The Olympics Blues.

So the Olympic ceremony has drawn to a close and I must admit, that even though I take the Gold Medal for being the least sporty person in my family, I am pretty gutted that it's all over. Not only did I get in to watching the amazing talent of the best athletes in the world day in, day out, but the hype surrounding Team GB was phenomenal. The whole country got behind the fortnight of events, as London played host, to what in my opinion, was one of the greatest Olympic games to date. The sense of togetherness was so tight that our team were unstoppable and the support from every inch of the country was heart warming, proving that people from all walks of life CAN work together in harmony.

After the strong lead of the opening ceremony, I was worried that what was to follow would not live up to everyone's expectations...how wrong was I?!? London really saved the best till last, pulling out one of the best performances the world has ever seen; with some of the greatest music acts working alongside the thousands of Olympic volunteers, that helped to make the event so great (I desperately wish that I was one of them).

Despite, just getting in to the general patriotic spirit of things, my fashion eye was never too far away. Here are just a few of my favourite style moments from the closing ceremony...

Muse pulled out a showstopper with this AMAZING
 glittery jacket with the GB flag peeking through. 

Take That were on trend as ever with their military inspired suits.

The volunteers lit up the outline of the Union Jack with these
on trend, electric blue bowler hats...adding a sense
of quirkiness with a light bulb for decoration.

My hero Darcy Bussell rocked out in an electric unitard, fitting in well
with this seasons Gothic Punk trend.

The highlight of my evening however, closely followed by the Spice Girls, was the incorporation of British fashion within the ceremony...and of course my main man McQueen. It was exciting to see that Seb Coe realised the close links between fashion, music, art and even sport; with the best of British house names being flaunted down possibly the BIGGEST catwalk of even supermodel Kate Moss' career. Despite my enthusiasm for the industry getting some of the recognition they deserve, I do have my reservations...the without doubt stunning models - a piece of art in themselves - were made to walk the length of the "Union Jack catwalk" in a some what dated manner. Fashion has moved on leaps and bounds since runway began in the early 1900's, with the introduction to street style and the digital world pushing fashion in to a new dimension...in my opinion, the brief almost emotionless walk didn't do this justice; never the less, the chosen dresses were FANTASTIC.

British Fashion at its BEST.

All in all, the closing ceremony gave me goosebumps, brought tears to my eyes and most of all made me EXTREMELY proud to be British. We are such an amazing country and London 2012 proved this to the world, I can't WAIT for the Paralympics.

Amy x

P.S. The internship is in full swing and I have even been offered a managerial position...updates to follow soon.

Money Making Schemes.

I am sure that you are all sick of me mentioning the fact that I have no money...almost as sick as I am, being poor. BUT today I went and did something about it, in the form of a good old fashioned Car Boot sale.

Yesterday afternoon was spent sorting through a lot of my history, old clothes, shoes, accessories and toys... I even managed to revive one or two pieces that I had forgotten about. The past has reared its ugly head a lot recently in many different ways and the only way to move on - is to LET GO; and what better way to let go, than to sell on my clothes to a new home.

Car Boot Sale in Hempsted (Gloucester), Tea and Cake Break

Mum and I filled the boot up, at what felt like the crack of dawn (really it was 8 in the morning) and set off to the local bartering ground; with a mission to come away with at least a tenner...optimistic, I know. As soon as we got there, the seasoned professionals were looting around the car to try and find themselves a bargain and mum had to beat away a few pervy old men (who I think thought that I was up for auction) with a stick; but after the initial 20 minute set up - we were well away!

Just a few things from the "Girlie Stall"

Mum was getting very in to the visual merchandising of our stall...I am starting to think that maybe she should be the one studying fashion! Within a few hours, we had managed to sell a large percentage of the goods and went away very satisfied, with a profit of over £50. Just enough to treat myself.

If like me and you are willing to do just about anything for money, Car Boots are an excellent starting point, get online to find a local market (trust me - they are EVERYWHERE) and get money making!

As for me, I am going to put my feet up with a stiff drink...next stop EBAY.

Amy x

London Olympics 2012.

Early yesterday morning (VERY early), my family and I set off to the capital for an afternoon of Olympic antics...with Mum's history in the sport, it came as no surprise that we were seeing the Men's Volleyball (MEN'S being a vital part in my eyes!).


My FIRST dilemma of the day...what do you wear to the Olympics? I didn't want to be the most over dressed person at the games, yet neither did I want to rock up in a tracksuit - that only comes out for the gym! I decided casual was the way forward and opted for a polka dot tee, skinny jeans, black biker boots and a fur trimmed cardigan. I think it worked alright and after a Full English brekkie at a local greasy joes, I was ready to face the day.

