Happy New Year!

Well, it's New Year's Eve and 2011 will come to an end tonight. It's been a fast, eventful year and one that has brought lots of happiness. 

My two beautiful friends Candice and Nicki gave birth to two even more beautiful daughters, Carmen (who I am Godmother to) and Freya. It's hard to express how much love I feel for them - these girls are the sisters I never had so I love them, and therefore love their families and beautiful babies as much. They are very special to me. 

My other very special "sister" finally got her a maaaan! Clarabell, if you are up the aisle before me, we're going to have problems! I don't mean it, you know that, and I hope that you and Mr B are happy together always. Shotgun Chief Bridesmaid. 

2011 also brought me a paid, freelance writing gig for an international fashion magazine - long awaited! Here's to 2012 when it's published. Fingers crossed I haven't jinxed it. I also found myself with a new 9-5. You might call it a promotion, so here's to success!

2011 also brought me some new friends: Karen, Claire and Stephanie, as well as Tweeps Molly, Mark, Sam, Jayne, Shelly, and many, many more who are all lovely, lovely people.

I think that 2011 has been a good year for me, and I hope it has been for you too. I have recognised what I want in life but also what is important: LOVE. May 2012 bring more love, happiness and good health, to one and all. Happy New Year. 

 

Beauty Busters: Carolina Herrera 212 VIP

People, it's party time! Tomorrow is New Year's Eve, probably the biggest party night of the year and have I found the perfect party product for you! Carolina Herrera 212 VIP for men and women.

I first noticed 212 VIP with the TV ad campaign featuring Spanish male model, Jon Kortajarena Redruello and Natasa Vojnovic who are clearly the party VIPS, while other less important people try desperately to get into the party. My friend Stevie is forever singing the song by Marcos Dos Santos, Not on the Guest List. It's the perfect party song, for the perfect party ad. The ad says, "Wear 212 VIP and you can get in to any party." Quite an accolade, but after 30 years in fashion as one of the most adored designers, Carolina Herrera knows how to get (and keep) people interested. 212 VIP is a fragrance that encourages both men and women to enjoy themselves with friends, be flirty and most importantly, have an insane amount of fun!  

The fragrance for women contains musk so is quite alluring, quite sexy (it's the smoky eye of perfumes) while the men's fragrance contains notes of vodka and caviar - a powerful combination for sure. 

Tomorrow, spritz your 212 VIP and get ready to party like Jon and Natasa.

The Antidote to Carb Face

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and have been enjoying lots of parties and fancy foods over the holiday season. I know I have been over-indulging, in food and Champagne and all sorts. My usual regime of exercise and healthy eating has been pushed aside by laziness and gluttony. I officially have Carb Face.

The only thing keeping me going through this chronic overdosing of all things edible is the thought of spring time. H&M's spring/summer catalogue came through my door this morning, with a vibrant Liya Kebede clad in coral, and later I came across the Primark SS12 ad campaign. The bright colours are a symbol of promise, of a lightly tanned face, toned legs and basically feeling and looking healthy. Come January 4th (back to work day) I will be on a detox of ginger tea and lemon with only protein to eat before forcing myself back into my "everything in moderation" lifestyle in preparation for spring. 

Until then, I'll continue to eat carbs while perusing SS12 images as a way to remind myself that soon it will all be over. Kind of sad, kind of exciting.

 

Above left: Primark Menswear SS12 - jacket £28, chinos £12, shirt £10, all available March. Shoes £8, available April.

Above right: Primark Womenswear SS12 - limited edition maxi dress £20, availabable February, wedges £16, available March.

With thanks to Primark. 

Local Treasures: Tiger Lily Boutique

Broughty Ferry has really perked up over the last few months and one of my favourite new clothing boutiques is Tiger Lily Boutique on Brook Street. For a while now, I've been thinking that Broughty Ferry needs a young, trend focused shop (but something unique, not mass produced high street), so I was excited to see that Tiger Lily had opened their doors a few weeks ago. Almost immediately, I popped in to see founder, Debbie McArthur. Debbie, a lovable, friendly and very chatty character, was previously a visual merchandiser for Mango (she travelled all over the UK to assist Mango stores with their in-store styling and window displays) and found that opening her own boutique was a natural progression having had so much experience on the great British high street.

