Showing posts with label The Caitie Diaries. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The Caitie Diaries. Show all posts
It’s been four years since the sold-out Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty exhibition. This year the V&A, named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, has curated another majestic exhibition about the talented Christian Dior: Designer of dreams. And it is just as magical as you would think.
The day had been a long one coming. I had been waiting since February last year when I found out there would be a Christian Dior exhibition. I was so prepared for it that I purchased a student museum membership just to guarantee access to what was likely to be a sold-out exhibition. It was only £30 and I get access to all the exhibitions for free and I can go as many times as I please. Bargain! When the day finally came, I realised it was International Women’s day. A coincidence as the exhibition is about a man who celebrated the female body; “Dedicated to the beauty of the female body.”
What I love most about exhibitions like these, based on couture, is that you can gain a real insight into the brand and an appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into all the pieces. All the time people think of fashion as what’s on the rails in their local high street store but fashion is also the limited couture pieces. They've been made to fit and created individually by a whole team of seamstresses. That’s true art.
The first room of the exhibition is filled with pictures of a young Christian Dior that tell the story of how he came to be one of the worlds most famous designers. As you moved through, each room capsulated a part of the Fashion house. From the OG silhouettes and pieces such as the famous dress worn by Princess Anne for her birthday. To special rooms dedicated to the designs inspired by the 18th century, flowers and ball gowns.
The most beautiful room was The Garden Room. On the ceiling was the most intricate piece of art I had ever seen, thousands if not millions of paper garlands had been shaped to look like flowers. I later found out it was by Wanda Barcelona called Les Invasions paper garden. On a platform which went around the room stood dresses inspired by Dior’s love of flowers; “After women, flowers are the most divine of creations.”
There was a mix of dresses through the ages and it was cool to see how each designer had used flowers as inspiration to create something unique. One of my favourite dresses was covered in individually painted feathers. From a distance, it looked like dried flowers you might find in a meadow, but on closer inspection were thousands of painted small feathers. It was probably my favourite dress because you could see the beauty up close, the cleverness of the design, and incredible craftsmanship.
There was a mix of dresses through the ages and it was cool to see how each designer had used flowers as inspiration to create something unique. One of my favourite dresses was covered in individually painted feathers. From a distance, it looked like dried flowers you might find in a meadow, but on closer inspection were thousands of painted small feathers. It was probably my favourite dress because you could see the beauty up close, the cleverness of the design, and incredible craftsmanship.
Since Christian Dior’s sudden passing in 1957, there have been 8 creative directors since. Including Yves Saint Laurent who later went on to design for his own label, John Galliano, Raf Simons and Maria Grazia Chiuri to name a few. As you walk through one of the large rooms you can see some of the designs that each creative director has done and contributed to the fashion label.
The last room of the exhibition was black. As you walked through it, on the left-hand side was a platform surrounded by floor to ceiling mirrors. In the centre of that platform, with a white backlight, was the most beautiful dress I had ever seen. Layers and layers of pleated delicate tulle flowed to the ground. The mirrors around the platform allowed you to see the stunning ruffled train which defied gravity at the top as it trailed down the back. The dress was designed by the first and current female creative director Marie Grazia Chiuri and had been presented in Shanghai at the Spring/Summer 2018 haute couture collection. She had been inspired by a 1950’s promotional fan for the house of Dior and the skirt is embroidered with same Dior signature. All I can say is that I wish I could wear a dress like that.
Just when I started to lose hope in the fashion world and at how disposable it has become, an exhibition like this has brought my belief back that there is more than just the throwaway culture. There is a whole legacy that has been left behind by the great fashion leaders and continues to be nurtured by designers. Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams is a stunning exhibition showcasing amazing the most amazing pieces. 100% recommended to anyone who is able to appreciate.
As expected the Christian Dior exhibition is sold out indefinitely, and due to the immense popularity, they’ve decided to extend the closing date till September. Yay!
