Liv Purvis's Blog, page 6

Save The Date! The Salad Days x Liv Purvis Market…

  Oh I am so, SO excited to write this post today, SO excited. After several months of giddy emails, provisional plans, a mutual love of vintage, brilliant small brands and a meeting of three south London minds- I am over the moon to share that I’m joining forces with the wonderful Liv and Daisy of Salad Days Market for a two-day small business shopping pop up in April. Gah!

Ever since we had the first initial chats (which began from some blue sky dreaming on my end and a big sense of optimism), I knew we would be able to cook up something fun together. With shopping small and supporting indie being one of my main loves both in life and also through doing this job, it felt so right to work on something with these amazing ladies- fusing our mutual love of shopping small and championing the place we call home (have I ever spoken to you about Bromley, or?) Having attended their first ever Crystal Palace market in December 2019 (and subsequently fell in love with everything they stood for), it was a match made in heaven and it’s been the most incredible thing watching Salad Days Market grow and support over 1000 small businesses, do beyond amazing things and pop up in Selfridges too, casual.

Anyway! Several email threads later, a glorious zoom chat, a giddy meet up and over-excited dog chats- here we are! Next month we’ll be hosting a very special two day event at Beckenham Place Mansion (a.k.a one of my favourite places) and we are so excited to invite you all along.  With a particular focus on vintage, preloved, reworked and sustainable items- we’ll be taking over the entire ground floor of the mansion, with 30 brands each day featuring everything from clothes, jewellery, homeware, art and more. Plus, I’ll also be selling my own vintage for the first time; with pieces I’ve curated over time (plus some special new additions too, which I am so so excited to share more about).

The market will feature 60 of the UK’s most exciting small brands, and applications are now *drumroll please* open!

So, the details!

The dates: Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th April 11am – 4pm.

Location: Beckenham Place Mansion, in Beckenham Place Park.

Free entry, tickets here.

Getting there:  Beckenham Hill and Beckenham Junction Stations are a short walk from the park grounds and go across South East London to Blackfriars, London Bridge, and Victoria. The Victoria train goes via Brixton you can switch on to there from the tube. There’s also limited parking available in Beckenham Place Park’s car park. We would strongly recommend using public transport, cycling or visiting us on foot, as the car park fills up quickly on a first-come, first-served basis.

There are a number of cycle racks around the Mansion perimeter.

The venue is also accessible with no stairs on the ground floor with the building also having a disabled toilet.

 

Additionally, there will be plenty of homemade treats and food stalls to buy from- as well as  the mansion’s Sunday food market out the front too. The event is dog and child friendly (naturally) and there’s also a playground, huuuge sandpit, the best bacon and egg brioche buns in the cafe, swimming lake and 200 acres of parkland too- in case that wasn’t enough. Picnic and vintage shopping? Hopefully we can tempt you! To nab your free ticket (and for all the details you could wish for, head here)!

Save the date and hopefully see you there!

x

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Five of my Favourite London Vintage Shops

  (Photos taken at Laura von Behr’s studio with Beatrice Granados)One of my favourite things to do in London (aside from stare wistfully out of the window on the top deck of the 48 with my headphones in) is vintage shopping. Whether you’re after a blink-and-you’ll walk past it spot with worn in signage and a ‘is it even open?’ vibe, or a vibrant all-singing shop with a bursting rail out front that could bury you in a sea of sequins and suede- London has both in abundance which is truly what makes the whole experience so magical.

And because I have trouble doing things by halves, this post has taken me months to put together. It was going to be a not-so-concise guide to vintage in London as a big whole, but giving that everything changes so quickly and I’ve yet to discover all that the capital has to offer ( as well as things popping up and disappearing like magic)- I thought I’d begin with five of my favourite spots for vintage in London to get you started. These are by no means secrets, but they’re definitely a good starting place for those special additions.

 

 

Laura Von Behr’s Studio

Oh Laura, Laura, Laura. Visiting Laura’s Islington studio is a bit like walking into a friends sun-drenched open wardrobe- where you have free reign to play dress up, talk about beautiful dresses and set the world to rights over a tea (whilst naturally fawning over her exquisite taste in everything from artwork to trinkets). The selection is a largely seventies offering, peppered with ‘30s water-like rosy nightdresses and knitwear to style with your new Laura Ashley- in short: it’s a dream. Plus, there’s never any pressure to purchase, so if you just want a laidback afternoon with a pal, or solo- trying on, or even getting inspiration from the most beautifully curated selection- Laura is always your girl.

