Sunday 22 May 2011

Summer Summer Summer Time....

Summer is fast approaching and I jet off to the states in about 4 weeks which I am very much looking forward to, don't worry I shall technically still be working so expect lots of blog posts from across the pond.  I am also pleased to say that the Tubberfly Vintage website is coming along ready to launch in June now (fingers crossed) - so please keep your eyes peeled for updates. 

Having frequented quite a few beauty counters recently and with all the summer limited editions hitting the stores around about now I thought I'd do my very own 'Top Picks For The Summer'. 


Amazing Concealer - A product highly recommended from my mother who swears it covers all imperfections all day and provides full yet natural coverage. 

I probably have the whole Barry M collection but my favourite for the summer has to be Coral - it's bright with high pigment, a professional finish and lasts 7 days.

If like me you want that newly washed hair feeling everyday without having to wash it daily then Batiste Dry Shampoo works wonders, I put it on overnight to avoid the 'grey hair' look you often get with it.

I have been addicted to these for years, unfortunately the click sticks aren't available in the UK so I get bulk supplies from the US.  Guaranteed lip conditioner and perfect primer for lipstick. 

Limited Edition Cherry Blossom leaves a gorgeous floral scent even after a few hours of wear.  Delicate florals and very feminine.


Nars Limted Edition Blush Bronzer Trio - All my favourite Nars blusher products in one compact - Orgasm, Albatross and a highlighter  


Righteous Body Butter - Aside from the amazing smell this is an impressive non greasy body butter rich in moisture and lasts all day.

Viva Glam, Lady Gaga Limited Edition - After searching high and low for this I eventually found it in the US.  It's an incredibly versatile shade although it's not very long lasting.

Limited Edition Lip Glass Wonderwoman - Apart from the appealing packaging Mac's lipglass does last all day and this shade definitely adds drama.  Mac's glosses do come sticky but they are definitely worth it.
Would love to hear about your top picks and shall definitely be doing a men's fashion blog soon (I realise this is slighty biased). 

xoxo
 

Monday 2 May 2011

Fit For A Princess

It's been yet another enjoyable 4 day weekend, I tried to use it constructively but have once again ended up building sleep debt, partying, shopping and of course witnessing one of the most beautiful Royal weddings.  I wouldn't necessarily class myself as a royalist but I do enjoy watching the perfection of pomp and ceremony when it comes to the British Royal family. 

Not surprisingly the media has been busy critiquing the outfits worn by the wedding guests and Kate Middleton's 'fit for a princess' wedding gown created by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen.  The princess said she chose McQueen for the 'beauty of its craftsmanship' and I couldn't agree more especially as it was also vintage-inspired. 

Take a look at my favourite vintage gowns chosen by royalty




Queen Elizabeth 1947 - Gown designed by Norman Hartnell made of ivory silk

Grace Kelly Princess Consort of Monaco 1956 - Gown designed by Helen Rose - absolutely beautiful

Jaqueline Kennedy 1953 - Gown designed by Anne Lowe

Princess Diana 1981 - Gown designed by David Emanuel

Elizabeth Taylor 1950 - Dress was a gift from MGM studios - an actress blessed with Princess looks

I expect these designers all felt that their own fairytale was brought to life when their gowns were debuted and that's one of the greatest things about fashion - you can build confidence, express yourself and feel like a princess (or prince) whenever you want.  This is something I think Alexander McQueen was doing when creating his amazing gowns and I think he would be very proud of Sarah Burton's beautiful creation for the Duchess of Cambridge. 

I couldn't end this post without taking a look at some the most amazing creative styling I have ever seen from the late Lee Alexander McQueen CBE:


Lace creation worn famously by the wonderful Lady Gaga

From the 2008 Fall collection - Royal blue ballet inspired dress

2009 - Dramatic and demure with great structure


Romantic florals - the detail, colours and design is incredible

Oyster Dress - Famously inspired from a shipwreck


XOXO