Love, Aoife xo
As expected the Christian Dior exhibition is sold out indefinitely, and due to the immense popularity, they’ve decided to extend the closing date till September. Yay!
Love, Aoife xo
It’s been four years since the sold-out Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty exhibition. This year the V&A, named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, has curated another majestic exhibition about the talented Christian Dior: Designer of dreams. And it is just as magical as you would think.
The day had been a long one coming. I had been waiting since February last year when I found out there would be a Christian Dior exhibition. I was so prepared for it that I purchased a student museum membership just to guarantee access to what was likely to be a sold-out exhibition. It was only £30 and I get access to all the exhibitions for free and I can go as many times as I please. Bargain! When the day finally came, I realised it was International Women’s day. A coincidence as the exhibition is about a man who celebrated the female body; “Dedicated to the beauty of the female body.”
What I love most about exhibitions like these, based on couture, is that you can gain a real insight into the brand and an appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into all the pieces. All the time people think of fashion as what’s on the rails in their local high street store but fashion is also the limited couture pieces. They've been made to fit and created individually by a whole team of seamstresses. That’s true art.
The first room of the exhibition is filled with pictures of a young Christian Dior that tell the story of how he came to be one of the worlds most famous designers. As you moved through, each room capsulated a part of the Fashion house. From the OG silhouettes and pieces such as the famous dress worn by Princess Anne for her birthday. To special rooms dedicated to the designs inspired by the 18th century, flowers and ball gowns.
The most beautiful room was The Garden Room. On the ceiling was the most intricate piece of art I had ever seen, thousands if not millions of paper garlands had been shaped to look like flowers. I later found out it was by Wanda Barcelona called Les Invasions paper garden. On a platform which went around the room stood dresses inspired by Dior’s love of flowers; “After women, flowers are the most divine of creations.”
There was a mix of dresses through the ages and it was cool to see how each designer had used flowers as inspiration to create something unique. One of my favourite dresses was covered in individually painted feathers. From a distance, it looked like dried flowers you might find in a meadow, but on closer inspection were thousands of painted small feathers. It was probably my favourite dress because you could see the beauty up close, the cleverness of the design, and incredible craftsmanship.
There was a mix of dresses through the ages and it was cool to see how each designer had used flowers as inspiration to create something unique. One of my favourite dresses was covered in individually painted feathers. From a distance, it looked like dried flowers you might find in a meadow, but on closer inspection were thousands of painted small feathers. It was probably my favourite dress because you could see the beauty up close, the cleverness of the design, and incredible craftsmanship.
Since Christian Dior’s sudden passing in 1957, there have been 8 creative directors since. Including Yves Saint Laurent who later went on to design for his own label, John Galliano, Raf Simons and Maria Grazia Chiuri to name a few. As you walk through one of the large rooms you can see some of the designs that each creative director has done and contributed to the fashion label.
The last room of the exhibition was black. As you walked through it, on the left-hand side was a platform surrounded by floor to ceiling mirrors. In the centre of that platform, with a white backlight, was the most beautiful dress I had ever seen. Layers and layers of pleated delicate tulle flowed to the ground. The mirrors around the platform allowed you to see the stunning ruffled train which defied gravity at the top as it trailed down the back. The dress was designed by the first and current female creative director Marie Grazia Chiuri and had been presented in Shanghai at the Spring/Summer 2018 haute couture collection. She had been inspired by a 1950’s promotional fan for the house of Dior and the skirt is embroidered with same Dior signature. All I can say is that I wish I could wear a dress like that.
Just when I started to lose hope in the fashion world and at how disposable it has become, an exhibition like this has brought my belief back that there is more than just the throwaway culture. There is a whole legacy that has been left behind by the great fashion leaders and continues to be nurtured by designers. Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams is a stunning exhibition showcasing amazing the most amazing pieces. 100% recommended to anyone who is able to appreciate.
As expected the Christian Dior exhibition is sold out indefinitely, and due to the immense popularity, they’ve decided to extend the closing date till September. Yay!
