Liv Purvis's Blog, page 14

An afternoon at Stourhead

  What is it about a National Trust property that either sends me into period-drama induced frenzy, or pulling out my ‘all-gear-no-idea’ pensioner on holiday hiking gear? When Carrie mentioned that a visit to Stourhead would ideally make the birthday itinerary, we didn’t even need to revisit a certain rain scene from Pride and Prejudice before we’d packed our prairie dresses and pre-booked our slot for visiting (after all this is lockdown 2020, and not the late 1700s)…

And honestly- it was the perfect way to while away an afternoon before the weather changed its mind and graced us with the British-style summer we’d anticipated (even if we were only armed with picnic blankets as very makeshift umbrellas).

Whilst the house may have been currently closed, the grand landscape gardens on the estate (which in total stretch over 2,650-acres) were ready and welcome for us to explore- and with the blessing of a little sunshine and sensible shoe choices, we were more than happy to slowly explore the beautiful bucolic landscapes (perhaps whilst doing our best Lizzy, Jane and Kitty impressions too).

 

 

One of the special things about Stourhead is the complete variety of landscapes and scenes you’re likely to stumble across whilst trailing around the grounds. Although there are a handful of views that you may possibly be already familiar with; including The Pantheon and Temple of Apollo- we also stumbled across the rather magical hidden grotto nestled next to the water and seemingly endless pockets hidden around the lake that made for the prettiest picnic backdrop (with a few little puddle ducks joining us for crackers and bread- who can blame them)? Plus, with booking times allocated, nothing ever felt too busy or overrun, meaning you could safely soak up the sights without ever bumping into crowds of people.

It would be incredibly easy to spend a whole day soaking up the views and sights of Stourhead, and although we managed to take it in over a few hours (with picnic time included)- I can’t recommend adding a visit here to your list of things to do whilst in Somerset. I can only imagine how beautiful it looks in the autumn and winter when the seasonal colours change- and truly feel that it’s somewhere that is completely magical no matter the weather or season…

 

 

 

*affiliate links used

(Sunglasses: Monki*, Dress: Alexa Chung (press sample), Boots: & Other Stories* (press sample)

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A Somerset Staycation

  I feel like this summer is the summer of the staycation; just as much of a holiday as any other, but I feel like for many of us discovering what’s on our doorsteps has taken on a new magic- and trying to embrace the ‘stones-throw-stays’ and cosy bolt holes has been a small relief in the midst of everything going on.

Having only ever visited Somerset a couple of times previously (including a couple of memorable Glastonbury’s and a wintry family holiday to Taunton)- it was somewhere high up on my list to see more of.

Thankfully, with my dear pal Carrie turning 30- she proposed a visit with Lucy and I to her birth place to celebrate, and a few days of winding country roads, sloping high streets, neighing horses on our front step and maybe a little camping to bring us back to nature too.

Starting our weekend in the beautifully quaint village of Mells, we hopped off the train and drove over for a leisurely lunch at The Talbot Inn– a quintessentially cosy British pub- with tapered candles; fireplaces and a menu of delicious pub classics- meaning a Ploughman’s order with fish and chips were top of the menu.

 

 

 

Outside, the streets were lined with cobbled houses, street side crockery being sold and a gorgeous walled garden and café- which made Mells all the more beautiful- and a very lovely first pit stop for our weekend.

Mells to visit:

The Talbot Inn – For cosy classic pub grub and a lovely place to shelter from the weather

Walled Garden Cafe – Gorgeous views, gardens and a lovely nursery and café.

Following lunch we headed across to Frome (which, after much learning and ‘scone’ ‘scon’ like conversations, is pronounced like ‘froom’ not ‘Rome with an F’)- somewhere I’d heard so many wonderful things about from Carrie- and the perfect place to while away an afternoon browsing the shops on Catherine Hill and making entirely necessary cake-stops along the way.

  A few places to note in Frome:

Studio Ashay – Beautiful handmade and in-house designed garments

Poot Emporium – Selection of vintage pieces, with some gems to be found

Frome Hardware – Traditional home wares and small interiors additions

Pilea – Two words: house plants.

Resident – Everything from lifestyle and clothing with the most beautiful brands.

Kobi & Teal – For colour, design and original art work in the coolest space.

Rye Bakery – For a post-hill cake stop in the most stunning setting.

Carrie also has a more thorough guide here!

 

Our final stop for our busy first day in the West Country, was to set up camp at the charming Mollie’s Hut, a stones throw away from the town centre. Now, I feel like I can’t keep saying I’m ‘camping’ when it looks like this (and this)- but there was something gloriously authentic about spending a night cosied up on a paddock in a beautiful smallholding- with only the sound of neighbouring horses and sheep keeping us company.

