December through Instagram

31.12.14


Christmas card organisation | Festive coffees and catch-ups | Fan-girling over the whole J.Crew shoe collection | Gripped by Valerie Trierweiler's memoir | Sparkle, it's December! | Revisiting favourite films | Loving Knotty Gal's range of ethical accessories | Perfect PJs for Christmas Eve | Excitement over Presidential mail

Follow me on Instagram and never miss a photo! 

Things I Learned in 2014

29.12.14


So 2014 is nearly at an end- where did the year go?! For me, it's been a year of ups and downs, first and lasts, new and old. I've learned much more about myself then I ever thought, and made some pretty big decisions!

Whilst I'm in reflective mode, here's what I learned in 2014.

Trust your gut. There were times this year when I didn't listen to it...and I should!

It's okay not to finish everything. Thanks to Arianna Huffington and The Third Metric for reinforcing this point.

Mix it up. This year I visited two different cities instead of returning to my usual haunts. It was liberating!

Get those investment pieces. One is on its way to me as I write. The other? A glorious new bed.

Take care of yourself. Get your hair cut regularly, look after your skin and WORK OUT.

Earbuds in every bag. You'll never know when you'll need them.

Some people will let you down. And it's fine- move on to better things (and people!)

Support those that really matter. You'll then find out who your true friends are.

Do what you love. Writing, photography, art, whatever. Do what makes you happy.

Try to stress less and not take everything personally. I'm still working on this one.

What have you learned in 2014? Tell me in the comments or on Twitter. 

White House Week

27.12.14

Check out the President and First Lady's weekly address, this week with a festive theme!



(Official White House Photo by Amanda Lucidon)

The First Lady also spoke to children across the USA as part of the NORAD Tracks Santa program.

And a bonus themed Presidential link- White House Christmas cards from over the past 88 years!

It was also great to look back at some of the White House's highlights on Twitter this year and watch the festive highlights too!

Holiday Sale Round-Up

26.12.14

Take advantage of the season's great sales! This post will be updated regularly, so be sure to bookmark it!

Anthropologie (UK)

Anthropologie: Up to 50% off! 


Bergdorf Goodman: Up to 60% off!

NET-A-PORTER

Net A Porter: Up to 70% off!

TOMS (UK)

TOMS: Up to 40% off!

Tory Burch: Up to 50% off!


French Sole: 50% off sale

House of Fraser

House of Fraser: Up to 50% off!

Vince Camuto UK

Vince Camuto: Up to 50% off!

Vestiaire Collective

Vestiaire Collective: Up to 30% off sale!

Women in Business: Q&As for The Huffington Post in 2014

24.12.14


As many of you will know, I'm a regular contributor to The Huffington Post blog section. I'm currently writing about women in business and have had some amazing opportunities to speak to a whole host of great women who are making their mark in the business world. 

From start-up to CEO, I've had a fascinating year learning more about these women and how they run their businesses. 

Some of my favourite Q&As this year have included speaking to branding guru Michela Aramini, Founder of The Lovely It Girl, Christina Mercando, Founder of Ringly, Kim Getty from Deutsch and Christine Perkett, one of the Top 100 Must Follow Marketing Minds for 2014 and CEO of SeeDepth.

On the fashion front, I have loved speaking to Nur-E Farhana Rahman, co-founder of Knotty Gal and Emelyn Northway and Dorie Golkin, Founders of the amazing workwear brand Of Mercer. It was a great privilege to speak to the legendary Cornelia Guest, and one Q&A which I will never forget.    

As an individual working in communications, it was equally as fascinating to chat to Peggy Maher, CMO at Barclaycard US and Jennefer Witter, CEO and Founder of The Boreland Group. 

Truth be told, all the women I've spoken to are inspirational, each with their own story to tell and their unique advice to share. Whether you're a woman in business, or starting your career in a different industry, these Q&As contain something that we can all take away and implement into our own lives. I defy you to not be inspired! 

