Family Affair

Topshop dress, Bangles from Portobello, H&M, and Kabiri

My parents live on opposite sides of the world (well Seattle and Hong Kong) and both rarely set foot in my current home, London. We are not the super-close, affectionate, cannot go a day without speaking with each other type of family so this seems appropriate, but my Dad's two day visit has come as a very welcome and pleasant surprise. Not only is he a fashion savvy, I wear True Religion jeans/Roberto Cavalli leather jacket, loves delectable food, and great bars type of guy, but his amazingly generous and fun nature always results in a great reunion. We sampled the menu at Scott's Mayfair for his first night. After ordering enough wine and seafood to feed the entire restaurant and devouring every last morsel, we ended the night on a great note. The somewhat pretentious nature did nudge our nerves slightly, but could not ruin our tastebud's fabulous experience. Tomorrow night Electric Brasserie for some familiar, laidback fun...

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Repeat

Topshop dress, Topshop beanie, Versace jacket, Chloe Paddington bag.

Michelle is wearing Topshop top, Warehouse clutch, Primark belt.

The boy and I are in Brighton again for the weekend for an impromptu reunion/evening at the pub. With friends scattered in all corners of the friendly establishment, a good time was had by all. The night was so enjoyable the boy doesn't even seem to remember the journey home or devouring the entire contents of the fridge.

I am having a slight blog outfit repeat moment, and was in the mood for the Topshop dress to have a second session. In honor of the clocks descending forward into summer time, I went sans tights, but still kept warm with a beanie atop my head. Weren't we told when we were kids that heat escapes from the head, or is that just something I'm making up?

Off to lunch at Hotel du Vin. Have a fabulous Saturday!

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xoxo

Blazin'

Blazer Topshop Unique, Tank H&M, Skirt custonized Von Dutch, Heels Zara, Hat Aldo

After an early a.m. session of drooling over Alexander Wang and Stella McCartney collections, past and present, I found the urge to acquire an oversized blazer that is any colour but black. I'm thinking a light grey or nude. I am not a fan of blazers worn in a formal manner, but love a loose fitting, sleeves rolled up, paired with torn denim or loose shorts blazer look. It creates the perfect effortless, chic silhouette and can transform something trashy into edgy, something ultra casual into urban sophistication. I only own a black one for now, but with all the spring blazer dreaming I had to add it to my outfit.

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Bodycon Mania

If you haven't already noticed from previous posts, I'm developing a slight fetish for bodycon. If it's tight and paneled I'm usually there. The growing addiction is causing me to need/want/lust after a perfectly fabulous Herve Leger piece. The holy grail of bodycon always manages to serve up the perfect colour, cut, and texture, bundling women into creations that are are sexy, yet classy.

My current Herve Leger obsessions:

Although I feel Max Azria can do no wrong in the bodycon department, I do often feel there are those out there who do not do the designs justice. Since the fashion house's collections skyrocketed into every must have list, countless celebrities from Rachel Bilson to Kim Kardashian have worked the look. Some to perfection and others...well I won't say. In my opinion if your cleavage cannot be contained, you have more extensions than real hair, or your spray tan came out slightly orange, you should not be nearing these ultra provocative designs. I'm not going to name the celebs I didn't love in Leger, but I will show when I think it has been done right.

I have never really noticed Jessica Stroup for her style but she pulls of this neon dress with a playful sophistication. I love it paired with grey pumps, blazer, and large clutch.

I am sure all of you have seen this numerous times, but I am infatuated by the way Rachel Bilson effortlessly carried this look. She oozes girl next door sexiness, and the feather clutch and nude shoes bring her straight into fashionista territory.

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Style Tribe

Zara dress, Topshop belt, Topshop earrings, H&M tights, Gucci Sunglasses

I completely forgot I owned this dress, Zara circa summer 2008, until my friend wore hers to lunch last week (thanks amanda!!). The sheer fabric and tribal print seemed incredibly relevant to this season, so I decided to dig mine out of the sea of clothing that is my cramped wardrobe. Paired with a stack of bangles and a gold plated belt, I felt every bit the tribal warrior (kind of), but would have loved to have the House of Harlow headband as a finishing touch. Anyone know where I can get one??

P.S. If you are wondering what I am holding in my hand, it is my dog's leash. She is scampering behind me somewhere!

Doesn't she look gorgeous? Fit for an Ibizian bride. I'm loving the bohemian waves, flowing maxi dress, and of course all the House of Harlow jewelery.

To Ugg or not to Ugg

Zara tweed jacket, Topshop shorts, Zara heels, Gucci sunglasses, Dior Saddle Bag

The boy and I ventured to the English countryside for a relaxed barbecue at the weekend. Copious amounts of grass and idyllic scenery doesn't generally appeal to us, especially if it lacks the involvement of departing to warmer climates, but on this sunny day the lure of friends and rose on ice held enough attraction. Little did I know the outfit I wore around town would be entirely inappropriate when immersed in a sea of bootcut jeans tucked into Ugg boots. I have a love/hate relationship with Uggs. Back in my ultra-hippie days I loved the way they appeared alongside a whimsical floral dress, now they seem messy and unflattering, reserved solely for keeping warm around the house or ski holidays. Maybe a chilly English barbecue is the right time for them...maybe never.



The pics are from Brighton before heading towards the bbq. I always forget how much I enjoy Brighton's bohemian nature, especially in sunlight.

