more folksy where the last one was sporty. Casual wear should show patches of hap-hazard, fun, styling. Spicy construction whilst not forgetting sustainability. There is a mix between digital and spiritual moods. In essence, it is a creative trend that allows a lot of imagination to seep through.

Accessories to look out for:

'Statement' shoes, chunky knits, furs, capes.

This outfit is by Custo Barcelona again.

(ref: navajo coat, vagabond look)

Overview:

Ancient spiritual patterning is reworked for a digital age.
Rugged and cosy accessories have a wild folk feel.
Comfort and movement follow through from casual wear to formal wear.

'YOUR SPACE' Autumn/Winter 2011/12

The basics:

Clean up, organise, compartmentalise and focus on the essentials.
Be inspired by uniformity and sartorial etiquette.
Designs driven by functionality are fit for purpose.

This trend has a formalised look of the 1930's and 1940's but uses it in a unified and contemporary way; honing in on pieces that have longevity, classic and personal appeal. The silhouette differs from the traditional with boxy silhouettes for military - which is still very much an alive trend. The trend, overall, is unmistakably masculine with casual androgyny.

With regards to casual and formal looks and use of accessories:

Denim is still current, a return of tunics, capes, and even aprons. Anything with boxy shapes. The idea of having outfit for best will be prominent but everything should be simple and not over-styled. This does not mean ideas can't be mixed however as pieces such as negligee maxi dresses could be seen frequently. Outfits should 'speak' to you - conversational polkadots and floral prints, feminine nostalgia evoked.

Overview:

Look at this as the new direction for military and utility looks.
Think about pieces which are functional and versatile for your consumer's life.
Hardwearing fabrications provide a rugged practicality.
Pare back to the essentials and be restrained in editing collections.

WGSN ALSO LOVES...

After the fashion trend talk, WGSN gave a short speech about other ideas to watch out for over the next few years with regards to fashion as an industry, society, and innovation. Thoroughly inspiring and useful to anyone interesting in forecasting.

1. The humble vending machine. Sounds odd but the contraption has already started being used as a method of selling in the fashion industry. This picture in particular shows a vending machine by Katie Grand used for Selfridges. It poses a debate between what is disposable in fashion and what it sought for an unattainable. It also fuses extreme luxury with everyday needs. Also seen using the vending machine idea have been Zandra Rhodes and Commes des Garcons at Dover Street Market.

2. The new androgyny. Gender manipulation is back. Rising numbers of models on the catwalk are toning down the femininity and embracing male influence. Look at Lady Gaga's widely renowned cover for Vogue Japan.

3. The influx of 4d. Fashion film has been growing in popularity as an outlet of both advertising as well as inspiration. 3d has been done to the maximum and so now comes the next realm. Look at Ralph Lauren's show-stopping 4d show on both Madison Avenue in New York and Bond Street in London. The fashion label truly took fashion film out of the context of the internet, adding atmospheric perfume and a loud soundtrack to created a 4d sensory experience. Obviously a highly publicised example but 4d can also be done on a budget which is what makes it great; definitely something to look out for.

Sewing.

2011-02-16T14:34:00.000-08:00

Rom Dizzle and I and our 2 day creation.

Apparently I am not allowed to post the photos of our shoot with this dress for a number of months, but just wait, it is faaaabulous.

Pure

2011-02-15T09:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went to the PURE London Show in Earl's Court and Olympia, one of the country's largest bi-annual trade events. Although primarily for fashion buyers, press passes and certain student admittance are issued by invitation. ETQTE BBY went along to see it all. In two separate locations, the show is huge:

It was full of quirky pieces that gave me inspiration to take home for my own creations.

There were also a number of catwalk shows, both by specific designers as well as trend companies:

WGSN's in particular was a popular highlight of the day. I was also invited to attend the trend lecture later on.

Stay tuned for the WGSN Trend Forecasting Report!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

2011-02-14T02:34:00.000-08:00

Give the Fashion Week Diet a rest for the day and indulge in those sexy chocolates!

FINALLY

2011-02-11T17:18:00.000-08:00

Lady Fashion

2011-02-11T16:10:00.000-08:00

Lady Gaga has covered U.S. Vogue. Although the hype over Gaga may have died down a bit over the last few months, the issue is still expected to be one of the best selling as she proves such an interesting character. It seems as a society we are drawn to quirky cases and with the influx of new musical enigmas, - Nicki Minaj, Jessie J and suchlike - the limelight is no longer on Lady G. Nevertheless, with Vogue comes the beautiful couture gowns in stunning editorial. To say Lady Gaga has a creative sense of style is an understatement, so her whited out eyebrows and androgynous haircut come as no surprise. However, I do think it would not have harmed Vogue to have made Gaga seem more feminine and beautiful - it is so rare a sight and would have drawn mass attention. The vulnerability in Gaga would have been more apparent and everyone knows people are suckers for a victim. As much as I would campaign for the return of models fronting fashion magazines rather than celebrities, at least if you're going to do it, do it right, and it is exciting when big names like Gaga spill:

ON HERSELF

'Speaking purely from a musical standpoint, I think I am a great performer. I am a talented entertainer. I consider myself to have one of the greatest voices in the industry. I consider myself to be one of the greatest songwriters.... I wouldn't say that I am one of the greatest dancers, but I am really quite good at what I do. I think it’s OK to be confident in yourself.'

ON HER FANS

'Sometimes, being on stage is like having sex with my fans,' she says. 'They're the only people on the planet who in an instant can make me just lose it.... I see myself in them. I was this really bad, rebellious misfit of a person - I still am -sneaking out, going to clubs, drugs, alcohol, older men, younger men. You imagine it, I did it. I was just a bad kid. And I look at them, and every show there's a little more eyeliner, a little more freedom, and a little more 'I don't give a f*** about the bullies at my school.'

ON COVERING VOGUE

'Because, as funny as it is that I am on the cover of Vogue - and no one is laughing harder than I am - I was the girl in school who was most likely to walk down the hallway and get called a slut or a b**** or ugly or big nose or nerd or dyke.'

Spring Love

2011-02-10T16:49:00.000-08:00

In love with this collection called 'Begonia House" from bespoke designer Kelsey Genna. Although a small selection, I can truthfully say I would wear any item from it handed to me! *Hint for present ideas... just sayin'....

The website is lovingly girly and the springtime items make me want to have tea parties in the woods, Tim Walker style.