Endymed Facial at Destination Skin

Earlier this week, I had the good fortune of visiting Destination Skin for an Endymed facial sculpture treatment. The treatment is aimed at giving you smoother and firmer skin, and just in time for summer too. After hearing all of this, I made a quick dash in to the Maddox Street clinic.

The aesthetic treatment is quick, painless, super simple, and most importantly non-invasive; it provides an instant visible improvement. This is great as I didn’t have any of the discomfort normally attributed to similar tightening treatments and was ready to leave the clinic directly afterwards without irritation or having to wear my sunglasses on the tube. All in all, a skincare result.

Endymed is available from Destination Skin clinics across the country.

Grenson - Jessie Boot

I recently had a shoe-based epiphany. I discovered Grenson. It’s one of those brands that I just want to share with everyone, as I’m so impressed with the quality, style and customer services.

It all started when I was on the hunt for a well-made pair of brogues for my boyfriend’s Christmas present. I can’t keep secrets (and more so, I hate dealing with Christmas returns), so I took him to the Hanbury Street store to look at styles and try-on. It was at this moment that I saw a very chic Gallic woman trying on a pair of Jessie Chelsea boots. After weeks of calling up the store, I eventually got my hands on a pair.

What’s so great about Grenson? Apart from the informative customer service and beautiful designs, the sheer quality of each item is incredible. Each shoe follows a strict shoemaking process, which ensures its durability, meaning that they can be re-soled on multiple occasions. What’s not to love, eh?

Designers/Makers Market & Andaz Hotel

Just before Christmas I was given the fantastic opportunity to attend a blogger brunch hosted by Designers/Makers and the Andaz Hotel. It was a great way to meet some like-minded bloggers (Made in Shoreditch and Magpie on the Run) and find out more about the talented people that make Designers/Makers.

Every month, Designers/Makers host a colourful market in Old Spitalfield, this enables designers across the UK to showcase and sell their work. Designers/Makers cultivate new talent to help them flourish in the creative sphere. It’s a fantastic concept with a variety of designers on board from jewellers to artists, furniture makers to ceramicists. It’s definitely worth a special trip for anyone that has yet to visit.

The brunch was hosted to celebrate the collaboration with the Andaz Hotel on Liverpool Street, which involved a Christmas theme entitled: Andaz Goes Ape. The hotel was covered in ape-themed decorations throughout the lobby and in Old Spitalfields market itself. It’s the first time that I’d been to the Andaz and it certainly won’t be the last. The hotel and brunch were a real pleasure, and I will certainly be sharing the little secret that is the Eastway restaurant with friends.

All in all, it was a fantastic day and I’d like to thank Hollye (Designers/Makers) and Liam (Andaz Hotel) for their kind invite and good company.

Paul Klee: The EY Exhibition

In the words of Luther Vandross on Paul Klee: Never too much. Ok, perhaps I used a little creative licence there, but you really can never have enough of the Paul Klee retrospective.

It’s been ten years since the last major show and it has been hotly anticipated. Tate Modern has pulled together a fantastically comprehensive exhibition starting from Klee’s entrance on the art scene in 1910 to his death in 1940.

It’s a varied retrospective covering every phase of his work throughout the 17 rooms, yet it manages to feel fresh, innovative and spontaneous.

Personally, I found it a refreshing choice for the Tate Modern and was quite taken aback by the variety and depth of his work. In my opinion, Klee has come to the forefront as one of the most influential painters of the twentieth century.

Booking until 9 March 2014. (tate.org.uk)

Corinne Day Exhibition - May the Circle Remain Unbroken

Corinne Day's photography inspired and excited a generation of creatives. Her images are realist, raw and centred around the youth culture; she created a whole sub-culture which has gained her legions of fans. Day's infamy grew for the Vogue photo shoot in 1993, featuring a young and grunge Kate Moss, depicting the 90s beautifully. The candid images scandalised many and saw Day ostracised from the mainstream fashion media for some time, with Corinne later to return to the fashion and art world.

