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
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
When was the last time you did something touristy in your city? Like actually PAY for one of the tourist attractions? Can’t remember? Well neither can I. I’ve gone to touristy areas in London, taken touristy pictures, but the last time I paid for an attraction in London was about five years ago.
It was cheaper than I thought it would be considering the prices of some London attractions. It was £9.80 for an adult (£4.20 for a child & £6.80 for a student). We went in for free as I used my time credits, something I was given for volunteering at a city of London library. They have a bunch of other cool stuff you can use them for, so I'll definitely be checking that out.
At the top of the tower is a high-level walkway which has a glass floor where you can see the road below. It didn’t scare me as much as I thought it would. After all, it would have to be quite strong to have a lot of people walking over it all day. We took lots of pictures including the classic shoe selfie.
The day was really fun and it gave me a new love for the city. When you live in a city, you tend to stay away from the attractions. You tend to visit them once when you're young and not again. It's like a 'been there, done that' type of thing.
It made a nice change to join the queue of tourists you always walk past.
Love, Aoife xo
*- This post is not sponsored or affiliated. All views are my own.
When was the last time you did something touristy in your city? Like actually PAY for one of the tourist attractions? Can’t remember? Well neither can I. I’ve gone to touristy areas in London, taken touristy pictures, but the last time I paid for an attraction in London was about five years ago.
It was cheaper than I thought it would be considering the prices of some London attractions. It was £9.80 for an adult (£4.20 for a child & £6.80 for a student). We went in for free as I used my time credits, something I was given for volunteering at a city of London library. They have a bunch of other cool stuff you can use them for, so I'll definitely be checking that out.
At the top of the tower is a high-level walkway which has a glass floor where you can see the road below. It didn’t scare me as much as I thought it would. After all, it would have to be quite strong to have a lot of people walking over it all day. We took lots of pictures including the classic shoe selfie.
The day was really fun and it gave me a new love for the city. When you live in a city, you tend to stay away from the attractions. You tend to visit them once when you're young and not again. It's like a 'been there, done that' type of thing.
It made a nice change to join the queue of tourists you always walk past.
Love, Aoife xo
*- This post is not sponsored or affiliated. All views are my own.
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
Pyjamas are awesome. And there’s nothing I love more than the feel of soft slinky pj’s rubbing against my skin. All through the summer, when I wasn’t busy wearing an oversized tee, I was rocking a short satin cami set. But you get the point, pyjamas are awesome and I love them.
The other day, I was asked by Hunkemöller* to review a pair of their pyjamas which I jumped at the chance to do. Hunkemöller is a lingerie company who make everything from lingerie to sportswear, pyjamas to swimwear. They make beautiful pieces and cater to a range of styles and sizes from small to large. So, if you’re after something cute, they have it, or something a little sexier, they have that too. They are an overseas brand who also have a base in England. Check out their collections.
I was so excited by this prospect that I spend ages scouring through their site trying to find something. There were so many pieces to choose from but I knew, as soon as I spotted it, that a pink floral playsuit was the one for me. On the model, it was slim fitting (in a flattering way), cute and feminine; exactly my style.
My order came surprisingly quickly and was wrapped beautifully in some tissue paper. I’ve ordered pyjamas online from other shops in the past and they hadn’t put this much effort into packaging it and making it feel special.
I love the lace trim detail on the neckline and lining the shorts; it gives it a cute and feminine feel. It also has a tie detail down the front which you can tie how you like.
The playsuit itself is made from a viscose material which is a mix of soft cotton and elastic. It’s soft against the skin and lightweight. Probably not the most useful in the current cold climate but it’s ideal if you don’t like wearing heavy pj’s, like me. Having said that, with an all in one, you don’t have to worry about the top riding up, keeping your belly nice and warm.
I ordered an extra small since I’m roughly a 6 and it fits well. It’s quite snug so if you’re more of an 8 than a 6, I’d go for a bigger size. It has an elasticated waist which sits nicely on my hips and causes the top to fall in a flattering way.
The straps on the back are adjustable so you can pull it tighter or wear it a little looser. I find that wearing it a little loose makes it more flattering as it falls in the right places. The straps are also crisscrossed which, I didn’t realise, make it SO comfy to wear!
Overall, this is the perfect piece for me. I hadn't heard much about Hunkemöller before they approached me but I'll definitely be checking out the rest of their collections. Plus, with Christmas on the way it might be a great place to check out.
Love, Aoife x
________________________________________________________________________________
Overall, this is the perfect piece for me. I hadn't heard much about Hunkemöller before they approached me but I'll definitely be checking out the rest of their collections. Plus, with Christmas on the way it might be a great place to check out.
