Wednesday

Accessories Maketh the (wo)Man



For the past 48hours I've been fending off some kind of flu. Which on its own isn't the best but when combined with the fact this kind of thing has a detrimental effect on my ability to create an outfit it's downright harrowing.

I knew last night when I went to bed that today would be a 'Converse' day (usually my chosen foot protection when I'm feeling a little delicate) but when I woke up I realised it was going to be a day I had to resort to a number of old tricks. And here they are - enjoy, dislike, take tips from..whatever you fancy.

Bright nails: check (bit of a cheat - actually prepped last night), Insect inspired cocktail ring: check, Vintage scarf tied under collar (buttoned up of course) : check, silk scarf attached to Mulberry bag to make it a handy shoulder length: check.



This combined with  my favourite shirt from Never Fully Dressed (http://www.neverfullydressed.co.uk/) and comfiest Topshop jodhpurs and I just about scraped through the day.


That said I'm now in animal print slippers and a baggy Zara T. Well, a girl's sometimes got to wind down of an evening hasn't she?

Sunday

Gender Bender




For those of you who know me this will be no surprise. I have a new style crush. For those of you who don't know me - buckle up, I have many crushes a year that I embrace and wear, regardless of the bizarre looks they may attract.

Ladies and gents: The Bow Tie.

Women have actually been seen to wear bow ties since the 18th century so before anyone imagines I have any great view of  myself as a cutting edge trend-setter, I don't. I just enjoy odd things. You don't see too many women in bow ties nowadays - come to think of it you don't see too many MEN in bow ties nowadays. But I want to change this.

I am a big believer in accessories and this looks set to be my Winter Wonder.

I recently purchased one to ease me into the look. Plain, black, cotton, 99p, ebay. Well, what's the point in investing the big bucks in a new decoration if you haven't seen it displayed yet?

It has not yet arrived but  once it does I intend to wear it. Not with white. Oh no. Primarily with a denim shirt I've had my beady eye on for some weeks now. Then I imagine with one of my MANY animal print chiffon blouses..and so on and so forth until it becomes as irremovable from my wardrobe as my Michael Kors heels or Chanel little black bag.

Once broken in expect pics. But for now enjoy the inspirational ones of women in these beauties I have found.

Saturday

Curry Time


So, another Saturday has rolled round and my usual morning routine kicked in. Sleep in, up, cup of tea, clean apartment and stick on Saturday Kitchen Live. However, where this programme usually inspires me to try something completely new and make an absolute mess of the aforementioned cleaned apartment today was a little different. They made a goat curry. Which put me in mind of a great recipe I had for a lamb&spinach curry. But this time I decided to make it with pilau rice (never before made).

So off I toddled to the local markets (got to support the small businesses, don't forget) and stocked up on my ingredients. To those of you who may shy away from curry this one's a gem as it's pretty  mild and the ingredients make it easy to control the heat going into it.

If you'd like a go the ingredients and method are:
Curry:

Cooking oil
2 onions (sliced)
1/4 bunch of fresh coriander (chopped)
2 fresh green chillies (chopped)
1 1/2 tsp finely chopped fresh ginger
1 1/2 tsp crushed fresh garlic
1 tsp chilli powder (more or less dependent on heat preference)
1/2 tsp ground tumeric
450g lean lamb, cut into bite size chunks
1 tsp salt
1kg fresh spinach (trimmed, washed, chopped)
700ml water
1 fresh red chilli, finely chopped for garnish


Method:
  • Heat oil in large, heavy-based pan. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
  • Add coriander and green chillies and stir fry for 3-5mins.
  • Reduce heat and add garlic, ginger, chilli powder and turmeric. Stir well.
  • Add lamb. Stir fry for 5mins.
  • Add salt and spinach and cook for 3-5mins.
  • Add water, stirring, and cook over a low heat for 45mins-1hr. (I leave for up to 2hrs to make sure the lamb is super tender.)
  • Remove lid and if there is surplus water increase heat and cook uncovered until satisfied. Garnish with chopped, red chilli.

Pilau rice:

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion, finely diced
1 garlic clove, crushed
3 green cardamom pods, split
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp turmeric
3 cloves
1 cinnamon stick
400g/14oz basmati rice
½ lemon, juice only

Method:
  • For the rice, heat a saucepan until hot. Add the oil, onion, garlic and spices, and fry for two minutes.
  • Stir in the rice and add 600ml/1pint 1fl oz water.
  • Bring to the boil, cover and reduce to a gentle simmer.
  • Cook for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid absorbed.
  • Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, lemon juice, then stir in the curry leaves.

Tuesday

The LBJ



The LBJ.
My version of the LBD. Don’t get me wrong; a little black dress is very much still a wardrobe staple, as we all know, but I’m just a jumpsuit kinda gal.