Close Relations

Topshop Dress, Topshop Blazer, Dior Saddle Bag, Accessorize 90 Den tights, Steve Madden boots

Went to lunch with the boy's family for his grandmother's 80th birthday. When it comes to large family events I think many hold a feeling of dread and imminent doom as the day arrives. Especially if family dynamics include divorce, feuds, and your Dad's new 25 year old girlfriend. Luckily the boy's family is small and intimate so eccentricities and differences are kept to a minimum. This differs vastly from my massive family gatherings when cousins, aunts, uncles, your childhood nanny, and of course all of our family's "dearest" friends attend. The event generally includes a 100 person sit down meal, live entertainment, and if we are lucky, a few fireworks. Yes, the boy was definitely overwhelmed at his first family dinner. But of course even with all their quirks and unconventionality , I would not trade my family for any other. How many people can say they enjoy clubbing with their Dad and his twin brother?

Absolutely obsessed with this Topshop dress! Not only does it fit to perfection and comfort, but a snip at only £30. I highly recommend!

Hippie Chic

Zara dress, Whistles belt, Steve Madden boots, scarf from market, bangles from market, H&M, and Topshop.

The sun has been avidly peeking through the clouds these past few days, enticing my inner hippie. Whenever unusual, sunny weather presents itself, I find it impossible to resist a sheer floral dress and slow slung belt. If only this could be worn without tights and with fringed sandals...then life would be perfect.

Our local pub, The Westbourne, turns into a mob that would rival a Chloe sample sale with the slightest sliver of sunshine. But the obvious atmosphere boost, the fact they welcome my puppy, and our keen sense of always locating an available table makes it the perfect afternoon. The dog even managed to make a few friends and flaunt her newly purchased, tan leather harness.

Borrowed

All Saints men's plaid shirt, Urban tank, Topshop shorts

My lust for these acid wash cut offs is increasing by the minute. Aside from the immense comfort factor and the constant versatility, they somehow manage to grab compliments by the second. What more could you want from a trusty wardrobe staple? I decided for a Saturday afternoon, I would pair with the boy's All Saints shirt and a camisole that is mostly used as sleep attire. Can't wait for a beach vacation when I can test them with my favorite Missoni bikini and a fabulous straw fedora.

Out to join the masses on the Portobello Road in vain hope of finding somewhere to eat that does not require waiting for hours and squeezing into a tiny corner table. I do love a buzzy atmosphere, but can find weekends here slightly wearing when the tourists congregate in all locations. Do you ever feel your neighborhood transforms into a foreign land when the weekend descends?

Have a great weekend!
xoxo

Discovery

Urban Outfitter dress/skirt, Versace leather jacket, Topshop chain link necklace, Vintage gold necklace, Gucci bag

A momentous discovery was made down a hidden, cobblestoned alley in Mayfair. In an endeavor to become a pinch more adventurous and sample new experiences, the boy and I booked dinner in uncharted territory, and ventured central to mingle with non-Notting Hill-ers. After much musing we settled upon Hush Brasserie in Lancanshire Court (Mayfair area). Mayfair is usually dismissed as far too pretentious and posh for my liking, and only suitable for its infamous nightclubs. But as we were on a "trying new things" kick I reluctantly agreed and followed. Little did I know I would be so pleasantly surprised by the cuteness and likability factor of Lancanshire Court. As I stumbled down the slightly slanted, uneven path towards the little area, I felt instantly at ease. Crowds of pretty young things sitting at wooden tables, chatting animatedly over wine and the odd cigarette. Not only was the atmosphere buzzing, but the food at Hush was delicious and refreshing. Still one too many uptight suits for my taste, but I think I was given enough reason for a second and third visit.

The dress I chose to wear on my little adventure was found in storage during the move. It is actually a peasant skirt (remember those days?) from years ago, pulled up and worn as a dress. Apart from the constant, sudden need to hike it up in order not to flash the entire restaurant, I love it!

Sheer Perfection

Zara blouse, Topshop shorts, Zara sandals, Accessorize tights, Georg Jensen silver necklace, Topman cross necklace

After a chilled out Saturday night, with a few romantic DVDs, cuddled with Chloe (my little yorkie/chihuahua), I was craving a wine filled, long Sunday lunch. I awoke at noon, untwisted my hair out of a bun, and thought it was the perfect day to debut my acid wash cut-0ff shorts. I managed to locate a sheer, ruffled blouse and decided it would be the ideal piece to dress up the look. The sheer factor of my outfit caused me to anticipate that summer should be gracing us with its presence in just a few short months.



Almost every Sunday is spent at our favorite Notting Hill restaurant, Electric, but this particular Sunday we decided to also visit our corner Italian wine bar, Negozio Classico. This cozy venue was often missed as we previously lived in the other direction, but now that it is in our direct path home it may have to be a weekly stop. Even if it is to just to peruse the floor to ceiling shelves full of wine and Italian treats.

Black on Black

All Saints dress, Topshop beanie, New Look patent ankle boots

The winter chill has once again descended upon London, but I did not let the rain attack derail my wishes to capture outdoor images. I have to say this All Saints dress is filed with my most coveted bar/drinks/party attire. The super comfy knitted material, perfect bodycon fit, with the added bonus of a paneled open back makes for a sexy, yet easy option. My love for the style has even managed to amplify since spotting a tie-dye version in stores. I think I will have to invest in that and live in it all Spring/Summer.

My Topshop beanie has been plastered atop my head almost 24/7 due to the serious nature of my overgrown roots. Luckily it made a perfect companion for my dress, encouraging it to look slightly grunge and very Alexander Wang-esque. I must make time, and find the patience to sit through a hair appointment a.s.a.p.

Unpacked and Unwound

Tee from Fairfax Market in West Hollywood, AA wetlook skirt, H&M tights, Topshop beanie, Gucci sunglasses



I have had a vigorous weekend full of unpacking, reorganizing, and parting with things that aren't ultimately necessary. We've managed to rekindle order into our belongings after much bickering about storage space and several runs to the Oxfam around the corner. Now all that is missing is cable, internet, and all my magazine subscriptions forwarded a.s.a.p.