Hunky Dory / House of Vintage / Here After

I couldn’t possibly narrow down these three gems to one when it came to shopping on and around London’s Brick Lane; home to some of the finest vintage (and bagels… but I’m sure that’s for another post), there’s definitely still some goodies parked along here after all these years. With Hunky Dory offering an excellent selection of everything time and time again (be that men’s or womenswear)- House of Vintage being a total go-to for amazing worn-in but excellent condition t-shirts (and occasional dungarees) and Here After nailing floral, embroidered and Hungarian folk blouses- make this three to bookmark for a waltz along this East London favourite.

  Portobello Green Friday Market 

There’s nothing like market shopping when it comes to having a good ol’ vintage rummage, and the Friday Market under the canopy at the Ladbroke Grove end of Portobello Road is nothing short of magic. Whether you’re after a dress that gives ‘lead singer on the Pyramid Stage’ (a.k.a floaty silk gowns worthy of a Stevie or Florence moment, which Turner Vintage excel at), unique Laura Ashley pieces or just incredible day-to-day pieces from suede jackets, trouser suits and everything in between- it’s got to be here. Get here early to really have a good crowd-free mooch (and head to Relik around the corner afterwards for some further browsing).

  Magpie Vintage

As well as having a beautifully curated selection of everything from dresses to a very precious rail of childrenswear (it took everything to resist getting Arlo a Duran Duran style red leather jacket in there recently); what makes Magpie Vintage so special are their handcrafted ready-to-wear original pieces, made from vintage quilts and pre-loved fabrics- creating the most special selection and reimagining what it is to shop vintage.

 

Retrouve Vintage

Tucked away along Wilton Way (a stones throw from Violet if you’re after a cake pit-stop before or after), Ginny’s vintage collection always feels full and exciting in this beautiful little shop. Walking in, there are always rails bursting with gems; from knitwear, dresses and some exceptional coats- with one of the real treats being the impressive little kids selection which I always get very excited about. They also have a shop on Broadway market too which is very exciting and I know that’ll be a brilliant spot too.

 

Where are your favourite places in London for vintage shopping?

x

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Motherhood at Two

  This week Arlo turned two, and after taking a little bit of an extended blog break over Christmas and the new year, am very much ready to dust off Word and graduate from clumsy phone notes to back typing in my favourite little corner of the internet.

It also feels like a special time to come back and pick up where I left off too; although I promise this will be the last of the deep and meaningfuls for a while… probably/unlikely (I mean, it’s my 30th in June so buckle up).

Anyway, now you are two. I never know why I write things like this as if Arlo is swiping up to click on a blog post, or opening a tagged Facebook birthday photo of himself, but there’s something a little more personal about it, so do humour me just this once. Categorically not a baby- but forever mine, and some days somewhere between a toddler and a teenager- (I guess a cocktail of everything I feel sometimes too- certainly when it comes to how I dress anyway)…

Admittedly, my second year of parenting didn’t quite look exactly as I’d imagined. But, everything aside- which is a big side sweep, it’s been the hardest yet most rewarding twelve months, and the beauty of it was that I got to share it with you. So, so much has changed. Everything, really. You walk! You run! You dance! You talk too! So much! You tell me how you slept, and what you dreamt of (even if a lot is shared just by listening to you next to me each evening). You ask for cuddles, hand holds and songs we can sing together. Matching breakfasts and dinners and bubble baths and Pizza Express dates, because where else would we possibly go?  You have this incredible skill of making everything interesting. The half burnt candle on the mantlepiece, the crunch of an individual Shreddie as a tiny tiny pretend waffle, ice skating on the kitchen floor and the brown envelope through the door in the morning. ‘What’s that?’ always accompanies every new, ordinary, exciting discovery, and getting to experience endless firsts again with you, whilst experiencing endless firsts myself in tandem feels really special.

We’re doing this together, in our own funny way. Both learning a lot, sometimes big, often little things. Getting to know one another as much as we know ourselves. Sometimes that means laughing a lot, and sometimes it’s frustration when we don’t have the words to express how we’re feeling; and I so get it. Because oh, how much you’ve made me grow too. You’ve shown me how much more capable I am than I ever thought I could be, and that as scary and beautiful as it is; half of my heart is bounding alongside me every day.

