Flavour of the month

Autumn is in full swing, the nights are about to get darker

 and things are getting a little bewitched. 

Trends
AW19 is here and we are waiting for the high street to play catch up. Expect power shoulders, colour block and the return of the cape (a 2015 trend I just couldn't get away from). From the Bottega bag and slides covering head to toe of any FROWer to the blend of Victoria B shades hot in the eyes of any make up lovers palette, AW19 reminds of what fall really is about. A season of classics in a new dimension.

Christmas releases
Will we be airbrushing with Charlotte Tilbury? Slick with an anticipated uncovered Huda? Or drenched in the dreamiest scent? I always begin my Christmas shopping in September but this year I am underwhelmed. Some of the hottest festive launches are around the corner this October, don't miss out.

Technology
Ok, so it's a new year and new Apple season. Everyone has so much to say when it comes to a new Apple release but for me this year a state of the art camera and a midnight green just about cuts it. I am a sucker for new shades and intricate detail. The pro provides just that.

Affairs in order
Will they? Won't they? Three years after a Brexit vote and we are still in a struggle to define the history of this country, October 31st is the next milestone in our development. What will happen? Our guess is as good as anyones.
     Unless you have slept through the past few months Greta Thunberg would have entered your thought process. At 16 this environmental activist has once again highlighted the prominence that climate change has in our world today. Politics may not be your thing, but the globe you live on certainly is. Don't play blind to the monumental change that you could be a part of.

For your viewing
This time every year Gossip Girl returns for me. The seasons are in sync and with great outfits, scandals and S&B in their prime, what more could you ask for?
    In complete contrast the other view playing on my mind is Star Wars. The finale of the latest trilogy enters the big screen this December and tickets are due a release. Lets call this a family tradition

Travel
The Greek islands forever appear on our Instagram feeds over the course of the Summer months. An array of gorgeous white buildings and the deepest of blue seas. In our amazement no one expected to find them at the top of our wander list this Autumn. The weather delights, the crowds have fleed and island hopping continuously appeals to the many. Have you considered switching your usual city break for Mykonos and Santorni in the Autumn air?

The next three months see trends arise as the day progress. 

Watch this space my darlings, the flavour of month is about to get that little more juicy.

 

Lesson 2: Breathe baby breathe | February

So you are finally getting over your January blues and already seeking those Summer months. February was always one of my favourite months, now it is one of the hardest. With awards season in full swing and in the midst of fashion week, February is not only about planning those career goals but also making peace with your mindset.

This past February was a little unexpected. 

I know Antartica was on top of my bucket list but I didn't expect to live and breathe it so soon.

Whilst the snow caused chaos and disruption in England, it also became a welcome distraction.

February is the month to take time out and breathe. The time to find your headspace. 

Whilst my February was filled with work work and more work, I also gave myself time to reflect and kept my head in the clouds. Reality never has to be as it appears. 

Surround yourself with people who understand this mantra. 

... because remember my darlings, you don't always have to keep your shit together. 

   Lesson 2: Breathe baby breathe

  

ESCAPE X MEXICO

Mexico.

A land of amazing culture, history, tradition ... and a tequila or two.

If you desire a vacay that combines luxury, adventure and a party its time to jetset. Unlike many other destinations this entire country is filled with tourist hotspots that are home to some of the most incredible landscapes. You never have to stay in one place, it's a place that thrives on hustle. From sipping the best margaritas in the world (a life changer), to spending your night dancing the streets with local people Mexico makes a case for escape. Theres a reason so many people elope here. 

I'd always heard so many people mention Mexico and with so much fascination it was time I saw for myself.  You find yourself longing for venture beyond your own belief. 

With not a care in the world the possibilities are endless on this bucket list essential.  

