Lola likes ...

Dip dyed locks!

2011-05-04T12:59:00.000-07:00

Whilst flicking through this month's Vogue, I came across the new trend of dip dyed hair. For those not familiar with the likes of Drew Barrymore and Alexa Chung, the revelation is in the name - the hair looks as though it's been dipped into colour.

It's not a trend that can be carried off if the purse strings are tight. In fact, a dip dye disaster would surely ensue if DIY was attempted!

However, if done properly this offers a beachy-boho feel, fit for festival fashionistas looking for that undone and carefree yet on trend look.

Beautiful!

Megan Fox has the code

2011-03-02T12:08:00.000-08:00

Megan fox has been starring in the Armarni ads for a little while. Fox has now been announced as the 'Code woman' for Armarni code, adverts will be aired in March. I'm a huge fan of Megan Fox, she possesses a confidence and appeal that goes beyond what most actresses have to offer.

The simplicity of the Armarni Jeans ads and the glamour of the Code are feminine yet show her vixen edge.

Mario Testino shooting Britney Spears

2011-03-02T11:41:00.000-08:00

When the world thought Britney has lost her sex appeal, along comes Mario Testino with the Midas touch. Unequivocally, everything Testino touches turns to gold - his talents have seen him shoot the world's most beautiful models and the most extraordinary designers.

The photographs catch Spears in an ethereal light, denoting the dawn of a new chapter of her life. It seems Mario Testino is just what Britney needed.

I love Testino, the man is a genius!

Classy Christmas Offerings from Missguided

2010-12-11T17:10:00.000-08:00

The Jannis Sheer Flower Brooch detail dress in cream (£20.99) from Missguided offers a modern interpretation of a classic style. It exudes elegance yet can be worn anywhere, from a night out to the Christmas party or a romantic meal. Not many a dress can pass such a test! The sheer effect offers a sexy subtlety whilst the feminine drop of the dress gives a bohemian edge that sets it apart. Think classy rather than brassy.

Aussie Hair Care - Aussome Volume Mascot

2010-12-11T16:23:00.001-08:00

The Aussie Bloggers Christmas Market took place in London on 4th December. I played the role of the Aussome Volume Mascot and subsequently looked and sounded the part. My hair was styled into a 60's do by talented hair dresser, Eugene. The event saw fashion bloggers from in and around London attending, running their own stalls and taking part in a senses challenge, where the ingredients from Aussie Hair Care products had to be identified. The organisers certainly impressed with complimentary food and drink, a photobooth where the bloggers could capture their time at the event, talks on confidence, flirting, vintage fashion and how to make the most of their blogs. I took part in a basic boxing lesson with Sherin, certainly not your average event! The highlight of the event had to be the Aussie style tribes where Aussie Angels and bloggers identified which hair tribe they belonged to. They then had their hair styled by top stylists using Aussie products, a real treat!

More about the event can be seen at http://www.uncoveraussie.co.uk/ (picture taken from this site- Aussie hair mascots)

Shoe Heaven!

2010-11-08T13:29:00.000-08:00

Upper Street is the ultimate luxury for any shoe lover. Like many young girls I've envisaged designing my own shoes and Upper Street allows you to live that dream. The site allows you to choose your own style, shape, colour and even whether to include straps or embellishments. Gone are the days where you dream of your perfect shoe, only to become annoyed they don't exist. The site came into existence when shoe lovers and sisters Julia and Katy failed to find their perfect pump. Upper street provide such stunning craftsmanship, even a visit to the site stirs excitement. I can't think of a better gift!

Now every woman can embrace her inner designer.

Take a look at www.upperstreet.com

Stone is superb

2010-10-13T05:52:00.001-07:00

It's refreshing to see Dutch model Lara Stone on the cover of this month's Vogue magazine. Lara is the girl of the moment having fronted campaigns for Versace, Prada and DKNY to name a few. Known for the quirky gap in her teeth the ethereal, feminine looking Lara discloses how she was regected by the industry for a long time. The changing face of fashion means Lara is now an eminent face and is taking the industry by storm. Lara came at a time when the industry began to accept and embrace unorthodox ideals of beauty: not only does the gap in her teeth set her apart but she boasts envious curves. Having married British comedian David Walliams the unlikely pairing seem happier than ever!

You can't help but feel there's more to Lara than just outer beauty.

Bring on the glamour!

