Category: Fashion

Dubai Diaries; By Day, By Night

January 9, 2022

We’ve finally made it here to Dubai and I can’t quite believe it! After last year’s trip being cancelled due to Covid and much anticipation whether or not we would make it out this January, I’m thrilled to be here on my first holiday in two years. Being a keen traveler and explorer, I’m super excited to be in a city I’ve never been before full of so many glorious and exciting things to do and places to see.

Arriving at 2am, I was surprised to learn how Dubai is in fact a very nocturnal city with many shops and eateries open 24 hours. Following a much needed lie-in, we spent our first day at the Dubai Mall just a quick metro ride away from our hotel.

The mall is vast including all kinds of shops from high street to designer. Outside you find yourself at the foot of the Burj Khalifa towering high above the city skyline upon a backdrop of the stunning water fountain show.

That evening we decided to go for cocktails and dinner at Level 43 Sky Lounge at the very top of the Sheraton Hotel, conveniently located just opposite our hotel The Gevora, the tallest hotel in the world.

At Level 43 we enjoyed wonderful cocktails and dinner overlooking the bustling city just as alive by night as it is by day. I felt like we were in uptown New York sat on that rooftop sipping my Lycheene gazing out over the futuristic cityscape.

I couldn’t resist having the prawn tiger sushi roll for dinner whilst my boyfriend had a classic chicken burger and chips. The vibe was electric with a live DJ and saxophonist, certainly a fabulous way to kick off our first night here in Dubai.

It’s now Sunday evening and we are still a little jet lagged so we’re just taking it easy. Today we went for a stroll along the beach front stopping off at The Four Seasons Hotel Jumeirah Beach for a quick photo opportunity of course.

Walking around the city you realise the incredible amount of wealth here as super car after super car races by. My boyfriends in his element and I can’t get enough of the awesome Jeep Wagons everywhere – current dream car right there!

We’ve only been here less than 48 hours and I’m already loving Dubai and all it has to offer; from cosmopolitan city life to scorching hot sunny beach days, it’s the best of both worlds. We have a jam-packed itinerary over the next week including a desert safari tomorrow and helicopter flight over The Palm on Wednesday… the Dubai diaries have only just begun!

NYE 21; Let Life Unfold

January 2, 2022

And just like that, we find ourselves in 2022! The last year has flown by and I’m so lucky to have had some amazing things happen over the past 12 months including moving into our wonderful new house, buying my Mini Cooper and changing jobs too.

Looking back on my goals for 2021, I’m proud to say I’ve achieved most of these or at least made a big step towards them. I managed to squeeze in my tattoo at the end of the year and we are very excited to be jetting off to Dubai next week. Many of these are still a working progress and so I will take them with me into the new year, especially my goal of finding balance in life and reading more books which I’m really enjoying.

We kept our NYE celebrations fairly low key this year as we are being cautious of catching Covid before travelling next week. My parents hosted a lovely dinner, so we were able to spend some quality time with my Grandad who I hadn’t seen for a few years, and my American cousins who were over for the holidays. My mum put together a fabulous spread of canapés followed by a prawn linguine for dinner. The bubbles were flowing and at midnight we popped the champagne before the guys let off some fireworks. A fantastic evening with my awesome family!

New Years Day me and my boyfriend were fairly hungover so we indulged in an extra long lie in until noon. That evening we decided to get out of the house and go to the picturesque town of Farnham for a cute date night dinner.

We went to one of our favourite restaurants Cote and enjoyed a lovely meal together. I had the Chicken Paillard Salad served with French beans, hazelnuts, endive, lettuce and croutons in a creamy caper dressing, whilst my boyfriend had the Poulet Breton half a chicken served with frites. As always the food was delicious and the service so friendly and attentive, we’re never disappointed at Cote.

Tummies full and satisfied, we went for a walk around the stunning streets of Farnham still twinkling with the festive season lights. Back home I made us a little cheeseboard for desert and we watched the fabulous film classic, The Great Gatsby.

Upon reflection, it’s been another exciting and blessed year in my life which I am so very grateful for. I hope 2022 brings more fun adventures, laughter, happiness and joy as I aim to let life unfold without too much of a plan at this stage… what will be will be. Cheers to the New Year!

A Very Merry Christmas

December 27, 2021

Merry Christmas! I was so happy to be reunited with my family this year and celebrations were in full swing for the occasion. Me and my boyfriend began the day with present opening by the tree for the first Christmas morning in our gorgeous new home.