Click here to read these Q&As and many more. You can also keep up to date with my Q&As by becoming a fan here. 

Fashion Spotlight: ASH + AMES

22.12.14

ASH + AMES
If you're looking for some new jewels to start 2015 off with a bang, make sure you take a look at ASH + AMES! Carry on reading for my exclusive interview with Trish and Amy, the brand's creative duo!

ASH+AMES was born from the collaborative vision of two friends, Trisha and Amy, in their continued efforts to help women like themselves live better, more balanced and complete lives.

Together, Trisha & Amy wrote three best-selling books including "I Was A Really Good Mom Before I Had Kids." Their candid, empathetic voice hit a nerve among moms nationwide and led to them being featured on programs such as Oprah, The Today Show and 20/20.

On the heels of that success, the two found themselves asking a question familiar to all women and mothers, "What's my next chapter?" Their answer became ASH + AMES, a brand focused on inspiring women to balance their personal needs with the fulfillment of developing a business of their own, empowering female artisans around the globe and giving back to developing countries.

Tell us about ASH + AMES and the story behind its creation.

We’ve worked together for 10 years and have always been driven by the desire to empower women.  We’ve co-authored three best-selling books (I Was a Really Good Mom Before I Had Kids, Dirty Little Secrets From Otherwise Perfect Moms and I’d Trade My Husband for a Housekeeper), and have Executive Produced a TV show for Lifetime (based on the books).

After that, we asked ourselves the question of ‘what’s our next chapter?’  We weren’t sure – and at the same time had started traveling to Haiti repeatedly to volunteer.  We noticed that female Haitian artisans were creating these gorgeous cuffs out of discarded cow horn, and we bought them for our friends, who also loved them.  That sparked an idea – what if we could launch a luxe jewelry brand that supports female artisans around the globe, while giving back to developing countries?  That’s how ASH + AMES was born.

 How is ASH + AMES different to other brands? 

We’re the first brand to curate high end, special pieces from female artisans around the globe and offer them to our audience via next gen social retail (Ambassadors around the country who sell ASH + AMES via cocktail parties, pop up boutiques, 1:1 selling).  Our model doesn’t include brick and mortar for a reason; this way, we’re able to better support our Ambassadors and artisans.

Tell us about the inspiration behind your designs and the creative process. 

We get inspiration from a lot of different sources – traveling around the globe to spectacular places finding our artisans (from Sri Lanka to Paris to Haiti), living in two fantastic urban cities (Amy’s in New York and Trisha’s in Chicago), even our families.  When we’re together we share our thoughts and start to brainstorm what we want the next season to look like.

What tips can you offer those who are seeking to start a business with a friend? 

We were warned not to partner with a good friend many times!  For us, it’s been an amazing journey of growth, learning, mutual respect and creativity.  Our union works because we’re open and honest with each other, and we understand what our strengths and weaknesses are.  We’re almost always instinctually on the same wavelength (most people can’t tell us apart on the phone!) yet our skill sets differ in a truly complimentary way.  It’s a really good marriage.

Who would you love to see wearing one of your designs?

We’re thrilled that Beyonce and Jessica Alba are coveting our pieces!  We continue to get requests for our jewelry from inspirational women who love our mission, which is what makes us happy.

What are you hoping to achieve in 2015? 

2015 for us is all about brand awareness – ensuring that women nationwide know who ASH + AMES is, so that we can grow our support of our female artisans and give substantially back to Haiti, our first developing country.

Describe ASH + AMES in three words.

Gorgeous.  Global.  Giving.


White House Week

20.12.14

This week saw the historic announcement that diplomatic relations would be reopened between the United States and Cuba. Read the President's statement below:

"Yesterday, after more than 50 years, we began to change America's relationship with the people of Cuba.

We are recognizing the struggle and sacrifice of the Cuban people, both in the U.S. and in Cuba, and ending an outdated approach that has failed to advance U.S. interests for decades. In doing so, we will begin to normalize relations between our two countries.