Love, Aoife x
________________________________________________________________________________
*DISCLAIMER: Hunkemoller gifted these pyjamas in exchange for a fair review on my blog. This review has been written with 100% honesty. I was not financially compensated for this post and will not receive any monetary award if you click on any of the links within this post.
Pyjamas are awesome. And there’s nothing I love more than the feel of soft slinky pj’s rubbing against my skin. All through the summer, when I wasn’t busy wearing an oversized tee, I was rocking a short satin cami set. But you get the point, pyjamas are awesome and I love them.
The other day, I was asked by Hunkemöller* to review a pair of their pyjamas which I jumped at the chance to do. Hunkemöller is a lingerie company who make everything from lingerie to sportswear, pyjamas to swimwear. They make beautiful pieces and cater to a range of styles and sizes from small to large. So, if you’re after something cute, they have it, or something a little sexier, they have that too. They are an overseas brand who also have a base in England. Check out their collections.
I was so excited by this prospect that I spend ages scouring through their site trying to find something. There were so many pieces to choose from but I knew, as soon as I spotted it, that a pink floral playsuit was the one for me. On the model, it was slim fitting (in a flattering way), cute and feminine; exactly my style.
My order came surprisingly quickly and was wrapped beautifully in some tissue paper. I’ve ordered pyjamas online from other shops in the past and they hadn’t put this much effort into packaging it and making it feel special.
I love the lace trim detail on the neckline and lining the shorts; it gives it a cute and feminine feel. It also has a tie detail down the front which you can tie how you like.
The playsuit itself is made from a viscose material which is a mix of soft cotton and elastic. It’s soft against the skin and lightweight. Probably not the most useful in the current cold climate but it’s ideal if you don’t like wearing heavy pj’s, like me. Having said that, with an all in one, you don’t have to worry about the top riding up, keeping your belly nice and warm.
I ordered an extra small since I’m roughly a 6 and it fits well. It’s quite snug so if you’re more of an 8 than a 6, I’d go for a bigger size. It has an elasticated waist which sits nicely on my hips and causes the top to fall in a flattering way.
The straps on the back are adjustable so you can pull it tighter or wear it a little looser. I find that wearing it a little loose makes it more flattering as it falls in the right places. The straps are also crisscrossed which, I didn’t realise, make it SO comfy to wear!
Overall, this is the perfect piece for me. I hadn't heard much about Hunkemöller before they approached me but I'll definitely be checking out the rest of their collections. Plus, with Christmas on the way it might be a great place to check out.
Love, Aoife x
________________________________________________________________________________
Overall, this is the perfect piece for me. I hadn't heard much about Hunkemöller before they approached me but I'll definitely be checking out the rest of their collections. Plus, with Christmas on the way it might be a great place to check out.
Love, Aoife x
________________________________________________________________________________
*DISCLAIMER: Hunkemoller gifted these pyjamas in exchange for a fair review on my blog. This review has been written with 100% honesty. I was not financially compensated for this post and will not receive any monetary award if you click on any of the links within this post.
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.
What is Glossybox?
Glossybox is a beauty subscription service based in the UK and I think they have it in a few other countries too. Each box will cost you £10 plus postage. Every month they release a new box featuring five select products that are worth over £50. Some are miniature sizes and other full sizes. Occasionally these boxes come with a theme such as September had a Back to School theme and October has Halloween.
Products inside:
Your Facial Mini Scrubber- I love this! I have been using it for a couple of weeks and my skin is glowing! It is much smoother and my skin is looking clearer and purified. Facial brushes/ scrubbers are set out to lift away dead skin cells and encourage blood flow to the face, hence my newly found glow. The perk of the Your Facial is that the writing on the label will come off when it's time to replace it which I think is a really good idea because it's something I'm always forgetting.
Grow Gorgeous, Scalp detox- This is the product that I am most excited to try. I have heard of exfoliating your scalp before but never did I think I would do it. This is the mini-size version with the full 190ml costing £28. It smells gorgeous and reminds me of a Percy & Reed Conditioning mask I used to have. I have yet to try this out but I'll let you know how it goes.
Wet Ones Antibacterial Wipes- I have to admit I was a little disappointed when I found a pack of wet wipes in the box. It wasn’t quite what I was expecting from a beauty subscription box. But never less, wet wipes can prove quite helpful especially since this pack is small. Perfect for slipping into your bag.
Bang beauty, Brow Cream in Milk Chocolate- Personally, I would not trust myself with a brow cream. The texture is very creamy, as you'd expect from a brow cream. The only thing is that it wasn't as soft as I thought it would be and you have to dig a little to get some product out. The shade is a little dark but I like the end result just the same. The product also comes with a mini angled brush for application.
Karl Lagerfeld lip liner- I don't really wear much on my lips so lip liners are more of an occasional thing when I do. This is the first lip liner I have used that isn't a pencil. It's a gorgeous deep pink colour and it's soft and creamy to apply. Unfortunately, I think it's a tad too dark and pink for me.