 

 

Arriving to a fluffy homemade cake, the friendly farm dogs and nearby stable kitchen filled with fresh breakfast supplies, we popped on our warmest knits, fuelled our fire, and spent the evening chatting, cooking our barbeque and filling up hot water bottles for the night ahead.

Having an inside kitchen and bathroom proved very useful when the weather perhaps wasn’t on our side when it came to crisping up our sausages (princess Purvis over here), but thankfully made for a warm spot to tuck into dinner at the table and have a (not so quiet) sing-along as we washed up afterwards and tucked into the cake for dessert.

It was the perfect start to our weekend in the country, and despite a few grey clouds and some beautifully British drizzle the next morning- set us up perfectly for the next few days of exploring…

 

x

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A Night at Camp Hoxton: The Perfect Staycation

  *press stay- but all opinions and big outdoorsyness my own.
Having not properly left the cushioned comforts of London’s amorous Zone 4 since March, the excitement of getting away for a night this week felt unparalleled.

I don’t think I’d quite realised how much I’d missed the luxury of travel and spending the night between a different four walls (or no walls in this instance), but even the buzz of rolling my toothbrush into some toilet paper for the night and checking my straighteners were off one, two, three times before we stepped out the door- were both things I’d surprisingly missed.

Anyway, on the agenda was a night at The Hoxton’s countryside set-up, Camp Hoxton– in Hoxfordshire (f.k.a Oxfordshire to you and I)- an hour away from London’s Paddington station, and nestled away in the grounds of the rather regal Eynsham Hall (which is currently closed for refurbishment, which definitely makes it feel like you’re stomping around your very own grounds for the evening). The set up consists of 12 bell tents, each equipped with their own ‘patio’ barbecue area, festoon lights and hugely welcome private toilet and shower- as well as a Hoxton-away-from-Hoxton check in tent, with a lobby set up to rival even the comforts of their Southwark residence.

Now, I’ve had a bit of a tumultuous relationship with camping. Having joyfully camped at rainy Reading festivals, spent seven days under the sun at Benicassim in a tent where everything felt like a sauna- and a handful more U.K festival experiences that range from open-air long drops in the rain to mild tent flooding- I’ve had my fair share of tent pitching and unglamorous camping experiences. Which is why this feels wholly different- and much more like a relaxing break and hotel-in-nature experience than it does a traditional camping trip- and in a very good and spoiling way indeed.

Maybe it’s the (slightly) pathetic Londoner in me that likes to feel ‘rural’ and ‘outdoorsy’ but whose camping experience looks like rattan and mid-century furniture with a Robert’s radio next to the bed- and if that is me, than so be it- because I would do this again and again (and again). Sometimes it’s nice to enjoy something slightly different (or outside of your ‘comfort zone’ if you’re a serial bricks and mortar gal) and still enjoy life’s little luxuries too. Because that’s what a proper holiday is supposed to feel like, isn’t it?

 

 

 

Anyway- after checking in, importantly finding Gold radio, dropping our bags off- we swiftly took advantage of the bikes on site, and pootled around the grounds – witnessing several weather conditions in the hour and also catching sight of how beautiful the location truly is. With your only neighbours being the chattering of sheep in nearby fields- it truly feels like you’re in the heart of the countryside.

 

 

Although Joe and I both agreed that if you were driving you’d definitely be able to utilize the beautiful surroundings and attractions more (you’re a stones throw away from Oxford, and so many beautiful surrounding pubs and quaint villages that are worth extending your stay for)- it was easy enough using local cab firms to and from the station- and we were also assured the cycle to some of the local pubs was straightforward too (even if you’re a bit of a… cautious cyclist like yours truly).

Thankfully, if you’re happy to stay put in your tent, you’re also able to order a food box to your door- whether that’s a BBQ banquet or happy campers breakfast box- everything is taken care of as much (or as little) as you’d like it to be- meaning that whether you’re well versed in your tent etiquette or can’t tell your sleeping bags from designer bags, you’ll be truly looked after at Camp Hox. Scouts honour.

Unfortunately tents at Camp Hoxton are currently all sold out, but head here to keep an eye on any updates, last minute changes and for anything else they’re working on (because you know it’ll be good).

x

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My ‘At Home Hair Salon’ Experience Heroes

  *contains affiliate links and press samples
Over lockdown I’ve gone from being the proud owner of a choppy bob, to an equally proud owner of a slightly grown out shapeless style which I’m equally fond of.