Location

One of the hardest decisions you will have to make when going to Mexico is your location of choice. I took a twelve hour flight to the Pacific Coast and the travel was worth the while. With that being said the famous Caribbean Coast, home to Cancun,  a city I know you have heard of, is equally as tempting. Life couldn't be more different but with a carefree attitude and the aim to have a little fun you will be at ease from the second you step off the plane. Cabo and Tulum are favourite, 'it' places every Summer season. With so much choice how do you make one of the best decisions of a lifetime? 

You try both ... 

Where to stay?

Pacific Coast

RIU VALLARTA BOOK

4*+, Nuevo Vallarta

'golden sand beach of Playa de Flamingos, in a laid-back part of Nuevo Vallarta.'

GRAND SIRENIS MATALI HILLS RESORT AND SPA BOOK

5*, Puerto Vallarta 

'This hillside hotel delivers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.'

Caribbean Coast

EL DORADO MAROMA  BOOK

5*, Riviera Maya

'perfect blend of laid-back and luxury'

MOON PALACE BOOK

5*, Cancun 

'The hotel is tucked among 123 acres of gardens, and right on a white-sand beach.'

Where to explore? 

1/7 NEW WONDERS Take this one in a lifetime opportunity to explore the ancient Chichén Itzá and immerse yourself in one of the many pieces of history that Mexico has to offer. - Caribbean Coast

STREET PARTY Wherever you go every night is a party. When I say its time to dance with the locals you will soon realise that this is a natural instinct as you wander through some of the sassiest, music you ever did hear.

TEQUILA TOUR For a country that is renown for it's Tequila it's only right the you escape to the unknown and do it properly, do you dare?

HIDDEN MEXICO Take an organised Jeep tour into the hidden jungles of Puerto Vallarta. Besides encompassing everything that Mexico has to offer this subtropical jungle not only has the most beautiful nature and creatures, as expected, but is the location of many Mexican villages- many of which you are invited to come and explore for yourself. - Puerto Vallarta

WATER SPORTS With an endless ocean ahead of you water sports whilst in Mexico is a must. You have no excuse. It's time to paraglide your way over dream hotspots and scuba down to the depths of the many divine shades of ocean.

SUNSET DINNER Whilst this may sound obvious this an experience like no other. The weather is unpredictable and you must take each day as it comes as it can change in an instance, especially during the Summer months ... but this is where it gets fun. If you get a chance to experience one of the insane tropical storms that often pass you'll soon begin to realise nothing changes, you'll love this place when it's torrential weather as much as you do when it heats up.

You have to see it to believe it.

When booking a trip to Mexico an all inclusive package is recommended. With such packages you are housed in a luxury resort, by a beautiful beach and still have every opportunity to explore everything you desire ... and there is nothing stopping you spending a few days away from the hotel. Unlike many city breaks Mexico is a world away but trying to plan this strategically will take some serious organisation and therefore a package vacation is a must. However you must realise this does not in anyway draw your attention from the partying and the desire to wander, if anything it encourages it. Whilst most hotels will give you the chance to explore world cuisine take a night to go and immerse yourself in the city and experience Mexico in it's truest form. 

A Mexico vacay is one that captures everything and quite simply put is one of my favourite places in the entire world. When people speak in admiration, it's the truth. 

This maybe a costly experience but this is an escape you'll never want to arrive back from. 

 

ESCAPE X BARCELONA

Barcelona was never a city at the top of my wanderlust but instead a famously iconic one I had to tick off my list. I just couldn't understand the fascination ... until I arrived. If I had only known before how wonderful it was I know my visit there would have happened a long time ago as it firmly sits near the top of my list.

Barcelona is simply magical. Around every street your mind is blown by the incredible architecture, landscape and vivid bursts of colour. Like Paris, you arrive with a vision and your expectations are exceeded dramatically. Being surrounded by such beauty makes you feel nothing less than amazing. This city is one that combines tourism, adventure, culture and a Summer vacation all into one. 

Your return is inevitable. 

