Girl Once known As

Quote of the Day

2012-01-10T18:22:00.000Z

"The time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time."
Bertrand Russell

Halloween Nails

2011-10-29T20:00:00.001+01:00

I'm feeling very sorry for myself as I'm missing out on a halloween party tonight due to an overwhelming amount of accountancy revision. To cheer myself up a bit I gave myself halloween nails using a couple of coats of nails inc. varnish in 'Victoria' and a cocktail stick.

More Revision Nails

2011-10-28T21:45:00.002+01:00

Sorry I never show you guys anything else these days.

No.7 Stay Perfect Nail Colour in Hot to Trot
Barry M Instant Effects Nail Paint in Black
and Rimmel Pro Super Wear Ultra Shine Top Coat

College Work

2011-09-25T22:04:00.003+01:00

My nails never look better than when I am doing college work.

Missguided polish in Misscellaneous
No7 Stay Perfect Nail Colour in Hot to Trot

Leopard print created with Collection 2000 Fast Stroke Eyeliner following the tutorial by Gem Fatale.

Quote of the Day

2011-08-29T18:43:00.002+01:00

"My wife and I were happy for twenty years. Then we met."
Rodney Dangerfield
US actor & comedian (1921 - 2004)

Multicoloured

2011-08-14T11:11:00.003+01:00

Wearing from left to right
Barry M in Bright Purple
No7 Stay Perfect in Pink Grapefruit
Barry M in Cyan Blue
Nails Inc in Piccadilly Circus
Nails Inc in Belgrave Place
Barry M Instant Nails Effects in Black

Bright multicoloured nails provide a good distraction from revision. I was late to the crackle party (as with everything) but I like the way it pulls all these different colours into one theme. Comparing the effect over different colours I think I like it best over the blue and dark pink on the middle and ring finger. One thing I have noticed is that if you apply the crackle polish over a thin base coat of colour it tends to crack the polish underneath too. I don't know if the same thing happens with other brands but if you are using the Barry M one make sure you have a thick base to work with before applying it.

If Only...

2011-07-20T00:36:00.003+01:00

...If only I didn't have a 'sensible' job I would be doing this to my hair. I would still have my nose stud in too.

Image from Luuux.com

Image from haircolorsideas.com

What does a girl wear in Paris?

2011-05-30T20:13:00.001+01:00

This was the question that vexed me prior to my trip last month. For the tourist and shopping activities we had planned an outfit of jeans and trainers would have been practical but I couldn't begin to comtemplate being practical in Paris. In addition to the outfits in my previous post I also wore this.

Jacket Next
White Shirt Charity Shop
Skirt River Island
Shoes Marks and Spencer

I love this orange skirt. It's excellent for colour blocking. It is very full though leading to a number of revealing moments after getting caught in gusts of wind!

Paris

2011-04-06T14:09:00.003+01:00

Sorry for the radio silence this weekend. I have been in Paris!

Scarf Market Stall
Cardigan Charity Shop
Dress Charity Shop then shortened by Me
Bag Fiorelli

Scarf Market Stall
Jacket Next
T-Shirt Dorothy Perkins
Skirt & Belt River Island
Bag Fiorelli
Boots Jane Shilton

Hand Chains

2011-03-27T22:27:00.002+01:00

Hand chains I made before christmas. 'And you're only just posting them?' I know! This blog is neglected. The once a week posting routine is working out pretty well for me though. How is it for you? I made them using chains, one thin gold, the other a mid thickness silver, jump rings and magnetic claps making it easy to get them done up around the wrist but meaning I spend a lot of time detaching myself from metallic objects.

p.s. I'm not naked in these photos. Just wearing a strapless top.

Another College Outfit

2011-03-19T20:32:00.000Z

Scarf New Look
Jacket Charity Shop originally Per Una
Dress Warehouse
Belt ASOS
Bag Accessorize
Socks Next
Boots Jane Shilton

When my weeks at college come around I revel in not having to wear my 'business casual' work wear. Here's another outfit I put together. Very neutral (except for the giant bag I have to carry around with all my work in it), very girly. Sorry again for the crappy camera phone picture. I now have my usual camera back.

Plaid Skirt Another Way

2011-03-13T20:47:00.000Z

Jumper Debenhams
Scarf Market Stall
Skirt Charity Shop
Shoes Next

I wore my plaid midi skirt again the other day for college. I decided to go for a more lady like look this time teaming it with a grey jumper, scarf and patent lace up shoes. I am sorry for the crappy camera phone picture. I temporarily misplaced my camera.

A Work in Progress

2011-02-27T20:31:00.000Z

Do you remember this coat? Probably not. The above is one of the very few times I wore it. It's one of those things that I loved when I bought then realised that it didn't go with very much in my wardrobe. While having a clear out the other day I decided that rather than donate it to a charity shop I would try to refashion it as it is a lovely fit and makes a good light weight coat for spring. All that was wrong was the colour. I thought long and hard about what colour to dye it to, what I would get the most wear out of and what colour was missing from my wardrobe. In the end I settled for a navy blue, Dylon Navy Blue, to be specific.

I forgot about the polyester stitching of course. My mother loves the contrast stitching and buttons, I hate it. Now I am faced with the task of unpicking all that top stitching, crossing my fingers that it is just top stitching and the whole thing won't fall apart if I undo it. I'm also wondering about buttons. Navy blue or gold?

Quote of the Day

2011-02-24T23:04:00.001Z

"The difference between a democracy and a dictatorship is that in a democracy you vote first and take orders later; in a dictatorship you don't have to waste your time voting.": Charles Bukowski

Quote of the Day

2011-02-22T06:46:00.000Z

"The trouble with the rat race is that even if you win, you're still a rat."
Lily Tomlin

Plaid Midi Skirt

2011-02-18T21:25:00.002Z

Jacket and Skirt Charity Shops
Boots Dorothy Perkins

Charity shops are excellent places to find midi length skirts. I bought this plaid high waisted one for just £1.70! Worn with my leather jacket, also from a charity shop, Dorothy Perkins boots, thick cotton tights and black socks, as it's still pretty cold over here.

Quote of the Day

2011-02-17T06:47:00.000Z

"Imagine if every Thursday your shoes exploded if you tied them the usual way. This happens to us all the time with computers, and nobody thinks of complaining.": Jef Raskin

The Forgotten Shirt

2011-02-13T10:47:00.002Z

Shirt Charity Shop
Bandeau Top Peacocks
Jeans Dorothy Perkins very old and too short so I only wear them rolled up
Shoes ASOS

I can't believe I never posted this mens shirt as one of my charity shop finds! I've had it years, since before I went to Kazakhstan, when plaid shirts were fashionable on the high street. It's probably one of the things that I've bought in a charity shop that I have worn the most. It's 100% wool so it's really warm and I find myself wearing like a coat throughout spring and autum.

p.s. The shoes are new from ASOS and super high but I love them! Not actually tried to walk outside of my own house in them yet though.

2011-02-08T20:51:00.002Z

Okay so my biggest refering URLs have suddenly become 'Adult Friend Finder' and slimming sites, WTF?!? I don't really know how this happened or what it means but I would hate for there ever to be anything on this blog which might seriously offend anyone. If you spot anything suspicious please let me know.