Admittedly it’s come with a few greys, plenty of split ends and less shine than I began with- but hey, it could be worse- and I’m pretty lucky the ‘growing out’ process has just been… well, my hair growing.

But! With hairdressers trips on hold, I’ve been trying to take a little more care of what’s up there than before. I’m not much of a masker, and shamefully heat protectant often goes untouched- but with six months of no trim ups, or deep conditions pre-cut, it was about time I started making a little more r&r time for my barnet.

So with that I thought I’d share a few of the wonder workers that have been in my hair arsenal over the last few months- in terms of styling it’s all been the wonderful Polly technique (which I know I’ll bodge up recreating, so enjoy her wonderful video)!

Kerastase Genesis Range*
(have worked with as a partner)

I’d very much understand you thinking I’m biased having recently spoken about this range as part of a paid project, but starting with a disclaimer- I’m not obliged to talk about it any more than over on the grid, but I frankly must because the range has changed my hair game, and honestly- I’m incredibly excited to be chatting about it.

As someone with fine hair (but a fair amount of it), one of my main concerns is breakage and fall- often when I’m showering with knotty hair I see the most damage, and when you haven’t got a thick head of hair, looking after it is always pretty high up on the list.

This shampoo and conditioner have been absolute superstars when it comes to gently nourishing and looking after my barnet- I always feel like I’ve had my hair washed at a salon after using them (i.e no leftover texture/greasiness which I’ve found with SO many products no matter how much I rinse) and my hair has felt in far better nick since using them from the start of the year. For any fellow fine-haired guys and gals, I can’t recommend this power duo enough. Cue Invisible Touch by Genesis…

 

  Pureology Hydrate Range*

Another shampoo range that always gets a tick from me is the Hydrate range from Pureology- not only does it smell delicious (the conditioner is minty and always gives me a true shut-eye dreamy experience) but it truly helps any brittleness and dryness, which, for someone who is slack with heat protecting (I promise I will be better) always feels like such a treat.

It’s another duo that is 10/10 for true-purifying clean washes, and although it’s certainly not necessary to spend an arm and a leg on your shampoo and conditioner, when going to the hairdressers is off limits, sometimes going in for something a little more indulgent is worth the while.

Odacite Shampoo Bar *

Now, I’m pretty new to the shampoo bar game- but have always loved the idea of saving on packaging if I can find a product that cuts the mustard. Thankfully Odacite (home of some brilliant skincare too), have delivered a pretty top notch round with their number- and I’ve been seriously impressed since using it. Retailing at £27 for the full size it’s not cheap, but seeing as it’s meant to last the equivalent of three bottles of high quality shampoo- it should be seeing you well into the new year and then some. It lathers up beautifully, and my hair always feels incredibly clean and full of volume, which always gets two ticks from me- and no plastic either- win, win!

  Living Proof Dry Shampoo*

I’m constantly on the hunt for the best dry shampoos to try and extend my time in-between washes- and as well as loving the Klorane Dry Shampoo* (which is very price friendly and efficient), I’ve also discovered the infamous Living Proof Dry Shampoo which is pretty excellent indeed. Arguably God Tier of dry shampoos, it’s got ‘Triple-Action Cleaning Technology’ (which I’m not sure what it means but YOU CAN TELL) and could probably clean stubborn oven trays if you gave it the time. It’s truly a best friend to any greasy barnet, and I’m hoping that with a bit of persistence I might one day be the kind of woman that doesn’t have to wash her hair every day. Maybe- I’ll keep you updated…

Elnett Volume Flat Hair Hairspray

And the finishing touch! Although I don’t ask Joe to spray my hair for an ACTUAL salon experience, this hairspray is a total classic for a reason. It adds shine, hold and has no crispiness (a texture I was very familiar with from the ages of about 15-20) which makes for a pretty good all rounder if you ask me. I don’t like a lot of hairspray any more (which younger Liv would definitely gasp at), but this is great for subtle volume and movement without losing any of your styling as a result. x

x

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The Monthly Playlist: July

  Although I’ve been busy pottering away monthly over on Spotify, it’s been a while since I’ve shared one of my monthly playlists (with more specific ‘Lockdown Listens‘ taking priority over the funny last few months)…

Anyway! To start your weekend, I thought I’d share some of the songs I’ve had on repeat over the last 31 days. Joe recently acknowledged that he does tend to hear the same things played again and again- but it’s because when I come across, or rediscover something I love, it is ALL I WILL PLAY (which is why making playlists serves me so well).

