Red Hot Florals

The weather in UK is still falling behind. The trees are still bare, flowers are still sleeping, nature seems to be a little lazy this year. It's already May but the temperature reminds me of winter in Hong Kong. To bring myself a little closer to Summer I decided to bring florals to my clothes. Modelling is my 6ft tall friend Ailsa, the sailor girl with the never ending legs! It also happens to be her Birthday today. Happy Birthday my dear friend of 13 years! You are beautiful inside and out and certainly one of the most wonderfully weird people i know! Please don't ever change yourself for anyone!

Happy 100th Birthday Sir Norman

Although this one amazing photographer is no longer with us, lets celebrate some of his amazing work on the day that would have been his 100th birthday. Born 21st April 1913, Sir Norman Parkinson is one of fashion photography's pioneers. He changed the history of the fashion industry. He had worked with the most prestigious publications like Harper's Bazaar and Vogue. He has also worked with the most influential people in the world such as The Beatles, The Queen's Mother, Margret Thatcher,  Miss Audrey Hepburn, amongst many others. Whether black and white or colour images, his craftsmanship shows through in every shot. His work tells stories, whether through humour or glamour, they will sure capture the hearts of any viewer. Happy Birthday Sir Norman! Thank you for inspiring my generation... and many generations to come!

Any Gentleman Out There?

Another dress up project with my cousin hehe

Another dress up project with my cousin hehe!

Travel With Elle: Glasgow

I would like to introduce you to my third home: Glasgow, Scotland. Half of my family are based in Glasgow, therefore i regularly travel up there. Glasgow offers a unique Scottish experience with great food, world class museums, boutiques and most of all... ANTIQUES. I could easily spend hours wondering the streets of Dumbarton Road. Full of second-hand charity shops and vintage outlets, it is a must visit destination every time i'm in town. After some antique hunting, treat yourself to a cup of latte in one of their quirky cafes. I've become good friends with some of the owners of the antique shops... they are just lovely to chat with and they have great knowledge of every piece in their shop. 

Pin Me Up Girl

I am fascinated by the glamour of the 1940s pin up girls. Seductive, feminine and ever so alluring. Here is my quick attempt to bring a little glamour back. The signature flick or eyeliner and classic red lip teamed with side parted wavy hair creates the perfect look that is wearable even during the day.

Wearing: Mac eyeshadow in Sparkle Neely, Sparkle. Lipstick: No. 7 Starlet. Eyeliner: Kate. 

Blush by CANCAM. Deep side parting for the hair and simple waves.

My eyebrows aren't usually this arched, but for this look, i had to draw them on with a strong shape and conceal parts to make them fit the era. 

DIY Headpiece. It used to be a sequin cape but i turned it into a rather glamorous turban by stitching it together on top of a head mould and then added on a vintage brooch for

extra detail. 

Exhibition with Bowes!

I am so excited to have my work displayed at Bowes museum. Displayed alongside the Lucile -Fashion Designer, Titanic Survivor exhibition, it is now up and until January 23rd! Photos will be posted when i get them...watch this space!

For those who are unfamiliar with Bowes, it is situated in the quiet countryside of County Durham... it is a hidden treasure. The history of Bowes tells a wonderful love story of John and Josephine Bowes. Like the perfect love story, they met and fell in love under the Eiffel tower. John was a successful businessman and the beautiful Josephine was a Parisian actress. They soon married and returned to England, Barnard Castle,  John's hometown. With their shared passion in art and painting, they began their grand project on building a world-class museum and gallery. In 1869, Josephine laid down the first foundation stone. They bought in treasures from around the world and one piece that particularly captured their hearts was the 'Silver Swan Music Box '. Bought in 1872, it remains today as the museums most prized piece. Their happiness was short lived when suddenly Josephine passed away. Heart broken, John could not carry on the project and his health declined and passed away a few years later. Josephine's wish of laying the top stone was never carried out.

Their love is represented by the Silver Swan, where it is put to work only once a day. At 2pm precisely, the swan comes to life, dancing and enchanting the audience. Every time i watch it, it moves me greatly... 

Travel with Elle: Brighton

So part one is all about the beautiful tourist attractions, now part two is about the heart of BRIGHTON! Brighton is well known for it's bohemian vibe with many artists, craftsmen and happy-go-lucky locals. The seaside city is surrounded with quirky boutiques where you can find one-off pieces. There are many antique shops around town, with 'Snoopers Paradise' being one of the busiest. North Laine is your equivalent of trendy Soho. With streets full of outdoor cafes, bars, shops and art galleries... expect to spend a couple of days there for a true experience!