Monday 30 November 2015

New York - Eating Out

Following on from yesterdays post about my recent trip to New York, I thought I would share with you some of the restaurants I dined at, as well as some of the delightful cafe's I called in for a quick coffee...
Her Name Is Han
Located on at 17 East 31st between 5th and Madison, I came across this Korean restaurant by complete chance. A stroll down the block and I encountered several people waiting outside this restaurant, so thinking this must be the place to eat I checked it out. Unless you book in advance, expect around a 45 minute wait for a table. Thankfully the weather was mild for November, so a wait outside was not too bad. Once seated, there was plenty to choose from on the extensive menu. A mix of both small plates and large plates, I opted for the Pork Dumplings($7) and Sautéed Pork($16) - rice comes complimentary. Both dishes were equally delicious and service was super fast, I can't have waited any more than 10 minutes for my food to arrive. I also tried the signature 'Thank You Berry Much' cocktail. All in all, a very enjoyable dining experience and it is also worth mentioning that the waiters were incredibly efficient.
Khe-Yo
Down in TriBeCa at 157 Duane Street, Khe-Yo is a Southeast Asian restaurant. The cool industrial style décor was the perfect backdrop for what turned out to be one of the best meals I think I have ever had. I opted for the Coconut Curry Red Snapper with Scallops taken from the specials menu. All I can say is WOW! I also had incredible sticky rice with signature Bang-Bang sauce. This was a seriously good dining experience, made even better with the  accompaniment of the strongest Whisky cocktail I have ever had. If you love Asian cuisine, then I can't recommend this place more highly.
Levain Bakery, Cafe Grumpy, Besfren
Levain Bakery - When Taylor Swift says the best place in New York for cookies is the Levain Bakery on West 74th Street, naturally you make a special trip to the Upper West Side at 10.30am on a Sunday to see if she is correct. Turns out Taylor is correct! After a 30 minutes wait in a line down the block I finally got into the bakery. This super small bakery has become something a hit with locals looking for their fix a delicious baked goods. After my wait I couldn't just purchase 1 cookie, so I went for 3 instead...developing the attitude 'Why not I'm in New York!' Opting for the Chocolate Chip Walnut, Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip and a Raspberry Bomboloncini. I strolled over to Central Park with my bag of baked goods (which smelt like heaven!) and tucked into my first cookie. Could a Sunday morning be anymore perfect?
Café Grumpy - Taking a quick coffee break in-between my work meetings, I relaxed in Café Grumpy at 200West 39th Street (between 7th and 8th Ave). With 4 locations in Manhattan and 2 in Brooklyn, this is a coffee shop for coffee connoisseurs. I went for the 'Las Flores' blend from Honduras - an ideal midday pick me up. I also have to mention the awesome logo!
BESFREN - Located at 315 5th Ave, Besfren creates hand-crafted Gluten-free pastries...which all look too good to eat! You can't go to New York and not indulge in cheesecake, so that is exactly what I did with a iced latte as well.
The Breslin
This gastropub is located inside the ACE Hotel at 16West 29th Street. The ACE is a luxury boutique 4* hotel(check out pics on their website of the interior...seriously stylish) and the Breslin is the equally stylish restaurant and bar. I chose the 'Milk Braised Berkshire Shoulder'  which was served with milk curds and Swiss chard. My cocktail of choice was a Brooklyn Bramble...any excuse for a splash of Gin. I love this style of gastro dining so I felt right at home at the Breslin.