I was born in 1961, just over two years after Fidel Castro took power in Cuba, and just as the U.S. severed diplomatic relations with that country.

Our complicated relationship with this nation played out over the course of my lifetime -- against the backdrop of the Cold War, with our steadfast opposition to communism in the foreground. Year after year, an ideological and economic barrier hardened between us.

That previous approach failed to promote change, and it's failed to empower or engage the Cuban people. It's time to cut loose the shackles of the past and reach for a new and better future with this country.

First, I have instructed Secretary of State John Kerry to immediately begin discussions with Cuba to re-establish diplomatic relations that have been severed since 1961. Going forward, we will re-establish an embassy in Havana, and high-ranking officials will once again visit Cuba.

Second, I have also instructed Secretary Kerry to review Cuba's designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism -- a review guided by the facts and the law. At a time when we are focused on threats from ISIL and al Qaeda, a nation that meets our conditions and renounces terrorism should not face such a sanction.

Third, we'll take steps to increase travel, commerce, and the flow of information to -- and from -- Cuba. These steps will make it easier for Americans to travel to Cuba. They will make it easier for Americans to conduct authorized trade with Cuba, including exports of food, medicine, and medical products to Cuba. And they will facilitate increased telecommunications connections between our two countries: American businesses will be able to sell goods that enable Cubans to communicate with the United States and other countries.

These changes don't constitute a reward or a concession to Cuba. We are making them because it will spur change among the people of Cuba, and that is our main objective.

Change is hard -- especially so when we carry the heavy weight of history on our shoulders.

Our country is cutting that burden loose to reach for a better future.

Thank you,

President Barack Obama."

The President and First Lady also celebrated Hanukkah.



This week, the Vice President and Dr Biden dedicated five trees at the Naval Observatory, recognising each branch of the US Armed Forces. Capturing their personal experiences, military families from all across the country handcrafted the ornaments that adorn the trees. Atop each tree is a gold star, embodying the spirit, bravery, and patriotism of those who serve.

Earlier this month, Dr. Biden hosted a holiday celebration in honor of our military, veterans, and their families at the Vice President’s Residence. "We owe thanks today, and everyday, to those who wear the uniform. And we owe a debt of gratitude to their families because, as all of you know, when you have a family who serves in the military, the whole family serves too," Dr. Biden said.

Dr. Biden places an ornament of the National Guard Memorial on a holiday tree in her office at the White House, in Washington, D.C., December 12, 2014. (Photo by SSG Michelle Gonzalez, National Guard Bureau)

Pinterest Christmas Inspiration

19.12.14

I've really embraced Pinterest this year for Christmas decorating and food ideas. There are so many great ideas out there, and the site makes it all look so easy! There seems to be a clear theme running through many of the pins that I have pinned- red and green! It's so traditional and what we do in our household, and I love seeing the other ways to incorporate the theme over the festive season.

What Christmas inspiration have you found on Pinterest? Let me know!




The President and First Lady attend Christmas in Washington taping

17.12.14





We are loving the First Lady's black and gold sleeveless dress, and how fab do Malia and Sasha look?!

Kevin Spacey: The Levo League Office Hours Interview

17.12.14

Levo League
Here's a must watch middle of the week video for you- the amazing Kevin Spacey interviewed for Levo League's inspiring Office Hours! Don't miss it! 

Eyewear Inspiration: Madam Secretary

15.12.14


I've been wearing glasses since I was three, debuting many a style in my time! I think my favourites were a pair of pink glasses, the others a metallic blue shade.

My current pair of glasses are by Ray-Ban, and on my favourite show, Madam Secretary, Secretary Elizabeth McCord (played by Tea Leoni) sports a similar pair. I really love these glasses- they frame the face in a strong way, and the thick frames are totally chic. When I next need to update my prescription I'll be looking to Secretary McCord for inspiration!

via

White House Christmas 2014

13.12.14

First Lady Michelle Obama poses with the 2014 White House Christmas ornament, Dec. 3, 2014. (Official WH Photo by Chuck Kennedy)
Feeling festive? You certainly will be once you've taken a look at this special White House Christmas post!



