Saturday 27 June 2015

DESTINATION: VEGETATION

I often find it hard to relax.



I've come to realise my mind never fully switches off - well obviously not Courtney because then you'd be dead - even if I think it has. Even if I decide to actually do nothing, it still will usually entail constantly jotting down things in my phone, or googling things before I forget them, its something I can't help but do.

I've discovered, its hard to completely disconnect. 

So, whilst on this learning curve of disengagement, I've decided to compile a helpful, cute little list of things to do to simply unravel yourself...

Wednesday 24 June 2015

MY PINTEREST WEEKLY ROUNDUP #1

I love Pinterest. 



And to think there was a time when I thought that the only purpose of Pinterest was just to show you how to manufacture striped straws and decorate mason jars. (Well, I'm not entirely wrong there.)

Nowadays I struggle to think where I would be without it, its a mood-lifter, its an constant source of inspiration, it enhances your outfit, but most important of all - Pinterest enhances your life. 

I pin all day long. I am fully aware that I could very easily spend countless hours doing that very activity, but I have to actively refrain daily in fear of wasting my life. So. I'm going to share some images that have ignited some impassioned inspiration this week.

  Oh lawdy, narrowing this down is going to be emotional.

PLAYIN' IT COOL 


1) This outfit, this picture, is just wholly, and completely inspiring. Its this kind of androgynous styling that I am absolutely smitten with; its so laid back, and nonchalant and attractive. The sunglasses, the suit, the hair pulled back, the vans, the bracelets, the glow, the cafe, the croc patterned handbag perched on the table - yes, yes, everything, YES. 

2) Nuff said.

Wednesday 17 June 2015

I LOVE ASOS WHITE

OH, HAI THERE.

I only found out about this collection on ASOS a few months ago, and boy, oh, boy is it right up my alley. Given my current infatuation with clean, classic pieces and timeless shapes, ASOS white is singing loud and proud from my hymn sheet, so because of this, I thought I'd do an edit to show my adoration and appreciation;

(Many deep breaths are taken to prepare for the peruse of the picks...)


ASOS WHITE: EDIT



If there was only one thing I could buy from this collection, it would be this Denim Shirt Dress. Its perfect; the grandad collar, its ambiguous shape, its versatility. Its one of those pieces that you could reach for if you were lost for inspiration - its fail-safe, and reliable. I also love the idea of having it buttoned down and wearing it as a jacket - to be concise - its SUPER FRICKIN' COOL. Its just so cool.

 It would make me look cool.












Sunday 14 June 2015

EXPLORING LDN | SOHO - GRUB - Cutter & Squidge

After one failed attempt to get here, determined, Mimi and I finally made it, and we were ready to get our mitts on some CAKE AND MORE CAKE AND OTHER CAKE LIKE THINGS. 


Buried deep in Soho is the Cutter & Squidge pop up, and thankfully it was still here - after getting a frightening panic the evening before thinking it had popped off.


I come across Cutter & Squidge on instagram about 2 months ago, and instantly knew I had to visit. The decor and branding is so wholesome, and colourful, with its friendly 'countryside' appeal. Really original and rather adorable.


I mean, how could you possibly NOT want to try one of these beauties?! The creations above are called 'Biskies' created especially by Cutter & Squidge and are a cross between a cake, a cookie, and a biscuit. And I can confirm - they are an utter triumph. 




I was so proud of my time- efficient and swift selection, considering the array of tantalising flavours in front of me. I went for the 'Chocolate Coconut Smore Biskie', and to, logically, counteract the chocolate overload, my second choice was the 'We Bake a Tart Well'.

The actual Biskie itself is close in texture, and pleasantly soft, quite similar to a 'Whoopie Pie' but less thick and stodgy - they are the perfect sweet treat.


Also on offer, are a selection of 'Dreamcakes'; tall, colourful and exceptionally, as the title would suggest - dreamy. 


I had to didn't I - I'd been to the gym the day before, so, you know, it was fine. I had the situation under control. In the end, it was between the above and 'Apple of my Pie' - which had some kind of apple puree filling which was super enticing, but in the end I decided to go for the 'Cookies'n'Cream'. 

The sponge was so moist and dense, but in no way heavy, and the buttercream was super light and whipped to perfection - but there was a lot of it, and it was very sweet so I couldn't quite manage it all. The slice was finished off at the top with a tiny biskie embossed with a little 'C&S' stamp, which was a lovely, sweet touch. 


One of the main things I love about this company, is that they themselves, are health concious - much like myself - so they have purposefully created products that aren't laden with the bad stuff.

 They use no hydrogenated fats, no artificial flavourings, colourings, or preservatives, and use premium, and British ingredients whenever possible, and its this kind of authentic, considered ethic that makes me champion Cutter & Squidge; it makes everything you buy worth the money you pay for it. 