2010-08-23T15:28:00.000-07:00

After seeing sneak peaks of Cheryl Cole wearing a stunning red dress on the next x-factor programme I took to the net to find a glamorous red dress of my own. It seems the red dress is an old favourite of Cheryl's, she's been seen sporting them previously on the X-Factor, red carpet and even on the catwalk! Missguided’s Priya One Shoulder Dress In Red (£23.99) is beautiful, effortless yet chic. The one shoulder detail offers just the right amount of sexiness whilst maintaining glamour. I would wear this dress without accessories. Let the dress do the talking!

Mishmash Jewellery

2010-08-02T13:48:00.000-07:00

I've never been one to adhere to the rules of colour coding when it comes to fashion and it seems others are catching on. Mixing black and brown clothing or gold and silver jewellery- fashion faux pas or fashion précision?

Pandora's Sterling Silver Bracelet With 14K Gold Clasp mixes both metals effortlessly whilst maintaining the femininity one seeks in jewellery. Links of London offer a mixed metal bracelet appealing to those wanting more substance and weight in their pieces. Gone are the days when a gold ring can't comfortably sit alongside a silver watch, we're in a time where anything goes. Think Sarah Jessica Parker in multi coloured chains, Rhianna with a rock edge and Kristen Bell adding a touch of glamour to her adornment.

Mix it up.

Damon Baker

2010-07-18T16:00:00.000-07:00

Edgy, free thinking, daring, unreserved, cultivated. Just some of the ways to describe the work of London and New York based photographer, Damon Baker. His youth brings a determination and strong work ethic which drives his already successful passion.

Contemporary yet timeless, Damon's photography oozes quality and promises a reaction. Extraordinary.

Check out Damon's website

www.phototom.co.uk

2010-06-08T15:24:00.000-07:00

In their own words 'Phototom are South Wales based photographers focused primarily on wedding photography, portrait and fashion projects'.

Offering a multitude of photographic styles Phototom specialize in wedding photography, portrait and fashion shoots yet are also experienced in the more avant-garde, fashion shows and large events. Phototom Photographer Aga is warm and welcoming and having had her photograph myself i can comfortably say that any pre-shoot jitters were soon dissipated!

Take a look at Phototom's work:

www.phototom.co.uk

The Satorialist aka Scott Schuman

2010-05-31T10:18:00.000-07:00

I recall some time ago coming across The Satorialist aka Scott Schuman whilst reading Vogue. Known for photographing everyday people who take his fancy in the style stakes Schuman made a big name for himself, seeing a tarry of like minded photographers imitating his unique blog style. After being inspired by Mr Schuman's 'get up and do' attitude i rather intrepidly (i like to think) contacted him and asked for any advice or words of wisdom in his success. His response came:

'Thanks for your email.
I am glad you like the site.

My advice would be to focus on what you are good at.

s'

Rather good advice i believe. Take a look at The Satorialist's blog and be inspired.

http://thesartorialist.blogspot.com/

Style.com

2010-05-31T09:40:00.000-07:00

Whilst navigating my way around my partner's new ipad i found an app for Style.com, a profoundly informative fashion website to feed the appetite of any fashion hungry devotee. The app offers video footage from all the latest fashion shows from Galliano's ready to wear collections to the now more reserved couture offered by Christian Lacroix. If you're looking for a way to spend a day marvelling at exquisite creations from top designers, i couldn't think of a better place.

www.style.com

(Image- Melissa Tammerijn, Burberry Prorsum Fall 2010)

A Magazine with Edge

2010-05-23T12:57:00.000-07:00

Edge magazine is a Welsh fashion magazine aimed at the fashion aware and style enthusiast. With local fashion at the forefront of the magazine's ethos, it gives budding fashionistas tips on where to find the latest 'must haves'. True to its roots Edge Magazine showcases the talents of local photographers, models, stylists, hair stylists, make up artists and bloggers. Not only is the magazine laden with voguish edge and detailing the latest Fashion shows in Cardiff but it's completely free.

You can pick up your copy from Marks and Spencer stores or Capitol Centre, Cardiff.

St Moritz

2010-05-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

Named after a luxurious valley in Switzerland St Moritz self tanning mousse is a beauty secret. After being recommended to me by a friend, this is my new beauty indulgence for those nights when i want to relax in the bath, watch cringe worthy TV and take some 'me time'. When you first apply the mousse the colour is somewhat scary and a little patchy yet after showering the base colour off it leaves a rich golden tan. It costs as little as £2.99 and can be found in home bargain stores and Fragrance direct. My secret is revealed.

Maxi love

2010-05-23T11:29:00.000-07:00

I've spotted a lot of people wearing maxi dresses and even maxi skirts now that summer is making an appearance.

