Perspective

Never take anything for granted

Take a break

Escape the ordinary

Detox

Listen

Have a voice

Dream of the unimaginable

Treasure the historical

Embrace culture
Be grateful

Think about your place in this world

Mark your place in this world

Make it count.
Shape your own perspective. 

 

Let's Chat

As many of you may have noticed last year my content was minimal and often timely, but why?

It was time for a change.

I can no longer define Ooohlalaa it's fashion as solely a fashion blog because it isn't. Whilst I have always been vocal about my beliefs something changed early last year that meant I was no longer willing to relegate my posts to only fashion and beauty.

It goes without saying that the fashion industry plays a big part in my life and will always be central to my passion. It's what started Ooohlalaa it's fashion and it will certainly remain for it's entire existence, I mean just look at the title.

... but what has changed is our purpose. 

'Inspire, influence and succeed', applies to all areas of life, now more than ever. After a tough year last year the world needed a lot of love, belief and hope. The discussions we have in our everyday lives are powerful, thought provoking and revolutionary. I built this platform as a way to place my inspirations and ideas down on paper, but it just so happens that these haven't changed, instead have expanded and matured along with their audience.

Our priorities have changed and it is important that we change with them. 

I maybe a fashion blogger, a beauty blogger, a travel blogger and every topic in between but I am also a life blogger. Whilst my interests and passion remain primarily the same I find that this platform, as with many others, in need of progression. We can no longer be blinded, or ignorant as to what is going on around us, and we won't. A change in pace is needed.

Here you will find all things style, beauty, travel but you will also find cause, drive and hope. 

The world is changing, and so are we. 

Ooohlalaa it's fashion is a website that 

inspires, influences and succeeds with a touch of sassy city frolicking and the latest style fix,

it just now means something greater.

 

Power players, Rule breakers, Dreamers

Goals.

The dawning of a New Year inevitably triggers thoughts, feelings and curiosity surrounding accomplishment and achievement. Everyone discusses the turbulence the globe suffered last year (no explanation needed), but few mention the many things that 2017 brought to many. 

From the Women's March in January to the passing of gay marriage laws in Australia, weeks ago, we celebrated together and in sync with one another. Last year we saw the many marginalised step through the boundaries and into an arena where voices were heard and listened to. Voices that liberated many, encouraged others and brought cause to the very forefront of discussion. These voices had no set background, they were hidden within the many depths of everyday society.

This was just the start. 

It feels like the bar for 2018 is incredibly low however this statement could not be more wrong. We live in a world that changes by the second. Roles are reversed, dreams are shattered and many feel taken aback by rules that are imposed on them. This is not ok, but what is also not ok is this acceptance. 

To be powerful is to strive for success and drive an attitude into a mindset where one will not stop. There is no story or generic background to the definition of power. 

Rules are imposed to regulate, with the potential of restriction. There is a difference between living in harmony amongst one another and sacrificing fundamental rights.

Dreams are visions that keep your going, a reminder of your existence and a look towards the future. 

There is no world without them.

Every single individual has something to strive for whether this is upon themselves, collectively or in a greater picture. Goals do not need materialism to build their foundations, they need a mindset.

So to the power players, rule breakers and dreamers, this one is on you.

Each and everyone of you. 

This is a reminder to keep fighting for what you believe in, to embrace change, have a voice and stand your ground because whatever you encounter no one, not one single person, can take these from you.

Happy New Year my darlings.

Let's make it count.

International Women's Day

I've had my say on girl power but i'm not quite finished.

Happy International Women's Day my darlings!

Never forget your power.

All my love.

  

Ooohlalaa its fashion goes fourth

This past year has been a whirlwind, or what some would call a life lesson. I have successfully managed to embrace opportunity, expand my horizon and quite simply look at the bigger picture. Ambition is everything to me, but how you get there when life throws everything in your way is the real test.

