Bee Waits For No One

knit one, kill one

2012-03-02T20:13:00.003Z

Sometimes my favourite things have a way of just coming together and creeping in to my life. Knitwear designer Katherine Brown's short fashion film "Knit one, Kill one" is pretty much one of those things.

Knit One, Kill One from Andy Brown on Vimeo.

The Twin Peaks inspired film explores the idea that knitters and serial killers have shared behavioural patterns. While specialising in knitwear, Brown cites that knitting in fact drove her "nuts" so this exploratory film is a beautifully stylised dark look at an often over looked craft. I'm definitely hoping to see more of her stuff in the future.

jane gowans - geology rocks

2012-03-02T14:19:00.000Z

My love affair with the work of Dundee based jeweller Jane Gowans is well documented. Her matchstick collection for me is among some of my favourite contemporary jewellery design. I'm a classicist when it comes to my jewellery and Gowans has found that sweet spot between modern and timelessness that most designers strive for. Her new collection "Geology Rocks" launching at Black Box jewellery tonight retains that elegance, crafted using new innovative technology and traditional hand crafting methods. Dark oxidised silver and gold predominate this collection - which makes me think someone has been reading my memos. The pictures I've seen of the collection so far show a very sophisticated glamour, which doesn't feel forced. The collection is inspired by naturally occurring forms in nature and can be felt through the designs, and makes me a little bit sad I don't wear earrings.

Jane Gowans new collection "Geology Rocks" will be available at Black Box Boutique in Edinburgh from the 2nd of March. Still love Gowans and not Edinburgh based? Visit her website.

Blythswood Rainforest Facial

2012-02-28T17:10:00.001Z

2 weeks of late nights, canapes and cocktails. I make it sound like such a chore don't I? While there are elements of working with in Glasgow Film Festival that all sound glamorous and fantastic - dead skin, festival lurgy and little sleep is not. Post festival I look like the worst version of myself. My best attempts to go to the gym, eat well and generally act like a real human being fell by the wayside in favour of picking up rails in taxis,making nice with pop ups and a lot of printing. The offer of trying out the new iLA Rainforest facial post festival sounded completely dreamy.
As always the staff at the Blythswood were nothing but helpful, and I had a good steam down in the thermal experience before my facial. I was greeted by Sally, who really I cannot praise enough. She was attentive, informative and was really put at ease by her presence. She really was wonderful and you could tell she was passionate about the treatment as she gave me a history of iLA and the whole spiritual aspect behind the treatment as she washed my feet (apparently to get rid of any negativity.) It was all shaman woman and amazonian jungles, which sounds lovely but a bit flowery for my taste. The organic nature of the treatment and the use of natural products however was something I found really interesting, and would love to find out more about the actual properties of the oils in the treatments and how they affect your body.
The facial itself is unique in the fact it's suitable for pregnant woman (even in first trimester) which I know a few of my girlies will be glad to hear. It's designed to revitalise the skin and after an hour my skin just looked brand new. It was plumper and more even. I floated out the Blythswood (there is really no other word for it) feeling ready to take on the world, or at the very least another festival.
But first, sleep.

The Rainforest facial is available at the Blythswood Spa for £80. They have a mothers day deal on where you can book your mum in for the new Rainforest facial with Thermal Experience for £95. My mum's already been hinting....

glitter witch nails

2012-02-27T21:40:00.006Z

About 80% of the time my nails are a hot mess. Chipped, peeling and uneven. I've not got the patience/skill to do my nails myself so Salute is pretty much a dream come true. Set in the heart of the Barrowlands in B.A.AD, Salute spans two floors and pretty much feels like coming home. I mean don't get me wrong it's painstakingly cool with its limited edition art print, dj booth and skull paraphernalia but it still feels like the place for your every girl.Salute is the brain child of Danity Blame - who puts down the birth of Salute to her desire for their to be a place for people to come get some sick as fuck nails but in a social atmosphere. This is the place you and your girlies go before a night out. Get some prosecco, some tunes and some nails art. For me it was flicking through some mags, drinking coffee and generally getting the feel for the whole ethos behind the place.Salute's been open less than two weeks but Danity's already setting to make the nail boutique a destination arts hub for finding cool new products from designers with a mix of street punk ethos and all out fucking glam. It's all shades and gold nail rings in store, but the website it looking like it's going to be something special. For Danity it's about keeping it fresh, citing boredom as one of the contibuting factors for Salute's rise. It's all about not letting things get stale and always doing new exciting things, which let's face it, I'm all over.I mean don't get me wrong, I love doing a shop or a movie with my friends but the idea of us heading down to get our nails all gussied up on an afternoon and catch up on everything is a fucking dream. Salute has a real chilled out atmosphere but has this real attitude at the centre of it. It's about having your own style and being comfortable in it, so there is this real heart at the centre of it.
Prices are reasonable. I paid £30 to get myself some witchy glitter acrylics from the amazing Lisa. I went for long pointed talons, mastered typing but still need to figure out how to open diet coke and peel oranges. Tips of the trade from nail vets would be a treat btw.
Salute is open Thursdays-Sundays and you can book yourself some fancy ass treatments and find more about em over on their old facebook.

So I did some styling work

2012-02-22T12:30:00.001Z

When my friend Levi Macdonald asked if I wanted to do some styling work for her for an editorial in The Pulse I was reluctant at first. Reluctant and clearly mad. I fretted about insurance and how much time I would have and all sorts of little stress monsters. And then she gave me the brief. Marie Antoinette meets Marie Queen of Scots. Diary at the ready, suitcase in hand and we were set to go.
I got to work with some of the most beautiful clothes, shoes and jewellery this side of Scotland (seriously I was spoiled for choice) while working with people I think are all sorts of fantastic. The day was all kinds of cold but we stormed through it. Levi got some beautiful shots, Taz generally looked crazy gorgeous and Kaeleigh was on hand mixing lipstick shades and generally making sure Tara looked super sweet. Within the brief I was given a lot of creative freedom. I wanted it to be decadent, nothing would be too fussy. I liked the idea of mixing lace,silk,tweed and leather and creating softer looks with lots of detailing. While I love the romantic tulle skirt with the bebaroque body, I had a total soft spot for the all pink outfit. Lots of pearls, crystals and leather. It was easily the outfit I had the most fun with.
I had a wonderful day and was an overwhelmingly positive experience. I'd like to say a wee personal thank you to all the designers: Lilly Wiggler Couture, Obscure Couture, Bonnie Bling, Judy R Clark, Bebaroque, Euan McWhirter, Sarah from La La Land, Steven Moffat from Shhh...oooh, Fi from Elanor's Riot & Godiva Boutique as well as my friend Lorainne for the emergency costume pearls, Lynne from Tatty Bon for the gloves and hand steamer and anyone else who helped make this shoot happen. A special thank you to the gorgeous Taz, the tremendous K-wo and as ever the ever talented Levi Macdonald

on desire,nail polish and the ballet

2012-02-19T12:04:00.001Z

I'm the sort of girl who flits mostly between bold brash patterns and black. I look pretty much daft in anything soft so this whole pastel trend is completely lost on me however much I fantasise about looking ethereal and elegant- like my life was tuned to soft focus. OPI however have become my saving grace. For their latest collaboration have teamed up with New York ballet to create a collection of dreamy pastel shades (and a glittery guy for good measure.) I have to say this makes far more sense than The Hunger Games collaboration (which I will still buy every single polish they release and use the grand total of once) - this limited collection is classic shades that are bang on trend while becoming shades that will live in the bottom of your drawer in seasons to come. With names like "My Pointe Exactly" (a sheer grey) and "Don't touch my Tutu" (a snowy white) the collection is fun with all the makings of a modern classic. My favourites have to be "Care to danse" - a soft lilac (like I need another lilac polish) and "Pirouette My Whistle" -a silvery flecked topcoat. I can't seem to find an official release date other than the vague mention of April.

Speaking of ballet and indeed April (see how smooth that transition was) this year marks the 65th anniversery of Tenesse Williams Streetcar Named Desire, and to mark the occasion Scottish Ballet have produced a new show coming to Glasgow the 11-14th of April. I'm hoping I'll manage to get down to some of the talks at the Tramway in March (hoping if I pout at the boy long enough it will merit a trip to the Southside.)
This wee behind the scenes trailer of their poster production popped up the other day and it looks like the production will be as flawless as per.

Scottish Ballet: Streetcar 2012 - Poster Photo Shoot from Scottish Ballet on Vimeo.

Scottish Ballet presents A Streetcar Named Desire, sponsored by Adam & Company

Theatre Royal, Glasgow

Wed 11 – Sat 14 April 2012

Evenings 11-14 April – 7.30pm

Matinee 14 April – 2pm

Free pre-show talks at 6.30pm Thu 12 April with Artistic Staff and Fri 13 April with Music staff. Call box office to reserve tickets.

The Art of Deco: Bold Souls presents Prohibition Glamour

2012-02-18T09:29:00.000Z

From the creator's of Bold Souls comes an evening of fresh independent Scottish design. Featuring new designs from Chouchou, Lilly Wiggler Couture, Rene Walrus, Nadine Schloen and Ursula's Designs this pop up one off fashion event create a 3 mini fashion shows. Set in the heart of Glasgow at The Rainbow Room's International Salon, guests will have the opportunity to buy the designs straight off the catwalk in this unique shopping experience.
Tickets are £8/£7 for concessions and are available to purchase from Rainbow Rooms or online. The evening will benefit the charity - the Association for International Cancer Research with 10% of any purchase made on the night from the designer going to charity.

For some good old deco glamour deek Prohibition Glamour on the 22nd of February, 6:30pm at Rainbow Rooms International.

mary katrantzou for topshop

2012-02-17T10:30:00.000Z

While I'm sure every blogger worth her weight is going to post about Mary Katrantzou's collaboration with Topshop - launching today - when I saw the preview images there was no way I could not post about this. Busy patterns, zebra prints, matching nails by the girls from Wah!? Well fuck me gently with a chainsaw Topshop have gone and done it again.
I'd recently fallen out of love with Topshop in favour of River Island and Zara who have been completely killing it lately, and truth be told, I was not overly enamoured by their collaboration with Christopher Kane. It felt inconsistent. Their collaboration with the London fashion week favourite sees a very literal interpretation from her main collection for the high street with lots of draping, layering and patterns.The collection is infused with bright florals and waves and naturally feels very high end. I feel like I've been underwhelmed by a lot of designer collaborations in the past (*cough*Lanvin*cough*) but Topshop's collaboration with Katrantzou really raises the bar.
Is it so terrible I want one of everything?

Raise a Salute

2012-02-16T12:30:00.000Z

I am so crazy excited about this it is unreal. I've always fantasised about making trips to London to go to Wah!, or more realistically, periodically stalking DIY Nails as she does the round of the fares but my nail art crazy can be put to bed as looks like I can now get a regular fix in Glasgow.
Salute is the newest nail art salon to hit Glasgow. Based in B.A.A.D (an unassuming black building home to photographers, artists and the Obscure Couture girlies) - Salute is set to be the place to go for kick ass nails, sweet tunes and awesome threads. There are these AMAZING gold nail rings that I am dying to get my hands on! I genuinely can't wait to try this guy out, my nails are looking awfully sad these days.

If you're in Edinburgh today you really should pick up The Pulse

2012-02-16T10:25:00.002Z

A few weeks ago I worked on a little project with the super talented Levi Macdonald, Kaeleigh Wallace and Tara Nowy. The results will be in The Pulse today, available in the good old Burgh. Safe to say I can't wait to see what images they used and share more about it!You can deek the online version here.
Pic credit: Levi Macdonald

Design Collective Scotland Spotlight: Marc Ross

2012-02-15T07:59:00.007Z

The Design Collective Scotland, made up of Marc Ross, Emily Lamb and Di Gilpin are producing an eclectic range of work across the board. Specialising individually in womenswear, shoes and knitwear each of these young contemporary designers bring something fresh to the Collective.
Marc Ross is a man after my own heart. The collectives resident womenswear designer shares my affinity for lots of black and studs, mixed with flashes of geometric print and colour.His designs are overtly sexy, a running theme throughout the collection. The feel I get from it is this idea of power and ranges from bodycon dresses to evening gowns with slashes through the centre to the more fantasy based leather bustier gown. I love his use of lemon,orange and purple throughout the collection, and feel that it mixes up the palette without the collection loosing it's edge. Studs everywhere remains a weakness for me. From leather dresses to the leather jacket of my dreams. The matte black studs added a feeling of luxury and helped me buy in to the old adage "fashion people wear black." I loved the print design, especially on the first dress. It has a contemporary off the wall elegance.

Ross' collection was beautiful and featured the right combination of wearable and fantasy. Marc Ross is currently up for the Scottish Variety Awards Designer of the year (last year won by the super talented Alan Moore of ten30.) If you're swooning over his collections as much as I did then go vote for him over at the Clyde 1 site here.

Design Collective Scotland Spotlight: Emily Lamb

2012-02-10T09:18:00.007Z

It's a cold and dreary Thursday night, yet I find myself in the decedent surroundings of the Rox Thrill Room. I'm here for the latest collections from Design Collective Scotland - a collective of like minded talented young designers working to build and develop Glasgow's ever evolving fashion scene. Knitwear, shoes and geometric prints are what's to be expected and quite frankly I could not be more excited. So with cocktail and hand, camera ready to snap I prepare myself for the latest catwalk colletion from The Collective.
The Design Collective Scotland is made of of three emerging contemporary designers including Marc Ross, Di Gilpin and today's focus Emily Lamb.
Emily Lamb set up shop in 2010, creating beautiful handmade shoes in Scotland sourced from leather in the U.K. Every pair is made to order and her ethos is set in making sexy,beautiful and timeless creations for women's feet.Her designs are eclectic and fun ranging from romantic, to classic to sexy. I love the hot pink design of Sophia. For me it evokes feelings of a contemporary Marie Antoinette. The green t-bar that is Yamilex is unusual but very wearable and the injection of colour keeps the shoe feeling fresh, young and exciting. The black Ofelia with diamond panelling feels fun while the open toed black Carmen lends more of an edge to Lamb's collection. The predominant feature through her collection seems to be experimentation - and you can tell they have been designed by a shoe lover. They evoke a sense of grown up whimsy with flashes of colour and unusual detailing. The shoes featured here are priced between £220 -£320, and considering they are made to order in Scotland with U.K leather would say that is not too shabby. Not too shabby at all.

You can buy Emily Lamb Shoes directly from her website. Follow her on facebook here.
To find out more about Design Collective Scotland follow them on facebook at "Design Collective Scotland."

Emily Lamb will be featuring on a panel for Glasgow Film Festival at the UK premier of God Save My Shoes on the 24th February. Buy tickets here.

Save Tatty Bon

2012-02-07T22:05:00.005Z

In the past year we've seen the likes of Che Camille and Made in The Shade shut up shop in Glasgow, and it's looking like Tatty Bon is now suffering the brunt of the recession. While we all love our independent retailers, the high street still offers that fast fashion fix. I sat down with Tatty Bon owner and Merchant City's resident bad ass Lynne Anderson to talk about Tatty Bon, the recession and fighting the good fight in the indie market place.

Bee Waits: First of all - for those not in the know - What is Tatty Bon and what made you decide to open a vintage shop? Could you tell us where the name comes from?

Lynne Anderson:Tatty Bon is an independent boutique based in Glasgow Cross; the heart of Glasgow. We like to think of ourselves as an alternative to the high street. We offer a wide range of handmade/handmade jewellery, hand crafted accessories (bags being a favorite) as well as customised clothing (all recycled from second hand & vintage garments) and a good bit of vintage to boot! As for the name.....well, as many now know I'm sure, I named the shop after my cat, Tatty Bon-bon. It seemed fitting as I'm a crazy cat lady & she's now the shops mascot and is sometimes to be found in the shop.

BW: Who is the typical Tatty Bon shopper.

LA: I like to think we don't have a 'typical'. We get such a mixed bag of people in. Of course we get the our fair share of stylish students in, but we also get their mums! I pleased that the shop is such that anyone can walk in & feel comfortable.

BW:There seems to have been a backlash against the high street, yet with fast fashion outlets like Primark - how do indie shops make themselves stand out aside the competitors?

LA: Well, attitudes do seem to be changing towards the high st. I think that we've all experienced that awkward moment when you turn up at the pub and see someone in the same dress as you! That's not going to happen when you buy vintage or customised clothing, you know your a one off. I think it's a similar feeling you get when you by bespoke designer items, but without the price tag. You can still buy current styles in vintage/customising shops, fashion is ever evolving and always influenced by the past, so you know you can be fashionable, stylish & there's no chance of anyone turning up in the same outfit as you!

BW: As an indie retailer what have you found to be the challenges with running your own business?

LA: The recession has hit the whole country hard and when we look to the rest of the world so many are either the same of have it worse. In this kind of climate, it's always the little guys that are hit first, and often the worst, especially for a young business like myself.
As the shop is young we're still building the brand, looking at what weaknesses are & trying to build on our strengths. We're always working on building a solid customer base as well as customer loyalty and that's hard to do at the best of time, much less now. People often forget the DIY nature of small business, we don't have the budget and resources that large shops, owned by larger companies, have. It really takes time....

BW: What are the best things about your own business?