Selfishly, you’ve taught me more about myself then I could possibly know. You’ve given me patience, understanding and a slow pace that often I can accidentally exchange for flappiness and fretting. I’ve learnt it’s always a phase (even when it feels like it isn’t), and my god does it all go so quickly. One magical chapter in growing up is oh-so quickly exchanged for another, sometimes so quickly you won’t even realise it’s happened.

And I know I won’t always get it right, but that’s fine. Because I’ve learnt that I’m always trying my best and doing my best, in the moment with the tools I have and in the place I’m in. I’ve learnt that guilt in parenthood is so often misspent and whatever decision you go for, you’ll likely feel guilty for not going for the other- so reserve the guilt for another day.

But most of all, you’ve taught me absolute pure gratitude. Gratitude for the sunshine and being able to enjoy it outside after a long stretch of rain, gratitude for the first snow on our red cold cheeks, gratitude for when dinner is a success and there are two yogurts left for pudding, gratitude for the little, the large and the silly and sensible. Gratitude for being given the opportunity to soften, soak it all up and most of all, complete gratitude for being your mama.

x

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22 Lessons I Learnt In 2022

Ah! It’s time! The quasi-profound sentimental handwritten collaged blog post rolls around once again; fuelled by mini deep and meaningfuls and a few pocket sized pearls of wisdom I’ve collected throughout the last twelve months (along with a handful of twinkly grey hairs, a new love of FM radio I might never shut up about and a slightly out of control nightwear collection- alas, she is but 29)…

Anyway- I’ve spoken a little bit about how this year has been a challenge in more ways than one (*resists with all might not to end with a ‘lol’*), and although I’m a huge advocate for ‘you don’t need to take anything from the messy parts of life apart from just getting through them’; picking out the little highlights, and things I’ve learnt along the way has definitely been somewhat of a balm over a rocky twelve months. Last night I curled up with Kathryn’s beautiful Substack newsletter, and in all honesty it felt like I could have written it myself (albeit not as articulately or beautifully flourished). She called it ‘my year of what didn’t happen’, and talks beautifully about what happens when life really doesn’t go to plan, the uncertainty of life (and the pain and beauty to be found in it) and what happens when you find yourself navigating quite the unexpected new reality.  

On top of that, as I creep tentatively (or, on a good day bulldoze with absolute gusto) into my 30th year, it feels like a funny/weird/reflective time to look back on my twenties. I’ve never felt more like a new chapter is starting, which is the strangest, most surreal feeling that I truly didn’t think I’d experience. Christ, if Liv of January were to read this she’d be like ‘this is… a lot’. But like a lot of things in life- it’s really what you make of it, and if I can take some of the confidence I’ve found in myself over the last 6 months, keep nurturing it and hopefully build on it bit by bit, maybe- just maybe, it’ll all work out.

Anyway- waffling and heart to hearts to one side, as I always say, these notes aren’t things that are about to set the rulebooks on fire, warrant a TED talk moment or anything you haven’t heard before. But sometimes you can hear things again and again, and sometimes after a while they just click. Like magic. That’s kind of what these are- the silly things you might’ve heard before that finally now I believe to be true- and if that isn’t something to be grateful for.

Finally, thank you for sticking around. Another year of me opening up on the internet, talking to brilliant strangers about the things that excite me, scare me and light me up, finding my feet once again, cherishing creativity and actually- getting my groove back a bit. Maybe a little shake up was exactly what I needed- but through thick and thin, spon con to rom coms (?) thank you. There’s a few really lovely and exciting things cooking in the new year (from a certain paperback, a special event and a couple of very lovely collaborations)- I promise it’ll be worth joining in for another year.

Have a gorgeous New Year, and here’s to a very happy and healthy 2023, you’re the best.

x

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My Party Wear Style Recipes

  Photos by the ever-talented Beatrice Granados Her name is D-I-S-C-O (or k-a-r-a-o-k-e, if she’s lucky)…

It’s the last big ol’ style post of the season, and with party season (or sofa/dancing/crisps in abundance season) well underway, it’s arguably a *tiny* bit late to start making important purchases or adding anything new into the mix (for me at least anyway). Plus, with post all over the place who needs the stress of thinking about what they haven’t got in their wardrobes, when I’m sure there’s a few gems hiding in there?

