Fashion Donut

January 2012 Glossybox

2012-02-05T06:21:00.000-08:00

After the December 2011 Glossybox dissappointed me, I thought I would cancel my subscription. The website seems to have a lot of flaws as well which really doesn't help in convincing me that I need to keep up with the monthly boxes. I completely forgot that the subscription is renewed by itself and ended up ordering two boxes, to also then find out when I contacted the customer services team that there is simply nothing you can do about it, unless you return one of the boxes unopened. I hope that they end up fixing this in the end, also the problem with glossy points( the website has a system that allows you to review the products you've received and in return you get glossy dots which are points that accumulate over time and you can use these in the end to get a free Glossybox)-umm I've definitely reviewed my last two boxes before this one and yet I seem to have no glossydots! I have complained about this to also not get a response. This is not cool Glossybox, not cool at all.

Anyways, the point of this post is not to slate and point out everything wrong with Glossybox, as I think the concept is a really great one, but rather to review the product that comes with it every month.

So here are two photos taken by moi of the two boxes I received this month.

I know these are kind of crap photos. Yes I needed the instagram effects to make them look slightly nicer...(I may even have to add to my 12 for 2012 to learn how to photograph things much nicer!)

Here are a few close up of the products I have already tested and my reviews of them:

Davines Authentic Moisturizing Balm:

This product is made for use on face, body and in your hair. Lovely packaging. I am yet to try it in my hair but have tried it on my body and face to find a soothing feel, a slight scent of lavander left on my skin. The balm is made 99% of natural derived ingredients with organic carthame oil. Natural derived does not mean natural. The product is free from parabens, artificial colours, silicons and peg. This is definitely a plus. I also enjoyed the fact that the sample in the Glossybox wasn't a sample size but a rather full size product. Once I've used this in my hair as well, I will write a full review of this and pick out my favourite use of it. I did realise after using it on my face as instructed,my skin had a nice fresh feel and a nice glow - free of the dust and dirt of the city, my clogs felt unclogged. 7/10- so far, will update the score once tested on hair!

Orly Ruby Nail Polish:

I love nail polish. The three brands you will always find in my make up bag is Chanel, Essie and O.P.I. I've always wanted to try Orly nail polish but sometimes I think " if it ain't broke, don't fix it" so I end up not trying new brands. I was very excited to see this nail polish in my Glossybox. Finally, my chance to try the brand out and come to my own conclusion without having to pay the full price for the nail polish. Ruby red is one of my staple nail colours too! I was happy to see they didn't fill the box with random colours one would never wear, but a safe and classic choice such as this deep, dark shade of red. My verdict? Easy to apply, lovely shiny finish, thick colour which means that two coats are enough. Just like any other red nail polish, this did chip easily. This for me is always a given with red nail polish though, I know I will have to reapply or cover up chips almost every day. I think this tester will mean I will end up buying more Orly nail polish in the future. 8/10

Fab Gentle Body Wash:

This promises to be a moisturizing, irritant free everyday cleanser ideal for even the most sensitive skin. I also have to agree with this. I really enjoyed using this, I even used it on my face and found the results great. I also have two samples of this so will keep using it until both run out. 9/10

Murad Hybrids Skin Perfecting Primer - Dewy Finish:

This just wouldn't photograph. So sorry. It came in a lovely folded cardboard box which I threw away, perhaps I should have kept it to photograph. Shoulda,woulda,coulda! Anyways, This oil-free primer is said to "ignite a radiant glow, powered by light enchancing minerals. I was really excited about trying this product as Murad is one of those other brands I have always wanted to test out but didn't want to dish out the money to then be disappointed and broke. I have to say, the dark shade of this first scared me as it was seriously darker than my ivory skin. I applied my usual Chanel Hydramax moisturizer on, then dabbed this lightly all over my face...to find out I don't even need foundation when I use this! On closer inspection of my cheeks, I also realised the little light reflecting minerals it left on it. I had a healthy, radiant glow as promised. The full size 30ml primer is £29. If you're a Glossybox subscriber, you can get this with 33% discount with the code that came with your box. I will keep using this until it runs out to decide if I should go purchase one. Again, I have two of these so .... 8.5/10

Davines Cleansing Nectar - Hair / Body

Again another multipurpose product from Davines. I have still to try this on my hair as well but I immediately fell in love with the packaging as I lifted it out of my Glossybox. This is defined as a hair/ body oil shampoo. So it might be just what my hair needs these days. For use on the body, I give this a 7/10 as well. I didn't want to waste all of this on my body as I tend to get a lot of bath products in my Glossyboxes, and I would rather get some more beauty products for hair and make up. So the full review of this one will have to wait until I try it on my hair.

Visit www.glossybox.co.uk to order your own Glossybox and test your own products!

12 for 2012.

2012-02-05T05:39:00.001-08:00

I am back with the second 12 for 2012 post of the year.