Tiger Lily boutique is a small but totally lovely boutique in the heart of Broughty Ferry and the interior is simple but with pretty, feminine accents such as floral print wall paper and a plush white, high backed sofa near the window. Debbie herself says Tiger Lily Boutique has a girly, shabby-chic vibe and is French inspired; many of her customers comment on how they would love Tiger Lily to be their bedroom and I can see why it would be every girl's dream walk-in wardrobe!

Tiger Lily's stock reflects the boutique's personality. Very feminine pieces which include sheer blouses, printed tea dresses and faux furs with some really pretty necklaces and the odd preppy satchel. Cute label, Sugarhill Boutique, is also stocked at Tiger Lily and is regularly seen on the ultra feminine cast of The Only Way Is Essex - very glam!

For Tiger Lily to open it's doors, Debbie has received support from Business Gateway and Enterprise Zone (Dundee City Council), and says that this along with the support of her family and boyfriend, has been instrumental in establishing her boutique. She loves running Tiger Lily and I can only wish her every success for 2012 - if Debbie continues choosing such fun, flirty and feminine stock I think Tiger Lily Boutique will stay firmly on the Ferry shopping map.

 

With thanks to Debbie for her time and photographs of Tiger Lily Boutique and her very happy (and very pretty) shoppers! 

The Masquerade Ball

Last week, Mr Man and I attended a masquerade ball at The Old Course Hotel in St Andrews. We went with our friends, Karen and Jan, and had such a fantastic evening. It was so festive, and all the party go-ers had made such an effort to get dressed up and find their perfect mask. (There were one or two slightly eccentric outfits, but I'll not go there).

The mask was obviously the pièce de résistance, so Karen and I had planned in detail what we would wear around our chosen masks. Karen's mask was an ornamental bronze mask with swan-like detail, which she found at Mask Boutique and my black metal filigree mask with diamante detail was by Just Posh Masks. They were both absolutely gorgeous and tied with pretty ribbons (no hair dents) - we each have them hanging on our dressing tables as a souvenir.

Originally, I had planned to wear this amazing Harriet dress by Dina Bar-El, which I found on Girl Meets Dress (an amazing site that rents designer dresses for a fraction of the RRP - I also blogged for them on LFW last season) but sadly, it was slightly too big for me. With just 24 hours until the ball, I had only Saturday morning to find myself a dress! Thank the shopping heavens for the Next store in the Overgate - I found a simple black maxi dress with cowl back, and it was just perfect. (It'll also be great with gladiator sandals and boho hair come summer). I wore my high street dress with Jimmy Choos and an Accessorize clutch which was a gift from my best friends. Karen looked amazing in William Tempest, while the boys were ever so handsome in their kilts.

The evening itself was a blast. A delicious three course meal (salmon, beef, chocolate mousse cheesecake thingy) and all evening the wine flowed freely. I stress freely. After that was a spot of dancing (Beyonce and Shakira, Maroon 5, basic cheesy pop with a few Christmas numbers thrown in) including a bit of a ceilidh which was great fun.

Make up:

Clinique foundation

MAC eyeshadow and individual lashes

Benefit BadGal mascara, Erase Paste, High Brow and High Beam

Clarins cream blusher

NARS bronzer in Laguna (the best bronzer ever)

Local Treasures: Lovely Things

Lovely Things is a very new shop located on Dock Street in Dundee. Proprietor, Lynne, has transformed what was originally The Dog Food Store into Lovely Things, a boutique that sells, well, lovely things!

Lynne herself is a really friendly, chatty character and is obviously passionate about interiors and design, as well as mixing vintage pieces with contemporary pieces. Whenever I see her I'm always taken by how gorgeous she is and her relaxed, slightly edgy/slightly cosy style is definitely reflected in her quirky, oh-so-chic shop.

