tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7106794267379532392024-03-13T05:35:04.549+01:00CONFESSIONS OF A FORMER SIZE 6food, fashion, travel and other little fancies ... Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.comBlogger202125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-756777836800564412014-04-13T11:53:00.001+02:002014-04-13T11:53:55.843+02:00A serious case of the blues ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nVymnpN65zI/U0lZIBIUPGI/AAAAAAAAETo/Zh8CPCEZzdY/s1600/DSCF2814.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nVymnpN65zI/U0lZIBIUPGI/AAAAAAAAETo/Zh8CPCEZzdY/s1600/DSCF2814.jpg.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Must have been this Sunday morning's rainfall, or the knowledge that tomorrow is another Mo(a)nday, but the realisation suddenly struck me that, over the last months I've slowly fallen in love with all things blue. It was never my plan or intention to do this, but somehow blue - all shades of it - has taken over my wardrobe and accessories ... and nails! I've always associated the colour with boardrooms ("bored-rooms") and hardly ever included it in my 'going out' garments ... but for some reason, I am now strangely attracted to it in all its shades and forms. Here's a little insight into all the blues I've accumulated over the last weeks ...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_BS53C2O1d4/U0lZSpcjewI/AAAAAAAAETw/E8pYQMvz3sI/s1600/DSCF2808.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_BS53C2O1d4/U0lZSpcjewI/AAAAAAAAETw/E8pYQMvz3sI/s1600/DSCF2808.jpg.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><i><a href="http://www.asos.com//Asos-Petite/Asos-Petite-Exclusive-Dress-With-Frill-Hem-And-Short-Sleeve/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3826594" target="_blank">ASOS</a> PETITE Exclusive Dress with Frill Hem and Short Sleeve</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKPpgVFSEss/U0lZt8NKLrI/AAAAAAAAET8/FM982xnFCYI/s1600/DSCF2820.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKPpgVFSEss/U0lZt8NKLrI/AAAAAAAAET8/FM982xnFCYI/s1600/DSCF2820.jpg.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><i>Swarovski ring + Gelish nail polish</i> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c2uT0f-kwNQ/U0lZuEZsB4I/AAAAAAAAEUA/BM0WSrSAhY0/s1600/DSCF2834.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c2uT0f-kwNQ/U0lZuEZsB4I/AAAAAAAAEUA/BM0WSrSAhY0/s1600/DSCF2834.jpg.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/434893/KENZO/new-era-printed-baseball-cap" target="_blank">KENZO x New Era</a> cap</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d8s3XQWItaY/U0lZtimDRMI/AAAAAAAAET4/KTrc5ubgcE0/s1600/DSCF2836.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d8s3XQWItaY/U0lZtimDRMI/AAAAAAAAET4/KTrc5ubgcE0/s1600/DSCF2836.jpg.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Even my building has blue apertures ...</i> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HQAUvmgFapA/U0lZy14O8nI/AAAAAAAAEUU/5mdLbkOrHtk/s1600/DSCF2841.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HQAUvmgFapA/U0lZy14O8nI/AAAAAAAAEUU/5mdLbkOrHtk/s1600/DSCF2841.jpg.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://www.joythestore.com/lou-camera-bag" target="_blank">Louche @ JOY </a>Cressida bag</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rztm2nZkRBs/U0lZykIWOzI/AAAAAAAAEUQ/gIiAP7lGXaU/s1600/DSCF2843.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rztm2nZkRBs/U0lZykIWOzI/AAAAAAAAEUQ/gIiAP7lGXaU/s1600/DSCF2843.jpg.jpg" height="610" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Pantone coaster and business card holder</i></td></tr>
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For more bluespiration, head over to my Pinterest board <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/formersize6/fs6-a-case-of-the-blues/" target="_blank">here</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-37910670571080265142014-04-12T11:02:00.003+02:002014-04-12T16:44:57.162+02:00First Impressions: Yves Rocher product reviewI'm not one who usually writes product reviews ... unless I'm actually so blown away by a product (or some) that I'd be raving about it/them to all and sundry. <br />
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This is one such case. Even though I had seen Yves Rocher plenty of times abroad, especially during my travels to Brussles, I will admit I had never bought anything ... or even stepped into one of the shops to be quite honest. Last year, the eco-cosmetics brand landed in Malta and I was quite jubilant about it ... but only until a few weeks ago I actually got to try some of their stuff.<br />
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Having run out of some of my go-to morning routine items, I decided to give Yves Rocher a go. Here's what I got and my first impressions after a few days of use:<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">Micellar cleansing water</span></h3>
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Having what could be termed a teenage skin despite my mid-30s, I prefer water-based cleansers and this one just fit the bill. With its mix of tea extracts (green, white and Madagascar!) this is proving to be quite a treat for my skin! I love how fresh it feels and the cotton disk shows me just exactly how much gunk it can take off from my day-long make-up<br />
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<h3>
<span style="color: #990000;">Sebo Specific Zero Default</span></h3>
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I actually bought this as a night cream to fight my skin imperfections while I'm asleep but back home I realised it's both a day and night cream - double win! The consistency is lush without being too rich or sticky for my oily skin. I can vouch that it does exactly what it says on the package (or website rather ...) i.e. <i>"To tighten, open pores and conceal minor imperfections [...] Your skin is smooth, flawless, your complexion is matt and beautiful."</i> Result!<br />
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<h3>
<span style="color: #990000;">Anti-age global</span></h3>
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This is a fantastic eye-cream - with its metallic nozzle which doubles up as a massager to rub in the cream, it's the perfect wake-up solution for my eyes, especially in the morning. All the sleepy puffiness is gone in seconds ... and well, the first signs of ageing should be history in a matter of days (or at least I hope so!) It can also be used at night, so another double win there!<br />
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Have you ever tried any of these products? Or any other Yves Rocher products which you recommend? Let me know in the comments section below x<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /><br />N.B. This is not a paid or sponsored post and all opinions are my own thoughts.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-32344580133277515042014-04-08T18:02:00.000+02:002014-04-08T18:02:15.496+02:00The 15 minute rainbow postRight. I have just about 15 minutes to write this post before I head off to get ready for the Patti Smith concert we're so lucky to have in Malta tonight. <br />
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Heading back home I came across a woman dressed - immaculately - from head to toe in blue. I know, that this is not necessarily the most daring of colours, but the way the shades of blue were put together, with a patterned scarf to create an accent, inspired me to write a quick post about head to toe block colour. It's more of a question / challenge to you, my dear readers: have you ever sported / would you dare sporting a head to toe solid colour? Please don't speak to me about all black / grey / blue outfits! I've had my own love affair with all over grey in autumn (read <a href="http://formersize6.blogspot.com/2013/11/ootd-grey-is-my-new-black.html" target="_blank">here</a>). I'm talking rainbow colours here: the whole ROYGBIV range! Let me know - and if you have any outfit posts of the sort, link them in the comments section below :)<br />
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Check out these pins and the rest of the board <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/formersize6/fs6-15-minute-rainbow-post/" target="_blank">here</a> for some inspiration!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-7739313209034443812014-04-05T11:37:00.001+02:002014-04-05T11:37:03.144+02:00#ootd: The Double Denim Debate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm not sure where you stand on the 'Canadian Tuxedo' issue - I personally, have a bit of a love-hate relationship with head-to-toe denim ensembles. As a child of the 80s and teen of the 90s, the whole look is a well and truly 'been there, done that' scenario for me, and as opposed to most millenials who find anything hinting at these two decades as hip, I tend to cringe a bit before I grow into loving such looks.<br />
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I won't say I have never donned a double denim look in the last couple of years ever since it has once again become a favourite get-up. But I feel I have had my hits and misses, so I'll let you in on a few tips on how to make the look work.<br />
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<ul>
<li>don't match your denims - go for a dark wash jean and a lighter wash shirt to keep the look young and fresh; </li>
<li>keep the Western influences at bay - forego any fringes, embroideries, and seamings which would make people ask you for a Line dance routine. If you have to do Western inspired, then leave that to the accessories; </li>
<li>don't just wear jeans - skirts are truly having a moment right now (much to my delight) and there are so many shapes to choose from! Try a denim shirt tucked in a full midi denim skirt for a fresh take on a classic combo; </li>
<li>smarten it up - channel the 70s for an ultimate city look with a fitted denim shirt, flared jeans, blazer in a contrasting material and why not, a fedora or floppy hat;</li>
<li>but if you have to go casual - soften the all-denim look by wearing ripped or boyfriend jeans with flats or trainers and top with an oversized cardi in the chillier days. </li>
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This morning called for such an outfit, so I reached out for my trusty Zara boyfriend jeans and denim shirt and H&M oversized coral spring coat to break the all-denim look. Ballerina pumps and a top-knot finished off the casual ensemble, perfect for a Saturday morning full of errands and a raw cocoa - goji berry - banana smoothie treat from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theGrassyHopper" target="_blank">The Grassy Hopper</a>. </div>
