Showing posts with label London. Show all posts
Showing posts with label London. Show all posts
It's the most wonderful time of the year. There's not much I enjoy about the British winter apart from seeing London lit up with all the Christmas lights. This year, Dior has taken over Harrods giving it a festive gingerbread-themed makeover. Alongside giving all the store windows and store facade the Dior treatment, they also have a temporary exhibition made entirely from gingerbread. It's a must-see!
The Fabulous World of Dior is a free exhibition open to the public. You are brought to a set of escalators travelling down to the lower ground of the store. Surrounding the escalators is something straight out of the entrance of La Galerie Dior in Paris. A very aesthetically pleasing rainbow of miniature versions of the brand's classic bags, gowns and shoes in block colours.
At the bottom of the escalators, you are stopped by a large curtain which is soon pulled back to reveal an incredible gingerbread depiction of 30 Montaigne, Dior's flagship store in Paris. The real-life version of the building carries a lot of history being the place Christian Dior opened his first atelier and store in Paris, just off Champs-Élyseés. Christian Dior's shop then expanded from 30 Montaigne to pretty much the entire block. In the gingerbread version, there are cut out windows showing various ateliers and seamstresses made from, you guessed it, gingerbread.
I loved the window with the J'adior slingback and how they incorporated the gingerbread to set the scene. I also loved the staircase in the middle window which on every level had families and people spread out on the landing. The tour guide mentioned the staircase railing was made from sugar. Unfortunately, I don't have a picture to share but it's amazing. It was incredible to see the art and skill that went into not just beautifully decorating the gingerbread pieces and scenes but constructing it too. As an exhibition from Dior, would you ever expect anything less?
The rest of the exhibition followed similarly, carrying that wow factor. Behind the main masterpiece was a garden containing miniature garden-inspired dresses twirling in a snow-like scene. It was something small and simple but paired with the whimsical classical music that follows you through the exhibition, it was stunning. If you've been to La Galerie Dior, you would recognise quite a few of the gowns.
The last gingerbread scene you see before you are guided to the exit are gingerbread characters playing in the snow. There's one scene of a parent and child building a snowman in the snow - which just so happens to be a Dior gown!
The exhibition is a piece of Christmas magic located in the heart of Harrods. It's a small but mighty exhibition showcasing three of Christian Dior's favourite buildings – 30 Montaigne, Granville and La Colle Noire – made from gingerbread. The winter wonderland brings some of the Dior magic to the UK, which it hasn't seen since the incredible V&A showcase back in 2019. There is also a Dior cafe located on the ground floor where you can buy some Dior-inspired gingerbread treats. Personally, I'd skip that and head to the Harrods bakery and treat yourself to one of their cakes instead.
Love, Aoife
The exhibition is ticketed (but free) until Jan 3rd.
It's the most wonderful time of the year. There's not much I enjoy about the British winter apart from seeing London lit up with all the Christmas lights. This year, Dior has taken over Harrods giving it a festive gingerbread-themed makeover. Alongside giving all the store windows and store facade the Dior treatment, they also have a temporary exhibition made entirely from gingerbread. It's a must-see!
The Fabulous World of Dior is a free exhibition open to the public. You are brought to a set of escalators travelling down to the lower ground of the store. Surrounding the escalators is something straight out of the entrance of La Galerie Dior in Paris. A very aesthetically pleasing rainbow of miniature versions of the brand's classic bags, gowns and shoes in block colours.
At the bottom of the escalators, you are stopped by a large curtain which is soon pulled back to reveal an incredible gingerbread depiction of 30 Montaigne, Dior's flagship store in Paris. The real-life version of the building carries a lot of history being the place Christian Dior opened his first atelier and store in Paris, just off Champs-Élyseés. Christian Dior's shop then expanded from 30 Montaigne to pretty much the entire block. In the gingerbread version, there are cut out windows showing various ateliers and seamstresses made from, you guessed it, gingerbread.
I loved the window with the J'adior slingback and how they incorporated the gingerbread to set the scene. I also loved the staircase in the middle window which on every level had families and people spread out on the landing. The tour guide mentioned the staircase railing was made from sugar. Unfortunately, I don't have a picture to share but it's amazing. It was incredible to see the art and skill that went into not just beautifully decorating the gingerbread pieces and scenes but constructing it too. As an exhibition from Dior, would you ever expect anything less?
The rest of the exhibition followed similarly, carrying that wow factor. Behind the main masterpiece was a garden containing miniature garden-inspired dresses twirling in a snow-like scene. It was something small and simple but paired with the whimsical classical music that follows you through the exhibition, it was stunning. If you've been to La Galerie Dior, you would recognise quite a few of the gowns.
The last gingerbread scene you see before you are guided to the exit are gingerbread characters playing in the snow. There's one scene of a parent and child building a snowman in the snow - which just so happens to be a Dior gown!
The exhibition is a piece of Christmas magic located in the heart of Harrods. It's a small but mighty exhibition showcasing three of Christian Dior's favourite buildings – 30 Montaigne, Granville and La Colle Noire – made from gingerbread. The winter wonderland brings some of the Dior magic to the UK, which it hasn't seen since the incredible V&A showcase back in 2019. There is also a Dior cafe located on the ground floor where you can buy some Dior-inspired gingerbread treats. Personally, I'd skip that and head to the Harrods bakery and treat yourself to one of their cakes instead.
Love, Aoife
The exhibition is ticketed (but free) until Jan 3rd.
Peter Carl Fabergé is renowned for his collection of Imperial Easter Eggs. A collection of 50 stunning eggs made with incredible craftsmanship that can fetch an eye wateringly obscene amount when sold. But there’s more to the goldsmith than his collection of egg-shaped gifts made for Russian royalty.
The Victoria and Albert museum (V&A) are currently running Fabergé in London: Romance to Revolution, an exhibition exploring the man behind the internally recognised brand symbolising luxury, elegance and fine Russian craftsmanship. It focuses mainly on the relationship the brand had with London, when it opened (I believe) the only store outside of Russia in 1903.
