teawithonesugarplease

February something to look forward too

2012-02-01T20:18:00.000Z

The chill in the air just wants to make me stay under the duvet and not get out of bed. But needs must and what finer motivation there is for me is a chance to go sample sale shopping! I shop to make me happy, I shop when I am in love, I shop when I am bored, I shop therefore I am....yes the economy is in chaos, Eurozone, double dip recession/depression. I don't care I will be well dress and look gorgeous. I'll drop in causally Mr. Fashion's favorite saying is 'I'm gorgeous', what a darling (when he's not being a demon to The Foley Artist and Curly Haired Beauty).

What: B Store
Why: Up to 80 per cent off brands including Peter Jensen, Sophie Hulme and Bless.
When: To 5 Feb. Mon.-Sat., 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.
Where: Kingly Ct., 1st flr., units 1.9 & 1.10, W1B 5PW.

What: The Secret Sample Sale
Why: Up to 90 per cent off clothing and accessories by Armani, See by Chloé and Joseph.
When: Thurs.-5 Feb. Thurs., 1-8 p.m.; Fri., 1-7 p.m.; Sat., noon-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m.
Where: T2, The Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Ln., E1 6QL (020 7247 3959).

What: Me & Em
Why: Loungewear, cashmere, dresses, jeans and tops from £20.
When: 8-11 Feb. Wed., Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: 21 Connaught St., W2 2AY (08456 800975).

What: Hush
Why: Cosy dresses, jumpers, loungewear and nightwear from £5.
When: 9-11 Feb. Thurs. & Fri., 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: 8-10 Ingate Pl., SW8 3NS (08448 004108). Cash only.

What: Coco de Mer
Why: Up to 70 per cent off lingerie and accessories by Bordelle, Made by Niki, Outlandish Creations and more.
When: 23 & 24 Feb. Thurs. & Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: 23 Monmouth St., WC2H 9DD (020 7836 8882).

What: The London Designer Sale
Why: Up to 80 per cent off designers including Barbour, Belstaff and Gucci.
When: 24 Feb. Fri., 1-9 p.m.
Where: The Music Room, 26 S. Molton Ln., W1K 5AB.

The last sale is the one I'm most looking forward too. Like I need another Barbour coat/jacket. But throw in a bit of Belstaff and I will happily hunt down the 'Sherlock' coat in the vain attempt that maybe, just D might look quite nifty in it (minus killer cheekbones)

Smile

2012-01-31T22:52:00.000Z

Only 1 more month of Winter to go...Snow has started to fall around these parts, Even flurries of sleet made it to W1 today Bbbbbbbbbbbrrrrrrrrrr

The last dreg on-line Sale trawl that has kept me up most nights have been futile. Searching for that wardrobe must-have to make me taller, slimmer, younger, whatever nirvana - Meh

So I have whacked on the heating, layered up all my knitwear (causing major bobbles alert) and going to sit it out for another month before Spring arrives. I cannot wait.

Happy Haul

2012-01-19T00:06:00.000Z

Thanks to a twitter alert from Tor at Fabfrocks today, Boots were having in-store 75% off on beauty gift sets.

So I bagged myself the following items from their Oxford Street store..

Philosophy Fun Frosty 3-in-1 Bubble Bath, Shower gel and Shampoo set for £11 mmm I'm going to smell delish!

Hello Kitty/Liberty cosmetic bag, lip gloss, mascara and eye shadow set £8 (ahem I may have accidentally bought quite a few of these)

And these, the Bobbypins Beauty vanity sets for £2 - perfect standby birthday presents for Curly Haired Beauty school friends

The very helpful shop assistant at the check-out even let me wade back to the already large scrum to go get a few more sets when I realised just how discounted these beauty gift sets were! Cheers Tor and Jennifer :-)

PS knock me down with a feather - I now have a job, its the same job as before, doing the exact same thing! So they did still want me after all...can't figure it out but after a hellish Xmas and NYE having it hang over me like a noose. I can carry on as before and carry on shopping!

Happy New Hair

2012-01-11T17:16:00.000Z

It's 2012 how I have been counting down to this year for the last 3 years....I was pregnant with the twins and had wished the time away to reach this date - Curly Haired Beauty would be firmly established at school (loving it) and the twins will be starting pre-school (tomorrow). I would be over that small child 'bump' and gain a bit more me time and hopefully its a home run to this parenting lark.

But life has a way of biting you on the bum! I am still in a 'have a job, got no job' and facing redundancy (boo hiss). For the last 4 years I have had the most amazing flexible working hours and had truly experienced that work/life balance that most working women would kill for. This job has given me the chance to earn my own money to feed my Net-a-Porter habit, spend real quality time with toddler, its even given me the opportunity to go away for 9 months to have twins and return to work with even better hours and benefits. But due to a change in senior management I am no longer required *weeps*.

I know I am going to find it really hard to find something comparable working for a dynamic buzzy media company, doing a 5 hour day, lunch breaks/shopping in W1, I was able to do the school morning run and be home in time for the golden hours; 5pm-7pm feed, bath and bed the kiddies.

And to top it all I had to cope with a major hair diaster - my crowning glory which I had been painstakingly growing long, so I could have lovely swishy hair for my 40th.

I had tweeted about getting my hair dip dyed blue - I'm so Jessie J and down with the kids (not). I went to my regular salon (a top quality one) and the colourist said he could bleach the last 7 inches and then colour it peacock blue. Ladies and gentlemen it was a disaster - the effect was great but he had used Krazy Colour and when I left the salon, went back to the office, left the office ...it RAINED. I got dye down my neck, ears, scarf, jacket. I looked like a smurf. I was so upset and ANGRY. I called the salon the next day and the rather unhelpful receptionist recommended I use washing up liquid to get rid of my blue skin. Everytime I touched my hair, my hand would be covered in blue, it was all around my nails and cuticles and took forever to scrub off. No way was I told this would happen, I have never seen Emo's with har colour run in the rain. If I had been told properly about the high colour transfer onto everything I would have declined the idea and asked for another suggestion. After all the colourist is the colour expert.

This is my hair after I had washed it 4 times with detox shampoo to get the excess colour out. Note the greenish tinge.

Exhibit A

When the colourist responsible failed to return my call, I rang the salon again and luckily I got the Manager M, he got his ear bashed but was very sweet and said he would do what he could to rectify the problem. Later that week he used a solution containing ammonia to scrub out the blue but it left my hair a very pale dirty green. He then put a violet toner on top which left my hair looking like it did before I had the colour treatment. I had paid £112 and the results was now I had dry ends.....

People, I had to deal with dry ends during party season and facing redundancy; I was not a happy bunny at the end of 2011. M said my hair had been through a lot so let it settle and he would take some swatches of my to test and see what he could do to give me the high colour impact I had so wanted. So I waited, waited and waited. Finally yesterday I headed back to the salon and was told that the already coloured hair was not possible to treat, M's experiments produced a dirty dishwasher colour and the recommendation was to apply the violet toner again to keep the ends dark (the colour was already fading and was going orange/gingerish - not a good look). He would try another dye to lift the cuticles and give me a high impact shiny bright colour in one step. No bleaching and then applying a colour and assured me no colour would run in the rain! So deep breath I took the plunge and went for Fuchsia red.

I'm happy, so very happy, the colour isn't where I had wanted it but he could only treat the virgin hair and not the coloured hair. It makes me 'dare I say it' more youthful looking. That pop of bright red when I swish my hair it gorgeous. Curly Haired Beauty is inspired and wants pink in her hair but understands she has to be a grown up before she can go to mummy's salon.

Wishing you all a very happy and prosperous 2012 - DM me if you know of any jobs going!

love twosp xxx

Sparkle in Sequins

2011-12-30T22:10:00.000Z

New Years Eve just around the corner and if you haven't already thought about what to wear when the bells chime midnight, here are some ideas....go for Gold and make it covered in Sequins darlings!

Sequin Wrap Dress by Rare at Top Shop now on sale for £40

Sequin Maxi Dress by River Island at ASOS £57

Sequin round neck tunic dress By Malene Birger at My Teresa £445 or you can rent it from £59 from Girl Meets Dress

I'm braving the Kings Road tomorrow with Curly Haired Beauty, not for sale shopping mind you but an educational excursion to the Mary Quant store. Her school is celebrating its 80 year anniversary and each child is dressing up in a nominated decade and making a donation to the school. Her decade is the 60's; so tonight I gave her a crash course in 60's Fashion history (attributed to inventing the mini skirt and coloured/patterned tights) and she was most receptive looking at the 'Stylish Ladies' and the youthquake fashion that Mary Quant is so famous for (thank you Google Image ). I know the brand name is no longer run under Mary and is owned by a Japanese company but we're going to try and buy a Daisy logo necklace or hairslides for that 'authentic' look and a chance for me to maybe sneak in a little make-up shopping.....

Images from here here

I used to love the tiny colour store near Brompton Cross. I have very fond memories purchasing bright nail varnish in amazing rainbow colours contained in highly tactile round bottles. This was before the day's of Hard Candy (remember them - Tippex like pastels?), Urban Decay, Nails Inc.

Happy New Year dear readers and I wish you all good health, wealth and happiness for 2012.
twosp xxxx

Burp - Excuse me

2011-12-28T23:01:00.000Z

What can I say I have eaten too much and drunk too much this festive season. Its all been very nice and indulgent and I have learnt to use up all the leftover meats creatively and cracked the secret 'Northern' meat and potato pie recipe; which has made D very happy.

Oop North where he comes from, they have pie shops like how we have sandwich shops down here in London....butter pie (?), meat pie, meat and potato pie!

Credit of photo from here

I didn't get a chance to photograph my own efforts they got inhaled too quickly

I have been reduced to wearing my Juicy Couture tracksuit to accomodate my expanded waistline. I knew that outfit would come in handy for slob days. Navy stretchy velour rules! Got no one to impress now the big day has been and gone...and New Years Eve is going to be a quiet affair here. So I have no daft too tight dresses to wiggle into or scary Spanx pant loo horrors.

Although I do fancy the idea of a silky jumpsuit for a touch of Luxe casualness - boderline Pajama territory or maybe a knitted onesie?

Pink washed silk jumpsuit by Alice by Temperley - dress this up with a black cropped tux style jacket perfect outfit to wear for cocktails

Metallic knitted jumpsuit by M Missoni - layer over a chunky knitted cardigan for winter warmth

All from The Outnet - style tip, go up one size to avoid the dreaded camel hoof.

Seasons Greetings

2011-12-22T23:02:00.000Z

Wishing all my readers a very Merry Christmas, a big thank you for stopping by and for the lovely comments.

Credit for photo from here

Well you didn't think my home actually looked like this, did you?

I know what I'm getting for Christmas

2011-12-20T12:53:00.001Z

I am beyond excited...I'm getting this beautiful cocktail ring from D for Christmas

It's by Alexander McQueen covered in amber coloured swarovski crystals with bee detail....it has a lovely heavy weight when worn and is so tactile. D made a special trip to Selfridges to buy it on the last shopping weekend before Christmas - give the man a medal for battling through the hoards of crowds.