These playlists take me back to certain points in the month- small moments or afternoons at my desk, car drives with my brother in the country and lazy afternoons in the garden. This month is a real mix of some golden oldies (I am a seventies radio DJ thank you for asking, and yes that is Barry Blue on the playlist) and some newer discoveries- and I hope you enjoy repeating it as much as I have…

Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds – There She Goes My Beautiful World
Talking Heads – Road To Nowhere
David Bowie – Oh You Pretty Things
Melody Gardot – Morning Sun
The Velvet Underground – There She Goes Again
The Cure – In Between Days
David Bowie – Fill Your Heart
Arlo Parks – Black Dog
Babeheaven – Seabird
The Alessi Brothers – Oh Lori
Phoebe Bridgers – Kyoto
HAIM – Los Angeles
King Gizzard & The Wizard Lizard – Pop In my Step
 Tame Impala – Sundown Syndrome

 

15. Molly Burch – I Adore You

16. The Sure Fire Soul Ensemble – Impeach The President

17. King Gizzard & The Wizard Lizard – Honey

18. Laura Marling – Daisy

19. Barry blue – (Dancin’) On A Saturday Night

20. Pavement – Harness Your Hopes

21. Joy Mumford – The One

22. Johnny Flynn – Home & Dry

23. The Murlocs – Promblematic Subject

24. June Carter Cash – Time’s A Wastin’

25. Elvis Presley, Ann Margret – The Lady Loves Me

x

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My Favourite Vintage Pieces & Vintage Sourcing Tips

  More often than not, nowadays when I spot a gap in my wardrobe- vintage will be the first solution I head to for filling it…

More than ever, I’ve fallen in love with the chase, the fact things are one of a kind (although apparently I’m quite impressive in hunting down replicas if anybody is looking) and the fact these pieces carry a past, or a special story with them. Sometimes that’s all a bit rose tinted (the other side are the moth holes, antique-y smells that seemingly won’t budge and sizing that feels incredibly dated indeed)- but all in all, finding something one of a kind with a history of it’s own is very satisfying indeed.

So, today I thought I’d share with you a few of my most treasured pieces, where I found them and some of my favourite tips for digging out your own new old favourite pieces too…

The 1969 Biba Mini

In all honesty, this feels more like a piece of history than it does something to parade around the house in- and truly, putting it on I worried I’d damage it (it’s definitely a rare item that’ll be more for hanging up than it will be for dancing in). In fact, after I saw it in Joli Vintage in Greenwich, hanging up behind the counter- I wanted to know more and had fallen in love before I even know if the mini shorts that came with it would even get over my bum (tmi? They barely did).

Anyway- I took to Google and found that the V&A have one in storage as part of their archived collections and the rest was history. On their website it says, ‘This dress appeared in the Summer 1969 mail order catalogue. Marion Kite, an art school student, wore the dress for special occasions in London, and also on holiday in Cornwall.’ (Who sounds like my kind of woman)!

Although part of the joy of vintage is giving life to something old, sometimes there are pieces that are too special to leave behind, but almost too special to wear too- although it’s not something I try and do often, this is definitely something I’ll be saving for best.

 

 

The Silver Mini* 
(*bought with a gift voucher)

One thing I love about vintage is how much fun you can have whilst browsing. So often I’ve stumbled across pieces that I’m like, ‘THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT MY DREAM DRESS LOOKS LIKE’- with design elements and features we so rarely see on the high street nowadays. Silver lurex with a silk bow and pleats?! Sign me up, buttercup! Sometimes I do get carried away, perhaps like I did with this piece and just imagined having a good old boogie in it (unsure where- I didn’t quite get that far)- and before I knew it I’d hit ‘order’ on Rokit and it was here. Thankfully, if anything it’ll be the dress that holds me accountable to actually getting a good dance in- even if that’s just in my bedroom for now…

The 1930’s dress…

This is one of my most recent purchases, and a dress I completely fell head over heels for. The last thing my wardrobe was crying out for was a ‘30s Peter Pan collared embroidered dress (which definitely needs a slip underneath if you plan on wearing it anywhere other than at home)- but it is magic.

The pleats, the sheer floral water-like fabric and the statement collar completely sucked me in- and I found it whilst doing a quick scroll of one of my absolute vintage favourites, Rokit.