Looking back at my first 12 for 2012 post, I can reveal that I've manage to tick no 10 off my list. I re read "The Great Gatsby" and "Enchantment" the life of the lovely Audrey Hepburn who never stops to astonish me.

Bare with me as we all know January is a dry month, you're broke, you're blue....well being broke more than anything made me not indulge in all the things I really wanted to indulge in. It's also not the season for some of the things I listed in the first 12.

So here are my next 12 wants / wishes for 2012:

1. A completely retro outfit.

I think this Topshop Petite sundress could be the main ingredient in this along with some red lipstick, bouncy curls or a bow in my pony tail, a nice suede belt around the waist, some cute mules or ankle strap shoes and a cute little cardigan in a pastel shade.

image via Topshop.com

2.To wear my heels more. I've realised over the last three years, my heels which used to take centre stage in my outfits have taken a back seat for more comfortable flats and sneakers. I reckon when the sunshine and warmth finds it way back to us, my heels will have to wake up from their hibernation. I have more heels than flats, therefore I should be wearing more heels than flats. Simple as that.

3. To create my own cocktail. Selfishly name it after me. Yes really. The BF and I seriously got into mixology by the end of last year,I reckon, if I can mix textures, colours, prints to make outfits, I can mix drinks to make me a cocktail!

4.To bump into a long lost friend in a total random location and catch up with them. I feel like this hasn't happened to me for a while now, where as before it used to be a usual occurrence. This one is one I really cannot control so might have to update you at the end of the year on this one.

5. Bake more. I haven't baked at least for a year now I think. I used to make lovely carrot cakes, walnut & raisin cakes, banana bread, chocolate cakes, cupcakes, tiramisu, you name it - I baked it. I just cannot eat what I bake that's the key rule for this wish!

6. Take more bubble baths. I had one a couple of weeks ago and remembered how relaxing the experience is. The soothing bubbles, the lovely aromas, a good ol' read, and maybe a glass of vino if you're that kinda gal. I might try this with a glass of bubbly to celebrate something. Celebrate anything!

7.Create more DIY clothing and accessories. Again, this was something I used to indulge in a lot before. Especially because I am a petite gal who always finds it hard to find clothes that fit properly. Why not continue making my own?

8.Invest in kitchen staples. The fastest way to get to that dream home you've always wanted is to start rounding up the smaller elements that make that house a dream home. So why not start by gathering the things that will make it lovely? This was something I started last year, I got some lovely crystal wine glasses (red and white) and some tumblers, and a nice crystal jug that all still sit boxed up waiting for the house to come around...it will one day so I might as well continue!

9. Start writing reviews of my monthly Glossy boxes. I signed up for the website last November and started receiving their monthly luxury samples to be tested and reviewed. My favourite box so far has been January, the one I accidentally ordered two of ( not complaining too much on this front though!) I think I may just write the review for my last one today too and as long as I keep this up, I will be able to tick this wish off the list!:)

10. Wear more vest tops, get my arms out. Now, this one will be hard one for me as my arms are one of the parts of my body I am really conscious about. It seems to be the part of my body that holds the most weight. For me to get them back out, I will seriously have to have kicked off some weight.

11. Use Facetime a lot more. This way, seeing old far away friends will not be too hard!

12. Get a spray tan. I am pale as a ghost, it takes me two weeks to get some colour which then fades away in 3 days. I've tried self tanners, have used them, but I've never tried a spray tan. I've been told I look good with a tan ( probably because I've never really gone orange with the tanners I've used but rather a glowing bronze colour, one I don't even really get after sitting out in the sun!)I think I may need a friend to do this with me. A hand to hold for the daunting process of standing in your bikini in front of a complete stranger still scares me (talk about insecure hey?) so a friend who has some experience in the process who can stand there with me and can join me for a cocktail afterwards seems like a good deal. I can always write about my spray tan experience afterwards too. Any recommendations in central London are highly welcome too!

Burger & Lobster

2012-02-05T05:06:00.001-08:00

This Saturday saw the first snow fall in London of the season. What was I doing when the snow hit? Enjoying a delicious grilled lobster at Burger & Lobster. Was I taking photos? Nope of course not, so again another post with images not belonging to myself. The writing is still all me though...

I assumed that like any other restaurant in London that has no reservations policy, you would pitch up at B&L and have to wait for at least 30 mins...We've seen it happen at Meatliqour ( out in the cold), we've seen it happen at Spuntino, Mishkin's etc....

This time, we went prepared. Yes, we left the house at 6pm to be there slightly before 6:30pm and were told ( after seeing a two page list in the hands of the front of house) that it would probably take 30 minutes until a table was ready for us and we were swished away to the bar to enjoy an drink before we dug into our chosen Burger or Lobster....or Lobster Roll. The bar menu was simple, sounded yummy...there was the famous Aperol spritzer (aka. Aperitif) made with Prosecco, Aperol, lemons and oranges and a hint of verbana and more Burger and Lobster paired cocktails, wines and fizz. By the time we decided on what we wanted to enjoy until we could get to our table, we were swished away to our table again! This meant, I didn't have a chance to try the Aperitif . Once we sat at our table, we were given the same drink menus and asked for our choice of food " Burger, Lobster or Lobster Roll?", which was all explained to us thoroughly - yes it is quite simple, but you still need the explanations as there are some variations on the burgers and lobsters on offer.. We opted for the grilled Lobsters with two "Summer of loves".