LA: I love what I do. I love creating and coming up with new ideas all the time. I think that most of my customers enjoy it too. It's important for there to be options other than the high st giants, the city needs to have the life and vibrancy that we bring to it. It's great to feel a part of that.

BW: You've ran your own series of events in store and are known for the market circuit. How have you found working with other indie retailers and why run events in store?

LA: It's great working with other indie retailers, there's so much variety out there and the people are so nice! I've made a lot of friends doing this, and much of it has been through other retailer/crafters that I've met along the way. we're all small and I think we need to support each other....and it's great to have people to bounce ideas off of. I really enjoy the in-store events. It's giving something back to the customer, some of whom are very loyal and supportive, so I can say thanks with some discounts, cake and a wee tipple, then why not?! It's also a great way to encourage folks who may not normally venture down our neck of the woods down to check out what we have to offer.

BW: What are your top 5 in store picks?

LA: Hmmmmm. Well I LOVE the over sized eagle necklace, I made myself one & I wear it most times when I'm going out. Also, you can't beat the heart scroll necklaces; you can be as sweet or offensive as you like. Express yourself through jewellery you might say. The small winged ones are a particular favorite.
I'm a big fan of bags, esp when you can fit tones of junk in them! So the hand made bags are def in there. They've been really popular & make great gifts.
Another thing I think makes the shop stand out are the hand painted shoes. All ladies love shoes & every pair are a one off. I also have loved plastic animal toys since I was a kind, so the taxidermy for toys range is my new favorite. They're so quirky...and funny.

BW: Do you have a favourite vintage era at all?

LA: Well I love the style of the 40's, especially the late 40's. But I must admit I'm also very partial to 70's sun dresses and print shirts.

BW: So who is your vintage style icon?

LA: Marlene Dietrich!! Marlene forever!! Now that was a woman with style. She was even involved with designing her film costumes. She should've been a designer. Marilyn Monroe is a close second, no one did adorable/sexy like Marylin.

BW: Where can the Tatty Bon shopper get herself/himself some goodies if not Merchant City bound?

LA: We're well represented online too. Log onto tattybon.co.uk for links to Etsy, Folksy as well as the online shop. There's also all our online networking sites such as Facebook, so you can always feel free to chat or even put in a wee sneaky custome request. I'll also be at GWBP Boyroom Blitz this Sunday with a range of mens goodies.Tatty Bon is a great wee shop and it would be a bloody crime to see it shut down. Follow Save Tatty Bon on facebook for updates of in store events or follow @Tattybon on twitter for updates and tweed #savetattybon. Remember sharing is great but buying something would be better. Tatty Bon is based on 61 Parnie Street (next to Static Games...imagine if you're walking to Mono) or online via etsy or folksy or direct from the site here.

Brand Lust: Minna Parikka

2012-02-05T17:15:00.008Z

I first came across "Minna Parikka" when I was visiting Shhh..ooh in Edinburgh and Parikka's elegant shoe designs instantly stood out. The blood drip design (or frosting if you want to think of it as something a little bit less morbid) through pieces of her collection instantly captivated me. After looking in to her designs a bit more I was hooked. I was declaring my love for Minna Parikka all over the shop, fantasising about my dream graduation shoes and posting links of nearly everything on the shop to my long suffering nearest and dearest.
Launched in 2005, Minna Parikka emerged from the designers love of shoes and tied close to the idea that "shoes-unlike clothes don't need to be inhabited by a body in order to look attractive." Its routes lay strongly in shoes as objects of power and how they can help shape how a woman looks and feels about herself. Parikka's designs could only be crafted by a shoe lover. They are playful and surreal and all kinds of beautiful. I could have spent hours on the site shifting through her heels, clutch bags and collection of gloves.

diaryofmu.com presents Minna Parikka DIARY from Diary of Mu on Vimeo.

Parikka's designs feel seamless and for me feel a bit like if Lulu Guinness did shoes.The same sense of whimsy without sacrificing craftsmanship is present in her designs. Her collection is wearable, practical and stylish - though I do have a fondness for her mask collection. While as a whole Parikka definitely has a certain edge throughout her collections it's when you view her mask collection that she shrugs off any pretenses of being prim and proper. Her work is girlish and fanciful and you can tell that there is a real sense of fun running through her work.

If you're Edinburgh based you can pick yourself up a pair of Minna Parikka's in the wonderful boutique Shhh...ooh on 9a Castle Street (shoe lovers you will just DIE, ask to see the white room, trust me.) However for those of us who don't fancy a trip to the Burgh you can buy online. Clocking in between £115-£300 a pair the seem like like something I may just be able to justify to myself.

ootd - design collective scotland

2012-01-31T10:42:00.003Z

Wearing: Printed Blazer - £10 - New Look, T-shirt - £6 - New Look, Skull Belt worn as Necklace - River Island - £6, Lion Belt - £3 - Primark, Leopord print skirt - £20 Topshop, Shoes with gold studded back - £3 - Primark, Bracelet - borrowed

I'm not entirely sure what processes me to do it, it's like an automatic reflex. You taking my picture? I'm going to tilt my head to the side like my neck is broken. It's a running theme in my life. The Design Collective Scotland show at Rox last Thursday was wonderful (more to come on the actual show soon) - and it's always great to see what some of our homegrown talent is up to. Marc Ross and his geometric print dresses and studded leather jackets were definitely a highlight. Can't wait to share with you some of the goods that were on show!
The outfit was a bit of an accident. I enjoy a good pattern clash and some trashy gold. This whole "black = sophistication" is a concept I fear is lost on me (much to the boys dismay). Still the whole look clocks in under £50. Hurrah!
This was the night that my dear Abigail (on the left) text "Would you like me to pick up some dinner?"..."Suprise me I said." 15 minutes later she shows up at my door with a bottle of wine and two mini bags of carrots. "I panicked." Toast for tea again then.

Photo: The very talented Daniela Flores

lilly wiggler lingerie s/s 2012 collection

2012-01-29T21:27:00.004Z

I feel like I've fallen off the face of the planet. Between transcription town, dissertation city, film festival goodness and a cheeky wee styling job - the last week has been all kinds of mental. With a bit of the January blues, this little beauty popping in to my mail box cheered me up like nout else. Like many a lass I'm a bit of an underwear junkie. There is no real need for me to drop in excess of £80 for a bra and pants that most people aren't going to see (nor really actually care for) but it's one of those things that makes me feel all kinds of brilliant. For me Lilly Wiggler is the kind of designer which you know has been made my a true lingerie fan. The Scottish lingerie designer Lilly Wiggler pays homage to vintage and burlesque with a nod to fetish and burlesque, looks that have become staples of the brand aesthetic. This handmade collection of lingerie is produced within Scotland and with each collection is a limited run.
Lilly's Spring/Summer collection features four bra/underwear sets and 3 body suits and manages to be both feminine, sweet and sexy. This may seem like a daft gripe to most - but one of my favourite thing about the Lilly Wiggler pieces is the fact that she makes bras up to an F cup. I'm in that playing field myself, and it's bloody heartbreaking to go in to a shop and pick up a bra and find out most of the right bonnie ones stop at a C or a D. I do love the high waisted shorty style briefs, they have a nice feeling of old time glamour about them. The Christy triangle bra is the bra of my dreams - although pretty sure it's lack of under wiring means not for me. I really adore the floral libby set. It's very dainty and sweet. After having a proper deek at this collection in person I'm all but ready to give up eating and order everything. I love that everything is built to fit, support and provide comfort without compromising on aesthetic. Her new collection will be available online late February and is a luxe homegrown alternative to my Agent.P. One for the lingerie fanatics for sure.

Scottish Jeweller Jane Gowans Valentines Pop Up

2012-01-23T22:16:00.005Z

I do know Valentines isn't really every ones "thing." Me? I'm in it for the abundance of red and pink glitter that explodes over her shops to help ease sale ennui. Heart shaped chocolates and cuddly toys bearing saccharine sweet sentiments of faux romance are overrated, I hear ya. Quite frankly I'd rather sit in with a take out and some Clint films than face the V-Day hordes.
Jane Gowans limited edition Valentine's day collection however kills the cynic in me with it's hopeful Romanticism and playful illustrated store front.Gowans has created a five piece collection for her Online Valentine's Shop centred round the heart. While the heart motif can at times come across as cliched and tired, here it feels fun, playful and contemporary (I have the softest of spots for oxidised silver.) The campaign on the run up to the release of the online pop up has been really fun - with cheeky limericks creeping up in my inbox and sly hints on my twitter feed. Finally the pop up has been launched with this gorgeous cover design by super talented Glasgow illustrator "The Earl Grey".Gowans Valentine collection is beautiful with a mix of silver and oxidised black silver. My favourite piece has to be the stackable heart rings, one in silver and oxidised silver please? At £30 a pop I'm sure if I bat my lashes (or forego my love of fancy sandwiches for a fortnight) I'll be able to make one of these bad boys mine. The most expensive items in the valentine pop up are the 2 different earring designs both clocking in at £50 a pop. Entirley inoffensive. Something that soothes the soul after a month of "economising" and watching the pennies. Gowans is an incredibly talented jeweller and her contemporary designs manage to be both fun while remaining elegant. Something for my ever growing wish list then?

Glasgow Film Festival 2012 - My fashion film top picks

2012-01-19T15:18:00.007Z

It's that time of year again where I find myself romancing webmail, lukewarm tea and the promise of sleep once February is over and done with. Festival season is indeed on the horizon, and last night saw the launch of Glasgow Film Festival's 2012 programme. There are a few bits and bobs I'm dying to see (hopefully on the big screen and not on a screener on a tiny MAC) - but I work on the fashion strand and considering how bursting it is this year I thought I would bring you a few of my top picks.

1: Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to TravelWithout a doubt this is the film I'm looking forward to most in the fashion strand. It's my shining jewel, born from a mild obsession with Vreeland that I've nursed over time. A documentary exploring the life and influence of one of the most iconic fashion editors of all time. Witty, stylish and all round fabulous. This film precedes The Eye Has to Travel Exhibition in Venice's Museo Fortuny later this year.
GFT: Saturday: 18th February - 14:50

2: Salomé
A lush silent film with piano accompaniment. The styling for this film is beyond beautiful - and while a flop at the time, Salomé has acquired cult status over the years since it's original release in 1923. Based on the Oscar Wilde play, Salomé is decedent, luxurious and an all round beautiful piece of cinema. Take full advantage of seeing this guy on the big screen.
GFT: Sunday 19th February: -19.00

3: God Save My ShoesInterviews with Loubution, Hardy and Blahnik all help to shape this documentary exploring women's relationship with shoes. It's a fun documentary looking at various aspects of women's intimate relationship with their shoes - which will be followed by a panel discussion of shoe experts (shoe fanatics, shoe designers et al) so should make for an interesting evening to say the least!
CCA: Friday 24th February 18:15

I suppose those are the biggies for me but we also have Bill Cunningham: New York - which has received rave reviews all over the place and is definitely one to watch if you enjoyed The September Issue. I'm also super stoked about the inclusion of some wonderful documentaries following two iconic British Designers, first of all Do it Yourself:Vivienne Westwood - about the Grand Dame of fashion herself and of course A Man's Story following the story of tailor extraordinaire Ozwald Boateng. For something slightly more sombre Girl Model take a look at the dark side of fashion.

I'm thrilled to be back working on the festival once more, and no doubt there will be more cinematic chat wheedling its way on here before February is out. One of the things I love about the festival is the opportunity to see films I may never have seen - and if you find yourself with some time in February I'd recommend taking in a few films at the festival. The programme this year is stunning (the Gene Kelly retrospective & the cabaret inspired Weimarvellous are personal highlights) so now it's just making nice with my email and waiting for it all to kick off.

me me me "pink best sellers" review

2012-01-17T13:41:00.011Z

I'd seen Me Me Me creeping about the shelves of Superdrug and my friends handbags before, but it wasn't until Joanna from Find Me a Gift got in touch asking if I fancied doing a review that I'd really given the brand a bash. She sent me along the Pink best sellers set (which at first I was like - pink, is this really where we're going with this) to have a swatch at. Anyway colour me suprised. I'm not sure what I was really expecting. I think I saw pink and lipgloss and panicked. I didn't expect me to be waving around all the different products in my friends faces (to varying levels of amusement.)The pink set comes in a lovely floral black box (reminds me a bit of a hat box) and contains one of Me Me Me's blush boxes in "pink" a Light Me up Gloss in "Illuminate" and a nail polish in "Ambitious." First thing I noticed was the colours were no where near as "pink" as they looked online (with the exception of the blush) - which was definitely a good thing. I still wasn't quite sure how I was going to feel about the lip gloss, but the packaging was all very pretty and sleek. The blush is reminiscent of a Benefit blush and the mirror in the lid is a nice touch and the brush is a good size. The nail polish packaging is pretty standard and pretty much get what you see, while the lip gloss comes with a mirror along the side, which is always a nice touch.
The nail polish was the first guy I tried and the colour goes on beautifully. It's very rich and creamy. A very dusky mushroom pink which is easy enough to wear every day. I've had loads of compliments on the colour and it's lasted really well. I found the application quite even and went on well with one coat. It's got quite a big brush which I'm totally in favour of (I know a maxi brush is not every ones cup of tea.) The polish has been quite hard wearing, I've smudged it a touch through wear and tear, but I suspect this is more to do with how hard I am with my nails and partially because I don't really give these guys time to dry.Hahahah my attempt of a FOTD. The blush is very very pink and has a very even application. I had to be quite light handed lest I ended up looking like Aunt Sally. I'm more used to more neutral tones for my blush, so this pink one was a pleasant suprise. It is maybe a bit more feminine than I would usually go for however found it works quite well my skin...(I am in fact paler than the palest.) Last was the lip gloss and boy howdy. I'm a girl who lives in red lipstick so pink lip gloss? I LOVED IT. This may or may not be because there is a torch in the lid that I insisted on showing everyone. It's almost a tea rose pink, and for me is as close as a nude/neutral lip colour as I'm ever going to go. It has lovely gold flecks through it and tastes a wee bit minty. It's not overly sticky but I did need to reapply it maybe once every hour to keep my lips looking heavy glossed up.

As a girl who for the most part is set in her ways with her make up I really really loved this brand and was crazy surprised. I'm probably not going to buy any of the other gloss colours as feel they may be too dark for me, definitely for a gift though. I'm now a full convert to Me Me Me polishes though and provide a much more pocket friendly alternative than my love for Butter polishes. The pink set is in the sale for £11.99 at the mo so deff worth giving it a go. Know the sisterling would go crazy for the coral set.

Stuart Dress

2012-01-16T18:27:00.004Z

Last week I mentioned sauntering along to the Burgh for the launch of Spencer clothing and the fact I've got a wee dress named after me. Well here is it...The Stuart dress- a dark blue cocktail dress with a scooped neck and a scooped v-neck back. I gave the boy and the besty a squatch at it over the weekend and yeah - it looks pretty much like standard fare from that wardrobe of mine.
Pics from the shoot are online and are more than deservin of a wee creep over at the Spencer page. All the pieces are named after different bloggers from the launch (I love love love the Quinn jacket!)

spencer clothing launch

2012-01-12T21:43:00.008Z

I've always been a great fan of Judy R Clark's work, so after finding out she'd be at the helm of new label Spencer clothing (a collab with fashinisto and Social Tailor Colin Gilchrist) I knew I'd been in for a treat. I've always loved her use of embellishment and her tailored jackets - so seeing how her very intricate work would translate for a commercial market was something I was dying to have a creep at.
And so I found myself in a gorgeous studio in the heart of Leith (yeah...I wasn't expecting that one either) eating cake and watching the tallest models I ever did see get snapped by Reuben Paris. The pieces were beautifully tailored and featured a very muted colour palette - with a nod to Edwardian Gothic in her designs. Spencer clothing is a mixture of profession, leisure and evening wear and carry an almost casual elegance across the whole collection. While I felt the evening wear was perhaps a bit mature for me (alas I am not a high flying girl about town attending balls and galas every weekend....no matter how hard I dream) but the profession and leisure wear had my wee heart dying. Highlights from the collection for me included a beautiful suit jacket with cherry red lining, a pussybow blouse with the most beautiful double cuffs (swooning to death over here) and a navy madmenesque scooped back cocktail dress (that apparently has been named after me...HOLLA!.)
The collection as a whole is very timeless - and seems very powerful without loosing any femininity. I will say I would have loved it if the collection was produced in Scotland - especially considering it's headed by one of my fave young Scottish designers - however in a commercial climate for a High End High street market (think Karen Millen/Hobbs) I can see why the pieces are produced in Europe.....but that is a post for another day.
I'd love to see more from the Spencer clothing line. It's capsule collection of 23 pieces is strong and wearable without being boring. Judy's trademark flare really comes through in the collection - though it is very surreal to see how it compares to her own line of tweeds and lace!
Anyway the above behind the scenes sneaky peaky pictures are by Reuben Paris (my camera did a spectacular impression of being an utter shitbag)...the actual pictures from the collection should be up soon enough. The bloggers in attendance all had a piece named after them which is weird/amazing - can't wait to give you a deek of the "Stuart" dress.
I did try and attempt and do an outfit post for that day (cashmere cardi, leopard print cigarette trousers and wedges...in case you were wondering)...but alas my attempts bore no fruits. However Wendy from Thank Fifi (who very kindly drove me there and back...in return for my horrible navigational skills and a song) snapped this wee pic of me and Emma.Q's shoes. I may have some crazy shoe envy. Trying to resist the urge to stud everything (I'm the one of the left with the skull cupcake.)

on the sickest hair i ever did see

2012-01-09T22:15:00.007Z

It's been a long time coming. Jeremey Scott with his dip dyes last year, Bleach X Barbie's collab - to Glasgow's Dawntroversial's experimentation with galaxy hair - it's looking like 2012 really is the year for coloured hair.
I've been battling to get back to my natural colour for a while now - to the point where I seem to be sporting some sort of reverse ombre...so what's changed. I've put it through the ringer the past seven years and I could almost feel it scapper back in to my head when I started cooing at the pastel shades littering my tumblr dashboard. Surely the help of a professional and a good semi-permanent would put my weeping hair to rest?
In truth it's all Lou Clavé's fault. Clavé and her FLAWLESS hair skills.
These sneaky peaky pictures found cropped up on my facebook feed...."pics from shoot with Levi Macdonald." Only one of my favourite Glasgow photogs (think ethereal and dreamy as fuck photos)... combined with this sick as anything hair? Honestly I cannot wait to see the fruits of this labour. Or...some other analogy. The previews of Clavé's work that have been coming up on my feed recently have been all faultless - including a pink semi-perm dip dye from the Obscure Couture girls RTW shoot. I'm not going to lie though this all out colour has be swooning something awful and yearning for my old blue locks. Maybe I should just say fuck it and play about with my hair before big bad job hunting time (maybe use a professional rather than rinsing my hair out over a sink though)....what do you think?
You can read Lou's blog on hair here - with tips of the trade and all other sorts of goodness, or natch creep on her facebook fan page to see what other hot hair projects she's got on the back burner. Actually too excited about what I'm going to be seeing with hair this year!

black & gold - an outfit emerges from the christmas party season

2012-01-09T15:49:00.002Z

I wear:dress - Tatty Bon, Belt - £3 Primark, Bag - £1 Charity Shop, Scarf - ten30, tights - £10 bebaroque, shoes - £3 Primark. Sheri wears - vintage and vivienne. classic.