I am SOOO HAAPPPY :-)

Office Party

2011-12-19T19:57:00.000Z

The other week I happily snapped up a beautiful navy silk Lila Dress in the Rose Noir print by Erdem at their sample sale. It was such a steal at £150, the fit amazing, giving me a really nipped in waist and I thought it would be ideal to wear to the office Christmas party. But it would still get lots of wear for day occasions, drinks, dinners, a very versatile dress and so pretty.

Erdem dress (see more erdem dresses)

Credit of photo from here

I had wanted to wear pointy stiletto heels but the approaching weather on the day started to turn bad and we experienced snow flurries in W1 which put paid to that idea. So I made a quick dash to TKMaxx and got my self some sweet glittery ballet pumps for £14.99. I may as well channel the 50's vibe and be Betty from Mad Men (OK I'm not a blonde but you know what I mean). I could have shopped from my wardrobe but I wanted a new head to toe outfit. This was going to be the last occasion I would see everyone (impeding redundancy - boo-hiss)

I made a sneaky trip to Hershesons Blow Dry Bar in the basement of Top Shop Oxford Circus; as I knew I wouldn't get a chance to wash and style my own hair prior to the party. I have to say it was the best £24 I ever spent getting my hair done. George the stylist was super quick and gave me a cross between Big and Bouncy, with the Marcel wave (click on the link above to see the look book). He used tongs to give me tight curls to the ends of my hair but as my hair is super straight it softened up into a looser wave when teased out. A lot of hairspray spritzing and I was done and back at my desk!

[I still have to post about my 2 weeks hair nightmare when my blue dip dye job went really WRONG. But its getting resolved in a few weeks or so.....]

So I head home and do the usual mummy thing of feeding, bathing and getting the 3 kids into bed. In-between putting on my make-up and spanx pants. Ladies whatever you do - don't do what I did and eat the kids leftovers before trying to get into a tight dress. Spagetti, meatballs, roast potatoes are not your friend and my waistline expanded an extra few inches. Which caused a sweaty panicky 'trying to get the zip up my dress' maneouver. I mean I only bought the sodding dress a week ago and the size 8 fitted like a glove...now I couldn't breath but us women have to suffer to look good.

Bus, Train and I my feet are freezing in the glittery ballet pumps. But at least I had my big fur coat which did the trick keeping the bitter cold wind off me. I decided keeping warm was more important if snow was going to settle overnight; so chanced my luck wearing my vintage fur coat and deal with the consequences of any animal right campaigners. Luckily for me they didn't seem to be out on Friday night . As I'm waiting for my train back into Central London - my sister rings to tell me the latest - she had a baby last weekend (Baby B, kid number 3) and was back in hospital as Baby B had lost 10% of her birth weight and hadn't poo'ed for 5 days - a big deal for a newborn. She was tired and fed up and naturally worried. I gave some advice after my experience with the twins being in SCBU. Told her to get some rest and things will improve - babies are very resilient.

Now for the party - I arrived at the club at 8.30pm and there was a massive queue for the cloakroom sneaking all the way from the ground floor up to the first floor and another sodding queue for the bar (plus no champagne left). Not a great way to start the party and the food (which had been promised) had already been and gone. So I was kinda thankful I did scoff the roast potatoes from the kiddies plate.

The music was diabolical, Maroon 5, Dolly Parton and Bryan Adams. Seriously I could have given them my own party mix tape and it would have got a lot more people shaking their tails. A very drunk colleague gave me a spin around the dance floor but because he is very tall and I am vertically challenged it didn't really come together and we wouldn't have won any points on Strictly ;-)

There was some entertainment from a gospel choir but the sound system was so poor all I could hear was screeching and I did seriously wonder if it wasn't a group from the Finance department having a laugh around the mic! The only saving grace was the 2 photo booths set up on both levels; so me and a few girls climbed in and did the obligatory silly poses and wore ridiculous glasses/hats/wigs.

Don't I look great? You can't see how amazing my hair is but there was a wind machine inside - such fun. We didn't know who that guy was that decided to join us in the booth, found out today he was an accountant from the second floor...Now I know I am a lightweight since having 3 kids but I was ready by 10pm to head home. The party really didn't have the right atmosphere, the music was crap and I really didn't want to keep fighting my way to the free bar for drinks. Also I wanted to get home to hubby, for him to warm my feet up and get out of the ridiculously tight dress. I couldn't sit down for fear of passing out!

Post-script; Baby B did poo after 7 days no poo and has gained more weight and was discharged from hospital. All is well with them.

Silly Festive Season

2011-12-14T22:31:00.000Z

Nestled in the corner of our living room is our Christmas tree...yes its pink purchased from Tesco's..not my choice but actually's D....why? He thought it would show off the vintage German glass toadstool decorations he recently bought at an antique fair in Holland. Go figure his wisdom but Curly Haired Beauty is very happy with the choice - pink is her most favorite colour. The LED rope lights are from Habitat,10 years old and still working the ultimate in recycling/vintage. I've heard the twins try and explain to their childminder about the new addition to our home, 'Daddy's Chrissy tee iz pink'.

We're all gearing up for the festivities ahead, kids presents have all been purchased a month ago *smug smile* and wrapped. Cards have been sent out making the international posting dates. This year it will be bliss to wake up in my own bed on Christmas morning; get the kids up, open the presents together before heading to my parents for the main meal. I don't have to cook- yippeee but I may have to do a bit of washing up (but I know my mum always wash up as she goes along, so there won't be much to do). We'll be able to snooze off the meal in front of the telly whilst the kids entertain their grandparent. Before bundling everyone back into the car and head home. So its going to feel like a proper rest for me. *Sigh* I cannot wait.

Happy Christmas and hope yours will be filled with fun and laughter with loved ones.
twosp xxxx

Super sample sales for December

2011-12-09T07:45:00.000Z

For last minute gifting for yourself (v important) or for friends and loved ones.

I can vouch at the last Erdem, beautiful printed silk scarves on sale for £50....I also purchased a lovely silk navy pelham top and a camel cashmere bell shaped sculpted skirt. Both were also £50 each so true bargains are out there.

What: Nicholas Kirkwood
Why: Shoes from £25.
When: Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri., 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: The Music Room, 26 S. Molton Ln., W1K 5AB.

What: Bodyamr
Why: Up to 75 per cent off ready-to-wear and jersey pieces.
When: Thurs. & Fri., 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Where: 7 Coptic St., WC1A 1NH (020 7691 2085).

What: Erdem
Why: Discounted ready-to-wear and accessories.
When: Thurs., 1-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: The Future Gallery, 5 Great Newport St., WC2H 7HY.

What: Claret Showroom
Why: House of Harlow, Winter Kate and Madeleine Thompson cashmere from £40.
When: 12-14 Dec. Mon.-Wed., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 73 Uverdale Rd., SW10 0SW.

What: Me & Em
Why: Loungewear, cashmere, dresses, jeans and tops from £20.
When: 14 & 15 Dec. Wed., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: 21 Connaught St., W2 2AY (08456 800975).

What: Orla Kiely
Why: Discounted ready-to-wear, accessories, and bags.
When: 14-17 Dec. Wed.-Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 20th Century Theatre, 291 Westbourne Gr., W11 2QA.

What: Greene & Sheppard
Why: Clothing by Pink Label, Finders Keepers, Cameo and more from £5.
When: 15 Dec. Thurs., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 66 Charlotte St., 1st flr., W1T 4QE. Cash only.

What: KJ’s Laundry
Why: Up to 70 per cent off clothing and accessories by designers including Cacharel, Rebecca Taylor and Anne Valérie Hash.
When: 16-19 Dec. Fri., Sat. & Mon., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: 74 Marylebone Ln., W1U 2PW (020 7486 7855).

What: Sam Ubhi
Why: Up to 80 per cent off jewellery and bags.
When: Today, 4-9 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 12 Glenburnie Rd., SW17 7PJ (020 8767 5533).
What: Mother of Pearl
Why: Up to 70 per cent off clothing.
When: Sat. & Sun., 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Where: 33 Fashion St., E1 6PX.
What: Temperley
Why: Discounted ready-to-wear and accessories.
When: 5 & 6 Dec. Mon., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Tues., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 20th Century Theatre, 291 Westbourne Gr., W11 2QA (020 7229 4179).
Photo: Lisa Stirling / Getty Images

Courtesy Daily Candy

Designer Warehouse Sale

2011-11-28T21:52:00.001Z

Hello, its been a while sorry for the silence. This time its not the kids taking up my time but work related matter... a job, no job, may still have a job, waiting to find out what's going on...All change on the senior executive level (again). Don't 'they' know I have a Net-a-Porter habit to support. I also enjoy going out to work to get a break from the kids! So right now I may be getting a P45 in the post but until that happens I'll don my designer gear, put my best smile on and face the day :-)

5/6 ISLINGTON STUDIOS

THANE WORKS
THANE VILLAS

LONDON N7 7NU

NEAREST TUBE: HOLLOWAY ROAD (3 MINUTES) FINSBURY PARK (4 MINUTES)

ADMISSION £2

THE DESIGNER WAREHOUSE SALES

ONLY 5 DAYS TO GO

KEEP CALM THERE'S STILL 23 DAYS TO CHRISTMAS!

Expect from: A COMMON THREAD AIGNER ALLEGRI ALBERTA FERRETTI AMERICAN VINTAGE ANDERSON & LAUTH ANNA MOLINARIANNE-LOUISE ROSWALD ANTIK APANAGE APRILE & APRILE ATTIC & BARN BABAKUL BARACUTA BARBARA WIGGINS BALLANTYNEBECKERMAN BEST BEHAVIOUR BIKKEMBERG BITTE KINI RAULBLACQUA BLITZ BLUMARINE BOBI BOLONGARO TREVOR BURBERRYBY MALENE BIRGER CARATERE CARLOPIK CALVIN KLEIN CATHERINE MALANDRINO CAVALLI CAVALLERIA TOSCANA CELINE CLASS CCDKCECILA PRADO CERRUTTI CHLOE CHRISTIAN AUDIGIER CHRISTIAN DIOR CHRISTOPHER FISCHER CRISTINA GAVIOLI CRUZ CLOTHINGCUSTOM MORE DAVID AND SCOTTI DAY DESIGNERS MARKETDESIGNERS REMIX DOLCE & GABBANA D.M. ELLE MACPHERSONEMOZIONI ENRICO COVERI ERMANO SCERVINO ESSENTIALSEUROPEAN COUTURE EXTE FAITH 'FAY' BY TODS FENDI FERRAGAMOFRANKLIN & MARSHALL FURLA FULL CIRCLE GALLIANOGIANFRANCO FERRE GIANNI GIVENCHY GLOW GOAT GRAB GRAHAM & SPENCER GUCCI HARTFORD HELMUT LANG HIGH HOSS INTROPIAHUNZA ICEBERG JIL SANDER JOHN RICHMOND JUST CAVALLI JULIEN MCDONALD KAREN BY SIMONSEN KARL DONOGHUE KREME LAURA LEES MAC MACKINTOSH MAJE MALIPRAMI MALO MANDERINA DUCKMANIYAK MANTEGNA MARITHE & FRANCOIS GIRBAUD MASONS MARC BY MARC JACOBS MCQ BY ALEXANDER MCQUEEN MARTIN MARGIELAMICHAEL DE NARDO MIMOSA MISSONI MOSCHINO MUSA MYLANATION NEIL BARRETT NEW SCOTLAND NOBODY NORTHLAND NU WOMAN OAKLAND ONCE UPON A TIME OYUNA P.A.R.O.S.H PATRIZIAPEPE PEOPLE'S MARKET PLEIN SUD POLECEI PRADA PRAIRIE NEW YORK PRESTO PUMA RALPH LAUREN RAINBEAUX REBECCA TYLERRED DOT REPEAT REPLAY RITES ROBERTO CAVALLI ROBERTA SCARPA ROCCO BAROCCO RICK OWENS RINDI ROMEO GIGLI SEE BY CHLOE SEMON CASHMERE SENECA RISING SERGIO ROSSI SIWY SOLOSOPHIA KOKOLO SAKI SOPHIE SWIRE STELLA FORREST TARA JARMON TOM FORD TRACY REECE UNKNOWN VALENTINO VALENTINO RED VELVET VIVIENNE WESTWOOD VERA WANG VERSACE WISH YOHJI YAMAMOTO 120% 360 SWEATERS 575 JEANS All under one roof, and our prices are up to 70% off. HAPPY SHOPPING HAPPY CHRISTMAS