I wouldn’t say I’m a fan of Fabergé, far from it, but I have been intrigued as to why a simple statue could fetch a cool £3 million at an auction. If you’re looking for an artistic review of Fabergé, this is probably the wrong place but I will give you my honest review of the exhibition and my thoughts around the firm.
Inside the exhibition
The exhibition itself was very interesting. It told the story and history of the man himself and the about the brand. It explained the relationship it had with London and it’s very royal customer base. You weren’t allowed to take any photographs in the exhibit but that makes sense with how valuable the items were.
And there were A LOT of them! It gave you a good feel of the firm and the type of pieces they created.
Items made by Fabergé combined fiercely expensive jewels and stones with less expensive materials such as enamel (a technique fusing metal and glass).
Items made by Fabergé combined fiercely expensive jewels and stones with less expensive materials such as enamel (a technique fusing metal and glass).
Fabergé was a brand clearly designed and catering for the wealthiest who could afford the simplest of items but had plenty of money to afford an extravagant version. A lot of his clientele were royalty in some form- you’d have to be to afford the price in that era. A crystal Coronation vase was purchased for £430 which is worth about £4.8 million today. Similarly, a collection of silver bowls indented with a design cost the owner £250 but it now worth about £3.8 million today.
With that said that, the exhibition displayed an equal amounts of purely decorative extravagance alongside utilitarian items including a boot lace hook that had been used so many times, the firm had to re-enamel the handle. There were many cigarette cases that looked somewhat ‘average’ but was made from enamel and had a thin stream of delicate tiny demands flowing through.
Fabergé also made a lot of animal figurines for the royal family. The placard explained some of them had been made purely for its artistic value than anything else. While I’m not entirely sure I can appreciate the value of a French bulldog made from Bowenite with diamond eyes, the level of detail was impeccable. You could pick out every hair and wrinkle on the dog, something that is not easy to do when you're carving stone. My favourite figurine on display was a snail. It was smaller than my fingernail but my oh my was the level of detail outstanding.
I made reference to the Imperial Easter eggs at the beginning and it wouldn’t be a good exhibition if they didn’t exhibit any. Right at the end, you can see some of the eggs from the most popular and memorable Fabergé collection up close. These can fetch a staggering amount at an auction — one estimated to be worth $33 million — but the story behind the one-of-a-kind collection is a sweet romantic tale.
In 1885, Russian Emperor Alexander III asked Fabergé to make an Imperial Easter egg for his wife Empress Maria Feodorvna. A unique egg was then gifted every year marking an occasion in the family. Their son Nicolas II carried on the tradition following his father’s death.
I don’t think a picture could ever do the Egg justice. It’s something you have to see in person to fully understand what makes them so precious and more than a one of a kind item. To see the individual brick markings on the Moscow Kremlin Egg or the fragility of the hundreds of minuscule diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires on the Mosaic Egg could not be captured in a photograph.
Final Thoughts
The exhibition was fascinating. It was very informative but on a subject I think you’d need to have known a little about and have an interest in. I made use of my V&A Under 26 membership so it was free for me. At £20 a ticket, I feel you’re going to a bit bored if you’re not intrigued by who Fabergé was or if you don’t have an interest in jewelled items.
Love, Aoife xo
Peter Carl Fabergé is renowned for his collection of Imperial Easter Eggs. A collection of 50 stunning eggs made with incredible craftsmanship that can fetch an eye wateringly obscene amount when sold. But there’s more to the goldsmith than his collection of egg-shaped gifts made for Russian royalty.
The Victoria and Albert museum (V&A) are currently running Fabergé in London: Romance to Revolution, an exhibition exploring the man behind the internally recognised brand symbolising luxury, elegance and fine Russian craftsmanship. It focuses mainly on the relationship the brand had with London, when it opened (I believe) the only store outside of Russia in 1903.
I wouldn’t say I’m a fan of Fabergé, far from it, but I have been intrigued as to why a simple statue could fetch a cool £3 million at an auction. If you’re looking for an artistic review of Fabergé, this is probably the wrong place but I will give you my honest review of the exhibition and my thoughts around the firm.
Inside the exhibition
The exhibition itself was very interesting. It told the story and history of the man himself and the about the brand. It explained the relationship it had with London and it’s very royal customer base. You weren’t allowed to take any photographs in the exhibit but that makes sense with how valuable the items were.
And there were A LOT of them! It gave you a good feel of the firm and the type of pieces they created.
Items made by Fabergé combined fiercely expensive jewels and stones with less expensive materials such as enamel (a technique fusing metal and glass).
Items made by Fabergé combined fiercely expensive jewels and stones with less expensive materials such as enamel (a technique fusing metal and glass).
Fabergé was a brand clearly designed and catering for the wealthiest who could afford the simplest of items but had plenty of money to afford an extravagant version. A lot of his clientele were royalty in some form- you’d have to be to afford the price in that era. A crystal Coronation vase was purchased for £430 which is worth about £4.8 million today. Similarly, a collection of silver bowls indented with a design cost the owner £250 but it now worth about £3.8 million today.
With that said that, the exhibition displayed an equal amounts of purely decorative extravagance alongside utilitarian items including a boot lace hook that had been used so many times, the firm had to re-enamel the handle. There were many cigarette cases that looked somewhat ‘average’ but was made from enamel and had a thin stream of delicate tiny demands flowing through.
Fabergé also made a lot of animal figurines for the royal family. The placard explained some of them had been made purely for its artistic value than anything else. While I’m not entirely sure I can appreciate the value of a French bulldog made from Bowenite with diamond eyes, the level of detail was impeccable. You could pick out every hair and wrinkle on the dog, something that is not easy to do when you're carving stone. My favourite figurine on display was a snail. It was smaller than my fingernail but my oh my was the level of detail outstanding.