What I first noticed about Lovely Things was the amazing wall paper - slate grey, very modern but with a traditional feel. The dark wooden flooring and print of a world map on the back wall continue the juxtaposition of old versus new, while her stock does the same: a minimalist, contemporary grey, suede sofa in minimalist sits in front of a huge, ornately framed mirror; a traditional gold heart decoration is as equally gorgeous as the funky red and white wooden heart decorations, but completely different in style. What's more is, you can spend hours in Lovely Things and I guarantee you won't come away empty handed, whether it's a gift for a friend or a treat for yourself. The proof is in the pudding - after I had gone to see Lynne for this blog post, my Mum popped in the following day and spent a small fortune!

The Daydreamer Interview: Lynne Duffus of Lovely Things

TDD: What is the ethos of Lovely Things - does it have a certain style or personality?

LD: I think the ethos is “a bit of a mix”. I like to show that there is a place for modern with vintage – mix it up a bit and see what happens – but more than that: just have fun with interiors. If you like it – then it works.

TDD: How do you choose stock for Lovely Things?
LD: Choosing stock is one of the best things about this job for me: I surf the internet for hours and although trade shows are hectic, they are a great source and I still love shopping! I picked up a lot of ideas from the many shops I used to go to when I lived in Buckinghamshire and I’ve brought those ideas back here. I hope people like them too.

TDD: What are the future plans for Lovely Things?
LD: I think it’s early days but I guess I really just want to keep surprising people with the new stock – everyone so far has said such great things about the place that I really want them to always be thinking that and be on top of my game. Sourcing is key – being innovative and creative. And if you’re asking about ambition I’d love another shop!

TDD: Describe your own style.
LD: Vintage Modern Eclectic Emotional Fun


TDD: Do you have a favourite designer?
LD: No is the simple answer. I have lots of designers I admire but not one I like all of the time. I’m a changeable fish! But I do love Osbourne & Little wallpaper and I’m a sucker for a nice chest of drawers covered in Farrow and Ball paint. Kartell gets the thumbs up too in our house – their Ghost chairs are really easy to wipe down after a messy toddler tea!


TDD: And a style icon?
LD: Probably Kirstie Allsop. Don’t laugh! Her Devonshire house is amazing – I love all her handmade touches (not that I have the time to do that myself….) and I do love the way she dresses even though I couldn’t carry that off. I’m probably a cross between Chrissie Hynd and Sarah Beeney the way I dress!


TDD: Any fashion/style tips or secrets?
LD: I am absolutely all about the mixing the old with the new no matter what age or style your house is…just experiment. I have a gorgeous little box my Gran bought me with “Tidy Hair Nets” engraved on one side and two drawers on the other – it has travelled the world with me and looked great in every single home I’ve lived in. When you’ve worked with, or are in, the military and have moved as much as they or I have done – you learn to go with what you’ve got. That and candles. Gotta have candles!


 With thanks to Lynne for her time and images.

Warrior Chic

AMAZE

River Island AW11.

Image courtesy of River Island/PR Shots.

Shoerama

So I'm missing the Jimmy Choo sample sale today. I don't want to talk about it, other than to say I'm consoling myself with fabulous high street shoes. How do you like these Festive Fancies?

 


Above left: Office, £80
Above right: Office, £75

Jewel

On Saturday night, I danced the night away at the masquerade ball at the Old Course Hotel in St Andrews (separate post to come later). On Sunday, I went to pick up my car and took the opportunity to a bit of last minute Christmas shopping (yes, I am all organised this year!) before  visiting Mr Man's Granny, who spoiled me with a gorgeous pashmina and yummy caramel shortbread.