I hope this post has given you some food for thought (no pun intended), if you are heading to NYC and are on the lookout for some memorable dining experiences - all of the above wiLL cut the mustard(...again no pun intended)

Phillippa x

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Sunday 29 November 2015

New York - Highlights

Last week I was over in New York on a business trip with work. The last time I was in NYC was back in 2012 when I lived there for 3 months whilst doing a post-grad internship, so it was a fantastic opportunity to be back in my favourite city. I adore New York and wanted to make the most of every moment I had there, visiting lots of my favourite places I discovered back when I lived there. I thought I would share with you some of my favourite pictures from the trip...
The bright lights of Times Square
Sunset in Queens - taken from Queens Blvd
Flatiron Building at Early Sunset/5th Ave
The San Remo from Central Park
A selection from Manhattan: Wollman Rink in Central Park, Bow Bridge in Central Park, Macy's, Herald Square from the rooftop of the Hotel Metro, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center

Tomorrow I will be posting my recommendations for eating out: Restaurants and Cafe's

Phillippa x

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Saturday 28 November 2015

A/W15 Trend - Jewel Tones

Jewel tones are perfect for AW, and a classic satin number will see you right through the season and last for a number of years. This timeless style will never age so investing in quality pieces is well worth it. For A/W15 we saw a number of beautiful, rich, pink and purple tones with a few highlights of olive and teal. Look no further than Julien Macdonald for evening dresses, or Milly for cool laid-back party pieces. Matthew Williamson's A/W15 collection was my favourite, mixing jewel-like satin pieces with decadent fur and suede boots. Perfection!
1. Issa £495 / 2.Topshop £55 / 3. Alexander Wang £985
4. Matthew Williamson £425 / 5. Bottega Veneta £1070 / 6. Antonio Berardi £655
7. Roland Mouret £889 / 8. Sophia Webster £420 / 9. Manolo Blahnik 
10. Rosetta Getty £705 / 11. French Connection £55

Phillippa x

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Wednesday 25 November 2015

JewelleryBox Pop Up - Brick Lane

One of my favourite jewellery brands, JewelleryBox.co.uk have launched a Pop-Up store at 64 Brick Lane in Shoreditch. Open from now until December 27th, this festive pop-up store is your one stop shop for all your jewellery Christmas present buying needs. I attended the bloggers event on Tuesday evening and was treated to Prosecco and nibbles…as well as getting the chance to talk to the fantastic JewelleryBox team about their brand. If you love jewellery and have not yet been on the JewelleryBox website, then you are definitely missing out. The price point for all the jewellery is so accessible, with some pieces costing as little as £3. Many of the rose gold and sterling silver pieces are very understated, the kind of jewellery that you can wear everyday for any occasion. Everything comes packaged in brown boxes, making an ideal gift for a friend…or yourself. JewelleryBox are also having a BlackFriday £1 sale on Friday 27th November, which you do no want to miss! Head over to the website to see the full product range or follow JewelleryBox on twitter @jewelleryboxuk - Happy Shopping!

Phillippa x

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Tuesday 24 November 2015

British Fashion Awards 2015 - Red Carpet and Winners

Last night the 2015 British Fashion Awards took place in London. Here you will find a list of the big winners and the best pick of the red carpet fashion…
Outstanding Achievement Award - Karl Lagerfeld
Womenswear Design - J.W.Anderson
Menswear Designer - J.W.Anderson
International Designer - Alessandro Michele for Gucci
Brand - Stella McCartney
Establishment Designer - Erdem
New Establishment Designer - Mary Katrantzou
Accessory Designer - Charlotte Olympia
Creative Campaign - Burberry
Red Carpet - Tom Ford
Model - Jourdan Dunn
And the best of the red carpet looks…
Poppy Delevingne - Emilia Wickstead SS16 / Rosie Huntington-Whiteley - Burberry
Kate Bosworth - Erdem SS16 / Alexa Chung - Erdem SS16
Cheryl Fernendez-Versini - Bespoke Topshop / FKA Twigs - Calvin Klein Collection SS16
Georgia May Jagger - Gucci / Rita Ora - Chanel Pre-Fall 14
Lady Gaga - Tom Ford / Salma Hayek - Gucci
Daisy Lowe - Giles AW15 / Erin O'Connor - Giles AW15
Arizona Muse - Ralph & Russo Fall 15 Couture / Susie Lau - J.W.Anderson SS16
Karlie Kloss - Chanel Pre-Fall 12 / Elisa Sednaoui - Mary Katrantzou SS16

My Best Dressed - Rosie Huntington-Whiteley looked simply divine wearing Burberry and Kate Bosworth looked stunning wearing a textured Erdem gown, the soft blue colour palette really complimented her complexion.