One thing I realised was that the drinks menu given to us at the bar priced the cocktails at £10 per cocktail, the same menu given to us at our table said £9 per cocktail. Cheeky? Yes. Didn't dwell on it too much as we were obviously going to get it at the cost of £9 now rather than £10 if ordered at the bar.

Our lobsters arrived in no time. They come garnished with a little salad pot, and fries. We even got an extra pot of fries! I figured, they looked at me and thought now that girl is never going to be full with just one pot of fries(!)... Now back to the star of the show, a very deliciously cooked Lobster with just the perfect lemon & herb butter - I didn't use much of the butter, trying to be healthy and all, but you didn't need much of it to add some more flavour to the juicy lobster meat anyways. You're offered bibs with your lobsters, as it makes me feel like I am 3 years old again I had to say no. After all, a fashionista would never be seen with a bib unless its lace and part of a Prada dress, non?

Summer of love? A very yummy long cocktail. Really gives the feeling of summer, I felt like I should be at a beach sipping it to enjoy it fully.

The only thing I would like to point out is that the fries that came alongside our lobsters, the same ones that creep their way onto your plate if you're having a burger or a lobster roll is VERY salty. They really don't have to be that salty...maybe its a trick to get you to drink more? Who knows. They've kind of ruined perfectly fine fries- we also didn't finish the additional extra pot of fries that ended up on our plates because of this reason.

After a very tiring battle with the lobster to get all the juicy flesh out, we ended up getting another cocktail instead of dessert. Bull & Bear was our choice this time. This cocktail is intended to be drunk alongside one of B&L's 10 oz burger...I completely understand why, as the first sip reveals the deep, oaky taste of Whisky with an aftertaste of berry medley in your mouth. Strong? Yes. You must sip this wisely if enjoying it by itself or you know the wobbly knees will be back very soon!

Half way through our drinks, the BF realised he is actually not full. I kind of figured this would be the case. A lobster may be big enough to fill me up these days, but for a man who eats man size portions and meals, well, he would need something more substantial on the side to fill him up - oh and he was DIPPING his lobster into his butter unlike the rather sliverish drizzles I was pouring on it. He asked about the desserts on offer to the really helpful staff ( I think its been a while since I've gone to one of the "hotspots" of London to find such smiley and helpful staff!).

As simple as the menu, they had two desserts on offer. Lime mousse with ginger cookie crust ( which was more of a sprinkle of ginger cookie!) and coffee and chocolate mousse. He opted for the lime one as it seems to have more substance than just coffee and chocolate...but really there was no substance, just some very good tasting creamy mousse- nothing that will make you feel full afterwards.

The real upside of this place is, well its £20 for all - burger,lobster, lobster roll. Even though a £20 burger sounds expensive, a £20 lobster is cheap - this might explain why a lot of the people I saw there were eating Lobsters:) . If I go back, I'm checking out the Lobster roll with the mystical sounding Japanese mayo... it def looked delicious too with its home made grilled brioche, I can already feel the fat creeping onto my thighs!

We all know what a burger, and what a lobster looks like so the only images I am going to have to borrow for this post is the lovely illustrations from the Burger & Lobster website.

Tapas and Wine? A girl should never say no

2012-01-22T11:39:00.000-08:00

I spent my Friday evening with a group of friends at Tapa Room, the Providores.

I love my wine, but I am not as knowledgeable on New Zealand wine so it also seemed like the perfect place and time to test it all out and come to my own verdict. I tend to go for red wine, especially in winter but this time the company demanded white so we went on a trip through New Zealand with the lovely wines on offer.

Sweet, sweet Riesling - almost sweet enough to be dessert wine, some infamous New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, and some Pinot Gris wines....this all seemed like the perfect way to end the week.

Of course, all this drinking couldn't go down without being accompanied by some food. We opted for one of the sharing platters. The Tapa plate consisting of grilled chorizo, babaganoush, fig & orange preserves, cheese, bread and marinated olives. I really couldn't fault it to be honest with you. I enjoyed every mouthful and my favourite bit was probably the marinated olives.

Now I was rubbish with photos yet again, so here is one from the diningexperience.org to add some colour and visuals to this post. I suppose I also now have another reason to go back to the Tapa Room again- the next time I will taste more wines and photograph it all.

The only down side about this place? Well you may feel like you are in a sardine can as its a bit crammed inside, but I guess this also proves its popularity.

Men,men,men....