Sadly, Day died in August 2010 but 'May the Circle Remain Unbroken' brings together unseens works that feature both collaborators and friends. The exhibition at the Gimpel Fils Mayfair Gallery has now finished but there is the beautiful accompanying book to satisfy any Corinne Day fix.

Dover Street Market - Cardboard City

Dover Street Market are hosting a pop-up 'Cardboard Market' offering a clear out of their highly covetable stock, with discounts up to 75% off. The cool London department store is offering archive collections of Comme des Garcons as well as its much-lusted over collections that it has stocked over the past nine years.

Thankfully, for those of you with an office job, stock will be replenished daily, so get down there!

Dover Street Market, Market Market Cardboard City, 21 - 24 November 2014, 10am - 7pm, The Biscuit Factory, V22/F Block Halls, Clements Road, SE 16 4 DG

Donna Tartt Talk - The Goldfinch

After an eleven year hiatus since 'The Little Friend' was released, Donna Tartt is back with the highly critically acclaimed 'The Goldfinch'. This week I attended a Waterstone's talk with Donna Tartt hosted by Kirsty Wark at St James' Church, Piccadilly.

'The Goldfinch', which immediately after release topped the best seller list, features a young boy who is involved in a horrific accident where his mother dies. Entwined in the narrative is Carel Fabritius' (a student of Rembrandt) painting 'The Goldfinch' which gives the novel it's name.

The talk was split in to two sections, an interview with Kirsty Wark and a Q&A session with the audience. It was a great insight in to Tartt's writing methods, her inspiration and more importantly, why she writes a book per decade (a large amount of time spent researching and editing apparently).

Ally Capellino Sample Sale

Ally Capellino

Sample Sale
Men's and Women's Bags and Accessories
Thursday 14 November
11am - 8pm
£2 Entry
St Hilda's East Community Centre, 18 Club Row, E2

Ally Capellino is renowned for designing high-quality and utilitarian leather accessories for both men and women. Thankfully for us, she is having her annual sample sale tomorrow so you can bag a design or two ahead of Christmas. Friends have been in the past and say that it really is worth the wait as a wide selection of designs are usually on offer at great prices.

Malcolm Gladwell Talk - David and Goliath

Last week I was given the opportunity to go to a talk held by Malcolm Gladwell at the Lyceum. The talk was part of his brief UK tour for the promotion of Gladwell's latest book 'David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits and the Art of Battling Giants'.

Gladwell is known for such titles as 'The Tipping Point' and his 'Broken Window Theory' and his latest book covers the dynamics and powers balance between the big and the small. It was a fascinating and thought-provoking talk which covered many interesting case studies from a peaceful women's march that liberated a town in Northern Ireland to the American heiress Alva Vanderbilt and her overbearing ambition for her daughter's marriage.

One recommendation for Gladwell (other than stop quoting Kanye West) would be to give modern day examples of how this theory plays out in politics, current affairs and the culture of today.

A.P.C. Sample Sale

A.P.C. Sample Sale
Saturday 23rd November 2014, 11am - 6pm
Sunday 24th November 2014, 10am - 5pm

Up to 70% off womenswear, menswear, shoes and accessories.

The Old Truman Brewery
London
E1 6QL

A.P.C. have perfected that nonchalant, minimalist look synonymous with Gallic style. The brand continue to bring out easy-to-wear and understated designs for both sexes each and every season. I for one am certainly looking forward to getting my elbows at the ready and picking up some great buys.

Cos Masculine Coat

I've been waiting for this masculine coat to drop in Cos for weeks, so much so that on the weekend I even fought the crowds of weekend shoppers and ventured to Regent Street. Sadly, it hasn't dropped so I'll be keeping an eye out for weeks to come. This is fantastic high-street coat (with cashmere mix) similar to that of the Stella McCartney designed numbers. It also comes in a beautiful deep red, which will separate it from my grey/black/navy winter wear.