AESTHETIC: 8.5/10
GRUB: 9/10

Would I return and recommend? - Uh, YAH.

So get yourself down to their Soho pop-up, like, NOW. Ok, maybe not right now, because I don't think they are open, but, when you get an indulgent itch, get scratching with the help of these pals.

EXPLORING LDN | SOHO - GRUB - Melt Room

I've been to Soho quite a few times now, I'd like to think I'm pretty well-acquainted with the area, but because its such a 'hip'n'happenin' area, there are always new places popping up that I want to try out/ dribble outside of.


I heard about 'The Melt Room' a little while ago via twitter, and enticed by the rather unique idea of the place, started following them when they were in the process of setting up their shop, so was happy to find it open when we happened to stumble upon it. 

  (P.s how amazing does my nail varnish look ermagherd.)


#itnevermeltsogood

I got 'The Classic' with onion which was priced at £5.00. The bread used is sourdough - a great touch - which gives the sandwich that ultimate crispiness. 


I really love the branding. Its simple, clean, and effectively attention grabbing and bright. 

AESTHETIC : 8/10
GRUB: 5.5/10

Would you return and recommend? - I probably wouldn't return, no - unless I had a seriously uncontrollable and specific hankering for cheese.

EXPLORING LDN | SOHO - #OOTD

I really really loved the idea of having, and choosing, a song for my last #OOTD - so, please hit play!



BOHO BOYF

Casual | Masculine | Cool AF



#thosecheekbonestho #whoneedscontour #shedoesnt

I was continually bombarding Mimi with exclamations of love for her outfit when I saw her earlier this week, so I thought it would only be right to do a guest #OOTD!

Mimi is an accidental dresser; one of these people who can throw on anything without spending hours pondering, and unbeknownst to herself, ends up looking enviably effortless.



I loved the layering of the crochet under her shirt - major boho vibes.


Kewt.




I really loved the toughened, masculine feel, and the fact that it was so comfortable and casual but still experimental. For anyone else who is partial to a bit of 'Made in Chelsea - I said this outfit was rather reminiscent of a stylish Mr.Jamie Laing, does anybody else agree? 
 My beautiful babs.

 @mimi_gilles 

I hope you've enjoyed this different #OOTD - and are feeling inspired!

(Resorted to layering in mid-june. Come on england ffs.)




Saturday 6 June 2015

SEASIDE STYLE DIARY | 04/06/15

Before we begin, I would like to ask you to please press play on the video below, in order to create the desired ambience, transport you to the beach and to provide a more sensory, well rounded experience when viewing these images. Please take your time, and enjoy. :)

Thank you. 

(Corrr, that was a bit formal wasn't it.)


PALM SPRINGS

Fun | Kitsch | California Dreamin'









ESSEX meets LA


DENIM: River Island
CROP: H&M
CULOTTES: New Look (£6 in the sale - bargain of the year!)
TRAINERS: Vans 
BACKPACK: Primark
SUNGLASSES: Urban Outfitters




Chocolate and Coconut. 

...it would've been rude not to.











Friday 5 June 2015

EXPLORING LDN | SHOREDITCH - SHOPPIN'



What's the name? Of that shopping place? Near Shoreditch High Street station?...um. oh ffs. I can't remember for the life of -

Oh! OH! I've got it! - oh, wait, wait. No, no.

I know I know it. Its probably staring me right in the face. Muahahaha. Lolololololol.

I've been hearing about Boxpark for like, ever, so I was glad when I finally got to see it. Its so unique, and unlike any other shopping destination. Funnily enough, we didn't actually end up spending loads of time here because there was so much in the surrounding area to see, but what we did see of it we did really like. It has this very casual, chilled, nonchalant vibe, which allows you to comfortably drift aimlessly from one shop to another without the pressure of having to buy something.


I was so happy that Spitalfields was so close, so very very happy. I love the fact that we got to see and explore so much within such a small vicinity. Holly and I stood staring at this stall for a little while, debating whether to get a necklace made. We both love bar necklaces, and I've been on the look for another dainty necklace to pair with my Estella Bartlett one for a few months now. Before we go any further - we didn't buy them. BUT. BUT. I'm definitely keeping it in mind, and would without a doubt go back solely to get one.


I would want a word, a meaningful, motivational word - so as you can imagine, with all the will in the world, making a decision on what word to have is one that needs to be pondered over for more 5 minutes. Coz I'm famously indecisive like that. 


If not you can get your initial on a small disc, which was ANOTHER option we thought was super sweet and had to consider, making it all the more agonising. Options are so bittersweet.


We wandered into this shop on the outskirts of Spitalfields and fell in love. First of all - the name - Bethnals - I love it. Simple, memorable, authentic. 