2012-01-21T08:48:00.000-08:00

I've been a bit preoccupied this last week or so with Milan and Paris Men's Shows. I absolutely love tailoring, I love everything that makes up a man's wardrobe. Think there is so much beauty in men's dressing that is normally missed. From materials to the tiny details of a pair of cufflinks or the buttons on a waistcoast. Anyways,here are my top picks for men's AW12 fashion from Milan and Paris....

The dark, sinister and tailored Ferragamo

Power dressing at Yves Saint Laurent

The gentlemen from Burberry Prorsum

all images via style.com

La Vie Boheme...

2012-01-15T06:35:00.000-08:00

Lounge Bohemia.

You must go there. Must try the Old Castro and the Bubble Bath Martini pictured above.

I am too tired from drinking all the great cocktails so my review is very short.

Pretentious? Yes. They have a tasting menu which you only find out about when you are there but this has to be ordered 24 hours in advance in order for it to be prepared - Stupid? Yes! As their website gives nothing away except the number you have to text to reserve your table.

Pricey? Yes. It's worth it only because the cocktails are so good. The service is questionable - the BF's martini glass had red lipstick stains on it. They didn't do anything about it - the right thing to do would have been to take that drink off our tab.

Cool atmosphere? Yes. I felt like I was in an underground bar in Czechoslovakia back in the 60s. I love the kitsch furniture.

Creative, awesome tasting drinks?YES! There as a worm in another one of our drinks - that was supposed to be there though!

My overall rating : two thumbs up but check your glasses before you sip away at your drinks.

Just want some pretty photos to look at...

2012-01-10T13:24:00.000-08:00

so here they are.

Ahhh...feel so much more serene and calm already! I am really sad again though for the fact that I cannot give credit where credit is due. I hope you enjoy them. If you know who any of these images belong to please let me know and I will add the credis.

Beautiful Python Shoes...

2012-01-10T13:04:00.000-08:00

So you remember those lovely burgundy python Alexander Birman's I ordered off Net-a-Porter? Well they have arrived!Check these beauties out:

They're absolutely beautiful. The sheen and course yet smooth texture of the python, the deep rich colour. The sexy and plain silhouette. I love them. I am also very sad to say I have to return them as my left toes felt like there was no blood flow. Boohoo. I sure hope they find a lovely home.

Bye, bye shoes!

Reality.

2012-01-10T12:50:00.000-08:00

As you may or may not have guessed, I do work in the fashion industry. -DAAAAHHLLIINNGG, OF COURSE! Yes.
As I am writing this , I am sipping a Lilt ( yes, not very fashiony! but it is Lilt Zero, after all have to be careful with all the post holiday weight that has been put on) and smoking. This behaviour by itself may somehow define how the "insiders" in this industry are or are not. Breaking the stereotypes, or building them further. Yes. A lot of us do smoke. I am in no way encouraging it, but it does happen. Not for the fact that we want to be stick insects but merely a result of excessive socialising, excessive "daaaahhliinnggs" screamed across rooms for some, and well - merely for the fact that is a competitive industry and things get stressful. You may be thinking where is this girl going with this post? Well. Let me tell you.

This video landed in my inbox today:

Sh*t Fashion Girls Say from StyleCaster on Vimeo.

It made me LAUGH. I actually got stomach knots and tears in my eyes at some point. It made me want truffle fries-OMG!haha the last comment is a joke to be honest.I absolutely loved this video. It made me think about the people around me, and myself. Are we really like this? Well, i think my office is very laid back and full of unpretentious, funny, down to earth people. There may be people like this out there, I am yet to really cross paths with them but suffice to say I don't think we'd get on all too great. They may be a lot of fun though, so who knows? We do do the OTT O.M.Gs, the STFUs and the "Daaaahhliingss" but generally as a joke. Oh I forgot the air kisses! Haha. Like I said, there may be people like this out there in the industry, but then I think there are divas in all different industries - no? I do hear my banker friends, my accountant friends - you know, all those people earning a trillion $$ more than you in a year still complaining about the b*tches and the divas so I think its a universal thing. In every office, the laws of probability will mean there will be at least one b*tch / diva. If you're lucky, you will have a lot more of the fun, cool types you get along with and they soon become some sort of a family to you. Maybe I am an optimist who always wants to see the good in people. No matter what, I have to say I do love this industry. It's always a learning experience and always keeping you on your toes.Oh gosh...I hope I haven't given away too much too early with this post. You still want to know more about me don't you? Or are you going to stop reading this just because you know I work in fashion? I will get back to my superficial, but oh so pretty posts now. This has been too much of a personal one but I think also a post that was needed.P.s. I have a few more funny fashion industry related videos that will be appearing on my blog.

Cat Eyes

2012-01-08T11:55:00.000-08:00

I love the glamour of cat-eye eyeliner. It instantly opens up your eyes, adds a bit of sex appeal. I've been a supporter of the "little flick" probably for at least the last ten years if not longer. Over this time period, I've tried various eye liners, various methods and have come to a few conclusions.

