The Stoptober Challenge: The Round Up

Posted on October 31, 2014 by Frostie

So it is over. No more Stoptober. I am pretty pleased with myself. I think it went quite well. I haven’t been smoking and hope this will continue. It is still hard sometimes but I have come a long way. I wobbled many times. I don’t want the hard work to be for nothing

Along the way I have done a lot of challenges. The first one was preparing for success and Boots UK pharmacist Angela Chambers gave some great tips. I wrote about this in my first post.

The second challenge was taste. Smoking dulls your taste buds so when you quit everything tastes better. For this challenge I baked. It was fun. Boots UK sent an exclusive recipe box packed with a bespoke recipe and all the ingredients I needed. I loved the end result and the taste was amazing.

I took part in a Twitter party which was hosted by Beautyandthedirt, Sexinlondoncity and Angela Chalmers who is a Boots Expert. This was between 1-2pm on October 16th. The Twitter Party was a lot of fun and I learned a lot. A lot of people got involved and I think it was a success.

Next up I took some time to stop and smell the roses.

To celebrate reaching my third smoke free week, and the return of my sense of smell, Boots UK sent me these gorgeous flowers. Smoking alters the way you smell things. The reasons to stop smoking keep building up. The flowers are also very beautiful. If you are also trying to stop smoking head to Boots UK Stop Smoking.

Challenge Four was all about how quitting smoking is great for your appearance. Smoking can impact your appearance, affecting your complexion, reducing the nutrients in your hair and leading to staining of the teeth, though luckily giving up smoking can reverse these changes. To celebrate this Boots UK partnered with leading fashion photographer Claire Pepper to develop some top tips on taking the perfect selfie.

Fashion photographer Claire Pepper shares tips on how to take the perfect selfie

It’s all about the lighting!

Get the lighting right, and you are 90% of the way to achieving your perfect selfie. Ideally you want natural daylight, but if it is really sunny then move away from direct sun into a shady area. If you are inside, find a window or the biggest, softest light source around and stand nice and close to it. Always have the light source in front of you – side lighting is unflattering and back lighting doesn’t capture very well on most mobile phones.

Attention to detail

Selfies should be spontaneous but try to take a few moments to check the background is free from clutter or strange reflections. Also check your hair and make-up, and take a moment to consider the composition of your shot, and whether it would work best in landscape or portrait.

Trial and Error

You might want to experiment to see if there is much difference in quality between the front and back cameras on your phone. Some phones have a much better quality camera on the back so take two snaps and compare them to see if one looks grainier. Also try taking the cover off your phone – some covers can cause a bit of softening around the periphery of the image or can affect focus so give it a go and you might be surprised what a difference it makes.

Find your angle

Different angles suit different faces so learn what works for you – take lots of pictures to see what works – you can always delete any you don’t like! Generally keeping your chin down is quite flattering and turning your face to one side works for most people. Don’t forget to keep your eyes on the camera lens not the screen as it’s much more engaging.

Post production

Finally, perfect your portrait with an image editing app. A specialist app like Camera+ gives you control over every aspect of the image, as well as giving you the option to add borders and captions. If you are bored of using the same filters all the time try the VSCO Cam app that gives you a really wide selection and the ability to customise your selfie – you can achieve results that would take some time in Photoshop within seconds. If you want to zap a blemish try an app like Facetune, but take it easy editing your face – it’s easy to go too far and it can look quite obvious.

Overall I feel great and stopping smoking was the best thing I have ever done. Try it and you won’t look back. Promise.

Sponsored Post

#bootsukstoptober

Styling Tips

Posted on October 24, 2014 by Sarah Bacchus

I’m constantly telling my clients what to wear, how to style thing up. How to create loads of amazing outfits, but what I rarely say is what not to wear. So here goes…this is my list of 10 things to avoid.

Those of you that love any of these items I do not mean to harm your confidence and just so you know none of the following examples of clothing where harmed in any way while writing this and getting it out of my system. For one factor…I don’t own any of them as the images have been borrowed via *Google!!