Max C London Spotted Chiffon Blouse

2011-02-07T07:59:00.001Z

Wore the Max C top that I won in the giveaway over at Sadie's Wardrobe to work a while back. I've been very slow in posting this probably because I didn't feel that the blouse really suited me and have since donated it to a better home. There was nothing wrong with it at all it just wasn't me.

p.s. this photo was taken in my grandma's house hence all the random things in the background.

Skins Series 5 Episode 2

2011-02-04T00:50:00.002Z

Wow, we got through a whole episode without anyone taking any illegal drugs.

Skins Series 5 Update

2011-01-29T00:19:00.003Z

Okay, just watched the first episode of series 5. We already have drug taking, crime and potential mental health issues but I am finding the focus on bullying and the portrayal of some of the characters as outsiders interesting. With the exception of perhaps, Sid and JJ in the first and second generations this is a new direction for the series. We will see where this goes.

Skins vs The Inbetweeners

2011-01-28T23:23:00.002Z

With the fifth series of skins out in the uk and the american version causing controversy I thought I would share a few thoughts about the program. Here are my predictions for the third generation cast. One of them will be killed off at the end of the sixth series. One will suffer mental health problems. One or more will have a sexual relationship with at least two other members of the cast. They will take alot of drugs. I enjoy the show but is it an accurate portrayal of the life of the average british teenager? No, I don't think so.

Compare skins to another program about british teenagers in their sixth form years. The Inbetweeners. Another brilliant but totally different program that far more accurately portrays my teenage experience. Always somewhere in the middle, not cool but not a total loser either. All my attempts to live the cool teenage life I thought I should be living generally ending in disappointment. Getting drunk at the end of year ball, throwing up and generally embarrassing myself.

What was/is your teenage experience more comparable to?

Wardrobe Rehab

2011-01-22T15:09:00.000Z

I am I the only one that can't face undertaking a wardrobe rehab project along the lines of that done by A Pair and a Spare? Since moving out I now have two wardrobes full of clothes, one at home and one in London and I still have regular 'I have nothing to wear' moments. Yet this actually makes sense to me as I have in effect four different sets of clothes; Work clothes, going out clothes, casual clothes and extra casual clothes for exercising and lounging around at home. I do have regular culls of my wardrobe probably about every six months but they are pretty ineffective. I am not very good at throwing away. I would love to have a small cohesive wardobe in which everything was good quality, well fitting and made me feel fabulous but for me that would pretty much mean starting from scratch. I just can't do it.

This is the current state of my wardrobe at home. The one in London looks pretty similar.

Do I need help?

From Grandma

2011-01-16T22:30:00.000Z

When Grandma announced that she was having a clear out and throwing all the stuff away I asked if I could have a look first. Below are pictures of all the things I saved from the bin.

Her high school badge from before the Second World War

An old lighter I guess must have been my Grandad's. It doubles as a tape measure.

Hand Made Christmas Year Two

2011-01-08T22:41:00.002Z

I know I'm super late with this. My blog has really been going to the dogs lately and I'm getting kind of sick with starting every post with an apology so I'm not going to anymore. I'll post when I post, no apologies. Anyway, remember how last year I tried to have an 'ethical' christmas? If not read about it here, here, and here. This year I did buy alot of my presents (yes, I tend to be more 'ethical' when I am sort of cash) but I still decided to hand make or bake presents for some of my friends and family.

The necklace below was a gift for a friend. I think my jewellery making has come a long way from sticking bits of puzzle together last year.

I also made necklaces for three other friends and my nanny (grandmother) but I didn't actually finish them all or have any wrapped until New Years Eve when I was due to hand them over and in the rush I forgot to take pictures. The necklace I made for one of my best friends was a shorter version of this one because we are like peas in a pod :) Another was a version of this necklace using a heart charm instead of a locket. For the third friend I made a version of this necklace minus the bow using bronze chain and the bronze coloured pearls from a necklace in this post and it was much shorter, so totally different really. For my nanny I made her a long gold necklace with this charm from the bead shop. She had a stroke around a year ago and lost the feeling in her fingers so she can no longer work the clasps on necklaces and can only wear ones that she can put over her head.

My aunts, uncles and cousin were again 'treated' to my home baking. This year I made oat cookies (though they came out hard more like biscuits) in plain, raisin and dark chocolate chip.

Quote of the Day

2011-01-06T19:56:00.000Z

"Anger is the feeling that makes your mouth work faster than your mind."
Evan Esar

Christmas e-mail Year Two

2010-12-24T13:03:00.001Z

Time for my second annual Christmas e-mail. I've edited a few bits of out this as just I don't want to publish which company I work for here on the internet.

Dear Everyone

Merry Christmas! (Or ‘Season’s Greetings!’ to my non-Christian friends) It’s that time of year again and time for my annual Christmas e-mail. Yes, I am still too lazy to collect your addresses and send cards. For those of you who really aren’t interested please find a summary of my year below.

I got a job. I lost my job. I got another job.

Intrigued? Read on below.

Anyone still reading? Okay then, let’s get started. Casting my mind back to January 2010 I was working part time and was right in the middle of the graduate job hunt facing the same experience as so many others of watching the rejections pile up and my options dwindle. Things began to look up in February after what felt like a good performance at the Audit Commission assessment centre. By March I had been offered a job starting in September. I breathed a sigh of relief and decided to enjoy what would be my last summer of freedom without the responsibility of a ‘gown up’ job.

That whole idea came crashing spectacularly down on Friday 13^th August. ‘Have you seen the news today?’ my Step Dad asked as he came in the door that evening. ‘No, oh god, has my holiday company gone bust?’ I asked. ‘No, the Audit Commission has been abolished’. A week of anxiety followed as the Audit Commission debated their future and decided what to do with the 80 odd graduates they had starting in September. The call finally came while I was lying on a beach in Ibiza. They had decided that they were not going to be able to honour our offers of employment. I was obviously pretty upset about this and found myself in tears while an impromptu party erupted around me on our boat back from the beach complete with a CD on repeat, a man playing a conch shell and containers of sangria that would have looked more at home in a chemistry lab.

So it was back to the graduate job hunt for me. Having once secured a graduate job in audit I decided to stick with the same theme. I was pretty dismayed when the rejections started coming in again. I was starting to run out of options when an invitation came through to attend an assessment centre with *. Having already been rejected by some much less prestigious accountancy firms I was not feeling all that confident about it but off I headed to London anyway. I had my assessment centre on the Wednesday, I was offered a job in Public Sector Audit on the Friday and I started on the following Monday. I needed somewhere to live quick sharp so my Grand Mother who lives in a commuter area found herself with a lodger. I’ve not really done that much work yet having spent a large amount of time studying for my first round of exams but I have enjoyed the work I have done so far.

It’s funny how some of the seemingly most important decisions in life happen almost entirely by accident but somehow it works out. If you believe in that kind of thing you could call it fate. I had the time of my life at Essex University. Yet up until June of that year I was bound for Nottingham until a sudden late night realisation that my future did not lie in Biological Science and many frantic calls to UCAS ended with me picking at random from the few universities that still had spaces for politics, it was an election year, and rolling up in October to a place I had never even visited. And so it is with my career. I certainly never saw myself training as an accountant or a calculator becoming a permanent feature in my handbag! I was sure that my career path would start in a public sector organisation. Instead I find myself working in London in something of a corporate suit environment albeit with public sector clients. But that is the way it has turned out and I’m enjoying it so far. I’ve not been there long but I feel * is a good fit for me currently. I finally have a ‘grown up’ job. This was confirmed by the arrival of my pension information this morning.