Beauty Pro, Bubbling Cleansing Mask- Face masks are a godsend. Honestly, the most perfect invention. I once did a bubbling face mask with my friend and it was quite a fun catastrophe. When you first apply the face mask, it looks like any other sheet mask. But then it starts to foam. And before you know it, you have two inches of foam coming out of your face!
Final thoughts:
I quite like the idea of receiving a parcel every month with a bunch of goodies inside. Even though you are buying it, you don’t know what you are going to get so it’s a bit of fun opening it. Plus, the box itself is adorable and very aesthetic.
Is it VFM? In some ways it is, the products inside are collectively worth over £50. That's five times as much as you pay for the box! On the other hand, they may supply you with products that you won't use or never intended to buy. Personally, I'd see what other boxes are selling and look at other reviews before taking the plunge. I love the concept of a beauty subscription service but GlossyBox can be a little gimmicky.
What do you think of beauty subscription services?
Love, Aoife x
Is it VFM? In some ways it is, the products inside are collectively worth over £50. That's five times as much as you pay for the box! On the other hand, they may supply you with products that you won't use or never intended to buy. Personally, I'd see what other boxes are selling and look at other reviews before taking the plunge. I love the concept of a beauty subscription service but GlossyBox can be a little gimmicky.
What do you think of beauty subscription services?
Love, Aoife x
What is Glossybox?
Glossybox is a beauty subscription service based in the UK and I think they have it in a few other countries too. Each box will cost you £10 plus postage. Every month they release a new box featuring five select products that are worth over £50. Some are miniature sizes and other full sizes. Occasionally these boxes come with a theme such as September had a Back to School theme and October has Halloween.
Products inside:
Your Facial Mini Scrubber- I love this! I have been using it for a couple of weeks and my skin is glowing! It is much smoother and my skin is looking clearer and purified. Facial brushes/ scrubbers are set out to lift away dead skin cells and encourage blood flow to the face, hence my newly found glow. The perk of the Your Facial is that the writing on the label will come off when it's time to replace it which I think is a really good idea because it's something I'm always forgetting.
Grow Gorgeous, Scalp detox- This is the product that I am most excited to try. I have heard of exfoliating your scalp before but never did I think I would do it. This is the mini-size version with the full 190ml costing £28. It smells gorgeous and reminds me of a Percy & Reed Conditioning mask I used to have. I have yet to try this out but I'll let you know how it goes.
Wet Ones Antibacterial Wipes- I have to admit I was a little disappointed when I found a pack of wet wipes in the box. It wasn’t quite what I was expecting from a beauty subscription box. But never less, wet wipes can prove quite helpful especially since this pack is small. Perfect for slipping into your bag.
Bang beauty, Brow Cream in Milk Chocolate- Personally, I would not trust myself with a brow cream. The texture is very creamy, as you'd expect from a brow cream. The only thing is that it wasn't as soft as I thought it would be and you have to dig a little to get some product out. The shade is a little dark but I like the end result just the same. The product also comes with a mini angled brush for application.
Karl Lagerfeld lip liner- I don't really wear much on my lips so lip liners are more of an occasional thing when I do. This is the first lip liner I have used that isn't a pencil. It's a gorgeous deep pink colour and it's soft and creamy to apply. Unfortunately, I think it's a tad too dark and pink for me.
Beauty Pro, Bubbling Cleansing Mask- Face masks are a godsend. Honestly, the most perfect invention. I once did a bubbling face mask with my friend and it was quite a fun catastrophe. When you first apply the face mask, it looks like any other sheet mask. But then it starts to foam. And before you know it, you have two inches of foam coming out of your face!
Final thoughts:
I quite like the idea of receiving a parcel every month with a bunch of goodies inside. Even though you are buying it, you don’t know what you are going to get so it’s a bit of fun opening it. Plus, the box itself is adorable and very aesthetic.
Is it VFM? In some ways it is, the products inside are collectively worth over £50. That's five times as much as you pay for the box! On the other hand, they may supply you with products that you won't use or never intended to buy. Personally, I'd see what other boxes are selling and look at other reviews before taking the plunge. I love the concept of a beauty subscription service but GlossyBox can be a little gimmicky.
What do you think of beauty subscription services?
Love, Aoife x
Is it VFM? In some ways it is, the products inside are collectively worth over £50. That's five times as much as you pay for the box! On the other hand, they may supply you with products that you won't use or never intended to buy. Personally, I'd see what other boxes are selling and look at other reviews before taking the plunge. I love the concept of a beauty subscription service but GlossyBox can be a little gimmicky.
What do you think of beauty subscription services?
Love, Aoife x
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