I made reference to the Imperial Easter eggs at the beginning and it wouldn’t be a good exhibition if they didn’t exhibit any. Right at the end, you can see some of the eggs from the most popular and memorable Fabergé collection up close. These can fetch a staggering amount at an auction — one estimated to be worth $33 million — but the story behind the one-of-a-kind collection is a sweet romantic tale.
In 1885, Russian Emperor Alexander III asked Fabergé to make an Imperial Easter egg for his wife Empress Maria Feodorvna. A unique egg was then gifted every year marking an occasion in the family. Their son Nicolas II carried on the tradition following his father’s death.
I don’t think a picture could ever do the Egg justice. It’s something you have to see in person to fully understand what makes them so precious and more than a one of a kind item. To see the individual brick markings on the Moscow Kremlin Egg or the fragility of the hundreds of minuscule diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires on the Mosaic Egg could not be captured in a photograph.
Final Thoughts
The exhibition was fascinating. It was very informative but on a subject I think you’d need to have known a little about and have an interest in. I made use of my V&A Under 26 membership so it was free for me. At £20 a ticket, I feel you’re going to a bit bored if you’re not intrigued by who Fabergé was or if you don’t have an interest in jewelled items.
Love, Aoife xo
A new year gives you the opportunity to explore new places and try out new things. Unfortunately, last year I was unable to do most of the things I had planned when I was in London because I worked throughout most of the summer holidays. Since my exams finish in May and I graduate in July, I will officially be free from being a student which means I'll have more time on my hands before I start working *sarcastic yay*. What's on my list for things I want to do in 2020?
Visit a new place in London //
Last year, Aoife and I went to Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park and it was so gorgeous and peaceful! After uploading a video on Snapchat, I received countless messages asking about the location, Many people were surprised to find that the garden was in London. There are loads of places I haven't discovered or yet seen. One of the places I really want to visit is Kew Garden which looks beautiful. When I planned to go last year, it was raining but I'm going to make sure I see it this year!
Solo Trip //
Since I can't travel during summer at the moment -I have eczema and a skin disorder that makes my skin sensitive to the sun- I thought it would be great to go somewhere in Europe during my reading week this month. I know most of my friends are not available or don't really want to go...so, why not make it my first ever solo trip? After travelling to Venice last August, I have to go back to Italy! I would love to go to Milan or to Florence for a few days. The whole experience of travelling alone can definitely be daunting but this doesn't put me off at all! I know I would meet great people along the way. It would truly be an unforgettable experience.
Spa Day //
Because I deserve it and you do too! I would love to treat myself to a self-pampering day where I can unwind, focus on my wellness and enjoy a relaxing massage that puts me to sleep. I've seen so many incredible places for a spa getaway trip- maybe I have plans for my 21st after all!
Go to another city //
I have never been to another city outside London before. Except for Leicester since I go to university there. Birmingham and Nottingham are only a train away so I don't really have any excuses! After being told how big Manchester is, I would love to spend a day experiencing city life elsewhere.
Attend a Meditation Class //
Life can become stressful, overwhelming and chaotic. Sitting in silence and focusing on your breathing is a really good technique that allows you to refocus and bring yourself into the present. If you're on a spiritual journey, you know how important it is to stay in silence without being consumed by excessive thinking. A friend recommended a meditation class in Leicester that she really enjoyed. I would love to surround myself with people who are in touch with their spirituality whilst learning how to meditate more effectively without being distracted by excessive thought.
What new things would you like to try this year?
Blog: www.infinitezeal.com
A new year gives you the opportunity to explore new places and try out new things. Unfortunately, last year I was unable to do most of the things I had planned when I was in London because I worked throughout most of the summer holidays. Since my exams finish in May and I graduate in July, I will officially be free from being a student which means I'll have more time on my hands before I start working *sarcastic yay*. What's on my list for things I want to do in 2020?
Visit a new place in London //
Last year, Aoife and I went to Kyoto Gardens in Holland Park and it was so gorgeous and peaceful! After uploading a video on Snapchat, I received countless messages asking about the location, Many people were surprised to find that the garden was in London. There are loads of places I haven't discovered or yet seen. One of the places I really want to visit is Kew Garden which looks beautiful. When I planned to go last year, it was raining but I'm going to make sure I see it this year!
Solo Trip //
Since I can't travel during summer at the moment -I have eczema and a skin disorder that makes my skin sensitive to the sun- I thought it would be great to go somewhere in Europe during my reading week this month. I know most of my friends are not available or don't really want to go...so, why not make it my first ever solo trip? After travelling to Venice last August, I have to go back to Italy! I would love to go to Milan or to Florence for a few days. The whole experience of travelling alone can definitely be daunting but this doesn't put me off at all! I know I would meet great people along the way. It would truly be an unforgettable experience.
Spa Day //
Because I deserve it and you do too! I would love to treat myself to a self-pampering day where I can unwind, focus on my wellness and enjoy a relaxing massage that puts me to sleep. I've seen so many incredible places for a spa getaway trip- maybe I have plans for my 21st after all!
Go to another city //
I have never been to another city outside London before. Except for Leicester since I go to university there. Birmingham and Nottingham are only a train away so I don't really have any excuses! After being told how big Manchester is, I would love to spend a day experiencing city life elsewhere.
Attend a Meditation Class //
Life can become stressful, overwhelming and chaotic. Sitting in silence and focusing on your breathing is a really good technique that allows you to refocus and bring yourself into the present. If you're on a spiritual journey, you know how important it is to stay in silence without being consumed by excessive thinking. A friend recommended a meditation class in Leicester that she really enjoyed. I would love to surround myself with people who are in touch with their spirituality whilst learning how to meditate more effectively without being distracted by excessive thought.
What new things would you like to try this year?