So December sees me training to be an accountant and living with my Grand Mother. Luckily I have never been cool or I might see my life less positively than I currently do. I have little idea what the next year will hold, except a whole load more accountancy exams (providing I passed the last round. If I didn’t I will yet again find myself without a job so please keep your collective fingers crossed for me) but I’ll be sure to tell you about it next year.

Catherine x

p.s. Festive pictures of icy berry and dear in snow were actually taken last December. I am now one of those ‘time poor’ people.

Bag Envy

2010-12-19T12:52:00.000Z

It really comes to something when you start to envy your Grandma's shopping bag.

Those kittens are just so cute.

Is this normal?

2010-12-19T01:05:00.001Z

I returned the shoes

Urgent

2010-12-14T20:44:00.003Z

I need your help girls and boys. Do I keep the shoes or return the shoes? They are ASOS BLACK BASQUE Leather Zip Curve Wedge. On the one hand I was never taken with the odd mesh bit at the back and I'm still not, I think it distorts the shape of the shoe at the back; they are difficult to walk in; I have no where to wear them and I should really be saving my money so I can like move out but on the other hand I fell in love with them the moment I saw their little picture on the site. What should I do? Lots of pictures included to help you.

Quote of the Day

2010-12-11T10:28:00.001Z

"If you are not criticized, you may not be doing much."
Donald H. Rumsfeld

Grey Smoky Eyes Pt. Three

2010-12-05T23:38:00.000Z

Final post of my mediocre eye makeup attempts for a while I promise. I know my more popular posts are sewing or DIY posts, even just outfits, but I don't have the time for them at the moment and I've always felt that purely outfits posts were kind of vain. Now I am vain don't get me wrong, I'm just not sure that I want the whole internet to see it. I do have a stockpile of outfit photos from a while back when I got in the habit of taking a picture of every outfit I wore to work out what worked and more importantly what didn't. I may dig them out. I'm hoping too to get some sewing and DIYing done over christmas but after all this revision and work I'm doing it is quite likely that most of my time over the holidays will be spent either in bed or in front of the TV.

Anyway I created the look below using just Boot's 17 Solo Eye Shadow in Midnight Pearl. More dramatic that pt.two less dramatic than my usual mix of black and grey. Good for casual nights out.

Maxi Dress Two Ways

2010-11-30T21:13:00.000Z

One Red Herring Maxi Dress

For college with New Look Jacket, Dorothy Perkins Boots and Self Made Necklace

And for dinner with Charity Shop Leather Jacket, ASOS Wedges and Same Self Made Necklace.

I don't think I'll be wearing this dress for casual things again, well nothing that invloves alot of walking. I just can't flippin move in the thing. I do like to stride around. Having to continually hitch it up to my thighs just to navigate London was a pain and not a good look. This is the second dress I've bought recently that I've been perfectly happy with then as soon as I've stepped out the front door realised I couldn't walk properly in. I may have to devise a changing room stride test.

Grey Smoky Eyes Pt. Two

2010-11-27T18:48:00.000Z

I created this look using just the darker colour from the Rimmel London Colour Rush Duo Eyeshadow below '514 Metallic Pearls'. I swept it over the lid to just above the crease and then lined my bottom lashes with it. It's subtle but I really like it. A good way of doing smokey eyes for day.

Cosy New Cardi

2010-11-25T00:20:00.002Z

Cardigan Debenhams
T-Shirt, Jeggings and Boots Dorothy Perkins
Socks Next
Necklace Random Shop in Norwich

Loving my new blanket wrap style cardigan from Debenhams. It's so cosy! I wore it in the outfit above for a trip to the local shops on Saturday and then again today for college when I belted it around the waist for extra snugness.

Back to Nature

2010-11-21T21:43:00.004Z

The fake nails have now been removed. So traumatic! Soaking them in nail varnish as directed did absolutely nothing! I ended up pulling them off which has done my natural nails absolutely no good at all. They are such a sorry state right now I am not even going to post a picture.
VERDICT: It was lovely to have long strong nails for a while but ultimately it wasn't worth it. I shall have to just work with what god gave me, 'now where's that strengthening base coat?'

Leopard Print Nails

2010-11-21T13:02:00.000Z

Sunday, and the nails are still on seven days later. They are coming off tonight though. On Friday I painted them in this leopard print style following the excellent video tutorial by Gem Fatale. See it here. This is so easy to do, mine came out looking pretty good for the first try if I do say so myself.

Nails Update

2010-11-20T17:10:00.001Z

Wednesday night and all the nails were still on however the 'no chip tips guaranteed' promise on the box did not deliver. Nothing major but I did find myslf having to touch up a couple of the tips with white nail polish. Somewhat bored of touching them up and of the natural look I pianted them all with Nails Inc. deep red colour 'victoria'. I love this shade but it does take three or four thick coats to achieve. One of the nails fell off on Friday but luckily I had been carrying the glue around in my bag all week so this was easily fixed. All the rest are staying well put. Slightly concerned about how I am going to get them off.

A Little Essex Style Fakery

2010-11-15T22:42:00.006Z

In homage to my home county I decided to enhance myself a little. The hair is still real, as are the eyelashes and the boobs. The nails though are fake.

Last time I wore fake nails I was 16. I am pleased to find that they have greatly improved since then. For one thing I've had them on a whole day and night and they haven't fallen off yet. We'll see if they last the full seven days. Secondly the shorter lengths that are available now are so much more practical. I can type, and do buttons! Getting the memory card out of my camera however, that was an issue.

Max C London Bird Print A-Line Dress

2010-10-27T22:49:00.001+01:00

Wore the Max C dress that I won in the giveaway over at Sadie's Wardrobe to college today.

Admittedly it would look better without the long sleeve top underneath but it is so cold in that old building that I was actually bundled up like the picture below for most of the day. In need of a cute cardigan like the one Sophie Ellis-Bextor paired it with.

Scarf Market Stall
Top New Look
Jacket Charity Shop
Dress Max C
Tights New Look
Boots Jane Shilton

I love the print of this dress and the style. The shape is flattering and the strap detail is a really interesting touch. A couple of words of warning though. The sizes run big. I asked for a 12 after matching up my measurements with the size guide but I could have easily got into a 10. The 12 is too big around the bust and waist so I'm going to have to attempt to take it in if I ever get the time. It's fine with a top underneath but come summer I'll be flashing everyone my bra. I'd advise people to pick their normal high street size. Secondly the material sticks to and rides up tights. I spent all day pulling it down wishing I'd gone back for my slip this morning.

Sorry for the less than stellar photography. I really need to scout out my new location for a good place to take pictures.

The other half of my prize, the Spotted Chiffon Blouse, coming soon.

Work Load

2010-10-24T20:25:00.001+01:00

I know I've not delivered on my promise of photos of my Max C winnings. I just want to show you what blogging is contending with at the moment.