Arguably they make the wearer look stylish and in my opinion daring in their maxi venture. Yet it falls into the same category for me as the harem pant. You have the initial 'love at first sight' reaction, you make the purchase, wear them in the house and possibly to the shops once, then resign them to the back of the wardrobe until you feel daring enough to wear them again. Perhaps i'm destined to be a jeans and vest girl forever but maybe i will buy a maxi. In case i feel daring enough.

MissGuided's Brynn Halter Neck Floral Maxi Dress £25.99 is beautiful and light for summer.

Love Topshop Make up

2010-05-12T07:53:00.000-07:00

Topshop's new make up range is a fantastic new addition to the Topshop brand. The liquid metal crayons in gold and silver are high quality and add a luxurious summer feel to the eyes. The Lip Sticks offer a unique bright and long lasting colour and can even be sharpened to ensure longevity. Their funky packaging and low price tag will be sure to make them a huge hit!

Take a look on the Topshop website

http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?catalogId=19551&storeId=12556&categoryId=206987&langId=-1&top=Y

Missguided competition

2010-04-28T16:29:00.000-07:00

Missguided are offering customers the chance to win their favourite item from the website!

Simply click on the 'Like' button on the Missguided facebook page and write on their wall which item you would like to win and why.

Personally i would like to get my hands on the 'Tamsin floral dress in pink £24.99'. It's feminine, lightweight and perfectly suited for summer nights out.

http://www.missguided.co.uk/index.html

Rankin

2010-04-28T16:11:00.000-07:00

A Truely Talented photographer!

Rankin's work is so diverse, ranging from beauty to the surreal. As his bio states he 'doesn't shy away from difficult subject matter', often provoking negative reaction yet he beautifully captures the female form.

Take a look at his website and be amazed, shocked and intrigued.

http://www.rankin.co.uk/portfolio/beauty

Vintage isn't dead

2010-02-24T10:20:00.000-08:00

It's not often i come across shoes or clothing that quite literally stops me in my tracks yet as i stepped into Office yesterday i did just that. Office's Arthur Daily floral lace up pumps have a vintage yet girly feel; they could easily be mistaken for an item found at Clerkenwell's vintage fashion fair, exhibiting at London fashion week. Their classic presence offers the promise of 'comfort clothing' taking you back to your grandmother's head scarves and reminiscent of simpler times.

Elegant, stylish and unique.

Elly Snow

2010-02-18T14:44:00.000-08:00

Up and coming fashion designer Elly Snow was never one to fade into the background yet neither is she the eccentric oddity of a designer one might envisage. After studying Art and Design Elly, who is based in South Wales, is amidst a fashion design degree at Atrium, The Cardiff School of Creative & Cultural Industries. Ever the creative paradox, Elly’s designs exude elegance whilst being sporty and are wearable yet reeking of high fashion. From her earliest piece where Elly made a dress from her mother’s old shirt, her work has blossomed. Often photographed by her younger sister Elaine Snow, Elly considers her signature style to be the ruffled flowers she regularly uses.
Gaining inspiration from visualising her designs in print, Elly says with self-assurance and dedication that she aspires towards her own fashion label.

And it appears to be entirely possible.

Alexander Mcqueen

2010-02-11T13:02:00.000-08:00

Today sees a day where many a fashion lover feels a sadness over the loss of one of its greats. The founder and designer of the brand 'Alexander McQueen' has been and will continue to be the greatest inspiration to fascinated enthused designers everywhere. Lee McQueen, known as Alexander, created surrealist high fashion pieces surging from a fantasy world everyone wanted to be a part of.

And through his work he will continue to inspire.

“I kind of like it the way it is right now, ... I believe in that one-on-one sell. I don't really believe in flooding the market with loads of goods that don't mean much, and (you) lose your identity.”

Alexander McQueen

Avant Garde artistry - Casey Coleman

2009-12-30T07:45:00.000-08:00

When it comes to pushing creative boundaries outlets are endless. Painting, photography, fashion designing, hair styling. One wouldn't initially think of a hair stylist as being at the forefront of the outlandish but Casey Coleman dispels this view. Based in the contemporary hair salon, Ocean in Cardiff, Casey regularly immerses himself in the world of fashion and photo-shoots to stay ahead of the game.

Using props such as bird cages to create his hair styles, Casey certainly doesn't fade into the background offering a touch of the Avant-Garde. At 22, Casey who has a tattoo across his chest stating 'Fortune favours the bold' is brimming with eccentric concepts, with hair being incorporated into death, futurism and more recently nature. Following in the footsteps of successful hair stylists Antoinette Beenders and Trevor Sorbie it seems Casey's unrestrained creativity will make him a success.