1. No matter how steady your hand is, liquid eye liner + flick = takes years of practice to perfect.

2. Wet eyeshadow is a perfectly good way of replicating this look with a sleeker outcome.

Here are my tips and tricks for this timeless classic look:

Bobbi Brown's Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner applied with its brush. On a shaky day, I may even first outline the line with wet eyeshadow then go over it with the gel liner to perfect.

image via selfridges.com

Any black eyeshadow. Right now I am using a Sleek palette which comes with a black eyeshadow. This is perfect for using as a liner by itself - yes it does need at least two layers but who cares?

For the perfect flick, follow the contour of your eye and add the flick once you have lined both eyes. The most annoying thing is to have done one eye perfect and then not getting the second one right. You know once you wipe that one line off, you'll never get it back and it will never be as good as the first time around!

When using eyeshadow make sure you have an eye contouring brush to line with, don't try it with any other brushes as none of them have the same angle and stiffness.

I like to dust across a non shimmery boney colour across my lids before I line to avoid messing up the line. It also adds a polished touch.

Make sure to start with a thin end closer to the inside of your eye, don't start with a big blotch in the middle, and gradually add volume to your line.

12 for 2012.

2012-01-08T11:05:00.000-08:00

I've decided 12 is a lucky number.Why? No clue really, maybe its the optimism that hits you at the start of each year and the hope that drives you to think that it will be a good year, better than the last. To be fair though, 2010 was tough, 2011 was better, so just by deductive logic and following this simple pattern; I have to say that 2012 will be good. I think I have to. After all, its only been 8 days into the New Year.

So what better way to start the year by creating a wishlist, a lustlist - or just a list. No matter what anyone says, by anyone I mean me : I sometimes kick up a fuss and moan about lists and creating lists - lists are a wonderful way of putting things into perspective. A few bullet pointed lines, a mere collection of simple words all telling a story. My list is of 12 items is going to tell the story of what I want in my life for 2012. I think I might actually aim to do this every month. 12 items for each month-yup, this sounds like a great plan. Might have to create a list later on of things I want for my blog too....anyways....here's the first list:

1. A pair of Louboutin Pigalles- just love the shape!

images via coolspotters.com

2.Clarisonic Mia- after all, I ain't getting any younger. Must start taking care of my skin.

image via Selfridges.com

3.iPad - hopefully the 3rd generation will be out this year and well I need one.

image via thetechcheck.com

4.Dinner by Young Turks at the Ten Bells. The collective will be cooking across from Spitalsfield market until the end of February 2012. What are the chances that we'll get a table? I think pretty close to 0.01% as I've tried before already, been trying since October when the pop up launched.

image via youngturks.co

5.Travel to two cities I've never been before. I don't know where yet.

6.Neon Statement Necklace. When it comes to jewelry, I generally love to have one big statemen piece on. I have a vast collection of statement rings but no nearly enough statemen necklaces. I think a neon one will be a nice addition to my jewelry collection. Here are a few for inspiration until I find the right one:

all images via net-a-porter.com

7. Visit the Damien Hirst exhibition at the Tate

image via wikipaintings.org

8.Visit the Chelsea Flower Show. I feel like an old lady as I type this out but I've never been!

image via telegraph.co.uk

9. A proper girly weekend. Perhaps a spa treatment followed by shopping, drinks, dinner and dancing? I'm blessed with some truly amazing friends and eventhough we've become much better at meeting up since the last six months, I think we need to dedicate a whole weekend to our friendship. God that sounds cheesy! Hopefully N.I. will move to London soon and we can tick this one off my list. Haha...this post is my way of checking if you are reading my blog, cheeky I know!

10.Read at least two books a month. My recent hefty Amazon order should help take care of this one...only if it finally arrives!!!

11. Find my perfect pair of jeans and wear them to death! Those who know me well, know that I don't wear jeans or trousers. I've decided this is going to change for 2012 as I will find my perfect pair and enjoy it to bits.

12. Save up and take a trip to Bicester Village. Yup. I went last year, but hadn't saved up properly. This time I am going to SPLURGE. It's all going to be worth it. I hope this trip can be taken with friends too. Hopefully S.R. and N.I again.

OK this is my first 12 for 2012 post. Stayed tuned until next month's.

Stuff and co.

2012-01-08T09:38:00.000-08:00

The Random Loves page of my blog is for random photos, quotes, videos I love. In a way, it's my very own tumblr. I've been digging through my archived imagery this weekend to find a lot of random photos I have saved over the years. Now I have some use for them and a way to keep them all in one place and share with ohers. Sadly, I cannot credit these images either as I don't remember where they're all from. If you do please leave a comment and I will give credit where credit is due as none of it is mine.

This post is going to be in all shades of pink...just because I want it to be!

Hope you've enjoyed all the lovely imagery.

Me.