So! This is a little post celebrating what’s in them already. I thought I’d share a few of my failsafe ‘wardrobe recipes’ for an evening out (or in) featuring things I’ve had sitting pretty for a good while now (some slightly more recent than others) to hopefully inspire a few festive looks with things you might have (or similar at least)…

 

  The Shorts & Blouse Cocktail

Now, this is a combination I hadn’t worn since the ultimate indiesleaze dancing days, and it feels like I’ve been missing a trick sitting on these leather shorts all this time. Arguably the easiest way of adding a big of life to a blouse (or an oversized band t-shirt), they look vvvv. cool paired with a silk/lurex/glittery blouse and tights, and also mean you can opt for something lower shoe-wise which means extra time for dancing blister free (we hope, anyway). This also would look really cool with a little suede/cord/velvet (tick as appropriate) mini skirt too; the small things hold great power!

A few ideas on where to go with this:

Silver Shirt + Leather Shorts (or other bottom) + Fun Tights + Mary Janes

Ribbed Body + Leather Shorts + Fun Tights + Chunky Boots

Band T-Shirt + Leather Shorts + Black Tights + Platform Heel

Fuzzy Button Up Cardigan + Leather Shorts + Black Tights + Mary Janes

 

  The Disco Jumpsuit

Ahh, the jumpsuit. The perfect number to pull out when you’re in need of feeling like a glorious Gibb brother, or just dancing queen extraordinaire. Plus, it’s warm and pretty much sorts out the whole outfit in one foul swoop. I’ve teamed it with the collar to end all collars (a little bit of slinky-meets-Harry Hill never hurt anyone) but this would look equally very cool with nothing underneath, a long neck-scarf and some very chunky boots (or platforms too).

A few ideas on where to go with this:

Jumpsuit + Silk Shirt + Boots

Jumpsuit + Silk Scarf + Platforms

Jumpsuit + Jumper Over The Top + Slink Heels

Jumpsuit + Bodysuit + Chunky Heels

 

 

The Velvet Suit

Where would we be for Christmas ideas without some gorgeous green and velvet? Christmastime is the best time to pull out a suit, and even if you just go for the bottoms (or jacket)- there’s a lot of styling options to be had. Tailoring really elevates all sorts of things, so even if you want to do a really simple shirt, or t-shirt- a great pair of trousers can really put in a shift when it comes to making things party appropriate. This blouse from Olivia Annabelle is one of my favourites (everything she does is magic) and feels like quite a cool masculine Stonesy nod to doing partywear too. Dr-eamy.

A few ideas on where to go with this:

Blouse with Tie + Trousers + Platforms

Silk vest + Trousers + Jacket + Boots

Band Tee + Trousers + Jacket + Platforms

Suit Jacket + Shirt + Shorts + Tights + Boots

 

 

  The All-Year-Round Maxi

Move aside Stevie, we have another headliner this evening (oh she wishes) and although she’s only hogging the karaoke mic this evening, why not dress as if you were headlining front and centre on a Saturday? This maxi dress has seen all number of occasions, and although it’s pretty simple, looks just as special with a twinkly heel as it does with seventies white boots or something chunky (and hidden) just for the extra inches too.

There’s not a huge amount of ways you can spice up a classic like this- but playing around with jewellery (I love going to town on rings with a simple number like this) always looks very cool (and feels quite ‘Florence’ too).

 

 

The Mini

Finally, I don’t think you can really go wrong with a cool mini and tights, and there’s something very sixties (and a bit unexpected) about wearing a winter white dress with some tights and white shoes. It feels like it *shouldn’t* work but somehow does, and I love the sparkle the sleeves give which make it feel a little more fun and festive, too. Plus, there’s a lot you can do with this combination, which would also look very sweet with an updo and Mary Janes, or bare legged with a slinkier heel too.

A few ideas on where to go with this:

Mini Dress + Tights + Mary Janes / Boots / Platforms

Mini Dress + Spotty Tights + Platforms

Depending on your dress (and it’s shape) you can always belt it and throw a cardi over the top, which makes it work really well as a ‘skirt’ too.