After all.. fortune favours the bold.

www.oceanhair.co.uk
http://www.modelmayhem.com/MADUSAavantgardeHAIR

Lola likes... Lolita Lempicka

2009-12-14T16:10:00.000-08:00

mmm

The original Lolita Lempicka fragrance first introduced in 1997 is something of a fairytale fragrance and something i've only just been acquainted with. The purple apple bottle is exquisite and representative of the French fashion designer's unique style. Feminine, rich and dream-like this scent takes you on a whimsical journey. As over the top such a statement may seem, it has to be experienced to be believed. The designer has extended her creativity to her perfume bottles, little seen with most designer scents (Marc Jacobs excluded).

A collectors item in itself. Art work for the dressing room.

(Vanilla, liquorice and musk)

A poem that struck me

2009-12-09T14:50:00.001-08:00

I Do Not Love You Except Because I Love You
BY

Pablo Neruda

I do not love you except because I love you;
I go from loving to not loving you,
From waiting to not waiting for you
My heart moves from cold to fire.

I love you only because it's you the one I love;
I hate you deeply, and hating you
Bend to you, and the measure of my changing love for you
Is that I do not see you but love you blindly.

Maybe January light will consume
My heart with its cruel
Ray, stealing my key to true calm.

In this part of the story I am the one who
Dies, the only one, and I will die of love because I love you,
Because I love you, Love, in fire and blood.

Snuggle up

2009-11-19T13:05:00.000-08:00

...and so the winter blues are upon us! It seems a mist has engulfed us all and glum faces are all to be seen. It's cold outside and the days sit alongside the nights in their darkness...but it's not all doom and gloom! Winter is a comforting season. You can't beat a steaming hot chocolate in a cosy coffee house, sitting by the window and looking out at the cold. Snuggling up on your sofa with a duvet when it's crisp outside, the excitement Christmas brings, the romance of the street lights, sheepskin boots. Pushing luxury aside, it's the thought that the possibilities of next year could be amazing, spending time with your loved ones and not having to have a reason to be together. Winter is wonderful.

Grant Thomas - Photographer

2009-10-22T11:13:00.000-07:00

It's always nice to be introduced to the works of a talented photographer and Grant Thomas is just that. Not only does his work impress but his attitude is equally as determined, oh and did i mention he's just 16 years old? Having met Grant 6 months ago his work has come along enormously. It goes to show that no matter what age, if you have a passion and you commit to that passion you can succeed. With an impressive portfolio currently focusing on beauty images and a personality that screams determination it's difficult to comprehend his tender age.

Taking inspiration from the likes of Simon Pais Thomas, Tim Walker & Guy bourdin, Grant has given his all to the profession even moving to London from his home in Wales to follow his dreams. The poster boy for self taught style he rarely blends into the crowd and neither should he. His 'geek chic' glasses, floppy hair and proactive attitude all indicative of someone who has already hit the big time. And he will.

Take a look at Grant's work:

www.grant-thomas.daportfolio.com

Step by step make up

2009-10-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across the website of Amy Nadine and felt the need to share it. She's the make up artist of reality star and designer Lauren Conrad and uses her blog to give a 'how to' guide. It's somewhat refreshing for someone who has never been shown how to effectively apply make up to be given a dumbed down guide... especially from someone who is obviously doing well in her career. She's giving something back and inspiring future make up artists and creatives alike.

Not only does she describe how she made the lovely Lauren look quite so lovely but we are treated to something more high fashion and vogue inspired in her 'latest fashion story' shots taken by Tatijana Shoan (as shown above). She provides a mixture of reality and story book artisty and the pictures are just delicious!

Someone to follow! http://www.amynadinebeauty.com/

2009-10-22T08:11:00.000-07:00

When it comes to accessories the most effective way to express your personal style is wearing what you like. It may sound simple but so many people wear them for the sake of it and end up looking overloaded rather than because they enjoy them. I came across this website in my search for a headband with a feature to the side and i think it's charming!

http://www.vintageheaddresses.com/vintage_tiaras.html

Going vintage is a great way to be unique and it doesn't have to be expensive. If you make the accessory the focal point of your outfit you don't have to overspend on anything else. You may even be lucky enough to snap individual peices up in a charity shop or be given them by your mum or grandmother! Who cares if it looks like something from a fairytale... sometimes you need to feel like a princess!

Such a sound- MR Hudson and the library

2009-10-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

Now i'm not one to rave about music but i feel i must share this..