One of my favourite things about the party season is the opportunity to dress as ostentatious as possible. A 50's gold prom dress that I'd be flirting with selling for a while (I had one of those moments of IHAVENOTHINGTOWEAROMG) and pulled this guy out of hibernation. The fact I wore it to the Rox Gold party made me...on reflection....feel like an UTTER cheese ball but at the time I was too sparkly eyed from the champers to cringe too much.

shu uemura skincare review

2012-01-08T14:19:00.001Z

My skin has a history of playing up. For a very long time it couldn't decide if it wanted to be dry, oily or something in between. After years of acting like a first class twat however it seems to have seemed to settle quite happily in the combination/dry camp. I've also had trouble finding skincare that works for me.
Shu Uemura was a Japanese make up artist who's philosophy for woman's beauty was rooted in beautiful skin - and after falling in love with the cleansing oils I was really looking forward to trying out some of the other skin care goods the brand had to offer.

Line Reducing Eye Essence: "Eye essence" now doesn't that just sound all kinds of luxe? That said...I'm not quite sure what else I can say about this cream. I'm 23....there isn't a lot of line reducing to do just yet. It's got a lovely gel texture and is very light and soothing. It's a brilliant cream and I would say it brightens my eye area more than anything. I've been using it for a few months and I'm quite fond of it. £40 is a bit steep for an eye cream for me...but it's lasted well. Maybe one for when I get a big fancy job eh?

Deepsea Water in Rose: I have to say this isn't really one of those ESSENTIAL skin care products for me. Shu Uemura's Deepsea Water's are nice and come in mint, rose, lavender, rosemary and fragrance free. They act as a refresher to your face to help hydrate and fresh up you're make up. It is a nice enough product - and the rose deepsea water I tried was especially nice, it's one of those things that's great for you skin. However it's £16.50...maybe one for the die hard Shu fans but I'm afraid to say I wasn't completely sold on this guy.

Cleansing Beauty Oil: The idea of putting oil on my face pretty much sounded like the worst idea possible. It just sounds like the complete opposite of what I'd want in a cleanser. That said I popped in to the Shu counter and was sorted out with a wee mini sample of the cleanser. You apply it dry to your face, rub it in, then wash off with water. It dissolves your make up a treat and turns in to a milk as you rinse it off leaving your face feeling super clean and hydrated. It acts as a cleanser and eye make up remover and doesn't strip the natural oils off your skin. It is the single best cleanser I have ever used in my life. The oil does last for ages - but if you are still unsure (150ml is £28) pop in to your nearest counter (House of Frasers if you're based in Glasvegas) and ask for a sample. It's one of their best sellers for a reason. I find the green tea oil works best for me.

Deepsea Hydrability Moisturizing Emulsion: I've got the softest of spots for a good moisturiser. The Deepsea Moisturizing Emulsion is a gorgeous moisturiser - almost more like a serum and lovely and light. It is not something I would recommend for the winter as I need something quite heavy duty during the winter months - however it's perfect for the Summer months and for post gym when my skin can't take anything too heavy. It's got a beautiful texture - though probably best if you're on the oily/normal side of the skin camp.

Overall Shu are a great brand - while the brand isn't the cheapest you pretty much get what you pay for here. The packaging is nice, simple and minimalistic - occasionally they do collaborations with artists with limited edition bottles which are always fun. If you're going to go for any of the products here go for the cleanser - but if you've got a bit of dollar to spend and still a bit concerned about if the brand is right for you get yourself some samples.

Also...a big old thank you to the amazing Emma Q for making me a blog header featuring some Miles Aldridge and Tim Walker. She's a star....and recently started her own blog....def one to watch.

one of those here outfit post guys

2012-01-07T12:20:00.003Z

Jacket - £3.50 Charity Shop, Shirt - £10, Primark menswear, Trousers - £10 hnm, Boots - £60 Topshop

I'm not usually one for outfit posts - mostly due to the fact I'm rubbish at using self timer and angling my camera at a high enough angle. Recruiting pals to take pictures of me make me feel a little bit like a tool (and a few folk at the bar did seem to wonder what the fuck I was doing next to the stairs).....but I got a new camera for Christmas and I would like to actually use it.
Anyway I wore this guy for lunch at The Butterfly and Pig with the bestie. Shared a main meal (which even split was crazy massive) and had a wee bit of wine - which lead to some late afternoon tipsy shopping. I realised a little bit late in the day that I was pretty much a bowtie away from looking like a bad knock off of the eleventh Doctor, the Scottish ginger in tow didn't really help matters. That said - worse things I could take my sartorial influence from.

On "Les Queues de Sardines"

2012-01-05T20:08:00.006Z

Look, I'm a bit of a classicist when it comes to tights.... (I am aware this sounds like utter wank spilling forth, I'm sure there isn't such thing as a tight classicist) - what I mean to say is I don't really stray far from a good old 80d in black or a nude tight. A fishnet when the occasion calls for it. Last year I dipped my toes in the water of patterned tights with Bebaroque during their sample sale, but even then I didn't go for anything too adventurous. It does however mean that sometimes I'm missing out on this wild and crazy fun tight train...especially when I see the collections from "Les Quelles De Sardines."
Les Quelles De Sardines (or the tales of the sardines...proving that everything sounds better in french) is a French tight and stocking brand known for their graphic print designs. The most recent collection "Heidi aime le Chocolat" is themed like a classic fairytale with all the whimsy, sweetness and darkness you would expect. It follows a couple Heidi and Otto who have been married for years - and Heidi develops an addiction for chocolate which Otto can't stand. So he decides the only way to deal with this is to chop off her arms. Naturally she runs off in to the Forest - and Otto pursues, firing arrows at her till she dies...and he takes her heart in memoriam. Pretty much your standard fairy tale sans the "and they lived happily ever after.." then.

"Pas de bras pas de chocolat, Bouba, Heidi and Saint Antoine"

I love the big bright prints - and the collection has a mix of elegant and romantic styles like Black Forrest and Sissi next to the more colourful fun designs such as Heidi. Saint Antoine is definitely my favourite design - I think the little arrow wounds are quite cute, hadn't noticed them before I'd read the background for the collection but yeah - checks a few boxes for me. I think the designs are maybe still a bit bold for me but in another life I'd be all over these like a bad rash. Maybe time to bite the bullet and experiment?
They retail at between €45 and €52 from here. Maybe when I'm feeling flush...though I suspect these guys may be more the sisterlings bag.

Skin Care Favourites of 2011

2011-12-29T15:37:00.000Z

You'll find no face wipes here. 2011 was the year I finally ditched the face wipes. Wipes are for tables and not my face. That said I don't think the transition would have been quite as easy if I hadn't found skincare that worked for me. I'm sure there will be a few things missing - but these are the guys that work for me and I've come to love. Best Cleanser: Shu Uemura Tea Tree Cleansing Oil - £28. The stand out product of the year for me without a doubt. This cleanser is the single best cleanser I've used. The oil formula takes a bit of getting used to but it's super moisturising and melts off make up a dream. I've been able to get off thick mascara and eyeliner a treat with this bad boy. Worth ever god damn penny.
Best Toner: Garnier Clean & Fresh - £3. Cheap and cheerful this high street favourite tops my list of toners. I don't use it too much any more as my cleansing oil pretty much covers me, that said if we're going to go for the best out there this one comes tops in my book.
Best Moisturiser: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Lotion - £16.50. After my Clinique rant earlier this year this one may come as a surprise, but it's a really bloody good moisturiser. It hydrates and has been doing me all sorts of good in the winter months without being too heavy. Give the rest of the 3 step plan a miss, but this guy is definitely worth having in your beauty cabinet.
Best Eye Cream: Shu Uemura Phyto-Lift anti-wrinkle cream - £49.50. I'm not going to lie, I did not buy this and probably wouldn't because £50 is scratching my upper limits. I did however get it in a goody bag and have come to use it every day. I'm sure when I'm super rich and have a lovely job with lots of money I will buy this. That said I do really love this product and it's part of my daily routine. What am I going to do when it runs out??
Best Exfloriater: Burts Bees Peach & Willowbark Deep Pore Treatment £8.50 - £10.99. Makes my skin feels brand new and really fresh smelling. I'd never used Burts Bees before but when I tried this guy out I fell in love. There is a banana hand cream I'm DYING to have a shot of.
Best Face Mask: Origins Clear Improvement Charcoal Face mask - £19. I stumbled across this wee treat earlier this year and is my go to guy if I fancy popping on a wee treat to my face. My skin aways feels super fresh and hydrated after this guy.
Best All Rounder: Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream - £25. I believe that every lass should have this in their make up bag. It's doubled as a moisturiser when my skin's been unbearable, a lip balm and hand cream. This is something I will use for ever.

Obviously a few things slipped under my radar and I'd love to try some new products out in the new year.....but a good few of these I can't imagine myself straying from.

Bee Waits Top Make-Up 2011

2011-12-28T15:24:00.006Z

Every year I try to experiment with different bobs of make up. I'll play around with metallic eyeshadows and lilac lipsticks (because hey that's part of the fun with make up right?) but only a few products become regulars in my old make up bag. Sometimes it's a brief love affair - but here I'm bringing you my favourite products of this year. The ones I will always buy again, and pretty much wear every day.
Best Foundation: Laura Mercier Silk Creme Foundation in Soft Ivory - £33 available in House of Frasers and Space NK. I've really done a number on my skin with foundations. They would be too heavy, or too yellow or too thick. I've got the fun time that is combo skin, but I enjoy quite a matte coverage. That said while Laura Mercier's Silk Creme foundation has a "luminous" coverage it still left a good even base without stripping moisture out my skin or making me super shiney. The colour match I got with Soft Ivory was incredible and although the tube is only 35ml this guy has lasted for ages.
Best Concealer: Soap & Glory Kick-Ass Concealer - £10 from Boots. A newbie to the table but already a firm favourite. The 3 step plan with the two toned concealers (yellow and pink) means this little guys got you all covered. The coverage is great, the design of the container is super cute and is just as good if not better than many more expensive concealers.
Best Primer: Shu Uemura UV Under Base - £36 from House of Frasers. While not the cheapest, it does make your make up last forever. I'm not usually for mouse but I'm in love with this guy and wear it under everything. It's got a slight light pink tone when applied which evens out my skin great.
Best Mascara: Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lash Extending Mascara - available on CheapSmells.com for £5.95- otherwise £20. I fell for this mascara last year after getting a sample and haven't used anything else since. It's last for ages and makes my lashes huge. I will be deff stocking up from cheap smells for the new year.
Best Lipstick: MAC - Russian Red £13.50, MAC - An oldy but a goldy, this matte bluey red lipstick is a staple of my make up bag and pretty much the only colour I ever wear.
Best Blusher: Accesorise Blusher in Diva - £5 from Superdrug: The Accesorise make up range was a pleasent suprise and the blushers are some of the best I've ever used. At £5 a pop you get pretty much all the blusher in the world, which gives a good even coverage. The warm Diva colour is my go to colour.
Best Eyeliner: Rimmel Exaggerate Liquid Eyeliner - £5.29- pretty much everywhere. While I've played around with eyeliners from Collection 2000, MAC to Shu, I always come back to this guy. It is without doubt the best liquid eyeliner I've ever used. I've been using this guy since I was 15, and pretty sure I'll be wearing it for the next 8 years too.

I'm hoping to cover skin care and hair treats soon, but I'd love to hear about your favourite make up treats of the year? Anything I've missed?

Scottish Ballet - Sleeping Beauty

2011-12-27T10:33:00.005Z

During this festive season in between scoffing mass quantities of quality street and drinking far too much baileys it's pretty much customary to go to the theatre. Last year it was me and the Tron gate crew heading down to the panto at the Citz, this year however thought would go for some slightly more sophisticated fare and take in a wee bit of the ballet, this year a lush as performance of the classic fairy tale Sleeping Beauty.
As always Scottish Ballet deliver a feast for the eyes in the luxurious performance. I love seeing simple stories brought to the stage with music, costume and dance with beauty and humor. Carabosse (the evil fairy) and her daughters were firm favourites for me - not only for their dark intricate costume designs, but their performance at Aurora's christening was one of my favourites. It was fun watching Carabosses' daughters kick cakes off the table and hassle the guests with their pure form of anarchy, accompanied with fast paced strings. Lots of tension and humor. The guests were brilliant and during the christening there was always something going on in the background which I really enjoyed. The regency style dresses in whites gave a lovely fresh and clean feeling that were a beautiful contrast to Carabosse's black and green.
Aurora's 16th Birthday party was brilliant - the young princesses in attendance were dressed in beautiful pastel dresses that reminded me of Luella of yore. The party was very opulent and glamorous, and the colours for the guests were very rich. Aurora's dance with her suitors was brilliant, very charming seeing the princes pass Aurora, and everything felt strong and purposeful. It was really quite lovely.
I loved seeing how the costumes changed in the final act to early 1940's pieces. The colour use was more sparse but the pieces were beautiful, and the other fairy tale princesses that made an appearance had modernised fairy tale looks. I have to say I adored Red Riding Hood - her 1940's dress looks like it could have been a Torres in another life and of all the princesses (other than Aurora) was my favourite.
Overall the production was simply magical, the music was amazing, the costumes were spectacular and the dancing as always was beautiful.
This year took the mum, grandmum and grandpop, the grandmum and mum were already great fan's of the ballet, though this was their first time seeing a production from the Scottish Ballet, and grandpops? Well, he wasn't quite sure what to expect. Needless to say by the end of it (like the boy a few months prior) he was a total convert. As we walked to the restaurant after he spoke fondly of the music and how ridiculously strong the dancers were. Seems to be a running theme with gentlemen who I introduce to the ballet.

Sleeping Beauty will be performed in Glasgow till the 31st of January at Theatre Royal before touring the rest of Scotland and Newcastle.
Festival Theatre, Edinburgh: 11-14th January
Her Majesty's Theatre, Aberdeen: 18-21st January
Eden Court, Inverness: 25-28th January
Theatre Royal, Newcastle: 1-4th February
Tickets are priced between £10 - £37.50. If you're looking to take in a show and you're near any of these cities I would encourage anyone to go see Sleeping Beauty. If you're under 26 their are usually last minute deals on the day so always worth a shot to keep an eye out for one of those. You can book yourselves some tickets here.