Love, Aoife xo
As expected the Christian Dior exhibition is sold out indefinitely, and due to the immense popularity, they’ve decided to extend the closing date till September. Yay!
Love, Aoife xo
It was International Women's Day yesterday and I wanted to dedicate this post to all the amazing women out there. Today's post features a book that I really connected with over Christmas break and celebrates everything female and everything gender equality too. It's written by an amazing spread of women but read the post and I'll tell you more. Aoife x
Feminism; a word, that sadly, has the power to start wars but also, to unite people. What does feminism mean to you? To me, it’s about having equal rights. For someone to look at both a male and a female and acknowledge they have the capability to achieve the same things; for them to actually look at us and see value; to be treated the same way.
* * *
Feminism; a word, that sadly, has the power to start wars but also, to unite people. What does feminism mean to you? To me, it’s about having equal rights. For someone to look at both a male and a female and acknowledge they have the capability to achieve the same things; for them to actually look at us and see value; to be treated the same way.
Feminists Don’t Wear Pink And Other Lies (curated by Scarlett Curtis) is a book made up of essays written by a variety of influential women from film stars to influencers to activists and many more. Each essay shares the writers' relationship they have with the F word. Some of them are quite funny and others are more on the emotional side. One thing that’s clear is everyone has a different relationship with the word. And fundamentally the same principle -of achieving equal rights- forms the basis of all their meanings. That’s my most favourite thing about the book; it accepts that everyone is going to see things differently and celebrates that fact.
And in reality, feminists can wear pink. I call myself a feminist and half my wardrobe is a dusty shade of pink. Feminists can also wear pads and tampons. They can wear baggy clothes, tight clothes, loads of clothes or hardly any clothes at all; and still, be a feminist.
One of my favourite essays in the book is Evanna Lynch's Cat Women. She wrote a piece on how she thought period pants made you more of a feminist. The idea buying tampons and pads were a patriarchal communist strategy, and a real feminist wouldn’t give in to that. In the end, she realised that period pants weren’t for her, and she’d be a tampon wearing feminist. It was written in a comical way but also expressed underlying self-doubt. The idea that I’m less of a feminist than her because I don’t do this. And the truth is, you’re a feminist regardless.
Instead of me talking about the book, here are three reasons why you should open this book and give it a read:
- Our versions of what a 'feminist' is are all different. This book features a wide range of women’s opinions, and collectively, they’re all related in some way. You’ll find yourself somewhere in the pages while reading it.
- It’s enlightening. Feminism is not just a black-and-white type of word; it’s a multi-faceted, multi-coloured word. Usually, when it comes to books on such topics, it’s written by one person who shares a one-sided view. More often than not, they’re white. This book contains more than one view and from more than one race. It’s not written by one white feminist but rather by women of all cultures, representing a larger group of feminists.
- It’s not just a bunch of essays. 'Essay' is such a boring word *yawn*. Although they use the word, it’s not your typical boring introduction, argument, argument, argument, conclusion. They’re creative writing pieces. Some people have gone for the simple mini stories while others have gone for poetry or actual essays. Each piece is someone’s account of something they feel contributes to our understanding of feminism.
I understand that a book on feminism isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, it's not really mine. And I get that there’s a stigma around openly showcasing that you’re a feminist. At uni, I told my Flatmate’s I’d joined the feminist society, and got eye rolls thrown at me. “Oh, she’s one of them.” The truth is, you have to own that identity. If you admit to yourself that you’re a feminist, and other people have a problem with that, are you really the one at fault? No, hun.
Read the book, give it a try. There’s nothing to lose from it. I loved this book. It’s not really an educational book (although, there’s a bit at the end which is) it’s a book about understanding and sharing each other's stories. I’m going to write a blog post soon on what my relationship with feminism is, so keep your eyes out for that.
Have you read it yet or will you be giving it a go?