2012-01-08T05:26:00.000-08:00

For those of you that don't know me. I am assuming that's about 99% of you. I am a fashionable girl trying to get used to the tech age. This blog, as stated in the title, is full of snippets of my life, my loves, my purchases and my thoughts. This is me, settling into my life. What do I mean by that? Simple. Until, 2003 I've had a mystical life - by that I mean one full of exotic places, travelling and new encounters. Since then, I've settled into London and found my place to call home. Now that I have a center, I branch out into different things. I've found a way that I enjoy life. This blog reflects it. I also have tips, cause we all love beauty tips, hair tips etc! I've been crap with cameras before but this blog is going to change it. I'm going to snap away! I think over time, I might even start unveiling more about me. Like what I do in my not-so-spare time! Like what I've done before 2003 and after 2003 that's made it all so special. Mostly, this blog is a place for me to get my thoughts down and record. Even if not for your eyes and liking, it will be for mine. I still hope that you enjoy it!

Posh Catch Up...

2012-01-08T03:48:00.001-08:00

Here is my second review. A posher restaurant this time. Greenhouse. I believe it has one Michelin star? Correct me if I am wrong. I used to think they had two. Maybe they lost one? I've been there twice and I think both experiences were roughly the same (first one being over a year ago).

The restaurant is described as "The Greenhouse restaurant offers an oasis of calm in the heart of Mayfair, where creative European cuisine emerges from a classical French background" based on their website. I definitely think it is that. Calm, serene, beautiful and French.

I had a nightmare of a journey there from work that day. My office is based in W1, but of course at 6pm could not find a cab there. I decided to walk in my 6 inch heels. Ouch. Not only were my feet killing me by the time I got there (p.s. this lovely little restaurant is in a hidden cove somewhere in Mayfair- I still couldn't tell you how I got there so please take a cab!) but my strapless dress decided to give up on me when I put it on in the office and my zip broke! Luckily, working in an office full of fashionistas, one of them came to my rescue and safety pinned me into my dress. Good thing I had my blazer with me to cover the pins up too! This experience could have gone either of two ways - a disaster with my boobs popping out my dress during my six course tasting meal, or a lovely evening with the BF midweek. Luckily, things started looking up when I finally arrived at my destination after a 40 min walk in the heels to be greeted with some champagne and everything went smoothly from that moment onwards. Yes! The pinned on dress stayed up for the whole night! Considering that the six course meal was six courses, all paired with their own wine plus the champagne to begin with - I would say that is some very good pinning!

Again, I am very crap and don't have any photos. Here is a photo just to add some colour to this post from Harpersbazaar.co.uk
The Harpersbazaar.co.uk review is for vegetarian friendly restaurants and yes the restaurant certainly is. They still had enough meat for a carnivore like me!

The first time I went to the Greenhouse, I found the food very feminine, delicate and elegant. I was glad to see that this hadn't changed. As we went for the wine pairing with the meal, the sommelier brought some wines that were very familiar to us - our recent trip to Bordeaux (well July 2011) really helped us move up a notch or two on the wines even though we were pretty into it before hand too. It's very peculiar maybe, but having wines that we'd tasted before and familiar with was very nostalgic and felt homely. Since I started this post, all I've been thinking about is the dessert. The infamous Snix. Well, its infamous in our world. As the BF and I had it on our last visit too and we were so glad to see it on our tasting menu too! As the name suggests, its the posh version of a snickers bar. Oh my, I have to say that posh is definitely better! I don't think I've had a snickers bar since nor have I craved it, but I have craved the Snix numerous times. Suffice to say, after a dress that was pre busted before the meal - I probably should not be indulging so much!

I sadly couldn't find any great photos of the Snix but luckily An American in London had a photo:
You can also read their review of the restaurant by clicking on the name.

Eventhough I chose Greenhouse for that evening (the BF was spoiling me and said choose wherever... options included where Marcus Waering, Greenhouse) and I am glad I did. I know for a fact that Marcus Waering would have been great too - like my previous visits, or perhaps the Ledbury. I am really glad that I chose Greenhouse. It's a restaurant that's started to feel homely for us. Even the over the top Frenchness of this place doesn't put me off.

Add it to your list of restaurants to discover in London!

Trying to play catch up...

2012-01-08T03:25:00.000-08:00

I thought I would post up about the last two restaurants I have visited in London to get this side of my blog going.

First new conquer is MEATliquor. The first standalone restaurant from the owners of the MEATwagon.

I think the restaurant is the only good thing that came out of the phenomenon that was 11.11.11 (so last year daaarllinng! as we have Olympics and the end of the world to look forward to this year)

Anyways, back to the good bits. By that, I mean the yumminess of the food and drinks served at MEATliquor. I am sad to say that I cannot take credit for any of the photos on this post. I didn't have a camera with me, and well I still have to get used to using a camera in places if I am to keep this blog up!

Sorry ...Off track again! So let me break it down.