Ever since i first heard Mr Hudson and the library when they supported Amy Winehouse in concert i fell in love. I played the album 'A tale of two cities' in my bedroom and listened to it in the dark for hours. It's unlike any other sound therefore it's difficult to describe or to compare it to anyone else... why not listen yourself?

http://www.mrhudson.com/

This isn't some pathetic attempt to big up some group but to introduce you to someone who will surely become your favourite band. After that first introduction i have seen Mr Hudson at a small bar, which was such an amazing night. The bar was very small and slightly sweaty and after reciting every word my friend and myself (along with the rest of the crowd) ended up on stage dancing with the band. I saw them again at Glastonbury this year and couldn't resist shouting 'i love you' whilst holding back my tears as they played. Enough of my ranting.... listen and you'll understand.

I've got a picture of you, wherever i go
a sweet reminder of you to me
i'm never alone

Mr Hudson i love you

Mechanical watches

2009-10-22T05:26:00.001-07:00

Mechanical watches!

I'm in love with watches at the moment and in particular ones which allow you to see the mechanical workings. I bought my PWC London watch from TkMaxx and i receive at least one compliment every day! It cost me fifty quid but looks far more expensive. You don't need to pay through the roof for a great watch despite popular opinion (and that of my partner in particular who despite buying it from ebay thinks his armarni watch is real). The first mechanical watch i received was a pocket watch my dad brought home from his job as a handyman, they were throwing it out and he jumped at the opportunity to bring it home. I think there's something fascinating about them, something classical that transports you back about a hundred years. They almost look like something your great grandad would wear. I've been looking everywhere for similar ones as they've seemed to dissappear from TKMaxx. Take a look here...

http://www.gpwc.co.uk/pocket_watch_company_london

If you manage to find any similar let me know.. They add a touch of class and sophistication yet in a masculine way. I promise you won't be dissappointed... I'm in love with them!

2009-10-22T05:09:00.001-07:00

Recession Fashion

It seems in times of hardship it’s imagination and hope that pull people through. Fashion is certainly no different. Look back to the Second World War when women were restricted in their grooming habits and attire by rationing. Yes they could no longer buy their fur coats oozing with connotations of richness and sensuality but they made what efforts they could. With gravy browning on the legs passing as stockings and the motto ‘make do and mend’ prevailing, this was the time when the real fashionistas lit the way.

Today is no different. With the likes of Scott Schuman and Independent Fashion Bloggers offering fashion blogs laden with luscious fashions to salivate over, we can forget our financial woes. So before looking at that reminder you haven’t paid the last electricity bill (when you’ll hit reality with a less than elegant bump) imagination can prevail. For in your corner of the room when it’s just yourself and your laptop, (Vogue, Elle or Cosmo if the funds allow you) you can be a budding fashion stylist, model, blogger or fashionista depending on where your aspirations take you. Scott Schuman has made this accessible and attainable in his belief that it’s the little things that make the difference.

Take the shoulder pad as a seemingly bizarre example. A true symbol of practicality juxtaposed with vintage Dior- like status. Along with the likes of tweed and suede it’s a holster for the designers who grace our catwalks, a simple mark of quality marking a time of economic hardship. The military cut being popular in the Second World War has somehow reinvented itself today. Even Vogue magazine is encouraging readers to fix moth eaten clothing by sewing shoulder patches over them!

Not that the likes of our fashion icons, the Lilies (Donaldson and Cole) need these techniques of stylish escapism for they live and breathe it, on the catwalk and in their daily lives. But for the rest of us, our minds can create this marvellous reverie if but for half an hour. From putting gravy on your legs, customising diminishing clothing, to cuddling up in a corner and enveloping yourself in a stylish world, in times like these it seems, creativity raises its beautiful head.

Fingerless and fearless

2009-10-22T04:49:00.000-07:00

Woolies, knits, hats, scarves and gloves. All cosy and provoking images of steaming cups of hot chocolate or a wrapped up individual defying the bitter cold winter weather. Then along comes the fingerless glove. Fingerless and glove in the same sentence. Some may say it's impractical and defeating the very reason gloves are worn in the first place but i say BLOODY BRILLIANT. Think Kate Moss, Alexa Chung, Cheryl Cole (i'm sick of hearing her name too)... they add that 'i'm a carefree student and life has endless possibilities' feel to the day. They almost give me the same feel as when i got the top of my ear pierced...a little bit of rebellion, a refusal of obediance to the neat leather lovelies worn by the designer lover in an attempt to ooze a bit of class. I'm the type of person who feels somewhat restricted in thick clothes, polo necks, wooly jumpers, hell even gloves. Is it just me? then again i am the type of person who can't sit on a bus without feeling sick (i think it's the close proximity of the passengers who are sure to be sharing their flatulence and germs). The point here is that fingerless gloves offer warmth and freedom to your digits whilst adding a certain carefree bohemian style that is difficult to give off with most other accessories.

...and all that from a glove!