 

 

 

Thank you for indulging me with my silly dancing and poses for another year- it’s been so fun working on these kind of posts and I’ve got lots cooking for the new year! Have a gorgeous Christmas and I’ll see you just before the New Year <3 !

x

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Visiting Gleneagles Townhouse & 48 Hours in Edinburgh

  (ad- press stay)& a mini toddler friendly guide to Edinburgh!A few weeks ago, my mum, Arlo and I headed up to a (surprisingly) sunny Edinburgh for a magical 48 hours at the newly opened Gleneagles Townhouse on St Andrew Square…

Having been lucky enough to visit Gleneagles a few years ago during a snowy January, I knew the townhouse would be nothing short of special, but amazingly it still exceeded expectations and made my first city break with a toddler a very special one indeed…

Having our travel plans ruptured to due a rail strike, travelling looked a little different than originally planned- but arriving at the hotel on a cold Thursday, we made quick work of dropping our bags off and heading out to explore and make the most of our time. Having never done a city break with Arlo before, we tried to make sure we had a good balance of toddler-friendly things mapped out (thanks to lots of very generous Instagram recommendations), cafes that were baba friendly and green spaces to charge about in too- and Edinburgh really had all of those things in spades, and really made for the perfect place to take a small person (I’ve popped a long list of spaces below, so you can save these for any trips too)!

But! Back to the hotel. Surprisingly Gleneagles Townhouse doesn’t market itself as being child friendly, and although it would make for *the* most romantic city retreat or magical couples getaway (I truly couldn’t recommend it enough for an anniversary stay or girlie trip); it would also make for the most beautiful spot to stay with a little one too for a special occasion- as it’s without a doubt one of the most beautiful (and child friendly) places I’ve been lucky enough to stay. Not only did the staff go above and beyond at every corner, but everything that I usually worry about when travelling with little A was taken care of. A travel cot with blankets in the room, a baby bath and wash, nappy bin (plus a very important children’s dressing gown) and a children’s menu, plus plastic plates and cutlery in the restaurant that would accommodate even the fussiest of eaters- with everything homemade fresh (with the chefs willing to make things work for any needs too).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And if you’re not travelling with little ones, or simply grabbing dinner at their restaurant, The Spence, it’s just as stunning. With attention to detail in every corner of the design- it oozes the traditional glamour of low lit and grand dining spaces, marble tables and bistro curtains; all whilst balancing the beautiful corners peppered throughout in a really fresh and contemporary way.

The bedrooms feel like cosy home-from-homes (you know, if your home looked like *this*) and there’s a warmth and cosiness that runs throughout. Maybe it’s the fireside nook in reception, or at dinner whilst you decide between puddings on the trolley. Or maybe it’s the slippers next to the bed as you climb in after a long day of covering the city. Either way- Gleneagles Townhouse is one to bookmark and make a beeline for next time you’re in the city…

For more recommendations in Edinburgh, I’ve added my full guide here– but keep scrolling for my toddler friendly suggestions…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edinburgh Recommendations (with a toddler):

Days Out & Green Spaces:

Royal Botanic Gardens

Head to Portobello Beach; there’s Civerinos Slice, Beach House Bakery and Bros Bagels to eat there too.

In Leith; there’s Joy Tots, Wonder World Soft Play and Mimi’s Bakehouse.

Inverleith Park & Hot chocolates from Milk in the park

Princes Street Gardens

The Meadows

Dynamic Earth

Edinburgh Zoo

Love Gorgie Farm

Saughton Park and Gardens

Camera Obscura

Edinburgh Castle

 

Museums & Libraries:

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Museum of Childhood

National Museum of Scotland

Children’s Library

Lovely Shops (more in guide above):

Treehouse Childrenswear

Style Your Spaces

St James Quarter (apparently the lifts are also pretty special, as lifts go)

& Child Friendly Places To Eat:

The Pastry Section / The Scran & Scallie / Leo’s Beanery / Stack & Still / Lowdown  / Amarine / Bonnie & Wild / Loudons / The City Café / Leaf Bean Deli / Elliotts (for a lovely bit of lunch on the go) / Uplands Roast / 101 Bakery / Bits Bake Shop / The Palmerston / Milk / Salt Café Morningside

 

 

 

  x

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My Autumn Wardrobe Staples

  *affiliate links and samples included in postWith the change in seasons, this year it feels a bit like I’ve finally mastered a bit of a mini capsule wardrobe situation (despite being ever the wardrobe maximalist)…

Not simply going for ‘maroon and burgundy florals’; but turning to pieces that work in a number of ways and transcend seasons too. Having been circulating these particular items long before September crept around, I’m confident these are the pieces I’ll be wearing long into the winter months too (and beyond).

So- for a bit of fun (and after a deep delve through some old Lula magazines and the ‘London Calling’ style Vogue fashion shoots of yesteryear which made me want to traipse along the Southbank with Cara Delevigne and Daisy Lowe), I roped in Beatrice for a waltz around some of my favourite London landmarks, in the rain no less; because is there any better way of road testing the best of autumn then in the pouring rain and wind?