Hope you lovelies all had a Merry Christmas.

bubble betty - rainwear for happy heads

2011-12-21T11:07:00.004Z

After the whole Hurricane Bawbag incident coupled with a loss of several hats and twice as much as umbrellas I had pretty much resigned myself to having rain hair for the duration of our super fun Scottish winter weather. Then Toni from Dada got in touch about a new Scottish niche brand - Bubble Betty. It's pretty much stylised version of the rain hats your Gran wears to protect her perm or her rinse. I'm not going to lie - I was totally skeptical at first. How the fuck do I look like a passable human being with a bit of plastic wrapped round by head? God I didn't even know how to put the guy on let alone brace the elements.
While not something I think I'd have naturally been drawn to - this reinterpretation of the vintage rainwear with quirky designs is really cute. They come in handy travel sized tins in four sweet designs. I got sent the red lace guy but super fond of the leopard print of black lace. They are 6 bucks a pop and fit right easy in to your handbag...and yup they keep your hair dry without the whole hat loss/brolly death that's usually inevitable with crap weather. There are a few vintage dolls that I know would rock the shit out of these bad boys and looks fierce as hell...and at £6 a pop,it could easily work it's way in to any of those ladies stockings in time for Christmas. They aren't available in shops yet but can be picked up online here.Would love to see some more designs...polka dot/zebra print?
What do you guys think? Plausible alternative to brollys/hats this Winter or a bit too niche?

scottish blogger christmas meet

2011-12-20T10:38:00.005Z

Of course is started in a pub....as any Scottish night out is wont to do. To be frank we looked like the weirdest office party in the world, and for the first time in a good long time I found myself drinking before 3 in the afternoon. Of course this kind of behaviour is crazy acceptable...mostly because it's Christmas (I have been using this excuse since mid November and will continue so in till late January) but also it was the Scottish blogger Christmas meet organised by the babalicious duo of Charlene and Rani. We all met up in spoons - and there was a whole mess of new faces (HIYA PALS) and a few old favourites. After a wee tipple, chat and getting some gorgeous goody bags courtesy of Allison Jameson Consultants filled with looooooovely Osmo goodies we sauntered down to Rox to have a champagne afternoon tea in their thrill room. The Thrill room is looking crazy beautiful and festive at the mo - It's a Wonderful Life projecting on the big old wall while we sat and ate tiny mince pies and glittery cupcakes under a MASSIVE Christmas tree. All very glam. Lucky us also got hooked up with some stunning stud earrings from the ladies at Rox....lovely Christmas treat. Very delicate and elegant.

Steamboat face courtesy of Wetherspoons

We had a wee creep down Primani which is always a treat - also the quietest I've ever seen it. Where the hell is my Christmas Shopping Apocalypse? After we sauntered down to the Christmas market for hot dogs before having a wee saunter to MAC to coo at lipsticks. Apparently Russian Red is being discontinued??? Rip out my heart why don't ya? Clearly will be stocking up in the next couple of weeks. Can you freeze lipstick? Must investigate. After all this I departed to go meet the besty...and my night ended with us watching Despicable Me, singing Eminem and drinking prosecco. Usually I'd be feeling a bit guiltier about having this much fun on a Monday night but....see above excuse #itschristmas.
I had such a great time and can't wait to creep out everyones blogs...and a super big saucy thank you to Charlene and Rani for sorting us all out!

A Glasgow Girls Guide to the Alternative Christmas Shop - Eco Chic

2011-12-16T19:31:00.007Z

A new boutique opened up at my end of the town....right on my beloved High Street herself. Eco Chic boutique may only have been open a few weeks but it's fast becoming a favourite. Stocking clothes, homeware and furniture while keeping the stock within human affordability (ie:not reducing me to a diet of rice and gravy) it's the ideal place for your last minute Christmas goods, or if you're looking for something a bit fancy.
Eco Chic is actually part of a charity - Impact Arts who use arts in communities around Scotland as a tool for change. Most of the stock in the store is designed and made by their young designers on the Impact Art programmes, though it also features a mix of upcycled, vintage and Glasgow designers.
A few of my favourite pieces included the deatachable collars at £12 a pop, made my different young designers at Eco Chic. Collars are something that I've always had a soft spot for and this is one way a sister can hook herself up without breaking the bank. Here's hoping I'll have some Christmas pennies! The digital printed bags at £25 are sweet and spacious - ideal for my aldi shop, though can imagine the sisterling would enjoy it for gym times.One of my utter favourites has to be the cushions. The digitally printed cushions from "Red Thread" (a label from the students of Cardonnald College) are £12.50 and are some of the nicest designs I've seen in a long time. The selection of clothes is amazing, dresses hitting around the £15 mark as a standard - most seem to be upcycled though there are a few from scratch from ethically sourced fabric on the rails.
Eco Chic is located on High Street (next to the Panopticon and oppisote the Tesco Metro..head along Argyll till you get to creation and turn left) and is open Tuesdays - Saturdays 10am - 5:30, 6.30 on Thursdays. It's amazing that more and more of these shops are popping up and thriving in a recession especially with Scotland's high street spending dipping. These alternative independent boutiques help make Glasgow one of the best places to shop, so always pleased to see a new guy like this open. Definitely one to check out!

a soft spot for the 90s

2011-12-10T21:51:00.014Z

Not wanting to be a cliche blogger or anything (already pretty sure I've got that down with my love of cats, galaxy print and chunk impractical shoes) but it will pretty much surprise no one that I got myself a wee soft spot for the 90s. I say soft spot...I mean major ridiculous lust. I really should know better. Anyway I stumbled across "90's Runway" - now officially my favourite tumblr ever by the by, and it's just all these insane and amazing runway looks from the 1990s. Does what it says on the tin really. I mean sure there is some fucking insane shit on their too...I blame girls nursed at the teet of Lisa Frank for some of the ridiculousness going on over there. That said there is some collections that I flat out love - and I'm pretty much all on board for the zealous use of gold....gold chains all up in this bitch. That mixed with sheer, latex, pastels, flowers and belts and I've pretty much found the best alternative to a night in of X-Fator. Here are my highlights:

1: Chanel 1992 2: Yves Saint Laurent 1999 3: D&G 1992 4: Yves Saint Laurent 1993 5: Vivienne Westwood 1990 6: Thierry Mugler 1992 7: Christian Dior 1999 8: Thierry Mugler 1996 9: Sonia Rykeil 1994

I'm off to waste my life coveting trends of decades past. I'm sure there are worse ways to spend my nights...

The Rox Gold Christmas Party

2011-12-10T10:37:00.005Z

The Thrill Room is easily one of my favourite places to spend an evening in Glasgow. Large comfy seats, gothic candles, a projector for screening classic films and a bar sponsored by Moet.....can't really think of a nicer place to spend a Saturday night eh? When Toni invited me along to the Rox Gold Christmas party I dusted off my party shoes, pulled out my most ostentatious dress (twas a Christmas party after all) and called up the lovely Betty Swollocks for an evening of diamonds, champagne and Emili Sande. And apparently a claw machine.
Celebrating a year since the re-launch of their Agyll Arcade store it was all cocktails and canapes. Very glam. We were given a token to try out hands at a claw machine. The Swollocks and I had maybe a few too many pinky mojitos by the time our time around...and pretty sure we were pretty much the worst guys at it. That said I did see a fair few folk walking around with Rox bags - filled with their arcade spoils. Emeli Sande performed - which was really nice to see her in a more intimate location.

Rox have a wee video of the night filled with interviews, well dressed people enjoying their sparkly, Emili Sande's performance and a wee glimpse of me about 6 and a half minutes mark...loosing spectacularly at the claw.
Was wonderful to see some of the girlies - Charlene and Anna. A super special thanks to Toni for inviting us. Made the staff party at GFF the next day a bit rough but so very much worth it! Meanwhile this guy has sneaked on to my Christmas list. Dear Santa....

A Glasgow Girls Guide to the Alternative Christmas Shop - Jewellery Edition

2011-12-08T14:37:00.012Z

With gale force winds and deadlines a plenty, you're Glasgow girl doesn't always have time to visit her favourite haunts, and with the lad strapped to his desk with overtime it's not the easiest thing in the world to nod knowingly at him as we pass a few of my fave jewellery shops. Now I'm a bit fan of Rox (for diamonds and fine jewellery) and Brazen (for something a bit more off the wall but none the less beautifully crafted) but the jewellery I bring you today is all made in Scotland and available online. A wee well timed email to the boyfriend's office with some helpful hints may be called for....
First up is Jane Gowans. I'm a big fan of her matchstick collection and would be delighted to find the maggie braclet or oliver necklace under my tree, however it's her 2011 limited edition collection of rings that's got me really excited. I'm known for only ever really wearing gold or pearls, however this oxidised black silver ring looks like something out of a fairytale. An edgier and more luxe version of her usual Bessie rings the limited collection featuring rings in silver, yellow gold and my newly beloved oxidised silver. This guy clocks in at £235, the limited collection ranging in price from £200 to £400. Not to bad eh? If looking for something a bit more purse friendly to fill your stockings with her limited edition prints are £25-£30 a pop. I'll take one of each please. Her orders depending can take up to 4 weeks to be finished, so I'd be getting in your orders now ladies!
Next up is Euan McWhirter. His couture collections have this real feeling of decadence and luxury - particularly his intricate Mary Antoinette inspired collection. While his Lucky Bitches rings are gorgeous (and a steal at £95 a pop) - it's the Atomic Cuff - a mix of acrylic, swarovski crystals and hand cut glass that's caught my eye. It's totally OTT, and makes me think of early Moschino. What I'm getting at is that it's totally excessive in black and gold - my fave colour combo. This guy slys in at £135...and you can order from Euan directly by email info@euanmcwhirter.co.uk.
How to I decide what piece I'd like from Bonnie Bling? Her broaches and necklaces adorned with the likes of "Bawbag", "Belter" and "Baltic" would all make fabulous stocking fillers, or hell even by grand wee treats in a Secret Santa...but I'm talking about the kind of shit I want to see under my tree and this delightfully macabre blood drip bracelet from Bonnie Bling's collaboration with Raksa is right up my alley. At £55 this guy is the perfect ghoulish treat for someone looking for something edgy with a good dose of fun in their parcels.Tatty Bon is round the corner from my house - but not everyone can be so lucky. The shop is filled to the bring with custom and vintage as well as her own jewellery. My favourite of her collection of handmade jewellery is her double scroll crystal hearts. At £12 a piece you can order your colour of crystals and phrase. I've got....ocht god knows how many of these. My Horror Queen ring may be a favourite. You can place your order or have a general creep on her etsy. Deff a gift that is pocket friendly. Ideal for getting custom names for your best girlies I'd say.Finally is the mistress of silver herself Anna of Oui Designs. I love her paper girl and silver bullet collections and feel that Oui designs make some of the most beautiful silver jewellery in Scotland. The above piece was a custom broach and necklace for an anniversary gift but Anna has been known to turn her hand at bracelets, rings and photo booklets necklaces. If you have a bit more money to spend and want an original piece anna@ouidesigns.com is the place to go. Me? I'd kill for the silver bullet earrings.

Here's hoping I'll find something lovely under my tree! I can pretty much peg down friends and family members who would love each one of these designers. Any of their collections standing out for you?

A Glasgow Girls Guide - Once Upon a Tart

2011-12-07T11:12:00.006Z

While the West End of Glasgow is well known for it's off beat boutiques and coffee shops, my beloved Merchant City has had all kinds of wonderful wee shops pop up over the past few years. I mean we've got old favourites like Mr Ben's, The 13th Note, The Panopticon and Mono that I swear to god have been here forever - but in the past few years we've seen In the City Vintage, Tatty Bon, The Beauty Kitchen and more recently Eco Chic Boutique. With a growing cultural quarter at my end of town surely there's got to be a fine place to pop in for a spot of tea and a bun when stocking up on indie Christmas goodies?And then Once Upon a Tart opened..and I was in love. What was once an art space on King Street has been transformed in a flurry of pink and black in to the quintessential tea house of the Merchant City. We're not flush with Starbucks and Costas around here (thank God) so the opening of an indie coffee shop round the corner from Casa Stuart is just what the doctor ordered. It's all tea leaves and raspberry brownies and hunners of cushions. Most of the eats clock in under £4 and they pretty much do the best banana bread I've ever tasted. With generous helpings at affordable prices in a coffee shop with plenty of character - Once Upon a Tart is THE place to stop off for your Christmas shop coffee break. I'll be taking the besty there tomorrow so we can exchange gifts, and I'm dying to take the boy there for brunch. Blueberry and maple syrup pancakes? YES.

Once Upon a Tart is open Monday to Sunday 9-5, and is located on 45 King Street. That's along Argyle Street, past T G Hughes and turn right as if going to Mr Ben's. Couple of doors down from In the City Vintage.

A Glasgow Girls Guide to the Alternative Christmas Shop - Welcome Home

2011-12-01T19:10:00.003Z

Another old favourite makes it's way in to the Glasgow Girls Christmas Guide is Welcome Home - a unique retail space in the city centre showcasing craft, design and illustration. They stock beautiful wall prints, jewellery from independent designers, a selection of gorgeous stationary and a whole host of other treats. Welcome Home is as central as it gets sharing space on Sauchihall Space with the CCA, so just a quick saunter from the ABC, today I bring my fave treats available online.

I've spoke about the hand shadow jewellery available at Welcome Home before. It's such a cute idea and would be a fantastic gift for secret santas or stocking fillers. At only £15 it doesn't break the bank either. I love the bird design, but I know Lynne would love the dinosaur silhouette ring. For the make up lover who enjoys minimalist graphic design this windy day make up bag clocking in at £20 would be a right wee treat under the tree. All prints are slightly different - and it's also available in a rainy day print and sunny day design. The windmills is a favourite for me. For my brother in law the Takae Mizutani egg and soldier set is something I can see in his kitchen cupboard easy peasy. He's a wee lad at heart, and the horses and castles design is fun. My wee sister and him are moving in to their own flat next year so this wee slice of home ware would be perfect. Finally this digitally printed cushion is perfect for fans of graphic prints. I kind of want it for myself. I do like a nice bit of home ware. I've got a soft spot for cushions and pretty sure if I had my way my flat would be filled with them entirley.

Got any favourites from the site?

A Glasgow Girls Guide to the Alternative Christmas Shop - The Beauty Kitchen

2011-11-30T19:00:00.003Z

So far my shopping guide has been very West End based, but taking a saunter in to something a little bit closer to home I thought I'd share one of my favourite hidden gems in Glasgow - The Beauty Kitchen. Based in the Salt Market (a hop from the Merchant City...and a very quick saunter from Argyle Street) The Beauty Kitchen is pretty much my go to place for fancy bath facilities. With a strong ethos in keeping in natural, ethically sourced and local the Beauty Kitchen is one of those guilt free pleasures. No hidden nasties and nearly all the packaging is pre-cycled. My mother also is a fan of the executive bath - and while she's usually a fan of the Molton Brown variety - I believe The Beauty Kitchen is the kind of place to tickle her fancy with it's natural ingredients.

The bespoke body scrub is perfect if you want to create something a bit more personal. First you choose your base (British brown sugar, British white sugar, Epsom salt or fine sea salt) and then your ingredients. The choices include bitter orange, heather buds, stinging nettles (great for skin) and marigold rose. After this you get to choose your oils and the pattern for your label. Pretty fancy? You can build your scrub online although if you're Glasgow based (or bound for Christmas shopping) I'd say go in. The expertise of the staff is unbelievable and can advice you on what scents and ingredients blend well together and what everything does.

I'm a fan of the shower gel - it lasts for ages. I go for the brighter scents of either citrus or mints (got to get up some how) and find the essential oils are prominent without being overwhelming. The lip balms are great at only £2.95 and make brilliant stocking fillers. I'm yet to try the bath oil BUT it's something that would not go amiss in the stocking boyfriend. It sounds very luxurious and if my experience with the other products are anything to go by I think it's a perfect bit of affordable luxury.

Vegetarian and environmentally friendly - gifts for those who like a bit of luxury, without having to break the bank.
The Beauty Kitchen is open Thursday and Friday 11.30am - 6.00pm and Saturday 10.00am - 5.30pm.

A Glasgow Girls Guide to the Alternative Christmas Shop - shop of interest

2011-11-27T16:50:00.000Z

Next up on my indie Christmas gift guide is the Finneston based shop of interest. Based across from The Hidden Lane this hidden gem is the West End destination for quirky home ware and art. Easy to get to (get the train to Exhibition Centre, turn up and walk on to the main street...you will not miss it) the pricing here is if you fancy getting something a little bit special. Some of my favourites from the online shop include the Friendly Buildings Prints. I'm a sucker for a good piece of wall art and priced at £35 from a limited run of 50 these guys are fun - and are the sort of guy that would make an EXCELLENT present for the sister and her fiance to help make their new year house a home. I have to say I love a decedent bit of home ware and the ceramic puppy plate from Glasgow based illustrator Lindsay Grime is to die for. It reminds me of those weird dogs my Great Gran had in front of her fire place (which to be fair I believe is the point.) Got to say this guy does make me want to start a plate collection on my wall with various domesticated animals painted on them - and at £49 I believe I'd want to display this as art before eating off it. I know this is something my pup mad best friend would heavily appreciate. Finally the fly scarf by Craig Fellows. Pure silk and just a bit macabre. My affinity for a fancy scarf had me swooning at this guy - £89 it's cheaper than your usual fancy scarf. I suspect this would be an excellent gift for the grown up goth in your life. Some of the prettier prints like the poppy would be something I just know my Gran would love!
I'd say this place is best for those looking for affordable prints as well as a wide selection of ceramic jewellery. If ever in the West End, def somewhere to fly on by.