Love, Aoife xo
It was International Women's Day yesterday and I wanted to dedicate this post to all the amazing women out there. Today's post features a book that I really connected with over Christmas break and celebrates everything female and everything gender equality too. It's written by an amazing spread of women but read the post and I'll tell you more. Aoife x
Feminism; a word, that sadly, has the power to start wars but also, to unite people. What does feminism mean to you? To me, it’s about having equal rights. For someone to look at both a male and a female and acknowledge they have the capability to achieve the same things; for them to actually look at us and see value; to be treated the same way.
* * *
Feminism; a word, that sadly, has the power to start wars but also, to unite people. What does feminism mean to you? To me, it’s about having equal rights. For someone to look at both a male and a female and acknowledge they have the capability to achieve the same things; for them to actually look at us and see value; to be treated the same way.
Feminists Don’t Wear Pink And Other Lies (curated by Scarlett Curtis) is a book made up of essays written by a variety of influential women from film stars to influencers to activists and many more. Each essay shares the writers' relationship they have with the F word. Some of them are quite funny and others are more on the emotional side. One thing that’s clear is everyone has a different relationship with the word. And fundamentally the same principle -of achieving equal rights- forms the basis of all their meanings. That’s my most favourite thing about the book; it accepts that everyone is going to see things differently and celebrates that fact.
And in reality, feminists can wear pink. I call myself a feminist and half my wardrobe is a dusty shade of pink. Feminists can also wear pads and tampons. They can wear baggy clothes, tight clothes, loads of clothes or hardly any clothes at all; and still, be a feminist.
One of my favourite essays in the book is Evanna Lynch's Cat Women. She wrote a piece on how she thought period pants made you more of a feminist. The idea buying tampons and pads were a patriarchal communist strategy, and a real feminist wouldn’t give in to that. In the end, she realised that period pants weren’t for her, and she’d be a tampon wearing feminist. It was written in a comical way but also expressed underlying self-doubt. The idea that I’m less of a feminist than her because I don’t do this. And the truth is, you’re a feminist regardless.
Instead of me talking about the book, here are three reasons why you should open this book and give it a read:
- Our versions of what a 'feminist' is are all different. This book features a wide range of women’s opinions, and collectively, they’re all related in some way. You’ll find yourself somewhere in the pages while reading it.
- It’s enlightening. Feminism is not just a black-and-white type of word; it’s a multi-faceted, multi-coloured word. Usually, when it comes to books on such topics, it’s written by one person who shares a one-sided view. More often than not, they’re white. This book contains more than one view and from more than one race. It’s not written by one white feminist but rather by women of all cultures, representing a larger group of feminists.
- It’s not just a bunch of essays. 'Essay' is such a boring word *yawn*. Although they use the word, it’s not your typical boring introduction, argument, argument, argument, conclusion. They’re creative writing pieces. Some people have gone for the simple mini stories while others have gone for poetry or actual essays. Each piece is someone’s account of something they feel contributes to our understanding of feminism.
I understand that a book on feminism isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, it's not really mine. And I get that there’s a stigma around openly showcasing that you’re a feminist. At uni, I told my Flatmate’s I’d joined the feminist society, and got eye rolls thrown at me. “Oh, she’s one of them.” The truth is, you have to own that identity. If you admit to yourself that you’re a feminist, and other people have a problem with that, are you really the one at fault? No, hun.
Read the book, give it a try. There’s nothing to lose from it. I loved this book. It’s not really an educational book (although, there’s a bit at the end which is) it’s a book about understanding and sharing each other's stories. I’m going to write a blog post soon on what my relationship with feminism is, so keep your eyes out for that.
Have you read it yet or will you be giving it a go?
Love, Aoife xo
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 only thing blaring through my headphones until about a month ago was music. Now, it’s podcasts. While they have been around for some time, podcasts have become quite a phenomenon in recent years. The momentum continues to grow with more listeners tuning in and more podcasts saturating the market. The good podcasts are a little harder to find with every podcast catering to what it seems like every type of person in the world. Whether you’re on the way to somewhere or waiting between lectures, podcasts are the perfect company. And if they’re done well, you feel right there with the presenters. Here are five of my favourite lifestyle and fashion podcasts.