WOMENSWEAR SALE

FRIDAY 2nd - SUNDAY 4th DECEMBER

FRI 10-8PM

SAT 10-6PM

SUN 11-5PM

information tel: 020 7697 9888 Email: info@designerwarehousesales.com

www.designerwarehousesales.com and now on facebook and twitter

Shopping plans foiled

2011-11-20T13:06:00.000Z

I could weep, there have been some major sample sales happening in and around London but I had to give them all a miss....Mr Fashion (Twin 1) chose to bite into a Persil liquid tab whilst at the new childminders; so frantic dash to A&E in rush hour. Thankfully its not toxic and he was not harmed in any way. Just lots of coughing, throwing up but nothing got properly ingested to foam up inside him or go into his lungs! We had to hang about for 3 hours for him to be observed. They wanted to check if he would do a bowel movement (which he obliged) and no it did not smell any nicer than normal. He's learnt his lesson and this is probably his first childhood memory as he tell's it; "Shazzon house, blue washing, bite it, yucky, was sick...". so there you go - his speech therapist would be proud of that sentence construction.

So no Gina shoes for me, no Lara Bohic jewellery, no Goat cashmere, No Jenny Packham glamourous evening wear :-(

Hopefully nothing else will happen and I'll see if I can make these sales - I'm always out for a bargain!

What: Ann Louise Roswald and Queene and Belle
Why: Clothing, accessories, fabrics and textiles from £10.
When: 21 Nov. Mon., 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: The Toy Factory, 11-13 Corsham St., N1 6DP (020 7250 1583).

What: Tania
Why: Up to 70 per cent off cashmere and knits.
When: 22 & 23 Nov. Tues., 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Wed., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 61 Addison Rd., W14 8JJ (020 7602 3168).

What: Tatjana Anika
Why: Up to 60 per cent off bikinis and beachwear.
When: 23 & 24 Nov. Wed. & Thurs., 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Where: Biondi, 55b Old Church St., SW3 5BS.

What: Lingerie Sale
Why: Up to 80 per cent off lingerie and loungewear from designers Damaris, Mimi Holliday, Sexy Panties and Naughty Knickers, Beautiful Bottoms and more.
When: 29 Nov. Tues., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Where: 20th Century Theatre, 291 Westbourne Gr., W11 2QA.

What: Jamie Jewellery
Why: Jewellery and accessories from £10.
When: 29 & 30 Nov. & 1 Dec. Tues. & Wed., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 12 Holmdale Gd., NW4 2LX (020 8457 1313).

Jamie also sells on ASOS - where I picked up this long star chain necklace. Its very pretty and strikes the right delicate balance and adds golden glimmer to warm up an Autumnal outfit

Sale details Courtesy of Daily Candy

Sparkling like a precious object

2011-11-09T21:49:00.000Z

That's what we called our first born Curly Haired Beauty (middle name)...OK we did go a little mad when we named her but she was our very much longed for daughter.

Here are a few lovely sparkling things that caught my eye - perfect to dress up a dull outfit that needs some cheer and extra oomph. Taking a style leaf from The Queen, wear near to the face so the light from the crystals radiates your complexion.

*note I put the most expensive one first! Forgive my deluxe taste I know in these squeezed times we should be more restrained but it doesn't mean we can't window shop and marvel.

Diamond Spray Brooch guide price at auction from Bonhams £1500-2000

Crystal oversized brooch from Debenhams £40 Super shiny and glitzy, I must have been a magpie in a previous life.

Crystal and Pearl Brooch from Accessorize £9 This is more my budget and will look great pinned against my grey faux fur collar.

Sophia Loren image from here

Party dresses - no red wine allowed

2011-11-07T22:41:00.000Z

Something different for the party season, a white dress to make you stand out from the sea of LBD's

ALICE by Temperley Long Mirabel Dress £200 - get it quick its on sale

Whistles beaded collar dress £195

Lipsy sequin shift dress £60 from ASOS

Reiss Peacock dress £195 - OK I cheated a little its really cream in colour....

They know me so well

2011-11-05T20:07:00.000Z

I was luckily enough to receive gift vouchers for my birthday - Selfridges and ASOS . How wonderful is that and how well do my friends and family know me; to feed my shopping habit!!!

Mmmm what to get? Maybe...

By Pip Studio - Birds of Paradise pattern. This will look jolly cheerful in my bathroom.

Or try out a new perfume for the Autumnal season? Tom Ford Black Orchid £60 for 50 ml

Something totally frivolous a diamante skull & cross bone pendant by Vivienne Westwood £70 - all from Selfridges

Get ahead and start planning my Christmas party outfit? A/Wear slinky jumpsuit £40

I can totally see myself shimmying around the dance floor in this square pailette shift dress £120 both from ASOS

So a big thank you to everyone - as well as joy of being given a gift voucher, the thoughtfulness of letting me have the experience of browsing on-line, as well as being able to 'purchase' what I want is truly a lovely present for me. Mwah

40 years and 9 days

2011-11-03T21:55:00.000Z

No tear, no tantrums (well not by me) and my face hasn't dramatically aged overnight since turning 40 - my greatest fear. The office gave me a sweet little celebration and a lot of 'well I would never had known you were that old' and 'whats your beauty secret?' written in the cards. So here's a list of what I've been slathering on and right now my skin has never looked and felt smoother!

Daily routine
Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish
Clarins Toning lotion with Iris
Clarins Vital Light Serum
Champneys Collagen Intense Eye Therapy
Origins Brighter by Nature SPF 35 moisturiser

Twice a week
Elemis Skin Buff exfoiliator

Once a week
Elemis Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing Gel Mask

I picked these products mainly for their toning, exfoliating and brightening properties. I think dull looking skin is very ageing. I have some dark patches on my face (NOT age spots) when I was last pregnant with the twins that has never really faded. So I hope with more regular use they may also start to go away too. I don't suffer from any deep lines or creases in my face (unlike D with is Sid James forehead) but I put that down to giving up sunbathing at 10 years ago and not smoking (smug me). No crows feet, no eye-bags, no puppet lines. Lucky old me!

Its never been a chore to look after my skin - I like putting in the effort of having a beauty routine. The skin is your biggest organ and has so many functions protecting you daily from infection, UV light, pollution, waterproofing ...you gotta love your skin and care for it Ladies. You're worth it...

2011-10-31T10:12:00.022Z

Courtesy of Daily Candy

These sales couldn't have come at a better time With only 2 pay day's to Christmas its a chance to hunt down some fashionable bargains for yourself and loved ones.

Image from Les Nereides

What: Ash
Why: Shoes, boots and handbags from £35.
When: 31 Oct.-4 Nov. Mon.-Fri., 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Where: 77 Great Titchfield St., W1W 6RF (020 7323 1020).
What: Out + About Showroom
Why: Clothing and accessories from Minkpink, Evil Twin and Staple from £5.
When: 3 & 4 Nov. Thurs. & Fri., 10:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.
Where: 11 Poland St., 2nd flr., W1F 8QA (01280 840440).
What: MiH Jeans
Why: Denim, jersey pieces and shirts from £15.
When: 2-4 Nov. Wed. & Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 90 Lots Rd., units 22 & 23, SW10 0QD (020 7349 9030).
What: Pringle of Scotland
Why: Up to 70 per cent off ready-to-wear, classic knits and accessories.
When: 2-4 Nov. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 255a Pavilion Rd., SW1X OBP.
What: Reiss
Why: Clothing and accessories from £10.
When: 2-5 Nov. Wed.-Fri., 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: The Music Room, 26 S. Molton Ln., W1K 5AB.
What: Les Néréides
Why: Up to 80 per cent off costume jewellery.
When: 2-6 Nov. Wed.-Sat., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Where: 35 Long Acre, WC2E 9JT (020 7379 9197).
What: Jo Gordon
Why: Knitted scarves, hats and gloves from £10.
When: 4 Nov. Fri., 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Where: 7 Druce Rd., SE21 7DW.
What: Lucas Hugh
Why: Up to 70 per cent off luxury sportswear.
When: 6 Nov. Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 1b Kensington Park Mews, W11 2EY (020 7221 4885).
What: Max & Moi
Why: Cashmere clothing and accessories from £50.
When: 8 Nov. Tues., 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Where: London House, 266 Fulham Rd., SW10 9EL (01908 233640).
What: Bebaroque
Why: Hosiery, underwear and accessories from £10.
When: 10 Nov. Thurs., 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. & 4:30-7 p.m.
Where: Goodley PR, 1 Conduit St., W1S 2XA.
What: The London Designer Sale
Why: Up to 80 per cent off clothing and accessories from designers including Ferragamo and See by Chloé.
When: 11 Nov. Fri., 1-9 p.m.
Where: The Music Room, 26 S. Molton Ln., W1K 5AB (07900 432661).
What: M & L Harris Agencies
Why: Up to 80 per cent off shoes and handbags by Gucci, Marc Jacobs, Stella McCartney, Pretty Ballerina and more.
When: 11 Nov. Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: 10-11 Greenland Pl., NW1 OAP (020 7428 3280).

Image from Jo Gordon

Party Face

2011-10-30T11:08:00.001Z

Festive season is upon us, Halloween, Bonfire night, Thanksgiving and dare I start mentioning Christmas???

Bobbi Brown Ultimate Party collection £59

Lancome Christmas Colour Wardrobe £60

Dior Velvet Eyes Backstage Eyeliners £47
I seriously need to get hold of these items, I never could master a good eyeliner flick and these seem to be the answer to my prayers....I am going to make a great looking Mortica Adams on Halloween!