That is TWO WEEKS work. I'm sure I produced less paper than that in a year of university. To add to the moan fest it's not easy work either. Progress test on Friday felt like a bit of a disaster, will find out to tomorrow.

Anyway the new and improved plan is to try and wear my new clothes to college this week and get photos of them then. Expect super layering though. Our old building is really cold!

I Won Something!

2010-10-21T18:32:00.000+01:00

I won the Max C giveaway over at Sadie's Wardrobe! My package was waiting for me when I arrived home from college this evening and all thoughts of my test tomorrow went completely out of the window as I admired that rare thing, free clothes! Can't wait to show you guys but tests must take priority. My intention is to photograph my winnings at the weekend.
Till then x

Grey Smoky Eyes Pt. One

2010-10-17T21:16:00.000+01:00

Been experimenting with grey smoky eyes since my post on smoky eyes featured in Company magazine. This was my first attempt. I used two different greys, had them so long I doubt the colours are even still produced so I won't bother with the product details. I liked it but it wasn't the one colour smoky effect that I was going for as seen in the magazine. Further attempts to come.

2010-10-13T21:24:00.003+01:00

Major lack of posts, I know! Here's why; only just got the internet connected where I'm staying, and then the wireless on my computer decided to break meaning the only way I can access the internet is pearched in the hallway with the computer directly attached to the router, oh and the phone is now buzzing really badly despite me using a splitter on the line; I have a horrendous amount of work to do for the professional qualification I'm doing for my new job, and if I fail I get sacked; I've bought nothing recently except boring office wear. Honestly have no idea when or if normal posting will return.

Crazy Times

2010-10-01T15:32:00.000+01:00

Okay, so remember last month when I lost my shiny new graduate job before it even started. I just got another one and it starts on Monday! I have so much to do! Sadly what this means for you is that blogging and sewing etc are once again on the back burner. I feel like I haven't made anything for ages and I'm seriously missing creating things. I'm planning to pick a couple of simple projects to take with me to get started on once I settle into the routine of my new job.

McCall's 5647 © 1991

2010-09-30T10:52:00.000+01:00

Dropped the song titles as post titles idea already. It's just not always appropriate.

The charity shop where I previously found some vintage sewing patterns (see the post here) had another basket load in. They were just 50p each. I bought six! Which was pretty much every one that was in my size, I'm still not confident/bothered enough to do grading.

With these and grandma's stash to go through it is taking me quite a while to date the patterns and check that all the pieces are present and correct so I'll most likely be posting them one at a time.

This one was easy to date, The copyright date was on the envelope! I love the big swing coat, which was mainly what I bought it for but I also like the simple skirt and trousers. The top looks cute in the drawing with the skirt but looking at the pattern pieces I think it would actually be really large and shapeless so I'll probably give that one a miss.

Female of the Species

2010-09-24T23:41:00.000+01:00

Post title is a song by Space. I had this idea of just putting media player on random and using the title or some lyrics from the first song that comes up as my post title. Let me know if you prefer the more traditional post titles.

Purple tights and blue shoes, yay or nay?

I talk to God as much as I talk to Satan cause I want to hear both sides

2010-09-19T23:43:00.002+01:00

Yes I have become one of those bloggers who uses song lyrics as post titles. 'Another Charity Shop Find' or 'Beige Jacket' just started to seem too boring. The song is by Biffy Clyro. I have been listening to them so much recently though god knows why the lead singer decided to do this to himself.

Anyway, my latest charity shop find is this beige jacket. It set me back £4.95 from the Sue Ryder charity shop. It's originally Per Una. Similar unlined jackets to this retail at around £45!

Jacket, Cardigan and Dress all various charity shops
Socks Next
Boots Dorothy Perkins
Necklaces Gun and Rocking horse charms from esty and strung on random chains

I chose this picture because I'm continually pushing my hair back off my face. It's nice to catch the action.

Summer seems to have officially passed around here but at least I was able to break out these new boots and try out the boots and socks look. I'm wearing nude coloured tights too. I got the boots on sale recently in Dorothy Perkins. I was surprised to find them on sale as minus a bit of shearling they are very this season, not that I'm complaining.

Blue Smoky Eyes

2010-09-12T18:33:00.001+01:00

According to Company magazines September issue, 'this season the smoky eye has gone soft. "It's lineless, shadowy, beautifully blown-out and blended."' 'Any colour works, though - the catwalk featured soft blacks, smudy mauves and lots and lots of grey.'

I'll try the grey smoky eye out another time. Yesterday I wore a navy dress so I thought I would give a blue smoky eye a try. I think I need to be braver about taking the colour above the crease. What do you think?

Crop Top

2010-09-08T14:23:00.000+01:00

I sewed this top in a rush the day before I went on holiday as I decided that I wanted a crop top. It ended up shorter than I planned so I only feel comfortable wearing it with high waisted stuff, otherwise there is just way too much flesh on show. That and our cheap flights and 15kg baggage allowance meant that in the end I didn't actually pack it, favouring shorts and strapless tops as my casual outfits. Not only was I short on time but I was also short on material so this top actually has seams down the front and back as well as at the sides. If anyone notices I'll pretend it's a deliberate design feature. I used my self made pattern, also seen here and here, but made is shorter (obviously) and reduced the width of the pattern.

Top Made by Me
Skirt Warehouse, I need more clothes with pockets. These are so useful.
Bracelets a bazaar in Kazakhstan
Ring reproduction vintage ring from Fidra
Watch DKNY, 21st birthday present
Shoes Carvela via House of Fraser, I got these on sale and they are my new favourite shoes. They were the only pair of heels that I took on holiday. They go wth everything.

This last picture should really be an outtake, it looks like I'm just wandering off smiling insanely at the sky, but I like it. Also, I notice that I hardly look tanned from my week in the sun. I can assure you that I am tanned. I would show you my tan lines but it would get kind of indecent.

OMG! A New Post?

2010-09-04T18:36:00.001+01:00

I'm back! Sorry again for the lack of content over the past couple of weeks, as I explained I went on holiday then I was stewarding at Reading Festival. Then I got sick and all down about the prospect of applying for graduate jobs again. Anyway I'm hoping to get back into some kind of routine with the blog so lets get started.

I bought these shoes back in July from the Break Charity shop but only just got round to posting them. You know how it is, for one thing I never seemed to have decently polished toe nails when I thought of photographing them. On that note I'm not sure that green, ever, is a good toe nail colour. I'm thinking mine have ended up look slightly fungal, but at least I match my wallpaper. These shoes are really not my usual style, I tend to prefer more substantial styles, but they seemed such a bargain at £5 I figured I could make them work. It's also nice to have a few more lower heels in my wardrobe. They are originally Dorothy Perkins and are clearly a sale purchase that was never worn. The hint was the sale sticker left on one of the inner soles.