Although I’ve always known them for their busy stores with rails of t-shirts, reclaimed pieces and coloured jackets lined up like ducks in a row- their online shop is a true place of treasure, and some of my most special pieces have been found on their site (which I’m reluctant to share, but because I love you and all that)…

 

 

  The Sparkly Bed Jacket…

I bought this jacket whilst on a nostalgic Beyond Retro trip with my pal Sarah, and although at the time I wasn’t totally sure it would be something I’d wear (was that the white feathers or white sequins Liv?)- I saw it having potential as a very fun sixties-style mini- and with a few alterations (I had it taken up and extra buttons added for closure) it’s quickly become one of my favourite party pieces. It feels feminine, cheeky and the perfect dancing dress (anything with a sleeve like this has me at hello), and shows that definitely using your imagination with vintage and making a few small tweaks can really inject some new life into something wonderful.

The Little Women Laura Ashley…

You may have seen this Laura Ashley dress pop up on my Instagram once or twice, and by far it’s one of my best purchases- vintage or not. Bought for £40 at Festival Number 6 two years ago, hunting down vintage at festivals is one of my favourite things (after the music- naturally). Whether that’s Oxfam tents at Glastonbury, or pop ups in the fields of Portmeirion- if you can look past some of the more avant-garde or statement pieces (what is it with festivals and endless military jackets?) there are always some gems to be found- and I promise you, it’ll always be worth balancing half naked in a pop up tent to try it on too. Mostly anyway.

My top tips for hunting out the good stuff…

Know your measurements as well as your size: my pal Sarah is excellent at knowing this, and either always has a tape measure handy or can cross reference (which is massively key online too). So many times I’ve bought things online because they’ve been ‘my clothes size’, but actually vintage sizing has a mind of its own (and sadly can often run smaller too). Whether that’s arms, waist or bust- it’s so worth getting exact measurements so you’re not caught out. I’m sure most of you know this already, but I’ve definitely been naïve and lazy in the past, which hasn’t always served me well!
Keep key phrases in mind: One of my favourite places to scour for vintage is Depop, and knowing key search phrases for styles that you like makes all the difference when it comes to rifling through hoards of vintage. Whether that’s ‘70s prairie dress’, ‘vintage bishop sleeve’ or anything else you might fancy, sometimes narrowing down is the key to some gems.
Don’t be afraid to go ‘mainstream’: I suppose subliminally I’ve always assumed that some of the bigger vintage names like Beyond Retro and Rokit won’t ever have the ‘good bits’ online, but some of my favourite pieces have been found on their pages. It takes a bit more patience, and sometimes regular checking back- but a great vintage piece is a great vintage piece, and sometimes it’s just down to timing.
Think about the TLC: Thankfully nowadays there’s lots of tips out there as to how to care for your preloved pieces, but keep in mind the less maintenance it’ll require, the more you’ll be likely to wear it. When it comes to most of my cotton vintage blouses, I know I can pop them on a cool wash without a worry in the world- and that means I’m less ‘precious’ about them, and they actually become wardrobe staples instead of museum like pieces. Some vintage is incredibly delicate, so be mindful of certain fabrics and conditions before you buy- some things might be beyond repair, and some things might be too much of a job- and that’s ok!

For my full guide of favourite vintage shops, you can head here for more inspiration!

x

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My Mini Cleanser Guide (for various skin situations)…

  *post contains press samples and affiliate links
When it comes to knowing which cleanser to use, I think I’m now pretty much set on the few I have in my arsenal to pick me up from all manner of skin complaints and wobbles…

Throughout the month, my skin has many facades; the nostalgic (yet oh so current) oily spot prone pre-teen, the dehydrated ‘oh hello fine line!’, the ‘oh god I didn’t realise that mascara was that stubborn’ and more often than not a generous mix of all of the above. I’ve grown to love and appreciate my skin in all it’s forms- whether it’s red, dry, spotty, oily, or glowing- and after a lot of trial and error I’ve learnt about the cleansers that can help remedy any of those concerns, and help maintain a level of control over my skincare when sometimes things feel a little haywire from the neck upwards.

So today I thought I’d share with you my ride or die few- the cleansers that I keep coming back to- some are newer discoveries and some are a tale as old as time. Either way- I’ve graduated from wipes and miceller water and I wanted to share the few that mean with a handy flannel or muslin, you’ll never have to go back…

The Cleansing Oils – Neighbourhood Botanicals Face Off* & Pai’s Rosehip Cleansing Oil*

Until last year, if you had told me I’d swear by an oil to remove my make up I’d have probably told that you had another thing coming. ‘I have oily skin! It’ll break me out’ I would have cried. I was always adamant that using oils on my skin would make matters worse, and not the fact that perhaps my skin was producing more oil because it needed it? I KNOW. Anyway- I now bloody love an oil for cleansing. Not only does it remove stubborn eye make up, foundation and makes you feel like you’re doing your own at home facial, but it means that my skin never feels tight, always feels clean and amazingly, (and personally) my skin loves it. My two favourites are Face Off by Neighbourhood Botanicals (a newer discovery) and the Pai Rosehip Oil cleanser, which first got me hooked. They have both transformed my make up removal game and I truly wouldn’t be without one- they’re the all in one wonder workers.