Blog: www.infinitezeal.com
Every now and then, I like to switch it up a little bit and do something different. The other day I watched an interview on YouTube with Ari Lennox and Summer Walker. It was a short conversation talking about all the things they’re “over” in light of Summer Walker’s latest album, Over It. If you haven’t listened to it, it’s amazing and has been on repeat ever since it came out.
I thought I'd take a leaf out of their book... okay, I'm just doing it in blog post form... and have my own go discussing what I'm over and what is not coming with me into the new year...
Drama…
A lot of drama comes from miscommunication and in a world with more streams of communication than ever before, why do we still suck at communicating? We have so many privileges that other people don’t have so why are we still afraid of sharing our feelings? Also, I have never had as much drama in my life as I currently do now. Life was so much simpler when there wasn’t drama. Let’s leave it to Eastenders, please.
…over it
Body Hair…
Regrowth after a day, razor burn, cut legs... body hair grows back so quickly and it gets darker and darker each time. I’m over it completely. It’s the bane of my existence and it needs to not be. I don’t know how I’m going to do it but I’m leaving my body hair in 2019.
…over it
People’s opinions on my love life...
Do you have a boyfriend yet? No. You’re so picky, you’ll never find anyone. I’m sorry, what? One of the things I’m over more than anything is people’s opinions on my love life. Since when was it ever out in the open and up for debate? When I am emotionally ready to bare my deepest feelings and am ready to receive someone else’s, I will let you know. But until then, I’ll do me and you can sort your own love life out.
...over it.
Acne…
I’m starting to believe my skin has a mind of its own. No matter what I do or what I don’t do, there is always a pimple. A mark. A blemish. I’m tired of looking at my skin and seeing red marks everywhere. As much as I’m tired of acne, I’m also tired of all the work it takes to try and get rid of it. Spot cream, serum, moisturiser, natural remedies; I’m starting to think that either my skin is as stubborn as I am or it’s all just a marketing ploy. I don’t do anything to it and it explodes.
….over it.
This post has been fun to write and if you’re a fellow blogger, give it a try and tag me in them. I’d love to see them! These four things are sadly the significant things that go round and round in my life and create the most negative energy. I predict that 2020 will be a great year. There are lots of great things happening such as graduating from university and (fingers crossed) getting my dream graduate job and a ton more things. Maybe I’ll fall in love? Maybe I’ll move into my own place? Maybe I’ll make more friends? The list of possibilities is endless.
Happy 2020 guys!!!
Love, Aoife xo
Every now and then, I like to switch it up a little bit and do something different. The other day I watched an interview on YouTube with Ari Lennox and Summer Walker. It was a short conversation talking about all the things they’re “over” in light of Summer Walker’s latest album, Over It. If you haven’t listened to it, it’s amazing and has been on repeat ever since it came out.
I thought I'd take a leaf out of their book... okay, I'm just doing it in blog post form... and have my own go discussing what I'm over and what is not coming with me into the new year...
Drama…
A lot of drama comes from miscommunication and in a world with more streams of communication than ever before, why do we still suck at communicating? We have so many privileges that other people don’t have so why are we still afraid of sharing our feelings? Also, I have never had as much drama in my life as I currently do now. Life was so much simpler when there wasn’t drama. Let’s leave it to Eastenders, please.
…over it
Body Hair…
Regrowth after a day, razor burn, cut legs... body hair grows back so quickly and it gets darker and darker each time. I’m over it completely. It’s the bane of my existence and it needs to not be. I don’t know how I’m going to do it but I’m leaving my body hair in 2019.
…over it
People’s opinions on my love life...
Do you have a boyfriend yet? No. You’re so picky, you’ll never find anyone. I’m sorry, what? One of the things I’m over more than anything is people’s opinions on my love life. Since when was it ever out in the open and up for debate? When I am emotionally ready to bare my deepest feelings and am ready to receive someone else’s, I will let you know. But until then, I’ll do me and you can sort your own love life out.
...over it.
Acne…
I’m starting to believe my skin has a mind of its own. No matter what I do or what I don’t do, there is always a pimple. A mark. A blemish. I’m tired of looking at my skin and seeing red marks everywhere. As much as I’m tired of acne, I’m also tired of all the work it takes to try and get rid of it. Spot cream, serum, moisturiser, natural remedies; I’m starting to think that either my skin is as stubborn as I am or it’s all just a marketing ploy. I don’t do anything to it and it explodes.
….over it.
This post has been fun to write and if you’re a fellow blogger, give it a try and tag me in them. I’d love to see them! These four things are sadly the significant things that go round and round in my life and create the most negative energy. I predict that 2020 will be a great year. There are lots of great things happening such as graduating from university and (fingers crossed) getting my dream graduate job and a ton more things. Maybe I’ll fall in love? Maybe I’ll move into my own place? Maybe I’ll make more friends? The list of possibilities is endless.
Happy 2020 guys!!!
Love, Aoife xo
You know the saying “you can take the girl out of London but you can’t take London out of the girl.” Well as it turns out you can’t take the girl out of London either.
I am a city girl, through and through. Anyone who knows me will clearly see that I thrive in a big city. It’s the place I feel most comfortable and empowered. It’s home. And the moment you dare to take me out of the city: I start to crumble. It’s been two years since I took up part-time residency (left feels so final) in a smaller city to go to university. It has been the hardest transition I’ve faced in life despite everything else that has happened.
You see, London, you are freedom. I learned to navigate you growing up, thanks to my Dad, and it’s almost like being in control of the world. Whether it’s to hop on the Victoria line and arrive in town 20 minutes later. Or to jump on the central line and step out onto the charming roads of Notting Hill. I can navigate you even with my eyes closed.
Sometimes, I find it ironic how a city that’s so crowded provides me with the same amount of freedom that others may find running through a country field. I’ve learned that freedom is me being able to navigate myself. I am in control. It’s me, my two legs and my Oyster card.