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For more double-denim inspiration, check out my Pinterest board here: </div>
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<a data-pin-board-width="900" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="420" data-pin-scale-width="115" href="http://www.pinterest.com/formersize6/fs6-the-double-denim-debate/">Follow Mariel Sacco's board #fs6 the double denim debate on Pinterest.</a>
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<script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-83746052874473228182014-04-04T21:12:00.000+02:002014-04-04T21:12:26.497+02:00Event post: Teodor Reljic - Two launch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UjriXTbiK38/Uz8DKtCsvJI/AAAAAAAAEQM/zInw7IpK4sQ/s1600/10174875_507381326038147_445416733_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UjriXTbiK38/Uz8DKtCsvJI/AAAAAAAAEQM/zInw7IpK4sQ/s1600/10174875_507381326038147_445416733_n.jpg" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
I have finally finished reading Teodor Reljic's debut novel, Two. Not because the narrative is boring or nowhere close to intriguing or entertaining. Far from it. Very far from it.<br />
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As I attended the book launch organised by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/merlinpublishers" target="_blank">Merlin Publishers</a> in collaboration with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CreativeIsland" target="_blank">Creative Island</a> last Friday, I made it my plan to immerse myself into this other world for three solid days maximum, making the most of the long weekend. Alas, now that I no longer have the luxury of laying in bed all day while the parents (bless them) carry out the errands and chores (I'm a grown up, independent woman of sorts now), my duties dragged me, rather unwillingly, away from Two's world.<br />
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Or should I say worlds? Without giving out any spoilers, the narrative revolves around William's reality and Vermillion's world - a world which only William, his mother and the reader seem to be privy of. William's candid thoughts are conveyed by the narrator and I loved the candour, honesty and innocence captured in this young voice. <br />
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The launch itself was captivating enough. Set in the hauntingly beautiful Cafe Wignacourt in Rabat, those attending the launch were lead towards a 'Well of Secrets' where we could listen in on others' untold truths. Then, hooded creatures, masked with what looked like bark from trees, ushered us to the 'Tree of Secrets', where again, we could spy into others' hidden tales which this time were hanging from the branches. Being given access into others' secrets meant that we had to reciprocate by writing down our own secrets and throwing them into the 'Vessels of Secrets.' (Sharing most of my life on this blog meant I found this actually rather difficult to do!) Wine and nibbles flowed with the attendees' words, floating on the fresh spring breeze. <br />
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For logistical reasons, we seem to have missed the author's speech, if there actually was one. And though until then my 'fangirl' status was still undetermined, I would have loved to have a chat with Reljic to find out more about the creative process. But I had only read one page of the book until then - Two passed Ford Madox Ford's test with flying colours in my opinion: <i>"Open the book to page 99 and read, and the quality of the whole will be revealed to you." </i><br />
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The rest of the pages, well, if I hadn't enjoyed the book or the event that launched it, I wouldn't be blogging about it, let's face it. It's up to you to get engulfed in Two now.<br />
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<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>"I need to get between the shadows like an insect or a snake. Without my parents around me I feel like a different thing, like I'm an animal, a creature. All alone, I can be whatever I want to be."</i></blockquote>
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Photos courtesy of Jacob Sammut. For more of his photography, please click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jacob-Sammut-Photography/416043845171896" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
<br />
Buy Teodor Reljic's novel Two <a href="http://www.merlinpublishers.com/selectedisbnbook_mlt.php?isbn=9789990914733" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /><br />N.B. This is not a paid or sponsored post and all opinions are my own thoughts.</span><blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i> </i></blockquote>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-3816928818807609392014-04-03T22:16:00.000+02:002014-04-03T22:16:16.183+02:00A post of PinsA quick post for this evening after I have spent most of it browsing Pinterest, creating a 'mood board' for Spring 2014. I'm feeling a lot of loose and oversized shapes, maxi and flowing midi skirts, classic pieces which never go out of style, bed-hair giving the whole ensemble that quintessential rock-chic flavour... There's something Parisian about the whole thing ... a bit 'grown-up bohemian' if you may. What's on your spring style mood board?<br />
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<a data-pin-board-width="950" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="950" data-pin-scale-width="200" href="http://www.pinterest.com/formersize6/fs6-spring-style-inspiration/">Follow Mariel Sacco's board #fs6 spring style inspiration on Pinterest.</a>
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<script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-62383264353438923562014-04-02T19:20:00.000+02:002014-04-02T19:20:08.390+02:00Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Malta 2014The countdown has started people ... the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Malta 2014 is almost here. Well, it's less than 2 months away anyways. And this year I'm going to make it a point to be there from start to finish! Keep following for more info over the coming weeks! I'm getting excited ... are you?!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-19261026586393662282014-03-31T20:14:00.001+02:002014-03-31T20:14:32.067+02:00#ootd: Regatta Monday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This year I decided to continue where I left off last year, that is, by making it a year with a number of 'firsts'. So today, being Freedom Day and a national holiday here in Malta, we headed off to watch my first ever Regatta. From the little that I know about this boat race, it is hugely contested by the cities surrounding the Grand Harbour and it takes place both on Freedom Day and on Victory Day (8 September). Moreover, the beautiful weather that graced the island today called for spending the afternoon out in the sun. <br />
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To celebrate the weather, I chose to wear my new <a href="http://www.zara.com/mt/en/woman/outerwear/blazer-with-gathered-shoulders-c358002p1785025.html" target="_blank">Zara yellow blazer</a> which I bought a few weeks ago and hadn't worn as yet. I don't know why - I'm usually the most colourful thing walking around in Valletta - but I was feeling it was a tad too summery for the last weeks. I decided to also give my new <a href="http://www.hm.com/gb/product/23568?article=23568-B" target="_blank">leopard print espadrilles from H&M</a> a road test - the weather was warm enough to warrant not wearing any socks or stockings. I kept the rest of the outfit simple with grey, denim and beige neutrals and matched the print on my espadrilles to a scarf I had bought ages ago from Accessorize which has a vintage map print and leopard print trimming. <br />
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I was so chuffed with the outfit and with the gorgeous weather that I even got into a bit of a (clumsy) jump half way through the afternoon!<br />
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<i>What I wore: </i><br />
Blazer - Zara<br />
T-shirt - Zara<br />
Jeggings - Suite Blanco<br />
Espadrilles - H&M<br />
Handbag - Mango<br />
Scarf - Accessorize<br />
Sunglasses - Blumarine<br />
Necklaces - <a href="http://www.astridandmiyu.com/" target="_blank">Astrid & Miyu</a><br />
Ring - ParfoisAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-61824780223435313302014-03-30T11:21:00.001+02:002014-03-30T11:21:59.758+02:00App of the month: MyFitnessPalThis month's App of the month feature comes a week late because, as you know, last Sunday I was traipsing around Brussels, doing the touristy thing and I could post the feature as I had planned. You can read about my Brussels trip <a href="http://formersize6.blogspot.com/2014/03/life-imitating-art.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Anyway, partly inspired by the fact that I had some changing room let-downs while shopping in Brussels and partly inspired by the fact that the Malta Fashion Week is less than 2 months away and I want to look good in my favourite getups, this last week has been a calorie-counting reality check. And I find no better way of doing that than through the <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/" target="_blank">MyFitnessPal</a> app I have installed on both my iPhone and my iPad. There is also a web-based version which I use at times, but honestly speaking I find the mobile version so much more convenient. <br />
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The main reason for this is that I can really check my weight intake on-the-go as the app comes with a 'barcode scanning' feature which allows you to just scan the barcode of the food that you'd be about to have and hey presto! all the nutritional details are logged in on your profile according to the serving size you indicate. Most internationally renowned and available brands are listed so there's no excuse ... and there is even data for more local items such as Twistees, gbejna or galletti! If there really is an obscure product is not on the list, you can still add the details from the nutritional values table on the product itself (N.B - all products SHOULD have such labels - don't buy anything that doesn't: you have a right to know what's going into your body!)<br />