A Glasgow Girls Guide to the Alternative Christmas Shop - La La Land

2011-11-24T19:08:00.004Z

There is a reason Glasgow is Scotland's premier shopping destination - and while it may seem like the easiest option to hit up Buchanan Galleries and St Enoch centre for your Christmas shop - Glasgow has some of the best indie shops filled with affordable unique gifts off the beaten track - so thought I would bring a few of my seasonal picks from a few of my favourites!First up is La La Land - based up Decourcy's Arcade in the West End (off Bryers road, a 5 minute walk from Hillhead Subway Glasgow shopper) and is owned by the amazeballs Sarah Graham. Stocking Scottish designers like Jennie Loof, Hilairy Laing and Bonnie Bling as well as off beat labels like Brat & Suzie and Lady Oaf - La La Land is the premier shopping destination for fashion lovers of all things cute and a wee bit quirky. One of my top picks include Scottish designer Dazed Dorothy's windmill leather clutch - elegant, simple - sort of thing momma bear would love. I love love the tuxedo scarf from Lazy Oaf - perfect for this winter wedding, and in the sale, this is the sort of thing my dear Miss Anderson would adore, and at £8 it's a frigging steal. For a secret santa/stocking filler there is some DIY Nails. I love the bunny design with tiny carrots at £10.....too much to hold out for kitties with tiny fishes maybe? Last is present for self - the Scottish based Sit Back Ride Tiger skull unisex tshirt at £28. 100% cotton and a suitably gothy design. Swoon.
All my picks and all sorts of other delights can be found online - but would thoroughly recommend a visit to the store if you can! It's one of my long time favourites.

we are the owls - carnival inspired scarves

2011-11-17T20:29:00.008Z

I've featured We are The Owls here before -and when I came across New Yorker Ling Chen's circus inspired collection of cashmere scarves I knew they'd be sneaking on here again. Everyone knows I love a fancy scarf with a fancy print - so a collection that features knife throwers, tattooed lovers, snake charmers and Houdini I'm going to be all over. There is a sort of minimalist victoriana thread going through the collection without being too literal. Despite it's fantastical influence of circus and carnival the palette throughout remains simple and sophisticated - mostly working on whites, blacks, browns, blues and reds. I think my favourite may just be the knife thrower or the sideshow twins.
These sexy boys are available on Net-a-porter and Glassworks Studios retailing at £200 & £205. Saving up my Christmas pennies for one of these I think/hope/pray.

glasgow babes obscure couture taking over x-factor

2011-11-13T23:39:00.005Z

Look I'm not really one for X-Factor (don't get me wrong I love how redic and OTT it is...but I work in a bar, it doesn't really lend itself to Saturday night tv times) and it doesn't seem like something I'd chat about here on the blog....but the Amazerous design team Obscure Couture had some fierce outfits on Little Mix and Amelia Lily on our small screens at the weekend. Couldn't let little slice of awesome slide me by!
Amelia wears Flesh & Bone while Little Mix wear a mix of Us vs Them collection and the Obscure Couture diffusion line. Seriously best thing to come up on my facebook feed in weeks.

You can buy yourself some Obscure Couture over on ASOS Marketplace here .... follow the lasses on twitter here and follow the babes on Facebook here. World domination for these girls awaits.
Congrats ladies, couldn't be more deserved!

bang bang vliger & vandam

2011-11-08T20:32:00.006Z

I'm pretty sure the "Guardian Angel" bags from Amsterdam based design duo Vlieger & Vandam are a sure fire way to get me banned from all banks,airports and a fair few drinking establishments in Glasgow but the embossed gun and knife bags are pretty much one of my favourite things.
I'd spotted them in Brazen many moons ago - buttery goatskin leather - just chilling there, looking fucking fabulous. It's November so on the run up to Christmas pretty sure I'm legitimately allowed to start dropping seriously pouty faced puppy eyed hints in the direction of the boy?
In 2005 the MoMA in New York featured these guys in an exhibition "Safe: Design Takes on Risk" and as of 2006 the Guardian Angel bags were made a permanent part of their collection. So keep your Birkin's and your 2.55's - I want me a Guardian Angel.
Effectively living in stab city think the knife embossment may be a bit too much?

Vliger & Vandam are stocked in Brazen in the Merchant City...which I do not pass every day and coo in the window. We're looking between £189-£350 for a bag....shall I start saving now then?

on love,money & power - ten30 a/w preview

2011-11-03T22:09:00.001Z

Silk, tweed and leather inspired by gangster movie vixens.
Go on then.
I really didn't think Alan Moore of ten30 could out do himself after his fantastic ballet inspired show The Ukrainian Girl earlier this year. An invite popped in to my inbox, all hush hush. I knew there would be tweed and wine, but the actually thematic element of this seasons collection was all kept very hush hush. I tried to poke and prod Alan for more details......and all I got was "bit more mature...I think you'll like it." Well god damn.
I suppose there are worse places than Malmaison to spend a rainy Saturday night in Glasgow. The intimate catwalk was adorned with heather, each seat came with a small token, hand embroidered quotes from classic gangster films Casino, Scarface and Goodfellas. A clue of what was to come to the evening mixing ten30's love of luxe with something more lighthearted and personal, it's these extra touches that have come to define ten30 shows.
The A/W collection mixed Harris Tweed, with leather, silk and faux fur - very decedent and luxurious - and heaven knows I love a good old mix of fabric. Silk and leather? Everything about the collection was very much about contrasts. Hard and soft. Sexy and vulnerable. The A/W preview was a mix of silk shirts, wearable dresses and jackets. Moore's collections are unashamedly feminine - the black silk dress with leather peter pan collar proved popular - evoking memories from his previous collection. It feels like a natural progression yet more mature. His collection of silk shirts with shredded detail looked beautiful and gave the show a slightly more masculine edge and evoking a sense of power. I have to say I wasn't crazy for the styling here (tights and shirt is for the most part not my thing) - but the pieces looked lovely and floaty. Highlights for me were the faux fur jacket with the leather lining - it's playful, a bit sexy and pretty much plays in to my love for outerwear and the purple tweed dress with leather sleaves was simple and again mixed my love of wool and leather. There was some gorgeous trousers in the collection that I would like to see more of. I can't really talk about the show without talking about Moore's finale piece. A shreded silk dress with intricate beaded detailing. While the rest of the collection was very classic sulty in shapes - this peice has a more grunge feel - contrasting with it's luxury fabrics.The show had this great atmosphere. With the collection inspired by the sexy powerful woman of gangster films, the Scottish edge came through more in the textiles and the entertainment - the excellent Gillian Frame on violin with the talented Mark Brendan Farmer of 17th Century on vocals. Admittedly I was disappointed not to see any prints - something that I feel Moore excels in and would have been wonderful to see this translated here. That said the collection overall feels more mature, and not so much a change in direction but a growth for Moore. His designs remain youthful but feel more refined and polished. Without a doubt one of Scotland's ones to watch.

on drowning in flames shu uemura christmas palette review

2011-11-02T16:30:00.008Z

Oh god is it November already? Feels like I can't walk in to a shop with out a wee bit of Mariah and someone spraying some over sweet perfume in my general direction. However when my friend Laura invited me in to have a creep at the new Shu holiday collection designed by acclaimed director Wong Kar-Wai I totally found myself getting in to the seaon. I've already pretty much decided that Santa's bringing me the mini brush set for Christmas - and when Laura asked me if I fancied trialing the "Drowning in Flames" palette I was ecstatic. Until I saw the colours.
Don't get me wrong - I have quite the penchant for a very dark purple, but I'm fair as they come by (pale blonde hair, blue eyes) so approaching this very pink palette had me worried if I was going to come away looking like I had the sorest eyes ever.
That said, I've known Laura for a while now - and she's yet to steer me wrong yet - and hell something has to pull me out of my makeup rut of nudes, heavy liner and a red lip so why not start here?
First of all the packaging is gorgeous. Wong Kar-wai is known for being heavily stylised in his direction and you can see this coming through here in the design. The palette feels sturdy and has a decent sized mirror. I've got a soft spot for holographic packaing - they're just the right sort of kitch for me and the yellow and gold colours with glitter is festive without being too heavily seasonal. Snaps for Shu. Also...the name "Drowning in Flames" - it's a bit dark, a bit sexy...it's something that I can get on board with.
The actual product - colour wise you get 4 eye shadows, 1 cream blush and a highlighter. The eye shadows include a very rich royal purple, a lilac pink, a pearlesent baby pink and a gold glitter. The cream blush is a deep red and the highlighter a very very pale almost white yellow. It's very much in essence a party palette.
The eye shadows all apply really well, with a decent coverage and I found that they blend really well. The staying power ain't half bad (your face will last your work night out) - I was particularly impressed by how well the glitter went on, although I did have a little fall down. The pigmentation of the shadows is great and all the colours do compliment each other well. I wore all four at once for funsies, but can imagine using the gold frequently on the inner corners of my eye for party season and the plummy purple makes a nice alternative to black for my smoke. The slighter pink shades I feel I do need to wear them with other colours to avoid looking a bit sore - but I think this is the sort of palette that would definitely compliment someone with warmer colourings - a bit of a tan and/or brown eyes and you're laughing.
The cream blush is quite a berry red, it's a nice colour and again quite festive. It's a bit dark for me, and definitely my least favourite part of the palette. It does have a nice velvety texture, but the brush to apply it with is for it's texture a bit rubbish and you are better off using you're fingers. The highlighter is gorgeous - great for highlighting cheekbones and brow bones and lacks any shimmer so can easily be integrated in my daily make up.
Colour wise this is so far from my usual colours. I didn't find them as harsh as I thought they'd be and was really nice getting a change. The purple and gold are my favourites without a doubt. The colours are very warm and feminine and the palette does pretty much give you what you need for a party eye.
It's not something I would turn my nose up at if this guy was to land in my stocking this Christmas, but at £39, I feel I'd much prefer the "Burning in Water" palette - which more suits my skin tone with lots of blues and silvers. It's great value for money and the shadows are great - and it was nice to try Shu as a make up brand opposed to it's skincare - which I've been sold on for ages. For me, my main issues for this seem to be the colour match, so for my warm skinned beauts - get this on your Christmas list.
You can pick up the Wong Kar-Wai for Shu Uemura in House of Frasers Glasgow or via the Shu site.

on getting my nails did

2011-10-30T18:06:00.008Z

A penchant for nail art but neither the patience or the skill to deliver. That pretty sums up me in a heart beat. Can't wait for nails to try, useless with delicate detailing. The one time I did attempt it was with a pale Chanel mushroom colour with black inverted crosses (stargazer btw.) The brush fell in the pot leaving my to improvise. Not the most powerful of looks. Luckily for me, Scotland's finest nail art expert Tammy of DIY Nails was on hand at the La La Land birthday party...and gurl hooked me up with some sweet nails for the most excellent price of £10.

Pics clearly stolen from DIY Nails - and like my custom Bonnie Bling? Penny if you get the reference.

The designs I opted for were an interpretation of the nails she did for ITCOW. The eagle eyed fashanista may have noticed all our girls were deeked out with 3 different designs thanks to DIY Nails. Blood drips, vampy teeth and gold chains. How did she know? It's pretty much worth noting that Tammy is notorious for doing the rounds of the fairs (Gin in Teacups and GWBP are both pitstops for this talented lass) - but her prepainted nails can be yours to buy for 10 British. La La Land in the west end stocks a wide range including galaxy print, american flags, paisley prints and florals - but you can also order online from her via etsy and check her designs out on tumblr.

on in the company of wolves - our october show: catwalk

2011-10-28T21:13:00.015+01:00

Wednesday night. 10 minutes before doors I'm being talked through the lighting. RGB. White Light. Strobe. God I loved the strobe. Backstage is manic. Girls are still having nails applied, hair dressed and lipstick reapplied. I'm in the DJ Booth next to the Man in Black (Dirty Larry) and Florence To (arguably one of the most talented young VJ's in Glasgow) and it's an hour to catwalk. At some point in the evening I've convinced myself that yes....my kurt geiger's are a brilliant idea before show time. I check the floor. Everyone getting in okay? Goody bags going out? Brilliant. Girls all prepped and primed backstage? Too right. Levi's taking photos while I clutch to my irb bru firey. Tensions are high and I'm pretty much clutching the moleskine for dear life.
The actual show starts. Sound clip from cannibal girls and some strobe...and Sweet Danger starts off the show. I feel myself be able to breath out. We're all go. Lurking in my booth I check everything goes out in the correct order and giving cues to Flo. Ally literally has my back, behind the booth doing last minute checks on girls. I have my girls Emma and Katy backstage and a mix of girls backstage varying in experience from 4 years of working at fashion shows to having dressed only themselves.
Anyway...some how we did it. We had this amazing performance art piece from Claudia Nova and crew in the intermission as well as our short fashion film, and really hope you guys deeked out some of the collages and blood dripped pieces hung by Rachel Sharpe.
Some amazing images have cropped up since, so I thought I'd share a few of my faves. Pics all are watermarked and belong to Duncan Holmes and Lorraine Ross.
All the designers were amazing, but I did have a few fave pieces. Sweet Danger's painted silk maxi halters were something that I had a wee soft spot for, as well as Isolated Heroes green dress with red skeleton sequin outline. Our finale with Bonnie Bling was insane. The Shower Scene was hand stitched and how that even came together and looked as good as it did was beyond me. I was pretty stoked at the BB & Raksa piece called "Drowned" which featured the blood drip bracelet. WANT THE BLOOD DRIP BRACELET.
Anyway this is the first of what I imagine will be a few posts about the evening that will creep up but you really should check out our ITCOW facebook for more prime photos as well as updates about all the amazing designers that took part.

on ITCOW, sleeping forever and our fashion film

2011-10-27T16:15:00.003+01:00

Everything hurts but everything went well. Pretty sure Ally and I need a week of sleep after last night but for most part, that's everything done.
I promise that things will return to normal - with a review of the ten30 show, a bit about the ROX event, how my stint guest lecturing and a more in detail play by play of last night.

Anyway I'm off to sleep forever. Or at least till La La Land's Birthday bash tonight....

Enjoy final cut of our fashion film

Clothes: Athif Dean, Bonnie Bling, Raksa and Aimee Donofrio. Nails: DIY Nails, MUA: Claudia Nova Hair: Rainbow Rooms Filmed: Artist Media

A thank you to all the models, volunteers, designers who take part. To the Sub Club, to Florence To (visuals) Larry Wilson (tunes), Claudia Nova & Rachael Sharpe for their art, our hair and make up teams, all our sponsors and of course our interns Emma and Katy.
A special thank you to my partner in crime Turnbull. The other half of ITCOW who is just amazing.

#gushovertimeforrest

on in the company of wolves fashion film teaser

2011-10-21T08:57:00.007+01:00

Yesterday Ally and I made our way to the offices of the amazing boys over at Artist Media to have a look at the first cut of the In the Company of Wolves Fashion Film. It was a long night, but we had a super talented team and we're both REALLY pleased how the film looks.
We've even got ourselves a wee teaser, red over it so we don't give to much away but oh it's oft exciting.

I can't beleive In The Company of Wolves is 5 days away. I'm sure there is LOADS I still need to do (and trust me there is) - but for the most part I'm feeling really positive about everthing. The fashion film looks great, the clothes look amazing ad all the press we've been getting has been really sweet. It's worth noting that La La Land in the West End turns 1 next Thursday and at her birthday launch will be bringing new Scottish designers from ITCOW in store - for some as their first Scottish stockist. Exciting non?
I'm sorry to ramble on about it, I'm just quite pleased how everthing is going - I mean it's completely mental, but I really do love it.
You guy buy tickets for the show at Ticket Scotland here.

on the month I never slept (itcow behind the scenes and other happenings)

2011-10-18T09:01:00.010+01:00

I've never been so busy in my life. Well, that's a bit of a lie. I've just not been that busy for a couple of months. In the company of Wolves is just over a week away and currently in the process of sourcing some dressers as well as my actual "to do for event" list which is as long as my arm. GANT charts at the ready eh ladies? We did the fittings on Sunday down in Soba and I was dashing around making a note of who was wearing what and in what order, answering questions and the like. Every now and then someone would see me scribbling away in my moleskine and mentally checking stuff off in my head.
"Are you stressed?"
God. For the first time in my life I can say no. I felt very calm and in control, and while I may not have been able to sit down and chat with everyone as I'd like to, I was just very busy. It kind of hit me that 2 years ago I'd have been freaking out, flapping my arms and working myself in to a frenzy. It's now become a "constantly working" thing. Of course I get a few spanners in the mix now and then and I get a bit anxious, but for the most part, we're very very lucky over at ITCOW towers where like 99% of our problems are solvable.Inbetween all this ITCOW madness has been dissertation time (some of my reading picked out, a strong research proposal, but no actual pen to paper as of yet) as well as a PR project f0r Bar Soba. It involves me teaching myself origami. Fucking idiot. I think the one thing that I'm really really excited about though is that I'm guest lecturing this week at Glasgow Caledonian. First years on fashion and events. I've always flirted with going in to academia, so being asked to come and have a wee chat with students about what I do, how I do it and what's going on in Scotland is amazing. I try not to think about how nervous I am.
I'm sure all these feelings of serenity will disappear closer to the time, to be replaced by excitement and a good deal of anxiety, but after the fittings we had at the weekend, I feel like I've scored one big old task off my list. Here's a couple of sneaky pics Dawn Smith took on her phone for your enjoyment....
You can buy tickets for In The Company of Wolves here.

on galaxy print shoes from dawntroversial

2011-10-16T22:17:00.006+01:00

It's no secret over in Stuart towers that I have quite the fondness for a galaxy print. There is an alternative reality where instead of events I'm chilling with Patrick Moore, chinning the wag about The Sky at Night. Anyway it's pretty safe to say that I was fair delighted to find out that we in Glasgow had a fancy lass painting up shoes in my fave print. A wee bit more pleased when she got in touch about having her shoes used in the next ITCOW.
Dawntroversial Shoes - brain child of Glasgow girl Dawn Smith, is hand painted custom shoes. Glitter and stars and swirly night skies set the back drop for her shoes. Think peep toes, wedges in boots in vermilion's, cerise and chartreuse. Dawn's a fascination with space and astrological photography is a life long passion - and her galaxy inspired shoes are obviously very close to her heart. Inspired by meteorites, swirling nebula's and colours her shoes offer a unique addition to any shoe fiends wardrobe.
What I like about Dawntroversial is the sense of fun that comes with the collection. The shoot with the super talented Laura McKinnon features some gorge models looking like something straight out of a 50's sci-fi movie playing with the shoes, wearing them on their shoulders, hands and the like. For me it works.
It's hard to believe Dawn's only being in business for a couple of months - with articles in The Edit and Creative Boom - her galaxy inspired shoes have captured the imagination of us Glasgow girls. I can't wait to see them on the catwalk for ITCOW....and no doubt I will be batting my lashes at the boyfriend come anniversary time. My fondness for the pink glitter Hollywood shoes is pretty set to go down in history as one of those epic loves.
My love affair with shoes is becoming an issue.