Matches - my style picks

2011-10-28T11:03:00.000+01:00

For those of you in need of something fancy for a Halloween party this coming weekend; here are my glamourous picks from Matches who have a mid-season sale on

Printed dress by Preen £239

Knitted and beaded dress by Markus Lupfer £121

Lace and satin dress by Project D £132

Tea for two..three

2011-10-27T15:40:00.000+01:00

It wasn't a great start on the morning of turning 40...Curly Haired Beauty was running a high temperature of 100F so she had to stay home rather than go to the childmiders (its the school break this week). But by lunchtime she had perked up (the miracle that is Calpol) and decided she wanted to come out with mum and dad . She didn't know our plans but was up for a train and taxi journey. So a few hours later D, she and me were transported to Mayfair and entered the hallowed realms of Claridges for afternoon tea.

Arrangement of white cases filled with white flowers (takeaway decor idea)

The hugest floral arrangement I have ever seen, white roses and pussy willow. We were seated right under it.

Chihuly glass artwork hanging above - there's a similar one at the V&A

Photos by Curly Haired Beauty aged nearly 5. Look how the wonderful soft lighting makes my complexion glow...what a mugshot! In the background is a pianist and cello player who knocked out Cole Porter's finest repertoire

What we drank: Lemonade for Curly Haired Beauty, Assam tea for D, Pomegranate Pekoe tea for me.

What we ate: Finger Sandwiches - Shropshire ham, egg mayo with rocket, smoked salmon, cucumber and cream cheese. We were asked if we would like more and of course we said yes please.
Cakes - the serious stuff
Chocolate ganache, fruit tart, apple and raisin scones, Champagne jelly, banana cake

Look a silver stand for your teapots and cakes to hang around in!

I would have taken more serious foodie shots, but this wasn't a restaurant review but my birthday celebration.

So far no tears about turning 40 but I have another celebration this weekend with the rest of my family.

Over a decade ago

2011-10-21T12:13:00.002+01:00

My 29th birthday celebration was Ah-Mazing, no other party could top that experience. I think that's why subsequent birthdays have all be a bit of a let down... 30 was OK I was in Florence, got proposed to etc. But my 29th was at The Ritz Hotel; her Majesty the Queen was there! I kid you not, really she was there with her sister Princess Margaret (before she scalded her feet and got ill etc.) and Prince Philip!!!

I had a huge heap of friends old and new all show up at the hotel bar, prices for drinks were eye-watering but the plentiful freebie bar snacks helped things along. The men had to wear a tie and jacket. Bless my little mate J who was a runner at Sony was loaned a jacket by the cloakroom so he could be allowed in. I did have some friends stuck outside who couldn't get in and as they furiously tried to call me; Her security team had stopped people entering but prior to her arrival they were letting me, my rag tail friends all in with no problem at all. It was Princess Margaret's belated birthday hosted by her son. We saw Darcey Brussels the ballet dancer, Jim Davidson was part of the night's entertainment. As they walked past the bar staff started to tell us all to get up as her majesty was approaching. I thought this was part of Royal protocol, but actually they were all really excited and wanted a good look themselves. The Royals walked past chatting amongst themselves and the tallest ever security man I have ever seen stood by the door to their private function room. My Aussie mate was texting her dad down under to tell him what had happened - just how surreal was that? Her Madge at my party (well nearly but you know what I mean)

Throughout the evening we could hear pockets of laughter leaking out from the far room, my mates did lots of runs to the Ladies to see if they could 'bump into someone'. With all our funds exhausted, nuts eaten and bored but still friendly bar staff we decided to leave as we couldn't really out-party the Royals. On the way out we all got papped (flash, flash, flash) and actually got to walk on the red carpet, scurry sideways and then onto the tube. It was a brilliant night and although I am not a true blue royalist I do have a soft spot for her Majesty ever since I saw her 1977 at a Silver Jubilee Festival; My mum got a policeman to take a photo as her car went by. Its one of her treasured mementos in the family album.

Style Passport - my sale picks

2011-10-19T21:10:00.000+01:00

It's only halfway through Autumn and retailers are already have mid-season sales. A website I have recently been trawling has some amazing bargains to be had. These Sophie Hulme designs have me salivating..just wish I had the funds to invest in these pieces as they are true wonderfully designed classics.

Contrast silk dress

Leather zip top shopper, look at those gold tone hardware details - Love it

Keyhole single belt, also available in red.

Trolley dash

2011-10-18T20:50:00.000+01:00

Ho-hum only a week to go before I hit 4-0...I was feeling fine until I caught sight of by birthday card doing the rounds at the office with '40' emblazoned on the front...they mean well and I know my boss didn't want my birthday to go unacknowledged. But now everyone knows my up-coming age change. With CV's left, right and center here; there are an awful lot of people born in the 80's and that makes me feel ancient! Nivarna's Nevermind album was first relased 20 years ago! 20 years ago I was a student studying fashion without a care in the world trying to work out how to crash fashion shows and get a dinner invite to meet the Editor of The Face. Funnily enough when I was a student I used to have a facial once a month. Now I would be lucky if I could fit one in twice a year...how does that happen?

Well times have changed and although I don't feel older I am a lot wiser - I seem to be the 'go to' person for information. Tell me, am I a Miss Know it all? When did that happen? I'm not your typical mother hen either I just seem to retain a lot of information, have a memory like an elephant and can recall a lot of things in details...not that I would ever be a good spy.

So this week I will be doing my obligatory trolley dash amongst the beauty counter to scoop up the latest lotions and potions to retain my youthful complexion. I don't want to look younger, just keep what I have from sagging and bagging. A work colleague thinks I have another 10 years before my face gives up and starts to drag down my chin and create jowls (how kind - she has a way with words and was formerly Pete Waterman's PA).I think she meant well...

Anyway there is a wealth of products out at the moment and I'm intrigued to try them all. Every freebie newspaper has an advert for Nanoblur and although the before and after photos look impressive I'm not really sure how it works. But at £19.99 it can't hurt to give it a go and see. I've read some reviews that its a no go if you wear foundation as it makes it cake but as I use mineral powders as my base I should be OK. I shall report back and let you know if it works!

Another product I would love to get my hands on is Clarins Vital Light serum. It seems like a real multi-tasker, tackling anti-ageing, resurfacing, anti-dark spot, line smoother etc. Can it really be this good?

Vessell Gallery

2011-10-12T21:53:00.000+01:00

Be still my beating heart, This Pollo vase is back in stock at Vessel Gallery near Westbourne Grove. Its designed by a Finnish designer called Tapio Wirkkala for Rosenthal. D and I bought the smaller white version when we moved into our first marital home. Its amazingly tactile and very pleasing to hold. It holds a single stem flower beautifully (my maison choice du jour is an orchid*). I would forgo my coat fund to buy this larger version which is the size of a hen.

The staff at the gallery are amazingly knowledgeable, they actually get sent to visit the factories that produce these beautiful objects and come back armed with information about the techniques used, the designers history etc. So you feel very involved when you buy a work of art. Staff top tip : to keep the matt ceramic pristine a squirt of Cif on a soft cloths will remove fingermarks!

Can you believe this Teddy Bear sculpture is made of ceramic? Designed by Bodil Soderlund.

Should I invest in one of these - start the kids early in ceramic art appreciation?

*Excuse the French lingo

Champneys retreat

2011-10-10T18:20:00.000+01:00

I had the luck to receive a Red Letter Day voucher as a thank you present from the office :-) so I chose a spa weekend break at Champneys at their Tring site. I have been a past visitor at Henlowe Grange but I was keen to check out the re-vamped Ting location and my goodness I was not disappointed.

D and I had picked the perfect weekend, full on glorious Indian Summer first weekend of October. Due to the bad traffic we arrived late so we missed the buffet lunch but as soon as we were checked in and the porter showed us to our very spacious superior room. We changed into our swimwear and donned the obligatory fluffy white robes and slipper. We had a good soak in the outside hot sunken hot tub and it felt very surreal to be wearing sunglasses, very LA darlings! Then we braved the sauna (I survived for 10 minutes) and chickened out of the cold plunge pool! Then onto some pampering; an amazing full body massage which really sorted out the knots and kinks in my back. Later in the day I went to a Perfect Posture class and learnt something new about my body - I have really tight hamstrings and buttocks....ouch!

Part of the old Rothchild mansion, I just loved these large grand airy rooms

The view of the magnificent ground with lots of places to lounge around to admire the gardens.

In the evening there was a music soiree for guests but D and I decided to play (badly) a game of snooker in the Games Room - lots of cheating on both sides! But I think D was impressed I actually managed to pot some balls...

Mmmm the pink velvet sofa I converted; inside the Drawing a perfect place to read the Sunday papers

Part of my healthy breakfast - you don't see the stack of toast, bagels, cereals etc I scoffed as well.

The next day I did a Total Body Stretch class and my goodness I felt totally stretched out afterwards. Followed by a facial which kept my skin glowing for days. The therapist didn't do any hard sells of the product used (my pet hate) but I did go buy the collegen eye serum as it felt amazingly light and cool around my eyes. D had his feet revamped with a Deluxe pedicure - they didn't need to get the axel grinder but it was borderline on his feet. They have never felt so soft!

I will certainly be coming back here again (babysitters permitting) it was a real tonic to escape and have some real R&R for just the two of us.

This post is my honest opinion and I received no income for this review.

Jeanius

2011-10-01T09:07:00.000+01:00

I made a slight omission on my last post there was another item I bought at the Question Air warehouse sale (YES I bought WAAAYY too much). It was a pair of Current/Elliot Stilletto skinny cropped jeans in pale grey or Beetle as they call it. Its fast become a wardrobe staple for my weekend's paired with a breton stripy Tee. So these jeans deserves a post devoted to it.

They are a LA based premium denim label; who I have been wanting to to purchase for ages. I could never justify the high price tag but at this sale I snapped them up for £60 rather than the normal £165 price. What a bargain and the fit is amazing, its got the right amount of stretch and the denim isn't too thick and stifling to wear unlike some other skinny fit jeans I have worn. Although cropped, they stop just past my ankles (I am vertically challenged) so another plus win for me.

There are some sizes left for sale at The Outnet

My Haul

2011-09-28T17:50:00.000+01:00

Dear father I have sinned - I blew my Ocado budget on fripperies at the Question Air warehouse sale and now we will all have to live on beans...But look at what amazing things I bought *leaps like a loon*

Nadine pink mini dress, a real pop of colour, you can't help but notice me in this dress - and why have one Alice By Temperley dress when you can have another...I couldn't bear to leave it on the rail I had to have this also!

Annette Maxi dress - its a beautifully draped jersey dress which I wore today dressed down with converse sneakers!

Lavenham quilted gilet - for when Autumn returns (loving this India Summer that's happening in London). I can see this layered over jumpers etc. when I have to keep the heating off as I can't pay the gas bills.

Juicy Couture trackie - for the slob days :-) couldn't resist a bargain the zip up top was £29 and bottoms £15

If I had any funds left *sobs* I would have been heading for the Temperley Sample Sale which starts Tomorrow until Friday at:
20th Century Theatre
291 Westbourne Grove
london
W11 2QA
Directions here

******************************************************

For those of you with a home to furnish and cannot be bothered to trawl the antique markets at the crack of dawn.

Graham & Green have a warehouse sale on Saturday 1st October thru to Sunday 2nd October
Unit 2B
Capital Interchange Way
Brentford
TW8 0EX
Directions here

Images from Graham and Green

More tea vicar?