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Another feature which I love about this app (though I use it more on the web in this case) is the 'My Recipes' option. Cooking is one of my hobbies but I don't always necessarily follow recipes and like to get a bit creative in the kitchen. When I'm planning such a meal, I log into <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/" target="_blank">MyFitnessPal</a> and create the recipe online so I know what the nutritional value of such is, even before I cook it and eat it!<br />
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Last but not least, you can track your weight and exercise regimes on <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/" target="_blank">MyFitnessPal</a> as well. This week I've been weighing myself every single morning (this morning's peak was due to an ill-advised Badass Burger fest last night! urgh!) - I know that there are schools of thought which recommend against this, but I find that even the slightest move up or down on the scales motivates me to do better or to get back on track. I still have to get back into a proper exercise routine but with the Summer time kicking in today (much to my usual confusion) this should come easier as the days get longer. A great thing about it is that I can link my Endomondo exercise tracker to <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/" target="_blank">MyFitnessPal</a> and the two apps do all the work. There's a whole list of apps that can be linked to <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/" target="_blank">MyFitnessPal</a>.<br />
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For more information on MyFitnessPal, click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/myfitnesspal" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">N.B. This is not a paid or sponsored post and all opinions are my own thoughts. </span><div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-56480596158553319682014-03-29T06:43:00.000+01:002014-03-29T06:43:18.007+01:00Event Post: Sweet Treats Party by Jane Norman & OasisCandies on tap? Check. Fashion savvy advice? Check. 20% off gorgeous clothing? Check, check and triple check!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>of hearts and stripes </i></td></tr>
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A busy week came to a perfect ending with a fantastic shopping event at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JaneNormanMalta?ref=br_tf" target="_blank">Jane Norman</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OasisFashionsMalta" target="_blank">Oasis</a> in Valletta. Beautiful dresses and handbags (my all-time guilty pleasures) took my mind off the week's stress as I browsed the racks and made mental lists of what to buy (the self-imposed shopping ban has <i>looooooong </i>been lifted!) Unfortunately, since I was heading out to another event after this, I did not manage to do any shopping, but I will definitely pop in again pretty soon. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>this dress is perfect for every shape or size and the emerald colour is so flattering</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>breton stripes - one can never have enough of them</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>I love love love this dress! The embroidered neckline is so pretty!</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Swatching away with Dorianne</i></td></tr>
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Caroline from <a href="http://www.carolinefashionstyling.com/" target="_blank">Caroline's Fashion Styling</a> provided fashion advice to all the fashionistas who flocked to the store while Dorianne from <a href="http://www.askdorianne.com/" target="_blank">*ask Dorianne</a> guided those of us equally in love with make-up on the latest offerings by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pupa-Milano-in-Malta/121128924655875?ref=br_tf" target="_blank">Pupa Milano</a> - such gorgeous colours which really complemented the collection over at both <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JaneNormanMalta?ref=br_tf" target="_blank">Jane Norman</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OasisFashionsMalta" target="_blank">Oasis</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Pupa Milano stand at the event ... I have my eyes on that mat yellow nail polish - so fresh for the new season</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Caroline's dazzling smile and superb styling advice</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>bags in cute pastels and neutrals</i></td></tr>
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I admit I'm more of an <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OasisFashionsMalta" target="_blank">Oasis</a> girl so I spent most of my time at the event on the Oasis floor, eyeing up some delightfully embellished dresses in the perfect shades for spring, while my Mister patiently waited as I caught up with Caroline and Dorianne in the meantime. There's no stopping us girls when we meet :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-5926527745818506212014-03-27T18:42:00.001+01:002014-03-27T18:42:15.367+01:00The #nomakeupselfie postA few days ago, I was tagged by my friend and fellow blogger Caroline from <a href="http://www.carolinefashionstyling.com/" target="_blank">Caroline's Fashion Styling</a> to take part in the #nomakeupselfie campaign to increase awareness on breast cancer and raise funds towards this cause.<br />
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In all honesty, at first, I was hesitant to take part. You know full well by now my aversion to showing my face <i>sans maquilliage </i>in public ... and seeing so many people posting #nomakeupselfies without actually saying much about the cause being supported - breast cancer research and awareness - was at kind of putting me off. <br />
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But then I plucked up the necessary courage - after all, victims of breast cancer face their fate with courage. Why couldn't I pluck up some to show my bare face? I realised it was such a trivial concern in comparison to what they would be facing. Silly me. So here goes, not one but three #nomakeupselfies ... all taken this morning as I woke up, and all without any editing or flattering Instagram / Picmonkey / Pixlr filter!<br />
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And in case you're wondering, yes, I did contribute my little bit to the cause. I chose a local organisation - Action for Breast Cancer Foundation Malta, who<span style="background-color: white; color: #373737; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; line-height: 22.75px;"> </span>constantly and consistently work towards achieving the European guidelines for quality assurance in breast cancer screening and diagnosis in Malta and Gozo. You can find out more about Action for Breast Cancer Foundation Malta <a href="http://actionforbreastcancer.com/" target="_blank">here</a> and find out how you can contribute <a href="http://actionforbreastcancer.com/membership/donate/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Do your little bit too, come on.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-49743186846805502532014-03-24T21:11:00.000+01:002014-03-24T21:13:40.249+01:00Life imitating Art<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This weekend I allowed myself a little city break in the European capital - Brussels. I did try and tease you a bit about it in fact if you've been following my <a href="http://instagram.com/formersize6" target="_blank">instagram</a> (<a href="http://www.gramfeed.com/instagram/tags#fs6inbxl" target="_blank">#fs6inbxl</a>).<br />
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Unwittingly, to some extent, this trip turned into a 'life imitating art' episode, the art, being Guze Stagno's <i>What happens in Brussels stays in Brussels</i> (read my review <a href="http://formersize6.blogspot.com/2013/10/what-happens-in-brussels-according-to.html" target="_blank">here</a>). Let me just summarise why:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Through an odd turn of events, I was 'sort of' staying at the Hotel Des Colonies - the same one which Stagno's characters slept in (I was actually staying at the Hotel Siru, but the two are interlinked and with a joint reception / breakfast area at the moment); </li>
<li>Despite not taking a trip over to Bruges like the Stagno crowd did, I took the ultimate in tourist traps - a hop-on hop off bus ... which is ironic, seeing as I lost count of the times I've been to Brussels in the last 9 years; and</li>
<li>I finished off my stay much as the hapless group started it: lunching at L'Altro Mondo ... which did almost send me to the other world courtesy of a super-sized plate of pasta swimming in beschamel! </li>
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Ever since I've read the book, every trip to Brussels sees me looking out for the characters described, trying to see the Capital through their eyes ... but trying my best not to behave like them! </div>
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But besides the Stagno references, this trip was 'art-full' in another way: I spent my Saturday morning at the recently opened <i>fin-de-siecle</i> museum, soaking in a variety of art nouveu and realist pieces from the late 1800s. Once the 'traditional' art fix was had, I headed off for my regular stroll in search of street art and the murals which adorn a number of Bruxellian corners. Needless to say, my thirst for this type of art was more than quenched. </div>
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I feel that every time I dedicate a little extra time to this city, I find myself falling more and more in love with it. I will never love it as much as my own Valletta or adoptive Krakow - nor will it ever top my favourite cities list and topple Prague or Ljubljana from the top spots. </div>