Once thing I’ve noticed, though, is that many a time when I’ve donned said garment a number of people say they wished they knew how to wear the trend and make it suit them and their lifestyles.

So I had a think, and with Polyvore by my side I’m hoping this post can dispel the theory jumpsuits are for boyish figures and top-trend followers. They can be just as useful on a Sunday market shop as they can be on a glitzy night out.

The first look I wanted to create was one I can imagine several figures suiting and being able to wear day to day and feel stylish yet comfortable. I think the cut of this jumpsuit (http://www.welikefashion.com/p/11366-Jumpsuit_Dalinda.html) lends itself to hiding lumps and bumps some would rather not share with the retinas of the general public. This teamed with some fashionable studded flats (also featured in yesterdays post – www.topshop.com), a printed scarf and an across the body bag makes it a practical, yet stylish little affair and I hope you agree.

The 2nd look has definite hints (huge ones) of my personal style. By now I’m sure you know the rule with me: chuck a bib necklace at it and you’ve an outfit sorted. This is the route I’ve taken with this look too. I thought of this more for a work look as the peg leg fit and shirt effect top half make it very smart – a sort of modern pant suit – and teamed with a briefcase-esque bag (www.misssixty.com) , some heels and the failsafe necklace I think you’re onto a winner of an outfit. (Also, if anyone reading this is in YSL and feeling generous I’m a size 10 and my address is…)(http://click.linksynergy.com/link?id=Hy3bqNL2jtQ&murl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.farfetch.com%2Fshopping%2Fwomen%2Fitem10131370.aspx&offerid=183381.10131370&type=15&u1=1ab04c6c7fab48ddb2244e0cc04167f8)

The final look is a little more adventurous – with a night out in mind. (http://www.flannelsfashion.com/products/women/suits/suits-details/i/17217-b6bkk/n/sequin-short-jumpsuit.aspx) Although I’ve teamed it with a clutch and bright heels if the sequins alone are enough for you simply pair it with black opaques and some plain heels and you still get the night-out, trend-led look but, hopefully, without taking a complete departure from your personal style comfort levels.

All in all I hope I’ve conveyed the message that the LBJ is, I think, a real contender to the LBD and super-cool to boot.


Monday

Music Monday.



My newest obsession. Hoping to see them live in February.
Give it a go - I defy you not to fall in love too.

And so the love affair continues...


Firstly, let me be clear. I love heels. I mean love..but sometimes a girl's got to be practical. And slippers are my means of getting through the winter in a fashion-conscious way while maintaining some level of day-to-day comfort running between meetings in London and Manchester (where I'm based.)

When slippers were first announced as this seasons new flat I wasn't sure..I'd heard reports of cankles and wasn't impressed. That and the fact I've been a keen brogue wearer for some time meant I was just not interested in finding myself a new flat shoe style. However, merely weeks later and I am fully submerged in the trend.

Since purchasing my 1st pair about 14days ago I have literally worn nothing else on my feet during the day. (But let's not forget heels - the evening's uniform.) This is no exaggeration. They are lovely, leopard print (the right kind, not the Pat Butcher kind) and have taken a total battering. With this in mind they will need re-soling tomorrow.

But what to wear while my prized slippers are IN the cobbler? Never fear - I came up with a solution! I bought a new black studded pair (same as central ones) and those beauties will have a safe place on my tootsies all day long. And the even more wonderful thing? I can now alternate slippers so as to not knacker either pair. What an absolute joy, non?



All above available from http://www.topshop.com/

Thursday

Cushion Me Up, Scotty




Cushions. I love them. Yup, you read right, I have a real thing for cushions.

I love them on sofas, chaises longues, armchairs, beds, even propped on windowsills (I have a fetching Union Jack set huddled in mine as I type; and a further silk ruffle set strewn across the head of my bed.)

I especially adore the weird mix of kitch homely ones and British heritage designs. And I'd happily coat my apartment in them if it wasn't for my housemate who would make me homeless if I took over furnishings with no prior discussion regarding them.

Above are some of my favourite designs; from bull dogs, to teacups, to Christian Lacroix designs. I'd love them all but I'd be a little out of pocket. On the plus side though, they are a great way to update an interior without the pricetag of a brand new suite.

Cake Stand cushion: www.furnish.co.uk
King Of Hearts cushion: www.www.amara.co.uk
Flower cushion set: www.annawhitford.com
Owl cushion: www.rjbstone.com
Teacups cushion: www.lauraashley.com
Bull dog cushion: www.welovecushions.co.uk
I Rule cushion: www.notonthehighstreet.com
Ace Of Spades cushion: www.amara.co.uk
Pink damask design cushion: www.designersguild.com

Wednesday

Heavy Metal

My latest Polyvore was created with, initially, my housemate Lauren in mind. But as ever elements of my personal taste crept in. The shoes for example. (available from http://www.oxygenboutique.com/)

That aside I think I'd be hard pushed to find one of my friends who wouldn't love to teeter about with that BEAUTIFUL Christian Louboutin slung over their shoulder. (available from www.luisaviaroma.com
)

My personal fashion's a funny thing - it changes depending on current mood, music taste, weather etc so as the nights are drawing in and my mood is getting grumpier as a result of lack of sun I have found myself embracing spikes, studs, chains; basically anything that can double as a weapon (!)