Food: The BF and I went all out and ordered mac & cheese, onion rings, fries, fried pickles (yum!) and buffalo wings with blue cheese to alongside our burgers. (Fatsos!)We wanted to get a well rounded view of how the food was, and I can assure you - we definitely did!

The burgers are juicy, tender, succulent and SO tasty that I can say they are the best burgers I have had in London by far! As for our huge order of sides the only thing that let us down was the mac & cheese. This was a bit watery and not as full of flavour as the other dishes. Plus the lack of crunchy crust on the outside was a bit let down too. Its safe to say we didn't eat all of it. The shortcomings of the mac & cheese were soon overtaken by the yumminess of the fried pickles, onion rings and the incredibly crispy shoestring fries.

Here are some images of the food from MEATliquor I found online. As mentioned before, I was crap and didnt photograph anything so this is all from the web.

The pickyglutton has already posted the buffalo wings and fried pickles together so all credit is due to them:

Also the burgers:

Pickyglutton also had photos of the fries, but I am pretty sure we had shoestring fries similar to that of Spuntino when we were there. Perhaps they changed their recipe?

Now onto the drinks! Oh how we loved the drinks there. We had grog, silver angel, some very lovely strawberry and gin based drink - yes I am getting old, cannot even remember what it was called! We also had something else to top it all off, suffice to say that may be the reason why I cannot remember. The grog and the mystery strawberry/gin drink was the best by far though!

My only problem with MEATliquor is (hate to end this post on a bad note but I have to) is the ridiculous waiting time and the service. I won't go into too much detail, as it might be because of the time we arrived etc cand how busy they were but I think they definitely need more staff. The cool, dark laid back atmosphere definitely is unique but just because the atmosphere is so, doesn't mean the staff necessarily has to be! Anyways, thats the end of my rant! I think everyone should still visit MEATliquor. The tastiness of that burger, fried pickles and buffalo wings makes up for all the shortcomings!

Hairspiration

2012-01-07T12:29:00.001-08:00

I think your hair says a lot about yourself. Many girls will agree, if not all, that your hair can affect your mood too.

I am not adventourous when it comes to my hair. I have stick straight hair but I love a bit of volume and waves. Hair colour is the only thing about my hair I get more adventourous about.

Here is some hairspiration-hair inspiration:) followed by my a mini review of my two favourite hair products.

I cannot sadly credit the images as I have had them saved on my laptop for ages so don't remember where they are from.

I don't think I get my hair trimmed as much as I should but I always make sure to take care of it. I recently discovered Philip Kingsley's Elasticizer which is like a miracle in a pot! I rub a small amount into my hair after shampooing and let it rest for a few minutes then rinse out. My hair is silky soft and full of shine at the end of the treatment. I definitely feel the difference when I don't use it as my hair is not as manageable, not as soft. I highly recommend this to all hair types. I have quite fine hair but a lot of it, and it doesn't cause any build up.

image via amazon.com

You can also purchase the 150 ml pot for for £24.41 via Amazon.

I also love the smell of Aussie products. I always spritz my hair with a bit of Aussie Luscious Long Leave-in Conditioner after my showers too.

You can purchase it from Boots for £3.68

It keeps my hair moist, smelling great and detangles my hair ( helps to use the Elasticizer before for sure though!).

What are your favourite hair products of the moment?

What I bought today...yup you heard it right!

2012-01-07T09:31:00.000-08:00

So...I did say that I would not be shopping this sales season but this morning I woke up and I knew it was the day I had to go spend my Liberty Coin given to me from my friends at work on my last birthday. Afterall, it has been 4 months since I've got it. Why not make best use of it during the sales?

On my way to Liberty, I ended up taking a small detour into my favourite store ZARA.

Instead of buying the jackets I've blogged about. I ended up buying the sequin gold skirt ...yup this lovely skirt:

I tried this on months ago and really wanted to get it to pair with a plain white tee and a blazer...well now I can! Although, I may wait until Spring as I really want to wear it without tights.

I also ended up buying these neon sandals for 19.99GBP

I tried my best to photograph them but nothing seemed to work well enough to show the vibrant colour...and yes its one thats not on the Zara website!

I think neon is one of the hottest trends for SS12 but I feel like it will be one I will not see last in my closet for a very long time so the price of these killer heels made it a must have for me.

Now onto my first really fabulous, all time classic purchase for 2012:

My first pair of Pradas ever! The Hattie 110m in patent leather. There was only one pair left in my size in Liberty, you know with instances like this it is faith, kismet, whatever you want to call it but whatever that item is - it must be YOURS! They are so comfortable and I am sure they will be one of my staple pieces for a very long time. I also got them for such an amazing price, thanks to my Liberty coin and sales! The pumps normallly retail at 390GBP. I paid a mere 135GBP! Yup you heard it right! Bargain- right?

What do you think of my purchases?

when stressed...