Phillippa x

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Monday 23 November 2015

American Music Awards 2015 - Red Carpet

Last night the 2015 American Music Awards took place in LA, here is a review of who wore what on the red carpet and who I thought was the best dressed attendee at this event…
1. Zendaya Coleman - Emanuel Ungaro SS16 / 2. Selena Gomez - Givenchy SS14
3. Julianne Hough - Naeem Khan SS16 / 4. Nina Dobrev - Zuhair Murad Resort 16
5. J.Lo - Michael Cino SS16 / 6. Celine Dion - Elie Saab Fall15 Couture / 7. Ciara - Reem Acra
8. Gigi Hadid - Bao Tranchi / 9. Kylie Jenner - Bryan Hearns
10. Demi Lovato - Lorena Sarbu Fall15 / 11. Hailee Steinfeld - Zuhair Murad SS16
12. Gwen Stefani - Yousef Al-Jasmi SS16 / 13. Kendall Jenner - Oriett Domenech SS16
14. Ariana Grande - Giambattista Valli  / 15. Ellie Goulding - Alexandre Vauthier  AW15 Couture 

Best Dressed - Selena Gomez wearing Givenchy - I adore Selena's red carpet style, she gets it spot on time and time again. This sequined Givenchy number was perfect for a glitzy event, the revealing back detail gave the overall look a sultry appeal without being OTT.
Showstopper - Jennifer Lopez wearing Michael Cino - as host of the event, J.Lo had no less than 10 outfit changes. Of course she opted for several risqué dresses but this Michael Cino gown was a cut about the rest oozing class and sophistication.

Who was your best dressed?

Phillippa x

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Saturday 21 November 2015

Luxury Nightwear Brand - Asceno

I can't quite remember how or where I discovered Asceno…but i'm very glad that I did. Established 5 years ago by Poppy Sexton-Wainwright and Lauren Skerritt, Asceno takes inspiration from world travel, with a cool laid back feel and sophisticated silhouettes. With a strong emphasis on quality, the beautiful silk pyjamas, loungewear and swim separates are a dream come true for anyone with a penchant for luxury. The digital prints add a vibrancy to the collection, whilst still remaining elegant. Available to shop in Liberty, Holt Renfrew and Le Bon Marche, it is time to book a holiday and escape the rat race somewhere exotic wearing this collection!
Phillippa x

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Wednesday 18 November 2015

Scarf Collection - Favourites

I have been collecting scarves for the past 8 years. What started as buying scarves from second hand shops to use as colour and print inspiration whilst at College and University, developed into a full on scarf obsession! I began taking note of labels and brands, picking up a number of vintage scarves from notable brands, even finding a couple of old Liberty ones. Silk scarves can be expensive, so finding a good quality second hand one with a beautiful hand rolled hem is a real bargain. The best part? - many of the scarves were purchased for as little as 50p, rarely spending more than £3 or £4.  Later I couldn't resist the urge to make a few more luxury purchases, treating myself here and there to the occasional designer scarf...no excuse necessary!
When it comes to personal style, I opt to wear mostly black and navy, which is why I love to add a splash of colour with a printed scarf. Worn in several ways, including being tied around a handbag, a printed scarf adds personality to your outfit without being overpowering or difficult to pull off.  With over 100 in my collection, here are a few of my personal favourites…including: Matthew Williamson, Emilio Pucci and Liberty.

