frivolous favourites

Mrs Jones, Holt, Norfolk.

2012-02-02T19:31:00.001Z

Having moved out into the wildness of East Anglia from a slightly more "cosmopolitan" city, I am used to a little more action! Having had a fundamental role in the making and running of Laundry Room in Norwich and Laundryroom.co.uk, I am only too aware of how taxing clothing boutiques can be. Unfortunately for me, and any other female living out here, who is not a tween and likes to buy decent rag, there aren't (m)any womenswear boutiques in this county. Who am I kidding, Suffolk doesn't have any either!

Acne, Carven, Equipment, Vanessa Bruno, Isabel Marant, J Brand, 3.1 Philip Lim, Repetto, ... These are my favourite boutique brands, and I'm not the only one. Surely someone could make a killing out of stocking these beaut's somewhere in Norfolk?!

Enter Mrs Jones.

Every once in a while, I pay a visit to a sweet little womenswear shop in north Norfolk called Mrs Jones. A friend of mine stumbled across it about 18 months ago and brought an amazing possum fur scarf - sounds odd but it was amazing, so I then spent the next month trying to track one down for myself! After that, Mrs Jones stuck.

Located just off Holt's main high street, the double fronted shop stocks brands such as J Brand, Repetto, Anya Hindmarsh, and Vanessa Bruno. The store itself is perfect. The downstairs is small, with plenty of natural light, minimum decor and pigeon holes piled with every style of J Brand jean you could imagine. Antique bell jars displaying gold charm jewellery, stand on an old store counter, which houses scarves and small leather goods. Upstairs clothing is merchandised in every "neutral" colour possible. Idyllic.

Without a doubt, the most outstanding element to the boutique is Mrs Jones herself. She does sales-assistant-in-a-small-quiet-shop to perfection. Her soft Scottish accent is polite, not pushy. She doesn't hover, and is happy to help as soon as you ask for it. She makes you feel completely relaxed whether you are just browsing or Barclay card are paying. Plus her petite frame, charcoal bob and make up free complexion suits the brands so well you'd think she was a muse. Mrs Jones is by far my favourite womenswear boutique I have found in Norfolk, and I aim to be a loyal customer for years to come.

J Brand and Equipment SS12 has recently arrived in store so I'm sure it wont be long until my next visit.

P.S. Shopping list:
J Brand leopard print 811 jeans (tick)
Repetto suede ballet shoe (tick)
Anya Hindmarsh receipt purse (tick)
Vanessa Bruno oversized winter coat (tick)
Equipment signature blouse (TBC)

Mulberry Oversized Tillie Haircalf Bengal Tiger

2012-01-29T14:57:00.000Z

Initially spotted in the arms of Olivia Palermo on the front row at the spring summer 2011 show. I longed for this beast for months; googling it on a weekly basis, researching into other haircalf bags, evaluating the amount of pennies per wear, googling it some more, trying to justify the 2K price tag, until I finally cracked - won the lottery - suffered a moment of pure indulgent insanity and brought it!!!

The oversized tillie in haircalf is a masterclass in Mulberry quooky luxury. Instead of your "average" leopard print haircalf, the bengal tiger seems a little more exotic - mysterious - exclusive. (Why tiger? One of the SS11 Mulberry collection concepts was based upon 'the secret garden'. If you remember, at the beginning of the story, Mary Lennox is a child born in India). The Bengal tiger effect is created using 7 different stencils after the hyde is tanned and treated. The haircalf has worn well. Obviously this isn't an everyday bag (but maybe every other!) Mulberry advises that the hair will start to bald in areas which experience the most wear and friction but mine still has a full skin! Some people are put off by haircalf hydes due to the thought of their predecessors, but these are byproducts of the meat industry, plus once you feel just how soft these bags are, it's hard to consider anything else but buying one!

The inside of the bag is lined in kid suede which reflects the luxurious outer side perfectly.

This treasure was and would have remained on my fantasy wish list forever. I cant believe i have one and without a doubt it is my most treasured possession.

The Mulberry love affair continues...

Mulberry crush rating: This is a half melted slush puppy dripping with condensation and spiked with some fizz for extra luxe!

Deep and meaningful crush on Mulberry (unpublished from 30-1-11)

2012-01-19T13:59:00.000Z

2010 has been a very good year for treasured native brand, Mulberry. From modest beginnings as a belt maker in Somerset in 1971, Mulberry was awarded this years Designer Brand award by the British Fashion Council, 'which recognises a leading British designer who has excelled and made an impact on the international stage over the past year'.

And have they made an impact?! With the launch of the now cult classic 'Alexa' bag in s/s2010, Mulberry burst back onto everyones radars with a playful collection of womenswear, soft accessories, luggage, leather-masterclass-bags and matching dog attire! Creative Director, Emma Hill, you are my hero!

Mulberry's design ethos of embodying the 'cool of the city and the craft of the countryside' has never been so sort after. With a captive audience worldwide, the machine of a website, Mulberry.com distributes Mulberry sparkle to the masses, from its humble site in idyllic Somerset.