2012-01-05T13:16:00.003-08:00

Whenever I am stressed, I realised I do one thing : check out beautiful architecture or interiors.

Here is yet a few of my recent favourites:

Sales update

2012-01-05T12:43:00.000-08:00

OK ...I did say I was being good and a shoe or two might creep into my closet this sales season and well, one has!

its a lovely new pair of python platform pumps from Alexandre Birman via Net-a-Porter.

I absolutely love the dark rich colour and I am a sucker for python or any exotic skins so when I saw these babies left only in my size, and for £87 - I just couldn't resist and lose out on this offer!

What made me even more excited was seeing the same shoes on sale through Neiman Marcus for double the price:)

I just cannot wait for them to arrive...

image from net-a-porter.com

Sales picks

2012-01-02T01:46:00.001-08:00

I'm being good this sales season and have decided not to buy anything until I have lost all the weight I have gained over the last year. Well, shoes are not part of this embargo yet as my feet are the only part of me that hasn't gotten bigger.

Just because I am not splashing the dough, doesn't mean I can't enjoy the browse right?

Well, here are my favourite picks from the sales...

Blazers- these are both from Zara and well, I believe just like a girl can never have too many shoes, she can never have too many blazers so have picked my favourites from my high street favourite store.

Absolutely love the colour of this one. I am a sucker for emerald green, think it oozes luxury and is actually a very versatile colour you can team with a lot. I'd love to wear this with some fluro pink / lime silk shirt under it..or a black/ navy velvet top...think it would look divine.

I don't know if love even begins to describe my passion for velvet. I love textures and the soft, smoothness of velvet is high on top of my list. I would probably pair this with skinny jeans - maybe a splash of colour again but probably black / charcoal skinnies and a simple top underneath, perhaps even a white tee.

Orange was one colour I never could dare to wear as I never found the right shade to go with my pale complexion. Also, orange wasn't widely available until this season so my options were even less. The colour oozes warmth, I love it. I actually like how they paired it here but a pussy bow blouse or a turtle neck would have worked better. I also would have used nude heels or perhaps something with a gold heel to offset and add more colour into the outfit.

Dresses-All of these dresses are from ASOS. I am only 5'2 so my choices are mostly from the petite section of the website.

I ordered this dress before as I absolutely fell in love with it. The material is very good quality ( I have had some dissapointing instances with ASOS before) but this is definitely cream of the crop for their own branded pieces. I had to return the dress as it didnt fit me properly. The size 6 was too tight around my hips and the 8 was too loose around my top due to my weight gain. I considered keeping the 8 and getting it altered, however I feel like when you buy things from the high street it should just fit properly! I find it ridiculous to spend the amount you've spent on your dress just to get it altered again. For designer pieces though I will splurge and get them altered as its more of an investment. Now, back to the dress. Eventhough this dress has quite a modern structure, think it could be a go - to piece and a staple in anyone's wardrobe. Just like any LBD.

P.s This dress is available in a midi version too if you are interested!

I love the simplicity of this dress and the colour. I have many times wanted to order it but now seen its almost sold out!

I have merely run out of time so will update this post later on with trousers, coats, sweaters, accessories and jewelry!

all images from Zara.com and Asos.com

I'm back..

2012-01-02T01:42:00.000-08:00

I've decided that I need an outlet for my thoughts and a place to continue storing my favourite thoughts, pieces, food and drink so I will be blogging a lot more.

I know its going to take a while until my blog shapes up to be what I want it to be sooooo...instead of thinking for ages on how it should be I am going to mould it into my liking as I go along.

Consider this post a turn of a page, a brand new start.

YO!

2011-08-09T00:53:00.001-07:00

Just a word of advise. I think the above has a lot of meaning to it and is quite true.

Architecture

2011-08-07T06:32:00.000-07:00

Life has a funny way of not following a straight line. It's actually not funny. It's just the way it is. As its fluid, as its dynamic and something we cannot control. Down to this reason, I get why we people find the need to control something. One way or the other. For some with insecurities, doubts, problems it could be the food we eat - it is simple, as long as you don't put it through your mouth it's not in your system. For others it is the environment they live and work in - making sure it is clean and orderly and the way they like it and to uncommon levels, OCD. I think these cases arise as each human at the core has a creative part which they haven't unleashed. We all definitely have this, and it is a bit ironic but I think it is our creative, the untamed part of our being that creates something and controls it by having total power over it by being the source of its existence. For the people that haven't discovered what their creative purposes are on this earth, this can lead to the want of controlling something else (like the food or the cleanliness of their place). I think architects are one of those people who are lucky enough to have discovered where they should be using that creative force, in a more productive way.

Long story short...I really wonder what chaos was going on in the minds of the masterminds that created the following showing so much sheer simplicity, transperancy and minimalism.

Hello World!

2011-08-07T04:53:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

This is my second attempt at a decent blog. One that I will want to update, follow and one I hope you start to follow too.

I am going to make it about everything that captures me that moment.