I got something for Mr Man, something for Mum and something for me. You see,  a few weeks ago, I had visited a new boutique in St Andrews, Jewel, in which I found a gorgeous heart shaped ring. I didn't buy it, thinking I had enough jewellery (can this be true of any woman?!) and the ring has been on my mind ever since. I popped by Jewel yesterday and decided that if the ring was still there, it was fate. Guess what? The ring and I were meant to be - I bought it yesterday with no hesitation! A Christmas gift to me, from me. Every time I look at the delicate silver heart, I will remember to always love myself, because this is the only way that others can love you too.

Top: Jewel store front.

Bottom: my silver ring.

Visit Jewel's Facebook page here.

It's a great page with lots of information

and photograhs of the boutique - then visit Jewel!

Local Treasures: Mohair

Sorry I've not posted in a few days, I've been a bit under the weather (sympathy most welcome) but having felt better today, I thought I'd do something a bit special. On the run up to Christmas I'm going to feature a select few boutiques in Dundee that have caught my attention lately. 

I'm always on the lookout for individual pieces to add to my basic wardrobe and give each look a personal touch that has a story, or says something about me. My favourites include the slouchy red leather bag that Mr Man bought me in Australia, the cracked, vintage opal ring that was my great aunt's and the wooden elephant given to us by my Sri Lankan uncle that sits in our living room. Most recently, I have my eye on a vintage 20s style clutch bag that I saw at my Mum's the other week...

So, I'll be featuring these special, unique boutiques that each sell individual, limited pieces that will mean shopping for gifts, clothes and interiors will be that little bit more special. I think it's so important to support our local independent retailers who work hard to source special pieces for us. I think we need to encourage more investment shopping rather than mass purchases, and really spend our money wisely. The other advantage of shopping at independent boutiques is that you really do receive a first class service. You are the customer, what you need is what is most important. You won't have to be a nuisance to teenage girls who think gossiping over a heap of slogan g-strings about the boys in One DIrection is more imporant than your shopping needs. You pay for a more personal service, which actually, is priceless. Anyway.  First up, we have Mohair.

Mohair is a warm and welcoming boutique on the corner of King Street and Fort Street. It's far enough away from the main streets to allow a nice stroll (say, from Visocchi's or Toast for coffee before going to The Ship for a quick half) but not so far that you won't want to go.

The shop itself is spacious without being intimidating; the stock is displayed neatly and cleanly, without over crowding. There are beautiful touches in the decor such as the full length, heavy looking mirror in the centre of the shop floor and the vintage suitcases in the window. When I arrived to meet Mhairi, the founder of Mohair, she was instantly friendly and smiley, talking avidly about the labels she stocks and her plans to include more interiors in the future. She and her family are originally from the West Coast, but love the East Coast so much that Mhairi ditched her banking job to open Mohair and relocate in an attempt to live her retail dream. (Thank heavens, because Mohair - the name of which is a play on Mhairi's own name - is a great addition to Broughty Ferry, which is really bustling with activity again). Dressed casually in slate grey, Mhairi was understated but superbly stylish and really is a great representative of the Mohair style.

Mohair stocks a little bit of everything: clothing by Cocoa Cashmere, Fee G and Nancy Mac (among others), cosy woollens, cute soaps, luxe-boho jewellery as well as fragrance and candles by uber-chic Miller Harris. (If you haven't heard of Miller Harris, think Jo Malone). 

Above: Miller Harris

Above: Fee G

I fell in love with some stunning pieces in the Mohair AW collection that instantly made me think of Stella McCartney's sheer polka dots, while other pieces (a quilted, almost metallic coat) oozed the sophistication of Chanel. There are also fantastic bags and purses which are made from eel skin. They are so unique and yet so utterly on trend that they would make gorgeous Christmas gifts - whether for yummy mummies, trendy sisters or even glamorous grannies! There is a necklace that I'm dying to go back for (my vow of non-shopping won't last long) and a bracelet that is perfect for my boyfriend's sister. Hopefully she'll read this, so I won't say if I'll buy it or not...

 Above: the next best thing to Chanel. I. Want. 

Above: One of many styles of eel skin bags.