Cinque Terre

I recently visited one of my favourite holiday spots, the Cinque Terre in Italy. I'm reluctant to even post about it as I want to keep it a secret, however it seems that the secret is out as it's much busier than ever before. It's situated in the north eastern coast of Italy in Liguria otherwise known as the Italian Riviera and is a UNESCO heritage site. It consists of five small villages full of quiet coves, vineyard on the steep hills and brightly coloured houses on the cliffs. There's nothing to do but hike in the hills, swim in the sea and eat seafood; there's little to no WiFi either which made it all the more appealing. Truly indulgent and relaxing.

Personal Training - Timed Fitness

After being invited to trial a personal training session with Jéan at Timed Fitness, I decided to take him up on the offer last weekend. It's no secret that I'm not a gym lover, I struggle with the monotony and my low concentration span doesn't aid me. I much prefer exercising outdoors and ideally with a friend/sports team, so the session was the perfect antidote. Not only was I guided through a series of exercises but I did it all in the comfort of my local park (despite the odd looks from fellow Hackney residents). Now it's only a matter of time before I beat Miranda Kerr at her own game.

Thanks to the lovely girls at Platform PR for facilitating the session.

Jana Reinhardt - Hummingbird Necklace

My fascination with Jana Reindhardt's jewellery continues. Jana is renowned for her charming, often animal inspired pieces, and she's designed another covetable collection this time featuring hummingbirds. I've been wearing mine solidly for the past week and love how simple and easy-to-wear it is. Roll on the next collection!

Eighteen Rabbit Interview

I recently discovered Eighteen Rabbit, a stylish fair trade retailer based in Hay-on-Wye. It allows us to shop with the peace of mind that all of their suppliers receive a fair wage and are hand-picked from all corners of the globe on the strength of their designs.

It's not just a great way to support these talented local suppliers as a way of social change, but it's also a fantastic place to shop from jewellery to clothing, home furnishing to ceramics.

I spoke with co-founder Louise to find out a little bit more...

Where does the name Eighteen Rabbit come from?

We get asked this a lot! Eighteen Rabbit was a King who ruled the Mayan city of Copan. When we visited Copan on our travels, we learnt that he was also a great patron of the arts and creativity.

Tell us a little about Eighteen Rabbit and your Fair Trade policy?

We're aiming to challenge perceptions of fairly traded products with a range of stylish, contemporary apparel and gifts. All producers are required to complete detailed information about their working conditions, staff well-being and wages. In line with the World Fair Trade Organisation’s principles, producers are often paid up front with an additional premium offered to allow for investment in training or tools.

Which areas of the world do you work with? 

At the moment we have items from Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Argentina, Nepal, Thailand, India, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Vietnam, Kenya and Ethiopia - and the list is growing rapidly!

Do you have a personal relationship with these areas?

In many cases we do. Our beautiful rugs, mirrors and hand-crafted figures were sourced in person on a recent visit to Mexico. We're dealing directly with the producers in Cambodia and Nepal who produce our exclusive range of jewellery made from bullets and bomb casings (above), bags and wallets from recycled sacks, and stunning copper vases. We try to deal as closely as possible with the end producers, but in some cases we work with UK, European or American wholesalers to source a range of products which is unique in the UK.

How do you source your artisans/projects?

We're always researching new possible product lines, and in an ideal world would spend several months a year directly sourcing from around the world (we can dream!). For now, we conduct a lot of online research and it's surprising how many small producer groups have a web presence. We've also had some great producers who have found us via unusual routes: a local couple were living in Argentina and put us in touch with a lovely family company who produce our soft toys, and another past customer is currently in Ethiopia and has sent us samples of some really unusual jewellery which we hope to be selling soon.

You're based in Hay-on-Wye, do you have any projects based in your twin town, Timbuktu?

Links with Timbuktu are quite difficult at present following the recent occupation of Mali by Islamist rebels. However, we are hoping to develop a project with a group there who create wonderful patterns with natural dyes. A Welsh designer is going to help with designs - possibly accessories and homeware - and we'll stock the items here. (You can find out more about Hay's link with Timbuktu here, of which I'm a trustee of in my spare time!).

You've got some really unique and inspiring products in-store, what's your personal favourite?