Phillippa x

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Monday 16 November 2015

New November Playlist

It has been a few months since I posted a playlist on my blog, so here are some of the tracks which I am currently loving…some old, some brand new releases and some from the summer which I still keep listening to!
Adventure Of A Lifetime by Coldplay
Believe by Mumford and Sons
The Love Within by Bloc Party
I Need A Connection by Jane Weaver
One Thing by Dave Gahan & Soulsavers
The Ship Song by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
Good For You by Selena Gomez


Phillippa x

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Friday 13 November 2015

Winter Accessories Edit

With the cold weather officially here to stay for the next couple of months, it is time to wrap up all cosy  in your favourite winter accessories. If you are on the lookout for some new knitted, cashmere and shearling accessories then you should like this edit. I have selected some of my favourite winter hats, scarves and gloves currently available from various different designer brands, department stores and high street retailers. Mix up your use of colour and texture, wear traditional checks for a classic look, play with folk embroideries for an boho feel and add some fun prints to brighten up a cold Winter day. Which is your favourite accessory from my edit?
1. Charlotte Simone £155 / 2. Markus Lupfer £190 / 3. Missoni £155 / 4. Burberry £395
5. Temperley £695 / 6. Canada Goose £50 / 7. New Look £7.99 / 8. Eugenia Kim £155
9. Agnelle £90 / 10. Barbour £44.99 / 11. Burberry £495 / 12. Paul Smith £50
13. Anya Hindmarch £325 / 14. Topshop £14 / 15. Harrods of London £125 / 16. Isabel Marant £150

Phillippa x

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Wednesday 11 November 2015

SS16 Trend Report - Part 2

Last month I posted part one of my SS16 Trend Report - here is part two featuring more  key trends for the season ahead...
English Romantic Floral
Without a doubt this was the number one print trend we saw on the SS16 runway. Working in a design studio, this is the top print trend all retailers have been buying into. These delicate floral prints are so feminine and commercial and offer a new style of English Romanticism. Chintz and vintage florals come in soft colour palettes with nods to nostalgia. These prints work best on long flowing dresses in lightweight fabric. A Victorian feel is evoked with the ruffles and high-cut necklines. Key designers: Saint Laurent and Alexander McQueen
Patchwork
Patchwork is given an update for SS16 with a variety of different prints being used in conjunction with each other to create an eclectic look. Graphic florals and checks are patched and spliced together in various ways to create a juxtaposition. This bold print trend has an abundance of energy, lending itself to a sporty shapes. There is also a nomadic feel to the trend, as seen at Tommy Hilfiger and Coach. Primary colours are key to nailing this trend.
Maximalism Sequin
Seen across the board in all 4 cities, daywear and eveningwear was given a 1980's revamp. Silhouettes were reminiscent of  power-dressing in high shine metallic fabrics with plenty of volume seen in the boxy shapes. Whether it is dresses, jackets or trousers, this trend has all bases covered. Layering head-to-toe metallics was also a key look: sequins, paillettes and lurex in standard colours with injections of electrifying red and blue. This is the most glamorous look for SS16 with short and sexy disco vibes. Key Designers: Mary Katrantzou, Lanvin, Rodarte, Preen and Prada.

Phillippa x

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Monday 9 November 2015

A/W 15 Trend: Fur

Fur, whether it be real or faux, is nothing new for A/W. However this season fur get an overhaul and comes in a bright array colours. Swap black for red, and white for teal, or mix it up even more and opt for a patchwork of contrasting colours. Fur is a bold look to pull off regardless of colour, it is daring and always makes a strong sartorial statement. Smooth fur or textured shearling, the A/W 15 catwalks were awash with more coloured fur than we have previously seen. Take notes from the likes of Versace and Saint Laurent and rock a statement fur coat or take the lead from House of Holland and Roksanda and go for an oversized fur vest.
I have shopped around to find some of the best fur garments and accessories currently available.
1. Vivetta $875 / 2. Giamba $1745 / 3. Topshop £65
4. Shrimps £495 / 5. House of Holland £1500 / 6. Topshop £89
7. Charlotte Simone £350 / 8. Shrimps £695 / 9. Charlie XCX for BooHoo £15