I think what I love most about London is how it's constantly changing. It evolves and opens discussions. Creates spaces that let me and others explore our passions. Excites us and keeps us on our toes. It always keeps me amused and amazed at how much talent one city can breathe.
London, you are home. You make me and others feel like we’re on top of the world. You continue to buzz and thrive. My Mum calls you a playground and I agree. You’re one big adventure where nothing is ever the same.
Like I mentioned earlier, moving out of London is one of the hardest things I’ve done. I miss it so much and much to my parents' annoyance, I always return to keep the affair going.
Are you a city or country person?
Love, Aoife xo
You know the saying “you can take the girl out of London but you can’t take London out of the girl.” Well as it turns out you can’t take the girl out of London either.
I am a city girl, through and through. Anyone who knows me will clearly see that I thrive in a big city. It’s the place I feel most comfortable and empowered. It’s home. And the moment you dare to take me out of the city: I start to crumble. It’s been two years since I took up part-time residency (left feels so final) in a smaller city to go to university. It has been the hardest transition I’ve faced in life despite everything else that has happened.
You see, London, you are freedom. I learned to navigate you growing up, thanks to my Dad, and it’s almost like being in control of the world. Whether it’s to hop on the Victoria line and arrive in town 20 minutes later. Or to jump on the central line and step out onto the charming roads of Notting Hill. I can navigate you even with my eyes closed.
Sometimes, I find it ironic how a city that’s so crowded provides me with the same amount of freedom that others may find running through a country field. I’ve learned that freedom is me being able to navigate myself. I am in control. It’s me, my two legs and my Oyster card.
I think what I love most about London is how it's constantly changing. It evolves and opens discussions. Creates spaces that let me and others explore our passions. Excites us and keeps us on our toes. It always keeps me amused and amazed at how much talent one city can breathe.
London, you are home. You make me and others feel like we’re on top of the world. You continue to buzz and thrive. My Mum calls you a playground and I agree. You’re one big adventure where nothing is ever the same.
Like I mentioned earlier, moving out of London is one of the hardest things I’ve done. I miss it so much and much to my parents' annoyance, I always return to keep the affair going.
Are you a city or country person?
Love, Aoife xo
By now you must know I have an obsession with anything created by the great designers (Balenciaga, Dior, Alaïa, Lagerfeld). I also have a great sense for sniffing out fashion exhibitions around London. If you haven’t already, definitely check out my post on the current Dior exhibition at the V&A. It's on until September!
My latest find is Manolo Blahnik at The Wallace Collection or rather An Enquiring Mind: Manolo Blahnik. The name might sound familiar if you’re a fan of Sex and The City. When Carrie gets robbed at gunpoint, he takes her Manolos and Carrie is left screaming down a Manhattan backstreet, “He’s got my strappy sandals”. For those of you who don’t know what I’m talking about, Manolo Blahnik is a famous shoe designer. His styles are iconic and you can definitely spot a them from a mile away. They have a slight renaissance feel to them from the shape of the heel to the long pointed toe. The two not always mutually exclusive.
During my internship at The Times, I had the pleasure of holding a pair of Manolos. I was sorting out some returns in the fashion cupboard which happened to include two pairs of the most gorgeous shoes. I was in awe of the the craft of the shoe and the feel of the silk. I did have to compose myself a little bit.
During my internship at The Times, I had the pleasure of holding a pair of Manolos. I was sorting out some returns in the fashion cupboard which happened to include two pairs of the most gorgeous shoes. I was in awe of the the craft of the shoe and the feel of the silk. I did have to compose myself a little bit.
The Wallace Collection is located just off of Marylebone High street and is free entry. It is housed in Hertford House that was bequeathed to the nation by Lady Wallace in 1897. It’s essentially an art gallery featuring art from the 18th and 19th centuries and is a stunning place. I always thought The Wallace Collection was a prestigious stately home that you had to pay to get into. But that’s not the case at all. It’s prestigious in its own right due to the richness of the art and its decor. And, to reiterate, it’s free. Fun fact- FKA Twigs actually performed her latest single Cellophane one of the rooms.
The exhibition is not separate from the main display but rather featured alongside it. It is mainly on the first floor (that’s the second floor to my US readers) and towards the back of the house. Underneath the paintings are little collections of three to four pairs of Manolo’s that are said to “juxtapose an icon from contemporary fashion with Wallace’s outstanding collection”. The shoes are displayed inside a glass covering which looks like the glass that covered the rose in Beauty and the Beast. The covering makes the shoes look enchanted, however, I felt like I couldn’t always see the true beauty of the shoe through the warped glass.
The exhibition encourages you to look at more than just shoes. The decor inside is stunning and you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Since it’s located away from the main busy areas and not as well known as other galleries in London, there’s not a big crowd inside. This means you can enjoy the art without feeling like you have to move along quickly. I read an interview with Manolo Blahnik on The Guardian's website who mentioned that The Wallace Collection was very special to him and often inspired him. The exhibition definitely reflects his love for the gallery and this is shown through the careful placement of the shoes and how they don't take any attention away from the art.
I’d say it depends on the type of person you are and how interested in fashion you are in whether to go or not. The exhibition was more focused on the art inside the house as opposed to solely on the shoes. So, I’d say it was more for maturer audiences than a love-struck teen who wants to stare at the gorgeous shoes up close.
Love, Aoife xo
An Enquiring Mind: Manolo Blahnik at The Wallace Collection. Free Entry. On until 10th September.
Love, Aoife xo
An Enquiring Mind: Manolo Blahnik at The Wallace Collection. Free Entry. On until 10th September.
An Evening Of Art, History and Manolo Blahnik | An Enquiring Mind At The Wallace Collection
9 August 2019
By now you must know I have an obsession with anything created by the great designers (Balenciaga, Dior, Alaïa, Lagerfeld). I also have a great sense for sniffing out fashion exhibitions around London. If you haven’t already, definitely check out my post on the current Dior exhibition at the V&A. It's on until September!