The Spot Solutions – Vichy Normaderm Cleanser & Pore Normalizing Cleanser* 

I’m not promising these will clear up any breakouts in a heartbeat, but when the going gets tough- these are the two cleansers I pull out first for my skin. I can’t remember when I first discovered this Vichy number, but I’ve mentioned it time and time again– and I know what whenever my skin feels a little all over the shop, this’ll do a good job at putting it in it’s place (gently, of course).

Unlike some cleansers that promise to aid spot disappearance, neither this or the Paula’s Choice cleanser feel remotely drying and don’t send my skin spiralling into flakiness or anything that feels completely drastic- which is always welcome (this girl has had enough experience of bad spot solutions to last a life time).

Neither of these are cleansers I’d use on my eyes or for eye make up (anything that foams up I recommend keeping for your face only)- but with a double cleanse (perhaps using one of the below as your first step for eyes too)- I can’t recommend these enough.

 

The Total Fail Safes – Caroline Hirons x Pixi* & Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish

a.k.a the Breton striped t-shirts of the cleanser world- failsafe, completely timeless and always good no matter what the weather. If ever my skin is dry, having a bit of a wobble (every now and again I get a nice patch of dryness on my eyelids which is a delight)- these are the cleansers I pull out. They’re both all-weather/all skin situation products and take off every ounce of dirt and grime too (without making them sound more like heavy duty kitchen cleaners of course). Neither of them are probably new to you, but I love the fact the Pixi one comes with both a cream and a balm (making it double cleanse gold), and of course Cleanse and Polish just gets it right every. single. time. It just does.

 

Which cleansers do you turn to again and again?

x

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Lashes to Lashes: My Current Favourite Mascaras

  *post contains press samples and affiliate links
No matter how late I’ve stayed up watching Taylor Swift documentaries (or just re-watching Miss Americana again and again), scrolling on TikTok (and then realising my music taste is now ‘dooon’t stay awake for too long’) or even attempting to remember my never ending to do list at 2am in the morning- my arsenal of mascaras have proved time and time again that there’s very little they can’t do to lift even the sleepiest eyes from butterbean territory and add a spring to even the weariest lash-line.

Thankfully, over lockdown- as well as perfecting a great freezable cookie, I’ve also discovered a handful of five eye products my make up bag barely functions without.

From liquid liners, Twiggy-esque mascaras and the eyelash curlers that make it all happen- I thought I’d walk you through some of the best I’ve discovered this year…

The Eye Five
At Lash’d my favourite mascara has come along…
(sorry)

If you’ve got a keen eye on new beauty launches, you’ve probably already heard the praise that’s been going around for the At Lash’d Lengthening and Curling mascara by Marc Jacobs. I’m not an avid follower of new beauty launches (as you’ll have probably observed when you hear me talk about a product that came out five years ago that I’ve just discovered)- but this mascara is beautiful. For long, curly Lucy Boynton-esque lashes, this is your guy. It’s great for layering (if like me you’re partial to something a little spidery and sixties) and does so with minimal clumping and utmost longevity.

For le volume…

If you’re more of a volume > length kind of lady, this mascara is one of my favourite fancy go to’s. Beautifully pigmented, Le Volume Révolution De Chanel is great for giving serious lash-line thickness and perfectly curled lashes.

For sixties Bambi Eyes…

For a proper doe-eyed sixties inspired look, Bambi Eyes is one of my favourite mascaras. A little ‘drug store’ gem, it’s the ultimate for layering for lengthy, lifted lashes- or even a one-coat wonder if you want something a little more subtle too.

 

  For the finishing flicks…
The new classic…

Ever since receiving a sample of Rouje’s ‘The Eyeliner’, it quickly became my go to for creating the perfect cat eye. I’m a huge fan of a pen style applicator, and the nib brush on this makes it perfect for the heavy handed- but also easy to create something finer, or thicker dependant on where you stand with your flick thickness.

And for definition…

A new discovery to me, but if you’re after definition and rich pigment, the Guerlain Mad Eyes liner is a total wonder worker. The tip feels less flexible than it’s Rouje counterpart, but creates the most gorgeous graphic lines which last beautifully too.