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But Brussles has something that very few people - at least in my line of work - see beyond the Euro-grey. It is a vibrant city full of delightful contrasts: where the majesty of the Grand Place and the Old Town sit in a friendly arrangement with murals depicting Tin Tin and other Belgian cartoon characters as well as street art pieces by popular artists like Space Invader and less famous ones; art-nouveau avenues host contemporary luxury and high street stores; grey suits invade the lush green parks on sunny lunch-breaks. It is a city that has social problems which can be easily seen, but which I feel endorses its diversity and celebrates it - it is ultimately, the capital where all of Europe and beyond, meet. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-68717142531421723092014-03-19T10:31:00.000+01:002014-03-20T10:42:29.093+01:00Wednesday WishlistI realise that once again I've been a bit MIA in blogging - the usual <strike>excuses</strike> reasons come to mind (work commitments, errands, appointments) and added to that much needed quality time with my bf who's finally back on the island. You don't really blame me now, do you?! To make up for this lack of blogging, I'm making the most of this mid-week public holiday and bringing you a Wednesday Wishlist ... instead of packing for my work-trip / city break starting tomorrow that is! Priorities, priorities ...<br />
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Well, these are the items I'm currently craving, pretty badly ... even though practically each one of them comes with a little proviso. Read on, and help me choose which item(s) I should actually invest in, and which one(s) I should ditch.<br />
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<h3>
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A trench coat (it's a Mango vs Zara kind of thing ...)</span></h3>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KApmYl25QAY/UyljVRnbWzI/AAAAAAAAEH0/DcYP86SbT0w/s1600/mango+++zara+trench.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KApmYl25QAY/UyljVRnbWzI/AAAAAAAAEH0/DcYP86SbT0w/s1600/mango+++zara+trench.jpg.jpg" height="520" width="640" /></a></div>
This has been on my wishlist for a number of months now, but I've always opted for less classic pieces. Blame it on my new work life, or the final realisation that I'm hitting my mid-30s pretty soon, I'm starting to look at more classic items to place in my wardrobe. I love the texture of the <a href="http://shop.mango.com/MT/p0/mango/clothing/classic-cotton-trench-coat/?id=21090013_48&n=1&s=prendas.abrigos&ident=0__0_1395217641230&ts=1395217641230" target="_blank">Mango version</a> but I'm a bit miffed it's not fully lined. On the other hand, the <a href="http://www.zara.com/mt/en/woman/coats/double-breasted-raincoat-c367501p1668084.html" target="_blank">Zara version</a> is fully lined and the perfect length for my height but I'm not so thrilled with the material. Decisions, decisions ... unless, of course, I decide to spend my whole paycheck on a real Burberry ... mmmm....<br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Superga classic white sneakers</span></h3>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZerOlD78x_w/Uyljc6LhsBI/AAAAAAAAEH8/eh9WIA6HEf0/s1600/superga+white.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZerOlD78x_w/Uyljc6LhsBI/AAAAAAAAEH8/eh9WIA6HEf0/s1600/superga+white.jpg" height="380" width="640" /></a></div>
A throwback to my Physical Edu lessons back in primary and secondary school, <a href="http://www.superga.co.uk/item/Brand_Superga2750CotuClassic_439_0_929_1.html" target="_blank">plain white sneakers</a> are one of my current 'must-haves' in my wardrobe. Perfectly adorkable when ditching the daily heels at the weekend, they can look equally cute and on trend with cuffed jeans, ditsy dresses and why not, even with a dressed down trouser suit. My dilemma on this piece is whether to go for canvas or seek more durable (and easily cared-for) leather. <br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kenzo x New Era flower block cap</span></h3>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tnfFaWjIGZ4/Uyljm4veBGI/AAAAAAAAEIE/wL8bMkE1kSA/s1600/kenzo_access_eshop_l_hotte_31508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tnfFaWjIGZ4/Uyljm4veBGI/AAAAAAAAEIE/wL8bMkE1kSA/s1600/kenzo_access_eshop_l_hotte_31508.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
I fell in love with <a href="https://www.kenzo.com/en/shop/women_101/kenzo-x-new-era_1277/new-era-block-flower_10580/" target="_blank">this topper</a> the minute I laid eyes on it - the coral and aqua colour combination is just perfect for summer, and the pattern and oversized embroidered logo is just such fun. The problem is, I can't really see me wearing it, nor can I see where / when I would wear it! I'm no longer much of a beach bum, so that's out of the equation already ... Saturday morning markets? Glammed up with heels for the weekend? I'm so confused!<br />
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<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Moschino Jeremy Scott FW14-15 iPhone 5 case</span></h3>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gOh4GDk49c8/UyljsgvX_5I/AAAAAAAAEIM/fQL4uywg6AI/s1600/06-MOSCHINO-CAPSULE-FW-2014-BACK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gOh4GDk49c8/UyljsgvX_5I/AAAAAAAAEIM/fQL4uywg6AI/s1600/06-MOSCHINO-CAPSULE-FW-2014-BACK.jpg" height="640" width="538" /></a></div>
This thing just grew on me. When the pictures of the Jeremy Scott capsule collection for Moschino's FW14-15 started emerging, I'll be honest with you: I was scratching my head no end. I just couldn't come to terms with the whole McDonalds inspiration. But without realising, my heart started settling on <a href="http://www.moschino.com/gb/iphone-5_cod51119170ak.html?collection_id=26929" target="_blank">the fries shaped iPhone case</a>. After my Marc Jacobs 'Shorty' pug shaped case proved to be quite a conversation starter last year, I can't wait to own this one now ...<br />
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So there goes. These four items are actually not letting me sleep soundly. I'm serious. Please do help me out in this oh-so-first-wordly decision process ...<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-29398331759602035012014-03-10T18:18:00.002+01:002014-03-10T18:18:31.715+01:00Exhibition: REGNVM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnO98cenDDQ/Uxq3cF1GKwI/AAAAAAAAEGM/sVf0WHgIlVA/s1600/DSCF2661.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnO98cenDDQ/Uxq3cF1GKwI/AAAAAAAAEGM/sVf0WHgIlVA/s1600/DSCF2661.jpg.jpg" height="466" width="640" /></a></div>
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A couple of weeks ago I was lucky to attend the opening of photographer <a href="http://www.krismicallef.com/" target="_blank">Kris Micallef</a>'s exhibition and book launch REGNVM at <a href="http://thisisblitz.com/" target="_blank">Blitz</a> in Valletta. I'll be honest with you - this was more of a social event as, with all the people attending, and my being vertically challenged I only got glimpses of the artworks on display. But those tiny glimpses were enough to make me want to see more. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5a1FI-kkQc/Uxq4Wrz2TSI/AAAAAAAAEGs/Wi3iSLJgMl8/s1600/DSCF2668.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5a1FI-kkQc/Uxq4Wrz2TSI/AAAAAAAAEGs/Wi3iSLJgMl8/s1600/DSCF2668.jpg.jpg" height="464" width="640" /></a></div>
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So I headed back to the exhibition last weekend, bright and early to allow myself the time to be engulfed in beauty of these images. Kris Micallef is a Maltese photographer, best known for his work in fashion editorials and campaigns. His architectural background presents itself in an incredible sensitivity in choreographing form, focus and light through his landscapes and portraits. <br />
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Walking around Blitz, taking my time in front of every photograph, I could feel this sensitivity. All images are taken underwater and the fluidity of the medium surrounding the model-dancers inundates the viewer in an otherworldly manner. Entering REGNVM, you are entering another world - a world with a sometimes blurry vision of delicately shaped bodies, but who emit strength through their eyes and sculpted features. The three elements - the bodies (solid), the sea (liquid) and the air (gas) - are fused together by the artist in these images which are at times serene and at times disconcerting. <br />
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<br />
My favourite piece, by far, is one where a male figure is suspended in mid-descent into the water. I loved how Kris captured that fraction of a second before the body was fully submerged - that feeling of belonging to two spaces, above and under water; that sense of 'letting go' which you get when you're diving / jumping into the sea or even just easing yourself into a bath. You feel like you're letting yourself go into a peaceful space, and yet, there is always an element of 'unknown' which somewhat rattles you. <br />
<br />
Most of the works are in monochrome, which I felt gave the water a mercurial feel making it more tangible; however, I must confess that my favourites where those images captured in colour, where the tonalities of the sea were captured in their deepest blues.<br />
<br />
I asked Kris a couple of questions to put this exhibition into some more perspective:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>FS6: What came first: the diving skills or the photo shoot/book inspiration?</b> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>KM: I have always been fascinated by underwater portraiture. The idea for REGNVM came before I was equipped to actually work on it. After buying the necessary equipment I decided to do a scuba diving course. It was a fantastic experience which opened a lot of new opportunities. In the end I opted not to use scuba and free dive instead - I found it to be much easier for what I had in mind. The idea of a story book came along while working on the project. I was happy that the story I had in mind was coming out through the photos but we thought that it would be a great idea to capture the series of photographs in one book and include a short story woven around the pictures. This is where Adrian Mamo and I decided to get in touch with creative writer Stanley Borg and together worked on my first publication - REGNVM.</i></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>FS6: You chose a crowd funding platform for this project. How did the Maltese public react to it? And more broadly, how easy / difficult was it to reach your targets?</b> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>KM: I decided to opt for crowd funding as one of my main funding sources for the REGNVM exhibition and publication. I had already heard about crowd funding platforms such as indiegogo and kickstarter and I had also contributed to a few artists' campaigns. I thought that this would be a great opportunity and also a great risk however the crowd funding campaign was received with great reactions and infact I reached more than my target of EUR5,000. (<a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/regnvm">www.indiegogo.com/projects/regnvm</a>) Many people had not heard of crowd funding before and I think that now the local scene is more aware of other alternatives that can help them make their projects happen. It has helped me make one of my dreams come true - my first exhibition in Malta and my very first publication! I'm very happy with the support I've had and with the feedback I've received since the exhibition has been launched. My crowd funding campaign was supported by contributors from Malta, South Africa, Canada, Russia, Belgium, Holland, Uk, Germany, Brazil, Czech Republic,Gibraltar, Italy! REGNVM is also supported by Malta Arts Fund, Lux-It Lighting, Maxmotion, thesmartskinclinic, Smugglers, Selkies, MJK Transport.</i></blockquote>