2010-08-24T13:35:00.000+01:00

Hi Guys
I just want to say hi to my new followers, hi! I have 50 now, unbelievable! I'm so glad that you guys like my writing, style, jewellery, sewing, whatever it was that brought you here. I also want to apologise for going AWOL for the last week. I've been on holiday in Ibiza, no, not hard core clubbing, my friends and I visited churches and enjoyed family entertainment shows in a nearby hotel instead. We are just beyond cool! I'm also off to work for Oxfam at Reading festival tomorrow and I'm not organised enough to schedule posts so there will be nothing from me for a while longer. I also have bad news. That job I was so excited to be starting, the new area I was moving to. It's not happening. Just a month before I was due to start my graduate job the government announced it was abolishing the body I was going to be working for. My first class degree is starting to feel a lot less valuable than it used to. On the plus side I will now have a load of free time to work through my sewing stash in between job applications. Right now, got to go I have to unpack, pack again and write a sarcastic letter to a government minister.
x

Kazakh Dress

2010-08-11T12:47:00.000+01:00

Finally finished the sewing project that I mentioned back here over two weeks ago! Isn't it annoying how life just gets in the way some times? My grand plans for spending my summer doing nothing but sewing, socialising and sunbathing scuppered by mudane things like finding a flat, rain and insuring my car. I was kinda afraid to use this fabric that I bought when I was in kazakhstan. What if I ruined it? It was irreplaceable. After it had been sitting in my stash for nearly a year I decided that it was finally time to bite the bullet. I settled on making a shift dress to start with, one, because I have used this pattern several times before, see here and here, and two, because I thought such a bold print needed to be balanced by a simple dress.

* I totally loath those kinks that I get in the back of my hair, even my straighteners rarely deal with them. Luckily I don't see the back of my head too often*

The pattern is Burda Young 8123. The construction went well, the best with this pattern so far, although I still have trouble with the facings (I think they are a bit too big), finishing the shoulders and the fitting at the back. It fits fine across the front but pulls at the back although not as badly as it looks in the photo. It is certainly wearable. Obviously my pattern matching is nothing to write home about as you can see from the side seams and the zipper but I did make the effort to make sure that the print was at least level across all the pieces which was a new thing for me.

Yet More Fabric For My Stash

2010-08-09T09:33:00.000+01:00

A couple more fabrics that I've picked up in charity shops. The navy fabric is a double duvet cover that I bought for £2.50 I'm planning on making yet another simple shift dress but with added details such as a peter pan collar and a strip of lace down the front.

This red fabric was £5 for a couple of meters which is more than I would usually spend but I loved the sea gull print. With this I'm planning to make an open back dress in the style of Vivat Veritas.

Charity Shop Jewellery

2010-08-07T10:10:00.000+01:00

Pearl Necklace £1.50, It's pretty short so I plan on using the beads to make a longer necklace.
Green Glass Pendant on Triple Chain £2.00
Cross Pendant on Chain £2.00
Triple Bar Pendant with Chain £1.00
Both Gold Necklaces £2.00 each

I'm supposed to be expanding my collection of rings and bracelets but I just can't resist a secondhand necklace.

Please excuse my attempt at being artistic with my photography.

Grandma's Stash

2010-08-04T10:24:00.000+01:00

During my search to find somewhere to live in September (which I did by the way, but found out what little my money would get me in an area within commuter distance of London) I stayed over night at my Grandma's House. I just happened to mention that I had made my pajamas and Grandma replies 'Oh, I didn't know you liked sewing. Come with me'. So out we go to her conservatory where she opens a cupboard and shows me a shelf full of vintage knitting and sewing patterns.

They are going to take some sorting out!

Quote of the Day

2010-08-04T09:36:00.001+01:00

"Nobody will ever win the battle of the sexes. There's too much fraternising with the enemy."
Henry Kissinger

Green Tea

2010-08-02T11:14:00.000+01:00

Another gift for a friends birthday.

Vintage Chain, Tea Cup Charm from crotchetynoodnick on Etsy, Green Bead from The Bead Shop.

Quote of the Day

2010-08-01T13:19:00.000+01:00

"I generally avoid temptation unless I can't resist it."
Mae West

Quote of the Day

2010-07-31T07:15:00.001+01:00

"Anything too stupid to be said is sung."
Voltaire
(or written in poetry)

2010-07-29T11:04:00.004+01:00

Hi everyone. I'm sorry for the lack of posts with any value and I regret to inform you that this lack with carry on for the next few days. I'm currently trying to find a place to live in the area that I will be moving to in September to start my new job, which is, on balance, kind of more important than blogging. x

Quote of the Day

2010-07-27T14:47:00.001+01:00

"In all large corporations, there is a pervasive fear that someone, somewhere is having fun with a computer on company time. Networks help alleviate that fear."
John C. Dvorak

More Inspiration

2010-07-26T12:49:00.005+01:00

I do have another sewing project to show you soon, promise. I finally worked up the nerve to cut into one of the fabrics that I bought in Kazakhstan, but since I decided to make the most of my summer I have been spending too much time out with my friends rather than sitting alone with my sewing machine, lol!

Can you guess what it might become?

In the mean time here's some more pics from my inspiration folder.

Image from ASOS.com

Cute shift dress with pleats around the hem. Thinking that in the right colour this could be a good dress for the office.

Image from ASOS.com

Been dying to make a cap sleeved, full skirted dress in navy polka dots for ages. The bow makes it even cuter.

Image from ASOS.com

Jersey dress with stretch mesh wrapped around. A refashion project for a pair of old black tights?

Image of Karla Spectic A/W10 collection via Vivta Veritas

Loving cut out details at the moment. Plus I love anything with a tight bodice and full skirt. The shape suits me.

Image from Vivta Veritas

I intend to sew up a version of this cut out back dress from Vivta Veritas which I have seen many versions of on Burdastyle. Just a question of getting round to it. I foresee a lot of material coming with me when I move.

Demin Skirt

2010-07-25T09:50:00.000+01:00

Shirt Arthritis Research Charity Shop, originally Next
Skirt Warehouse
Shoes New Look
Bag So old I can't remember
Silver Necklace Gift

When I bought this shirt in my charity shopping spree I said that I wanted to make a high wasited demin skirt or pair of shorts to wear with it. Well I still hadn't got round to that so when I saw this skirt on sale in Warehouse I had to have it. At under £15 I probably couldn't have bought all the fabric and notions I would have needed to make anything anyway. I finally have an outfit, yay!

Blue Shoes

2010-07-21T12:31:00.002+01:00

My latest obsession is shoes, incase you hadn't noticed. It's a rather more expensive obsessionthan my last one with tights and socks. To keep costs down I've been doing my best to see what I can find in charity shops.

T-Shirt Dorothy Perkins
Jeans very old Dorothy Perkins
Shoes Sue Ryder Charity Shop

I bought these blue shoes, originally New Look, for £3 from Sue Ryder then when I got them home realised that they didn't match anything in my wardrobe. Then the other day I decided to use them to add a pop of colour to a grey tee and jeans.

Ring Dorothy Perkins
Angel Wing Necklace Made by Me, Charm from Cards & Craft UK
Religious Charm I don't remember getting this but my mother says that I took a fancy to it in a shop in Ely when I was younger.

I bought this chunky ring in the sale from Dorothy Perkins (seem to be shopping there a lot recently since I feel that the quality of some other high street shops in the UK has declined) for £2. It is meant to be the start of me wearing more jewellery other than necklaces.

New Shorts

2010-07-19T12:55:00.001+01:00

Picked up these shorts at the Sue Ryder charity shop for just £1. They are originally M&S.

I'm wearing them rolled up in both these photos, might iron the turn ups in as currently they are held up by a number of safety pins, and I think they are much more flattering rolled up. Unrolled they come to about 3" above my knee.