ONE // The BoF podcast (a.k.a. Business of Fashion)
The Business of Fashion, or the BoF for short, is like The Economist equivalent for fashion. They publish business-related news about fashion, providing insight into issues among the industry as well as movement within top brands.
In their podcast, they interview industry professionals from former models, Liya Kebede, to famous designers, including Katherine Hamnett and Alexandre Mattiussi of AMI. Their podcasts provide listeners with insight into their guests’ lives – how they grew up, what attracted them to fashion and where do they see the industry going, to name a few. Their guests relate to the current affairs in the fashion industry, keeping you in the know of what’s going on and who the key players are.
Fave episode: Derek Blasberg's plans for YouTube / Marco Bizzarri on China's Role in Gucci's $10 Billion Plan.
TWO // Table Manners with Jessie Ware
This has to be one of the funniest podcasts I have ever listened to. Between singer Jessie Ware, her Mum and a celebrity guest who sit around Jessie’s kitchen table; they have me in stitches. They have a good natter about everything under the sun from work and what's going on in their lives to their favourite dishes. Which has me dreaming about delicious food for the rest of the day. You can also catch the dirt on your favourite celebrities.
This podcast is very raw from the chair scraping on the floor to cupboards opening and closing and the rattle of crockery, all of which makes it feel like your right at the table with them.
Fave episode: Stefflon Don.
THREE // Feminists Don’t Wear Pink
…and other lies. Scarlett Curtis, author of Feminists Don’t Wear Pink and Other Lies, a collection of essays from empowering activists, actresses and influencers featuring Adoah Aboah and Saoirse Ronan. Scarlett brings the book to life in her podcast interviewing inspiring women about what feminism means to them and why it matters. As well as what feminist lies they’ve heard/ been told. Despite feminism being perceived as a heavy topic, this podcast is incredibly light, insightful and throws out all the pre-conceived notions you know about feminism.
I’ve just started reading the book and I love it already. It’s all about what feminism means to these women and the relationship they have with it. I’ll probably do a review on it when I have finished reading it.
Fave episode: Saoirse Ronan.
FOUR // The Sunday Social
Is blogging dying? What’s life like after Love Island? Why is the media transfixed with trans women? Lifestyle blogger and YouTuber Lucy Moon encourages the conversation around pop culture trends in music, film and entertainment. Lucy brings guests – from fellow bloggers, YouTubers, authors and love island contestants- to feature in her episodes.
This podcast is a little more intellectual than Table Manners and more serious than Feminists Don't Wear Pink but it's great nonetheless. Lucy speaks very fluently and smartly on the subjects. I think the Sunday Social is aptly named as it's the kind of conversations you can imagine having over a relaxed Sunday breakfast. The kind with a cup of coffee and a newspaper in front of you.
Fave episode: Is blogging dying?
FIVE // Fashion No Filter
Camille Charriere and Monica Ainley, both fashion journalists, give a behind the scenes glance at how the industry operates. Useful if you want to know more about one of the world’s exclusive industries. In a recent episode, the duo interviewed Eva Chen, head of fashion partnerships at Instagram. She has been popping up on a lot of the vlogs and articles I tend to read. She, in short, is the go-to girl at Instagram keeping up you up to date and aware of algorithms. On top of that, she has one of the most impressive CVs, climbing her way to the top national magazines before moving over to Instagram.
Fashion No Filter keeps fashion at the focus of the podcast, discussing topics that very much at the centre of the fashion world.
Fave episode: Behind the Instagram Algorithm with Eva Chen.
The only thing blaring through my headphones until about a month ago was music. Now, it’s podcasts. While they have been around for some time, podcasts have become quite a phenomenon in recent years. The momentum continues to grow with more listeners tuning in and more podcasts saturating the market. The good podcasts are a little harder to find with every podcast catering to what it seems like every type of person in the world. Whether you’re on the way to somewhere or waiting between lectures, podcasts are the perfect company. And if they’re done well, you feel right there with the presenters. Here are five of my favourite lifestyle and fashion podcasts.