And the curler…

I’ve spoken about these Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curlers in the past, and they’re still my favourite thing for amping up an eye look- even on days where liquid liner and mascara take a backseat (a.k.a a red lipstick and ‘naked eye’ look). They’re completely transformative and I owe any lash curling education to the lash curling queen that is Zoe Taylor. They’re a bit of an investment, but one that cements that this little tool is a brilliant thing in any make up bag (my mum was right all those years ago)!

x

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Little Home Joys: The Interiors Brands (and bits) I Love

  *Asterix indicates press sample 
Like the rest of the world, I’ve pretty much spent the last three months at home. Flicking between Tenable and Countdown each afternoon, tucking into cheese and pickle sandwiches come 12pm and noticing how the strangers who walk past our house daily on commutes or shop-runs now seem familiar.

I’m incredibly fortunate that being at home to me is a space where I typically feel comfort and calm. Having spent the last six or so years working from home, it’s somewhere I’m used to being for prolonged periods of time, and have spent a good chunk of time navigating the balance between work and play, I’ve gotten quite good at trying to separate the two when they both fall between the same four walls.

Whether you’re working or lying low, I’m pretty sure that during a pandemic- no matter how spacious, glamorous, cosy, well decorated or gallery-walled your living space is- there will always be bouts of cabin fever and restlessness. We’re all only human, after all.

Anyway- I thought I’d take today to show you a few of the home ware brands and additions that have made our space feel all the more special over the last few months. We very rarely make interior changes, but sometimes a little something every now and again helps give a little life to those dusty old corners…

John Lewis x Orla Kiely* in our living room… 

Oh Orla! When I was informed about this gorgeous collaboration with John Lewis my heart skipped a beat. It’s been a while, but there’s a permanent space in my heart for Orla Kiely’s gorgeous sixties prints and designs- and this collection is no different. With the retro tiling on the mug, and rich mustard and rosy hues on the cushion, both make cosy additions for rainy days.

Polkra Candles* and Sugar & Cement Placemat…

One of my favourite lifestyle brand discoveries of late has been Polkra. Although known for their statement table wear, it was their candles with Katie Scott that blew me away. Housed in beautiful botanical ceramic pots, they’re truly special candles that fragrance a room before they’re even lit. They live on our little Sugar & Cement scalloped placemat which is one of my favourite things, and the perfect little centre piece for a table or cabinet- dreamy.

Mystery Village on our fireplace…

Absolutely only half biased with this inclusion- but my best friend Gemma also started selling her adorable clay figurines on her shop Mystery Village earlier in lockdown, and her E.T and Moomin’s have stolen my heart (she’s ridiculously creative). They’re the cutest little flower holders (or just bedside BFFL’s) and she also made me a little Maggie for my birthday which sits pride of place with E.T on our fireplace. They are the best of pals.

 

  Prints from Hand & Palm and Tatiana Alida*…

I’m on a print ban. I’ve put it in writing so it is now true. But one of the things I am so, so weak when it comes to buying online- are prints. ‘We’ll put it in the bedroom!’ ‘I’ll frame it next week!’ Are two of my favourite phrases, and probable lies (which Joe has now sadly come to discover). Before the self-imposed ban (until I catch up with actually housing aforementioned prints) I picked up this flower one from Hand & Palm who have the most gorgeous hand-finished pieces, and this from Tatiana Alida, who I discovered at the South London Makers Market and have subsequently been in love with ever since.

Finishing touches from G L Ø D* & The Antik Store* in the bedroom…

Our bedroom is the place that I always end up adding to with trinkets and dishes- and these gorgeous little shells from The Antik Store are no different (she has some gorgeous pieces so keep checking back). I’m also in love with the ladies behind G L Ø D too. Their candles are some of the most deliciously scented (the Malala lemongrass and geranium one is heavenly), and with every purchase they donate £1 to Women for Women- which makes them even sweeter.

x

The post Little Home Joys: The Interiors Brands (and bits) I Love appeared first on What Olivia Did.

Simple Bakes from Brilliant Women: My Favourite Go To Recipes

  At the start of lockdown I had grand baking ambitions. This time would be used to flourish in the kitchen. I’d become the Julie Powell of lower east London (ahem). When the rain pattered down outside, I’d slip into my orange lit kitchen, with the windows steaming up and turn to a dog-eared cookbook and whip up something just because. Maybe I’d listen to some jazz or something too. Who knows.