It changes on a daily basis! I'm loving this simple vase, designed by Piet Hein Eek (Dutch eco-designer) and made in Vietnam. It reminds me of a traditional milk jug but with a modern shape.

What's next for Eighteen Rabbit?

Well, believe it or not, we're looking forward to Christmas! Our winter range includes some gorgeous knitwear designed in Dalston and made in Nepal and some lovely kitchenware made from bamboo. Beyond that, we would love to expand our shop to other sites in the UK... who knows what 2014 might bring!!

If you'd like to be in with a chance of winning the flower earrings made from bomb casings found in Cambodia then check out the T-Shirt and Tails Twitter.

Maria Francesca Pepe Spiked Ring

Despite having a self-imposed shopping ban this summer, I seem to be doing quite well on the buying front. From studded high tops to summer sandals, high-waisted jeans to heels I can barely walk in. However, the highlight for me is something much simpler (and intimidating); a Maria Francesca Pepe gold spiked ring from her S/S13 collection.

I love the toughness of this statement piece and it's also pretty handy should I ever get in to a bar brawl.

Rituals - Laughing Buddha

The Rituals Laughing Buddha launch couldn’t have launched at a better time. It was just before the heatwave and therefore ideal timing for all of my frantic skin preparations. The collection was the perfect companion in needing to get my skin cleaned, exfoliated, moisturised and looking beach ready for my Devon/Cornwall break. Thank you Rituals!

Jana Reinhardt - Wings

 In recent weeks, I’ve seldom been seen without my new much-loved winged friends. Like all Jana Reinhardt’s pieces the studded earrings and chain necklace are easy-to-wear, contemporary and whimsical. The pieces are so clean and minimalist that I can mindlessly put them on in the morning and not worry about whether the go with what I’m wearing. Plus, they fulfil my new obsession for all things silver.

Review - The Modern Pantry Afternoon Tea

 A rainy Saturday afternoon saw me take refuge in The Modern Pantry for afternoon tea. It seemed a good excuse to catch-up and sample an afternoon tea that I’d heard so many people raving about.

This foodie destination served a wonderful afternoon tea with a twist, there were scones flavour with unusual, yet delicious, flavours such as green tea and paprika, dainty finger sandwiches on focaccia with smoked salmon and goats curd, and a variety of classic cakes and desserts from lemon possets to chocolate brownies.

There were two highlights for me, the smoked salmon, avocado and yuzu mayonnaise focaccia finger sandwich, which was the perfect afternoon tea classic with a twist; and the inventive paprika flavoured scone filled with cottage cheese, which had a subtle kick.

The kitchen is extremely capable and managed to combine fresh and delicious ingredients with inventive creations. It’s no surprise that The Modern Pantry has such a large and loyal following since its opening.

The Modern Pantry, 48 St. John's Square, EC1V 4JJ. Tea served Mon-Sat, 3-5pm; from £17. themodernpantry.co.uk.

Review - Honest Burger, Brixton Village

 The stakes are high. I’ve been waiting to visit Honest Burger in Brixton Village for approximately year now. Every time I visit the queues are huge so my hunger takes me elsewhere. This time I pre-planned and went at 6pm on a Saturday evening with my boyfriend and brother in tow (in the belief that they wouldn’t judge me for a slip in eating etiquette standards, after all only a knife is provided).

After pouring over tens of reviews in preparation for the big event, I was sold in to ordering a burger, topped with stilton and chargrilled bacon, and chips. It seemed foolish to go for anything else. The 35-day dry-aged British beef supplied by Ginger Pig, sweet brioche bun and thrice-cooked crisp chips covered in rosemary salt certainly did not disappoint. It was the most delicious, satisfying and moreish meal that I’ve eaten in a long time.

The venue itself is simple and the epitome of New York understated cool. The décor is all exposed brickwork and wood with an open kitchen, which dominates the space. The well-priced and delicious food, welcoming space and friendly service combined makes it a great package, and one that I’m sure will lead to yet more branches across the capital.

Honest Burger has officially pushed Franco Manca off the top spot for the Brixton Village gastronomy crown. I’ll be back for seconds soon.