You can order yourself a pair of custom shoes from Dawntroversial through her facebook page - prices are kicking around the £75 - no bad for a custom pair of shoes eh ladies?

on hand shadow jewellery

2011-10-16T15:11:00.000+01:00

I'm not a big jewellery person. Well okay I am. I like anything gold. I like chains - sticking to my bog standard pieces of jewellery that I wear near enough every day (my gran's eternity ring and various long chain necklaces.) That said I heavy enjoy a bit of perspex, and when I stumbled across the work of Inca Starzinsky I couldn't help but fall in love with her quirky shadow animal silhouette designs. The acrylic pieces are laser cut and each come in bespoke envelopes and boxes with illustrations of the hand positions used to make the animals! How cute!
Even better....her rings are available in Glasgow in one of my favourite indie boutiques Welcome Home (based in the CCA near Sleazy's on Sauchihall Street) for the most reasonable price for £15. May be a bit early for Christmas but perhaps a cheeky wee stocking filler? Online they have the dinosaur, rabbit, bird and deer. I'd love to see the pendants come to Glasgow, I think the deer is my favourite (very simple) and the frog pendant is cracking!
Any of these bad boys stand out for you?

on my first forray in to fashion film (behind le scenes)

2011-10-14T09:19:00.007+01:00

This week has been ridiculous. A mid week visit from the vino fairy probably did not help how ridiculous it was. Either way it's not over yet and the next two weeks are set to be a wee bit hectic. Just the way I like it.
Last night however was completely new ground for me as In the Company of Wolves decided to dip our paws in to fashion film. So we pulled a team together made up of some talented Glasgow folk (the amazing video production company Artist Media, Claudia Nova on make up, Rainbow Rooms sorting some sweet hair and the gorgeous Lauren Andrew modelling.) Armed with a good few garment bags, some false nails, a lot of tape and some sweet perspex jewellery we set to work in the gorgeous St Jude's on Bath Street.It was a pretty long evening, which we expected but was great fun. I'm pretty sure I spent a great deal of the night taking clothes in and out of garments bags! We were very very lucky to get to shoot in the hotel and got a run of a few of the rooms (each room is decorated completely different which is lush, room 4's black and white wall print was definitely a winner for me.) I have to say working on this was the warmest I've ever been in my life. With our team, plus the film lights it made for one roasty toasty shoot. Do not envy Miss Andrew at all. The velvet cape we worked with (which is gorgeous) looked sweltering! The boys from Artist Media were amazing, playing about with lights and getting properly gorgeous shots, and Claudia was always on hand with a touch of powder. If I'm honest I was dreading this video something rotten the night before. The rescheduling had knocked me for six but Ally knew we wanted to do it and definitely motivated me in to feeling it again. Think if it wasn't for her positive energy I'd have been growling away with a pack of cigarettes. But we got it. Everything is on film and ready for editing, so hopefully I'll have a teaser soon enough - and then the film will be ready for the show. I don't want to say too much about last night...but I'll leave you with this image from Lauren's phone from the last scene we shot on the night......

on an interview with Bonnie Bling

2011-10-10T12:44:00.005+01:00

Bonnie Bling - has in the past year has went from relative obscurity to being the name on everyone's lips. The Scottish slang jewellery company set up by friends Mhari Mackenzie and Sarah Richardson in 2010 has went from strength to strength, picking up awards from best product design as well as a collaboration with Obscure Couture, I popped in to the Hidden Lane to chat with Mhari about Bonnie Bling, starting your own business and her latest collaboration Sheeps Clothing.
Bee Waits: So Mhari, let's start with the basics...how did Bonnie Bling all get started?
Mhari Mackenzie: A bottle of wine. It always starts with a bottle of wine. My friend Sarah (Richardson) and I were sitting up one night and we start slagging each other off with all these slang words. We laughed about it and joked about getting it on the necklace. We woke up the next day and were like "that's not actually a bad idea." We got in touch with the product design department at Strathclyde University - and decided to develop the idea with a bit of help from the folk down the lane. We started doing markets like Made in the Shade and developed it on from there.
BW: Bonnie Bling's been very quick to grow - how difficult do you feel it is for young designers to set up shop?
MM: Yeah - it's very difficult. I don't think Bonnie Bling would have grown as quickly as it has if it hadn't been for my experience with Mucky Puddle (Mhari's web and graphic design company). Having that basic business knowledge really helped us figure out how we could grow. We've been very lucky. We started with markets and make a bit of money -took the plunge and put the money back in to getting a stall at a trade show. It was a huge gamble but we won Best New Product and we now have over 13 stockings off the back of it including GOMA, The Transport Museum and Shop of Interests.BW: How important do you feel it is for young brands to have an online presence?
MM: Absolutely essential. People are looking for it these days. There is not a day where I'm not interacting with social media like facebook or twitter, blogging or updating the website. It's so key for designers to have good photos of their products online - the quality has risen to high in how we present ourselves to a market. You'll get lovely products but if they've not got good quality photographs people will pass over them. ASOS marketplace has been great for young designers, especially with street style pictures where you see clothes in real environments. With stuff like being online there are all these programmes like google analytics (which is free and easy to add to your site) that allows you to see how people found you and where your traffic is coming from. The printed media is still important but online promotion and presence for young designers is just invaluable. Things like twitter can just expand you audience with retweets and our newsletter that goes out once a month features events, products and discount codes we have.
BW: You recently used QR codes in a collaborative project - would love to hear more about that.
MM: I work on a side project called Dead Man's Clothes. It's a monthly market with different sellers. We decided we wanted to make the market mobile and interactive so we created temporary tattoos of QR codes for models so people could scan codes with their smart phones and it would take them to a website where they could find out about what the girl was wearing, who it was from and how much it costs. We're doing something similar again for Dead Man's Clothes Halloween event at the Berkley Suite, with a market the next day at the Glue Factory.
BW: Any plans on expanding Bonnie Bling?
MM: Well we do out limited edition designs every season - our winter "Baltic" will be coming back and maybe a few words. I'm going to look in to doing more regional slang - "Quine" "Loony" and "Manny" as well as eventually doing some cockney and yorkshire phrases. I'm working on some "Och Aye" hoodies at the mo - seems like Och Aye has become part of the brand - as well as working on a horror inspired collection for "In the Company of Wolves." BW: You're ITCOW collection is a collaborative piece with your friend Jo Netherey...Sheeps clothing - how did this come about?
MM: Another bottle of wine actually. I've known Jo from Ivy across the road and I loved the horror theme of ITCOW. Jo's always been making clothes - and I asked her if she'd be up for working on a themed collection inspired by 70's horror using organic and recycled fabrics. We're really excited about some of the pieces as we get to go wild with the theme, but we've got this gorgeous reversible dresses we're working on that will be available for sale after.
BW: You've worked on a few collaborations - do you feel that there is a real community spirit in Glasgow?
MM: Definitely. I love collaborating and the exchange of ideas. I've worked with Emily Muir and Obscure Couture, and it's nice to work together and share the spotlight. There is a real community vibe in Glasgow and it does work best for everyone when we all work together. It's a real positive environment to work in.

So yeah - pretty stoked to be working with Mhari & Jo for ITCOW. Tickets are on sale at Ticket-Scotland now and her horror collection will go on sale in La La Land the 27th.

on charlotte taylors s/s 12 fashion film and thoughts

2011-10-06T13:42:00.001+01:00

CHARLOTTE TAYLOR SPRING SUMMER 2012 COLLECTION from Ben Taylor on Vimeo.

Charlotte Taylor's S/S 2012 Japanese inspired collection of printed pieces has been launched and quite frankly I'm quite fond of it. It's no lobster print that's a given but I can get on board with bonzari trees and geometric prints. I can also get behind midi length dresses and a fresh palette of citrus greens and oranges complimented with navy and gold, powder blue and lemon. Taylor's designs are effortlessly girly and very wearable. The looks are very soft and while I'm pretty much over peter pan collars (and they do feature heavily) the hemlines and the geometric prints more than make up for it.

on shu uemura uv under base mousse review

2011-10-05T18:32:00.001+01:00

I'd been dying to try this for ages. The Shu Uemura primer. I've had some bad experiences with primer (the no7 primer that we don't talk about at Stuart towers) and some amazing experiences (I frequently preach the good work of Smashboxes Photo Finish primer) so it's about time I tried something a bit new with a brand I'm becoming quite fond of. Shu Uemura are pretty much traditionally known for lashes and skin care, so I'd never really looked at them as a make up brand but well, they had this primer, and it was a moose. How could I resist?
The design of the container is very clean and minimalistic. It seems a bit clinical to me - reminding me of sun screen. However it's pretty sleek and compact so easy enough to keep in your make up back. They have done limited edition versions collaborating with Japan ease artists which is a lot more fun.
The product itself, well - the first thing you should know about this product is that you need to have a good dollop of control. When scoozing down on the nozzle you get a fair sized ammount of moose. You only need a tad. The moose itself is light and airy - very non sticky with a slight pink hue to it. It goes on fairly translucent, minimising pores and leaving the skin with a nice dewy look. I wouldn't say this primer is strong enough to wear on it's own unless you are blessed with the skin of the gods - but as fair as bases goes it's pretty good. Good even coverage, a nice sized SPF to keep your skin protected and non nasty smells. My foundation definitely lasts a good bit longer when I use this primer. It's worth noting if you're an eyeshadow fan this is a great base for helping colours pop.
That said it's £29 for 64ml - so it's not the cheapest on the market though the amount is a bit more generous to other primer's I've seen within the same price bracket. The fact the moose comes out so freely makes it super easy for you to go through this really fast. I did find the moose texture a bit weird at first...especially because it's so light, but really that's more to it's merit than anything else and once I got my head round it I was most definitely a fan.

Overall: If you're a primer fan with a bit of money to spend Shu is great if you want something different. Matches and betters many similarly priced brands - particularly Benefit. Shu Uemura is available at Space NK and House of Frasers Glasgow.

on a night at the ballet

2011-10-03T07:12:00.005+01:00

"I...just don't get it." The protests of the boyfriend as we watched the preview videos for Scottish ballets Autumn season. "I just can't think of anything more boring that dance set to 1930's pop songs." And so by some miracle I coaxed a disgruntled boy to the ballet. And of course he enjoyed it. Of course he did.
The Scottish Ballet's Autumn season features a double bill Jorma Elo's Kings 2 End and the 1930's inspired Pennies from Heaven. Now I love the ballet but the opener Kings 2 End was not really to my tastes. It was beautiful, stripped back infusion of modern dance and ballet but for me I prefer the whole costume and the narrative and I suppose the spectacle of theatre. Kings 2 End was still incredibly impressive to watch ("Paul he just picked her up with his NECK") and the boy was delighted to hear music from one of his favourite composers - Steve Reich's Double Sextet sound tracking Kings 2 End along with some Mozart. While I may not have necessarily chosen this as the piece to introduce the boy to ballet he came out with a completely refreshed perspective. Partially down to Reich, but for the most part - the ability and strength of the dancers. "Like oxen Claire...." he muttered in to his glass of wine engrossed in the programme. "The control...." and other murmurings would escape him during the interval. Pennies from Heaven was definitely more my style. Gorgeous 1930's costumes and pop songs and strong characters and lots of tiny little love self contained love stories set in a hotel bar. Pennies from Heaven was sensual,playful and bittersweet and lends itself a bit more to my love of costume and drama. The titular piece Pennies from Heaven was gorgeous and the danced between the bell hop and cigarette girl was fun and probably my favourite part of the evening. What I loved was that there was always something going on in the background, it felt very rich. This was the part the boy was dreading and once again he came out pleasantly surprised at how much he enjoyed it, his observations being more "I wish they had played the whole of Minnie the Moocher" and a disgruntled comment about cowboys. "It's just not a realistic portrayal...."

It was a fantastic night and many thanks to Ann & Heather from Scottish ballet for inviting us. We had a lovely time, and I'd pretty much recommend going to anyone. Tickets are priced from £6-24.50 AND if you are under 26, a student or unwaged you can grab a wee ticket for £10 if you buy tickets from noon on the day. With a Streetcar named Desire and Sleeping Beauty on the horizon it's never been a better time to get in to ballet.

on things to do thursday

2011-09-29T12:11:00.006+01:00

Glasgow's bustling with things to do for you this week and here are my top picks to get your Thursday fix
1: Tatty Bon's Freshers Lock In
Those of you familiar with Mr Ben's, 13th Note and Mono will no doubt be acquainted with this little hidden gem. Tatty Bon on Parnie Street returns with it's annual freshers lock in. The doors are open late, cake and fizz is on the table and a sweet sweet discount of 15% for those who spend over £10 (easy done). With the gallant gent from All Tore Up and a whole mess of new stock (loads of gorgeous carpet bags and dress gloves) if you're in to late night shopping do stop on by.
Best for: Head hear if you want affordable one of vintage pieces. Nice blend of wool and tweed in stock as well as fun custom necklaces and broaches. Good for party dresses.
2: Urban Outfitters Lock In
Another lock in...ooo you late night shoppers are spoiled. With an art exhibition from recoat (expect some fucking brilliant street art) and live music from the super talented Kitty the Lion and lots of coffee drop on my here to enjoy a 20% discount and live music.
Best for: getting your brand fix...new APC and Vaudeville & Burlesque stuff is awesome. Grungey or preppy looks rain supreme here.3: The Only Way is Glasgow Fashion Show (TOWIG)
If city centre isn't your thing tonight the Oran Mor will be playing host to TOWIG - the only way is Glasgow - a fashion event and fundraiser for Spirit Aid. With designers from Jeniveve Berlin Millinery, Katerina Lambrou & Nicci.N as well as a host of entertainment defintiely wort a shout if you're in the area. With a host of vintage and jewellery stalls good if you still want to get shopping fix.
Best for: if want to see some Scottish talent on the runway deff worth a shout. Imagine atmosphere will be amazing and it's for a super good cause.

Scottish Ballet: Autumn 11 Part 1 - Pennies from Heaven Trailer from Scottish Ballet on Vimeo.

4: Scottish Ballet Autumn Season Opening
I love a wee bit of the ballet and tonight Scottish Ballet's Autumn seasons launches the gorgeous 30's styled Pennies from Heaven in a double bill with Jorma Elo's Kings 2 End. Both pieces look to be beautifully choreographed and the Pennies from Heaven Trailer already has me dying a bit at the costumes.
Best for: Getting a bit of your culture in innit ;) Good if you enjoy the theatre, music and beautiful costumes.

I'll be trying to make my way round as many of these tonight...def popping in to Tatty Bon early and then ballet with the boy- so expect some form of review of my manic evening later this week.
Top things to do at the weekend at all?

on In the Company of Wolves:The Return

2011-09-27T19:13:00.006+01:00

I'm sorry, I'm so sorry but for the next month, chances are my blogs being going to be littered with ITCOW news. It feels like such a relief to finally release all the details - dates,theme,and designers. A few of you who follow the ITCOW tumblr may have clocked on to the theme a while back but now everything is all glossy and official.
In the Company of Wolves (or more affectionately ITCOW) is a multimedia fashion show run by myself and my friend Ally. Our modus operandi is finding the best in up and coming Scottish independent designers and bringing it to our themed catwalk. We're returning once more to the Sub Club with our biggest show to date with designs never seen before in Glasgow from a bunch of our favourite new designers working the circuit. Expect 60's school girl inspired pieces from Edinburgh's Eleanor's Riot, day of the dead inspired headpieces from Fair Feathered Friend, voodoo brights from Isolated Heroes and uv perspex showpieces from Bonnie Bling. We've got Dirty Larry on decks with Florence To doing some sweet visuals for us. To say I'm excited/nervous is an understatement. This is our biggest show to date with more designers than we've worked with before. I'm so so proud of our team so far and the run up is going to be brilliant. This year we're taking influence from b-movie horror - with a nod to John Carpenter, William Castle, Dario Argento and all things shlock. It's going to be astounding!