Location

This European city is renown as one of the worlds finest. In mainland Spain it remains one of the easiest European destinations to get to, and also one of the cheapest. The thing about Barcelona is that you can experience it in anyway you want. Perhaps you want to be in the heart of the city sampling boutique hotels in the Gothic quarter, or maybe chilling by the beach or better yet situated in Barcelona's financial district dividing your time between history and high tech. The possibilities are endless.

Where to stay?

HESPERIA TOWEL HOTEL

5*,  Hospitalet de Llobregat BOOK, +34 93 4135000

'it’s a real city landmark, complete with a fabulous glass-roof cupola'

W HOTEL

4.4*, Place de la Rosa dels Vents, +34 93 295 28 00 BOOK

'boasting panoramic views over the Mediterranean and city of Barcelona' 

H10 MONTCADA BOUTIQUE

3*, Gothic Neighbourhood BOOK

' a neoclassical building on Via Laietana which has been completely renovated with decor inspired by the voyages of yesteryear'

OHLA BARCELONA

via Laietana, info@ohlaboutiquehotels.com, BOOK

'the avant-garde interior design of the current building contrasts with a neoclassic façade classified as historical heritage'

Where to explore?

PARC GUELL, entice yourself with the exquisite works of Antoni Guadi. Learn his history and experience his passion for creation as you step into a dream world where mosaics take over and pathways lead only to the most divine discoveries.

PORT AVENTURA, if you are feeling a little daring Barcelona is a main route to one of Europe's most famous theme parks and this is one thrill you really will love.

LA SAGRADA FAMILIA, this Basilica is the landmark that identifies Barcelona on the map, with it's Gothic design representing the foundations of what makes this city so phenomenal and furthermore iconic. If there is one thing I would recommend it's taking a trip to admire this beautiful architecture. It is unlikely you will see something quite as breathtaking in it's design.

BARCELONA CATHEDERAL, experience Barcelona in all it's glory, mingle with the local people and shop in some of the most chic boutiques whilst testing some of its favourite cuisine. 

MAGIC FOUNTAIN OF MONTJUÏC, picture perfect this is the location of all those dreamy Instagram snaps that created your desire to visit Barcelona in the first instance. Day or night magic really is the most perfect way to describe it.

OLYMPIC STADIUM, still in pristine condition explore the location of the 1992 Olympics and some of the worlds greatest sporting events.

CAMP NOU, whether you are a football lover or not ... when in Barcelona the experience is more than worthwhile.

Clubs and Restaurants 

I: Mixed cuisine, lounge and club @CDLCBARCELONA http://www.cdlcbarcelona.com

FB: Eclipse club, W Hotel @ECLIPSEBARCELONA http://www.eclipse-barcelona.com

FB: Salt beach club, W Hotel @WBARCELONA http://www.saltbeachclub.com

FB: @BARMARSELLABARCELONA

FB: Catalan cuisine @PETITECOMITEBARCELONA https://petitcomite.cat

FB: @BESTIALBEACHCLUBCN http://grupotragaluz.com/restaurante/bestial/

Barcelona is a city of the unexpected. Never had I imagined the endless opportunities and discovery this beautiful city had to offer. A beach holiday in itself is always enough, now pair that with the greatest city break you have ever seen and you've escaped into destination dreams.

 

ESCAPE X Ooohlalaa its fashion

I'm back darlings.

Things are getting a little hectic in the city meaning a vacay is just around the corner.

It's time to release your inner wanderlust as we explore some of the best destinations the globe has to offer this Summer. 

So whether you are frolicking in Santorini, partying in Ibiza or dancing the streets of Barcelona, heres your go to guide to summer dreams. 

We just don't believe in understated, the Summer is what we live for.

Join me over the next week as we explore some of my favourite vacay spots, letting you in on what to do, where to stay and how to keep things a little adventurous.

The best thing of all? These are the hottest vacation spots this season, forget Instagram envy- darling it's your turn to ESCAPE. 

  

WEDDING FEVER | SHOP THE LOOK

Darlings, wedding season is here and it's already to die for.

Over the past decade weddings have turned from your traditional white wedding into something a little more meaningful and inevitably experimental.

