tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60178257616843920512024-02-29T08:39:49.106+00:00Purple TweedMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.comBlogger307125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-47660490429667891662016-02-13T17:34:00.001+00:002016-02-13T17:34:28.874+00:00"For what the Gods have bestowed upon us mad creatives let us cherish" M.S<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Hello hello, Happy
New….well let’s be honest it’s a bit late for all that isn’t it? However I just
wanted to come back and wipe off the virtual dust and fill you in on my latest
fashion shenanigans.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">As mentioned in
<a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.co.uk/2015/09/design-your-world.html" target="_blank"><i>‘Design Your World</i>’</a>, I am back at fashion school this time round studying
design. After my first term I was incredibly surprised with myself, previous
attempts to pattern cutting and sewing were not always successful. This
occasion I learnt that design is not always about the outcome and more about
the process. I faced one of my (now former) fears of working on the
stand/translation: creating a pattern for a garment using the mannequin. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I remember watching
episodes of <i>‘<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ab/5d/3e/ab5d3edd33df4ab4a2669c1632685199.jpg" target="_blank">Project Runway’</a></i><a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ab/5d/3e/ab5d3edd33df4ab4a2669c1632685199.jpg" target="_blank"> </a>in awe at how they would whip up patterns in what
seemed like matters of minutes using the mannequins, my experience though has
taught me that first and foremost it’s not matters of minutes and secondly it
requires a great deal of patience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The brief set was to
design a jacket for a live competition set by the Society of Dyers and
Colourists entitled ‘Making It Personal’, the key elements of meeting this
brief was: <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">-Colour,<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">- Unique and personal,<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">-Bulk manufacturing with minimum waste <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">-Sustainable</span></i><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">At the introduction <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">of making it personal</i> I decided to do
this in two ways. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tailor the
personalisation to me the designer as well as to the consumer. As an avid art
lover, my work is deeply rooted in a lot of historical and cultural references,
so it seemed more than befitting to use my favourite painting as inspiration
for this project. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sandro
Botticelli’s renaissance Venus would be envisioned as a modern day women
walking the streets of Paris wearing her very own unique jacket designed and
made by moi. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0b/Sandro_Botticelli_-_La_nascita_di_Venere_-_Google_Art_Project_-_edited.jpg/1280px-Sandro_Botticelli_-_La_nascita_di_Venere_-_Google_Art_Project_-_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0b/Sandro_Botticelli_-_La_nascita_di_Venere_-_Google_Art_Project_-_edited.jpg/1280px-Sandro_Botticelli_-_La_nascita_di_Venere_-_Google_Art_Project_-_edited.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">My favourite painting and inspiration for this brief by Sandro Botticelli 'Birth Of Venus'. <a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0b/Sandro_Botticelli_-_La_nascita_di_Venere_-_Google_Art_Project_-_edited.jpg/1280px-Sandro_Botticelli_-_La_nascita_di_Venere_-_Google_Art_Project_-_edited.jpg" target="_blank">Image Source.</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">My ideas were not so
easily formulated but it took to embracing fear by working on the half stand in
order to pave the way to what was a glorious full-scale design. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuaSrj_xDmhnB1UDvsJKveRNAxjYwEVef7XKLNKdul8IVFaDlcwW9PTMtjHVMDzIBFoj6c3ifFPj-_gH6QLLiuSipvlvi8SHQ1csSIgqecLZoyKJrtsIe0JhmxwkSFaxnw0_K5jNO6r7-G/s1600/img_7928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuaSrj_xDmhnB1UDvsJKveRNAxjYwEVef7XKLNKdul8IVFaDlcwW9PTMtjHVMDzIBFoj6c3ifFPj-_gH6QLLiuSipvlvi8SHQ1csSIgqecLZoyKJrtsIe0JhmxwkSFaxnw0_K5jNO6r7-G/s640/img_7928.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This is where I started, on the half scale, my ideas changed and developed as I went on to work on the full size mannequin.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I’m happy and proud to
say that I struggled because I believe that creativity and it’s process in all
its forms should be honest. There is absolutely no point in creating anything
that is easily something you hate. <i><span style="color: magenta;">Do what you love and love what you do</span></i>. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not all have the ability to create human
life, but we do have the gracious marvel that the Gods have bestowed upon us to
create full stop. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am not yet in
completion but I thought I would share with you a part of my journey for this
piece. It is the first jacket I have ever attempted to make and it’s the
beginning of many more. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Toile of my design, still a work in progress.</span></td></tr>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"For what the Gods have bestowed upon us mad creatives let us cherish" M.S</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">For more insight into
my creative word follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/purpletweed/" target="_blank">instagram</a>, <a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/purpletweed/" target="_blank">pinterest</a> and<a href="https://twitter.com/purpletweed" target="_blank"> twitter</a>. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also check out my uni blog <a href="https://melissasamasuwofashiony2.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">here </a>fore a closer look at my
projects etc. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">All toile images are property of M.Samasuwo.</span></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-41091166500734281062015-10-27T00:03:00.000+00:002015-10-27T00:03:41.288+00:00Ciment Pleating<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My background within the fashion industry
to date has largely been focused on marketing, promotion and trend forecasting.
The return to design was inspired by my last freelance role where I worked
collating research of print designs and trends and I eagerly wanted to get back
to working with textiles. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Keeping up to date and re-learning my
skills through the use of YouTube tutorials and sewing projects via ‘<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtgaQhNDSxw" target="_blank">StitchlessTV</a>’ was where I came across established pleaters ‘<a href="http://www.cimentpleating.com/" target="_blank">Ciment Pleating</a>’. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having seen what they do and learning
how extensive the design of a pleat can be, I was ecstatic when they came in
for a talk/seminar at my university. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We were introduced to a lovely gentleman
‘Mat’ who explained that the ‘<a href="http://www.cimentpleating.com/" target="_blank">Ciment Pleating’ </a>business was a 3<sup>rd</sup>
generation family run business set up in 1925. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are ‘<i>the number 1</i>’ pleaters within the UK, and it’s not
hard to see why- their work and craftsmanship is exquisite, their clients range
from Lady Gaga to Her Royal Highness the Queen. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUt4EO5xQOU-zFE1XX4SgGIxOtGaKLXsSAbar_pOYp4zuQI-SxA-tu6DFMP7gQnC4Th3H8Ipj_kc24t4KOtRZAgIqx8MJEtmhj5WoFbpyCce4AS6sIdwDBaSimc-hfX9PgBckH9vwEcLHA/s1600/1414954985706.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUt4EO5xQOU-zFE1XX4SgGIxOtGaKLXsSAbar_pOYp4zuQI-SxA-tu6DFMP7gQnC4Th3H8Ipj_kc24t4KOtRZAgIqx8MJEtmhj5WoFbpyCce4AS6sIdwDBaSimc-hfX9PgBckH9vwEcLHA/s320/1414954985706.jpeg" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HRH Queen Elizabeth II. <a href="http://www.cimentpleating.com/gallery/">Source</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixm_-IIOuc-vYKFEYQtnw-x8DtwflJubdQmMIT9YkznQZTR_tHkhbwh1_zcKxV8j0CJM4CxnK8jl13psszWprZ_oC0tW4S9HZbEDVDORvRuF5cCbrdongZadD9Ofdt5p4xt3ktsc9Bkcfa/s1600/lady-gaga-and-the-living-dress-vin-burnham-x-haus-of-gaga-gallery.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixm_-IIOuc-vYKFEYQtnw-x8DtwflJubdQmMIT9YkznQZTR_tHkhbwh1_zcKxV8j0CJM4CxnK8jl13psszWprZ_oC0tW4S9HZbEDVDORvRuF5cCbrdongZadD9Ofdt5p4xt3ktsc9Bkcfa/s320/lady-gaga-and-the-living-dress-vin-burnham-x-haus-of-gaga-gallery.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lady Gaga in the 'Living dress' designed by Alexander McQueen made out of shower curtains. <a href="http://coolspotters.com/musicians/lady-gaga/and/clothing/the-living-dress-vin-burnham-x-haus-of-gaga/media/1349167#medium-1349167">Source.</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">He went on to explain the two basic pleats
‘</span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">flat/knife pleat</i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">’ and the ‘</span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Accordion</i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">’ pleat. It was extremely intriguing to
discover that over 350 different pleats were based on those two simple patterns.
Their widespread range of pleats showed me that you can really transform a
cheap fabric and create a texture that makes it look divine and it was also good
to know that ‘</span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">the cheaper the fabric, the better it pleats</i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">’- Polyester haul
here I come!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDHk3b_z3a2L3w8cYYlFFf09OfVhcQxPFmBYqg1ADco3C-evsOUrms1rTqdH6ts3yWr2PM0Ap2yaWp3DdVgvH447sIAfxYC2U1x9yJ-JjbugmwdTJQZMX4Ixn9mDU1QvjXVyROFAd3_p6y/s1600/Ciment+Pleating+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDHk3b_z3a2L3w8cYYlFFf09OfVhcQxPFmBYqg1ADco3C-evsOUrms1rTqdH6ts3yWr2PM0Ap2yaWp3DdVgvH447sIAfxYC2U1x9yJ-JjbugmwdTJQZMX4Ixn9mDU1QvjXVyROFAd3_p6y/s1600/Ciment+Pleating+2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Getting the opportunity to integrate with
third years is great because I can learn from them in order to be successful in
my progression-thinking ahead to my final collection, I know I definitely want
to incorporate pleating into my designs and I can already see a plush butter
soft leather coat with honeycomb pleating walking down the catwalk…</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It’s a technical business that requires a
great deal of math in order to know the right amount of fabric you need. The
pleating process in essence shrinks your fabric- so baring that in mind in
regards to the final size of your made up garment is imperative. The thought of
spending £60 a meter and ruining it by not having the right amount doesn’t bare
thinking about. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp319PC5KoqYZySCmYE70wkqXETBiuLBdOeal4l3hTYw7HMhQZ2xmcKXV__KrpRBX_fCBZy0Sda6rGhSQQMQJSqh0dOIXTmNCp__ynwhjRbtLMuGU6G-nbyMr4yK33yB14v_PcR_Wwvy2v/s1600/Ciment+Pleating+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp319PC5KoqYZySCmYE70wkqXETBiuLBdOeal4l3hTYw7HMhQZ2xmcKXV__KrpRBX_fCBZy0Sda6rGhSQQMQJSqh0dOIXTmNCp__ynwhjRbtLMuGU6G-nbyMr4yK33yB14v_PcR_Wwvy2v/s1600/Ciment+Pleating+.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I walked away (<i>with a load of pleated
swatches</i>) and knowing that lamb and cow skin leather of a medium thickness
pleats surprisingly well, suede is a dream pleater too and when it comes to
pleating and the aftercare, the best way to go is using fabrics that are either
100% polyester or with a minimum content of 40%. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJ8wkbF1nf2wIhSmh0PI3MiLy2VKxxMOGjJhHHj92fycg__nOsyRqW185uXz523NyZxLFUFfeq8hICUbuJc6DFZ9uxeuApLbswGYixff29kKda5omq1UzbqGF-qhri9SWgVYOOavGcQoG/s1600/Ciment+Pleating+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJ8wkbF1nf2wIhSmh0PI3MiLy2VKxxMOGjJhHHj92fycg__nOsyRqW185uXz523NyZxLFUFfeq8hICUbuJc6DFZ9uxeuApLbswGYixff29kKda5omq1UzbqGF-qhri9SWgVYOOavGcQoG/s1600/Ciment+Pleating+3.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favourite Pleat pattern 'The Honeycomb.<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Below is a quick video demo of the process
of pleating that Mat and his team does in order to create fabulous pleats. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><br /><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/kXIhvQIqQDY/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kXIhvQIqQDY?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-60412820597598164252015-10-22T19:23:00.000+01:002015-10-22T19:23:24.071+01:00Quinton & Chadwick <div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Today we had an
industry talk with Jess Quinton part of knitwear based design duo ‘Quinton
& Chadwick’. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">‘<i>Designed in Britain,
made in Britain worn worldwide</i>’, their design ethos is traditional, modern
quirky knitwear for men, women and children.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Since their launch
nearly 15 years ago-their logo has been the one thing about them that has
remained the same, which they feel sets them apart from others therefore
creating a strong brand identity. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Priding themselves to
be part of the growing ‘<i>slow fashion</i>’ movement, their USP is that, all their