I then got dressed up and ready for the festivities in my little green peter pan dress from Topshop, sheer tights, long boots and a cute new beret from Urban Outfitters.

Family celebrations were kicking off at midday over at my parent’s house. Champagne popped, Christmas songs playing and we were ready for the starter of marinated figs, rocket, mozzarella, parma ham and a honey mustard dressing – exquisite!

It was so great to be in the company of my brother and his wife on Christmas Day following last year’s scuppered plans due to Covid. Thankfully this year we all tested negative and could even have my wonderful Grandma join us for the day too.

Everyone was busy in the kitchen helping with preparations for the big roast dinner, whilst my Dad was mostly outside seeing to his pride and joy for the day, the BBQ turkey! An unconventional method of cooking the bird on a winter’s day in England, but I have to admit it does result in the most succulent meat.

Our late lunch/early dinner was served at 4:30pm and as usual my mum dished up an absolute feast. I just love all the delicious vegetable accompaniments with a roast, my favourite being the red cabbage, honey roasted carrots and not forgetting the brussel sprouts. My brother even did a homemade cauliflower cheese which was divine and stole the show this year!

With bellies full and very satisfied indeed, we sat around the table playing games before more present opening by the tree. I received some fantastic gifts and really enjoyed giving our presents this year too. My mum always pulls some little surprises out of the bag also, and this year she didn’t disappoint with a beautiful 60s style vintage handbag and coffee table book Fashion In Film which I’m obsessed with.

I do feel incredibly blessed and grateful our family could be altogether this year. It was the perfect day full of fun, laughter and love surrounded by the stars of my life.

Cheers to health, happiness and a very Merry Christmas ❤

Stay Wild Moonchild; My First Ink

December 26, 2021

‘If you can’t stop thinking about it, don’t stop working towards it.’ I’ve been considering getting this tattoo for quite a few years now and so I decided it was time to go for it. Not to mention it was also a New Year’s resolution for this year to get it done, so it was very fitting to get inked just before we say goodbye to 2021.

The moon and the stars constantly fascinated me in their glorious mysteriousness and beauty. I’ve always been a bit of night thinker too and I like to consider the moon as my driving force when these late night inspirations come to me. More than anything, it’s the unknown possibilities and curiosity I have for the galaxy above and beyond our realms of existence which is so bewildering and thrilling.

Following research to find a suitable tattooists who could create the crescent moon shape upon my wrist, I decided to book an appointment at the boutique jewellery shop Astrid & Miyu in London which specialises in these fine-line tattoos. Originally my best friend was going to join me on this little adventure, but unfortunately increased risks with Covid meant she had to reluctantly cancel.

So last Thursday 23rd December, I ventured up on the train to London town on my own determined to get my tattoo still. Avoiding public transport, I walked over Waterloo bridge through Covent Garden and over to Carnaby Street where my 3pm appointment was booked. It went so smoothly and I have to say didn’t hurt one bit!

It was quite the adrenaline rush as I let this stranger ink me for life. Needless to say though, I’m over the moon with my first little tattoo and very happy I decided to just go for it considering how long I’ve wanted this. It’s only tiny and discrete, but this subtle, refined design is very me and suits my style just right. I love that every time I look at my crescent moon I’ll be reminded of one of my favourite short quotes- ‘Stay Sane, Stay Wild.’

Festive Movie Moment; Winchester Xmas Markets

December 19, 2021

It’s one week until Christmas and I’m feeling those warm fuzzy festive vibes! This weekend we wrapped up in our winter coats to visit the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Markets and I couldn’t help but get excited by the glistening lights twinkling by night all over the city.

The Cathedral looked magnificent all lit up as we enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the markets whilst we sipped a warming cup of mulled wine.

The streets of Winchester were just beautiful showered in gold fairy lights and I got that leading lady movie moment feeling as me and my boyfriend explored the city in all its glory.

With 8:30pm reservations at The Ivy, we stumbled upon an awesome bar called Overdraft where we enjoyed some pre-dinner drinks.

Arriving at The Ivy, we were escorted to our table amongst the wonderfully eclectic and intricate interiors which make this place so iconic, I’m obsessed!

The atmosphere was buzzing on a Saturday night and the festive cheer was in full swing. We got started with a few Christmas cocktail specials, so I had a Candyfloss concoction served in a champagne flute with a side of pink floss.