ONE // The BoF podcast (a.k.a. Business of Fashion)
The Business of Fashion, or the BoF for short, is like The Economist equivalent for fashion. They publish business-related news about fashion, providing insight into issues among the industry as well as movement within top brands.
In their podcast, they interview industry professionals from former models, Liya Kebede, to famous designers, including Katherine Hamnett and Alexandre Mattiussi of AMI. Their podcasts provide listeners with insight into their guests’ lives – how they grew up, what attracted them to fashion and where do they see the industry going, to name a few. Their guests relate to the current affairs in the fashion industry, keeping you in the know of what’s going on and who the key players are.
Fave episode: Derek Blasberg's plans for YouTube / Marco Bizzarri on China's Role in Gucci's $10 Billion Plan.
TWO // Table Manners with Jessie Ware
This has to be one of the funniest podcasts I have ever listened to. Between singer Jessie Ware, her Mum and a celebrity guest who sit around Jessie’s kitchen table; they have me in stitches. They have a good natter about everything under the sun from work and what's going on in their lives to their favourite dishes. Which has me dreaming about delicious food for the rest of the day. You can also catch the dirt on your favourite celebrities.
This podcast is very raw from the chair scraping on the floor to cupboards opening and closing and the rattle of crockery, all of which makes it feel like your right at the table with them.
Fave episode: Stefflon Don.
THREE // Feminists Don’t Wear Pink
…and other lies. Scarlett Curtis, author of Feminists Don’t Wear Pink and Other Lies, a collection of essays from empowering activists, actresses and influencers featuring Adoah Aboah and Saoirse Ronan. Scarlett brings the book to life in her podcast interviewing inspiring women about what feminism means to them and why it matters. As well as what feminist lies they’ve heard/ been told. Despite feminism being perceived as a heavy topic, this podcast is incredibly light, insightful and throws out all the pre-conceived notions you know about feminism.
I’ve just started reading the book and I love it already. It’s all about what feminism means to these women and the relationship they have with it. I’ll probably do a review on it when I have finished reading it.
Fave episode: Saoirse Ronan.
FOUR // The Sunday Social
Is blogging dying? What’s life like after Love Island? Why is the media transfixed with trans women? Lifestyle blogger and YouTuber Lucy Moon encourages the conversation around pop culture trends in music, film and entertainment. Lucy brings guests – from fellow bloggers, YouTubers, authors and love island contestants- to feature in her episodes.
This podcast is a little more intellectual than Table Manners and more serious than Feminists Don't Wear Pink but it's great nonetheless. Lucy speaks very fluently and smartly on the subjects. I think the Sunday Social is aptly named as it's the kind of conversations you can imagine having over a relaxed Sunday breakfast. The kind with a cup of coffee and a newspaper in front of you.
Fave episode: Is blogging dying?
FIVE // Fashion No Filter
Camille Charriere and Monica Ainley, both fashion journalists, give a behind the scenes glance at how the industry operates. Useful if you want to know more about one of the world’s exclusive industries. In a recent episode, the duo interviewed Eva Chen, head of fashion partnerships at Instagram. She has been popping up on a lot of the vlogs and articles I tend to read. She, in short, is the go-to girl at Instagram keeping up you up to date and aware of algorithms. On top of that, she has one of the most impressive CVs, climbing her way to the top national magazines before moving over to Instagram.
Fashion No Filter keeps fashion at the focus of the podcast, discussing topics that very much at the centre of the fashion world.
Fave episode: Behind the Instagram Algorithm with Eva Chen.
I absolutely love how my bedroom has turned out! Everything about it is perfect and so much better than I was expecting. The room was completely renovated; walls re-plastered, window frame painted and the floorboards underneath were white-washed. All of which is a far cry from the navy carpet and dark green walls before.