1. The dreaded scrunchie and yes I know I should like Carrie in that episode of Sex and The City with Burger her writer lover how quite frankly irritated me from the start. Scrunchies should be burnt. Simple as that..you don’t look good in them even if your in the bath.

2. Crocs, those things are the least sexy, unflattering item of footwear to ever be created. They hold no style and not a ounce of street credibility. Large, flappy and down right nasty. You could get me on the Birkenstock’s but I wouldn’t want to offend many of you fellow fashion bloggers that have fallen into this bewildering trap!! The only crocs you should own are stunning ones!! Not necessarily these below but you get my drift!

3. Quilted coats, you know the ones that look like you have just wrapped yourself in a black seamed doublet duvet. Who needs to add about 6 inches to their frame and most are made from the most horrendous unbreathable fabric. I rest my case…

4. Any form of skirt, or shorts that end at the thickest part of the thigh or calf. You will add 2 or 3 stones in weight to yourself without even trying. Always have the hem sitting at the slimmest part. Just where the legs look slimmer as this will create the illusion of a set of Bambi pins to kill for. Here is a great look to show off slim calfs and this will hide bulky legs if worn with darker tights and boots.

5. Cheep bags of any description that are threadbare. Or that the stitching looks unfinished, tatty or wonky. Hunt for one off good quality leather bags in thrift stores and charity shops. It’s amazing what you can find.

6. White bras. They are the work of the devil. They look nasty after one wash, dreadful under white clothing as they can be seen. Bras should be hand washed at all times to keep them strong and in perfect shape. Nude is a more appealing colour and will sit very nicely under your crisp white shirt to blouse.

7. Legins as trousers…I’m not raging about this one too long. If you can’t see why this is wrong then you need to book my styling services more than you think!

8. Matching your bag with your shoes, it’s so circa 1980s it’s just not cool, try and clash with the other accessories and try different things. You will look way more effortlessly put together and it will spice up even a very simple jeans and T-shirt number.

9. Never go out with dark smoky eyes and deep red lips. It’s too much and my rule of thumb is dark eyes, nude lips. Red or deep lips, simple eyes, say just a black flick and no eyeshadow.

10. Finally the last and most important rule. Don’t get too tied up in size and label snobbery. Try different brands and visit shops you are unfamiliar with. A multitude of amazing finds are just hangers away. Rummage through all size tops. The larger more slouchy ones are sometimes so much more sexy as they drop off the shoulder. Play with your style and have fun with it. Just remember fashion is only in the shops for a few weeks, it’s style that you want to create.

For more styling advice or to book styling session head over to the main SLB Style.com website where you can learn loads more styling tricks and tips

For Photographic work check out sarahbacchus.com

Follow me on Twitter here

Suki Waterhouse In Superga

Posted on October 21, 2014 by Frostie

British actress and model Suki Waterhouse hosts private screening of her new film, ‘Love, Rosie’ with Superga.

Suki is wearing Superga White Flatforms, with Burberry Suit. We think she looks great.

Escape to Aspen with Jockey Loungewear AW14

Posted on October 20, 2014 by Kesh

American underwear brand Jockey famous for it’s all-American style branches out for AW/14 with a brand spanking new Women’s Loungewear collection! In and amongst the collection are cosy tartan prints evocative of an Aspen Lodge but also mixed in the all American vibe certainly steeps through with the more stylish and hipper pieces such as the denim lounge dress and lounge pants.

The collection is built up into three different ranges. ‘Mountain Run’, offers casual lounge dresses, loose jersey t-shirts and shorts, cotton tank tops and boleros. The pieces in this range could definitely serve their purpose as they can be worn outdoors as well as in giving you that extra value for money.

‘Colorado Highlands’ offers a similar range but with the added fun flowery print dressing gown, cosy knitted cardigan and matching hat and scarf. Here are a few of my favourite pieces;

‘Aspen Lounge’ is definitely the part of the collection which will make you wishing Christmas would come sooner. Tartan prints and flannel fabrics are the main feature and the colours are classically Christmassy. Combined with the traditional flannel PJ bottoms and robes there are sexier pieces in the collection such as The Chemise below with lace detailing.