2011-09-23T21:45:00.000+01:00

I very rarely get the chance to brew a proper cuppa in a teapot; a few dunks of a tea-bag into a mug (zilch caffeine and then a quick slurp before I run out the door to work. Weekends are no longer the leisurely paced occasions they used to be. The kids don't have a pause button so its still an early start in this manic household before we hit the park, softplay, shops etc. no rest for the wicked!

But I'm looking forward to the teenage years when they all turn into sloths and stay under the duvets till past noon. Then I can set a breakfast table, read the papers while my cup of cha happily brews...

A few of these teapots caught my eye which would look fantastic displayed out.

Cuckoo Teapot by Wedgewood £65

Pip Studio Love Birds Teapot £40

V&A Brompton Rose Teapot £25

Happy Birthday Blog

2011-09-18T12:52:00.017+01:00

Help yourself to a virtual slice of birthday cake. This Blog is 4 years old today. To all my followers and readers THANK YOU for stopping by. Who knew I would still be blogging for all this time; my random thoughts, shopping obsession, with a little bit of family insight. I am always touched whenever a comment is left (apart from the obligatory Spam/penis enlargement/Viagra pills - why?).

Teawithonesugarplease
Mwah! xoxoxoxoxoxo

Fantasy Fur

2011-09-16T21:45:00.001+01:00

Faux, Fantasy, Fake, whatever you want to call it Twisted Red Fox by ASOS will dress up any winter coat £45.

Grey Lapel collar by ASOS £25

Urban Outfitters Faux fur snood £32 mmm might get this one to jazz up my camel wool coat.

A big look on Tom Ford's Autumn/Winter 2011 cat-walk collection...of course he was using the real thing...

Question Air Warehouse Sale

2011-09-15T12:01:00.009+01:00

Sharpening my elbows in anticipation for this sale. Its a real bun-fight BUT I am strong I will nab my bargains, I will succeed! Sale starts from 9am and goes onto 6pm Saturday 17th September St Barnabas Parish Hall Dulwich Village London SE21 7BT

Kinky boots

2011-09-14T21:23:00.000+01:00

I can't see what Mrs B is trying to achieve here - credit for photo from here

Extremely practical footwear in New York, cradling a 9 week old baby...

If you wish to emulate her look, then these Viola boots by Kurt Geiger £350 will do the trick (handy for pole dancing too).

But as a working woman with 3 small children, I prefer these Carvela boots to keep my toes toasty £150, chic non? Perfect for hiding cankles

But these dear little ponyskin boots are on sale for £69 KG Vanika boots. My inner rock chick is wanting to bust out - 4-0 crisis looming....

I want it now

2011-09-12T22:36:00.000+01:00

Darn, Debenhams Press office has been in touch - the Winter coat I want is not available until the first week of November. That's ages away and I want a new coat now. Have you seen the weather outside, its properly cold and wet.

Thankfully some ideas from The Outnet popped into my In Box so now all I have to decide is which one to get....?

Marni, patterned wool coat £294

Alexander Wang, Oversized textured wool coat £318

Ab Fab

2011-09-09T11:34:00.002+01:00

A little warm up as these ladies are coming back to our screens

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0RO-9Owbck

Give it some welly

2011-09-08T12:11:00.000+01:00

For those of you who follow me on Twitter you will know of my love for these Hunter welly boots. I have worn them throughout the wet Summer and now Autumn is here. They have become my every day staple and have saved on having to suffer wet squelchy feet all day! Who knew the puddles of W1 were so extreme and deep...Westminister Council take note of the bad pavements that tip up and splash up filthy water over your feet/legs. When I wear these, I stride with confidence (and feel a little smug).

Work colleagues used to mock me but hey now they are seriously thinking of spending the money for these beauties. I chose the short black glossy version as they are more practical to tuck trousers into. The glossy rubber also doesn't suffer from the 'white bloom' that appears on the matt version(due to UV lights).

There's nothing more fun for the kids than to try on and walk in my boots. Luckily they also do children sizes; so I may have to get a pair for Curly Haired Beauty - well it is on her essential school uniform list.....

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-07T22:07:00.000+01:00

Sunny Sands (yes it really is called that), Folkestone Kent

September Sample Sales

2011-09-02T21:06:00.000+01:00

Courtesy of Daily Candy

What: The Secret Sample Sale
Why: Up to 90 per cent off clothing and accessories by designers including Armani, See by Chloé and Joseph.
When: Today, 1-8 p.m.; Sat., noon-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m.
Where: T2, The Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Ln., E1 6QL (020 7247 3959 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 020 7247 3959 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).
What: Bodyamr
Why: Up to 80 per cent off eveningwear and jersey pieces.
When: 7-9 Sept. Wed.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Where: 7 Coptic St., WC1A 1NH (020 7691 2085 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 020 7691 2085 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).

What: Sam Ubhi
Why: Jewellery and bags at up to 80 per cent off.
When: 8-10 Sept. Thurs. & Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 12 Glenburnie Rd., SW17 7PJ (020 8767 5533 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 020 8767 5533 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).
What: Sample Hunters
Why: Up to 90 per cent off clothing and accessories from designers including Stone Island, DKNY Jeans and Missoni.
When: 8-11 Sept. Thurs., 2-7 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Shop 14, The Old Truman Brewery, 15 Hanbury St., E1 6QR.
What: London Designer Sale
Why: Clothing and accessories from Prada, Belstaff, Ralph Lauren and more from £10.
When: 9-10 Sept. Fri., 1-9 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: The Music Room, 26 S. Molton Ln., W1K 5AB (07900 432661 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 07900 432661 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).
What: Beulah
Why: Up to 60 per cent off cotton and silk dresses.
When: 15 & 16 Sept. Thurs. & Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: H2 Capital House, The Old Gas Works, 2 Michael Rd., SW6 2AD.

What: Margaret Howell
Why: Up to 70 per cent off clothing, home products and fabric.
When: 22 & 23 Sept. Thurs. & Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: The Music Room, 26 S. Molton Ln., W1K 5AB.
What: Temperley
Why: Discounted ready-to-wear, accessories and one-off samples.
When: 29 & 30 Sept. Thurs., 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 20th Century Theatre, 291 Westbourne Gr., W11 2QA (020 7229 4179 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 020 7229 4179 end_of_the_skype_highlighting).

Fickle

2011-08-31T16:29:00.001+01:00

Oh fickle fashion me...I know can't decide between these winter coat options

Wool cape from The White Company

Red coat from Whistles

Green wool mix coat from ASOS

If I did still go for the Roksander coat I may run the small risk of looking a little like Sully from Monsters Inc, in all his faux fur glory....

Would that be a bad thing to channel AW10/11 ???

Get your coat on

2011-08-29T21:18:00.000+01:00

I had previously blogged about a new winter coat for Curly Haired Beauty and had coveted the J Crew one, well I have discovered there is an adult version here on Net-a-porter.

It's available hot orange it will make me stand out from the sea of grey and blacks, which seem to be the standard winter colour palette. Its a classic cut wool coat and my sensible head suggests I should get it for AW10/11 but then my eye was drawn to a feature in last week's Grazia Roksanda Illincic collaboration with Debenhams. A navy faux-fur paneled cocoon coat.

My heart says 'GET IN NOW', look how amazing this looks. I know its not the most practical thing to own. I haven't worn fake fur since I was a fashion student. But this looks so chic in navy and I would look so beartastic (OK I made that word up). I would have to avoid Mr Fashion and The Foley Artists sticky paws on a daily basis but it would be so worth it owning something that Illnic had a hand in designing. Of course I can't wear it in the rain either and would it keep me warm this winter????? I don't care - a big cocoon coat would make your legs look stick thin;.I'm going to ditch my practical Uggs and hike in heels.

As I head to the Big 4-0 I'm tired of purchasing the classics, the basic staples, neutral colours, mix and match wardrobe - I want to break out of boring.

My new style role model is Anna Dello Russo who has fun with fashion.

Just like something I used to do 20 years ago....oh not that I want to be young again but I got a slap in the face on Twitter to be reminded that Nivana's Nevermind album came out 20 years ago...I remember Grunge like it was yesterday.

This Week

2011-08-27T20:57:00.000+01:00

The last week of Summer and its been a wet one ..oh well roll on Autumn but here's what I've managed to squeeze in this week.

A little peek of blue sky...which didn't last for very long, my view on the way into work. Doesn't that look fun?

Mmmm lunch with the girls, we got 1 of our 5 a day here at Market Place a very refreshing and strong Frozen Watermelon Margarita.

Another meal at my absolute favourite place in Soho Polpetto to start early celebrations of D's birthday. Sorry no pics of the food as we scoffed it really quickly. But we ate Brown Shrimp with braised Gem lettuce, Zucchini Fries, Vignole Bruschetta with lardo, Devon crab with spinach and trofie and stewed nectarine with vanilla ice cream and amaretto.

and a lovely mooch round Covent Garden poking about in the shops; you would have thought it was my birthday and not D's

followed by afternoon tea at Laduree

Hope everyone has a lovely Bank Holiday Weekend and enjoy the shorter working week next week. XOXOXOX

Little Red Riding Hood

2011-08-23T20:52:00.000+01:00

OK not quite but with this Autumnal weather (goodbye Summer) my thoughts have turned to winter coats. Not for me mind you but for The Curly Haired Beauty. As you know she starts school next month and there are some very cute on-line options.

This red fleece cape is by American Apparel £37.00

Spotty velvet coat by Boden from £55

If I wanted to blow the budget I might consider this collarless J Crew coat for £209.23 - yep that's right as much as something I would spend on myself in midget size.....mmmm maybe I might be able to squeeze into the size 14 version?????

Silly Season

2011-08-15T22:14:00.000+01:00

Forgive my radio silence this month has been crazy and its only the halfway point of August and already I have experienced...but before I launch into it all I forgot to credit Susie Bubble on my last post for the Clean up picture thingy. Please forgive my net-tiquette!

Where shall I start - oh yes a rant about this super packed month- Mr Fashion had been poorly for a few days with a raging temperature. By the weekend he was covered in spots, I was hoping it was chicken pox but when it started to spread a trip to the locum doctor on an early Sunday morning got told it was measles. Yikes he has not been immunised as he has been on a wait list for the non-egg vaccine coming from India (he cannot have the MMR jab as that contains egg protein). The next day I took him to the GP but the spots had faded and it turned out it wasn't measles but a type of virus and antibiotics prescribed. OK phew big sigh of relief and then I get a call the non-egg vaccine is back in stock so I quickly book a double appointment for the twins for the following weekend after a quick all clear check with the GP.

I know it was something we should have done a lot earlier (like a year ago) but with one thing and another cropping up (twins taking turns to be ill) it took this summer to get it all done. No matter what health professionals say about giving vaccines even when a baby is unwell with a cold, cough or croup. Its not a risk I am prepared to take. Caring for 1 sick baby is hell, caring for 2 sick babies is something I don't want to repeat - we spent far too long n SCBU after their early arrival. I am only just over the whole hand-wringing stress of it all and they are now two!