Over the past year Ooohlalaa it's fashion has transgressed into something else. Something that provides you with more than the hottest trends fresh from the runway, but instead a platform with a meaning and a purpose. It is incredibly important to me to say what needs to be said so whether we get sassy in the Summer together, dominate new city street style or scream about a cause or campaign we feel so passionately about, we strive to make it known.

In a world where revolution is simmering at the core of our society, discussing purely trivial topics is not enough. However that doesn't mean we need to take everything too seriously, instead it encourages us to use our voice in all areas that we love. 

Over the next few months expect things to get outrageous, over the top and ultimately show stopping. Sassy city frolicking keeps us playing, experimenting and striving for the bigger picture. Powerful minds pave the way for powerful thoughts. So whether it's the height of your heels, the destination of your dreams or the fight you are about to undertake let it be known, we are here to inspire, influence and succeed. 

Another year passes and your support continuously means the world to me my darlings, now more than ever.

Happy fourth Ooohlalaa it's fashion, let's slay in this new dimension x

    

The time to scream

Photo credit:  aclu_nationwide Instagram

I could talk about fashion, beauty and travel all day for days but I won't. It is clear to see over the past few months through my posts, my social media and myself that my focus has somewhat realigned. Whilst I have always been passionate and interested in politics and current affairs my voice is no longer an expression of interest but one with a purpose.

Today we live in a world that has taken a step back in time. One where women are fighting for their reproductive rights, one where religion and nationality are deciding factors as to whether you can successfully gain entry into a country and one where a god damn wall is a central talking point.

This is not the world we anticipated but it's the world we got.

Over the past two weeks we have seen a Presidential Inauguration riddled with lies, or as some would call it 'alternative facts'. We have seen women march in solidarity around the world fighting for equality and a voice. But right now we see hundreds of US airports and streets that are filled with protestors welcoming refugees into their country, when it's been made quite clear that their leader do not welcome them.

Whilst many of us wanted Hillary to win the election more than anything and still consistently cling onto the hope she had given us we are instead left with something else.
A new democratically elected US President sits in the oval office. A man himself who has even questioned electoral fraud because he did not obtain the popular vote.

We may not have liked the results, or could I say despised them? However when the results of the US election were announced we knew he was here to stay. Whether you were a US citizen or a global one, despair brought us together. Tighter than ever and in unison a collection of voices prepared for the struggles that lay ahead.

These were not the struggles that anyone had anticipated.

The President is the President.
The world has accepted this.
This is democracy.

Using executive powers to promote and execute injustice, to bring pain and heartbreak to the lives of the American people are not acts of democracy. They are wrong. A key indication of this is when those who voted you in are against the actions you have taken.

In a time where the world should join America in celebration, a time where voices have been heard and actions were to take place, we are left with a mess. A dangerous mess. This is a world where calling people out on Twitter and playing with power override the thousands of voices that are screaming out in pain. Voices who want to be heard.

Now it is your turn.
Ignorance is far from bliss.
Passion and strive are needed to make the world go around.
Passion and strive are needed to make a difference.
But most of all passion and strive are needed to show solidarity and hope for those who need it.
It's time to let them know.

No one is saying commit yourself to participating in political discussion. However that moment you begin questioning why your Twitter feed is filled with Anti Trump tweets and #MuslimBan, or the newspapers and awards season acceptance speeches are all about peace, hope and a change in the world. Ask yourself, what would you do if that was you? The world is a dangerous place, play your part in making a difference.

America, the world is with you.

Donate to the ACLU here:https://www.aclu.org

 

*Photos included are not personal property.

Property of  aclu_nationwide Instagram.

The thing about September

September is all about new beginnings and change.
Whilst Summer is a carefree past time that allows us to release our flings and frolics that we have desired all year round, this season is one where we let everything go and start again. There is just something about September that holds importance like no other.

Virgos
This month I turn 23. The thing about 23 is, it holds little significance in the grand scheme of things. Whilst everyone is well aware of when they hit their decades, or life quarter, 23 still provides you with every opportunity to repeat your mistakes and continue learning from them. You still have seven years before you hit that thirty mark, lets make them all the more spontaneous.