So whether you are walking down an aisle covered in florals, eloping to Vegas or getting married at your local city hall the opportunities are endless and ultimately chic.

Perhaps you are shopping the new Topshop bridal collection? Or maybe inspired by Olivia Palermo's lace shorts and blue Manolo's? Or maybe you spend your days browsing Pinterest for every inch of inspiration? Weddings are all about you, so it's vital you make it everything that you dream of whether that's expressing your wanderlust desires or making history in a place you call home. 

I seek inspiration in every surrounding and find myself torn with my favourites as the next is always so different from the last. 

The details are down to you and your wedding day is your chance to place your mark on this world and inject your personality into a setting that you fabricate based on everything that you love in your life.

I recently attended a dream Spring wedding. Think florals, pastels and all your Pinterest desires merged into one. Not only did the Bride & Groom, Rebecca and James look flawless but the time and effort placed into making their wedding their very own was unprecedented. The attention to detail was like no other. From getting married in an ancient church to celebrating in a 17th Century manor house, these settings did not fall short of character and spoke for themselves. A navy and pastel green colour combination, paired with a gorgeous array of the finest spring florals provoked nothing but effortless Spring vibes. This was apparent in every inch of detail, from the table settings to the personalised plaques found throughout each destination, epitomising perfection.

I am forever talking about experimentation, and overstepping the boundaries so when it comes to your wedding day why wouldn't you do just that?

It's time to inspire, influence and succeed, a mantra we live by. 

So the next time you dream of running away to Santorini, running to the registry the next day or inviting those hundreds of guests to your castle,

make sure you do it. 

Make your thoughts a reality.

Do we have Spring fever, wedding fever ... or both?

SHOP THE LOOK//

Top: Coast SHOP similar

Skirt: Coast SHOP similar

Shoes: Office SHOP (satin finish)

Handbag: Next SHOP 

 

Back to the city

  

                             It wasn't all too long ago that I found myself immersed in city blues.

I longed for a break away from the dangerous reality that the city brings to you all year round and lusted after the island.

To say I have thoroughly enjoyed my fling with Summer this year is an understatement. I visited the other side of the globe, surrounded myself with cultures unlike my own, wanderlusted after dream destinations and met some incredible people ...

but now i'm back.

Remember the thing about September? Well it's time to grind, seek your inspiration and slay. 

When the going gets tough, suck it up.

When life gets you down, shimmy your way back up.

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.

The only shade you should be concerned about is the colour of your next Winter coat.

The city feels exciting and new once more. Whether your eyes are fixated on the runway, you're shopping for your new AW16 wardrobe, you take on a huge task in the workplace or meet a new array of people. It's time to kill it darlings, don't let anyone mess with your vibes. 

After all we are all about the sassy city frolicking. 

 

 

Falling

 

  

Today's marks the Autumnal equinox of 2016.

As the Burberry trench coats make a return, the leaves fall on the ground and our favourite shades reappear the turn of the season marks the the turn of a brand new transition once again. 

Join me as we I explore the wonderful city of Barcelona, my last fling with Summer and the first taste of fall.

If you go down to the woods

 

It's not very often I get a chance of a 'break', i'm always on the go.
This weekend was a little different. After spending yesterday eating ice cream by the riverside, soaking up that fleeting British Summer, today I went that one step further.

My sister turned17 today and it's not very often we get to spend time together, so we decided to go for a little woodland frolicking. We visited Alnwick Castle, a place of history, iconically British and unforgettably a location where Harry Potter was filmed.

There was something so peaceful and most of all relaxing about visiting this gorgeous landscape. Instead of getting caught up in the hustle of the city I actually spent my Sunday doing exactly as I pleased, of course that included spending lunchtime sipping cocktails.

I like to constantly work.

I keep myself motivated at all costs, but sometimes it becomes a little unhealthy.

It's always okay to take that breath of fresh air you need. 

Never feel guilty, as long as you choose to spend it wisely.