FW14_858622_858025_0332

What I can say about the collection is that they have nailed the essence of winter comforts and well done to Jockey for making the consumer hope for colder night just to try out the collection.

Feathers 40th Birthday Bash

Posted on October 17, 2014 by Sarah Bacchus

We spent a wonderful night celebrating with a charming family and drank some seriously exceptional cocktails. We chatted away to all 3 generations about life, family, pets and the passion of the clothing industry. To say I was in my element would be an understatement.

Snapped with Lilly Pebbles

Robert from Feathers

The charming Richard from D.J. Limbrey Distilling Co

The event was supported by D1 London Gin with the distinctive blue skull artwork created by Jacky Tsai who you all will instantly recognise his designs when I say “Alexander McQween” He was the intern that created the highly sought after fashion accessory that to this day is still coveted.

He is a passionate artist that’s so humble you just gravitate to him. We talked about all his up and coming creations, what inspires him, design, life and his culture. But mostly our love of fabrics, pattern cutting and all the fashion geeky stuff that makes me giddy. I’m really looking forward to seeing his new collection soon and letting you all know more about him.

The reason we where there was to celebrate with Feathers for its 40th birthday. Feathers is a beautiful family run business that first opened it’s doors way back in 1969. The Burstein’s gave the original boutique labels like Biba, Ossie Clark and many more. Now the stunning well established shop has a huge following and an even bigger reputation.

2 Lovely ladies and our very own Catherine right there in the background. Almost a photobomb moment!!

DJ Georgia Lewis was in the house!

We made new friends!

We nibbled on the best canapés

Fabulous Stylists

Edward Aydin from Fashion Broadcasting Corporation Styleisfashion.com

Style and fashion is what I live, breath and sleep for. I’m the kind of girl that goes to bed at night dreaming about all aspects of style, from shooting beauty, helping clients feel and look good to searching for one off outfits I or they will love for years to come.

My idea of a perfect day is browsing in a calm little boutique that I know will always be able to help me find the perfect outfit for my client or myself! Being able to find stunning items that will work on photo shoots or just to browse amongst the delightful clothes and mentally style an outfit from top to bottom I’m my head.
Feathers ticks all the boxes for me and even you are not close to the Knightsbridge store they have an online boutique that’s amazingly user friendly. The company are constantly looking for new and exciting designers to add to the store and website. Keeping it up to date for each and every season. There is something for everyone and quality is guaranteed.

The lovely Alison from Felicities

The charismatic Dominic Limbrey & The oh so talented Jacky Tsai

3 Generations of the Feathers family all squished together! An amazing family and it was so wonderful to meet the Grandma that I adore now as much as my own.

We have decided to go back very soon and feature the store for an article. They where packed to the rafters last night and it was one of the best fashion gorges we have had in a very long time. We filled up on perfectly made cocktails featuring the totally mind blowing infused gin created by D.J. Limbrey and glorious style.

The shop is situated right next to Harrods so you can’t miss it. It’s well worth a visit and even if you can’t make a trip there you have to follow this wonderful families boutique on twitter! If you are near by then pop along, say hello and wander about this beautiful store. If you have ever heard of them then you will thank me so much for introducing it to you! Now get those heels on and hightail yourself off for a gastronomic fashion feast!

Now if you have spotted yourself and want a lovely little link to your website to Twitter page, please don’t hesitate in contacting me @SarahBacchus and l will give you a mention with links. Both myself and my photographer husband Ian Bacchus had a great evening and came home with so many cards we lost track!!

Get Pixie’s Signature Sixties Style

Posted on October 16, 2014 by Frostie

Whilst the starlet may well be building up a new wardrobe of spandex and sparkles whilst appearing on Strictly Come Dancing, Pixie was back to her signature sixties look of sweet retro dresses and high-rise hairstyles when she surprised shoppers with an acoustic performance of her brand new single.

The singer stepped out in this season’s hottest sixties look whilst performing an acoustic version of her single ‘Break Up Song’ at Nectar’s Thanks A million event, wearing a bold patterned shift dress and sexy tousled sixties style hair.