In decorating my room, I wanted to create a light and open space. Something feminine and chic. I love that typical Parisian style and the soft palette of neutral colours and textures. I wanted to include elements of this in my room so I added a couple of black accents (curtain rail, bedside table, photo frames) to contrast the light grey and to add chic feel. To magnify the light and airy feel, I opted for linen curtains. They don’t block out any light and are more of a design feature than anything practical. I love how they let the light shine through and create a glow in the room in the morning.
My favourite part is the area around my bed. It’s the perfect place to snuggle up in the evenings especially with the Christmas tree lights wrapped around the headboard. Above the headboard are a couple of Desenio prints. I am completely in love with them! The ones I have chosen are bold, elegant and feminine. All of which complement the ambience of the room.
Love, Aoife x
I absolutely love how my bedroom has turned out! Everything about it is perfect and so much better than I was expecting. The room was completely renovated; walls re-plastered, window frame painted and the floorboards underneath were white-washed. All of which is a far cry from the navy carpet and dark green walls before.
In decorating my room, I wanted to create a light and open space. Something feminine and chic. I love that typical Parisian style and the soft palette of neutral colours and textures. I wanted to include elements of this in my room so I added a couple of black accents (curtain rail, bedside table, photo frames) to contrast the light grey and to add chic feel. To magnify the light and airy feel, I opted for linen curtains. They don’t block out any light and are more of a design feature than anything practical. I love how they let the light shine through and create a glow in the room in the morning.
My favourite part is the area around my bed. It’s the perfect place to snuggle up in the evenings especially with the Christmas tree lights wrapped around the headboard. Above the headboard are a couple of Desenio prints. I am completely in love with them! The ones I have chosen are bold, elegant and feminine. All of which complement the ambience of the room.
Love, Aoife x
There is something magical about the French Riviera. From the blueness of the sea, the natural beauty of the coastline and the atmosphere; it can't be experienced anywhere else. Nice is a gorgeous city and my holiday there was a dream. My bestie and I had so much fun travelling around.
The best way to explore a city is on foot. One the first day, we found ourselves doing exactly that; exploring the local area and scoping out a couple of bakeries for us to grab a cheeky pastry or two. With the sea covering one side of the city, it's hard to get lost and we left our map in our bags most of the time. Check out the Russian Orthodox Church, Villa Masséna Musée and Place Masséna to make the most out of your visit.
Travel tip- Did you know you can download an offline version of Google Maps? It was life savour on our holiday especially as I struggled to get an internet connection.
Travel tip- Did you know you can download an offline version of Google Maps? It was life savour on our holiday especially as I struggled to get an internet connection.
One of my favourite activities from the holiday was renting a Velo Bleu (city bikes). It was cheaper than we thought and a really fun way to explore the coastline and city. We cycled along the Promenade des Anglais, which wraps around the whole coast of Nice, up around this hill and around the harbour on the other side. On top of the hill are some amazing views of the city below. We also spotted the #ILoveNice sign where, of course, we had to take a few pictures.
No holiday is a holiday without a trip to the beach. Throughout the day, we kept finding ourselves wandering down to the beach to listen to the waves. The beaches are pebbly but it's comfier than you'd think. There are a few private beaches along the coastline which are ideal if you're looking to completely unwind for the day. Or for a more casual affair, you can sit on the pebbles, sunbathe and soak up the sun. There are a couple of sandy beaches only a short train away in Cannes or Antibes.
On one of the days, we visited Cannes. It was about €10 each for a return. It was a pretty chill day as we walked around the harbour, Le Vieux Port, picking out which yachts we wanted to own and discussing our yacht lifestyle.
We wandered over to the Palais des Festivals, famously known for the location of the Cannes Film festival. Next to the Palais is a little park which is a gorgeous oasis of tall palm trees and vibrant green grass. Along the pathway, you can find paving stones with celebrity handprints and signatures, sort of like Cannes’ own walk of fame. On the other side of the road is where you can find all the designer stores: Chanel, Gucci, Dior and Fendi etc.