manufacturing work is not done off shore but instead taps into heritage yarn
spinning factory’s based around England and Scotland.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Currently their
collections of knitwear-based accessories are a one-season product for
menswear, womenswear and a small line of mittens for their most recent kidswear
collection. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was my first time being
introduced to and hearing about a business module that is based on wholesale
trade but only works according to one season. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Usually the fashion season cycle consists of Spring Summer, (Resort),
and Autumn Winter, however Jess explained the cycle of the product from initial
ideas, design, manufacturing and right through to their stockists both local
and around the globe. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Their unique and quirky
product got me thinking deeply about market research and the attitude brands
have towards their consumers. Quinton & Chadwick’s accessories are made to
‘<i>love and keep</i>’ and that is reflected in the design and craftsmanship which
takes traditional techniques and breathes new life into simple products like scarf’s
and berets.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">They understand the
value that their customer places within the ‘heritage’ branding and allows them
to trade on a global scale reaching out to people all over that adore the
quintessential British lifestyle. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieRFakKzNXht66sTQFtIuup44THLMQwW1HvtGloN822OL98uphYyR2Opc8UAAnRRD1TRQba86DyFXrGpuBe-XDELYkMKdhVbyBDZ3MI1J_9udYoj89lGpfYsrfZ-crjbBTHhQnuWGTSJ7J/s1600/Quinton+%2526+Chadwick+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieRFakKzNXht66sTQFtIuup44THLMQwW1HvtGloN822OL98uphYyR2Opc8UAAnRRD1TRQba86DyFXrGpuBe-XDELYkMKdhVbyBDZ3MI1J_9udYoj89lGpfYsrfZ-crjbBTHhQnuWGTSJ7J/s1600/Quinton+%2526+Chadwick+.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Images pulled from Quinton & Chadwick site.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Fortnum & Mason,
Liberty’s, Anthropologie, Baycrews and Tomorrowland are just a few of their
national and international stockists. Collaboration is something that cannot be
separated from creativity and creative processes. This is very evident with
both Jess and Jane. Originally tutored in fashion and textile design, Quinton
& Chadwick have used their skills to work with a few brands and schemes
from Dashing Tweed to ‘</span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">wool week</i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">’ initiative, they also created a collection
for the Victoria and Albert Museum shop- one of London’s most revered and
popular museums.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMiQEgu2XwPKlFxbbIoDOVgWzV-k4v7eDDnxDNZjRZ91H8cTERIbUdhzNYvBDX4RsS_p_Unq8UmhkmK33h-8sSeXNRNHk03JmqsTQK8pEjKGAP05WQY0M6bNsja3DBZ-FyuWRXfJgdLLft/s1600/Quinton+%2526+Chadwick+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMiQEgu2XwPKlFxbbIoDOVgWzV-k4v7eDDnxDNZjRZ91H8cTERIbUdhzNYvBDX4RsS_p_Unq8UmhkmK33h-8sSeXNRNHk03JmqsTQK8pEjKGAP05WQY0M6bNsja3DBZ-FyuWRXfJgdLLft/s1600/Quinton+%2526+Chadwick+2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: -webkit-standard;">Images pulled from Quinton & Chadwick site.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The biggest things
that I learned from this seminar were that if you work out and think smart
about what you want and would like to do from a creative perspective, it
becomes much easier to work out a business model in order to start and stabilise
your brand-which in turn helps you to identify your market and to see if your
customer really ‘<i>is’ </i>out there and/or not being serviced by somebody
else/another company. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Being Made in Britain
is possible. Yes it is true that the higher the quality of the product,
craftsmanship etc does make the end retail price to be considered in the
‘luxury’ market. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However when I
look at the price range of their product: £35-£110, it is not ‘that’ expensive
when you think of the work that goes into that particular product-and the sense
of pride knowing that you have put something back into your country’s economy is
like a badge of honour for the conscious fashion consumer. However I do think it’s
highly variable product to product. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Finally like with all
things creative, it’s important to be a sponge and soak up all the information available
and applicable to you. Starting a business can be daunting and a true learning
curve-but research everything from competitions to government backed funding
and even local communities that have small fares or textile/knitting
groups/circles. All these things will help you to start and to maintain that
which you have set out to do. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I really look forward
to attending more industry related talks and seminars. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-1869277322722529842015-10-18T20:00:00.000+01:002015-11-08T11:09:22.156+00:00Aagust Fashion<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="" name="OLE_LINK5"><span lang="EN-US">Fresh Fashion and
Textile design graduates </span></a><span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #343434;">Emalda Mbulo and
Suwilanji Katuka are founders of new brand ‘Aagust’. Having just finished the
course that I am currently studying I was very eager to hear their experiences
in setting up their own label. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #343434;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Having worked for a slot to present at
Africa Fashion Week London, they describe their brand as “<i>a combination of two
skills; tailoring and African based textile and print techniques like weaving,
which create versatile clothing full of personality</i>”, the exponential exposure
from the show lead them to go on and win ‘<i>Africa Fashion Week London Young
designer of the year award</i>’. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #343434;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This helped them secure an opportunity to
exhibit at London Fashion Week.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCynQKVrlC-YjyZRlF7jSN6YCVabPDnjbr2a8sqeUOkagXG_UvJg54U6BUondc5wDuieXfos9L7sqkmZi5eaKsaJlfJma-DONmTOb8s0A3o6gE-9fpvPj2g42DvyoSAgeRCeZP5mKMMO4A/s1600/20151009_155018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCynQKVrlC-YjyZRlF7jSN6YCVabPDnjbr2a8sqeUOkagXG_UvJg54U6BUondc5wDuieXfos9L7sqkmZi5eaKsaJlfJma-DONmTOb8s0A3o6gE-9fpvPj2g42DvyoSAgeRCeZP5mKMMO4A/s1600/20151009_155018.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A very informal intimate seminar from the girls at Aagust.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #343434;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #343434;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The coverage from both shows has opened new
doors for them and helped set out a pathway for their new business. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #343434;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Getting a chance to view some of their
pieces up close and personal was really great. Their aesthetic is strong and
eclectic and really lends the ‘warrior’ theme well and appropriates it to both
men and women. They discussed
their influences, inspirations and even some of their setbacks too. Hearing
this type of advice and honesty from two ladies who were once in my position
and see them in the early stages of their business was really eye opening. </span><span style="font-family: ProximaNova-Regular;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK5;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #343434;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwu9xpyk1fXxwbDotji3H_lHvda2Z2ZcdQM6TbPvBe7VAC1mUUPjItd1aCcezphwEldFIZGGwZUyUl6f_4mtd3x-ytmNa6pdynrliibZy_zJynyFEOu5GzkrHyZtkiUDK_b6UXzoBFKrOT/s1600/1440026231309.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwu9xpyk1fXxwbDotji3H_lHvda2Z2ZcdQM6TbPvBe7VAC1mUUPjItd1aCcezphwEldFIZGGwZUyUl6f_4mtd3x-ytmNa6pdynrliibZy_zJynyFEOu5GzkrHyZtkiUDK_b6UXzoBFKrOT/s1600/1440026231309.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Showcasing their work at Africa Fashion Week London. <a href="http://www.africafashionweeklondon.com/news/2015/8/20/afwl-young-designer-of-the-year" target="_blank">Image Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Dqfwg_49c3cByOmFTBD8S2ogPv30IDFKZCl18L-oL5prlVu4yPw7QvKJJ-q2RDxTZ2paQVfvijdpyAUjzuqJSareh73LhEDZSxe-qfpKRqhWZ_vrIoabCWg5A3PWHHpjsONKhSndA365/s1600/1440026369277.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Dqfwg_49c3cByOmFTBD8S2ogPv30IDFKZCl18L-oL5prlVu4yPw7QvKJJ-q2RDxTZ2paQVfvijdpyAUjzuqJSareh73LhEDZSxe-qfpKRqhWZ_vrIoabCWg5A3PWHHpjsONKhSndA365/s1600/1440026369277.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Showcasing their work at Africa Fashion Week London. <a href="http://www.africafashionweeklondon.com/news/2015/8/20/afwl-young-designer-of-the-year" target="_blank">Image Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-8108690804071955752015-10-18T19:08:00.000+01:002015-10-18T19:08:03.831+01:00The Martini Spider
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="" name="OLE_LINK1"></a><span lang="EN-US">First week here at university
and to get our creative juices and collaborative skills flowing we were given
our first project brief to complete. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In the world of the creative arts, mixing of
disciplines is deeply encouraged both in academics and industry. This also
breeds the conceptual way of thinking and developing ideas. Inspired by individuals like Hussein Chalayan
and his A/W 2000 collection and Martino Gamper’s ‘<i>100 chairs 100 Days</i>’
exhibition. We were instructed to work in groups to create a ‘sitting device’
out of anything we could find, around the campus or town centre to build with,
construct, glue, hammer, saw, file etc, the only premise was that it shouldn’t
look like ‘<i>a chair’. </i></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsYWmcQhAGo9hk_6NphpgUalDHJpMuDIP7KdtGn8rJthZO4T8BX-9o2-QMTN_7YCc20WXasFxzr1S_NdheRmoaGFt7fJiKyEnqctoUM7tuI5_4ByANDm72bx2wl-wqUUnre_rHi5bhD_PQ/s1600/A+sitting+device.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsYWmcQhAGo9hk_6NphpgUalDHJpMuDIP7KdtGn8rJthZO4T8BX-9o2-QMTN_7YCc20WXasFxzr1S_NdheRmoaGFt7fJiKyEnqctoUM7tuI5_4ByANDm72bx2wl-wqUUnre_rHi5bhD_PQ/s1600/A+sitting+device.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; color: #333333; font-size: 11px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A Sitting Device Moodpboard created by Melissa Samasuwo. Using natural products and elements to create the theme of balance and shape.</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">At first I was taken aback but also inspired, from
a fashion perspective it’s somewhat easier to assume the usual ideas of fashion
and use skills like sewing and draping in order to make something. However within my group we quickly
discovered that the use of fabric and contemporary fashion design methods were
too cliché and would probably end up being too close to Chalayan’s
groundbreaking show. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We allowed our minds to run wild and allow the
materials that we found to be our starting point. Finding bits of wood,
plastic, metal nails, electric wiring and insulation foam ended up being what
turned out to be ‘<i>The Martini Spider</i>’.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMA5Yqf_n_h9YGKdCEzoI2kuEdD87LMrGX6AxpjYy-kuAm2fKyvzlw8C5ZXPSOZuGx7MzPPWTvym_AafW-7AUTh_LP6r071IqBbeTa86rw-Ope-4H_zvPTo4FtNNpUBjYsOSEi5lFbKDDE/s1600/20151002_170306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMA5Yqf_n_h9YGKdCEzoI2kuEdD87LMrGX6AxpjYy-kuAm2fKyvzlw8C5ZXPSOZuGx7MzPPWTvym_AafW-7AUTh_LP6r071IqBbeTa86rw-Ope-4H_zvPTo4FtNNpUBjYsOSEi5lFbKDDE/s1600/20151002_170306.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">'The Martini Spider' Designed and created by Tia Charter, Lauren Pearson, Melissa Samasuwo.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Our research took us to various shapes and forms,
at first we thought we’d build a box and use old cd discs and make a ‘cd
storage’ box for a dj that transforms into something you can sit on, all be it
uncomfortable-the law of physics didn’t apply here and more importantly the
device didn’t necessarily need to be functional or beautiful-it just had to fulfill
the brief of being a sitting device. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Funnily enough our frustrations and creative blocks
led us to think of cocktails-and thus the shape of a martini glass came about. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It was great fun gluing, sanding and filing bits of
wood-it reminded me more of my high school days in design technology working
with the concept of joinery. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To bring in an element of textiles I used some
cream yarn I had lying around at home to create a weaving technique to bring a
bit of beauty to an otherwise extremely conceptual art piece. </span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1nih7oTVoyaAjkfXnfjeIsilK6mEiuNc62Es3ruzmIw9hNVIKzBpOiK53ToGR3I-Mgs049XOriSGox6ECFnMEAX3O2640yC6fG2rHScMbZrm23idDaV0F9qFdxrlXHVrE055hMShNelp/s1600/20150930_130106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1nih7oTVoyaAjkfXnfjeIsilK6mEiuNc62Es3ruzmIw9hNVIKzBpOiK53ToGR3I-Mgs049XOriSGox6ECFnMEAX3O2640yC6fG2rHScMbZrm23idDaV0F9qFdxrlXHVrE055hMShNelp/s1600/20150930_130106.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; color: #333333; font-size: 11px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Weaving process used to add an element of Textiles into the design.</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIp2Lct2K0U0HSu9AKU_1HdvZbD50FNZmJQf-cbfFmro852Jx_-bKCIatPxeHIO4G5cpCLQ2zByMK3Oz2h74mJ_OH-5FOIkbSN9BBryiZ_j05V7Q8b9er0BbOmU-fz8qOwNYAhTocR_GON/s1600/20150930_130113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIp2Lct2K0U0HSu9AKU_1HdvZbD50FNZmJQf-cbfFmro852Jx_-bKCIatPxeHIO4G5cpCLQ2zByMK3Oz2h74mJ_OH-5FOIkbSN9BBryiZ_j05V7Q8b9er0BbOmU-fz8qOwNYAhTocR_GON/s1600/20150930_130113.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I enjoyed working within the group of the two other