 

  The Classic Blazer

Although for a long time I struggled to wear blazers with anything other than matching trousers, I’ve recently hung in there and discovered a couple of styles which are really working hard from my wardrobe, and those include this Alexa Chung tailored coat and this & Other Stories blazer. This blazer looks just as great with tailoring as it does blue denim, loafers as it does trainers- and feels like the perfect dose of ‘80s Meg Ryan without steering into boxy territory.

(styled with a Toastblouse, Sandro trousers, Sezane sunnies and Carel shoes)

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The Brown Trousers

Oh god. HERE SHE GOES. My hero piece and the colour that like a great pale blue denim, seems to go with everything. Find the perfectly tailored pair of brown trousers and I can assure you that you’re quids in. Got a great floral blouse that needs a partner? Brown trousers! Pale blue cardigan? Brown trousers! Want something to pair with the tan autumnal pieces in your wardrobe? Brown trousers! Did I mention that I really like them?

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The Mary Janes

When it comes to a fun, comfortable and chic shoe for an evening out, I love a Mary Jane. This Carel pair are without a doubt one of my best purchases this year, and although they’re not cheap; they look amazing with mini dresses, great poking out underneath a maxi and really soften tailoring too. I love how sixties they feel, and so long as they can take me from day to night blister free I’ll be wearing them for a long time yet.

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The Everywhere Dress

Although when it comes to getting dressed up I’m a suit girl through and through, there’s something special about a magic little dress that you can pull out and feel amazing in, and this number (in fact all numbers) from Queens of Archive, will do that for you. Billowed sleeves? Statement collar? Mini and velvet? Check, check, check and check! They’re the kind of dresses that make you wish you could play guitar and sing lead in a cool girl band- but until then you can always wear them for a good old boogie which I’m sure is second best.

(styled with old Orla Kiely x Clarks boots & an Essentiel Antwerp feather boa… naturally)

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The Platform Boots

Ah, the humble platform boot! Surprisingly weatherproof (the higher away from the puddles you are, the safer IMO) and when patent all the better to wipe clean too. This pair had been sitting pretty in my wardrobe since about 2012; under an illusion that I wasn’t cool enough for them and they were far too tall for me. ANYWAY- fast forward a decade (ahem) and they’re the comfiest, coolest pair I own (search Orla Kiely x Clarks on Depop/Vinted/eBay).

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…and a brolly. Obviously.

 

 

 

  The Printed Blouse

Whether I’m layering under dungarees, jumpsuits, waistcoats, jumpers, cardigans- or adding a little flash of fun under a suit- a great printed blouse, be it floral, spotty or striped is pretty much an essential in my wardrobe. This special number from Seraphina is a really beautiful paisley gold flecked autumnal addition, which feels really seventies and looks amazing paired with indigos and browns, and will look amazing layered under vests too.

(styled with Zara Marine jeans, Toast scarf, Madam Popoff sunglasses, Sezane bag & Monki boots)

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The Wide Jeans

Without fail, when these jeans disappear into the washing basket once a week (probably after an inevitable Same Jeans situation), it’s inevitable I’ll feel lost. The perfect crop, waist height and colour, the Marine Jeans from Zara are pretty spot on in every area (plus, they’re widely available on Depop too and are very true to size)- win win.

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  The Statement Trousers

These Cordial Vintage brown trousers started their life as a pair of men’s vintage trousers which were pretty much an all in one on me, but with a bit of tailoring are now my statement slacks of dreams (apparently wearing them also makes me talk like an 80 year old gent, so just bare with me). But! They feel like a really wearable alternative to jeans or tailoring; somewhere in the middle- a bit sporty, but gave me allllll the Gucci/Wales Bonner vibes too. Paired with this Adidas jacket I feel way over my head in terms of trying to be a ~trendy wendy~, but love how they pull out the yellows and pinks in this jacket, and think they’ll look just as cool with a cream silky blouse or band t shirt too.

(styled with Adidas x Wales Bonner jacket, AMO top, Boden sunglasses and Gola trainers)

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The Retro Trainers

I’m a real trainers girl through and through (and not in the way that I need the ~latest launches~, just more I like comfy shoes…) ANYWAY. Some of my favourites are the Gola Classics, which are super comfortable but also come in some really fab earthy greens and mustards which always work hard pulling outfits together and look great with absolutely everything. I also love the Novesta trainers (and high tops), Adidas Gazelle’s (and Sambas) and this Grenson pair too.