Phillippa x

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Saturday 7 November 2015

Children In Need Official Products

Children In Need 2015 takes place on Friday 13th November. With schools and work places getting involved with fundraising in various different ways, one thing which which everyone can do is check out the range on official merchandise that is available.
Giles Deacon X Pudsey
This year Brit designer Giles Deacon has designed a Pusdey t-shirt in a choice of black or gold. Priced at £14, at least £7 from the sale of each t-shirt benefits Children In Need. These great promo pictures were taken by world renowned photographer Sølve Sundsbø and are modelled by the likes of Hollywood actor Stanley Tucci, Daisy Lowe, Abbey Clancy and Michelle Keegan.
Pandora x Pudsey
This cute Pudsey charm priced at £40 will make the perfect addition to your Pandora collection. Adding a touch of fun and personality to your jewellery collection, this polished silver charm is limited edition and 20% of sales go to Children In Need.
Phillippa x

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Thursday 5 November 2015

*Collaboration* Balmain X H&M

Following a long list of designers to collaborate with retail giant H&M,  Balmain has pulled out all the stops to make their collaboration the best one yet! Favoured by the likes of: Kim Kardashian, Kate Hudson and Jada Pinkett Smith, Balmain has some serious star pulling power making the brand the perfect collaborator for H&M. Balmain favourites: Kendall Jenner, Jourdan Dunn and Gigi Hadid, star in the ad campaign set on a New York subway. There is no denying that this collection is aimed at Insta loving fashionista's, allowing everyone to join the #BalmainArmy along the way.  
Olivier Rousteing has drawn inspiration from past Balmain collections to create this new collection. Many of the pieces are almost dead ringers for the runway looks from which they have been inspired.    If you are expecting to purchase these pieces at regular H&M prices, then you may need to think again. Some pieces are priced at an affordable $34.99 - $99, but standout embellished pieces in the collection go upto $649. Nevertheless expect queues around the block…and no doubt sky-high prices on Ebay.
Here are my favourite pieces from the collection…which is available from today online and in store. You will need to be quick, it is expected to sell out in record speed!
Phillippa x

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Wednesday 4 November 2015

Harper's Bazaar Women of The Year Awards - Red Carpet

Last night the 2015 Harper's Bazaar 'Women of The Year' awards took place in London at Claridge's. Here's a little look at who wore what on the red carpet…
Karen Elson - Chloe AW15 / Clemence Poesy - Chloe SS16
Natalie Massenet - Erdem AW15 / Sienna Miller - Valentino Resort 16
Michelle Dockery - Ralph & Russo Couture Fall15 / Ellie Goulding - Stella McCartney
Lily James - Erdem SS16 / Nicole Kidman - Proenza Schouler SS16
Countess of Wessex - Mary Katrantzou PreFall15 / Lara Stone - Givenchy SS16
Erin O'Connor - Roksanda SS16 / Kate Winslet - Roland Mouret
My best dressed has to be Sienna Miller. Sienna has had some incredible red carpet looks this year, and continues to wow in this icy Valentino gown with bird print. Beautiful!

Phillippa x

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Monday 2 November 2015

One To Watch - Molly Goddard

Central Saint Martins alumni, Molly Goddard, previously teamed up with ASOS back in 2013. Then in February this year made her LFW debut with a collection that got the industry talking. For SS16, as seen below, Goddard anchored the collection with her signature aesthetic - plenty of flounce and metres of tulle. Sheer party dresses in punk silhouettes highlight the craftsmanship that drives the brand, with more wearable shapes adding a commercial aspect to the collection. Make no mistake, Molly Goddard is fast emerging as one of the biggest rising stars of British fashion, so be sure to keep this designer on your radar.

Phillippa x

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