second years starting new at university like me. We got to know each other
better, and we all quickly discovered each other’s strengths and weaknesses and
used them to come together and have a finished product. Both Tia and Lauren were extremely
resourceful and had every tool under the sun to help us; I found that by
creating moodboard allowed our ideas to formulate better and to ensure to
ourselves that our vision would remain clear. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The final presentation and exhibition of all the
other ‘sitting devices’ was very entertaining and informal which cemented the week’s
activities nicely. The winning
group created a horror type ‘gynecology’ chair, and the runner up came up with
a chair made out of shopping trolleys, which was very innovative. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Original Blog Post can be found <a href="https://melissasamasuwofashiony2.wordpress.com/2015/10/18/a-sitting-device/" target="_blank">here.</a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment--><br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-6033925733139504002015-10-03T17:23:00.000+01:002015-10-03T17:48:34.998+01:00The Evolution Of the Topshop Girl<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The evolution of the
Topshop girl is something I have seen change, expand and grow before my very
own eyes. Always the covetable brand on the British High Street Topshop, unlike
some of it’s other competitors always had an underlying ‘<i>cool factor’</i> that
emphasised that they didn’t need to try too hard to be cool, they just were and
it was very evident in their clothes, marketing and even store layout. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">However it wasn’t
until 2006, the somewhat controversial decision came about that they decided to
launch their own high end ‘<i>designer’</i> collection at London Fashion Week, a
collection that had all the Topshop ‘<i>it-girl factor’</i> but was accessible as
their 2 for £10 jersey promotion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Entering into
uncharted fashion waters was a risky move but one that has paid off
tremendously. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All the public and
media scrutiny enforced a change within the brand, from head office
communications right down to the curtains in the fitting rooms. Topshop grew
up. No longer where they that <i>“scrawny bitchy fashionay girl”</i> instead they
embraced change, longer hem lengths and camera phone friendly lighting. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I entered into the
Topshop world, as they were now beginning to roll out this change to all their
nationwide stores. From a practical sense I know that unlike British boy-band
pop legends ‘<i>Take That</i>’, Topshop will never really grow up, they will always
continue to be the ones who cultivate style into young girls and women around
the world who are yet to create their own personal style. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">True, like with most
brands or trends, people abuse these <i>“fashion systems</i>” and you have armies of
girls and their friends walking down the streets all looking the same, but
that’s where personal style comes in. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Topshop has those eccentric and dare I say it <i>“unique”</i>
pieces, if you look hard enough. Usually the best stuff is at the back of the
rail or beautifully curated in their ‘last chance to buy section” I personally
love trawling through that section in every store-always something rare or
<i>‘unseen'</i> waiting to be introduced to the rest of your wardrobe. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX90b526J97I8dLWGg73m8NF9oTKOj7CUzBmN2wXYoHjmux_j4qmxuWrU7uQNf1Q08R-ZkpVum0eDF9Y-MCEVZ_Li2oMg7522IULMVsb46APV0i8Kfn6Zkg2-JwvtqvcnCOxaibbEyKY11/s1600/Topshop+Girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX90b526J97I8dLWGg73m8NF9oTKOj7CUzBmN2wXYoHjmux_j4qmxuWrU7uQNf1Q08R-ZkpVum0eDF9Y-MCEVZ_Li2oMg7522IULMVsb46APV0i8Kfn6Zkg2-JwvtqvcnCOxaibbEyKY11/s1600/Topshop+Girl.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A style timeline of some of the looks from their previous shows. There has definitely been some growth!<br />Image Source: style.com</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This brand growth or
change can be seen more and more as I swift through images of their latest SS16
collection shown in September at London Fashion Week. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unlike some of they’re previous less
desirable collections, the touch of sophistication, refinement, ability to edit
and purity of Kate Phelan has made the Topshop Unique collection one to watch
out for season after season. The gimmicks and garish themes have been swapped
for effortless chic, especially in regards to SS16. Fair enough not every piece
is wearable, sure <i>I’d get a few more whistles down the street in a red thigh
high polka dot dress</i>, but for the woman who knows her style-she doesn’t have to
do to much to make it work with a Topshop Unique dress, and that is something
to be credited for. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzel0QGHBiag8gENjttVxx3INig7aWrPGRpgZeDrFfatBRohbCZUPVgfYiG0XqmMD527HnZCKe1hNd-3K-oe-GylfQjP45GQJghkO-JCDAjPk6MjFBwHuN9o505tXm_dlC5zn4BLpJKEA/s1600/Topshop+Girl2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzel0QGHBiag8gENjttVxx3INig7aWrPGRpgZeDrFfatBRohbCZUPVgfYiG0XqmMD527HnZCKe1hNd-3K-oe-GylfQjP45GQJghkO-JCDAjPk6MjFBwHuN9o505tXm_dlC5zn4BLpJKEA/s1600/Topshop+Girl2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Some of my favourite looks from their SS16 runway..that pink leather coat looks so supple and needs to be mine...<br />Image Source: <a href="http://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2016-ready-to-wear/topshop-unique/slideshow/collection#28">style.com</a></i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">When you think about
more of the established fashion houses such as Gucci or Prada-you already know
what comes to mind whether you shopped there or not is irrelevant, the identity
of that brand has been long formed with or without you in mind. The generation
we live in now, thanks to the use of the internet and social media means that a
brand or company would be foolish to not listen too or recognise their
consumers needs and wants when it comes to fashion, beauty and lifestyle. My
personal view is that Topshop has made a smart move by being that ‘<i>stepping
stone</i>’ fashion brand that caters to a majority who are yet to discover that in
reality, they’d much rather consign with the design aesthetic of <i>Junya Watanabe</i>
or be more inclined to pieces by<i> Carolina Herrera</i>. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In this, they never really have to allow their girl to grow
up- she can flit and flutter between trends, cuts and even <i>budget</i> but she won’t
stray too far, especially if the latest designer collab is something that’s
going to introduce her to individuality. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Having left the
company and allowing my fashion retail experience enhance my own style and
approach to trends, I am very intrigued to see what they do going forward and for
all the faults that they and <i>many high street brands have</i>, I’m sure they won’t lack
for a new crop of girls to inspire, style and graduate them into the fun world
of fashion as they leave their ‘<i>girl</i>’ days behind and enter ‘<i>womanhood’</i>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Disclaimer: This post is my own personal
view, words and opinion and has not been sponsored or endorsed. </i></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-77544165573954549322015-09-29T19:56:00.000+01:002015-09-29T19:56:09.440+01:00Design Your World<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigGc5Q0_7zEnCsB-lNDnp05gtvqe2_V6zeBSX0UJBWSUSrAso-fFzlv7kKkYvD6rgrnY6pY7f8t8_kgHLNlR08I9_QfN-137r63jw7ugli_ND08ZnB81V7kidwxcWui6U-ut0vBDl-alD0/s1600/Design+Your+World.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigGc5Q0_7zEnCsB-lNDnp05gtvqe2_V6zeBSX0UJBWSUSrAso-fFzlv7kKkYvD6rgrnY6pY7f8t8_kgHLNlR08I9_QfN-137r63jw7ugli_ND08ZnB81V7kidwxcWui6U-ut0vBDl-alD0/s1600/Design+Your+World.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Direct image sources available on my Pinterest Board <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/purpletweed/design-your-world/">'Design Your World"</a></span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">'<i>The things you are
passionate about are not random, they are your calling</i>.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I don’t think anyone
could put it any better that Mr Fabienne Fredrickson. It was only the other
night that I truly cemented in my heart, mind and soul that designing my own
world was and is part of my purpose in life. My calling has seen me running
back to the fashion design studio at school. With a good wealth of commercial
fashion experience, I’m ready to put needle to fabric and sew my heart out. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">From a reflective note
I’ve always wanted and needed a space to work in, whether it was a little corner
at the end of the bunkbed in my childhood home or installing an industrial
workbench in the loft, a creative official workspace to ‘<i>cut oneself off</i>’ from
the rest of the world/home so to speak, has always been an essential need. An individual
without one is very miserable at best. I know in the deepest depths of my heart
having a space (<i>similar to the moodboard above</i>) where I can sew, paint, draw,
cut, design, potter, splash, embroider you name it, is one of my greatest
desires. Either in the home or separate either way I know I will be happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For now I will make the absolute most
of the uni pattern cutting tables and overlockers (<i>drools</i>), not to mention the
screen printing facilities available (<i>harmonises the words…(heaven)</i> . Meanwhile
until such time the aforementioned occurs, I will enjoy buying more fabric
(<i>buttons, zips, sequins, ribbons, knitting yarn) (as well as use the ones I
have now #hoarder)</i>, increase my storage organising skills so much so Martha
Stewart will be in awe, because a messy discombobulated studio is just <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘<i>no bueno</i>’ for moi, because it will be
very important to stock up-otherwise I will have an empty studio. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So as I work towards
this, I’m just putting it out there… <i>investors, friends, family, future husband</i>
or anyone who wants to sell/give me a spot on <a href="http://www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-51539704.html?backListLink=%2Fproperty-for-sale%2Ffind.html%3FlocationIdentifier%3DPOSTCODE%255E912206%26minPrice%3D1000000%26maxPrice%3D1500000%26minBedrooms%3D4%26radius%3D0.5&onetime_savedPropertyId=51539704#summary51539704">London’s ‘<i>great Talgarth road</i></a>’ (
<i>those windows!!!</i>) …..you know what to do hehe</span>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i> For more of my design and creative shenanigans follow me on <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/purpletweed/">Pinterest!! </a></i></span></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-13058183884332635312015-06-20T20:20:00.001+01:002015-09-09T20:24:13.870+01:00#PurpleTweedBoutique <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Time for a wardrobe refresh, <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/291497072555?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649">browse</a> and tell me what you like, and what you'd like to see more of.</span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx4FqlF5YTz6IBtHJc2OY4ds_SCFR5JAomb9LzlZtgOrIrd3cYA7mrG0Nbr0UE49OYZ3wxaM_VBZak68iHonyyia0oWrmEzV1BRptVL4c3U82MPfM-mYSZ96o_ERzm4UhQvb-8Ys9UfaqJ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-06-20+at+20.16.37.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx4FqlF5YTz6IBtHJc2OY4ds_SCFR5JAomb9LzlZtgOrIrd3cYA7mrG0Nbr0UE49OYZ3wxaM_VBZak68iHonyyia0oWrmEzV1BRptVL4c3U82MPfM-mYSZ96o_ERzm4UhQvb-8Ys9UfaqJ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-06-20+at+20.16.37.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I will start also including some bits and pieces that I have made too.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">xx </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/291497072555?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649">PurpleTweedBoutique</a></span></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D6017825761684392051%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-n8ytbYdVQvo%2FVYW8ghXUHAI%2FAAAAAAAADLQ%2FA_ZJtNFg-GA%2Fs1600%2FScreen%252BShot%252B2015-06-20%252Bat%252B20.16.37.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.36&xuid=DgWNooahCMy7&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 117px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D6017825761684392051%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-n8ytbYdVQvo%2FVYW8ghXUHAI%2FAAAAAAAADLQ%2FA_ZJtNFg-GA%2Fs1600%2FScreen%252BShot%252B2015-06-20%252Bat%252B20.16.37.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.36&xuid=DgWNooahCMy7&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 117px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D6017825761684392051%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-n8ytbYdVQvo%2FVYW8ghXUHAI%2FAAAAAAAADLQ%2FA_ZJtNFg-GA%2Fs1600%2FScreen%252BShot%252B2015-06-20%252Bat%252B20.16.37.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.36&xuid=DgWNooahCMy7&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 117px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D6017825761684392051%23editor&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-n8ytbYdVQvo%2FVYW8ghXUHAI%2FAAAAAAAADLQ%2FA_ZJtNFg-GA%2Fs1600%2FScreen%252BShot%252B2015-06-20%252Bat%252B20.16.37.