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(photos by the incredible Beatrice Granados)

x

The post My Autumn Wardrobe Staples appeared first on What Olivia Did.

A Weekend In Copenhagen

  It’s incredibly tight competition, but one of my favourite cities I’ve visited probably has to be Copenhagen. It feels like a city that sparkles all year round. In the summer it’s drinks along the water, bicycle baskets brimming with picnics and the kind of alfresco magic you read about in books.

In the colder months it’s orange leaves, steamy windowed coffee shops and scarves so tightly wrapped hair becomes a haystack, which on this occasion was why we were there in the first place; to celebrate the beautiful second Tartan Blanket Co. and Amy Bell collection (and where better to parade it around then this special Danish spot)…

With the collection having been such a success, it felt apt to celebrate somewhere equally as special; so Amy, Megan, Faye and I spent the weekend exploring the city- ticking off as many corners as possible, and if you’re me- desperately seeking Danish pastries too.

 

 

Although, for once it was quite a leisurely weekend (with the only real aim to be out of our Air BnB before it was too late for brunch), we did manage to pinpoint a few lovely spots, which I’ve listed below. This very much only scratched the surface of so many brilliant places; but sometimes it’s nice to just meander around a city aimlessly, soaking it up as it happens, and you stumble upon things- quickly glancing at Google maps to see what’s near.

 

 

Some of our favourite spots…

Eating:

Atelier September / Andersen & Maillard

Hart Bageri / Grød

Mad & Kaffe / Mother

Esmée / Bottega Barlie

C’HO Fame (great for GF)

Seeing:

Tivoli / Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

 

Shopping:

Acne Archive / Ganni Outlet

Dora Homeware / Holly Golightly

Stilleben / Skall Studio

New Mags / Carmen Copenhagen

Magasin du Nord / Hay House

 

 

 

 

I also have this little guide from my first visit, and amazingly- a lot of the spots there seem to be still favourites and open! I can’t wait to add more to my list next time too…

x

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My Current Make Up Favourites

  (*affiliate links included)Now, this probably won’t go down as the most in depth beauty post the world has ever known; but over the last few weeks- with a bit of a tumultuous skin period and lots of days just about managing to get dressed (never mind do my make up)- I think I’ve managed to find a bit of a routine and make up selection that truly pulls me a solid whether I’ve got a morning at soft play or a meeting in Soho.

So! I thought I’d share the supergroup of things that I’m pulling out again and again (which, for the not-so-eagled-eyed you’ll be able to tell by the condition they’re in)- and the ones I go back to time and time again.

Sometimes it’s a bit of a cocktail of a few of them and on good days it’s the whole gang- but these are the ones always in my arsenal ready and waiting…

  The daily face menu… NARS Radiant Longwear Foundation  *

a.k.a arguably one of my favourites foundations ever. If I ever want a foundation that has the ultimate *just right* quantity of coverage; not too thick but not so light it feels like a tinted moisturiser- this is the one. It always puts in a good shift and by the time I get to the end of the day I’m always impressed by it’s longevity too.

Dior Diorskin Forever Concealer

If I’m having a particularly impressive skin day, this will be my one-stop shop for coverage (and equally if I’m having a less-than impressive skin day, I’ll layer this with my foundation too). It’s the perfect creamy concealer without dragging or ever feeling heavy, and does a great job at covering all manner of tiredness, which I very much appreciate.

Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder *

Nobody does a setting powder like Hourglass, and this is the ultimate no shine/slide powder without ever giving floury/Mrs Doubtfire cake face (which can definitely happen if you occasionally need a good mattifying like yours truly)…

Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream *

The real OG- and one thing I always, always go back to. Last thing at night and first thing in the morning this guy comes out- lips, cuticles and a little bit of eyebrow shaping too; it works wonders whether I’m off for a kip, on a long haul flight or just suffering from inevitable autumn chapped lips and it’s ever so loved for a reason.

Victoria Beckham Matte Bronzing Brick

I’m constantly on the hunt for the perfect natural sun-kissed bronze, and since trying Victoria Beckham’s make up collection this might be a new favourite. I love how buildable this is (great if you’re doing your make up before it’s light outside, meaning it’s very hard to go in too heavy handed with this) and how natural it looks too.