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All the prints on display are for sale, so you can make the REGNVM world part of your own. There's also the book, with even more images and a set of postcards, all available from Blitz. The exhibition is open until 20th March 2014. If you're out and about in Valletta, I suggest you dive into the surreal realm of REGNVM and leave the busy city life behind. You owe it to yourself.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-79493567553157851902014-03-07T18:40:00.000+01:002014-03-07T18:40:41.001+01:00Style Icon: Brigitte Bardot<div class="tr_bq">
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I honestly do not know why this post has taken me so long to write: I started researching Brigitte Bardot about a week ago, planning this post, <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/aka_tikka/fs6-style-icon-brigitte-bardot/" target="_blank">pinning my favourite images on Pinterest</a>, thinking 'oh, this should be easy, Bardot being one of my all time style icons.' So many things got in the way of it, but finally here it is. <br />
<br />
Why is Bardot one of my 'all time style icons'? Well, first off, she had a way of celebrating her curves without being trashy. Of course, being French, an effortless approach to style was probably ingrained in her genes. Her cinched outfits baring a hit of shoulder are synonymous with the 'sex kitten' look, which however remains sensually elegant without being overtly raunchy. Paired with a classic cat-eye flick of black eye-liner and bed-head hairstyle, the bombshell look is complete.<br />
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<br />
<blockquote>
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">In 1970, sculptor Alain Gourdon used French actress Brigitte Bardot as the model for a bust of Marianne — the symbol of France — and four years later Andy Warhol captured her in an iconic pop art portrait. But Bardot — a curvaceous blonde with a kittenish grin — wasn't merely a muse: she was also a trendsetter. She helped popularize the bikini by wearing two-pieces in films like Manina, the Girl in the Bikini (1952). She's also credited with sparking the trend of knitwear with a wide neck that exposes both shoulders — the so-called "Bardot neckline." A former ballet dancer, she once asked designer Rose Repetto to make shoes as light as her dance slippers. Voilà: the everyday ballerina flat was born.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">(<a href="https://www.blogger.com/Brigitte%20Bardot%20-%20All-TIME%20Top%20100%20Icons%20in%20Fashion,%20Style%20and%20Design%20-%20TIME%20http://content.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,2110513_2110627_2110747,00.html%20#ixzz2vIXNTSBL" target="_blank">Time</a>)</span></i></blockquote>
<h3>
Get the look:</h3>
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Bardot and off-the-shoulder necklines are popular again and easy to come by right now. Stick to fitted silhouettes on top paired with midi skirts in either full or pencil shapes. Cigarette pants which graze the ankle combined with a breton-stripe top and ballerina pumps are contemporary yet evocative of the 60s Riviera, especially with topped with a broad headband. Anything in fur or animal hide must be faux, in-keeping with Bardot's animal rights activism.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Shop the look: </h3>
<br />
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<!--END SHOPCADE WIDGET CODE -->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-72170581895586822092014-03-03T17:30:00.000+01:002014-03-03T17:30:00.771+01:00My Fashion / Beauty Pet PeevesOk, let's just bear in mind that it is Monday, and a rant is always therapeutic on this first, most trying day of the week. Today I bring you my fashion and beauty pet peeves - the things that I just can't bear in any way, shape or form, and that every time I lay my eyes on, I cringe and pray for there to really be a Fashion / Beauty Police to charge the wrong-does. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vVPIcLVia68/UxL2MvPX71I/AAAAAAAAEFA/e4s9GKOicWI/s1600/Joan+Rivers+flashes+Fashion+Police+badge+around+c2x88brbJh7l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vVPIcLVia68/UxL2MvPX71I/AAAAAAAAEFA/e4s9GKOicWI/s1600/Joan+Rivers+flashes+Fashion+Police+badge+around+c2x88brbJh7l.jpg" height="500" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So let me go all Joan Rivers on these:<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The jacket: bomber</span></li>
</ul>
This is the least forgiving of all shapes. You have to be rake thin to carry it off and it has to sit right on the waist-line. Cropped versions just make one look like an American football player while longer versions just drown the figure and not in the appealing way boyfriend blazers / coats do.<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The pants: mum jeans</span></li>
</ul>
High-waisted, loose around the hips/bum shaped jeans and shorts are a hipster girl's heaven. But not mine. Possibly because I remember these jeans way too well from the first time they were round. Dear millennials, you're not doing yourselves any favour with these jeans. If you really need to go high-waisted, the slim-hipped bell-bottom ones from the 70s are way cooler. I promise.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fY0HhKaJ098/UxLQ7o-bOpI/AAAAAAAAED8/Nztax0XN19o/s1600/f82ab09bc5f5758575982c52bb192010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fY0HhKaJ098/UxLQ7o-bOpI/AAAAAAAAED8/Nztax0XN19o/s1600/f82ab09bc5f5758575982c52bb192010.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Bomber jacket + mum jeans - pinned from vogue.es in this arguably adorkable look, but just doesn't work for me ... sorry!</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The skirts: micro-mini</span></li>
</ul>
Anything which is shorter than 2 inches above the knee is a no-go zone for me. Not because I'm a prude. It's because of the message lengths impart. Such short skirts can hardly ever infer an air of elegance and sophistication, unless worn with opaque tights. And even that is pushing it. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fdumb7T0LYk/UxLTTc2T8DI/AAAAAAAAEEI/y_c-Ykdv-Lk/s1600/a4fbe31e4ccbfa6a9199a500be0aefc1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fdumb7T0LYk/UxLTTc2T8DI/AAAAAAAAEEI/y_c-Ykdv-Lk/s1600/a4fbe31e4ccbfa6a9199a500be0aefc1.jpg" height="640" width="302" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The best - and modesty saving - way of wearing very short skirts is by pairing them with opaque tights and oversized tops.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The tops: ruffled shirts</span></li>
</ul>
Anything with ruffles really. Despite being a very girly-girl, I'm averse to most things ruffled. Especially when the said ruffles are strategically placed around the placket front. Busty girls like yours truly end up with a <i>fin de siecle</i> look reminiscent of Downton Abbey's Dowager Lady Grantham ...<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The dresses: body-con</span></li>
</ul>
I don't know how many times I've said this, but I just hate body-con dresses. This is most definitely because, as a curvy girl I can't quite pull them off as well as a skinny (UK) size 4 or 6 girl. But when I look at curvy celebrities squeezed into such dresses, I just feel they are trying to hard. And I don't want to be like them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mF9BUPZwGSY/UxLUDi1dSXI/AAAAAAAAEEQ/nZcnbVoMzB0/s1600/9ac3153492f8621c14251fc2fba636b8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mF9BUPZwGSY/UxLUDi1dSXI/AAAAAAAAEEQ/nZcnbVoMzB0/s1600/9ac3153492f8621c14251fc2fba636b8.jpg" height="640" width="474" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Body-con might be short for 'body confidence' and Kim K sure isn't lacking of any of that. But with such a skin tight dress, she leaves little to the imagination (we've seen it all before anyway, whether we wanted or not!)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The shoes: platform stilettos</span></li>
</ul>
I've had a few of these. And I've managed to fall or trip in each and every one of them. This may be the basis of my aversion, but for quite obvious reasons, they kind of remind me of the shoes the less savoury characters used to take off just pre-fist-fight on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1i_RulUaiSM" target="_blank">The Jerry Springer Show</a> back in the day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--_lDZ1kWMLA/UxLvEUkIZ4I/AAAAAAAAEEg/2MND9dboYjU/s1600/a771817894ed218ad2db05413056f557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--_lDZ1kWMLA/UxLvEUkIZ4I/AAAAAAAAEEg/2MND9dboYjU/s1600/a771817894ed218ad2db05413056f557.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Not for the faint hearted, and not for me.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The bag: cheap looking bags</span></li>
</ul>
There are some really nice bags around which are of fantastic quality, even in non-leather varieties, which still don't cost a fortune. Why oh why would one therefore choose to buy a bag made of tatty material that is quite obviously the cheapest of plastics, adorned with some ridiculous glittered chiffon rosette in a matching shade of bubble-gum pink? Why?<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The make-up: matching eye-shadow and nail lacquer</span></li>