Then my office had a major fire incident and we were all in temporary offices for 10 days whilst it was sorted out. I developed a bad back from carrying a laptop and a squint (wasn't allowed back to get my glasses - spare one had gone missing). Not a good look as my work heels (6 pairs) were also in my desk drawer; so spent the days feeling short and frumpy running about between 3 sites in grubby trainers/sneakers. Hey ho all fun and games and to top it all when we did get back into the building, on the second day another fire alarm goes off and I had to walk down 6 flights of stairs. I and a few others made sure we grabbed our essentials and I was able to cart off my precious Ferragammo's this time!

As mentioned in my last post we also experienced the rioting, looting and general madness. It happened close enough to feel uncomfortable and made me feel very sad about the future.

On a brighter note I took Curly Haired Beauty to my office (once we got another safety all-clear). She loved hanging out with me for the day. She got her own desk and laptop and spent the time on various kiddie websites playing games. She wasn't tall enough to be useful and help with photocopying but really enjoyed riding up and down the lifts. At one point she made a little den in my bosses office and played an imaginary game giving out orders and taking a register. She wasn't aware the walls are glass and everyone outside could see her playing - cue much cracking up at how adorable she looked with the phone headset. Bless her, she was so cute. One piece of office equipment that really impressed her was the hole puncher and she spent a good 30 minutes making holes in a sheet of A4 paper. Who knew that could be so much fun for a four year old. Later we went to the Sanderson Hotel for the Mad Hatters Tea.

It was a lovely spread and I loved the vintagy cake stands but if I had one teeny tiny criticism; I felt the sandwiches and scones didn't taste very fresh and had been stored too long in the chiller cabinet.

The best bit of her day? When I asked her she said the all white toilets were really fun!

I had a hard time trying to get her out as she flopped out and decided to make a bed on the day bed in the ladies loos....
Excuse these photos but I did these on my camera phone and she wouldn't stand still and I was laughing too much.

Clothing credits: White linen Jacket by Reiss,Skinny Jeans by Sass and Bide. Breton T-shirt by H&M. Curly Haired Beauty's striped Hello Kitty Dress and spotty leggins by H&M. Pink Neon scarf by Accessorize.

CLEAN UP

2011-08-10T22:55:00.000+01:00

We've spent the last few days listening to the screeching sirens and whirling helicopters overhead. The office has issued lots of security warnings and I have stopped wearing jewellery and taken extra precautions not to have any mobile, Blackberry, iPod device on show when walking about in public. It sounds extreme but the extra menace on the streets of London is very real. I've been glued to the news, Twitter and various websites - all very depressing. The burning buildings in Croydon is located only 2 miles from where I live. My lungs were filled with the acrid smoke, not a great way to start the week.

Click here to see if you can help. I hope good shall prevail and the evil driven away. We don't need this lawlessness. But since a lot of the mindless violent acts have been perpetrated by children (where are their parents?) I fear for the future.

Animal Farm - ELC Review

2011-08-04T21:09:00.001+01:00

This toy review is long over due but that’s because we only got it out of the box last weekend.

We had spent the day at Mudchute Farm on the Isle of Dogs, unknown to us, there were major road closures due to the Triathlon; so a 30 minute car journey ended close to 2 hours!

Luckily we were in my new (second hand) motor so we had air con. But I was sat in the back jammed between 2 car seats which was very uncomfortable. My new car is a super silver Micra – it’s practically the same car I passed my driving test in years ago. Only two previous owners, last one being a pensioner who never drove it much. It’s a lovely present from D and I am soooooooooo happy about it. In the short space of time since I have owned it, I have managed to get Hello Kitty car seat covers and have added a few HK dolls for decoration, HK air freshener, HK tissue box cover – you get the picture. On Ebay I have discovered you can even get stickers to decorate the outside of your car to fully customise it. Childish? Yes! But its so cute and although its not a Nissan Figaro. It’s a bonus we can squash the whole family in for short journeys before we *takes deep breath* get a mummy wagon. I was inspired after seeing a car pakred near where I live that was a real homage to Hello Kitty. The whole back seat was stuffed with HK dolls, cushions and she had furry seat covers. The windows were plastered with stickers and I was very impressed at the level of attention to details. Wheel covers!?!?! Loved it. I tried to take a photo to twitpic it but the owner turned up and drove it away.

Anyway back to the farm visit. It was hellish! I mean the twins wanted to get loose and Curly Haired Beauty decided to regress and wanted to sit in the push chair. Trying to control 3 kids in open space is very demanding with only 2 adults – you are out numbered. The Mudchute Kitchen offered some light relief. A great little café on site; if it wasn’t for the swarms of flies that plagued it. I am surprised we didn’t get dysentery from eating in there. The little ones were happy with the sausage and baked beans. I had the vegetarian breakfast option without eggs and D had leek and potato soup (a hot sunny day and he picks soup – so Northern). D nipped into the gift shop and bought a few toy snakes, sticker books and some mini plastic animals. Mr Fashion had great fun getting his goat to trample up and down my granary toast. The Foley Artist gave a running commentary of the animal noises; his horse neighing is soooo sweet.

When we eventually got home – another 2 hour journey - damn that Triathlon . To entertain the hot and bothered kids, I unpacked the ELC Cobblestone Farm Play set and D and I assembled it together. All the bits for the farm house slotted it really quickly but the hardest part was taking out the animals from its packaging. So many bits of wires to keep them in place. But at last they were all freed and amazingly all 3 children played with it at the same time - TOGETHER. Very rare in this household. The little details on the farm are so lovely and charming; ivy, hollyhock flowers growing around the doorway, even a dandelion flower or two, buttercups in the grass and a hosta plant (get me and my green fingers). There is a little swallows nest near the roof (well I can’t think what other birds nest it could be, I am a city girl after all). I am very impressed how solid the whole set feels. The roof parts lift up so you can place the animals inside to keep them nice and safe.

An hour later Mr Fashion managed to disassemble the farm and he was keen to construct it from scratch himself (cue much screeching from Curly Haired Beauty). He even got his DIY kit out to bash at the roof with his hammer. So that night when all had gone to bed I glued all the sides of the house and stables. I got finger cramp from the amount of glue I used (I may have went a little overboard) and although it looked terrible, once it had dried clear the farm was brilliant again. Big pat on my back for being so ‘crafty’ with glue!

We’ve had the farm set up for nearly a week and although it does pack away, its so much easier just to shove it to one side in the evenings. We have managed to lose the chickens but the horse, donkey and cow are the main animals the kids love to play with. An engaging game the twins invented is to stick the horse or donkey's head through the window and shout 'help, help' and I say back 'rescue me, rescue me'.

Items were kindly sent by ELC – I thank you. My review is an honest opinion and no income was received for the review.

Scorchio Day

2011-08-03T21:44:00.000+01:00

Another scorchio day in the city, I love London in August. Its not like Paris where everything is closed and anyone left in the City of Lights is dead miserable (this is my personal experience and not a sweeping statement about all French people). London feels chilled, despite the heat radiating off the pavements, the mood is relaxed and its feels like a fun place to spend the summer in W1.

D met me for lunch and we headed to El Burrito which is nearby to where I work. They have a great fresh choice of Mexican food made right in front of you and frozen margaritas (although today the machine was broken).

We sat outside in the shade and scoffed our goodies of flour tacos filled with spicy minced beef, guacamole, cheese and jalapenos. Give me this anytime over the golden arches! I've noticed that there seems to have been an explosion of Mexican eateries springing up all over town. Which can only be a good thing to add to the already bursting at the seams choices at lunchtime for us hungry office workers. Randomly an old friend L, who we hadn't seen for years, walked right past us. So it was lovely to have a chit chat catch-up He was picking up a lunch order of Keralan curry from Rasa Express and was on his way to get some pho from the Vietnamese place. Apart from New York I can't think of anywhere else where you can do that!

For a healthy dessert to cool our taste buds, we went round the corner to Yog for frozen yogurt. I love this place and the whole concept of a store dedicated to just one delicious dessert. I got stuck into the dark chocolate whilst D went for the new passion fruit flavour with some sprinkling of fresh fruit - but of course you can opt for chocolate chips, marshmallows etc for a more naughty option. Its the perfect quick fix for a hot, hot day.

It wasn't a gourmet lunch, we didn't spend that much money but it was so much fun just me and D hanging out for an un-hurried lunch just like old times before marriage, before kids. No wailing twins, no demanding 4 year old with un-reasonable demands. Just the two of us. I had almost forgotten what it was like to be a child-free couple *sigh*. Don't get the wrong idea, I love my kids, I love having a family but its just so nice not to have them about for a tiny bit to restore my sanity. Also a reminder for D to notice and realise what a 'hot mamma' I am, never let my figure go, still dressing up and bothering with make-up! Somebody give me a medal for making the effort - I was channeling a City Safari look today. Mango Beige boxy cardigan, chic chino shorts, sand suede heels and a straw trilby from Florence to keep the fierce sun off my hair - the pitfalls of having super black hair that seems to absorb sunlight and give me a hot headed headache. You could fry an egg on my head from the heat after I've been outside for 15 minutes. The outfit neutral tones were perfect for staying cool in this weather.

Summer Hols

2011-08-02T22:28:00.000+01:00

Its the last month of summer (how did that happen) but we have no plans to go away (boo hiss). I'm saving up my holiday dates so I can be around for Curly Haired Beauty when she starts reception in September. My little girl is growing up and will be donning a school uniform, book bag and starting Primary School. She's rearing to go and has not stopped talking about being a big girl who's nearly 5.

But she's been set some homework already 'what I did on my holiday's'. So this mummy is taking her beloved out and about and giving her some memorable summer experiences in London so she as something to talk about.

First stop is The Tiger Who Came to Tea, its one of her favourite books that has been adapted for stage. We have a well worn pop up copy of the book which is read nightly. I'm hoping her attention span has lengthened since last year; for her Christmas panto treat I took her to see the Peppa Pig show and she insisted on leaving during the interval. I think she got confused and thought it was over when people starting getting up. This show however has no interval! So fingers crossed we make it though the 50 minutes.

Then the following week I've got a table at The Sanderson for a Mad Hatters Tea, OK this may be more for mummy than for Curly Haired Beauty. But I know she would just love the exploding lollipops!

How yummy does this tea look? The sandwiches are coloured with beetroot, spinach and saffron. The Drink Me bottle is filled with a potion tasting of Apple Pie, Lemon Curd and English Toffee.

Photos from here

Curly Haired Beauty will also accompany me to my office for a couple of Fridays - she's been really curious about what I do and since most colleagues will be away, its an ideal time to have her come in and see what mummy does (not much, eat cupcakes) and mess about on the computer. Its scary just how proficient she is navigating Cbeebies, CITV, Nick Jr and Milkshake websites. She even does better than me playing Angry Birds (I just don't have the patience).

I'm thinking of taking her to Polpo for lunch, an Venetian Bacaro. Before anyone thinks I am being irresponsible for taking her to an Soho drinking joint. It does great little dishes perfect for her appetite. She will be impeccably behaved - she always is in public - just a right little madam when she gets home and clashes with Mr. Fashion.

If an establishment serves ice cream like this, well its an invitation for children to come along.....

I've also have 5 days of a local Summer play scheme booked so she can hang out with kids , get crafting, make some new friends who will be going to her school.

Phew - I'm going to want a holiday to get over her summer holiday.