But whether it was a bouncy warm-from-the-oven focaccia, a feather light genoise sponge (I’m not sure which of you were that ambitious, but I salute you) or just having a supply chain of frozen cookies constantly on rotation, that if Ben’s ever went out of business, you’d be there waiting in the wings- I was ready. Until I wasn’t.

Okay I’ve done a little baking. I’ve made cookies, a couple of cakes and obviously banana loaves (this is #lockdown2020 guys what did you expect?) But I almost felt like I was starting to enjoy the idea of it more than the reality. When I was tired, sluggish or uninspired, the expectation-Liv would bake, but the reality would rather watch Mamma Mia and moodily let her stomach grumble. I didn’t want to do something because I felt I had to, but more recently I’ve leaned into it more- because I’ve been peckish, inspired or just hankering of a little solitary time in the kitchen; where a Spotify playlist and a promise of sponge has satisfied that craving.

And with that I’ve discovered some new go-to recipes too. I’ve started to find the women I love coming back to again and again- a little like the Delia’s, Mary’s and Nigella’s my mum and nan always turned to (which I still do; sometimes you gotta stick it to the classics)- but some new faces (to me) and some brilliantly creative cooks and their recipes that I think you should add to your baking repertoire too…

(I must add a very important disclaimer that all of these women do cookies, extremely well. I could just do a post about all of their cookie recipes, but that’s a different post in itself).

Ravneet Gill for all things pastry (and cookies)…

Okay so this lady knows her pastry. Having discovered Ravneet through her Insta-famous cookie recipe (see! Cookies!), I then discovered how blinking talented she was with pastry- something I struggle with endlessly. Being a pastry chef at the brilliant Puff London, there is nothing she doesn’t know about a choux, flaky, short crust and everything in-between. Her book, The Pastry Chef’s Guide came out this year and is a total haven for everything from tarts, loafs, puddings and getting that glaze right. She’s the ultimate woman to hold your hand through those tricky recipes, and her book is nothing short of a gem.

Ghenet’s chocolate chip cookies and lemon drizzle loaf…

She may be a pal, but I promise there’s no bias when it came to adding Ghenet’s brilliant bakes into the mix. Having baked her lemon drizzle loaf (which I stand by saying is one of my favourite and easy-to-follow recipes) and sampled her chocolate chip cookies and coffee cake fresh from her kitchen- Ghenet knows what she’s talking about with a good cosy home-bake. Her recipes are simple, delicious and completely failsafe- and always ones I turn to when I fancy something sweet but perhaps feel overwhelmed by the stack of books in front of me (although I’m certain one day hers will be in that stack, watch this space)…

 
Anna’s thick & gooey milk chocolate & hazelnut cookies…

After Banana Bread in lockdown, came Anna’s thick and gooey chocolate and hazelnut cookies– a recipe more popular than Iceland’s Eurovision song entry and one you won’t get sick off after baking one too many times. These cookies are unreal. Levain meets Ben’s meets everything good about a cookie. Make some, eat them warm and save some in your freezer for a lazy day- you’ll thank yourself, I promise. They are incredible.

Benjamina Ebuehi’s cherry and pistachio cake…

I am a huge fan of a squidgy sponge (especially one with a chewy edge, mmm), and this pistachio-cherry number (as seen above) from Benjamina is a go to when you want something that looks impressive, tastes delicious and doesn’t take hours either. Her book, The New Way To Cake is a total guide to exceptional flavour in bakes- with gorgeously simple cakes in creative combinations that’ll have you wondering ‘why didn’t I try this together sooner?!’ Check out her blog for additional recipe goodness too.

  Clare Ptak’s scones and sponges…

I am the biggest Violet bakery fan. Whenever I’m far enough East, I’ll always stop by for a tea and one of Clare’s signature cakes- be it her Rye brownies, macaroons or scones. When it comes to home baking from her cookbook, I love her scones, cinnamon buns and sponges for a show-stopping birthday offering. I also love her cookies, but what’s new there?

Frances Quinn’s bourbon brownies…

Could I ever include a baking post without Frances’ bourbon brownies (or anything she does for that matter)? The most superior biscuit (don’t @ me) combined with one of the best brownie recipes there is never lets me down (it’s in her book, in case you were wondering), and can be customised in so many ways, that even if you’re missing a couple of ingredients, it’ll do the leg work for you- deeeelicious!

The Mother Cooker’s meringue’s…

If you’re after sophisticated and seasonal puddings, Gem has got your back. Whether that’s a cosy crumble or floaty meringue in the height of summer- I’m constantly referencing her delicious desserts for ideas in how to make the finale of dinner time that little bit sweeter, and she never disappoints.

x

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