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.36&xuid=DgWNooahCMy7&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 117px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D6017825761684392051%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D1305818388433263531%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dallposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dallposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-n8ytbYdVQvo%2FVYW8ghXUHAI%2FAAAAAAAADLQ%2FA_ZJtNFg-GA%2Fs1600%2FScreen%252BShot%252B2015-06-20%252Bat%252B20.16.37.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.36&xuid=DgWNooahCMy7&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 117px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D6017825761684392051%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D1305818388433263531%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dallposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dallposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-n8ytbYdVQvo%2FVYW8ghXUHAI%2FAAAAAAAADLQ%2FA_ZJtNFg-GA%2Fs1600%2FScreen%252BShot%252B2015-06-20%252Bat%252B20.16.37.png&xm=h&xv=sa1.36&xuid=DgWNooahCMy7&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 117px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-5166529275937714172015-06-12T18:29:00.001+01:002015-06-12T18:29:55.103+01:00Creativity vs Logic. <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A friend today asked me ' <i>If I was still blogging?</i>'. So I awkwardly sent him the '<i>monkey covering face emoji</i>' as it was a conversation shared through the synonymous '<i>WhatsApp</i>' (<i>takes a while to correctly spell synonymous-damn spell-check</i>).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But honestly and truthfully, I have been un-inspired, depressed, stressed, TIRED and on an all time low for creative juices, and it's been like that for quite some months now, but it wasn't until a few days ago that I decided to still '<i>creatively do'</i> even when I don't feel like it or think I have anything to give. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Creativity can be cruel sometimes and so can logic, you just have to balance everything but theres nothing like that moment when you stumble upon sheer brilliance or have your '<i>eureka moment</i>'. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I sit here with many things to do, and responsibilities to fulfil but it's a humid rainy Friday evening and I have had my or found someone elses '<i>eureka moment</i>' and let's just say its like a creative orgasm. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Many things inspire me, and I don't believe that inspiration can truly come from one source.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/p0aLMsh4mvU/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p0aLMsh4mvU?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.highsnobiety.com/2015/06/10/orchestra-hip-hop-history/?utm_campaign=SF+Highsnobiety&utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Social">Source.</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 29px;">Radzimir Dębski and the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra are today's soundtrack to unleashing the creative world within me. I <i>love</i> this video. I love how they </span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 29.000001907348633px;">have taken such classic hip-hop, mixed the genres and instruments but still managed to maintain the '<i>swagger</i>,' '<i>vibe</i>', and sheer '<i>dope</i>' attitude that is within hip-hop music.</span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 29px;"> Peep how </span></span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 29.000001907348633px;">Dębski</span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 29.000001907348633px;"> is bouncing with every track in his '<i>blue suede trainers</i>'</span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 29px;"> ,classically the </span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 29.000001907348633px;">melancholy in</span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 29px;"> Kanye's 'Flashing Light's' does something that makes it uber romantic to </span><span style="line-height: 29.000001907348633px;">waltz</span><span style="line-height: 29px;"> to. I don't have much else to say other than, enjoy! </span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 29px;">I thank my two friends </span><span style="line-height: 29.000001907348633px;">today for this post; the one who wisely called me out on 'WhatsApp' and the other one who shared this video on my Facebook timeline. </span></span></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-51042928964196229782015-01-29T20:47:00.001+00:002015-01-29T20:47:18.331+00:00All things Nude.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqLTm9XtnoqPpLgUCKMSjiF256eW8oVjvtPue7K6SK8c1MSjNG8tvDop7wTSmnZU0wpm95aKISOJwdNtyaJvjciLQYVHnk2w5KDFf2IBIhgg3HMGa8xUDmY2v9SJ5wJyx3jrV9Wv4B8-Pv/s1600/All+things+nude.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqLTm9XtnoqPpLgUCKMSjiF256eW8oVjvtPue7K6SK8c1MSjNG8tvDop7wTSmnZU0wpm95aKISOJwdNtyaJvjciLQYVHnk2w5KDFf2IBIhgg3HMGa8xUDmY2v9SJ5wJyx3jrV9Wv4B8-Pv/s1600/All+things+nude.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.nubianskin.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Source</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">'</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;"><i style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I feel that the simplicity of life is just being yourself</span></i><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: large;">' </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">(Bobbi Brown)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large; line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large; line-height: 20px;">Nothing comes close to being yourself, than loving the skin you are in, and with there being so many shades of 'nude' it's strange and unfair that the nude complexion is difficult to find for black women. I mean beige is hardly sexy is it? </span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">In the middle of my research for some lingerie design I have been working on..I stumbled across the </span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;">brand '<a href="https://www.nubianskin.com/" target="_blank">Nubian Skin</a>' which answers the very issue of providing 'smalls'in shades suitable for black women. </span></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large; line-height: 20px;">First and foremost I LOVE the name, so unique and tells you about the brand straight away without having to explain or make it awkward to make people understand. (</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large; line-height: 20px;"><i>a bit like when you have to explain how weaves work..and the crowd nods</i></span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large; line-height: 20px;">).</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large; line-height: 20px;">The range is simple and chic and covers the basics from your lacy push ups to smooth t-shirt bras. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">What I appreciate to is their little helpful '<a href="https://www.nubianskin.com/skin-tone" target="_blank">nude colour grade</a>' system which </span></span><span style="line-height: 20px;">references popular make-up foundation brands like MAC NC50 or Estee Lauder Double Wear in toasted toffee. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">...more importantly it's available in the UK!!<a href="http://www.asos.com/" target="_blank"> ASOS</a> so far are the only other retailers besides their site-they are selling fast. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I only hope they do a DD+ range too.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am awaiting my order- which I will include in an upcoming post based on all my favourite nude things from beauty to fashion etc. </span></span></div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-61540615170909019292015-01-17T18:47:00.001+00:002015-01-17T18:51:46.493+00:00The Revolution will not be Texturised. <div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I have had my hair in its
‘<i>natural state</i>’ as God himself gave it to me, since October 2013. Prior to that
I was very wishy-washy about my hair care. From a young age, I remember the
many various ways I would convince my mother to deal with my course
tresses-even braiding it whilst I was sleeping, was one of the ways to avoid
the pain, In the end I had just settled for ‘<i>beauty is pain</i>’ and endured the
many visits to the ghetto salons, the countless rude comments of ‘<i>your hair is
breaking</i>’ which would be comforted with product pushing from the salon manager.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">From chemical
relaxers, braids, curls, beads etc you name it I had it. To put it simply, I
hated the process of doing my hair, I did it because I wanted to look nice and
fit in, but more importantly it wasn’t worth the ‘<i>look</i>’ I would get from my
mother if I walked out the house looking a shambles. But it was the summer of 2000;
I finished junior school –when I spent six weeks without putting one single
comb or brush through my hair. It was my rebellious stage with my hair-until
September 1<sup>st</sup> rolled around and I was back in the salon chair receiving
hair related abuse and I left with a shiny forehead and a face-lift at age 11.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-size: large;">Since then, I have had
many looks and styles with my hair. Truthfully all of them have been relevant
and necessary to get me to the stage where I am at now. I never thought that in
the last year and three months that I could learn so much about myself all from
doing my hair.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyz9vMpt-WDSeResqV1TvrqnnSRVuvJx6lwA9qMpY3_XQPxgMhr4Q-AJw5Hb2Sa1q9c3vql_YMMzT2wIBWGj4atWaDBJEY6UbPvDLH1u9LPlALqejwiFYuhyphenhyphenYIFxwxyT2YB4C9uV_F4kvW/s1600/Hair+Blog+Post+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyz9vMpt-WDSeResqV1TvrqnnSRVuvJx6lwA9qMpY3_XQPxgMhr4Q-AJw5Hb2Sa1q9c3vql_YMMzT2wIBWGj4atWaDBJEY6UbPvDLH1u9LPlALqejwiFYuhyphenhyphenYIFxwxyT2YB4C9uV_F4kvW/s1600/Hair+Blog+Post+.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;">My Hair Journey; natural, relaxed, braided, weave, extensions, natural, relaxed etc </span></td></tr>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My journey started off
with my cousin telling me all about the different things she used to do her
hair and how she’s managed to get it to grow. That was at the beginning of
2013- but it wasn’t until September when I had just become fed up; living in
the suburbs and my hairdresser over 50 miles away-the constant visits, money
and time spent-I was just over it. So after my weave, I just let my hair grow
out the relaxer and since then it’s been ‘au naturelle’ all the way. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It wasn’t until I could see the physical
transformation that I had discovered that I actually knew nothing about caring
for my own REAL hair. I had become accustomed to the ritual of ‘<i>once I see a
kink, its back to the creamy crack</i>’. I cared better for my weaves and
extensions than I did my own. This I think is down to the perception of beauty
and how we as black women perceive our own beauty in the world. It’s an
on-going battle one that first has to be dealt with mentally then the rest will
fall into place (or so I have learnt)- each to their own and all that. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Even my hairdresser
didn’t seem to have a clue about extensive care for natural hair-just the
basics of washing/conditioning etc. So I turned to YouTube. I knew through
social media that there was a so called ‘<i>natural beauty moment wave</i>’ within
America, and I was keen to see what it was all about. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: large;">From years of racial
conditioning and being told that our beauty was not acceptable, it was no
surprise that hairdressers or even we ourselves would know how to care for our
locks. So it was extremely refreshing when I logged on and could see the vast
choice of videos available all on the topic of natural hair care. From
tutorials to homemade product remedies, including different textures, lengths
and styles. I loved the honesty that all of the videos shared and how it was
all about ‘<i>what works for you</i>’. </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1IFZkffP1FYfnMsOVaKutKkMay42vXieFrzEmscEBtG6depaCEPTCg9Ido6Etqw4KH5Zrp_h-G3uqzBYrOcDY2OiBPWxAga_oZZEdxhUaQbmiplDyy9PJiEzTbGYVcL6RGAACYWDewlZv/s1600/Hair+Blog+Post+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1IFZkffP1FYfnMsOVaKutKkMay42vXieFrzEmscEBtG6depaCEPTCg9Ido6Etqw4KH5Zrp_h-G3uqzBYrOcDY2OiBPWxAga_oZZEdxhUaQbmiplDyy9PJiEzTbGYVcL6RGAACYWDewlZv/s1600/Hair+Blog+Post+2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;">Au Naturelle Mel</span></td></tr>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I found the unique
qualities in my hair, different to my Caucasian friends unlike their hair-
black hair for each and every individual is different in texture, curl pattern
and even resilience. We need the core things that the earth can give us, water
and oil; and moisture, moisture and more moisture. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I discovered that I
actually can and know how to look after my hair, that it was beautiful and didn’t
see the pain as a bad thing-more that it reminded me about things in general
about life; how it’s important to work hard for the things you want, nothing
really is impossible and you have to do you. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also reminded me that you should look to what you have and
do the best you can with what you have before you suffer from silver spoon