My latest find is Manolo Blahnik at The Wallace Collection or rather An Enquiring Mind: Manolo Blahnik. The name might sound familiar if you’re a fan of Sex and The City. When Carrie gets robbed at gunpoint, he takes her Manolos and Carrie is left screaming down a Manhattan backstreet, “He’s got my strappy sandals”. For those of you who don’t know what I’m talking about, Manolo Blahnik is a famous shoe designer. His styles are iconic and you can definitely spot a them from a mile away. They have a slight renaissance feel to them from the shape of the heel to the long pointed toe. The two not always mutually exclusive.
During my internship at The Times, I had the pleasure of holding a pair of Manolos. I was sorting out some returns in the fashion cupboard which happened to include two pairs of the most gorgeous shoes. I was in awe of the the craft of the shoe and the feel of the silk. I did have to compose myself a little bit.
During my internship at The Times, I had the pleasure of holding a pair of Manolos. I was sorting out some returns in the fashion cupboard which happened to include two pairs of the most gorgeous shoes. I was in awe of the the craft of the shoe and the feel of the silk. I did have to compose myself a little bit.
The Wallace Collection is located just off of Marylebone High street and is free entry. It is housed in Hertford House that was bequeathed to the nation by Lady Wallace in 1897. It’s essentially an art gallery featuring art from the 18th and 19th centuries and is a stunning place. I always thought The Wallace Collection was a prestigious stately home that you had to pay to get into. But that’s not the case at all. It’s prestigious in its own right due to the richness of the art and its decor. And, to reiterate, it’s free. Fun fact- FKA Twigs actually performed her latest single Cellophane one of the rooms.
The exhibition is not separate from the main display but rather featured alongside it. It is mainly on the first floor (that’s the second floor to my US readers) and towards the back of the house. Underneath the paintings are little collections of three to four pairs of Manolo’s that are said to “juxtapose an icon from contemporary fashion with Wallace’s outstanding collection”. The shoes are displayed inside a glass covering which looks like the glass that covered the rose in Beauty and the Beast. The covering makes the shoes look enchanted, however, I felt like I couldn’t always see the true beauty of the shoe through the warped glass.
The exhibition encourages you to look at more than just shoes. The decor inside is stunning and you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Since it’s located away from the main busy areas and not as well known as other galleries in London, there’s not a big crowd inside. This means you can enjoy the art without feeling like you have to move along quickly. I read an interview with Manolo Blahnik on The Guardian's website who mentioned that The Wallace Collection was very special to him and often inspired him. The exhibition definitely reflects his love for the gallery and this is shown through the careful placement of the shoes and how they don't take any attention away from the art.
I’d say it depends on the type of person you are and how interested in fashion you are in whether to go or not. The exhibition was more focused on the art inside the house as opposed to solely on the shoes. So, I’d say it was more for maturer audiences than a love-struck teen who wants to stare at the gorgeous shoes up close.
Love, Aoife xo
An Enquiring Mind: Manolo Blahnik at The Wallace Collection. Free Entry. On until 10th September.
Love, Aoife xo
An Enquiring Mind: Manolo Blahnik at The Wallace Collection. Free Entry. On until 10th September.
Jumper - H&M
Bra - Calvin Klein
Jeans - Stradivarius
Shoes - White Converse, Chuck Taylors
I have always struggled with being able to look good in a jumper. I had pretty much sworn off any kind of jumper until last February (2018). During a much-needed shopping trip, I found the perfect jumper. It wasn’t too big or frumpy and worked perfectly with my petite chest. Since then, I’ve managed to conquer the jumper picking up a few tips and tricks along the way.
In the words of Patricia Bright, who I absolutely adore, “If you don’t have cleavage, you always have clavicle”. And you can apply this theory -yes, that is what we’re calling it- to everything and anything. Especially jumpers. Jumpers most of the time rely on cleavage to stop you looking frumpy but if you don’t have that, use your clavicle! Everyone has one. Find jumpers that highlight your clavicle, also known as your collarbone, the bone that runs across from shoulder to shoulder. Go for ones with lower necklines, round or V-necks. I’m currently crushing on this v-neck jumper from H&M. It’s so warm and it shows off just the right amount of skin.
On top of that, tuck the front of the jumper into a pair of high waisted jeans to give it a little edge and to break it up. It stops the jumper from looking baggy and helps it to fall in a flattering way.
Love, Aoife x
Jumper - H&M
Bra - Calvin Klein
Jeans - Stradivarius
Shoes - White Converse, Chuck Taylors
I have always struggled with being able to look good in a jumper. I had pretty much sworn off any kind of jumper until last February (2018). During a much-needed shopping trip, I found the perfect jumper. It wasn’t too big or frumpy and worked perfectly with my petite chest. Since then, I’ve managed to conquer the jumper picking up a few tips and tricks along the way.
In the words of Patricia Bright, who I absolutely adore, “If you don’t have cleavage, you always have clavicle”. And you can apply this theory -yes, that is what we’re calling it- to everything and anything. Especially jumpers. Jumpers most of the time rely on cleavage to stop you looking frumpy but if you don’t have that, use your clavicle! Everyone has one. Find jumpers that highlight your clavicle, also known as your collarbone, the bone that runs across from shoulder to shoulder. Go for ones with lower necklines, round or V-necks. I’m currently crushing on this v-neck jumper from H&M. It’s so warm and it shows off just the right amount of skin.
On top of that, tuck the front of the jumper into a pair of high waisted jeans to give it a little edge and to break it up. It stops the jumper from looking baggy and helps it to fall in a flattering way.
Love, Aoife x
We're currently 13 days into the new year and guess who's still reminiscing about the past? I know I'm a little behind but I really wanted to do this post before we got too far into the new year. I saw InTheFrow do this and a couple of other bloggers do something similar and I felt it was the perfect way to share some of my highlights from the previous year without going on a long warbly post.