Here’s how to get the look for less on the high street:

Whether it’s a bold pattern or a monochrome classic, the shift dress is a perfect way to channel the sixties look this autumn.

asos.com £38

missguided.co.uk £14.99

Pixies effortless sixties tousled tressers are easy to recreate at home, it’s all about volume! So try rubbing some backcomb dust into the roots of your hair for some seriously big hair that still has natural movement.

Boots.com £4.00

Nothing screams ‘sixities’ more than a classic cat eye flick. For a dramatic look try a gel eyeliner pen for long lasting flicks, or for a more modern twist like Pixie’s try blending soft Kohl for a smouldering style.

All from Boots.com

What do you think?

Win Stylish Clarks Brogues Courtesy of Brantano

Posted on October 1, 2014 by Frostie

You could win a pair of fashionable women’s Clarks brogues courtesy of www.brantano.co.uk and Frost Magazine! Perfect for work or play, these are a must-have style in any shoe collection.

Clarks Carousel Trick Brogues come in a quality black leather, and boast punch-hole detailing and a small heel. They’re the perfect transitional shoe, taking you from the office to the bar effortlessly.

To be in with the chance of winning this fantastic prize, follow @Frostmag on Twitter or Instagram, or like us on Facebook. Alternatively, sign up to our newsletter. Or subscribe to Frost Magazine TV on YouTube here: http://t.co/9etf8j0kkz.Then comment below saying what you did. Competition finished at the end of the month. Good luck, and remember you can find more stylish Clarks footwear here.

1. Entry is open to residents of the UK and Eire aged 18 or over, except for employees of the A Jones & Sons Limited or Brantano (UK) Limited, Frost Magazine, their families, agencies or anyone else associated with the competition. If you are under 18, you must obtain consent from your parent/guardian to enter. By entering into the competition, you confirm that you have this consent.

2. Brantano Footwear complies with the standard procedures laid down in the UK Data Protection Act to ensure that the personal information you give us is kept secure and processed fairly and lawfully. We will not share your information with third parties for marketing purposes. For further details please see our online Privacy Policy at www.brantano.co.uk

3. The winner will be selected on November 1 and will be notified by email no later than two weeks. Brantano Footwear’s or Frost Magazine’s decision will be final and no correspondence will be entered into. There will only be one winner.

4. There is 1 prize consisting of a pair of Clarks Carousel Trick Brogues (subject to availability). Terms and conditions apply.

5. If the Prize is not claimed within 14 days of the winner being notified, Brantano Footwear reserves the right to award the Prize to an alternative winner.

6. Prize is non transferable, non refundable and non negotiable. There is no cash alternative. Brantano Footwear reserves the right to substitute the Prize for one of its choosing which has a value the same or greater than the original prize in the event of circumstances outside of its control.

7. Winner’s details will be available for 6 months after the draw by sending a SAE to Newsletter Prize Draw, Brantano Footwear Marketing Department at the address below.

8. Brantano Footwear reserves the right to (i) cancel this promotion, (ii) cancel or refuse any individual’s entry and (iii) amend these terms and conditions (and will use reasonable endeavours to notify changes to entrants and potential entrants). These terms and conditions shall be governed by English law and exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts. 10. Promoter: A Jones & Sons Limited/Brantano (UK) Limited. Registered no. 288766/3472784. Registered office: Interlink Way West, Interlink Business Park, Bardon, Coalville, Leicestershire, LE67 1LD.

Cowboys & Indians: Gucci SS2015

Posted on September 24, 2014 by Lottie Smith

Gucci seem to be sporting a Wild West theme for Spring/summer, going extreme vintage by bringing back cowboys and Indians!

I get a definite Western vibe from all the feathers, neckties, and denim seen on the runway.

I’m loving the creativity of combining high fashion fabrics and patterns with Wild West infusions. Taking the old embroidery, suede and fur but giving it a modern twist.

Double denim is definitely making a comeback! Again, an obvious cowgirl theme being seen here – simple denim and accessorising with colourful neckties. Give them a cowboy hat and a horse and they’ll be sorted in no time!

*Google Images

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