Having brought my first Mulberry in October 2010 (the Leah Shoulder Bag), I am now have my eye firmly fixed upon the Edie in powder beige heavy grain, the Ava messenger in watermelon silky calf and the Mila Slim Zip Wallet in chestnut soft matte from the SS11.

Well Done Mulberry! Here's to a long lasting love affair with a British legend!

Marc Jacobs Advertising 1998-2009 Juergen Teller

2012-01-18T08:30:00.000Z

Having browsed this book in Colette, Paris, hot off the press in May 2009, I kick myself constantly for not buying it there and then. Originally priced at just 80.00 euros, the damage for this whopper is now pushing £300.00.

"Read it and weep".

Organisation courtesy of Anya Hindmarsh

2012-01-11T13:26:00.000Z

This year I have decided that my life AKA the contents of my handbag should be more organised - more chic - more lady-like. (I have also decided that this is a good excuse for a guilt free purchase of a couple of Anya Hindmarsh beauties I've been eyeing up).

Initially it was the Loose Pocket Purses that drew my attention. Just think, having a pretty little pouch to tidy up all the "residue" that lies in the bottom of ones handbag. Receipts, Coffee Change, Parking Change (and tickets), all neatly stored away in the appropriate purse. Bliss.

My attention then turned to the "Labelled Collection". Organsation at it's chicest! An accessory for all elements of your life! You paint your nails, there's a bag for that; you wear contact lenses, there's a bag for that; you wear make-up, there's a bag for that; you travel by plane, there's a bag for that; you listen to music, there's a bag for that; you have a camera, there's a bag for that; you write things down, there's a bag for that; you have a laptop, there's a bag for that; you have a baby, there's even a bag for that!

Proenza Schouler SS11 shot by Tommy Ton

2012-01-11T12:47:00.000Z

Amaze-Balls.

Aga Chic!

2012-01-11T12:36:00.002Z

If you have an Aga, then you're probably a fan of these classic cast iron beasts! And you'll appreciate this pic!

Courtesy of Fashiontoast.com >>

Hannah Martin Gold Eagle Ring

2010-05-07T15:58:00.004+01:00

The price is £1378.00. Ouch! But is so worth every penny. Who wouldn't want an eagle dusting their knuckles?! In 18 carrot golden syrup yellow gold, this beauty would withstand any flitting fad! A seamlessly cool classic.

Chanel Particulière V. Rouge Noir

2010-04-16T13:44:00.002+01:00

Every so often, Chanel will release an uber cool nail varnish that sets off this serge of eager customers to the Chanel concessions in trusted stores such as John Lewis and good old Debenhams. I have been one of many unlucky customers who have got there far too late and missed out of the latest obsession... Chanel Particuliere. However! I have decided to save myself the heart ache and disappointment and stick to the original in 'it' nail polishes... Chanel Rouge Noir. Forever, has this beauty treasure, been my saviour. If no other polish will satisfy, Rouge Noir will!

Obsessed

2010-04-07T21:14:00.004+01:00

Right now, I am actually totally and utterly obsessed with these two things. The Celine shoulder bag and any grey ribbed socks. One slightly more obtainable than the other!

Camel

2010-03-25T11:04:00.005Z

You just can't beat a good camel coat.Images courtesy of thesartorialist.blogspot.com, Splash and Chloe.

A Single Man

2010-03-25T09:49:00.009Z

I went to see A Single Man a couple of weeks ago. Within the first 15 minutes, I knew this was a film I'd want to own. Without a doubt, the cinematography was beautiful. Having heard rumours that Tom Ford had taken inspiration from Mad Men I was quite excited, and as always, he didn't disappoint. I was a little sceptical about whether a fashion designer could pull off film directing, but evidently, some people are good at everything. And in Tom Ford's case; Brilliant.

For me, my favourites were as follows. That Jumper: worn by, a surprisingly adult, Nicholas Hoult. I love a man who's not afraid to wear proper-baby-just-been-born-angelic-pink, especially mohair. Wow! The glasses: Not just the black framed ones worn by George Falconer (Firth) but the gold tipped ones used to drink gin from at Charlies house. Charlie's cigarettes: Sobranie Cocktail. Georges Glass House: The John Lautner designed house filled with exquisite 60's design treasures. The tenderness in Georges eyes. The sad fragility of Charlie. And last but not least, the beautiful deep blue shade of Kenny's eyes. Shallow but true.

Mini

2010-02-19T11:16:00.004Z

Courtesy of thecobrasnake.com. Possibly the youngest photographer at the Wang show.