Find out more about tthe 3D printed ornament challenge

Download tthe 2014 Holiday Tour Book 

Download the Bo and Sunny wrapping paper, matching gift tags and the gingerbread cookies recipe!

The White House
For a further look at a White House Christmas past and present click here. 

Knotty Gal's Kickstarter Campaign

12.12.14

Who doesn't love a large, statement necklace that gives back? Enter Knotty Gal and their Kickstarter campaign!

As the brainchild of mother-daughter duo Nur-E Gulshan Rahman and Nur-E Farhana Rahman, Knotty Gal is the producer of one-of-a-kind knotted, handmade accessories for a cause! 
Knotty Gal’s pieces are designed by the pair and hand-crafted by Nur-E Gulshan Rahman, who incorporates intricate knots into bold, colorful, and one-of-a-kind statement pieces. Each of Knotty Gal’s necklaces, bracelets, and earrings is made from a combination of carefully selected cords and metals to produce a modern take on classic knots.  

Delightfully “knotty” by nature, the line is equally as “nice” in purpose. Knotty Gal is the result of the founders’ desire to raise funds for the Bhandari Girls’ School in Bogra, Bangladesh. Founded in 1962 by Nur-E Farhana’s great-grandfather, the institution was one of the first all-girls’ schools in the region. Today, the student body has swelled to over 1,200 girls, the majority of whom come from impoverished backgrounds.

Knotty Gal
After visiting the school in 2011 and seeing the overcrowded classrooms, lack of educational materials, and overall lack of resources, Nur-E Farhana knew something had to be done. She and her mother decided to combine their creative passions with their desire to help and create an accessories line that would resonate with knotty gals everywhere. A portion of all Knotty Gal proceeds directly benefits the Bhandari Girls’ School. 

Knotty Gal's current Kickstarter campaign will help the company to expand their efforts, allowing them to scale up their manufacturing, increase distribution and marketing the brand to a larger audience. 

The campaign ends on December 17th and backers have the opportunity to receive a number of unique Knotty Gal products and benefits as part of their donation. A donation also makes the perfect Christmas gift for a friend or loved one! Don't miss out on your chance to back a wonderful brand and individual who is committed to giving back and doing good!


Sweet Dreams with Savvy Sleepers

10.12.14

There's nothing better than collapsing onto my comfy bed after a long day of work! I recently bought a new bed and it's the cosiest thing in the world. Linens are also important for a great night's sleep and I was excited to try a luxury pillowcase from Savvy Sleepers that promises to be healthier for both your skin and hair.

Dale Janée, founder of Savvy Sleepers has created a 100% pure polyester satin pillowcases that are smoother for hair and skin, and have a  secret patent-pending pocket that can be used for hair ties, love notes, or even your lip balm. The luxurious satin has a soothing matte finish and is available in unisex shades appealing to men and women.

After using the pillowcase for one night I immediately felt rested and my hair was as smooth as when I went to bed! My sleep as definitely improved since using the pillowcase and it is so relaxing to drift off lying on satin!

If you're looking to improve your bedtime habits I'd definitely recommend checking out Savvy Sleepers and seeing how their gorgeous pillowcases can change your sleep pattern for the better.


* I was sent a Savvy Sleeper pillowcase to review for this post.*

Michelle Obama wears Monique Lhuillier to Kennedy Center Honors

8.12.14

How amazing does the First Lady look in her blush embellished gown by Monique Lhuillier?!

 

FIGI Jeans

8.12.14

I spend half of my life wearing jeans, so finding the right pair is always top of my to-do list. Enter FIGI Jeans, a premium denim brand for women that is rewriting the denim industry!