syndrome. I learnt how to braid my own hair too-such a freeing skill.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My hair grew
surprisingly fast during the transition phase. <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/559924166145238154/" target="_blank">Now I’m at the awkward ‘miniafro stage</a>’. It’s now too long to maintain daily for me to have it out, but it’s
also quite short to do certain styles. But I will trudge through and look
forward to rocking lengths like <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/256494141248319008/" target="_blank">Solange Knowles</a> and <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/411657222164367303/" target="_blank">Diana Ross</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This has been my hair
journey so far, and I’m loving it!!! </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;">All images in this post (not including the internet links)belong to me, and may not be used/copied without permission. </span></span></div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-48850997788905572622014-10-19T21:06:00.000+01:002014-10-19T21:06:06.227+01:00The Irrecoverable Truth <div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I really and truly do love art. I feel as though my
ability to care, appreciate, understand and interpret art is a gift, as many
simply just do not have a reverence for it or even feel the need for it,
personal or otherwise. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">What I love most about art is, like it’s creative
counterparts; music, fashion etc is that <i>it’s never wrong and can never be
wrong</i>. No matter the individual or the group or even sometimes the subject- it
can’t be wrong as it’s always the expression from within. Yes it can be
shocking, offensive and even politically incorrect but it’s never wrong. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My most recent find of an exhibition online was one
that you may regard as simple or even something that you would totally pass by
and ignore. But I’m so happy I did stumble across this gem. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A photographer by the name of Nicholas Nixon, came
up with the idea to photograph his wife’s sisters every year without fail and
spanned a collection over 40 years. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKm3KpnHkgifFHqxhr7TGrB4pVK7xWTNnwUGaXu9aP-j3sxZPK6_Pn39SUrdVmJ1OZz7UhGnET33mjsjmPoV0APqUouTjzzJYerFVDr3WY-8fLRdwmIxs-kpcg7UllQKGiRisf1q3hyOQt/s1600/05thebrownsisters_ss-slide-1975+ZKLJ-jumbo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKm3KpnHkgifFHqxhr7TGrB4pVK7xWTNnwUGaXu9aP-j3sxZPK6_Pn39SUrdVmJ1OZz7UhGnET33mjsjmPoV0APqUouTjzzJYerFVDr3WY-8fLRdwmIxs-kpcg7UllQKGiRisf1q3hyOQt/s1600/05thebrownsisters_ss-slide-1975+ZKLJ-jumbo.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The first thing that hit me instantly from the
first image captured in 1975 was the sheer introduction of the separate
characters pictured. Here we don’t know their names but just by looking at
their faces ‘<i>..the hard mouthed lines, guarded poses and even the mood evoked
from the lighting..</i>’ tells us that each girl here ‘<i>is</i>’ someone individually
despite being photographed together. It’s all about independence.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95hkbsei44XhpTEY5VZZ1izhvTrfyBz8Cp73m9brOg43fk7-qabrLM-lx23T35RXo3GCx0JQbnMqwgyKjeb111UiJSO_R2TcbpYiuVT50j-nc68NxSG-w1BA7XCAeFGktsPOX-a7g48Y2/s1600/The+Brown+sisters+1980+.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj95hkbsei44XhpTEY5VZZ1izhvTrfyBz8Cp73m9brOg43fk7-qabrLM-lx23T35RXo3GCx0JQbnMqwgyKjeb111UiJSO_R2TcbpYiuVT50j-nc68NxSG-w1BA7XCAeFGktsPOX-a7g48Y2/s1600/The+Brown+sisters+1980+.png" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">As we skip on to 1980, the same girls are captured
again in the same lineup but this time it seems the two on the end (right) are
closer and are very obvious with their affection, as if to say that they both
protect each other, even though one is slightly hidden behind the face of the
other. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Being a 90s baby myself, it’s instantly my favorite
decade. One that society is trying to recapture through the mediums of fashion;
with <a href="http://shoplioness.files.wordpress.com/2014/03/tumblr_inline_mjpuuzljnb1qz4rgp.jpg?w=463&h=530" target="_blank">crop tops</a>, oversized bombers, jelly shoes and even ‘<i><a href="http://media.onsugar.com/files/2010/05/18/5/192/1922283/4477ce4805caebbd_mom-jeans.jpg" target="_blank">mom jeans</a></i>’.</span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(poetic justice anyone?)</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><i>These ladies look like the type to wear the ‘<a href="http://media.onsugar.com/files/2010/05/18/5/192/1922283/4477ce4805caebbd_mom-jeans.jpg" target="_blank">mom jeans</a>’ in stonewash blue along with a cable knit jumper in cream</i>. But it’s here
in the 1995 shot that they all feature ‘<i>softer smiles</i>’ with hardened ‘<i>features</i>’
from the process of aging, except this time all their arms are interlinked with
each other- showing that the ‘<i>need for independence</i>’ has fallen away and unity
is more noticeable in their relationship as sisters. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I especially love the compositions of all the
images. Although commented as ‘not being planned’, it all just works. The
changes in fashion are highlighted ever so slightly- I see it as incredibly
intriguing that in the 1997 shot it’s the only image that you see the women in a
formal fashion context of ‘<i>suits or power suits/workwear</i>’. Everything else is informal;
cable knit jumpers, cotton tees, jeans and summer dresses. It has showcased and
made me understand American sportswear in a whole new way. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">King Henry VIII as portrayed by Jonathan Rhys Mayers
in ‘<i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmLx-DTYxF4" target="_blank">The Tudors</a></i>’ was quoted saying “…<i>what loss to man is most irrecoverable</i>?....<i>the loss of time</i>’<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">As true as that statement is, Nicholas Nixon has
somehow managed to make a body of work that 'seems' irrelevant in this '<i>social media virtual world</i>' that we have created for ourselves</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">,and instead </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">capture the lives of four people in a very relevant way and has achieved a timeless quality.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2014/10/03/magazine/01-brown-sisters-forty-years.html?module=Search&mabReward=relbias%3Aw%2C%7B%221%22%3A%22RI%3A9%22%7D&_r=2" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Images: The full 40 picture exhibition </span><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">available to view online.</span></a></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-63689109103296107172014-08-20T23:08:00.000+01:002014-08-20T23:08:49.014+01:00The road to Success.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqZYYFKeOzCjN8Req-ACK4SP8v-Y2lQAbToO8jqdajOpWCC8DACskCWUt82VHb6CjtuAqC2tAkclDtSJfhyphenhyphenJpHTB7IFoTEazdMOejpHzfB2Qung-UX-8QC_9uxnkKc0U25RdXlsNZ3hSA/s1600/cf4632fa9ad5b8a3b96c513c791f1f07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqZYYFKeOzCjN8Req-ACK4SP8v-Y2lQAbToO8jqdajOpWCC8DACskCWUt82VHb6CjtuAqC2tAkclDtSJfhyphenhyphenJpHTB7IFoTEazdMOejpHzfB2Qung-UX-8QC_9uxnkKc0U25RdXlsNZ3hSA/s1600/cf4632fa9ad5b8a3b96c513c791f1f07.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;">Source: Raf Simons: via<a data-element-type="27" href="http://madame.lefigaro.fr/style/raf-simons-lart-de-creer-190712-270184?page=5" rel="nofollow" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #444444; display: inline !important; font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.329412) 1px 1px 0px;"> madame.lefigaro.f</a>r</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">'....<i>the road to success is always under construction</i>..'</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">To all my lovely and amazing followers, who have been so patient with me in regards to my </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">blogs-pheric hiatus. AW14 is a new season which I am greatly looking forward to!! New things are up and coming and more things that I will soon share with you all.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Meanwhile, catch up with my crazy busy life via <a href="http://instagram.com/purpletweed">instagram</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Melissa_Sam">/twitter</a>/<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/purpletweed/">pinterest</a> (always on there!!) and good old email!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><i>Fashion hugs and kisses xx </i></span></div>
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-28194451682725183642014-03-19T09:30:00.001+00:002014-03-19T09:33:46.991+00:00Shoes Galore. <p dir="ltr">Feed your shoe addiction and follow the links to some serious fashionable bargins. </p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/171272998683">http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/171272998683</a></p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/171273002194">http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/171273002194</a></p>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/171273011116">http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/171273011116</a><br>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBglBDL4mfPdpArJ1zqq737f6I9t-jui4BYwbHRVW3FU2FnmuFLFi6Zgcv59hTt1FUiHX9-Y4NiqBjLzmLdOTfmnqHSzogrux3p3p7bGI_0_GY69xEv_A7cF2fRaKGBW6teeHycRkHO38F/s1600/20140314_230550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBglBDL4mfPdpArJ1zqq737f6I9t-jui4BYwbHRVW3FU2FnmuFLFi6Zgcv59hTt1FUiHX9-Y4NiqBjLzmLdOTfmnqHSzogrux3p3p7bGI_0_GY69xEv_A7cF2fRaKGBW6teeHycRkHO38F/s640/20140314_230550.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKfNb-Vh9_nNyfOuZlx9XAOF6gDhXd2FxBBxTZxJHlIQhhTlLxHUHUK-SsawP7z8NrlA1X1ArtXZKtpRTxFCPKRc4h8gIWyGWuecjh61sLXtapVNp8pUWN3qi9GCuOF4PSxeE0AIkB26T/s1600/IMG_20140318_222418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKfNb-Vh9_nNyfOuZlx9XAOF6gDhXd2FxBBxTZxJHlIQhhTlLxHUHUK-SsawP7z8NrlA1X1ArtXZKtpRTxFCPKRc4h8gIWyGWuecjh61sLXtapVNp8pUWN3qi9GCuOF4PSxeE0AIkB26T/s640/IMG_20140318_222418.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9pXZYrpTXkIIk4yW7Pkrcr_bJdAFPWq7OvR-zq4WLeccYInelf1b64k5tGYAQUFcs3a6Yx0zAZZU3DTdYwgM4ztLimqwtySD1o1SGlp5bOb3kPzate1lY7Uuy2caPd58rUo8oG2mnH1oB/s1600/IMG_20140318_222235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9pXZYrpTXkIIk4yW7Pkrcr_bJdAFPWq7OvR-zq4WLeccYInelf1b64k5tGYAQUFcs3a6Yx0zAZZU3DTdYwgM4ztLimqwtySD1o1SGlp5bOb3kPzate1lY7Uuy2caPd58rUo8oG2mnH1oB/s640/IMG_20140318_222235.jpg"> </a> </div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-34864582001670856522014-02-13T13:34:00.001+00:002014-02-13T13:34:44.453+00:00Catch me if you can.<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hello Hello!! So the last time you herd from me, I was (accidentally) spilling my <a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/a-year-in-review.html">New Years celebration champagne</a> whilst going about in a dull and glum outlook(life). The start to the new year hasn't necessarily worked out how I had planned, but I am remaining positive and hopeful. With a crazy hectic start to my schedule it's natural that my darling blog would receive some virtual dust. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZwBsU-8h6oa1b_LD6UoB_ZZnF13IEVUp_bSNVCnMIeIGs_f_hurvdFGC9cqixYtxBFnkqbtPy4Xsw-Vx4_h9Yt26QwpY1eekFe1FrJZZS8V61OqfM-RNsLi4CWGp9ECnEhUE6ILoCDl9/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-02-13+at+13.28.07.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZwBsU-8h6oa1b_LD6UoB_ZZnF13IEVUp_bSNVCnMIeIGs_f_hurvdFGC9cqixYtxBFnkqbtPy4Xsw-Vx4_h9Yt26QwpY1eekFe1FrJZZS8V61OqfM-RNsLi4CWGp9ECnEhUE6ILoCDl9/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-02-13+at+13.28.07.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Alas, the progression of our digital society has allowed me to share my verbal musings in a photographic way via <a href="http://instagram.com/purpletweed">Instagram</a> and <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/purpletweed">Pinterest</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">With my personal instagram page expect a lot of posts featuring food, food, fashion, shopping, lifestyle a lot of random shameless selfies (always love thy self(the purple tweed mantra)), outbursts of creative and artistic loves and finds, ooh and food and everything else that fills my life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">In regards to Pinterest. It's been a digital relief for my mac memory, which is 90% full, when it comes to my fashion image library. But other than that, it's been a great way to interact with lots of like-minded individuals but also share my wishlists and interior design ideas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So do take heed to this invitation and delve into the digital abyss, which somewhere in a whole lot of coding contains my life and point of view in photographic form. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoFaf6AjOG2G5B55slXTqylLRmBLnMXrcNjdlw-8AFkJkue-ji4_UowXGBr8U0B8l4u5FSrZhOB3umHYFFFfJwmr73thPQUA2lMmroJUeIqH8W8_e1newlh6nZIc9UbyHZsJueONXr0kIr/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-02-13+at+13.26.00.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoFaf6AjOG2G5B55slXTqylLRmBLnMXrcNjdlw-8AFkJkue-ji4_UowXGBr8U0B8l4u5FSrZhOB3umHYFFFfJwmr73thPQUA2lMmroJUeIqH8W8_e1newlh6nZIc9UbyHZsJueONXr0kIr/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-02-13+at+13.26.00.png" /></a></div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-81657039559116575952013-12-29T01:27:00.001+00:002013-12-29T01:27:21.560+00:00A year in review. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKpg49wccvERTwBNAWsImJ-9V9cGO5Q9064SfhT3Sj7QewDKjfQJAgupdKzLjJu-chQtK7bOzjIv7j67Cd8dHqQytWsW6Y5a4SUpTJq3uGVeq26rt3MNOehObPn1tDTVkP1V3ZNBinBmpA/s1600/purple+tweed+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKpg49wccvERTwBNAWsImJ-9V9cGO5Q9064SfhT3Sj7QewDKjfQJAgupdKzLjJu-chQtK7bOzjIv7j67Cd8dHqQytWsW6Y5a4SUpTJq3uGVeq26rt3MNOehObPn1tDTVkP1V3ZNBinBmpA/s1600/purple+tweed+2013.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYZn8nDohGagBxuDbuacTZ-5fQ_7zjvqccKWu4lC9HuezzbyxIaQEFYeEtYUyQyib0KB5psnxjCXfAElcG95sXeS1WQWeRUJwktbksTx9BOPN0wx5mjz4y70RhJBklMJzE70h2SZcKWFVS/s1600/purple+tweed+20132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYZn8nDohGagBxuDbuacTZ-5fQ_7zjvqccKWu4lC9HuezzbyxIaQEFYeEtYUyQyib0KB5psnxjCXfAElcG95sXeS1WQWeRUJwktbksTx9BOPN0wx5mjz4y70RhJBklMJzE70h2SZcKWFVS/s1600/purple+tweed+20132.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So it's painfully evident that my priorities have been a bit misguided when it comes to my blog, but that's life and we move on. I am also very aware that around this time of year so many of us take time out to make online posts about how '2014 is my year' blah blah...but really like Christmas is only just a day, the new year is also just a day away...Yes I know- I have become a bit of a pessimist in my youth, but I think that's just the evidence of reality splashing me in the face. But on from my gloomy outlook, I thought I'd enjoy just one rare moment of online vanity and look back at some moments in the year of 2013 that will be vivid in my memory for many more months and years to come.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Going to the sunshine state of Florida and stopping through the city that truly never sleeps and meeting the man who always makes it wonder if it will "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmepADgNXfo">ever be cool</a>" aka Mr Brian McKnight was one of my highlights this year. As a Brit one is usually depraved from the warmth and sight of the sun, but this year I had the best of both summers- British heat wave temperatures were practically the daily normal temp in Miami, so with what has been a mild winter (in regards to the fact that it hasn't snowed) I cannot complain.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">As a creative I am extremely experiencing new levels of passion within the <a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/read-all-about-it.html">creative/fashion industry</a> and my newest love has been exploring the beauty industry and falling down the <a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.co.uk/2013/06/emerald-passions.html">rabbit hole of make up</a>...as I'm sure you know <a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.co.uk/2013/08/beauty-box-review-part-2-cosmetics.html">I.AM.A.MAC.GIRL.</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.co.uk/2011/07/all-vogue-and-no-power.html">Food.Drink</a>. <a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/the-galaxy-at-my-feet.html">Shoes</a>. <a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/pick-me-ups-fringes-and-whole-lot-of.html">Music</a>. That is how I have regarded the 'culture' aspect of my life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My top 8 albums of the year (random number I know) are below....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-Drake-Nothing was the same-truly the rap/hip-hop genre will never be the same</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-Beyonce-The Visual album- if you want to tell the world 'fuck u...' then this is how you do it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-TGT- Three Kings- these three kings of R&B are blessing us in every way. full stop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-Brandy- Two Eleven- relationship love letters in the form of music.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-Fantasia- Side Effects of You- another lyrically real album but easy to vibe too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-R. Kelly- Black panties- twerk/grind/buss it whatever it's R.Kelly</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-Rudimental-Home- all I will say is that my neighbours must be happy that I'm moving as my walls have reverberated this album at least twice a week.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Justin Timberlake- if you want to know how to do REAL proper music that is more than air-play worthy then this is how you do it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There are loads more to add to the list but I wanted to keep this post semi-short (coughs)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And after what has been a roller coaster of year for me, in every way I am grateful for all my experiences and thankful to God for my friends and family who have been with me throughout an interesting year!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I would love to know what your highs/lows have been throughout 2013.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Happy New Year...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">(</span><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">spills her glass...guess some things don't change hehe</span>)</span></div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-2226516978438093422013-10-19T23:50:00.003+01:002013-10-19T23:50:36.660+01:00Picasso Baby.<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My current situations and my hectic schedule these days only sees me enjoy art, it seems from the glaring screen of my i-pad or desktop. Not to disregard that as a form of viewing art but I really miss the interaction and exchange that happens when you say, go to a gallery or exhibition. Having said all that it does make me extremely grateful that I can connect online and still enjoy the art scene from a wider platform. So you can only imagine just how I excited and inspired I felt after discovering this little beauty via Mr. Shawn Carter aka Jay-Z. I don't know how exactly to articulate my views on this but basically it's a little something like this... <iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="720" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/xMG2oNqBy-Y?rel=0" width="1280"></iframe> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">'<i>This video is a pretentiously cool performance but it's also not pretentiously cool at the exact same time</i>" A bit like the material from his latest album, it's somewhat 'there' but also misses the mark as well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But overall I do love this video and the song too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><i>What are your views and would you even <u>consider</u> this to be art?</i></span></div>
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-90040528910564379992013-08-17T19:42:00.001+01:002013-08-17T19:42:37.532+01:00Fashions Lovechild. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">As much as we try to ignore it and try and stick to what we know. The Fashion Industry and the Internet are so intertwined that its now viewed as being 'stylishly ignorant' to remain behind and not move forward with the times, and how is this made true? Well both business and consumers have made this true. The supply to demand rate is increasing daily as business that trade online respond to feeding the consumer habit of shopping online. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">We are all to blame really. With this being the case it's only natural that HTML coders would build socially interactive sites with bloggers, fashion lovers and shopping addicts being the core users of these new sites, with hopes of them becoming the fashion equivalent of Twitter or Facebook. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4HJavs6oLMQCS9Ocqw7zmEo7oA6RvYTU68oyghAyaXhyphenhyphenNW6PXTedpfL1i7Fmhhdzbf8MWxH5FWg2QH6fsl-McskKN0pWtDv5WA_q39Ej48zFGfyDyxbp26YFYXnDgxsjlftIRRIQMRhcW/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-08-09+at+06.57.23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4HJavs6oLMQCS9Ocqw7zmEo7oA6RvYTU68oyghAyaXhyphenhyphenNW6PXTedpfL1i7Fmhhdzbf8MWxH5FWg2QH6fsl-McskKN0pWtDv5WA_q39Ej48zFGfyDyxbp26YFYXnDgxsjlftIRRIQMRhcW/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-08-09+at+06.57.23.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I for one used to stay in the dark, purely because I didn't want to become a social site addict and be on every new thing, but I love it when I find sites I love and help to make my research and inspirational process that much easier. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Introducing <a href="http://fffflash.com/graph/blogs/13325/">fffflash.com</a>. Like <a href="http://pinterest.com/purpletweed/collection-inspirations/" target="_blank">Pintrest</a>, it works on a 'pin' basis, however it also allows you to shop items that you or others have both liked or 'pinned'.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The reason why I love it is because it has opened me up to a whole bunch of underground/new and upcoming designers that I probably otherwise would not have discovered on sites like style.com, and unlike <a href="http://pinterest.com/purpletweed/collection-inspirations/" target="_blank">Pintrest</a>, its specifically fashion only.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I stumbled upon it by accident on google. Good old google! </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOmIhe0f3urwXuEElGxEGz6PDNKDuSHy7NvjV57wjFq_tGRNBLxETRnvajPy_9rwtlCLD8zRg3-POHnVzRSzfUH1Ce-E9Cvyn2K1ec-wGhCLz5m_65Dmk4QNB_CB8f5ehovZW1OoWoCLm_/s1600/Fashion+Lovechild.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOmIhe0f3urwXuEElGxEGz6PDNKDuSHy7NvjV57wjFq_tGRNBLxETRnvajPy_9rwtlCLD8zRg3-POHnVzRSzfUH1Ce-E9Cvyn2K1ec-wGhCLz5m_65Dmk4QNB_CB8f5ehovZW1OoWoCLm_/s1600/Fashion+Lovechild.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;">AW13 Cut and Paste Job by Purple Tweed<br />Images from style.com<br />Vivienne Westwood Red Label AW13<br />Vivienne Westwood AW13<br />Tom Ford AW13 </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The signing up process is what also made me smile too. Turns out that according to my sartorial DNA, I am a fashion lovechild of fashion designers Vivienne Westwood and Tom Ford, talk about fabulous or what! Up above is my fashion DNA analysis, so this post has been inspired by my fashion parents. I've digitally crafted what I would wear/or how I would dress according to the latest AW13 collections using my DNA analysis and style chromosome as a guideline.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Elegant, formal, couture, pop, edgy, rock chic, girly, minimalistic.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><i>What do you think of my Fashion DNA based wardrobe???</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><i>And Who are your fashion parents on <a href="http://fffflash.com/">FFFFlash.com</a>???</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Find my <a href="http://fffflash.com/graph/blogs/13325/">profile page badge</a> below at the bottom of my blog.</span></div>
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-42120079668217480352013-08-09T05:45:00.000+01:002013-08-12T20:12:46.197+01:00No new clothes no no new.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;">All pieces from<a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/TopCategoriesDisplay?storeId=12556&catalogId=33057#slide1" target="_blank"> Topshop.com</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">In the words of Dj Khaled and Drake....<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9OWiH9XtV4" target="_blank">No new clothes no no new clothes no no!</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I'm on a clothing buying ban until October! :-(</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This has been enforced by myself, in order to continue the motivation to get my <a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.com/2013/06/and-god-created-womanaw14.html" target="_blank">collection</a> finished. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">However that doesn't stop me from spending time supposedly looking for inspiration (yeah right) on Topshop.com looking and refreshing the 'new in' page. Their upcoming trends for AW13 have absolutely soooo many lush pieces and alot of the trends include texture and alot of feminine touches. These days I've been inundated with a love for wedge shoes. I don't need them as most of the ones on sale are for summer, and I already own like 3 recently new pairs for ages that have never been worn (forgive me oh fellow shoe lovers out there, remember recovering shoeaholic and all etc lol) but the shoe angels out there keep throwing my attention towards them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Impractical for the upcoming cold season, I have to remind myself that treking to work in the snow was not fun last time and I wore chelsea boots, so how I think that wedges would be any better...I must be crazy...mmm but driving in wedges can be done hehehe!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I'm not one for big massive prints and colours but the shock setting mustard shoes and scarf are totally nothing short of beautiful. The checks are incredibly versatile and a great way to do librarian chic but with a sexy twist by adding the green stilettos. And we all know that if I don't make myself a bangin' coat/jacket then this super gorgeous check wool boyfriend coatigan will be my next autumn coat !</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Don't get me started on the jewellery. No that I also work for that department, I WILL be getting new pieces whether my bank manager likes it or not! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Looking forward to adding sequins to my daily wardrobe looks, it's not everyday I can dress like Cinderella or my style icon Diana Princess of Wales but I can add some of their glamour to some simple basics like a pencil skirt, will def make one because a-line and my luscious hips just ain't gonna work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But all in all I'm looking forward to what AW13 has to offer on the high street and more so more excited for my collection too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;">Images from Topshop.com</span></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-22813445583120057232013-08-09T04:19:00.001+01:002013-08-09T07:59:25.233+01:00Beauty Box Review: Part 2 Cosmetics <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">As part of my '<a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.com/2013/08/purple-tweeds-summer-special.html" target="_blank">Purple Tweed Summer Special</a>' I thought I'd include a beauty post on how to still keep your face/skin looking fabulous whilst the temperatures cause you to sweat buckets! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This knowledge has come from experience and from hours of watching various beauty youtubers show the world how to apply make-up for warmer climates. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Now this isn't a '<i>how to get that sun kissed skin look</i>' type of post. No, this is just showing you some of the products I've purchased in order for me to still maintain my make-up routine even in temperatures above 70F!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The two main products I will be reviewing will be both from MAC (sorry guys-I can't help myself)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><i><u><b>Face and Body Foundation in C7</b></u></i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV01RcLk3-9bXdgSoz00flWObMX7hGfmZpSFZll30Bz2PCUW2R7yfLnJIBpFrm0Tmt4vSRiqL_36aBZr0H9AHsnXfRuNpULiDdRusPWD2wxbagDnv_HXFnieTxlz93zgAByciN2kw8xr82/s1600/IMG_5094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV01RcLk3-9bXdgSoz00flWObMX7hGfmZpSFZll30Bz2PCUW2R7yfLnJIBpFrm0Tmt4vSRiqL_36aBZr0H9AHsnXfRuNpULiDdRusPWD2wxbagDnv_HXFnieTxlz93zgAByciN2kw8xr82/s640/IMG_5094.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Starting with the primer, I am really impressed with this product. It is easy to apply, non greasy which is great for me as I have combination skin, and when your on holiday in seriously hot temps the last thing you want is for your primer to be sliding everywhere because your make-up simply has no chance of staying in place at all! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">As it is MAC it is on the pricey side at £20.50 but you get what you pay for and more as you don't have to apply alot. However the way I view it, foundation without primer is like tea without sugar; sometimes its okay, but every now and then you need a bit of sweetness in your life :-) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I'll give it a <b>8/10</b>, it would be 10/10 but I haven't shopped around for other primers and my view is slightly bias as my foundations are from MAC also so you know, like two peas in a pod! Lol. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Purchasing a lighter based foundation (in terms of formula) was a necessity for my 'holiday make-up routine' to be a success. I j'adore my Studio Fix Fluid but it's thick creamy consistency is something that would soon annoy me and the last thing you want is to feel the weight of your foundation. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Although, at first, I was sceptical about just how 'light' this foundation is, as it is sheer to light coverage so you need to have fabulously clear skin otherwise I suggest you be prepared to do some mixing and blending with another foundation in order to achieve the coverage you desire.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A little tip is that, if you already use MAC foundations it's best to mention the colour of that foundation to the make-up assistant who is serving you. This makes it much easier and faster at helping them help you to find the right colour and shade for your complexion. When I purchased mine, I was in duty free so the bottle size was perfect to fit into my hand luggage and just the right amount, as it's not going to be my main foundation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">All in all the colour selection process was quick and easy, the shade just blended in with my skin and the overall application is just really natural, which I love. It's light and a little goes a long way. I personally used my flat foundation brush in a '<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwmFG0EGs7A" target="_blank">stippling</a>' motion, the bristles of this particular brush are sparse and not so tightly packed together, so it allows the product to spread more in a way that makes it even for me. Next time however I would like to use the <a href="https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1166&bih=611&q=beauty+sponge+blender&oq=beauty+sponge&gs_l=img.1.1.0l2j0i5l4j0i24l4.641.3654.0.6234.15.13.1.1.1.0.118.1294.8j5.13.0....0...1ac.1.24.img..0.15.1302.5iaxSWJm4ig#facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=COcbLVmetUj-HM%3A%3BfCY1C2_xLEsLlM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.makeupgeek.com%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252FBeauty_Blender1.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.makeupgeek.com%252Freviews%252Fproduct-smackdowns%252Fproduct-smackdown-beauty-blender-vs-sonia-kashuk-sponge%252F%3B309%3B432" target="_blank">beauty blender sponge</a> (see what all the hype is about) and see if the 'naturally flawless finish' that I achieved can be improved by applying it with a different utensil. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">When I used it first time on holiday, it was 30 degrees with no breeze whatsoever! My make-up stayed on all day, with only having to blot once! I even forget that I had put it on, that I nearly forgot to take it off before I went to bed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I really like this foundation and would probably begin to use it on a daily basis as opposed to my Sleek BB Cream, as it is soo lovely and light but still gives off that naturally perfected look.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><b>9/10</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6C5aW_b1qIBsVovUMMVTKx6EGIJ3aZ7ROUZKIvYHl1SlftD50XR8XaQLwh7hyphenhyphenv8lbNk9f9DX-VmxRJm8BMkyxFNm9LJCtMtLBAmhx4-Yv1B1YMlZA23dOLpquk__LQzTOS_1nAAM-j9VT/s1600/IMG_4942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6C5aW_b1qIBsVovUMMVTKx6EGIJ3aZ7ROUZKIvYHl1SlftD50XR8XaQLwh7hyphenhyphenv8lbNk9f9DX-VmxRJm8BMkyxFNm9LJCtMtLBAmhx4-Yv1B1YMlZA23dOLpquk__LQzTOS_1nAAM-j9VT/s400/IMG_4942.JPG" width="380" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">As you can see in the picture I was going for a natural look, so my concealer coverage was little to non and I didn't really 'set' my foundation either but just applied bronzer and polished my brows and finished the look with a creamy nude lipstick. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFb4eCIaXZ_yUFZ-AJBmSndz5V61GxqRZ3PRpvApE5DDkWqus64ELdTl6vpiamFIPtZu-zbHJo5HacpLbErJzBMfMFlsBY67IyM6IPzfwMrz5Pjgr80C3mOnhKFq2F7ygEre3HB8Ubnlmu/s1600/IMG_5103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFb4eCIaXZ_yUFZ-AJBmSndz5V61GxqRZ3PRpvApE5DDkWqus64ELdTl6vpiamFIPtZu-zbHJo5HacpLbErJzBMfMFlsBY67IyM6IPzfwMrz5Pjgr80C3mOnhKFq2F7ygEre3HB8Ubnlmu/s640/IMG_5103.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;">L-R<br />MAC-Russian Red, Revlon-Mink, Revlon-Pink in the afternoon, Sleek-Heartbreaker</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxO-7-WR-OJMEpOpF63FA4reRl61xhJw_pYa2iZ4k6R8OBI6B_LbRC3VnpE5vnW5YL1YWL9FbMvuRLJD8HibjaTgjEXNPWDILUnPC-zZf9B1m5J7CWtmjDrHEcwcNDj4MKAaC2EQdbFVU4/s1600/IMG_5108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxO-7-WR-OJMEpOpF63FA4reRl61xhJw_pYa2iZ4k6R8OBI6B_LbRC3VnpE5vnW5YL1YWL9FbMvuRLJD8HibjaTgjEXNPWDILUnPC-zZf9B1m5J7CWtmjDrHEcwcNDj4MKAaC2EQdbFVU4/s640/IMG_5108.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;">Sleek Blush by 3-L-R<br />Crochet, Guipure,Chantilly</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My other recent beauty purchases over the last three months have included the following;</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">my <b>first EVER MAC</b> lipstick in Russian red <i><span style="color: red;">**j'adore**</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Revlon super lustrous lipstick in mink and pink in the afternoon</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Sleek true colour matte lipstick in heartbreaker </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Real Techniques foundation brush(which is actually perfect for under-eye concealer)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Real Techniques Powder brush</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Real Techniques Domed eye-shadow brush </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Sleek i-Divine Palette in Au Naturel.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Sleek Blush by 3</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">L'oreal Voluminous mascara</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">NYC Sky High mascara</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">L'oreal super-fine liquid eyeliner </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">H&M Double-sided eye brush (so versatile and perfect to carry in your 'all day make up bag')</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So, yes these have been the updates to my beauty box in the last 2-3 months or so, <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/" target="_blank">tweet</a> me of your latest purchases, and let me know what other things help your summer beauty regime go without a hitch!</span></div>
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Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-18551857360822217562013-08-05T05:14:00.003+01:002013-08-05T05:14:53.508+01:00Purple Tweed's Summer Special. <div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0sJBNyMaK3pidcrkMsn3hF41vR3SWBuCk6FWmke72-XNWoTIfemZXqoBTrzN1_JpU7CDHBMGSTERvm7mH9qXfBIOPkpNN7y786uljyv1-QaFlzD_6T1eC73OSwZqa9yYUej7kP8YVn39U/s1600/1975_May_Jerry_Hall_by_Norman_Parkinson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0sJBNyMaK3pidcrkMsn3hF41vR3SWBuCk6FWmke72-XNWoTIfemZXqoBTrzN1_JpU7CDHBMGSTERvm7mH9qXfBIOPkpNN7y786uljyv1-QaFlzD_6T1eC73OSwZqa9yYUej7kP8YVn39U/s1600/1975_May_Jerry_Hall_by_Norman_Parkinson.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;">Jerry Hall Photographed by Norman Parkinson for Vogue 1975<br /><a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?start=126&sa=X&hl=en&biw=1166&bih=611&tbs=isz:l&tbm=isch&tbnid=BkzoAHYPr2I2IM:&imgrefurl=http://postimg.org/image/68uzgi9qd/&docid=pvTKYgPZfYgTxM&imgurl=http://s2.postimg.org/f3vtr0yix/1975_May_Jerry_Hall_by_Norman_Parkinson.jpg&w=1200&h=1734&ei=Mib_Ua2ZHI_S9ATV3oHoDQ&zoom=1&ved=1t:3588,r:35,s:100,i:109&iact=rc&page=7&tbnh=197&tbnw=136&ndsp=21&tx=36&ty=67" target="_blank">Source</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Some might argue that summer is strictly June, July and August, but within the UK summer really is any day that the sun shines and you don't have to leave your house with any form of outerwear like a jacket or coat. However this year we have been extremely blessed with lush sunshine that make having a convertible car and taking it for a drive down some country lane so very worthwhile. Temperatures of 28/30degrees are all well and good but dressing for such is not always easy. So the next few posts will be a holiday special, from tips on packing for your holiday, to how to make the most out of the pieces you have work for you whilst at home and the key pieces to update your summer style.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So hopefully this will be useful to some of you out there, and any tips or comments you have please feel free to comment or tweet me!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">First off we start with the nude dress. Now now, I know your thinking that nude can be a bit of a blase colour and not one that suits everyone... and although some of those statements may be true. I am here to challenge you to make you a firm believer that nude in <a href="https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1166&bih=611&q=50+shades+of+nude&oq=50+shades+of+nude&gs_l=img.3...1037.5146.0.5330.21.8.1.12.7.0.180.694.7j1.8.0....0...1ac.1.23.img..7.14.659.y3tgycGgAkM#hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&sa=1&q=different+shades+of+nude&oq=different+shades+of+nude&gs_l=img.3...5846.13650.0.13880.32.16.4.12.15.0.119.1247.15j1.16.0....0...1c.1.23.img..6.26.897.AGlO1hDKYCY&bav=on.2,or.r_cp.r_qf.&bvm=bv.50165853%2Cd.eWU%2Cpv.xjs.s.en_US.seW1cfrvSKg.O&fp=46e27c871553d2a1&biw=1166&bih=611&facrc=_&imgrc=vUONppJ16AlLmM%3A%3Bo7fmFBzn86-r6M%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.wwd.com%252Fimages%252Fprocessed%252Fwwd%252F2012%252F01%252F30%252Fportrait%252F01-large%252Fnude.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.wwd.com%252Fmedia-news%252Fdigital%252Fa-different-take-on-nude-5583540%3B300%3B450" target="_blank">various shades</a> (because we are not all one flesh-tone) is the ultimate colour/shade in order to do chic summer dressing. White isn't flattering to many of us but nude (<a href="https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1166&bih=611&q=50+shades+of+nude&oq=50+shades+of+nude&gs_l=img.3...1037.5146.0.5330.21.8.1.12.7.0.180.694.7j1.8.0....0...1ac.1.23.img..7.14.659.y3tgycGgAkM#hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&sa=1&q=different+shades+of+nude&oq=different+shades+of+nude&gs_l=img.3...5846.13650.0.13880.32.16.4.12.15.0.119.1247.15j1.16.0....0...1c.1.23.img..6.26.897.AGlO1hDKYCY&bav=on.2,or.r_cp.r_qf.&bvm=bv.50165853%2Cd.eWU%2Cpv.xjs.s.en_US.seW1cfrvSKg.O&fp=46e27c871553d2a1&biw=1166&bih=611&facrc=_&imgrc=vUONppJ16AlLmM%3A%3Bo7fmFBzn86-r6M%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.wwd.com%252Fimages%252Fprocessed%252Fwwd%252F2012%252F01%252F30%252Fportrait%252F01-large%252Fnude.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.wwd.com%252Fmedia-news%252Fdigital%252Fa-different-take-on-nude-5583540%3B300%3B450" target="_blank">creme/coffee/almond</a>..you get the gist)is your new summer best friend where colours/shades are concerned.