As well as the fabulous decor and lovely service, our meals were just as spectacular. I opted for the roasted butternut squash served with buckwheat, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, sesame and pomegranate with crumbled feta cheese, harissa sauce and coriander dressing. My boyfriend had the classic beef burger which I had a taste of too and can confirm was equally exquisite as my own delicious dish.

A final stroll through the picturesque streets of Winchester before we cosied up in the warmth of the car for the journey home. What a perfect date night getting in the festive mood and feeling like we were on set starring in our very own romantic Christmas movie…*Cue The Holiday soundtrack* ❤

When One Door Closes…

December 5, 2021

It goes without saying that if something doesn’t feel right in your life, it’s time to make a change. Whether it’s work, friends or living situation, you have the power to switch things up to find what makes you happy. Without getting too deep and philosophical, I truly believe that once you put the intention to end something out into the world, another door will open and present new opportunities.

I’ve recently made a difficult decision in my career and already there are exciting prospects on the horizon. At the end of the day, life is just too short to be spent doing something which doesn’t bring you happiness; I think that if the passion is lost then it’s time to do something different.

As the famous quote says, ‘Life begins at the end of your comfort zone’. Listen to your gut feeling, take a deep breath, and go make that change!

This weekend I celebrated my news with a fabulous pornstar martini cocktail at The Botanist – Cheers to living life on your own terms ❤

Life’s Funner in Leopard Print

November 7, 2021

With it being my mum’s birthday this weekend, the whole family came together to celebrate in style at a local gig and I couldn’t wait to get on my dancing shoes ready to dance the night away! I wore my split hem leggings and let the leopard print blouse and fur coat do the talking. To complete the look, I chose my lace-up maroon croc heels and matching dark brown croc 90s style handbag, along with my favourite gold jewellery pieces for extra glam points. Simple yet classic, leopard print is always a vibe and never fails to add a hint of sassy playfulness to any outfit…now let’s pop the bubbly and go hit that dance floor!

Boozy Bottomless Brunch & Bongo’s Bingo; Let’s Dance!

October 24, 2021

The girls were back in town this weekend and we went full out with a boozy bottomless brunch at Lantana Cafe in Shoreditch, followed by a crazy night dancing on the tables at Bongo’s Bingo in London Bridge. There’s nothing like letting your hair down with your besties!

To kickoff our weekend in London, we had 2pm reservations at Lantana Cafe. Serving the renowned delicacies of Aussie brekky with the option to go bottomless on prosecco too, it was the perfect setting for catching up with the girls over good food and plenty of booze. I chose to have the corn fritters stacked with halloumi, spinach, roast tomato, smashed avocado and lemon creme fraiche – it was absolutely exquisite!

We all went for something different and thoroughly enjoyed our brunch dishes; it was clear plates all-round. The bubbles continued to flow and we certainly made the most of our 90 minute bottomless brunch deal.

After a tipsy tube journey back to my friend’s flat in Islington, it was time to get ready for the night ahead. Another bottle of prosecco and dancing outfits on, we were ready for an evening of craziness at Bongo’s Bingo!

I’d heard of this event before and seen the hectic videos online, but nothing could’ve prepared us for the madness of our night which unfolded. Wacky prizes, cheesy tunes and a hall full of drunken Brits…Bongo’s Bingo is a truly unique event not for the faint hearted.

Arriving at our table, we were greeted with the warning sign – ‘Dance on the benches at your own risk’. Of course everyone jumps up and has a good boogy on their benches every time a tune plays and the lucky few win their prizes. My best friend even won £100 cash!

I learn the hard way though as I left the bingo with a few war wounds following my clever decision to wear heels and dance on the benches, also slippery from the drinks spilt everywhere. Nevertheless, it was worth it for the memories made and hilarious stories to be told!

Our night-out ended classic style with a trip to Maccy D’s, before we all headed back to my friend’s for late night food, drinks, chats and giggles in her bedroom. What more could you want? Ladies, cheers to the next one!

LUSH Event; Seasons Surrey

September 26, 2021

Seasons Kitchen, Farm Shop & Street Food at Lavershot Barns, brings together fabulous food and drink all wrapped up in one unique experience. From organic, locally sourced produce used to create the Restaurant and Street Food menus, to the bespoke designers from Lush Landscapes and on site florist at Lilys Flowers, Seasons Surrey is your one-stop weekend destination to unwind, shop and dine in style.