February: Chancellor's Dinner, LFW Mulberry event
Thank you to everyone who made my 2018 special. I didn't realise just how much I had accomplished last year. I loved looking through all the pictures and it's definitely given me some blog post ideas. So, thank you to all my friends, you are the best support network. Thank you to my Mum, Dad and brother. Thank you for all the love on my blog too. 2019 is the year of content.
Love, Aoife x
January: Life & Death @ Kew Gardens
February: Chancellor's Dinner, LFW Mulberry event
& LWFW (London Fashion Week Festival)
March: Filmed a Beauty Blogger Video & Found my voice
April: 36 Hours in Bath
May: Finished decorating my room & Shooting in Notting Hill
June: Traveling along the Cote d'Azur & a Spainish holiday
July: Marc Jacobs Daisy event at Somerset House, Weekend in Liverpool & Notion Summer Party
August: Azzedine Alaia exhibition + going it alone
September: Moved house for the first time, Crazy Rich Asians VIP screening & Back to Uni
October + November: Jorja Smith concert & Became a Radio Presenter
December: Christmas in the new house!
Thank you to everyone who made my 2018 special. I didn't realise just how much I had accomplished last year. I loved looking through all the pictures and it's definitely given me some blog post ideas. So, thank you to all my friends, you are the best support network. Thank you to my Mum, Dad and brother. Thank you for all the love on my blog too. 2019 is the year of content.
Love, Aoife x
We're currently 13 days into the new year and guess who's still reminiscing about the past? I know I'm a little behind but I really wanted to do this post before we got too far into the new year. I saw InTheFrow do this and a couple of other bloggers do something similar and I felt it was the perfect way to share some of my highlights from the previous year without going on a long warbly post.
February: Chancellor's Dinner, LFW Mulberry event
Thank you to everyone who made my 2018 special. I didn't realise just how much I had accomplished last year. I loved looking through all the pictures and it's definitely given me some blog post ideas. So, thank you to all my friends, you are the best support network. Thank you to my Mum, Dad and brother. Thank you for all the love on my blog too. 2019 is the year of content.
Love, Aoife x
January: Life & Death @ Kew Gardens
February: Chancellor's Dinner, LFW Mulberry event
& LWFW (London Fashion Week Festival)
March: Filmed a Beauty Blogger Video & Found my voice
April: 36 Hours in Bath
May: Finished decorating my room & Shooting in Notting Hill
June: Traveling along the Cote d'Azur & a Spainish holiday
July: Marc Jacobs Daisy event at Somerset House, Weekend in Liverpool & Notion Summer Party
August: Azzedine Alaia exhibition + going it alone
September: Moved house for the first time, Crazy Rich Asians VIP screening & Back to Uni
October + November: Jorja Smith concert & Became a Radio Presenter
December: Christmas in the new house!
Thank you to everyone who made my 2018 special. I didn't realise just how much I had accomplished last year. I loved looking through all the pictures and it's definitely given me some blog post ideas. So, thank you to all my friends, you are the best support network. Thank you to my Mum, Dad and brother. Thank you for all the love on my blog too. 2019 is the year of content.
Love, Aoife x
Happy new year!! I started writing this post sharing all the lessons I had learnt in 2018 and turning them into new year's resolutions. I had it all typed out and everything. But then I thought to myself, why am I doing this? I don't know what I’ll be like in March or what my headspace will be like in August.
The truth is, I find New Year resolutions a bit of a waste of time. They just don't work for me. I find it easier to keep personal short-term goals rather than build long-term goals. I like setting myself monthly goals as a way to keep a perspective on things. So here is my first set of monthly goals for 2019!
ONE // Go to the gym at least once a week.
I joined the gym back in November and I found it mentally liberating. For however long I was in the gym for; I came out relaxed, energised and focused. I was in the same mindset that I would have after taking a holiday. This month, I’m going to try and go to the gym twice a week. If I can't then I’ll happily settle for one visit.
TWO // Let it go.
There is so much out there to be stressed and worried about than the shitty comment your friend made or petty house drama. I’m in my second year at university and it’s an important year, so this month I’m going to focus on what’s important to me and let the other stuff go. Find my inner Zen and channel that for a while. I might even start meditating.
THREE // Find my end goal again.
Somewhere between September and December, I lost sight of my end goal. The place I wanted to end up. This was something I spoke confidently about only a few months before. Around that time, I started to doubt myself and let others scepticism sink in. This month, I want to work on aligning my end goal and start working on getting there again. At the end of the day, the only person stopping you from reaching that goal is yourself. So get out of the way!
FOUR // Go Dairy free!
Well, as close as I can get to dairy free. I have been dancing around this idea for the last year and a half. Back in 2016, I decided to swap normal cow’s milk to almond milk. I also swapped normal ice cream for a dairy-free alternative which is incredibly hard when you see the new McFlurry flavours. I decided to reduce my dairy intake in the hope it would improve my skin and reduce the number of spots I get. I still get spots but the swap has definitely helped. I now feel more alert and less sluggish. I think my biggest challenge is going to be overcoming the urge to eat chocolate and having to eat a vegan cheese substitute, which stinks!
FIVE // Post more.
When I post more, I feel more productive and I love that feeling. I love working on projects and the motivation it gives you to succeed. I have a ton of draft posts that are waiting to be published and for some reason, I can’t seem to press ‘Publish’. This month, I want to focus on posting more; on my blog and on social media. Ultimately, I want to be less afraid of people's judgement and to stop comparing myself to others.
Have you got any January goals or New Year's resolutions?
Love, Aoife x
P.S- Thank you Saskia for the images xx
Happy new year!! I started writing this post sharing all the lessons I had learnt in 2018 and turning them into new year's resolutions. I had it all typed out and everything. But then I thought to myself, why am I doing this? I don't know what I’ll be like in March or what my headspace will be like in August.