Vintage

2011-07-28T13:05:00.002+01:00

The weather is forecasted to be warm and sunny this weekend. So if you happen to be in South of the River. Go check out Vintage at South Bank Centre.

Its a 3 day party to celebrate all things Vintage, Film, Art, Fashion, Music etc with 250 sellers at the vintage market.

If you are not already tired of the Sales

2011-07-27T20:51:00.000+01:00

Hot stuff.
What: Mr. Hare
Why: Up to 70 per cent off men’s shoes.
When: Today & Thurs., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Rochelle School & Club Row, Arnold Circus, E2 7ES.
What: Citizens of Humanity and Goldsign
Why: Up to 70 per cent off jeans.
When: Today-Fri., 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: 85 Great Eastern St., 1st flr., EC2A 3HY (020 7739 9292).
What: Sara Berman
Why: Up to 75 per cent off clothing and accessories from past seasons.
When: Today, noon-6 p.m.; Thurs. & Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: James Cameron House, 12 Castlehaven Rd., std. 3, NW1 8QW.
What: Rigby & Peller
Why: Up to 95 per cent off luxury lingerie, swimwear and nightwear.
When: Today, 4-8 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 20th Century Theatre, 291 Westbourne Gr., W11 2QA.
What: Orlebar Brown
Why: Swimwear and T-shirts for men from £25.
When: Fri., noon-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.
Where: The Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Ln., E1 6QL.
What: Jesse’s Threads
Why: Vintage children’s clothes (ages 1-10) from £10.
When: 30 & 31 July. Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Violet Cakes, 47 Wilton Way, E8 3ED (020 7275 8360).
Photo: Siri Stafford / Thinkstock

Ker-splat

2011-07-20T18:41:00.000+01:00

There are Trophy wives, Power wives and then there is Wendi Deng ......she's raised the game. She might start a trend for multi-millionaires to trade in second wives for third wives who can act as a body guard.

See what all the fuss was about HERE

It was a little tricky to find a photo of her without Rupert Murdoch attached to her arm.

Photos from Google Images

You can't touch this

2011-07-18T15:33:00.001+01:00

Sometimes things on Sale are on Sale for a very good reason....

I've been trying to ignore the constant messages from Net a Porter, Flannels, My-Wardrobe etc. for their final sale sale, with extra discounts.

I don't think so but click here to buy if these golden harems float your boat.

Baco foil springs to mind when I look at this Cavalli number.

Of course I am only selecting the worse looking from the Sales. So I do not tempt you to have a look

A Vintage Year

2011-07-15T20:54:00.000+01:00

Less than 4 months to go before I *takes deep breath* turn 40....I'm in good company, 1971 was a good year for Fashion creatives: Julian Macdonald, Matthew Williamson, Stella McCartney to name a few. Plus Mulberry, how I worship at their altar of leather loveliness!

I'm feeling less anxious about this milestone age - see my beauty views on ageing here HERE. And in no way whatsoever am I comparing my self to these lovely ladies who share my birth year....

Did I mention a few months back, I was sat in next door booth to her above? She was having lunch with Paul McCartney. We were at the Dean Street Town House. Coincidentally I was there today for afternoon tea and can highly recommend the Mint ice cream with Pimms jelly.

I want nothing new to wear

2011-07-13T14:21:00.000+01:00

but maybe these.....?

all available from Net a Porter

Year's ago (actually for my 30th birthday - yikes nearly 10 years ago) D and I went to Florence, we ate our body weight on amazing food, visited the art galleries and somehow managed to stuff our suitcase with a heap of Missoni iconic stripy towels. These were marked down in a local sale and we thought they were at a bargain price. This was when the Lira was still the local currency and you had to walk about with a wodge of notes and felt rich as a millionaire, a Lira Millionaire!

When life gets less complicated (children grow older) and hopefully less messy, I still yearn to decorate it and have a home full of zigzags.

Images from Hotel Missoni

RIP zoom zoom zoom

2011-07-07T21:21:00.000+01:00

My car has been taken away, scrapped, discarded, no more good times, no more jolly jaunts around town. It was a faithful machine that I had for more than 7 years. Pre-owned by two careful lady drivers, it always managed to pass its MOT, never stalled and always had a bit of poke when the lights turned green and I could zoom off. But last month it got poorly, wasn't sure why but later found out after a fraughtful trip and back from the garage - It was leaking transmission fluid and needed a new gearbox. The costs would have been more than the actual value of the car. I had such great times in this car, went to so many places, pre-kids, post-kids. We comicly soldiered on stuffing it with car seats pretending we didn't need a bigger car with 3 small children but....now we have to take the deep scary step and think about purchasing a 'Mummy Wagon'. Those of you have seen my Twitter ramblings (go on follow me there) this is a major deal for me. There are no nice ones out there! I might as well drive a bus and be done with my cool factor. How can I go from this (Mazda 323 Executive)? Check out that sporty looking spoiler...

To this?

Now I'm no petrol head but I do catch the occasional Top Gear episode - I've even had a distant relative star in a 'Star in a a Reasonable Priced Car' slot (he was the fastest Welshman on the show).

Look at this horror! I can't stand MPV's, the clunky lines, the massive size *shudders* how do you park this in a supermarket? We rented a VW Touran over the Christmas period, ferrying kids, loaded with presents etc it still wasn't big enough for our needs.

I still have my heart set on owning a Nissan Figaro, my friend Z, gave me first refusal as she was planning selling her one. My heart says yes but my head knows I can only fit in one passenger as the back seat is only good enough for a large handbag. Which child to choose to accompany me on trips out? Decisions, decisions...

Thank you Kate/Polaroid Sun

2011-07-03T12:31:00.000+01:00

Hurrah - I won something! My first ever prize through a Blog competition - Thank you Kate at Make Do Style and Polaroid Sun for my very fetching 50's style sunglasses. With the return of the sunshine I have been wearing these Marilyn sunnies nearly every day. The science bit works, I'm not screwing up my eyes (saving my wrinkles) from the glare of the sun. They are very light to wear on my nose. Perfect pair statement sunglasses that add a real touch of glam to my day. THANK YOU , THANK YOU.

I will stop gushing now....its just I never win anything - OK a little lie, I won a Blu-ray player and 20 blu-ray discs last year but I gave it to my brother cause my TV is so old it was not compatible and didn't have the enough Scart plug thingy to make it work. So I was elated I won but I didn't get to benefit and enjoy the new cinema experience. But these Polaroid sunglasses are a real joy to have won and I'm not going to give them away. They're all mine.
**********************************************************************************
Isn't it annoying when technology moves on? My TV was a wedding present from my dad (9 years ago)- at the time we thought it was the hugest thing ever, So I don't want to get rid of it as it still works and so heavy, the twins can't knock it over. Then science moves onto Plasma screen, LED screens; TV's so thin you can hang on the wall. For Christmas I was given an iPod Touch, so I gave my Nano iPod to Curly Haired Beauty. I remember bouncing on a birthing ball when pregnant with her, singing tunelessly to The Killers. The things you do to get a baby to head down and come out! She's 4 and has her own MP3 player. I was probably in my teens before I owned my own Walkman (remember them?). There are only 40 songs on her playlist. Mostly of the Disney/Musical variety plus Katie Perry's Fireworks song. The other day Mr Fashion wanted to have a go listening and so I popped the headphones on him. He thought he looked the business with these Sony headphones.

I admit he did look super cute but he's 2!!! Will he ever know about computer keyboards and mouses (or is that mices?). Or when he reaches school ages will it all be virtual screens with lots of hand waving to make things move remotely...

If I was a rich man...da da da da da da da da da

2011-06-30T21:02:00.000+01:00

Its Euro Millions Friday drawer tomorrow with an estimated win of 136,000,00 Euros. That's a lot of money and I spent my last bit of spare change (£2) on a lucky dip ticket. Will I be a winner? I shall probably forget to check my numbers and live in ignorance.

But of course if I was lucky enough to be a winner - I could own a lovely little French Chateau style home in Paris - the same one that Audrey Hepburn lived in with her Papa in 'How to Steal a Million'.. One of my all time favorite Audrey movies as it also stars Peter O'Toole - looking so handsome, ever so charming and witty. They really don't make movies like these any more.

Imagine leaving home for work every day from this abode- oh wait I don't need to work, I'm a EuroMillionaire.

Sweeping staircase anyone? Grand hallway perfect to park my bum to rest my weary legs after a hard's day shopping.

Why can't I get my hair to do that?

Isn't this the chicest driving outfit?

These two had so much on-screen chemistry. *Sigh*

Wedding Invite

2011-06-28T21:47:00.000+01:00

Wedding season is in full swing and I have a lovely invite to go to one in late summer. Set in the ruins of Cowdray Ruins the ceremony is being held in the beautiful fragrant walled garden in the style of a Tudor pleasure garden. The bride is going to arrive in a horsedrawn carriage pulled by two grey geldings (apparently mares are too moody!). Its going to be a totally chic celebration with afternoon tea; a proper English cream tea. I cannot wait....Here's hoping the weather stays fine or I will seriously have to pack my hunter wellie boots!

Tonight

2011-06-25T23:31:00.000+01:00

I should be out, getting drunk (wine tab being picked up by someone else), feasting on a good curry - with fellow bloggers. Instead I am home, cleaning up trails of vomit left by the twins. All week they have been taking turns to throw up. Even Fabreeze is not getting rid of the smell.

Normal blogging service will resume once we get over this stomach bug. NB Weetabix with milk looks the same when it comes back up....

Ladies Day at Ascot

2011-06-16T22:20:00.000+01:00

What a deluge today was....I was back in my Barbour Minx coat, trilby hat and Hunter wellie boots. A lot of brave souls still made it to Ladies Day at Ascot, I salute you all for not letting the wet weather spoil your fun.

The best accessory today seemed to be the colourful umbrella.

Next year I will have to stop by James Smith so I am fully prepared for all weathers

Bragging - comes with a warning

2011-06-15T13:36:00.000+01:00

Warning - this is a bragging post of 'Look what I bought', turn away now if you are reining in your spending habit, this will hurt your eyes.....

I've hit a few sample sales and although I tweeted about the haul and uploaded some hazy photos on twitpic, nothing really did justice how amazing some of the bargains I scored so this is a slightly smug in-depth blog post.

When I went to the Browns Secret Pop up Sale, I got the prettiest brightest summer silk dress (it matched my sofa cushions!). I had also tried on a pair of RM by Roland Mouret skinny satin trousers for £70. Now the label said size 8 - and lord thank goodness I wasn't sharing the make-shift changing cubicle because I couldn't get the trouser legs up my thigh, let alone my bum into those trousers. There was a zip up the back so I would have done some serious mooning if I had managed to get both my legs into those damn trousers. I'm not a big girl/woman and my usual size is a UK 8 or sometimes a US 0 (go figure Banana Republic sizing).

Seriously I don't know what size they really were except they were made for a much skinnier person than me! Luckily I don't have any body issues or felt the need to go on a crash diet after not fitting into them. I'm made of sterner stuff and never worry about the actual label number. I have been known to buy jackets or coats in *gasps* size 12, for a better fit across my broad shoulders (thanks dad). Nothing is more important than wearing clothes that fit you properly. You can splash the cash out for the most pricey designer gear but if it don't fit you well, then you won't look polished.