RIP McQueen

2010-02-12T17:01:00.002Z

When I was 15, whilst studying for my Art Textiles GCSE, Alexander McQueen was the first fashion designer I ever took an interest in. I would sit at the Art Department's one computer, pain stakingly clicking through lookbook photo after lookbook photo, on the snail-trail dial up internet connection! I was obsessed by McQueen, and decided there and then I would study fashon design at Central St. Martins, graduate with a first class degree and become the next Alexander McQueen. I have done one of these things! Little did I know, back then, that no one could ever be the 'next' Alexander McQueen. And no one ever will. His death is a great sadness. I can't find the words of what else to say, so I'll leave it to my favourite blogger and her clever words. 'McQueen was a visionary of epic proportions.'

http://www.razorblonde.com/blog/

V day treats!

2010-02-10T18:16:00.007Z

With Valentines day fast approaching on the horizon, I have my beady little eyes on these! The Zoe and Morgan Snake Ring - deeeelish! and the Dominic Jones Stud Earrings - Vamp!If I'm feeling very lucky, I might wish for this Jordan Askill heart shaped ring with a jolly little beard on sapphires!

When I grow up I want to be a Chloe girl...

2010-02-09T21:15:00.011Z

Chloe is pretty great. To me, it's pretty spot on in fact. Over the years, they; who navigate the humongous monster brand, continue to confirm my glorifying thoughts, with evidence of true strokes of genius. Chloe doesn't appear to have sold out on it's soul yet. (Although if they make anymore enamel key rings or padlock accessories they might!) To me, and many I'm sure, Chloe still manages to be undoubtedly cool. And I think that might have something to do with the clever casting these girls.Clemence Poesy is the Chloe girl with a fabulous name and is intimidatingly French chic. Chloe Sevigny is the Chloe girl who is effortlessly cool with Californian sun kissed hair and skate boards in her thirties. Anja Rubik is the Chloe girl with that hair, that skin, that face and that body. If I could choose, I wouldn't. I'd be all three!

Yes Please!

2010-02-05T15:31:00.000Z

Nine... Guido Contini

2010-01-19T10:51:00.009Z

Me and the 'boyf' went to see Nine the other day. Without a doubt, it has a great line up of fabulous female actors: Penelope Cruz, Nicole Kidman, Judi Dench, Sophia Loren, Kate Hudson, Fergie, and my favourite Marion Cotillard. Surely one of them would tick your "like her" box. But for me, Daniel Day Lewis was the reason I enjoyed the film. After really disliking his vileness characters in 'There Will Be Blood' and 'Gangs Of New York' (so much so, I could spit, pa!); I was very pleasantly surprised by his personification of Guido Contini. I walked out the cinema seeing greasy, floppy haired Italian men smoking Marlboro Reds in a completely different light (well, almost). Honestly I have a little style crush.
Wearing sunglasses day and night; smoking constantly but unknowingly; inconspicuous head down and hunched shoulders; a light weight mac with a scarf tucked under the lapels; hands in pockets; a well cut suit on a tall slim frame; dark brown suede slim shoes; and then there's the car: an Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider. Perfecto!

Snow shoe solution

2010-01-19T09:31:00.006Z

So when we had our snowy spell over the last week or so, I was in a bit of a pickle. (What to wear on my paddles...) With an inch of snow on the ground I was quite happy in my trusty Converse. Then it snowed more. So I donned my Acne winter boots, but with a leather sole, a short work to the local shop became a lethal expedition. (I imagined I looked like Bambi on ice, but I was actually a much havier, un fawn-like version, that landed with a post-christmas-feasting-thrud!) After much deliberation, I resorted to the Hunters. The Hunters that are lilac and only come out for gardening and festivals. I was quickly at ease in the eye catching rubber boots as my feet were warm and dry and practicality had set in; but only while the 'hefty' 3-4 inches of snow had settled. Once it began to thaw, I just looked like a very enthusiastic grown-up. Then I found these...

Ooooo! Perfect! A flannel high-top! They look warm, possibly not that water-proof, but they're bound to be comfy and who could resist those ribbon laces? They're pretty, uber cool, and on sale at matchesfashion.com. Tah-daaah!

Acne Furniture

2010-01-15T11:20:00.000Z

Another reason the adore Acne. Acne Furniture! Word on the street is that an Autumn/Winter 2010/2011 collection will be launching in Paris late next week. I tried to imagine what wonders the furniture would look like... Indigo denim upholstered armchairs with rivets galore? As if! Jonny Johansson has more taste that that! I've trawled the world-wide-web and found these tasty appetisers of what's in store... [note to self: start saving].

Images courtesy of rafrafgirl.blogspot.com

Here we go...

2010-01-12T16:31:00.000Z

Lately I've been anxious to get back on the fashion pack pony. Having had an interest in fashion and all things design based since I was 14 years old, my devotion to the cause over the past year has started to wain. With a guilty feeling in the pit of my stomach I am starting this blog as a platform to showcase my frivolously favourite "things".

friv-o-lous [friv-uh-luhs]
1) Characterised by lack of seriousness or sense: frivolous conduct. 2) Self indulgently carefree; unconcerned about or lacking any serious purpose. 3) Of little or no weight, worth or importance; not worthy of serous notice: a frivolous suggestion.