Fashion week

I have been lusting after fashion week for so long. After a long start to the year I find myself craving new season, new trends, new cuts and new names. New York to London, Milan to Paris has never been desired more. This season we will see the up and coming rise of runway to retail. More and more designers and brands have decided to open up the borders to allow you to shop your favourite looks straight from the runway. We have come along way even since those snapchat premieres.

Fall

Autumn/Fall is my favourite season. Whether it's the leaves falling from the trees, the rainy days or all Hallows Eve, there is just something about this season that excites me more than anything. Burnt out colours, bold statements and trips to the pumpkin patch have never been more appealing.

The City
The city flourishes in the fall months. September is the month of motivation and magic. Power surrounds all of us, as does ambition, and pushes us to our very limits. Striving for success has never been more important and time and time again we kill it. It's time to show our love for the city once again.

But where does that leave us darlings?
It's back to the runway then onto the streets. Getting these next few months right significantly impacts the remainder of your year. Whilst of course the calendar months are January to December, I still work from September to August, my mood matches the season and it only makes sense to slay from the start and reward yourself at the bitter sweet end.

It's time to kill it my darlings.

We are about to talk fall looks, fall glam and power players.

Oh, that's after one last fling with Summer ... 

 

City blues

 We all know i'm a self proclaimed city girl but now we have hit the summer months i'm a little over it, it's time for a vacay. There is something I love about the fast pace of the city, the motivation it gives you and the desire and drive it gives you to succeed. Now by no means has that disappeared but my love of it is dwindling, at least in this location. Catch me on the streets of NY, Milan or Pariee and I would be in heaven but i'm in need of a break. 

The city, the place where I once loved and thrived, is becoming dark and dangerous, and we aren't talking in a tall, dark and handsome sort of way. The more you put into the less you get out of it but that is just simply not enough to provoke failure. After all I did say when life gives you lemons... 

The world has a funny way of working and quite simply it has tested me this year, throwing everything in my path but it's just not enough to break me. 

I'm just not ready to give up my city girl persona, but it's time to fall in love with the island for a while.

Watch this space darlings. Things are about to get a little heated. 

Top: River Island

Skirt: Zara

Shoes: Carvela

'Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall'- Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby 

Ways to slay

Guess whose back my darlings?

Some may say it's been a while but I can only promise you I have been planning a whole lot of sass and a whole lot of love ... because we are all for a little excitement right? Everything appears to be all work and no play these days but thats not always the case, as long as you make it worth your while.

It's time to slay.

We gon' slay, gon' slay, we slay, I slay- Beyonce

1| Experiment and excel 

A little spontanuity goes a long way so always make a conscious effort to say yes to things that scare you. Who would have thought jumping on that aeroplane solo would allow you to dominate a new surrounding? Or maybe it's time to drop everything and refresh? 

This could make you instead of break you, never let fear get in your way.

2| Dare and desire

With little opportunity to back out, the act of daring yourself can be defining. If I say i'm going to do something I will do it, whether that is in an instant or in a while. Why would you dare yourself in the first place if you didn't desire the potential outcome?

3| Thrill and thrive 

Do not be boring.

This mantra is applicable in all areas of life whether thats style, work or relations. 

If you find a certain setting thrilling it's time to show everyone what you are made of. 

Turn satisfaction into pleasure and thrive.

4| Speak and suceed 

You have a voice so use it. Many have proven that it only takes one person to have a significant impact in the world. Have you ever thought that person could be you? Success is measured in many ways and is different to many people. Its your turn to influence, inspire and motivate others.

5| Figure and flourish 

Life is tough ... build a bridge. When life gets you down find a solution before it gets the better of you. The ability to pull through your darkest time prepares you for anything that is to come. Instead of picking yourself up refrain from allowing it to overcome you at all. 

6| Get up and get a grip

Stop complaining and get it together, no explanation needed. Don't be a time waster, the world is YOUR oyster.

 7| Charm and challenge

A little charm goes a long way, we all know that. However use this to your advantage. The ability to charm is nothing unless you can provide a challenge. Never show weakness.