Pixi On The Glow Blush

IMO, one of the best cream blush tints I’ve tried. Glides on like a dream but doesn’t melt away or move during the day either. It comes in all manner of natural shades, and I love this slightly coral pink for a natural flush and glow when my skin needs perking up.

Vieve Brushes *

It’s been a long time since I’ve tried new make up brushes, but these Vieve ones have been a very welcome luxury upgrade to my collection. I’ve been using the Foundation and Powder brushes, and they both are bloody brilliant- with not a single rogue bristle in sight.

NARS Afterglow Palette

The closest you can get to a god tier eyeshadow palette is always going to be a NARS one; they’ve never ever failed me and always have the perfect cocktail of lighter daytime tones and more sparkly rich jewell shades for the evening. It encourages me to be a little braver with my eye make up (even though I think I’m going to be a blush/sparkly rose shadow gal forever).

Benefit Goof Proof Brow Pencil *

Whether you’re just after something to fill in a few gaps, or a product slightly more heavy duty for a full shape- I absolutely love this angled pencil and brush from Benefit. It makes tidying up your brows incredibly easy, and partnered with this Guerlain Mad Eyes brow gel– they’re set for the day.

Fenty Beauty Flyliner

My first foray into Fenty had to be their liquid liner; and this one might be one of the best I’ve used. I love the felt tip (which has slight flex to it making it easy to get a good angle and flick) and the pigment of the colour too. It doesn’t smudge or fade throughout the day and I’ve been nothing short of impressed by this magical liner.

  Victoria Beckham Future Lash Mascara

Oh my GOD. THIS. MASCARA. This is the newest addition to my make up bag (after kindly being given a press sample to try), and good lord it’s good. Not only is it incredibly lengthening and buildable (without ever getting chunky or spidery), but it’s the absolute best mascara when it comes to longevity and removal. Not only does it last all day, but it’s the best mascara I’ve ever removed (which sounds weird, but trust me). It gently pulls off the lashes with water (admittedly very satisfying) and dissolves in a flash- truly magic in every way!

Which make up products do you turn to every day? I’m always on the nosy for new classics!

x

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A weekend at Cabü by the Sea

  (*ad press stay)You’d be forgiven for not having the beautiful seaside Kent hideaway, Cabü by the Sea, on your radar already…

Tucked away along St. Mary’s Bay- a stone’s throw from Dymchurch and Romney Marsh; drive over 30mph (never an issue with yours truly) and you’ll miss it tucked away from the road and cuddled up along the coast. You might be familiar with the modular cabins from a scroll on Instagram; their striking silhouettes peppered along the sea wall and contrasting with the stark landscape next to the ocean. And it feels, as soon as you drive into the turning, that you’re in your own little escape; with just the rabbits and dog walkers passing by behind the gate for company.

And what an escape it is- if you’re after a beautiful pocket less than a couple of hours away from London this feels like it ticks plenty of boxes…

 

 

 

 

 

 

With each cabin equipped with a full kitchen (our microwave doubled up as a convection oven which blew my tiny mind), bedroom (or two, with room for a travel cot) and the cosiest beds with floor to ceiling windows (which means sunrise breakfasts and cosying from the rain are all the more glorious); it’s the perfect bolt hole. Whether you fancy staying put with some films, games and a fire as the rain comes down- or heading out to make the most of everything on your doorstep…

 

 

 

 

 

 

…And thankfully/ they’ve thought of that too. With bikes available to hire so you can explore the coastal path, it’s also a short drive from a number of wonderful little person friendly sights and beautiful beaches. From the sandy stretches of Camber Sands, Dungeness, Rye, Port Lympne and the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch railway being just a handful (so much so we definitely could have stayed at least two nights more to soak up everything). There’s also an outdoor pool (which is heated; but still a bit fresh), sauna and hot tub available for some true r&r- with a deliciously tempting Cabü shop where you can pick up everything from fresh, local dinner and breakfast supplies and pastries, games, books, all the things you didn’t realise you needed but now *need* and obligatory ice cream for pudding at your cabin, too.

 

 

 

 

 

And if that wasn’t enough, it’s both child (and environmentally) friendly too. With bunk beds, travel cots, highchairs and a children’s pool available (as well as snacks, toys and pouches at the Cabü shop)- everything really has been been thought of (there’s also a supermarket a stone’s throw away too for any extras you might need). All making it truly feel like a little home away from home and a really special place to enjoy the Kent coast; whatever the weather.

 

x

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