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">As with everything in ones wardrobe it all comes down to <a href="https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1166&bih=611&q=different+body+shaped+women&oq=different+body+shaped+women&gs_l=img.3...627.8584.0.8848.29.14.1.14.10.0.81.879.14.14.0....0...1ac.1.23.img..8.21.703.dURJExsoZGE#facrc=_&imgrc=ipXsOWKeEJIVoM%3A%3BF9Nvq8fiXSPjuM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fthe16thbar.com%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252F2012%252F01%252Fbodyshapes.png%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fthe16thbar.com%252Fwhat-body-shape-are-you%252F%3B1350%3B967" target="_blank"><b>CUT</b> and <b>SHAPE</b></a>. Choose the right one for you in order to make this colour work. This semi-oversized style is from <a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-dresses?resetFilters=true#product=903000060471" target="_blank">Whistles</a>. This dress is great because it's very versatile. It's voluminous shape means it can be cinched in nicely with a chic belt for work or a nice scarf for the weekends etc. The pockets allow it to work from day through to night and the length allows you to look business-like whilst at work but still combat the summer temperatures.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A glitzy rose gold ombre sequin kimono with tone matching Jimmy Choos, amp up the glamour decibels and is easy to wear to a wedding or just out for a stylish night out with a glass of rose to boot!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Taking this dress to work is truly simple, using tailored pieces like blazers or waistcoats with either a little bit of print or in various colours from taupe to ivory, help retain the femininity of this dress but is completely board-room proof.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This dress on the weekend or for those casual evenings only requires a lovely ballet flat in a pop of colour and a cutesy necklace and your good to go! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.whistles.co.uk/fcp/categorylist/dept/clothing-dresses?resetFilters=true#product=903000060471" target="_blank">Dress-Whistles</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/362839" target="_blank">Jimmy Choos</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&langId=-1&storeId=12556&catalogId=33057&parent_categoryId=208491&categoryId=277012&productId=11251775" target="_blank">Ombre Sequin Kimono-Topshop</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?beginIndex=0&viewAllFlag=&langId=-1&storeId=12556&catalogId=33057&parent_categoryId=208491&categoryId=277012&productId=11529161" target="_blank">Ballet flats-Topshop</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Love-Letter-Charm-Necklace/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3050775&cid=4175&Rf-400=53&Rf1011=4315&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=204&sort=-1&clr=Gold" target="_blank">Necklace-ASOS</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?searchTerm=blazer&storeId=12556&productId=11241033&urlRequestType=Base&categoryId=&langId=-1&productIdentifier=product&catalogId=33057" target="_blank">Blazer-Topshop</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-SKITTLE-Pointed-Heels/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=2989170&WT.ac=rec_viewed" target="_blank">Shoes-ASOS</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Images; asos.com, net-a-porter.com, topshop.com, whistles.co.uk</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">**I have not been paid or endorsed by the above brands.</span></span></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-51652299289573197032013-07-08T23:15:00.002+01:002013-07-08T23:15:53.814+01:00Read all about it.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKv_MWv5l3LdLWgk8QItm7102YROx6I8SWmAIX_QGb8rCwXxdSSL38Raq2iwKF2qYtXZZ3VLwXtcBiSpLAlbmJOxytGQZGd5bTBGsF7hhsiQzaSzhKYTqsQZNuupJzhESFC7hF6wtBNSf/s1600/Folio+preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKv_MWv5l3LdLWgk8QItm7102YROx6I8SWmAIX_QGb8rCwXxdSSL38Raq2iwKF2qYtXZZ3VLwXtcBiSpLAlbmJOxytGQZGd5bTBGsF7hhsiQzaSzhKYTqsQZNuupJzhESFC7hF6wtBNSf/s1600/Folio+preview.jpg" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Just in case you wonder what it is exactly I get up to when I'm not babysitting, working, drinking tea, sorting out my life (aka tidying up my studio), and or having fits of laughter over some hilarious moments in life aka memes and catching up with my sister then by all means please feed your curiosity by clicking on my <a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.co.uk/p/portfolio_29.html" target="_blank">portfolio page</a>! </span></div>
<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-41042453755520012972013-06-13T12:00:00.000+01:002013-06-13T19:38:50.601+01:00Emerald Passions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">As I delve deeper and
deeper into research in order to gain knowledge, I find my naïve self-falling further
and further down the rabbit’s hole that is make-up. I’ve always been in love
with it and wanted to work with make-up. During my spring clean I found scribes
of goals and plans that my teenage 13 year old self had written down and it was
listed within this order; ‘fashion, make-up and hair’! And like with everything
else, as you begin to learn something and gain understanding, you workout your
likes and dislikes and the little tricks of the trade that enable you to
achieve the results you desire. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make-up, believe it or not has taught me to be more patient
and more thorough with everything in my life. I am also a strong believer that
make-up should not be used to hide who you really are, but only enhance the
amazing natural beauty that god gave you, so wearing bright colours and
shocking shades really wasn’t my thing. I was especially put off when I would
see women walking around like they had literally done their make up in the
dark- not a good look-believe me!</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDyev5H2m6c7-lxJBjPmzlZZm7e9OUBmKb8sNiOEgHlUYQDcF2YDNxdH9ywBnf7_nJ4SzH3ElQxTh_751PK4hosR1pzVFmcH-yEx7KFr3yc3v4XIRAYK0gJoEurf_EJYG1wMnanDJK8v1/s1600/Beauty+box+Emerald+Passions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrDyev5H2m6c7-lxJBjPmzlZZm7e9OUBmKb8sNiOEgHlUYQDcF2YDNxdH9ywBnf7_nJ4SzH3ElQxTh_751PK4hosR1pzVFmcH-yEx7KFr3yc3v4XIRAYK0gJoEurf_EJYG1wMnanDJK8v1/s1600/Beauty+box+Emerald+Passions.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"> However fortunately or
unfortunately I have fallen in love with the <a href="http://www.sleekmakeup.com/eyes/shadows/i-divine" target="_blank">Sleek ‘i-divine’ eye-shadow palettes</a>. In total I have about 5/13 of the different palettes they have
created. The colours are rich, intense and FULL of pigment and they last with
or without primer! So I finally decided to take the unnecessary fear out of wearing
bright shades and sit down in front my mirror and just practise, and this is
what I have come up with. Inspired by <a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/index.aspx?pg=21055" target="_blank">Pantones colour of the year</a> I call it</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">‘</span><i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Emerald Passions</span></i><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">’ <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">For this look I have
only just done my eyebrows and eyes, not a full face so please excuse the pores
and shiny face lol<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><i><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Tools Used;</span></i></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Eyeshadow brush x2<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Crease Brush<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Blending brush<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Eyeliner brush<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Baby wipes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Sleek ‘i-Divine’
eyeshadow palette in; </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Ultra matte<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Storm</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Au Naturel</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Mascara</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I’ve enjoyed putting
this together and I hope you like it, and if you wish to see more posts like
this, let me know! <a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.co.uk/p/contact-me.html" target="_blank">Comment, email</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/Melissa_Sam" target="_blank">tweet me</a> :-) </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-68665718207888189842013-06-08T20:07:00.002+01:002013-06-08T20:07:53.867+01:00And God Created Woman...AW14<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Now I know that I stated that if my posts became sparse and few in-between that it was due to my <a href="http://purpletweed.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/the-finer-things-in-life.html" target="_blank">collection</a>, I also mentioned that it was easy for me to totally disregard my commitment to my decision, but the truth is there is absolutely no point in running away from the things you love doing, because eventually it will catch up with you and or you'll live to regret it. And in the words of one Aubrey Drake Graham, '<i>you only live onc</i>e' I'm not one for regrets, so here goes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Collating my research really has been 22 years in the making hehe, and it's been extremely exhilarating and soo very therapeutic coming home from a stressful environment at work, to only throw myself deep into fabrics, texture, music, art, culture, food *late night snacks* :-) to unearth my creative juices in order to form my moodboard. The below images is what I call my 'developing moodboard'. It's the moodbaord that I am using in the 'design development stage', whereby I begin sketching, drawing and sampling different textile and sewing techniques. It's ever changing and growing, but I will post the final one as soon as I have completed my samples.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Entitled '.<a href="http://pinterest.com/purpletweed/collection-inspirations/" target="_blank">.</a></span><i style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/purpletweed/collection-inspirations/" target="_blank">and God created Woman</a></span></i><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: large;">'. This autumn winter collection is all about the woman; the exquisite beauty of the female form, the political and religious standings we have within our societies and so much more. I'm in love with the ever complex juxtaposition of hard and soft, feminine and masculine, this mixed in with alot of 90s references (as I am a nineties baby), fused with a British/Zimbabwean heritage but with an ultra chic modern urbanite aesthetic, from me to you I present MVSS</span><span style="font-size: x-small;">©</span><span style="font-size: large;">. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This is the link to my<a href="http://pinterest.com/purpletweed/collection-inspirations/" target="_blank"> pintrest</a> page, which has more images, and this is the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL57NYXroMHpWWOxawzElY1Y-snGNS87D4" target="_blank">mini youtube playlist</a> I have created to accompany this post. Just a few tracks that have inspired me through my research. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1rJKJi6YcIkEhjwBrMm-OGrVwcdswrIgVsm8gbIDKMg-S0TALGNUWA7BYzxayaFGO6hEFvYEDeX-87O5VFRqzSBbQo9fFJ6jXjhmNWFxCKv1mKE8f1lCdFX8V582Enbp3gWLjk-hgIFNR/s1600/MVSS+Designs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1rJKJi6YcIkEhjwBrMm-OGrVwcdswrIgVsm8gbIDKMg-S0TALGNUWA7BYzxayaFGO6hEFvYEDeX-87O5VFRqzSBbQo9fFJ6jXjhmNWFxCKv1mKE8f1lCdFX8V582Enbp3gWLjk-hgIFNR/s1600/MVSS+Designs.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSxLU5oU1bHBEiyQvEDNjgtyRQ2LMp4_fdy-ohCSJboJCKhpv8txMZQ0JZF-o1M_z-INhvVYpQSTKwSTiUojwrvXXTrH7E7hlo-GSYu3KTonO0GKGxh9O02QOInkci2KW2TZouvtJb5SG4/s1600/Fifty+shades+of+grey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSxLU5oU1bHBEiyQvEDNjgtyRQ2LMp4_fdy-ohCSJboJCKhpv8txMZQ0JZF-o1M_z-INhvVYpQSTKwSTiUojwrvXXTrH7E7hlo-GSYu3KTonO0GKGxh9O02QOInkci2KW2TZouvtJb5SG4/s1600/Fifty+shades+of+grey.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6017825761684392051.post-56515665377260033442013-04-28T21:13:00.001+01:002013-05-12T18:35:51.218+01:00Spring Clean Part 2.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFLGbVx0587zf42GMRELmG8o19VypCwOhMYNQvUMmpt8I1vYiPaevgDXEfeVvmHeAy4v4XvcLyQOd-Kl1E7dB2pH3zcM63cR8mrnzpR9-gnhdxLj_NIulO8-2TR99SPowW5PZ4W87eO90i/s1600/Spring+clean+part+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFLGbVx0587zf42GMRELmG8o19VypCwOhMYNQvUMmpt8I1vYiPaevgDXEfeVvmHeAy4v4XvcLyQOd-Kl1E7dB2pH3zcM63cR8mrnzpR9-gnhdxLj_NIulO8-2TR99SPowW5PZ4W87eO90i/s1600/Spring+clean+part+2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/171039665987?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649" target="_blank">Get Shopping!!</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This here is the second and final part of my 'spring clean' posts. As you know I am an avid shoe lover and I own more than the physical space of my room/studio will allow, plus I just have some pairs I have never got round to wearing. So here is the link to my <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/171032066620?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649" target="_blank">ebay page</a>- grab a bargain! Alot of fabulous styles for spring summer and a few winter wardrobe pieces too, some of them are not yet available until 29/04/13 so do keep your eyes peeled. If you do win- tweet me what you've got! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">#SpringCleanWinPT.</span></div>
Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17871598246792183231noreply@blogger.com2