With an invite to a private event hosted this Friday by Lush Landscapes, I was lucky enough to experience Surrey’s latest hotspot for an after work cocktail accompanied with some delicious street food too. Kicking off with a glass of bubbly, we explored the gorgeous grounds designed by the team at Lush Landscapes; how idealic to sit in front of this chic fire pit with a glass of prosecco as the sun went down over the farm.

As the saxophone played into the evening, we took our seats at our table and ordered some street food from the extensive menu inspired by worldwide cuisine. From a healthy Chinese dragon rice bowl, to a German hotdog and Greek lamb flatbread, there was something for everyone. I opted for the plant based American style burger with fries – a classic which certainly didn’t disappoint.

Once the sun went down, the Ministry of Sound DJ took to the decks and I was feeling those Ibiza vibes as we sipped our cocktails amongst such gorgeous surroundings. I’m already planning our next trip to Seasons Surrey to browse some special treats in the Farm Shop and of course sample their Michelin star Restaurant.

Thank you Lush Landscapes for hosting such a wonderful event! Visit Seasons Surrey and explore all that they have to offer for yourself here – https://www.seasonssurrey.co.uk

Staycation Vacation

September 19, 2021

Whilst I would much rather be writing about a holiday abroad to sunny Ibiza right now, I have had a lovely weekend staycation just relaxing and chilling out enjoying quality time with my boyfriend. And although on this occasion we’ve had to stay in the UK, we have now rebooked our trip to Dubai early next year, as well as getting tickets for an Ocean Alley gig in March and Secret Garden Party festival next summer with the girls!

Following an intense and busy first five months at my new job as a PA, it was certainly time for a well deserved proper break. Taking a long weekend holiday from work, me and my boyfriend booked for a night’s stay at a local spa hotel which we had a gift voucher for, bonus!

The Crowne Plaza in Reading East is a 4 star hotel featuring a stunning spa, gym, cocktail bar and a 2AA rosette restaurant and terrace. Arriving in the early afternoon on Friday, we made the most of the hotel facilities and headed straight for the gym and pool.

After a steam in the sauna and dip in the pool, it was time to head back to the room and get ready for drinks and dinner. I felt like getting a little dressed up for our dinner date in this backless leopard print blouse, black wrap mini skirt and my gorgeous smoky blue square toe mules – the perfect opportunity to wear these towering stilettos as it was only room to bar in a matter of a few steps!

Starting in Monty’s Bar & Lounge, we had an aperitif before our dinner reservations at 8pm in the Caprice Restaurant. And as part of our gift voucher we had a full three course dinner and glass of fizz each all included.

I started with the Super Salad; a delicious flavour combination of spinach, charred tender-stem broccoli, quinoa, chia seeds, candied walnuts, pickled wild mushroom, golden raisins and an avocado ranch dressing. My boyfriend had the Chicken Satay served with peanut sauce, lime gel and watercress.

For our main course I opted for the Cod Fillet on a bed of mash potato accompanied with samphire, cucumber spring onion and Verjus Beurre Blanc. This dish was absolutely exquisite and cooked to perfection, I couldn’t fault it. My boyfriend also really enjoyed his classic Sirloin Steak with cherry tomatoes and triple cooked chips.

To finish the meal I had a simple fruit platter with a refreshing sorbet and delicate sweet chocolate soil. The warm chocolate brownie served with white chocolate and pistachio ice cream was my boyfriend’s desert of choice. Needless to say, we both cleaned our plates and went to bed feeling content and satisfied from such a fantastic three course dinner at Caprice Restaurant.

After a nice long sleep, we awoke rested and ready for the the weekend ahead. I went for a quick gym session before we headed down for brekky at 10:30am. I do love a hotel breakfast buffet and this one didn’t disappoint. The fruit salad and pineapple was so fresh and I was set for the day following a yummy little bowl of granola with all that fruit! My boyfriend opted for a full English which from the happy look on his face, was also very good indeed 🙂

So despite not jetting off abroad this summer, I was grateful for some timeout from work and an indulgent little staycation at a lovely hotel with my boyfriend. I am super excited to have some holiday plans and events in the diary for next year now, but this relaxing weekend without the stress of travelling was actually just what I needed to recharge my batteries.

I may have been in cloudy old England, but here I am envisioning Ibiza and manifesting future holiday plans to come…my moto is ‘go to bed with a dream, wake up with a purpose.’ ❤