The design and layout of the shop was just as beautiful as the clothes, and I nabbed one of these brochures in the picture to mull over at home. The general - much coveted - consensus was very minimalistic and basic, which is an aesthetic I find irresistible and have for a while now. Everything looked so well-made and thoughtful, and the chambray, granddad collar shirt folded up in the picture above had me at first glance. Understandably not cheap, this is the kind of place I would love to shop in when my bank account is financially flourishing, but even if its not, its still a true joy to go in there and pleasurably appreciate it on a visually gratifying level. 


Skilfully spotted by Holly - well done, pip - Anthropologie happened to fall right into our laps as we walked  floated out of COS in a euphoric, inspired daze. I didn't get to take many pictures in there, as I was too busy taking it all in, having never come across or been into the store before. Holly and I both bought one of the infamous monogram mugs each - which I still can't believe were only £6 and actually much more substantial than I'd imagined - and meandered around the store picking up plates and teacups and cute notebooks. I managed to snap this beautiful Olivia Burton watch though, which I tried on; Powder blue and Rose Gold - what a dreamy combo. 


Two bags. A whole lot of satisfaction. 

And that's all for my #shoreditchspam folks! 

I hope you've enjoyed this style of post, and keep an eye out for my next London escapade!


Thursday 4 June 2015

EXPLORING LDN | SHOREDITCH - GRUB





...that got your attention didn't it. 

First stop of this magical ride of oral titillation (god that sounded sexual)... 


DUM DUM DUMMMMMMM. 

...donuterrie.



I've been following Dum Dum on instagram for so bloody long. Like, so long.The longest time. Pining to go there everytime they pop up in my feed, my stomach crying a little with every photo of their mammoth cronuts and glossy donuts. I was elated when I found out they were even closer to me with their pop-up in Stratford Westfield, but that dream was short-lived when I went there and they were no where to be seen. Sigh. 


ALAS, fate finally allowed me to experience some Dum Dum! Myself and Holly both got the same; A raspberry donut ( our tradition) which was only £2 and the (rather mammoth) 'Cro-nutella' cronut, priced at £3 - so £5 for two gourmet donuts! Quite a cheerful price if you ask me!


Baked not fried - such an appealing USP. Its always nice to know that your super indulgent treat has been made in a healthier manner; makes you feel a little less naughty. Tehehehe.

NEXT STOP;


As mentioned in a previous post, I had already scoped out this little gem beforehand; the minute I saw their branding and logo I was sold, and the trip there did not disappoint...



Coffee is something I want to know more about, I feel like such a novice and I don't like that. I went for a latte, served to me with a complimentary glass of water. The coffee itself was lovely. Smooth, rich, decadent and perfectly frothy. I normally add sweetener to my coffee, but I actually got through half of it questioning the need for it because it was that flavoursome.



There were some suuuuuuuper super kewt, totally kitsch, tremendously tempting donuts with an animated aesthetic (One called 'The Homer' - basically a real life version of Homers famous donuts - SO COOL) on offer - which I later found out were made by a company/business/lady called 'Vickys Donuts'. I didn't get the chance to snap them on the day, but after looking at their adorable, fun and cartooned branding and instagram page, I really would love to try them. If it looks good, you've got me interested. 


Can't afford a city break to the Big Apple? - NBD, Brooklyn Coffee with scratch that itch.

This small space was absolutely oooozing with an undeniably cool, trendy New York vibe; the interior was stripped back, bare, very minimal and modern. I say this with no exaggeration, but sitting in the window of Brooklyn Coffee was a truly transporting experience. Holly and I both agreed, as we enjoyably people watched on a sunny Saturday morning, that we felt as though we had been picked up and dropped into NYC. I don't know how they do it, but, they do, and it just feels so considered and authentic. Authenticity is exactly what this place transmits, which makes it so appealing and unique.


THE MAIN EVENT;


 OH HAI BLEECKER STREEEEEEET.

Um. AMAZING. Yep. You'erd - AMAZING.



Because I know there is so much more food to try throughout London, and from all the various food markets we wish to visit, I find myself very rarely 'craving' somewhere we've already been. BUT. BUT. Bleecker wins a prize, because the other day I got a very specific Bleecker hankering.

how could you not?!


A single cheeseburger and sweet potato fries - £10. 

This is worth more than £10. Its better than any burger I've had at any chain restaurant and probably paid double the price of a Bleecker for. The meat, THE MEAT, the meat. It melts in your mouth. It just disintegrates, and the recommendation of medium rare is bang on the money. Its flavoursome, its light, its juicy. After we'd devoured the burger, Holly and I said we felt like we hadn't even eaten anything, because it was so delicate it didn't give you that horrid full feeling, The sweet potato fries were the best, like, honestly they were the best, and the generous portion size was a much appreciated touch. We both want to go back - period; we want to go back for the double cheeseburger, but I also really want to try to Bleecker Black (double cheeseburger with a slice of black pudding), since its so raved about and just looks so delicious. Bleecker, you ma no.1.

GO THERE - you'll just have to get behind me in the queue.