No one can make you feel inferior with your consent- Eleanor Roosevelt.

8| Bewitch and bypass 

Haters gonna hate hate hate hate hate hate?

We all know how to say au revoir, don't let anyone dim your light.

9| Mesmerise and minimise

Take your head out the clouds darling. Whilst we all dream of frolicking on the beach of a deserted island that will come in time. If you really want something nothing will get in your way so minimise that daydream and go get it. 

10| Sass and slay

Sassiness makes the world go round. It's a way of saying you never take life too seriously. Sure these are a few life guidelines but no one said you can't have a little fun whilst fulfilling your goals.

You've got this.

A Happy Place

Have you ever asked yourself where is your happy place?

We all have one.

Whether life is a little crazy, things are getting you down or you just need to escape we all have that one place that gives us everything that we need- peace, serenity, love and happiness.

Mine lies somewhere between the city and the island.

When the city succeeds it thrives but sometimes the island provides you with all that you need.

You don't need to share your happy place with anyone but yourself however it is important that you take a little time out of your day to discover where you are at your very best. 

So when challenges arise, remember you've always got that one place.

Make this year your best darlings.

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

A very special Happy New Year to you my darlings! 

I want to thank you for all your support over the past year and the love and admiration you have provided me with.

Lets make 2016 our best year.

Lets make it powerful.

Lets make it productive.

Lets inspire.

Lets influence.

Lets make a change.

We've got this.

Love and kisses.

  

September is ...

 

Kate Spade 2015/16 Agenda, SHOP

September is ...

The month of fashion week as we take New York, London, Milan and Pariee.

Think french frolicking, city showstopping and a touch of British sass.

AW15

Autumnal trends, suedes, cords and of course faux fur.

The month of the Virgos (hello darlings)

We're taking 22.

A fashion lovers dream

Think look books, red lips and the September issue.

Career minds

Fresh beginnings, and new starts.

Power

Success, motivation and determination.

...Your time to flourish. 

Ambition

                

        

This week marked one of the most important achievements of my life so far. On Tuesday I received a Bachelor of Arts, upper second class honours degree in Politics and Sociology, from Newcastle University, standing in the very same spot Martin Luther King received his Honorary Doctorate of Civil Law in 1967.

During my three years of student life I have worked extensively to prove people wrong. Whilst Ooohlalaa it's fashion was founded in the latter half of my first year I found many doubting my intentions and capabilities both at the thought of a fashion blog and the fact that I was studying the difficult subject of Politics. Whilst my University career has of course had many ups and downs, I never quit.

Why?

I only believe in success, even if obstacles obscure its reach. 

I got there whilst experiencing the many occurring problems of adult life and juggling working on three different levels. Every second of every day was spent dipped in some aspect of hectic city life and the chance to breathe was limited at all times. 

Was it worth it?

Absolutely.

Ooohlalaa it's fashion is about inspiring, influencing and contributing to change.

If you can take these objectives and apply them to all aspects of your life you will find positivity and peace with yourself. 

Does success mean successful?

Yes, but does successful ever find itself in connotation with the word easy?

No.

Does successful mean the end?

No.

What is the main contributor to success?

Ambition.

We're not done here.

   

International Women's Day 2015

 

Empowering women; empowering humanity.

International Women's Day 2015 has a theme close to our hearts as our strive for success in the battle for gender equality continues into another year.

Over the past year the HeForShe campaign, lead by Emma Watson and UN women, has extended recognition and exemplified cause. Men around the world are passionate as they join in the attempt to make women their equal.


Women are still underpaid.

CEO and leading positions in the workforce remain a minority for women 

... despite doing better in their degrees.

The time is for change.

All women are powerful.

Men are not the enemy, they are the support.

You are powerful and together we will win.

Emma Watson held a live Facebook conversation regarding HeForShe this afternoon.
If you missed it, catch up HERE.

For more information visit:
www.internationalwomensday.com 
http://www.heforshe.org/

Photo credit:    He for She