Earls Court 04/08/2012, Polka Dot Tee TOPSHOP, Black flower £1.99 H&M, Lipstick "The New Black" Rimmel.

Dilemma TWO arrived as we entered the arena...I don't know a SINGLE THING about volleyball, the way its played or the rules - AH A MINOR PROBLEM! But thanks to the handy presenter and demonstration video, this was soon cleared up and its safe to say that after 6 hours of highly skilled Volleyball, (Italy vs. Australia + Russia vs. USA) I THINK I now know what I am talking about...kinda?!

Polka Dot Tee and Jeans both TOPSHOP, Biker Boots Ebay

The atmosphere was electric, crowds screaming their support, mexican waves and the cheerleaders shaking their pom poms. Not forgetting my Italian Stallion and Volleyball dream boat Number 9...who in my opinion was a huge crowd pleaser! After 5 sets in each match the winners were announced, with Italy and Russia coming out as top dogs.


It wouldn't be a trip to London without looking at a few shops (it really was only looking - as I have NEVER been so skint) and this time, it was a cheeky trip to Westfield...what I would do to have that on my doorstep! Its layout is incredible and I LOVE how high street stores are combined with the luxury of "The Village", including huge brands such as Dior, Prada and Burberry. Dilemma THREE, NO money...a girl can dream right?

Shop Windows from Westfield Shopping Centre, London

All in all an action packed day...COME ON TEAM GB!


Amy x

Hats Off.

This rainy Thursday, I have decided there is no time like the present in getting used to wearing my new hat. So, I have put on my black maxi skirt and white cropped tee and instead of sporting my trademark black flower - today I am wearing a black bowler-esqe style hat, courtesy of H&M.

 Hat £7.99; H&M, Lipstick Shade 128 Rimmel; in "Starry Eyed"

There are so many hats available at the moment, at affordable prices from all of your favourite high street stores...and word on the street is that they are a wardrobe staple. 


Whether you are still in summer holiday mode (desperately wishing I was) and a large floppy hat for keeping the sun out of your eyes is your thing; or you are stepping in to the latest Autumn fascination for bowlers, pork pie hats and rollers, a hat is where it is at...Here are two of my favourites:

Blocked Wool Bowler, £22 Accessorize

Black Pork Pie Hate, £7.99 H&M

I am still a little undecided as to whether my alien shaped head can pull off this little beauty, but as promised here are some pictures as proof of my brave purchase...

 Hat £7.99; H&M, Lipstick Shade 128 Rimmel; in "Starry Eyed", Necklace £7.99; H&M, White Cropped Tee £8.00; TOPSHOP

Happy hat hunting,


Amy x

McQ.

Ok, I know I ALWAYS speak of  Alexander McQueen - but he truly was my hero and the starting point for my love for fashion...so just allow my ramblings, ok?!

Today's mention is slightly different; taking a look at the diffusion line McQ. as it makes its first debut down the catwalk for Autumn/Winter 2012. What can I say - PURE GENIUS!

Sarah Burton has managed to re-ignite the flame that sadly died away with the design legend back in 2010 and two years on, the sparks are certainly flying; this wearable collection of both mens and womens clothing, couldn't go without a mention.

McQ. Fall 2012

McQ. Fall 2012

McQ. Fall 2012

McQ. Fall 2012

The catwalk was lined with hundreds upon thousands of Autumn leaves, making that satisfying crunch as the models worked the runway. Designs started off fairly minimal yet skillfully crafted, in neutral shades of greens and khakis. As the show progressed bold florals and patriotic tartans were introduced, with undertones of black lace adding that element of darkness, typical of any McQueen show. The climax however, being a porcelain model wearing an equally porcelain laced dress, following a rope that lead her in to a brightly lit forest shown in the distance; some say this was to represent McQueen's own escape to heaven...a truly beautiful tribute.

And what to say about the wild mushroom inspired hair-do's? I think they speak for themselves!

Reasons why I LOVE Alexander McQueen:

1. The designs have a huge theatrical, over the top influence and having always been one for performance arts myself, this is always a crowd pleaser.

2. The juxtaposition of bright, colourful garments against an underlying dark side is exciting and I like to think this is EVER SO SLIGHTLY represented in my own style.

Amy x

P.S. I took the plunge and bought a hat today...pictures may follow soon, if I am feeling brave enough <3