The truth is, I find New Year resolutions a bit of a waste of time. They just don't work for me. I find it easier to keep personal short-term goals rather than build long-term goals. I like setting myself monthly goals as a way to keep a perspective on things. So here is my first set of monthly goals for 2019!
ONE // Go to the gym at least once a week.
I joined the gym back in November and I found it mentally liberating. For however long I was in the gym for; I came out relaxed, energised and focused. I was in the same mindset that I would have after taking a holiday. This month, I’m going to try and go to the gym twice a week. If I can't then I’ll happily settle for one visit.
TWO // Let it go.
There is so much out there to be stressed and worried about than the shitty comment your friend made or petty house drama. I’m in my second year at university and it’s an important year, so this month I’m going to focus on what’s important to me and let the other stuff go. Find my inner Zen and channel that for a while. I might even start meditating.
THREE // Find my end goal again.
Somewhere between September and December, I lost sight of my end goal. The place I wanted to end up. This was something I spoke confidently about only a few months before. Around that time, I started to doubt myself and let others scepticism sink in. This month, I want to work on aligning my end goal and start working on getting there again. At the end of the day, the only person stopping you from reaching that goal is yourself. So get out of the way!
FOUR // Go Dairy free!
Well, as close as I can get to dairy free. I have been dancing around this idea for the last year and a half. Back in 2016, I decided to swap normal cow’s milk to almond milk. I also swapped normal ice cream for a dairy-free alternative which is incredibly hard when you see the new McFlurry flavours. I decided to reduce my dairy intake in the hope it would improve my skin and reduce the number of spots I get. I still get spots but the swap has definitely helped. I now feel more alert and less sluggish. I think my biggest challenge is going to be overcoming the urge to eat chocolate and having to eat a vegan cheese substitute, which stinks!
FIVE // Post more.
When I post more, I feel more productive and I love that feeling. I love working on projects and the motivation it gives you to succeed. I have a ton of draft posts that are waiting to be published and for some reason, I can’t seem to press ‘Publish’. This month, I want to focus on posting more; on my blog and on social media. Ultimately, I want to be less afraid of people's judgement and to stop comparing myself to others.
Have you got any January goals or New Year's resolutions?
Love, Aoife x
P.S- Thank you Saskia for the images xx
The Design Museum is currently showcasing the talents of Azzedine Alaïa in Azzedine Alaïa: The Couturier. Alaïa sadly passed away last November (2017). The exhibition was co-curated with the man himself showcasing his Haute Couture and Ready To Wear collections from over the decades.
But first, what is Haute couture? Haute couture translates to 'high sewing' or in other words 'needlework'. Haute couture garments have been made to order, sewn by hand, and are fitted individually to the customer. One of the many reasons as to why couture is so exclusive and has a high price tag. Tunisian-born designer Azzedine Alaïa began his haute couture career at Christian Dior (under Yves Saint Laurent) and later at Guy Laroche before establishing his own fashion house.
I visited the exhibition a few weeks ago and it is absolutely breathtaking! It's held in this large open space and divided into mini sections, each containing a couture collection. I loved walking around the room, around the masterpieces. The silhouettes were ridiculous. Each dress was figure hugging and clung to the curves of the mannequin. I felt so inadequate surrounded by them as they stood propped up on podiums. Each mannequin had been cut to fit the dress which gave the impression it was standing up by itself. It was like each piece demanded attention and respect. For the designer and the craft.
My favourite collections from the exhibit were Exploring Volume and Sculptural Tension, Alaïa's final haute couture collection (above). Exploring Volume had a Hollywood feel, of glitz and glamour. I also loved the contrast in Sculptural Tension, between the resistance and solidity associated with metal and the delicacy of the chiffon and stature of the dress. The most unusual collection was Other Places, Other Cultures. One of the items had been made from a hair-type material; it was a little bizarre but intriguing at the same time.
Student, £10.75. Adult, £14.50. Azzedine Alaïa: The Couturier. Until 7th October. Design Museum, 224-238 Kensington High Street, W8 6AG, London. Find out more at the Design Museum.
Love, Aoife x
The Design Museum is currently showcasing the talents of Azzedine Alaïa in Azzedine Alaïa: The Couturier. Alaïa sadly passed away last November (2017). The exhibition was co-curated with the man himself showcasing his Haute Couture and Ready To Wear collections from over the decades.
But first, what is Haute couture? Haute couture translates to 'high sewing' or in other words 'needlework'. Haute couture garments have been made to order, sewn by hand, and are fitted individually to the customer. One of the many reasons as to why couture is so exclusive and has a high price tag. Tunisian-born designer Azzedine Alaïa began his haute couture career at Christian Dior (under Yves Saint Laurent) and later at Guy Laroche before establishing his own fashion house.
I visited the exhibition a few weeks ago and it is absolutely breathtaking! It's held in this large open space and divided into mini sections, each containing a couture collection. I loved walking around the room, around the masterpieces. The silhouettes were ridiculous. Each dress was figure hugging and clung to the curves of the mannequin. I felt so inadequate surrounded by them as they stood propped up on podiums. Each mannequin had been cut to fit the dress which gave the impression it was standing up by itself. It was like each piece demanded attention and respect. For the designer and the craft.My favourite collections from the exhibit were Exploring Volume and Sculptural Tension, Alaïa's final haute couture collection (above). Exploring Volume had a Hollywood feel, of glitz and glamour. I also loved the contrast in Sculptural Tension, between the resistance and solidity associated with metal and the delicacy of the chiffon and stature of the dress. The most unusual collection was Other Places, Other Cultures. One of the items had been made from a hair-type material; it was a little bizarre but intriguing at the same time.
Student, £10.75. Adult, £14.50. Azzedine Alaïa: The Couturier. Until 7th October. Design Museum, 224-238 Kensington High Street, W8 6AG, London. Find out more at the Design Museum.
Love, Aoife x
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