</ul>
I have to qualify this: I'm an adventurer when it comes to nail lacquer but extremely conservative when it comes to eye make-up. I like my make-up to complement the outfit by picking up notes from the pattern or contrasting with the main colour. But having, say, blue eye-shadow and blue nails? Not for me! Especially if the rest of the outfit is of the same colour.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cel1OMt59QU/UxLxZT4H9RI/AAAAAAAAEEs/60qzsME9KPk/s1600/f030c1991b788a0b0c25aad91e61b234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cel1OMt59QU/UxLxZT4H9RI/AAAAAAAAEEs/60qzsME9KPk/s1600/f030c1991b788a0b0c25aad91e61b234.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Perfect on an editorial, much harder to pull off in real life.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The hair: perfectly formed top-knot</span></li>
</ul>
Overly-coiffed hair is my nightmare. And the donut-shaped top-knot, when it's perfectly done, with no stray hairs or straggling ringlets jutting out of it takes the biscuit in my opinion. What started off as (another) hipster trend has been mainstreamed into ubiquitousness. And it is not nice. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JJbQqbOqaL0/UxLyV0gd7tI/AAAAAAAAEE4/6lKQNf89GRs/s1600/91d3d6f132b9ba634a36e931b6417e3e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JJbQqbOqaL0/UxLyV0gd7tI/AAAAAAAAEE4/6lKQNf89GRs/s1600/91d3d6f132b9ba634a36e931b6417e3e.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Top-knots are by nature, relaxed hairdos so the operative word here is to actually keep them relaxed!</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Now, now, as a rant, this post is not intended to be offensive to anyone. I just needed to get these things off my chest - it's only my opinion and I'm sure it counts mostly for just me! I'm also sure that there are other things that make my skin crawl: for instance, the skort and the wedged trainers, but I'm guilty of owning both so I can't hate them as much as I'd like. <br />
<br />
Do you have any fashion / beauty pet hates? Come on, I know you do ... let me know xxxAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-31973716374835354612014-03-01T15:00:00.000+01:002014-03-01T15:00:13.601+01:00Carnival in VallettaEven though I can't really remember when was the last time I dressed up in full costume and make-up for Carnival, I have a strange affinity with this time of the year. <br />
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It's a love-hate relationship really, much like the one I have with the Eurovision song contest. I hate the cheesy music, the hackneyed dance-routines, the overly-dressed kids and the adults who try to look like kids in their 'fun' outfits. Both Carnival and Eurovision have these things. And yet, every time either of them approaches, I'm overtaken by a strange need to somehow be part of the scene. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Brazilian carnival representation on the streets of the Maltese Capital</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>National treasure George Curmi 'il-Puse' on the King Carnival float, protecting his violin from the rain</i></td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWSbd_Mwq7A/UxHiJpmCigI/AAAAAAAAEC8/zXpzFp3LV0Y/s1600/DSCF2690.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWSbd_Mwq7A/UxHiJpmCigI/AAAAAAAAEC8/zXpzFp3LV0Y/s1600/DSCF2690.jpg.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once I finished my errands this morning, I headed to the streets of Valletta in search of some Carnival spirit. Now that I'm living in the City, it came as a much easier task to accomplish. The children's dances were taking place on St George's Square (including a reprise of the "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_miGclPFGs" target="_blank">one pound fish</a>" song which you can see <a href="http://instagram.com/p/k_13xALVLq/" target="_blank">here</a>) and I couldn't but admire those kids bearing the cold and rain that had started drizzling by then while going through their choreography. A couple of floats, including King Carnival drove past Republic Street as I was going round. I would have loved to catch the satirical floats which I believe were also going round, but there's still a few days left of the festival so I might still be in with the chance of seeing them. (Satire was only brought back this year after a very long absence - maybe finally this little island has reached the necessary maturity to know how to laugh at itself.)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mt6M_1kA0sg/UxHiXqwnI6I/AAAAAAAAEDY/VVbDVJ6mOJg/s1600/DSCF2703.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mt6M_1kA0sg/UxHiXqwnI6I/AAAAAAAAEDY/VVbDVJ6mOJg/s1600/DSCF2703.jpg.jpg" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Merry making marching band</i></td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5zuUhtZ-ujE/UxHiW2rKiTI/AAAAAAAAEDM/NDradmT7drs/s1600/DSCF2711.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5zuUhtZ-ujE/UxHiW2rKiTI/AAAAAAAAEDM/NDradmT7drs/s1600/DSCF2711.jpg.jpg" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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I feel this strange urge to be part of Carnival - the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maltese_Carnival" target="_blank">traditional</a> one, not the <a href="http://www.maltainsideout.com/9703/the-nadur-carnival/" target="_blank">Nadur</a> one - might be due to my Peter Pan complex. I shudder to think I will ever grow old, at least mentally. I don't want to ever become bitter and jaded.<br />
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The innocence and lust for life in childhood are too precious to let go of ... <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHm52_eSxjI/UxHikg-BeHI/AAAAAAAAEDs/mnzwEEtoISk/s1600/DSCF2715.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHm52_eSxjI/UxHikg-BeHI/AAAAAAAAEDs/mnzwEEtoISk/s1600/DSCF2715.jpg.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Sweet temptations before the Lenten fast</i></td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-87032095067833098332014-02-28T18:00:00.000+01:002014-02-28T18:00:09.684+01:00Lemon topping<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If there is one thing I'm really dying to wear right now is my new yellow blazer. Yes, yellow. The bright, sunny colour that evokes all things spring and summery. It's not that I am a summery person per se, but I just love the colour so much and I don't think I had really come across any before this week when I headed over to </span><a href="http://www.zara.com/mt/" style="font-family: inherit;">Zara</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">. </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lemon_topping/set?.embedder=2512269&.svc=blogger&id=114787926" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img alt="lemon topping" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/F3PTLbulvy7YopAVn6Bw/cid/114787926/id/9Fyg4O6f4xGnR9H9mu7EJQ/size/c600x600.jpg" force="1" title="lemon topping" /></a></div>
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<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/lemon_topping/set?.embedder=2512269&.svc=blogger&id=114787926" target="_blank">lemon topping</a> by <a href="http://tikkamars.polyvore.com/?.embedder=2512269&.svc=blogger" target="_blank">tikkamars</a> featuring <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/fitted_dresses/shop?query=fitted+dresses" target="_blank">fitted dresses</a></small><br />
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I love how, despite being a primary colour, yellow lends itself as well as a neutral, pairing up with monochrome for a classic look, with pastels and metallics for a sophisticated yet on trend combination, or even with bold pattern clashes ready to be snapped for a street-style blog. <br />
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My ex-colleagues know my obsession with this brand way too well and got me a very nice voucher as a farewell gift and one of my little purchases was the yellow blazer on the top right of this <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/set?id=114787926" target="_blank">Polyvore</a> set. If I could I'd have got all the three <a href="http://www.zara.com/mt/" target="_blank">Zara</a> jackets featured here, and the shoes <i>et al</i>!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-70615482134721938742014-02-27T19:44:00.000+01:002014-02-27T19:44:51.998+01:00Settling in ... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOc2Z8hoQD8/Uw-FpPjCFyI/AAAAAAAAECE/J7Kuh3cIqY0/s1600/IMG_3427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tOc2Z8hoQD8/Uw-FpPjCFyI/AAAAAAAAECE/J7Kuh3cIqY0/s1600/IMG_3427.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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As you may recall from my last #ootd post (which you can read <a href="http://formersize6.blogspot.com/2014/02/ootd-i-tried-to-look-royal.html" target="_blank">here</a>), I have very recently started a new job; <i>and</i>, if you're following my erratic #fs6daily on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/111305667@N08/" target="_blank">Flickr</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/formersize6" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, you'll also know that I've even more recently moved to a new apartment.<br />
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Such changes all at one go, do not come easy.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4BUn9g82ueU/Uw-GKBxnH0I/AAAAAAAAECM/Z30sPVBe5Pc/s1600/IMG_3421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4BUn9g82ueU/Uw-GKBxnH0I/AAAAAAAAECM/Z30sPVBe5Pc/s1600/IMG_3421.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Getting used to new colleagues, new workloads and new work ethics, <i>new dress code</i> ... getting used to (once again) fending for myself when it comes to cooking and carrying out the house chores ... well, it is not easy. <br />
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But that is the beauty of life, and it's a life I recommend to all: Don't be afraid of trying new experiences. Don't get comfortable in your routine. Challenge your own abilities and people's perceptions of yourself. It is only through overcoming such challenges that you'll know - and let others know - your worth. <br />