I don't often wear them with a top tucked in like the first photo. Though I love the high waist, the fabric is quite see through and anything other than a nude colour top shows through. So I just pull the top over them like in this photo. Love how I am doing almost exactly the same pose here.

PJs Take Two

2010-07-17T12:12:00.000+01:00

After using Burdastyle's free Pete t-shirt pattern in the smallest size for my last attempt at making pajamas I went to the opposite extreme for my second attempt, cutting the largest size. It turned out more of a night dress than a pajama top but I'm still pleased with it. Managed to get the pattern to print out with the test box more or less the right size and had no problems with the sleeves this time. The print is the right way round too! I also added a large pocket to the front (can't really be seen in the photo) for carrying around stuff like my glasses.

I had some fabric left over so I decided to make a matching little drawstring bag to carry my PJ set around in. It comes in very useful for sleepovers and travelling.

I Love Tights But We Don't Get On.

2010-07-15T17:57:00.001+01:00

I ripped my bow tights taking them off after the first time I wore them, back in high school there was an awful incident involving a thin pair of tights and a coat which had velcro, and now this! I bought these tights a couple of weeks ago from New Look.

Image from New Look

I was trying them on for the first time and a massive hole appears in the ankle and ladders up the leg. I hadn't even got them on properly! I've convinced myself there must have been a fault with them as I didn't feel them catch or anything but there's no way I could prove it. Part of me wonders whether it is worth spending more on tights as they might be better quality, I haven't damaged my Henry Holland tights yet, but it will be all the more upsetting if I ladder an expensive pair of tights. Sheer tights can be so pretty but I think for economys sake I should stick to my trusty 60 deniers.

Featured

2010-07-14T11:35:00.001+01:00

Image is a screen shot of the Cut Out + Keep home page

Stop it now or I'm going to get a big head! Another of my projects has been chosen as the featured project on cut out + keep. Seriously though, I am so pleased. My creations wouldn't get recognised like this if people didn't like them and comment on them.

As one user pointed out monoxious.com have also posted a very similar tutorial. I'd already made my piece before I saw their tutorial via OutsaPop and commented that they had beaten me to it with their tutorial. In the end I decided to go ahead and post my tutorial anyway as not everyone might have seen the other one, and obviously they hadn't given this projects' popularity on cut out + keep. So I hope that clears that up. Please check out the monoxious tutorial too. Theirs has pictures.

DIY Body Armour

2010-07-09T11:32:00.002+01:00

No I did not spend a very large amount of money, I made it, and yes it is ~~a total rip off~~ inspired by this piece from Armour and at $275 compared to the £5 this cost me in materials who can blame me? The original uses heavier chains which means that it sits better as the smaller chains do not pull the neck piece off to the side but I can live with that.

The back is kinda boring but there are no pictures of the back of the original so I figure it's the same. I conculed that a load of chains down the back would inhibit arm movement and interfere with taking it on and off.

I'm loving this little DIY of mine. It's actually way more wearable than I thought I would be. I wore it out for drinks and dancing with my friends and it didn't slip about and annoy me like I thought it might. I just had to remember to wear my bag on a different arm. My little country hometown remained as fashion ignorant as ever and no one even gave it a second look which was kinda disappointing but if your the kind of person that doesn't like to stand out too much then that's proof that you could still wear this.

Now this isn't really a tutorial because I didn't take any pictures of the process. I got too wrapped up in making it and a lot of making it required the use of two hands, but if you understand the very basics of jewellery making then it is easy to do. In fact even if you don't understand the basics you can do it. All you need to know how to do is how to join two elements of the piece together using jump rings. Which is very simple, check out this and/or this to help you out.

Okay then, you'll need.

1 meter of large chain
1 to 2 meters of smaller chain depending on how long/how many small chain links you want. I used just over 1 meter.
one large clasp
a lot of jump rings
chain/wire cutters. If you don't have special jewellery ones you may be able to find some around the house in mum/dads/yours/your other halfs tool box.

Take the large chain and drape it around you neck to determine what length you want it. Cut to length.
Attach the clasp to one end of the neck chain using a jump ring.
Drape the remainder of the large chain around your arm and shoulder. Determine length and cut.
Attach ends of the arm chain together using a jump ring.
For the next steps a dress form or a volunteer would come in very useful but you could keep taking it on and off yourself.
Decide how far apart you want your arm chain from your neck chain at the top of your shuoulder. Cut a piece of small chain to length and attach it to the neck and arm chains using jump rings.
Next determine the length and drape that you want for the bottom chain at the front of your jewellery. Cut small chain to size and attach with jump rings.
Now work your way back up the front of the body from the bottom small chain to the shoulder. Space your small chains evenly (or not if you want) I attached one on every other link of the large chains. Make sure that as you attach them the large chains haven't twisted and that you are always attaching the small chains on the same sides of the large chains.
I also added a few lengths of small chain down the back to stop the arm chain sliding off. This is was very trial and error just keep trying it on and moving about until you get it right.
Wear with pride. To get it on you put your arm through the arm chain and pull up to your shoulder then do up the neck chain.

I hope that was clear. Sorry for so many words and no pictures. Any qustions please ask.

Inspiration

2010-07-07T14:56:00.001+01:00

Okay hands up I have nothing to post so I thought I would share a couple of the inspiration pictures I've been collecting.

Image from ASOS.com
I'm not a fan of harem style trousers but I do like these floral ones from ASOS. I'm hoping to alter the trouser pattern from my PJs to create something similar to these.

Image from Armor
I already have a post coming up showing a piece of body armour style jewellery I've made that was inspired by this brand but I'm also hoping to make something similar to this necklace only with rather shorter chains.

Image from ASOS.com

More inspiration from ASOS undoubtedly inspired in turn by those Burberry skirts. For someone who's something of a pear shape I think trying out these twists on my top half would be a better idea than wacking them round my hips.

Necklaces for Other People

2010-07-05T12:28:00.000+01:00

Some more necklaces that I have made as birthday gifts. Sorry I couldn't get any photos of them on but I totally forgot to take any pictures after I made them. Had to steal them back for a moment after they'd been unwrapped to take these snaps.

Old Shirt

2010-07-03T11:37:00.001+01:00

My step dad was getting rid of this old shirt, and I mean it is old! It's completely thread bare around the collar and cuffs. I haven't decided what to do with it yet. Refashion it or wear it as is? Rock the double demin look as below? (it's not actually demin, but it looks it) Perhaps I'll do both. Wear it as a shirt until the demin shirt goes back out of fashion and then change it into something else.

How Exciting

2010-06-30T22:49:00.003+01:00

I just noticed that my lacy shoulders top is featured on the front page of BurdaStyle.
Thank You!

ASOS Randal Buckle Wedges

2010-06-30T18:54:00.000+01:00

I first saw these shoes here on iheartvintagex and I didn't like them. I've never been a major fan of wedges but I kept looking at them online and they grew on me. After they came back into stock I convinced myself that really they would be very practical and I had to have them. I'm so glad I did because now I love them.