For the rest of the day, we chilled on the beach soaking up the relaxed atmosphere until it was time to go back.
We wandered over to the Palais des Festivals, famously known for the location of the Cannes Film festival. Next to the Palais is a little park which is a gorgeous oasis of tall palm trees and vibrant green grass. Along the pathway, you can find paving stones with celebrity handprints and signatures, sort of like Cannes’ own walk of fame. On the other side of the road is where you can find all the designer stores: Chanel, Gucci, Dior and Fendi etc.
For the rest of the day, we chilled on the beach soaking up the relaxed atmosphere until it was time to go back.
On our last day, we sat on the beach to listen and watch the waves. We managed to catch a glimpse of the beautiful sun as it set over the horizon. It was a magical end to our wonderful trip. Nice is one of the most relaxing places I’ve been too and I can't wait to go back again.
Check out my Lookbook here.
Love, Aoife x
There is something magical about the French Riviera. From the blueness of the sea, the natural beauty of the coastline and the atmosphere; it can't be experienced anywhere else. Nice is a gorgeous city and my holiday there was a dream. My bestie and I had so much fun travelling around.
The best way to explore a city is on foot. One the first day, we found ourselves doing exactly that; exploring the local area and scoping out a couple of bakeries for us to grab a cheeky pastry or two. With the sea covering one side of the city, it's hard to get lost and we left our map in our bags most of the time. Check out the Russian Orthodox Church, Villa Masséna Musée and Place Masséna to make the most out of your visit.
Travel tip- Did you know you can download an offline version of Google Maps? It was life savour on our holiday especially as I struggled to get an internet connection.
Travel tip- Did you know you can download an offline version of Google Maps? It was life savour on our holiday especially as I struggled to get an internet connection.
One of my favourite activities from the holiday was renting a Velo Bleu (city bikes). It was cheaper than we thought and a really fun way to explore the coastline and city. We cycled along the Promenade des Anglais, which wraps around the whole coast of Nice, up around this hill and around the harbour on the other side. On top of the hill are some amazing views of the city below. We also spotted the #ILoveNice sign where, of course, we had to take a few pictures.
No holiday is a holiday without a trip to the beach. Throughout the day, we kept finding ourselves wandering down to the beach to listen to the waves. The beaches are pebbly but it's comfier than you'd think. There are a few private beaches along the coastline which are ideal if you're looking to completely unwind for the day. Or for a more casual affair, you can sit on the pebbles, sunbathe and soak up the sun. There are a couple of sandy beaches only a short train away in Cannes or Antibes.
On one of the days, we visited Cannes. It was about €10 each for a return. It was a pretty chill day as we walked around the harbour, Le Vieux Port, picking out which yachts we wanted to own and discussing our yacht lifestyle.
We wandered over to the Palais des Festivals, famously known for the location of the Cannes Film festival. Next to the Palais is a little park which is a gorgeous oasis of tall palm trees and vibrant green grass. Along the pathway, you can find paving stones with celebrity handprints and signatures, sort of like Cannes’ own walk of fame. On the other side of the road is where you can find all the designer stores: Chanel, Gucci, Dior and Fendi etc.
For the rest of the day, we chilled on the beach soaking up the relaxed atmosphere until it was time to go back.
We wandered over to the Palais des Festivals, famously known for the location of the Cannes Film festival. Next to the Palais is a little park which is a gorgeous oasis of tall palm trees and vibrant green grass. Along the pathway, you can find paving stones with celebrity handprints and signatures, sort of like Cannes’ own walk of fame. On the other side of the road is where you can find all the designer stores: Chanel, Gucci, Dior and Fendi etc.
For the rest of the day, we chilled on the beach soaking up the relaxed atmosphere until it was time to go back.
On our last day, we sat on the beach to listen and watch the waves. We managed to catch a glimpse of the beautiful sun as it set over the horizon. It was a magical end to our wonderful trip. Nice is one of the most relaxing places I’ve been too and I can't wait to go back again.
Check out my Lookbook here.
Love, Aoife x
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