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Oh, and smile all the way through it!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-29807668301796404462014-02-23T14:30:00.000+01:002014-02-23T14:30:15.919+01:00App of the month: MoldivHands up those of you who are Instagram addicts? Come on, don't be shy. I'm the first one to admit it - I was on tenterhooks until it had opened up for Android users during my pre-iPhone days ... I never looked back since <a href="http://instagram.com/p/I930DgrVGS/" target="_blank">my first insta pic</a> way back in April 2012.<br />
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But let's face it, sometimes the 19 filters and frames are just not enough. Sometimes you need that specific vintagey hue to make your skin-tone look more dreamy in your millionth selfie, or accentuate your mono-with-a pop-of-colour #ootd ... In walks Moldiv to save the day.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SWNOhUnWDJw/Uwn1UUAFl2I/AAAAAAAAEAI/zPxcZz4yBt0/s1600/902430_142560655922175_842608312_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SWNOhUnWDJw/Uwn1UUAFl2I/AAAAAAAAEAI/zPxcZz4yBt0/s1600/902430_142560655922175_842608312_o.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></a></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Moldiv lets you combine and edit multiple photos to make amazing collages. Moldiv has fantastic frames and lots of professional editing options. Especially Moldiv offers awesome photo effects and great decoration features like text captions and numerous stamps.<br /> <br />Make your stories in Moldiv and share them on your favorite social media networks including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. (<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/moldiv-collage-photo-editor/id608188610?mt=8" target="_blank">Moldiv</a>)</i></blockquote>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3BC9QUaoqgs/Uwn1t3k3NhI/AAAAAAAAEAQ/SJrmWFDgGkE/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3BC9QUaoqgs/Uwn1t3k3NhI/AAAAAAAAEAQ/SJrmWFDgGkE/s1600/photo.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-45uDhtbmjOg/Uwn1uXKwO_I/AAAAAAAAEAU/g4EC7pXKo_E/s1600/photo_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-45uDhtbmjOg/Uwn1uXKwO_I/AAAAAAAAEAU/g4EC7pXKo_E/s1600/photo_1.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nMpw70a0As4/Uwn1uitbnSI/AAAAAAAAEAc/kMAcUv1Whpk/s1600/photo_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nMpw70a0As4/Uwn1uitbnSI/AAAAAAAAEAc/kMAcUv1Whpk/s1600/photo_2.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Txq4RlSnMo/Uwn1v8X0LYI/AAAAAAAAEAo/UhVgvjkulAM/s1600/photo_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4Txq4RlSnMo/Uwn1v8X0LYI/AAAAAAAAEAo/UhVgvjkulAM/s1600/photo_3.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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What I love about Moldiv is the fact you can create collages - even without following the set templates - as well as stitch photos together as you deem fit. I love the flexibility of having a straight-edged, rounded or no frame at all. There are of course also premium packages which you can upgrade to to give you added flexibility - but the starter pack - which comes FREE-HEEEE - gives you so much already that you're definitely going to get hooked. I'm just showing you some basics in these screen-grabs but I encourage you to try it for yourselves. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-InWbci2XqJk/Uwn1wu0SZVI/AAAAAAAAEA0/wDllOhRS2XE/s1600/photo_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-InWbci2XqJk/Uwn1wu0SZVI/AAAAAAAAEA0/wDllOhRS2XE/s1600/photo_4.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fDQu0jPVO4k/Uwn2xqE6kYI/AAAAAAAAEA8/Z3U2FhH3hFc/s1600/photo_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fDQu0jPVO4k/Uwn2xqE6kYI/AAAAAAAAEA8/Z3U2FhH3hFc/s1600/photo_5.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9DSWZ2IbcO4/Uwn2yCNPDBI/AAAAAAAAEBA/Y3iiUGPoeO4/s1600/photo_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9DSWZ2IbcO4/Uwn2yCNPDBI/AAAAAAAAEBA/Y3iiUGPoeO4/s1600/photo_6.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHf_RGRbv2c/Uwn2yTgmelI/AAAAAAAAEBE/09V7-VYO76o/s1600/photo_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHf_RGRbv2c/Uwn2yTgmelI/AAAAAAAAEBE/09V7-VYO76o/s1600/photo_7.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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For more information on Moldiv, click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/moldivpro" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">N.B. This is not a paid or sponsored post and all opinions are my own thoughts. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-77169719288136381912014-02-18T21:34:00.000+01:002014-02-18T21:34:00.272+01:00#ootd: I tried to look royal ... As I mentioned in my last post, today marked the start of a new life. Well, part of. The other part - moving to my new flat - should hopefully come pretty soon. <br />
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Starting a new job is always a daunting experience, and first impressions are unfortunately the one to last. And that first impression, mostly comes from what one is wearing. So I looked to an always impeccably dressed, if unorthodox / unlikely fashion icon for inspiration: Queen Elizabeth II. Yes, you read it right, the British Monarch herself!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gjXeWL7o8lo/UwPBOC3ithI/AAAAAAAAD_c/0UDNLk8NWe8/s1600/IMG_3400.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gjXeWL7o8lo/UwPBOC3ithI/AAAAAAAAD_c/0UDNLk8NWe8/s1600/IMG_3400.jpg.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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You must admit that the Queen is always so well put together, and I do find her dress + dress-coat combination to be a quintessential effortless chic look, even if it is pretty much <i>always</i> the same, save for the colour (which is usually one from a spectrum of pastels ... she is the top lady in lavender after all!)<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GczVuHzW_o0/UwPBaGmriMI/AAAAAAAAD_k/7LFIGG7so9k/s1600/IMG_3401.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GczVuHzW_o0/UwPBaGmriMI/AAAAAAAAD_k/7LFIGG7so9k/s1600/IMG_3401.jpg.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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So I took a page out of her lookbook and wore my new H&M salmon single-button coat (<a href="http://www.hm.com/gb/product/23680?article=23680-A" target="_blank">shown here in black</a>) which I got for Valentine's among other things and paired it with a navy Zara dress which I've had for quite some time and is more or less the same length of the coat. Navy and salmon might not be an obvious combination, but I accessorised with my <a href="http://formersize6.blogspot.com/2013/12/spot-on-sef-farrugia.html" target="_blank">Sef Farrugia Delores scarf</a> which has both colours in its pattern, as well as a touch of blood red which matched my new <a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/shoes-430/view-all-748/kathleen-patent-pointed-shoes-2576156?bi=1&ps=200" target="_blank">TopShop Kathleen patent pointed shoes</a>. The finishing touch came through my brand <a href="http://www.zara.com/mt/en/woman/handbags/mini-city-bag-c358019p1669067.html" target="_blank">new navy Zara mini city bag</a> which I feel has such a Jackie-O meets Queen E-II look. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DPRFUo7hJyE/UwPBlbpakOI/AAAAAAAAD_s/wEIldioUs5o/s1600/IMG_3396.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DPRFUo7hJyE/UwPBlbpakOI/AAAAAAAAD_s/wEIldioUs5o/s1600/IMG_3396.jpg.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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The photos here, I must admit, are not of a quality fit for a Queen ... but what do you think of the look?<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-28908751422978933342014-02-17T05:14:00.000+01:002014-02-17T05:14:55.736+01:00In Krakow, with loveAs I write this, I am trying to come to terms with the fact that my holiday in Krakow is over. As I mentioned in my last post, I headed off to Krakow once again to spend Valentine's Day next to my boyfriend who's still finishing his course there. Long distance relationships can be hard, but when there is willingness and determination to make things work from both sides, there's nothing to worry about.<br />
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Anyway, the holiday also served another purpose: a week of clearing my mind and restoring myself before I embark on a new job opportunity and move to a new apartment, to living life on my own again, hopefully pretty soon. It's pretty much a case of 'it never rains but it pours' for me. But that is the beauty of this life - never a dull moment. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-27531572386913016702014-02-06T19:33:00.000+01:002014-02-06T19:33:14.355+01:00candy crush valentineHere I am, blogging away, instead of packing for my all-important trip next week to spend Valentine's Day with my very own Valentine ... but it's all in good faith. I'm virtually planning my wardrobe for my trip ... or rather, what I want to buy <i>on my trip! </i><br />
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This time round, I'm doing this through <a href="https://www.grabble.co.uk/about" target="_blank">Grabble</a>, a new online platform which allows you to find all your favourite stores in one place. What's more, you can add garments you like directly from the online store of choice on to <a href="https://www.grabble.co.uk/about" target="_blank">Grabble</a> and you'll get notifications when there are offers on your items of choice! Another feature which I'm really loving on <a href="https://www.grabble.co.uk/about" target="_blank">Grabble</a> is the fact that you can add items to lists according to styles ... so you'll always have your hipster or girly chic mood-board at hand. Smiles all around!<br />
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My current obsession at the moment is pastel colours, even though I'm not so sure I'd wear them well ... but with Valentine's round the corner, there's nothing better than these candy-coloured get-ups to get you in the mood for lurve. Don't you agree? Check out these girly and gorgeous items, all available from ASOS and click <a href="https://www.grabble.co.uk/store/index/id/6448" target="_blank">here</a> for the full list.<br />