Designers//
Isolated Heroes
Bonnie Bling
Isla Scott
Lilly Love Lock
Jenivieve Berlin Millinery
Jennie Loof
Linzi Austin
Fair Feathered Friend
ChouChou
Velvet Elvis
Sweet Danger
Eleanor's Riot
Aimee Donofrio
Helena O'Neill
Athif Dean
Dawntroversial Shoes

Tickets are on sale now from ticket-scotland at £10 a pop with profits going to charity.
You can buy tickets here
You can go like the ITCOW page here and read more about the event here
Want more info: itcow@live.co.uk or beewaits@live.co.uk
Flyer design by 100th idiot.

on DIY nails for ITCOW

2011-09-22T22:52:00.004+01:00

A few of you know that I'm busy over at ITCOW Towers (read my living room) - the photo shoot is done and now it's just over a month away so everything is starting to get a little more manic. One little project we've been excited about it the fact that one of my favourite Glasgow nail artists Tasmin of DIY Nails (you may have seen her at Gin in Teacups...nail brush in hand) has designed an In the Company of Wolves inspired nail for our next show and it is sick as anything.She's got a few more pieces up her sleeve on the run up to ITCOW but this...this really is the show stopper for me. Gold glitter, red and pink, gold chains, drippy goodness. Please let me know we're all on the same page that this is pretty much straight up nail porn?
When she's not designing sick as fuck nails for ITCOW this girl is running pretty much the best nail blog in Scotland featuring nail tutorials on american flags, marbling, magazine print and the like as well as selling her sweet designs on etsy - see watermelon's, galaxy prints and cupcakes.
One talented lady that I'm super excited to be working with...can't wait to see what other designs she's going to be working on for the event..and don't worry lovelies I will be keeping you all up to date!
You can buy yourself a set of nails from Tas here
Like DIY facebook
Go follow the tumblr goodness for nail porn and nail art tutorials

on obscure couture us vs them

2011-09-19T16:10:00.007+01:00

It's been a long time coming - Obscure Couture's new SS12 collection "Us Vs Them" is finally here. Inspired by bucky swilling, street fighting gang culture - the new collection is a mix of bright tartan prints, metallic leathers and hand-painted silk. While still in keeping with a very glam punk aesthetic gang culture couldn't be further from their previous Victoriana inspired "Flesh and Bone." Still their is something gloriously British and trashy (in the best way) about the designs - and while not for the faint hearted (the blood maxi with the leather bustier is bringing all sorts of Carrie flashbacks for me over hear) that is part of their charm. The clothes are fun and bright and can go from being street wear to more elegant, but on their terms. It's a mixture of bows and bat wings and slashed tops covered in paint. The knit wear is amazing- personal favourite is the cropped hot pink "Fuck You" jumper. The tongue is planted firmly in the cheek with this collection and it's brilliant, all the pieces owing their names to gangs and gang culture. It's all pinks and reds (one of my fave colour combos) yellows and whites and greens and it's just so far off from everything else that it's just like a big old breath of fresh air. Yes I want a pair of metallic red trousers with oversized buttons. Yes I know I'd be lucky to get my arm in them...but it's one of those things on the wishlist where I've stopped myself from only buying basics and spend it ALL on metallics and sequined shoes.The girls hard at work in le studio, bag of fabric samples. McCoys - a work room staple.

I'd popped in to the studios a few times on the run up to fashion week -hot pink walls adorned with daft poems, caricatures, inspo and to do lists....and it was amazing. You'd come down one day and they'd have these giant crazy buttons for the worlds tiniest and shiniest trousers...or hand painted silk drying out front. Even on a social call there was never a time I came down for a vino and a natter that these girls weren't answering emails, pattern cutting, splattering t-shirts, customising shoes or thinking of names for new pieces....Death Valley Brawlgown? DEFO A FAVOURITE. So congratulations to two of the hardest workers and partiers I've had the pleasure to meet - the new collection is astounding and you can creep it for yourselves here - here be some of my highlights.

"Blood" - Red hand painted silk and leather maxi, "Bakassi" - Hand painted silk and leather play suit and "Cyto" Red leather bra top with "Scuttlers" Tartan paper bag trousers with red leather bow belt.
All runway photos by the talented Laura McKinnon

on wasp style

2011-09-16T18:38:00.011+01:00

I have a very good boyfriend - who indulges my need for coffee table books. Big thick impressive books that pretty much take up my entire front room. All glossy and crisp and wonderful. Sometime's he'll have a flick through them (one on new romantic fashion...where he pouted and moaned about David Sylvian's absense.."the epitome of new romantic style" he waxed - my boyfriend the secret fashionista) while sometimes he will support my habbit by buying me lovely lovely books. The latest one to my collection thanks to the bo was "Celebrating Wasp Style: A Privileged Life" by Susanna Salk. It is pretty much the perfect book on preppy culture ever. It's no "Take Ivy" (60's ivy league chaps in boat shoes being dead handsome) nor is it the "The Preppy Handbook" but it features double spread pages of ladies in twin sets and men in coloured blazers, and horse riding and recipes for Bloody Mary's. Sports uniforms and polo shirts and cashmere and pearls and yeah...it's pretty lovely.I loved it...and sure the big old glossy pics are lovely but it's also a good jumping off point for finding out more about the whole culture behind it - lifestyle, homes, icons and fashion. It's available on amazon just now for just shy of £20 so if you're feeling flush and fancy spending a bit of dollar on prime coffee table material you can't really go wrong.

Anyway I'm off for a weekend of boyfriend birthday celebrations, drinking far too much tea and reading Moran's How to be a Woman (yes Glasgow, I am the mad woman cackling on your stairway at the chapter about vaginas.) Another one of my essential reads, not for the glossies but for the lols. Have a fancy weekend lovelies!

bold souls pre-LFW pop up

2011-09-14T15:59:00.003+01:00

Can't afford to go to London? Me neither. I'm not saying I'm not going to be enjoying LFW coverage on le old blogs and twitter, but for the most part most of this fashion chat seems to happen south of the border - which is why Bold Souls pre London Fashion Week pop up this Thursday is such a splendid idea. With time and travel funds being a bit of an issue for me at the moment - having a city with a culturally rich and diverse fashion community certainly eases on the old purse strings and lifts the spirits. Featuring some old faces - ChouChou returning with their signature Holly Hoods, as well as some welcome newbies like Eleanor's Riot and their 60's school girl inspired designs - Bold Souls remains innovative and fresh - allowing us Glasgow lasses a chance to see our fave (or soon to be faves) indie designers up close and personal. What I love about this event is the chance to chat to the designers, learn a bit more about the craftsmanship...oh and of course the trying on all the lovely things. Buying direct from the designer is a wonderful concept and I love finding out about some Scottish talent that's off my radar. If you're in to you're indie fashon and have a spare 3 punds to your name, head down to the Arches cafe bar, 15th September between 4pm and 9pm.

on design collective scotland

2011-09-13T21:39:00.009+01:00

Last Thursday I was lucky enough to make it a long to the launch of Design Collective Scotland in Merchant Square. While I'm sure the lure of free champagne and celeb spotting (Wagner in a tartan suit anyone?) has it appeal - for me it was a great opportunity to see what it happening in Scotland's fashion scene among some of my favourite emerging designers. It is no secret that I'm a great advocate for design within Scotland - and we have an astounding textiles industry and our teaching facilities are astounding, so when the uni gloves come off and the career hat comes on - why is it that so many designers flog to London?

Di Gilpin and Mark Ross

We've seen with the emergence of the Scottish Academy of Fashion, the Scottish Fashion Awards and various brands within Scotland over the past few years trying to push Scottish design to the forefront, and while it feels like a bit of a slow burn over the past few years, we're finding more and more people pushing to support,promote and keep the talent within Scotland.

And I suppose that is where Design Collective Scotland comes in. Co-directed by four of Scotland's finest up and coming, Iona Crawford (elegant clean cut silk prints) Emma Lamb (classic timeless footwear) Mark Ross (gorgeous draping and LOTS of colour with this collection) and Di Gilpin (beautifully crafted knit.)

Iona Crawford

The collective are a talented bunch of like minded individuals each with their own specialism who are keen to promote talent within Scotland - and bringing to the forefront the high end luxury design that exists within. The collections were astounding - personal favourite was Mark Ross and his use of gorgeous citrus colours. Definitley brightened up my dreary evening if nothing else.

Mark Ross

All pics courtesy of Daniella Flores Photography - was lovely to finally meet her!

on goth birthday parties, lilac hair and work preview

2011-09-09T09:38:00.005+01:00

It's been a busy couple of weeks over here for me at Stuart Towers. Birthday times, ITCOW times and various other bits and bobs. That said in the past week I've never had it so good on the dining stakes. Two steak lunches in a week? A trip to Rogano for the mother? DON'T MIND IF I DO. Seriously though....back to the gym for me - may need to book myself back in to the dreaded spin after my week of cake and cocktails.
A few of you tweeties (and gals I know via the old facebook) will gave known I've jumped ship blonde (for now) and went a frosted lilac. Tried various dyes because...well I have all the hair in the world.Recommendations? Go for a cheap goth colour. I know Salon Services is oft seen as the go to place for hair dye, but for semi-permanents with unusual colours without dropping top dollar you need to visit a goth shop. Crazy Colour is about £7 a bottle and just doesn't cover my hair the way I need it to. A trip to Osiris and Directions AND Stargazer both do lilac shades (and pretty much any colour you desire, including candy floss pink) for £3 a time. Comes with gloves and everything and is super simple to use. Years of living in the adult shades of auburns,hazels and blondes had me forget my roots.
The birthday time will suprise none of you - Elvira inspired gothy affair with some of my favourites, drinking punch, shooting the breeze and eating skull cake (which I made thank you very much.)
Now AS EXCITING as my hair colouring and birthday escapades are, I do actually do things other than drink out of ostentatious punch bowls and bake cake. Currently my flat is just a dream of latex,lace,sheer and studs. If you haven't guessed yet...I have bits and pieces from most of the In The Company of Wolves designers floating around my flat after our shoot on Wednesday. You should have seen me Tuesday evening ladies. I was having beautiful things delivered to my flat almost on the hour. My poor flatmate felt the need to go buy a steak and some beer as our living room transformed in to a palace of indie fashion dreams. The actual shoot day was fantastic - having a car to work with was a live saver. Our team was amazing and Ally and I can't thank everyone enough - Levi and her sweet photo skills, Taz our beautiful model (I don't think that girl took one bad picture...EVER) and the amazing Kaeleigh Wallace for her hair and make up skills. A special thank you to our ITCOW intern Emma Q who looked after the clothes, Taz and had a wee dab at styling. Anyway...thought I would give you ladies a wee preview pic that doesn't give too much away but..well.

I cannot tell a lie, I have never been more excited for an ITCOW...(I say this every time.) I feel it is worth noting we're hosting a model casting at Bar Soba next Monday between 4-7. The page for the whole affair you can find here.

on sebastian kim - photo inspiration

2011-09-06T19:30:00.001+01:00

Another pe-schedueled post...I know I know I'm terrible, but tomorrow we're shooting promo images for In the Company of Wolves, and odds are I'm running about like a mad woman/am recovering from a hard weekends birthday drinking/have not slept in a fortnight. Please do take your pick. A night before shooting will include : making playlists (R.Kelly, Outkast, City High..all musts) and sarnies for a long day shooting. What would a day of shooting be without some inspiration? So yeah...Sebastian Kim's shots of Constance Jablonski for Numbero #120. FLAWLESS.All images fashiongonerogue.

on giveaway winner

2011-09-05T20:39:00.003+01:00

Random.org has spoken (an eve of typing all your lovely entries in) and I am super stoked to announce the gorgeous lass SJ from cowbiscuits as the winner. You're treats will be in the mail in only a matter of time sweets and thanks to all you gorgeous things for liking,entering and following my blog. You guys are amazing!

on brb birthday break - enjoy some lanvin

2011-09-03T14:35:00.000+01:00

Oh I do love a pre-made post.
Chances are as you read this I'm doing all the good birthday things. Like high tea with the best friend. Elvira themed party drinks and eats at the flat before the dancing. Eating cake made by the cake boss and dancing like an utter BAMF. Until my return I give you pretty much my favourite fashion film of the season so far. You are welcome.

on arbonne re9 anti-aging review

2011-08-31T18:08:00.001+01:00

A few weeks ago a friend of mine got in touch and asked if I wanted to try out some new beauty products from Arbonne. Sure..I thought, why the fuck not? Little did I know that being over 21 put me right in to the super fun "anti-aging" skin care category. Do not get me started on this. I'm not even 23 yet and you want me to worry about wrinkles? NOW?!?
That said....this range ain't half bad. The set includes a cleansing face wash, a spray toner, day cream, serum, night cream and neck cream. Extensive to say the least - and you know what, way too many products than I have the time to deal with twice a day. Call me lazy...but cleansing,toning and moisturising is enough. Having to incorporate serum, eye cream and neck cream is far more than I need to worry about right now. However - while the range is a bit intense for me - there was definitely bits and bobs I liked about this collection.
First and foremost I really liked the serum. I've NEVER used serum before but I really enjoyed this. It had a nice fresh feeling and really felt that it gave my skin a boost. It has a lovely gel texture opposed to a cream, and while I don't have cash money to keep up this kind of extensive skin care habit - the arbonne serum has made me reconsider my thoughts on serum. I mean I can live without it, but if I had the money I'd be all over this like a bad rash. The second product I really enjoyed was the cleansing face wash. It has this lovely orange scent that isn't too over powering and I felt that it cleansed my skin pretty well. Snaps for arbonne.
That said - I was overwhelmed by the toner. The whole spray on aspect of something is just something that I'm not crazy for and can't see myself getting on board any time soon. I prefer my toner being delivered with a cotton pad thank you very much. I wasn't overly crazy for the packaging either...though I feel this has more to do with the RE9 range than Arbonne is general as I love the sleek minimalistic design of their make up range. I also feel that the size of the containers is a bit off as large bottles contain actually relativley small ammount of product. Feels a bit unecessary.
Overall though Arbonne's RE9 anti-aging range is nice enough. It made my skin feel fresh and I really enjoyed the smell. The products are good quality - though as I only trialed it for a couple of weeks the long term benifits for my skin are a bit more difficult to read. As a brand - I'm not crazy for the way it's marketed through representatives. While I've never been pressured to buy it still is not a set up I'm crazy for. That said representatives do allow you to trial the products before you buy which is always nice - but it's one of those things I would prefer behind a counter than from one of my friends.

on a house is not a home

2011-08-30T18:35:00.000+01:00

David Black is pretty much one of my favourites - and when he teamed up with the girls from G2E Events and Evita of Start Pronto he brought to Glasgow an innovative fashion exhibition in his first independent presentation "A House is Not a Home." What I loved about this event was that it showcased fashion in a new format other than traditional catwalk or fashion film (though I do love these presentations.) The Old Hairdresser's became a set deranged housewives house. You could really feel the despair. The models walked in a disjointed manner, detached from the characters trauma as she wonders through her derelict living space. With smeared lipstick and mascara stained cheeks the entire presentation felt really cohesive. Also...there was a lot of black. APPROVED. I love Black's exploration of dark suburbia with his classic vintage cuts - and I was swooning away at his black lace skirt. The exhibition was gothic and moody and just wonderful.
David returns to Heriott Watt this year to finish his final year. I CANNOT wait to see what this boy has in store for all of us.
More pics on the itcow tumblr - thanks to my wonderful lass Emma.Q.

on linda farrow and agent provocateur

2011-08-29T17:57:00.008+01:00

It's that time of year where it's time for me to get some new specs. Not that I don't love my big old black frame (love them in fact - thank you very much glasses direct)...but my eyesight has improved (thank god for small miracles) and my right eye has gone a bit mental with something called a astigmatism, not going to pretend I know what that is but believe me I've been using it as an excuse to indulge in some sweet sweet spectacle porn. This has included more than the odd lustful glance towards Glasgow's Niche Optical Tailor, but when I saw Linda Farrow et Agent Provocateur (together at last) on High Snobette my heart did many many skippy little beats.On lust list - in order of appearance: "Ride Me", "Desire Me" and "Spank Me." How can I not love specs with names like that? I'm pretty sure every single one of these guys is outwith my budget....glasses direct again for me then?

on in the company of wolves 2011

2011-08-24T15:22:00.007+01:00

Oh the shameless self promotion. You of those who follow me on twitter will be more than aware by now that I'm currently in process of putting together another In the Company of Wolves with my soul sista and co-director Ally.
Pic Credits: Brian Shannow, Grant Alexander Mcdonald, Stuart Crawford
Designers:Rebecca Torres, Mark Conlin, Obscure Couture

A few of you are familiar with the set up of In the Company of Wolves (or ITCOW for short.) Basically we're a multimedia fashion show who showcase Scottish independent designers. The shows are boutique and intimate in nature (tickets limited to 250) and we always try have some theme to the event - just in the way of marketing, dressing of venue, make up and hair. In the past we've taken influence from dark fairytales, David Lynch and Japanease pop art....and we're gearing up for another show with brand new designers and brand new collections later in the year. Can't drop too much info yet but I'm crazy excited about some of the people I'm getting to work with. After winning an event award last year and getting to bring ITCOW to Glasgow Film Festival this year so far it's been one hell of a journey.
Profits go to charity which is always fun and we've got to work with some really great brands in the past (Illamasqua, Rainbow Rooms, Urban Outfitters, L'Oreal to name a few) so quite excited about this next guy.