I understand the 2 pieces I've picked out aren't the kindest to all purses but the thing to remember with any trend/look is that it is ALWAYS possible to get it for cheaper - the stack rings for example - £6.50 from http://www.missselfridge.com/ Pair them with some black cigarette pants, a heavy knit and some black boots and you've a similar look from things you likely already own.

Enjoy!


Tuesday

My Nails Rock



A couple of weeks back at a Mulberry event I was handed the obligatory goody bag. Later on, poring through it over dinner, I discovered these amazing things. At the time I didn't think much to them but when I read, last night, that they required no heat (those familiar with Minx treatment will realise how much longer the heating process makes the whole manicure) I was thrilled and pledged to get them on pronto.

So that's exactly what I did as soon as I got home from work tonight. Needless to say they get a big thumbs up from me (mainly as they serve to extend my love of animal print - dalmation!)

These wonderful things and MANY more designs are available at http://www.nailrock.com/ so have a look and enjoy - they look great, are super easy to apply (seriously), and feel lovely.

Vintage Jungle





Today a friend of mine told me he wanted to go vintage shopping but had not a clue where to start. So, being the helpful soul I am (and not one to turn a good rail-rifle down) I happily assisted.



It then occurred to me that he is probably not the only person who feels over-faced in similar sartorial situations..and so this post was born.


I am now saving for this beauty...and the stag printed reupholstered sofa (a cool £500.)

I shall post again when I pop into more fantastic boutiques/vintage/charity shops and include photos etc.



The first thing to remember when entering these shops is that you will NOT find what you are looking for within seconds. These places, by their very nature, are not set out in a simple way. This is where my friend went immediately wrong, "I want a tan, fitted shirt." My reply, "No Ryan, this is not achievable."

Once he'd grasped this point he was getting somewhere towards a successful method of vintage shopping - moving towards colour/fabrics/prints he liked and working out what the garment was 2nd.

We went to a fantastic vintage shop in the heart of Manchester's Northern Quarter which used to be called Ryan Vintage but is now just 'Vintage.' Helpful, I know. If after looking through my pics etc you fancy a visit the address is 54 Oldham Street, Manchester, M1.

Once we'd exhausted the clothing side of the shop we mooched over to the vintage interior section and my new obsession was born - stag printed EVERYTHING. (My favourite is the long cushion, on top of the wooden box, in front of the stag illustrations.)

Can't Get It Out Of My Head



I just CANNOT get through my day without this at the moment.
It is a full dance round the room, not caring who can see, give myself a stitch TUNE!

Hope you enjoy it as much.


Couldn't Decide




So, I couldn't decide which to wear. Rope and charm necklace or vintage silk scarf handmade in India (passed down from my Gran, to my Mum to me).
In the end I plumped for both. Quite enjoying the mashup.

Monday

Polyvore



So for some months now I've been using good ol' Polyvore to itch my creative scratch and put together the outfits I A) cannot afford or B) do not dare wear (I'm going to be honest, this second option is infinitely less likely) so please, take a look and let me know what you think.
(The above is just an example of one of my polyvore 'sets')

A Few Of My Favourite Things (at the moment) pt.2


As I get further into this blog it'll, hopefully, become clear that I have a real 'thing' for oversized accessories. Mostly bib necklaces. I just love them to jazz up a plain tee, under a buttoned up shirt or just with good underwear. They always have a place!

A Few Of My Favourite Things (at the moment) pt.1




I've always had a real penchant for animal print in..well, basically anything. However, it struck me today that I might actually have a problem.

Given that my current slippers and favourite pair of shoes are extremely hard to tell apart.. What do you reckon? Need to get help?! (p.s. - the slippers are on the left)

2DyeFor




So...first things first I guess. I'm Sarah and having thought about this for some time and having spent many years chewing the ears off anyone who's in my general vicinity I have decided to begin a blog.


You'd think, as I'm a fashion agent I'd make it a solely fashion-based situation here, but no. I have many ridiculous points of view on many subjects. So I suppose really the best way to describe what's coming your way with this is a Lifestyle Blog...
I'll ideally cover most things from fashion, to interior, to social venues, to events - but all from my point of view and with pics, links to my favourite things and maybe a bit of music to enjoy along the way.


So here we go...