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<iframe height="100%" scrolling="auto" src="https://www.grabble.co.uk/store/widget/id/6448" style="border: 1px solid #CCCCCC;" width="100%"></iframe>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-54632793365278768502014-02-05T21:58:00.001+01:002014-02-05T21:58:48.268+01:00Fashion Tag! Right, so this is my first ever tag post ... and it had to be one about <b>fashion</b> so I'm more than happy to follow through with it! I got 'tagged' by <a href="http://bonjourchica.com/" target="_blank">Bonjour Chica</a> ... you know, the girl who featured me in her Petite Fashionistas a la Mode series (you can read it <a href="http://bonjourchica.com/2014/02/04/petite-fashionista-a-la-mode-mariel/" target="_blank">here</a>) ... so I couldn't just leave this tag unanswered, could I?!<br />
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So here goes ...<br />
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<span style="color: #660000;">1. What is your favourite style to wear?</span></h4>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aEoJk3sfaLM/UvKjllCloPI/AAAAAAAAD6I/07s1fMYIXbM/s1600/alexa11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aEoJk3sfaLM/UvKjllCloPI/AAAAAAAAD6I/07s1fMYIXbM/s1600/alexa11.jpg" height="640" width="414" /></a>I would say it's preppy with a vintage, Parisian twist: I like basics that can be mixed and matched into endless combinations, but I like them to have that hint of quirkiness or vintage appeal to make them unique.<br /><br /><h4>
<span style="color: #660000;">2. Who is your fashion role model?</span></h4>
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Without hesitation, I would definitely say Alexa Chung ... but given my height (or lack of it!) I look at Mira Duma and Kourtney Kardashian's style for inspiration most of the time.<br /><br /><h4>
<span style="color: #660000;">3. What do you always have on?</span></h4>
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A watch - time keeping is a pet obsession of mine.<br /><br /><h4>
<span style="color: #660000;">4. What are your favourite jeans?</span></h4>
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I'm not a fan of pants as I've said a number of times already, but if I really have to choose jeans, they have to be jeggings so as not to give me extra thickness on my belly area - I just hate the added inches zipper flies tend to give! </div>
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<span style="color: #660000;">5. Who influenced you to write about fashion?</span></h4>
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I don't think there was one specific influence. Fashion has always been in my system and writing about it just came as a second nature once I decided to sit down and start a blog. Originally, this blog was meant to journal my progress or otherwise in terms of dieting and look where I am now!<br /><br /><h4>
<span style="color: #660000;">6. What is your favourite store?</span></h4>
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Like you don't know!?! Zara of course, with ASOS as a very close second. I'm on first name basis with most of the Zara store staff in Sliema ... and I'm probably infamous over at the ASOS HQ as well!<br /><br /><h4>
<span style="color: #660000;">7. Who is your favourite fashion person on YouTube?</span></h4>
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I'm not so huge on YouTube but again, if I really have to choose it'd have to be Michelle Phan. I love her make-up and beauty tips and her personal story on how she grew into a YouTube star is inspirational.<br /><br /><h4>
<span style="color: #660000;">8. What is your favourite fabric?</span></h4>
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Anything stiff that once sewn and worn stays as intended and doesn't cling or sag in unwanted places.<br /><br /><h4>
<span style="color: #660000;">9. Who is your favourite model?</span></h4>
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Right now, I'm really liking Suki Waterhouse - her innocent Mod girl look really strikes me ... and when it comes to men, it's pretty obviously, the inked and bearded god himself, Ricki Hall. We all love a bad boy at the end of the day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-12lvIdiiu_s/UvKj5bO-JQI/AAAAAAAAD6c/XwKeXzufz-0/s1600/ricki-hall_fy1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-12lvIdiiu_s/UvKj5bO-JQI/AAAAAAAAD6c/XwKeXzufz-0/s1600/ricki-hall_fy1.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;">10. If you had $5,000 (c. €3,700) to spend on any one item, what would it be?</span></h4>
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It'd definitely be the Chanel 2.55 quilted flap bag. Any spare change would go into the Chanel nesting doll bag / key charm. <br /><br /><h4>
<span style="color: #660000;">11. Heels or flats?</span></h4>
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Despite being so short, I say flats all the way! There's nothing more unflattering than seeing a woman tottering about, trying to keep her balance or walking in baby steps on 6" heels. <br /><br /><h4>
<span style="color: #660000;">12. What purse do you currently use?</span></h4>
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I change my purse / bag practically every day, depending on my mood / outfit. Right now it's mostly between a tan tote from Zara, a black satchel with maroon and forest green accents, also from Zara and a burgundy oversized clutch from ASOS.<br /><br /><h4>
<span style="color: #660000;">13. What is your favourite fragrance?</span></h4>
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Prada Candy, D&G No. 6 L'Imperatrice and Guerlain's La Petite Robe Noir are all favourites, especially for daytime. Nigh time then sees me wearing something like Chanel No. 5 ... just like Marilyn.<br /><br /><h4>
<span style="color: #660000;">14. From a fashion perspective, what’s your favourite film?</span></h4>
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It'd be easy to say The Great Gatsby after last year's tumultuous success, but it's not. I much prefer the inspiration I get from Frida, despite it being already about 10 years old as a film. Wes Anderson films also tend to give me much fashion inspiration as well. </div>
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<span style="color: #660000;">15. Is fashion in your blood or your jeans?</span></h4>
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I like to think of it as being in my blood. My mu was a seamstress and my dad's an artist. Fashion is a coming together of an artist's imagination and a seamstress or tailor's technical ability. So yes, I like to believe that I have inherited these skills and turned them into a devotion for all things fashion!</div>
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Now it's your turn to answer these questions! I'm not going to tag anyone specifically so as not to leave anyone else out ... but if you're reading this, you're tagged! Send me your post once you write it - I'd love to find out more xx</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-710679426737953239.post-68904394911383054192014-02-02T08:37:00.000+01:002014-02-02T08:37:28.304+01:00Trend post: Clutch Bags<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7XpDSqsoank/Uu30d74pDtI/AAAAAAAAD5Q/fmyUt6N1Kio/s1600/9a9cabea92e617e09e75be89e346c3b9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7XpDSqsoank/Uu30d74pDtI/AAAAAAAAD5Q/fmyUt6N1Kio/s1600/9a9cabea92e617e09e75be89e346c3b9.jpg" height="444" width="640" /></a></div>
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There are way too many times when my bag doubles up as Mary Poppins' holdall. Whatever you ask me for, the likelihood is that you find it in my bag. But both for reasons of health (I can't possibly keep carrying such weight on my shoulder / elbow on a daily basis) and to satisfy my voracious appetite to be on trend, I want to convert to clutch bags.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_fU4zS2VrkU/Uu30kPHOPWI/AAAAAAAAD5c/zaHF2qbfYVo/s1600/7ef32919f3a00506d3581ce6211282f7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_fU4zS2VrkU/Uu30kPHOPWI/AAAAAAAAD5c/zaHF2qbfYVo/s1600/7ef32919f3a00506d3581ce6211282f7.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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I don't think I'll go as far as opting for the micro clutches where I wouldn't even be able to fit my keys and mobiles (I hate the fact I have 2 but that's life at the moment!). Luckily there are some gorgeous oversized clutch bags which I believe can satisfy my fashion obsession and carry all my daily 'necessities' around, whether I'm heading to the office, market or to my favourite watering hole. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q512CuxuC3Q/Uu30zuBe1dI/AAAAAAAAD5s/hO-lrpDXtZM/s1600/b801f43327c62168bf3747e6d5a243db.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q512CuxuC3Q/Uu30zuBe1dI/AAAAAAAAD5s/hO-lrpDXtZM/s1600/b801f43327c62168bf3747e6d5a243db.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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Clutch bags seem to have, for a time until recently, existed only in the realm of occasion-wear, to be taken out only for a wedding or a smart occasion when, really and truly, one wouldn't need to carry much stuff around with them in any case. But nowadays, wearing a clutch with a pair of converse trainers for the morning errands is very much the thing to do, and I for one, am pretty keen on giving such look a go. Actually, and as is probably evident from these pins and my Pinterest board <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/aka_tikka/fs6-trend-post-clutch-bags/" target="_blank">here</a>, I quite love how such formerly more formal bags are paired with more laid back outfits.<br />
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I feel I'm already on the right track on this: the last two purchases in this department, both courtesy of gift vouchers from people close to my heart, were in fact clutch bags. It's a matter of actually using them now. Maybe I'll give the smaller one from Parfois (similar to <a href="http://www.parfois.com/index.php?pais=mt&id=51&idp=17763" target="_blank">this</a>, but plain) a test run this beautiful Sunday morning ... and try the other, larger one from Asos (which is <a href="http://www.asos.com/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3427736" target="_blank">this</a>) for the office one of these days. Have you ever worn a clutch bag to work? Let me know how practical or otherwise that was in the comments section below xx<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00360686672489394755noreply@blogger.com0