My jean preference is skinny and dark, so I was thrilled with my pair of the classic Muse jean. It is made from super soft light-weight twill and the cut is absolutely perfect, allowing me to wear the Muse with flats one day, and boots the next.

FIGI Jeans are smart enough to wear to dress down day at the office, and are the perfect transition for a night out with friends, or to wear whilst running errands. They really are the perfect jean!


Check out how I styled a recent look with my pair of Muse jeans below.


FIGI Jeans c/o / Striped Tee, Tesco / Black Cardigan, Banana Republic / Black Booties, Minelli 

Fashion Spotlight: Mo Bacchus Designs

5.12.14


I came across Mo Bacchus Designs on Twitter and immediately fell in love with her cuff bracelets. Mo shares with us why she loves making accessories and what inspires her in the creative process. Hope you find her as interesting as I do!

"I decided to do a fashion and design course in how to design develop and learn the different aspects of the business. I stumbled on accessories when it was required as part of my course.  I started making up little cloth bags for presents and then one day a friend said you need to start selling these.

I started at Portobello fashion market which was probably the most amazing place to be in the 90s until 2005.  I started with a small bag of scrap leather which I paid £4 for and some scrap fabric. I made bags up which people paid for!  After about two years I came up with a slouch bag that gained a lot of kudos. In fact I had a lot of girls from America come to my stand specifically to buy this bag. Press and whole orders from around the world followed. The kudos though, masked my inexperience."

What inspired you to start designing?
It seemed like a natural progression as I've been making clothes since I was a little girl.  I was taught to sew knit and crotchet as child.

What is the process behind your creations?
I wish I was disciplined enough to have a process. I kind of potter around for a bit and decide in an instinct what leather I'm using and for which style of bag. I prefer to play around with leather before I sketch, but I'm not wedded to a formula.

What designs are you currently working on? 
I have a top handle bag that I'm working on. On this piece I do have to exert some discipline!

Who would you love to see wearing some of your pieces? 
I like looking at people who have a strong sense of self and style. That's the kind of person I love seeing carrying one my bags.

What advice can you offer to someone who is thinking starting their own business? 
Be very disciplined with book keeping, set sales targets, roll your sleeves up and believe in the impossible.  

What are your plans for your business over the next year? 
Next year is about expanding the customer base and starting my own little factory.

Check out Mo's Etsy store here.


The Political Style Gift Guide

4.12.14

I'm super excited to share with you all the first ever Political Style Gift Guide! Inside the pages you'll find some great gift ideas for friends and family, as well as some top treats for you!

I've included some of my favourite brands and small businesses, and I hope you enjoy reading the gift guide!

Thanks to the talented Sara at One Beat Designs for the awesome design work!




Christmas Confidence: Project Gravitas and Red Stamp Holiday Cards

3.12.14

Project Gravitas
For the Holiday season, Project Gravitas, the socially conscious  online fashion brand that aims to give every woman a confident sense of self, and Red Stamp greeting cards collaborate on the Confidence Collection, a series of eight unique greeting cards designed to inspire the ideal Project Gravitas woman to own her moment. The card's savvy messages allow you to wish someone luck on an interview, remind her that she's a rock star, or tell her that you believe in her.

Project Gravitas
In addition, Erin Newkirk, CEO & Founder of Red Stamp greeting cards, will be featured on ProjectGravitas.com as the December Women of Gravitas, a monthly campaign designed to celebrate inspiring women and the charities most important to them. Project Gravitas will donate 10% of proceeds from the sale of their Sonja dress to benefit Share Our Strength, the national organization working to end childhood hunger across the country.

Project Gravitas

November through Instagram

1.12.14


Moment of reflection at St John's Church | Chanel flats | Chanel buttons | Made in America patriotic goods | Brooks Brothers meets FitBit | Architectural Digest inspiration | the month of Taylor | magazine catch-up | J.Crew leopard rainboots 

One Beat Designs Mlekoshi playground