What I love most about Mohair is that there really is something for everyone. Any age, any style, any background, from tourists on a budget to local celebrities (Lorraine Kelly is a huge fan). The prices range from £5 to £500, so everyone can treat either themselves or someone else to a taste of Mohair this Christmas. What's better than opening a special, non-generic gift at Christmas time?

Scroll down to read my interview with Mhairi. Once you've finished, I would recommend a trip to Mohair.

The Daydreamer Interview: Mhairi McDermott of Mohair

TDD: What is the ethos of Mohair - does it have a certain style or personality? 

Mohair: It's probably all about good quality, luxury items that stand the test of time. We also like designers that support their producers in a positive way, and we are interested in supporting designers in and around Dundee - we want people to remember what's available right on their door step.

TDD: How do you choose stock for Mohair?  

Mohair: By constantly reviewing what's new in fashion and follow Vogue, Tatler, Harper's Baazar, etc. We visit the shows in London twice a year and hope to go further a field - the States are beckoning! Mohair stock will constantly evolve as our tastes change and as new designers appear. We hope our customers continue to enjoy the pieces we bring them.

TDD: What are the future plans for Mohair? You love the store, Anthropology.... perhaps there will be another Mohair in the future? 

Mohair: Definitely, we'd love to build a mini empire but want to perfect our shop in the Ferry firstly.  We're in the process of building our web site too and hope to offer on-line shopping from that sometime next year.

TDD: Describe your own style. 

Mohair: Classic, individual; I love understated glamour but also like a touch of bling.

TDD: Do you have a favourite designer? 

Mohair: There are loads of designers out there but Stella McCartney is a favourite and I like Alice Temperley at the moment too.

TDD: And a style icon?

Mohair: No one person in particular as I love too many different looks.  My favourite decades would probably include the 50s, I love flat pumps with skinny bottoms.  Also, I love the 70s, so wide leg trousers, chiffon / silky loose blouses, heels, hats - oh and big shades and big bags!

TDD: Any fashion/style tips or secrets?  

Mohair: You really can wear anything if you wear it confidently!

Visit the Mohair Facebook page here.

Take a look at Beautiful Dundee, where Jennie recently posted something similar.

Harvey Nichols Edinburgh x Stylist Skincare Awards

You guys already know how much I adore Harvey Nichols Edinburgh, right? Well, have I got news for you - the luxury store on Multrees Walk will be hosting a major beauty event on Tuesday night (6th December). Stylist Skincare Awards will hold demonstrations from Cover FX, Space NK and even a Botox demo from Beyond MediSpa - perfect if you want to see what all the fuss is about and learn about the treatment loved by celebrities (and reality TV starts) the world over. Harvey Nicks will be giving personal shopping masterclasses, using these gorgeous pictures (life size!) to show guests how to style and shop effectively. Daydreamers, there's more: there will be goody bags on the night from Burt's Bees and Benefit, while Shu Uemura, La Prairie and Astley Clarke will be just some of the counters with activities and offers for customers. 

Tickets for this fun and informative evening are £10, and ticket prices are redeemable against any beauty product bought on the night. There will also be gifts with purchases from Sisley, Clinique, Benefit (among many others) and if you spend over £100 you'll receive a Lanvin (LANVIN!)  jewellery roll. You can stock up on Christmas gifts and receive a fabulous treat yourself.

Images with thanks to Harvey Nichols Edinburgh.

Tickets for Stylist Skincare Awards on 6th December are £10 and include a goody bag. You can buy tickets in store or online.

Jimmy Choo's Winter Wonderland

If I didn't already want to go to St Moritz, I do now! Jimmy Choo opened their first boutique in St Moritz (their second Swiss store - the other is in Zurich) on Friday and what's more is, the St Moritz boutique features an exclusive collection unique to the store - it's a winter wonderland, in a winter wonderland!

Top: The brand new Jimmy Choo boutique in St Moritz.

Bottom: The exclusive collection available only at Jimmy Choo, St Moritz.

Images with thanks to the lovely Lucinda at Jimmy Choo.