T-Shirt New Look or Dorothy Perkins (I can't remember which black t-shirt I was wearing)
Dress Topshop (known to my friends as the 'wonky boob dress' because of the way the gathering runs in different directions on the bust)
Bracelet One of my DIY ankle chains (love how many ways I can wear these)
Shoes ASOS (you can get them here. They also have them in demin and taupe. The grey is sold out again)
Hair Very much au naturale

Charity Shopping

2010-06-28T11:42:00.001+01:00

I actually bought this lot ages ago but I've only just got round to posting it, you know how it is.

I now own three leather jackets but this is the only one that is really leather. I couldn't believe my luck when I felt the soft leather in among the linen jackets and anoraks. Then I looked at the price, £6.50!?! It couldn't be real leather, could it? I searched for a label and yes it was! It looked small but I tried it on and it fitted just prefectly. Not getting much wear out of it at the moment as England has finally decided to give us some proper summer weather but certainly one of my better finds.

The skirt I'm wearing in the first picture (and on the pictures of my lacy shoulders top) is another charity shop purchase. When I bought it it had these massive buttons on the front, as seen above, which just looked odd so I whipped them straight off and they went into one of my many sewing boxes for possible use in some future project. Originally River island, £3.95.

This sheer blouse is Jasper Conran. It's not my usual style but makes a good summer cover up. £4.25.

And finally a couple of pieces of jewellery, pendant and earrings both £1.25 each.

Lacy Shoulders

2010-06-26T10:38:00.005+01:00

This top was inspired by an Ella Moss tee I saw here on late afternoon. I really loved the look of the lace over the shoulders. Mine is no where near as lovely as the original but I had a good go and I've already worn it more than once.

T-Shirt Made by Me
Skirt Norfolk Hospice Charity Shop
Ruffled Socks ASOS
Shoes Dorothy Perkins
Hairband New Look?

This last picture came out dark but I took it just to show the full length of the top.

It was pretty simple to make. I used the same t-shirt pattern that I made and used here, sewed it all up in a black cotton jersey then added strips of lace over the shoulders and cut away the fabric from underneath. The lace comes from the sleeve of the lace shirt I bought from a charity shop back here.

p.s. posts to come on the grey skirt I'm wearing in the top pictures, it's a charity shop find, and those shoes in the last picture

Quote of the Day

2010-06-24T09:44:00.001+01:00

"Democracy is the recurrent suspicion that more than half of the people are right more than half the time."
E. B. White, New Yorker, July 3, 1944
US author & humorist (1899 - 1985)

Smile!

2010-06-23T09:40:00.001+01:00

This is another necklace made as a birthday gift for a friend. This friend loves taking pictures, hence the camera charm. She has an informal role as the photographer at all of our parties and nights out. Plus her Canon camera is so much better than anything else owned by our group. I made it so that the charm can be removed from the beaded chain and hung on a different one to suit a mood or outfit.

I hope none of my friends mind me posing in their presents before I give them to them.

Charity Shopping

2010-06-21T11:27:00.001+01:00

Bought this dress for £4 around a week ago as well as a pair of blue shoes that I have yet to document.

Dress Sue Ryder Charity Shop
Shoes Belle & Mimi via Dorothy Perkins
Bag Fiorelli via Debenhams

It's actually four sizes too big for me but I fell in love with the print ages ago when I saw in store; it's from New Look originally. Even though it's too big I think it works with the waist tie, just looks like it's meant to be a loose fit. Am I right or completely deluded?

2010-06-20T15:57:00.000+01:00

I'm no graphic designer but I decided to get rid of my borrowed background and comments button and have a go at designing my own header and button (with a little help from Corel Paint Shop Pro Photo's picture tube). What do you think? Is it more personal or should I leave it to the experts?

Ankle Chains

2010-06-19T10:18:00.000+01:00

I was inspired by Maegan of Love Maegan who instead of splashing out on shoes with chains simply wrapped some old chunky necklaces around her ankles and transformed an existing pair of shoes (see her posts here and here). I didn't happen to have any chunky necklaces lying around but a quick click on the bead shop (totally my go to place for all jewellery making supplies) and I had, thick chain, jumps rings, and clasps. All the stuff I needed to make my own ankle chains.

I made two that wrap around my ankle twice and two that wrap around once, in both gold and gun metal.

I can wear them alone.

Or mixed together.

PJs

2010-06-16T10:06:00.000+01:00

All my pajamas are falling apart and I haven't had a matching pair for several years. So I decided to kill two or rather three birds with one stone; Make myself a matching pair of pajamas, make my first pair of trousers and make my first item with sleeves.

For the top I used burdastyle's free Pete t-shirt pattern. I cut the smallest size which turned out a bit too tight for nightware but I have hopefully got enough fabric left to make it in a larger size. The sleeves were easier than expected although something went a bit wrong under the arms. My side seams and sleeve seams do not agree. I wonder if this has something to do with the fact that my printer always prints burdastyle patterns half a cm out. The test box is 9.5cm rather than 10cm. I also had to widen the neckline so that I could fold the edge over rather than apply a ribbed fabric as the pattern suggests. The fabric is a printed cotton jersey. The print is a repeat of two sheep with some lambs. Very appropriate for nightwear. I made a mistake on the sleeves though. My sheep are upside down! They were the last pattern piece I cut and I had stopped thinking.

I'm really happy with the trousers. For a pattern I used an old pair of pajama bottoms which had gone into holes all around the waistband. The waistband of the pair I made is elasticated with a small blue bow sewn to the front to look pretty and remind me which is the front.

I couldn't resist taking some really cheesy themed photos of these creations with the help of Humphrey.

n.b. This is not what I actually look like when I go to bed. I do not live in a movie world where my hair and makeup is always magically done when I go to bed and get up in the morning.

Winging My Way to You

2010-06-14T12:38:00.000+01:00

I made this necklace as a gift for a friends birthday. Sadly it was late getting to her as the extension chain I needed to finish it was out of stock. Mind you she was lucky to get it at all as I liked it so much I nearly kept if for myself.

To Dye or Not To Dye; That is the Question

2010-06-10T10:00:00.000+01:00

OR My Hair Over The Years in Pictures

How it started.

Before the first dye.

At 16 high school ended and I dyed my naturally light golden brown/dark blonde hair a shade of light blonde. Clairol nice 'n easy no. 102 natural light ash blonde to be exact.

Leaving sixth form behind I felt like a change, plus the blonde was savaging my hair, and at 18 I dyed my hair brown. It went an odd green shade (no pictures of that) so I had to dye it a red toned brown to sort it out.

Later in the year I went black

and then dark brown.

In fact going through my pictures I went through A LOT of different browns or it might just be that the colour faded quickly. Which it did.

I last dyed my hair some time in 2007 age 20. The dark brown quickly faded to a light brown and grew out without anyone really noticing, see following host of facebook profile pictures.

A summer spent in Kazakhstan in 2009 and my natural highlights returned leaving me with a natural colour that I like a lot.

I think it suits my skin tone well. Yet I find my self itching for the bottle again. I just want to be a little blonder. It really depends on the light as to whether my hair looks blonde or brown. I want there to be no doubt. I've considered highlights but I can't justify the expense of getting them done and my roots retouched at a salon and I already have a lot of natural high lights so I'm leaning towards an all over colour. Not as blonde as 16 year old me. Perhaps a medium blonde? What do you guys think?