Kinda reminds me of AbFab - Jennifer Saunders character 'Eddy' who was kitted out head to toe in Christian Lacroix but always two sizes smaller. I'm using this as an excuse to show this clip - I loved that show!

Now the Erdem Sale was one of the best ones I ever went too. It was held at the Future Gallery, it was their first sample sale ever; I arrived early keen to get a head start but they were having a few set up problems and did not open the doors dead on 10.30am. I was first in the queue but wasn't allowed in. So I had to go into work (darn those people who pay me a monthly wage) and returned later. I'm so glad I did - it was shame all the silk scarves had sold out as I would dearly have loved a signature colourful printed one.

But after extensive searching through the rails I pulled out a silk Midnight/Mushroom Atalene Top (capped sleeves, nipped in waist with pelmet) and Bell Skirt in Nude Wool (more camel in colour though). £50 for each piece from the AW10 collection. I could never afford/justify to pay the full retail price for one Erdem item; so I felt elated I now own two pieces by a really talented designer.

Some of you may know I studied fashion design and actually learnt to design, pattern cut & sew my own outfits. I was OK but I was no couturier in my finish and my talents didn't really lie in Fashion Design. Which is why I switched over to Fashion Promotion and ended up as a Stylist.

The construction of each piece is amazing, the use of fabric and technique made me all teary eyed and gushy,the skill, the fit, I was going gaga and cooing over it like it was a newborn baby. Actually I probably show more enthusiasm for my wardrobe than for my own children.....hey its hard being a mother to three small children DON'T JUDGE ME. Oh I also look like a total Serious Fashion Goddess. If I rocked up into your drinking den/restaurant/gig you would all stand to attention and salute me. Ah yes in my deluded cold remedy drug induced state I have reached a state of higher consciousness. That Sinutab/Sudofed/Night nurse remedy is working very nicely now...

Anyway back to the fashion stuff. I should have also bought the black wool/cashmere pencil skirt as it was lined in Erderm's silk print. But I refrained as I didn't want to duplicate my wardrobe items - I already own 5 black skirts - did I need a 6th? My only teeny tiny bugbear is the top is hard to take off, with my broad shoulders its not the easiest thing to shimmer off. The way its been made for the tight fit across the torso had me contorting and straining (sweating and panicking).

Summer Sales have started

2011-06-14T13:23:00.000+01:00

I am suffering from a stinky summer cold, my head is cotton woolly and my nose just won't stop running. I have taken all manners of drugs but nothing is working. Poor old me, I will have to go cheer myself up by checking out these smashing Summer sales. Whoopee doo - life has got to be better once I am kitted out in discounted designer threads. I may have a bright red hooter but look new shoes, bags, coat dress etc. etc.

What: Ann Louise Roswald, Queene and Belle and Musa London.
Why: Discounted ready-to-wear, cashmere, silk and handmade sandals.
When: 24 & 25 June. Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: The Toy Factory, 11-13 Corsham St., N1 6DP( 020 7250 1583 ).

The best label for stretchy slouchy T's

What: American Retro, Zoe Tees and My Lovely Jean
Why: Up to 90 per cent off clothes and accessories.
When: 15-17 June. Wed. & Thurs., noon-8 p.m.; Fri., noon-6 p.m.
Where: Brands Apart Showroom, 5a Noel St., W1F 8GE.

What: Les Néréides
Why: Up to 80 per cent off jewellery.
When: 16-19 June. Thurs.-Sat., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Where: 73-75 Monmouth St., WC2E 9DG.

What: The London Accessory Sale
Why: Designer clothes and accessories from See by Chloé, Joseph and more from £10.
When: 17 June. Fri., 1-9 p.m.
Where: The Music Room, 26 S. Molton Ln., W1K 5AB.

Its not all about me, I can get something for the home.

What: Cabbages & Roses
Why: Up to 90 per cent off clothes, housewares and fabrics.
When: 17 & 18 June. Fri., 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 4 Avery Row, W1K 4AL.

What: Monogrammed Linen Shop
Why: Up to 75 per cent off luxury towels, cashmere, linen and nightwear.
When: 17, 18 & 20 June. Fri., Sat. & Mon., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 168-170 Walton St., SW3 2JL.

What: Juliet Dunn
Why: Beachwear, kaftans, summer dresses and accessories from £10.
When: 22 & 23 June. Wed., 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Thurs., 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 93 Cornwall Gds., flat 1, SW7 4AX( 020 7584 1059 ).

I will be the best dressed bod on the beach

What: Melissa Odabash
Why: Up to 70 per cent off ready-to-wear and swimwear for men, women and kids.
When: 30 June & 1 July. Thurs., noon-9 p.m.; Fri., 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: The Music Room, 26 S. Molton Ln., W1K 5AB.

Courtesy of Daily Candy

Jenny Packham Sample Sale

2011-06-13T23:20:00.000+01:00

I loved this dress by Jenny Packham but I don't expect to see this in the sample sale later in the week. I wouldn't even know when I would have an occasion to wear a gown as lovely as this; I don't get many invites to Black Tie event...Mmmm note to self, must start networking harder or find a Prince to marry!

Jenny Packham
Up to 70 per cent off dresses, jewellery, accessories and lingerie.
16 & 17 June. Thurs., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
3a Carlos Pl., Mount St., W1K 3AN( 020 7493 6295 ).

Kane

2011-06-09T21:57:00.000+01:00

For those of you who love a bargain, and who doesn't in these cash strapped times.

Christopher Kane sample sale Friday 10th June 11am - 6pm
Londonewcastle Depot, 1-3 Wenlock Rd., N1 7SL.

Samantha Cameron wearing one of Kane's designs very well.

Incredible Edible Gingerbread House

2011-06-05T23:23:00.000+01:00

Yesterday we went to a fundraiser for Great Ormond Street Hospital held at Brunswick Centre near Russell Square. I took a very excited 4 years old Curly Haired Beauty, 8 year old niece and 7 year old nephew along with SiL. We arrived a little early and joined a queue of other parents/children and was entertained by Mr Candy and Miss Floss - who were at pains to tell us not to eat them out of house and home. It was a lovely build up and got the kids vocals warmed up before they let in a group of us in - hurrah we were in first! We were greeted by the smell of the most delicious gingerbread and a full size house made up of Gingerbread, icing, sweets, chocolates, ice cream cones, you name a sweet treat, it was there - AH-MAZING.

Adults/carers had to stay behind the ribbon fence, this was for small people only!

The Cupcake lawn - look at all those cakes! My nephew guessed the flavour of the cupcake (elephant and lavender) and was presented with a miniature cupcake prize.

Here is the Marshmallow waterfall, and the children were encouraged to use their pinchy fingers and help themselves to the sweets. You can't see the details properly but the edges of the 'waterfall' are Pink Panther wafer biscuits.

Now they are being explained the problems with the 'Jelly Rats' and help was needed to get rid of them as they were eating the house

Fingers at the ready to make a pop noise to turn the Jelly Rats into Popcorn. and lo and behold pop corn comes raining out of the chimney.

Onto the next part - story time with Miss Dipsy. Who is very forgetful and needed help to find her Gingerbread Journal, a big book (look behind you love)

Another fun bit, decorating your own gingerbread man

These didn't last very long, in fact they were scoffed before we left the building. We all had such a lovely time here. The stories, songs and actions were really well done and perfectly suited for the children's participation. Its such a shame we had to leave Mr Fashion and The Foley Artist behind at home with D. But at 2 years old and an attention span of a gnat it would have been impossible to keep them under control. Plus the little/big problem - Egg and Nut allergy is still an issue when 'dining' out.

Summer is here and so are the sales

2011-06-01T17:24:00.000+01:00

Summer has arrived and its glorious today and I'm in the mood to shop. Fantasy shopping on-line is a great fun and I love spending time (hours) on ShopStyle putting a few/many looks together.

But looky here, if you have any spare cash from pay day there are a lot of great sample sales on this month...I am so tempted to check out Erdem's sale and snap up an flirty floral print dress :-)

What: Erdem
Why: Up to 75 per cent off ready-to-wear and shoes. When: Thurs., 1-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.Where: The Future Gallery, 5 Great Newport St., WC2H 7HY.

Samantha Cameron wearing Erdem jewelry at The Royal Wedding

What: Preen by Thornton Bregazzi
Why: Ready-to-wear, shoes and accessories from £5.When: Thurs.-Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Where: Portobello Green, 281 Portobello Rd., W10 5TZ (020 8968 1542).
What: Designer Sales UK
Why: Clothing and accessories for men and women from Rick Owens, Viktor & Rolf, Roberto Cavalli and more from £10.When: Fri., noon-8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.Where: The Music Room, 26 S. Molton Ln., W1K 5AB.
What: French Connection
Why: Clothes, accessories and swimwear from £5.When: Fri., 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.Where: Centro One, 39 Camden St., NW1 ODX (020 7036 7200).
What: Ash
Why: Up to 80 per cent off shoes.When: 6-10 June. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.Where: 77 Great Titchfield St., W1W 6RF (020 7323 1020).
What: Paul Frank Why: Clothing and accessories for men, women and children from £10.When: 6-10 June. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m.Where: Global Apparel Showroom, 12-14 Wilfred St., SW1E 6PL (020 7931 9274).
What: Hermès
Why: Up to 60 per cent off women’s and men’s ready-to-wear and shoes.When: 10 & 11 June. Fri., 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.Where: The Music Room, 26 S. Molton Ln., W1K 5AB (020 7629 8199).
What: Babajaan & Go-British Why: Up to 70 per cent off beachwear, swimwear, dresses and accessories for men and women.When: 11 June. Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.Where: 20th Century Theatre, 291 Westbourne Gr., W11 2QA (020 7229 4179).

Well look at me

2011-05-29T22:58:00.000+01:00

Yep got a email today from someone at work 'fancy seeing you in the Telegraph'...
Go click on the link and see if you can spot me Sunday Telegraph Stella magazine Page 35. Go the the Galleries section "How Old are these Women'

I look great... scratch that, I look bloody great for my age!!! See a lifetime of looking after my skin, no sunbathing, no smoking and spending the cash on the lotions and potions have paid off. Excuse the non-smiling me though, I think I did smile for a couple of shots but they decided to choose this one. I had to do my own hair and make up at the photo shoot and used the following products:

Base
Bourjois Mineral Matte Mousse Foundation Shade 85
Laura Mercier Undercover - Secret Camouflage and secret concealer and loose setting powder
Blush
Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick in Rose
Lips
Clinique Glosswear in Raspberry Jam (no longer available in store, just as well I stocked up on 5 of these)
Eyes
Clinique Cream Shaper Eye Liner in Black Diamond
Dior Mascara Spectacular Volume Intense Black

White shirt from Benetton

With hindsight I wished I had worn more make-up as the strong natural daylight has left me looking more pale than I am.

I showed my seven year old nephew the article, he kept asking me why my photo was in the magazine. I told him I was famous...he looked at me and said 'No You're not, you're my aunt'. Ah bless him for putting me back into place. Now excuse me while I deflate my head.