This year I've also got myself a fully fledged intern - which is super surreal and awesome. While she promises to make coffee and keep me in a zen state, she's looking after some of my admin and bits of our social media, which frees up time for me to worry about budgets, event design and oh dissertation time. I'm someones boss now though. There is a scary thought. Her name's Emma and you should follow her on tumblr. She is quite the lass.

For updates and the likes of ITCOW and for creeps you can follow our tumblr (hints to our next show and folk we'll be working with) stalk us on facebook, or read our redic tweets.

EDIT: Oh yeah... itcow@live.co.uk -designers,models and the like...we want you to get in touch.

on 8 bit fashion designs

2011-08-23T15:32:00.006+01:00

So yeah some of our favourite catwalk looks (I say our like I speak for the entire world...obv) from this year have been stripped down in to wonderful kitchy 8 bit. Can we file this under the world of things that I am more than okay with? 8 bit Pugh, McQueen and Comme de Garcons. Mixing 8 bit with the Fashionairy templates has pretty much produced this little bit of eye candy for me. Not going to lie...some of these guys would look pretty sweet above my fireplace.
So....do we recognise any of the looks all stripped down?
Clearly left my favourite till last. More pics can be found here- and the prints are available to purchase in A0 or A1 on heavy weight matter paper.

on friday feline fix

2011-08-19T21:09:00.007+01:00

I'm sorry to let you all know that I am the kind of person who finds tiny cats in costumes adorable. I mean we're all familiar with the glory/horror that is kitty wigs right? Well yeah....this is a step back from giving your fluffy friend a new doo in "pink passion" (personal fave btw) and all kinds of precious. I say precious mostly because it's a scottish fold. A scottish fold dressed as a Queen. With tiny little rosebuds.
Anyway Vice released a book of cats in fashionable duds, from the "premier cat tailor" Takako Iwasa. Takako's from Japan and is all about the kitty couture. Outfits for kitties include "frog transformation set" and "shawl of a rabbit"and my favourite "Queen's Coat." Scottish folds in tiny costumes. This is something I am okay with. You can buy Fashion Cats on amazon for just under 7 and a half of your best british pounds here. Vice did the single best interview with Takako with MORE kitty pictures. Consider this your Friday feline fix.

on eye jewellery (you are doing it right)

2011-08-19T16:11:00.000+01:00

I'm going to pretend that the relevation of my love of eye jewellery is a big old suprise to the lot of you. Not that I haven't frequently cooed at anything with eyes that creeps on my newsfeed...or continiously dropping hints to the boyfriend about getting me some Butler & Wilson (my sister picked up on the hint a few years back and got me the crystal eye ring)...but it is my beleif that a lady cannot have enough kitch jewellery - featuring heavily in eyes and cats. Actually...include in this guy lobsters, chilli peppers, skulls and studs but eyes and cats feature quite heavily in my collection. Anyway browsing a wee bit of Topshop one eve (compiling birthday wishlists...preparing myself for the inevitable 20% student discount evening) when holla bitch....that is some sweet eye jewellery you got going on Topshop. 2 necklaces and a broach. I APPROVE.

Picture Eye Necklace £20, Spiky Eye Necklace £18, Spiky Eye Broach £10

Long time followers will know I have a kind of weird relationship with silver coloured jewellery. I'm an old fashioned girl and I like gold...and pearls. Silver just isn't something I feel I suit (I can hear the naysayers not..how can you not SUIT silver)...well yeah. THIS right hear solves my problems. Eyes and gold together at last.

on haus of willow rhinestone shoes

2011-08-17T20:31:00.009+01:00

Yes I'm aware these guys have been featured all over the internet lately...but it is my sworn duty to post about these bejewelled beauties. There is....a small part in my brain that tells that I'm not really into rhinestones. This part of my brain is a horrible lie. Well..half lie. I don't like them on tshirts...but on shoes. On shoes it is most good. So these guys sneaked up on my dash from etsy seller Haus of Willow and boy I was sold. OH and yeah...they are like under £50.
Looking at these bad boys I keep having fantasies about buying hunners of crystals (or prying apart all my old primark jewellery) and going gun ho with the glue gun. Naturally this is the only way to go.
I don't even want to imagine what the post and packaging would be like on these guys but I totes want to make a pair for myself. If you are too lazy....or not crafty and have some cash dollah you can always buy them here.

on grindhoose

2011-08-16T16:42:00.005+01:00

Saturday night I bagged myself a cheeky wee night off. Now what's a gal to do in her city on a Saturday night? Head to the club and get "tipsy", stay in with some Buffy and a bottle of vino and nachos - all excellent options to be sure - OR I could head to Glasgow's very first pop up grindhouse cinema experience Grindhoose.

Set upstairs in the Old Hairdresser's opposite Stereo, Grindhoose was all about bringing the NY gritty feel of 70s grindhouse cinema to Glasgow. With some sweet trailers (Combat Cop anyone?), two secret films and zombabe usherettes it seemed like a fairly good shout for a Saturday night. Oh aye...and it was free.

Natch I headed there early...if only for the sweet sweet space porn (I'd some how avoided the Old Hairdresser's since it reopened and has NO idea about the space upstairs)..but also cause hell who doesn't love a good bit of surprise cinema, and quite frankly it's really refreshing to see something on a Saturday night opposed to be usual options (shots/cinema/in with the telly.)
The Grindhoose Cinema, The Zombabe Usherettes getting their faces "did", my bloody nails - nail art, this is the extent of my skills.

The event had a really organic punk d.i.y feel to it - everything pulled together on a budget of sweet fuck all by some die hard film fans. The atmosphere for the whole night had a community vibe - people wooping, clapping, cheering and the like a long with the films. Yeah...it was pretty awesome.

So what did they screen? First up was Turkey Shoot - which I can only really describe as a futuristic dystopion prison movie with lots of eyebrow acting and a fabulous bitch who rode horses, wore far too much eyeshadow and carried an exploding shot gun. I understand my love for her maybe had me missing the entire point of the film but god damnit if she didn't make me want to learn to ride a horse. The second film was the Filipino action/comedy film - "For Your Height Only" starring Weng Weng. The film serves as a pastiche of pretty much every Bond movie you've ever seen. And it's ridiculous. Oh the gadgets and their ridiculousness.

Great night filled with great people - and a real must for cinema enthusiasts. While I enjoy the character or the Hairdresser's would be great to see this in a bigger venue and more of these pop up cinema events in Glasgow. I'd suggest liking Grindhoose on facebook if underground cinema is your thang and you fancy finding out more about these kind of guys.

(P.S for those of you who care - for my nails I used Load (white) and Throb (red) from Illamasqua. It's still holding out pretty well!)

on sweet giveaway time

2011-08-12T16:56:00.006+01:00

That's right guys, it's giveaway time - to thank all my lovely readers old and new for keeping up with my ramblings. It's mostly bits and bobs I've gathered myself, but Lynne from Tatty Bon donated a couple of pieces of gorgeous custom jewellery for you crazy cats. So here is what is up for grabs.
-Alphabet of Fashion Postcard book
-Urban Outfitters purse
-Urban Outfitters stud earrings
-MAC lipstick in russian red
-Glittery galaxy cat ring from Tatty Bon
-Double heart necklace from Tatty Bon (not fancy doll parts and not mind waiting a while - can be customed to what you'd like in the scroll and avilable in pink,red and green crystals.)

So what cha got to do to win some sweet things?
Follow Bee Waits on blogger and/or bloglovin

For extra entries -
Like Bee Waits for No One on the old facebook (+1 entry)
Like Tatty Bon on the old facebook (or add link to Tatty Bon on sidebar for those of you who don't have the old fb) (+ 2 extra entries)
Follow @beewaits on twitter and tweet about le giveaway (+1 entry)

Then leave a wee comment at the bottom with your email, your name and what you've done and I'll be doing a wee draw at the end of August.

on sunscreen and facials - a zen salon review

2011-08-11T11:56:00.004+01:00

There are two things you pretty much need to know about my experience with Zen Salon. First....by the time I left - there were two year olds out there who would be jealous of how smooth my skin was. Secondly microdermabrasian is the single weirdest treatment ever. Not unpleasant. Weird.
When Snooki asked me if I fancied reviewing Zen Salon's, hell yes I jumped at the chance. I love a nice wee spa treatment now and then, and hell any excuse to return to my beloved Burgh. Little did I know that Zen on Tiviot Place was pretty much located next to some of my favourite places (a hop skip and a jump from The Elephant House where J.K wrote Harry Potter dontchaknow) and effectively across the road from the Forrest Cafe. I was a bit late thanks to a super fun combination of the Fringe and festival traffic, but on arrival I was greeted warmly by my therapist Maxine who talked me through the treatments I'd be receiving - including a digital skin analysis and my microdermabrasian facial.
First of all the Digital Skin Analysis. Well I was scared pretty much shitless. As I've recently cut down on smoking drastically I had my fingers crossed for slightly not gruesome results, but there was still part of me in my head telling me that I did indeed have the skin of a 40 year old boot and that there was nothing they could do for me. Any fears were mostly put at ease by Maxine as I placed my head in what can only be described as this looming white chamber - which is apparently the same kind of tech they use on 10 years Younger. A looming white chamber that judges you and your skin. Technology wise (look at me pretending I know a darn about tech) it's quite impressive, taking 3 separate shots of your face and analysing pores, sun damage - permanent and semi permanent, bacteria, spots, wrinkles - you name it this guy looks at your skin then analyses how you compare to other people your age. Things that surprised me and delighted me was that when it comes to spot (NO WAY), wrinkles and pores my skin is considerably better when compared to 100 women. Colour me smug. That said...when they showed me the skin damage. God my skin she crawled. Now my moisturisers and foundations for the most part tend to have an SPF. I love my Laura Mercier...but she is sans sun screen and this put a good helping of fear in to me. Now it's not like there was a grand reveal of - brown spots, they are coming your way - but yeah. That's what it is. The permanant skin damage shows where the damage will show through your skin in a few years time...almost like freckles that will darken. This is pretty much something I'd like to avoid. That old addage about sun screen rings true, and even in Scotland should have at least some SPF on your face. They aged my skin by a couple of years with technology...and as expected it wasn't that drastic (bringing me up to the ripe old age of 25...) so that wasn't as horrible as I'd expected. PHEW. That said...the texture of my skin, lots of little grooves were going to be sorted with my microdermrasian facial.
I was taken through to the treatment room which was all candles and sparkling water. Maxine explained how the treatment worked. the Microdermabrasian treatment uses Diamondtone using diamond tipped wands to smooth out the skin. This is used in conjunction with suction. After cleansing my face I was given light microdermabrasian round the eyes, then a more medium (harder I suppose) treatment around the rest of my face. It was...strange. Sort of like little pucky kisses. You could feel it working and smoothing out your skin (I know I definitely felt it on my nose) and while it was an unusual sensation I can't say that it wasn't entirely unpleasant. After a while it actually gets quite relaxing. Once she was done with the Diamondtone there was a lot of lovely cleansing, moisturising products used on my face - Priori's range which is more of corrective skin care than cosmetic so work deep under the skin. Then I was treated to an amazing arm massage. I swear to God I'd entered the salon on the ceiling, ready to kill...and after a facial and arm massage I felt like I was floating on air.

I think I'm a convert to Microdermabrasian as leaving the salon my skin felt unbeleivable. Friends I met for coffee after were greeted with the welcome "TOUCHMAFACE." With 3 salons located pretty much in the centre of Edinburgh I can't think of any reason not to visit Zen.....other than the hour bus ride. Glasgow salon please?

on heartcore (proudrace)

2011-08-06T17:51:00.000+01:00

I can't look at this collection without thinking of Miles Aldridge and this photo. This is a good thing.
I don't think there are actual words for how much I heavily enjoy the Proudrace new Heartcore collection. It's all religious iconography with really simple elegant shapes. I mean okay the colour palette isn't usually my thing but the focus here is more on the cut and the print - the fringing and the sheer and uft. The smoke grey dress is one of those things I dream about Claire of the future wearing...(Claire of the future who has mastered the art of day time heals and doing her hair.) A lot of the pieces are simple enough that the could be integrated in to a wardrobe without being boring. That said nothing with a Jesus print is going to be boring. Call it a bit tacky but it's a soft spot for me - like anything with cats, black and gold and sheer.
While religious iconography can be seen as tacky - I feel that Proudrace avoids it here with it's muted and simplistic colour palette. It remains edgy without being garish. Brava.

on bold souls anniversary edition

2011-08-04T18:05:00.000+01:00

Bold Souls, Glasgow's favourite fashion pop up shop celebrates a year of supporting Glasgow's indie fashion scene. This time setting up shop in Glasgow's Arches cafe bar - the anniversary edition will be featuring old favourites such as David Black, ChouChou and Jennie Loof as well as my favourite Glasgow girls Obscure Couture and jewellery from Bonnie Bling.
I honestly can't think of a better way to spend a day checking out Glasgow's finest fashion designers in one of my fave venues. The event will be running from 12-6 on the 6th of August with tickets available for pre-order for £3.

on obscure couture RTW on asos

2011-08-03T09:05:00.007+01:00

Showcasing with Fashion Mavericks in London, a mind blowing launch party and a Scottish Fashion Award Nomination - Glasgow based label Obscure Couture continue on the rise, releasing their diffusion range on ASOS. The ready to wear collection is a more affordable and easier to wear version of the couture featuring leggings, t-shirts, play suits, dresses, cardigans, shorts and skirts of all lengths. Mixing charcoal greys and smoke blacks with baby pinks, golds and oranges - the RTW is pretty much to die for. Prices range from £50-£220. I got myself the deltoid t-shirt at the weekend (first one out of limited batch of 250) and I can vouch for it as pretty much the comfiest guy in the world. Cute print, good material. I will say I got a small which is sized as 6-8 on asos, while I'm a 10. They are quite loose fitting so I'd say size down or size up at your leisure depending on the fit you like. I will of course be nudging boyfriend in the way of the Calcanius cardi for birthday time.....
You can shop Obscure Couture on ASOS here.
It's worth noting the girls will be selling the RTW directly at Bold Souls this Saturday, 12-6 at the Arches.

on clinique 3 step review

2011-08-02T09:11:00.003+01:00

I'm all for spending money on skin care. I mean I'm not saying there are any products out there that are going to work miracles and the best bet any of us have of good skin is eat right and drink lots of water. Oh so much water. But that doesn't mean skin care companies can't give us a helping hand - and a good skin care routine does make a difference. While I'm guilty of using a face wipe on occasion (it's better off your face than on) I'm an advocate of cleanse,tone,moisturise. I just think when it comes to wipes...well wipes are for like surfaces, not your face. That said at £56 for the set - is this the kind of dollar we should be paying out for good skin?
When I first walked in to Clinique a few months ago I was just looking for the moisturiser. I had some extra cash and I remember being quite fond of it. Plus they had that whole offer on where you got loads of freebies which is also quite awesome. Anyway in I went and before I know it I'm whisked in to a seat and grilled on my skin only to find out..."dry/combo." Dry? With my forehead? Apparently so. My cheeks can be quite dry, normal to oily t-zone. After finding out after all this year I'd been treating my skin as if it was normal/greasy I thought - to hell with it. Let's give this guy a try. The 3 step routine features a cleansing soap, toner and moisturiser.

Step 1 - Cleansing Soap: I quite like the cleaning soap - it takes off my mascara a treat, and I find it quite sensitive when I'm rubbing it all over my face. It doesn't really smell too much and has a nice gel like texture that builds up in to a fine lather with water. THAT said - don't think that it really lifts make up as thoroughly as I'd like it. I'm a girl who is short on time most of the time and feel I have to do this step twice to make sure I've got all the make up off my skin.

Step 2: Toner: I really like the toner. It has a slight tingle that is not all together unpleasant and leaves the skin feeling fresh. That said it does go down a lot quicker than the other products even if I am using a titch.

Step 3: Moisturiser: I love a good moisturiser and this guy is pretty good as moisturisers go. It is absorbed easy in to the skin so doesn't leaving me feel greasy or like I have a layer of moisture on my skin. It feels quite fresh and hydrated. I really enjoy the feel of this as well. For dry skin it doesn't feel too heavy. Easily my favourite out of the 3 step plan.

Overall:
I know a few people have found the products a bit harsh on the skin. Personally I didn't find it too abrasive and quite enjoyed it. That said...£56. I'm not sure how much of my skin clearing up I can really credit to Clinique. I feel the 3 Step skin care encourages a cleansing, toning, moisturising habit which will always improve the skin. I've still got a bit left and will continue to use it, and I feel it has helped me get back in to the routine of taking care of my skin properly, but I can't say that I love it or will be buying it again. I'm curious to hear your opinions on this guy though? What's your routine/fave products?
Clinique is available at Boots and any good department store.

Also shameless promotion - In the Company of Wolves now has a facebook, I'd quite like it if you went and "liked" it.