Draped Top

2010-06-09T11:28:00.001+01:00

After some slightly disappointing recent sewing attempts I decided to do something quick, easy and satisfying. I went back to my favourite fabric type, cotton jersey, and knocked out this draped top. The pattern is based on the same top as my Reasonably Happy Mistake Top except instead of curving the hem I cut it straight across (theres a picture of my home made pattern at the end of this post. I think it would be easy to recreate). I wanted it to have a slightly urban distressed look so I turned the edges of the neck and arm holes once to the right side of the fabric and then sewed them down with a zig zag stitch so that they are exposed. I was going to add a pocket to the front but I was worried about the ruining the drape. I'm very pleased with it expect for the neckline which came out a slightly odd shape with that flat bit at the bottom. I've put a note on my pattern to alter it if I make it again.

Top Made by Me
Jeans River Island
Boots Jane Shilton

p.s. Isn't that necklace cool? It's an image of a black stags head attached to a gold chain. I got it from a shop in Norwich.

Quote of the Day

2010-06-08T22:50:00.000+01:00

"The Internet is like alcohol in some sense. It accentuates what you would do anyway. If you want to be a loner, you can be more alone. If you want to connect, it makes it easier to connect."
Esther Dyson

Ebay Shoes

2010-06-07T10:24:00.001+01:00

My shoe craze continues with this pair bought on ebay for £5 including postage. They are a little too small but as they are leather I have convinced myself that if I keep wearing them around the house I will eventually break them in, or alternatively they might end up in a charity shop within the next two years.

Pleated Skirt Refashion

2010-06-05T11:27:00.002+01:00

I bought this skirt ages ago in a charity shopping spree intending to refashion it as part of my wardrobe refashion pledge. That didn't happen but I have finally got around to it.

Here's a reminder of the original skirt.

Shirt Marks & Spencers
Skirt Refashioned by Me

I cut it off above the knee and rehemmed it. Not as easy as usual given the pleats. Hemming and ironing pleats, not a great deal of fun, but it turned out better than expected.

T-Shirt Dorothy Perkins
Skirt Refashioned by Me
Shoes New Look
Necklace Can't remember

Above are a couple of ways I might wear it. A work wear inspired look and a bright and colourful one. The one thing I definiately don't want to do is go teaming it with a t-shirt and trainers. Not unless I want to look like my old gym teacher who lived in her netball skirts. What do you think? Does it work or do I look like I've come straight from a P.E. lesson?

How Cool is This?

2010-06-02T12:47:00.000+01:00

I have literally a drawer full of unused toiletries at home and theres no way I'm packing them all up and taking them with me when I move so I've decided to actually start using them. My body is getting a right treat. Leave in conditioner after every hair wash, moisturising after every bath. The above was produced by an unbranned bath bomb I got one christmas. Only half of it had dissolved at this point. When it had finished my bath water was bright barbie pink and when I got back out of the bath I was thankful that my skin wasn't. A little bit of juvenile fun.

A Nice Cup of Tea

2010-05-31T12:47:00.000+01:00

I've been stocking up on jewellery making supplies again. This time my purchases included these cute little teacup and saucer charms from Crotchety Noodnick on esty. I have some designs in the pipeline for them but at the moment I like to wear one on a separate chian along with my teapot.

Jeans Jeans

2010-05-28T11:20:00.000+01:00

Jacket Charity Shop
Vest Gap
Jeans Oasis, rehemmed by Me
Shoes New Look
Necklace Angel wing charm from Cards & Craft UK, old silver chain.

A simple refashion. I bought these high waisted jeans from Oasis a couple of years ago but after a few washes they had shurnk so much that I could only wear them with flats. Luckily they had a large hem allowance so I have took them down around one inch so that I can wear them with low heels. You can see the line from where the previous hem line was but I kind of like it.

Brown Brogues Baby

2010-05-26T10:08:00.001+01:00

I love brogue style shoes. I already have a pair of flats and a pair of heels in black but have been on the hunt for some more colours for a while now. So just imagine my delight when I found this unworn Clarks pair hiding at the bottom of the shoe rack partially covered by long old dresses in the British Heart Foundation charity shop for £5.99 in my size.♥

Henry Holland for Pretty Polly Tights

2010-05-24T10:35:00.001+01:00

Jacket Donated by my Mother
Dress Warehouse
Tights Henry Holland for Pretty Polly via ASOS
Shoes New Look
Necklace Vintage locket from my Nan

As always I was seriously behind everyone else on this trend but I don't care. I LOVE these tights. I wore the above outfit on a night out for a friends birthday. Sadly their awesomeness was totally wasted on the locals. I also tried to wear this outfit to the London Science Museum for my birthday day out but my mother said it was inappropriate. She was probably right, there were a lot of young families there.

2010-05-21T12:04:00.001+01:00

I think we will put this one down to experience. My first attempt at sewing from one of my vintage patterns, Simplicity 6392 that I posted about here. The only changes I made to the pattern were to shorten the skirt and remove the strap across the back. The construction went quite well except that despite using all the same seam allowances the skirt did not fit the bodice so I had to un pick the skirt side seams and redo them but everything looks pretty neat and well made, even the pleats which were my first ever try with the technique. Problem is that is doesn't fit very well. It was always going to be quite a loose fit as it is a pull over dress, but I just don't think that the style really suits me. I like to emphasise my waist. If I weren't such a lazy and impatient sewer I would have tried to fix this problem when it first became apparent, after I had cut out the pieces and pinned them to my dress form. I would have added darts and a zipper, but I am lazy and impatient so I decided to sew the pattern as is and see what I ended up with. What I ended up with was a pretty much a dark green sack with a low back that I can't see myself wearing beyond hot summer days when I'm not planning on leaving the house. Well anyway here's a load of pictures that don't really do it's badness justice.

My cat is wondering what the hell I am doing.

I can't decide if adding a waist belt improves matters or if there is just too much fabric in the dress and/or it is too short to make it work.

Your feedback is as always very welcome.

By Popular Demand

2010-05-20T10:20:00.000+01:00

(okay two comments)

A picture of the tiny charm necklace from Wednesdays post being worn.

Tiny Charm - A Jewellery Post

2010-05-19T12:12:00.000+01:00

I originally paired these beads with the floral locket from this post but it wasn't right so I decided to use them alone with a thin gold chain I already had. It looks cute with my work blouses.

Bloglovin'

2010-05-18T17:01:00.002+01:00

If it's your thing you can now follow my blog with bloglovin just click the link or the widget down in my sidebar.

New Shoes

2010-05-17T16:43:00.002+01:00

I went on something of a shoe buying spree with my birthday money.

Black gladiator sandals with a low wedge from Office. Please ignore my weird long toes.

Belle & Mimi taupe wooden heel sandals via Dorothy Perkins. These shoes turned out to be a perfect match for a handbag I got in the January sales which was an added bonus.

Light grey t-bar court shoes from Next. Worn here. For some reason these are available in every colour expect the grey on the website.
I am slightly hating Office now as what I really really wanted was a pair of grey brogues but I couldn't find any anywhere so I compromised with these grey courts. I just spotted these on the website. The Next ones are spectacularly comfortable though.

Black and grey high heeled brogue style shoes with hiden platform from Faith. I got them for almost half price in the sale but I can't find them on the website. Sorry guys they may all be gone now.