Boho Browsing

It's getting to the end of the summer holidays and despite the fact that I'm really not looking forward to going back to school (something that everyone who asks seems to be oddly surprised about) at least I'll be doing something productive with my day. I love the saying 'time you enjoy wasting isn't wasted time' because it's true, however the last few days I do just feel like I'm wasting time. 

Yesterday, I was grateful for my mum taking me for a hot chocolate (cream and marshmallows and all). Beforehand we stopped at a little shop in search for a larder cupboard however to my delight, the eccentric furniture shop had changed into a gem that sells bits and bobs, fashion and accessories. Every corner of the shop still held it's quirky quality and was impeccably decorated with a hippie atmosphere.

I love this knitted sweater, it reminds me of a jumper my uncle used to wear and honestly, I've desired one since seeing Kylie Jenner sporting a similar style in Jamaican colours walking through Los Angeles airport a couple of months ago. In fact, now I'm writing this I'm asking myself why I didn't buy it there and then.

 Further down the rail were these lovely cotton shirts. An alternative to button down flannel shirts, these grunge look patterned, v-neck shirts have a bohemian as well as almost farmer look. I loved the grey stripes and these once again reminded me of Kylie Jenner. I would pair with biker boots and black skinnies or simple denim shorts in the summer.

 These dungarees were my favourites! Patchwork with this many patterns should be absolutely awful however this in my opinion is a wonderful combination! It's so unique, if a little peculiar but it has definitely inspired me to be bolder with my pattern and colour choices. Admittedly, I have been wearing head to toe black recently (nevertheless, black is the new black). These also remind me of Rita Ora's 'bonkers Western' cow print dungarees that she recently rocked at V-Festival.

All in all, it was a successful little browse. You never know where you'll find some inspiration (+ a new outfit!)

Dirty dancing in the moonlight

This week my local theatre did a sunset cinema and showed my favourite all time film, Dirty Dancing! I was so over excited and the atmosphere was magical - it was pretty emotional. I wore my black skinnies, my trusty cut out black ankle booties, an elegantly detailed grey knit sweater and my new look leather jacket; I had my short hair in cute little plates.

My friends and I snuggled under a blanket and tucked into a chocolate share pot and cakes as musicians played to the glorious sunset.

As soon as the stars made their appearance, the film began and as always, I was mesmerized. Despite watching this countless times as a child, this was the first time I truly noticed the faultless fashion.

                 Firstly, the moment Patrick Swayze stepped onto the screen - the crowd simultaneously "whooo-ed" at his effortless bad boy look; the simple grey tee, classic leather jacket, cool black shades and impeccable hair. Strong look, very strong look!

      
This gypsy off the shoulder top with beautiful red floral embroidery has to be my favourite Penny outfit in the movie. I bought a crop top similar to this a few years ago from republic and I wear it with high waisted jeans or maxi skirt and accessorize it with a white lace choker on which I sewed a little red flower button. In this scene, Cynthia Rhodes pairs the billowing, loose fit top perfectly with a bodycon black skirt and black belt which looks so glamorous and so pretty.

Baby

Despite this 80's classic being set in 1963, I was repeatedly surprised by Baby's outfits, mainly because I would happily wear all of these outfits today. Her essential denim shorts that I wish would miraculously appear in my wardrobe. What has happened to shorts like these? They fit perfectly, the shade of denim blue is just right and unlike most on the high street today, they're a respectable length. NEED.

   
 White jeans and contrasting plaid shirt. In three words; simple but effective. I haven't been brave enough to invest in daring white denim yet but this outfit as well as Eleanor Calder' s gig outfits convinced me to buy the most current addition to my wardrobe-White tapered trousers with faint grey lines from next.
Furthermore, topshop are currently selling a red mix and match shirt similar to this for £30.

 Other than the way Johnny adoringly stares into Baby's eyes, my favourite thing about this scene is Baby's adorable, fittingly baby pink, ever so popular matching bralet and shorts. The ultimate co-ord!

 Every thing about this picture is flawless. Johnny' s black tank top, conveniently showing off those awe-inspiring arms, Penny's beautiful cami (similar to one I recently purchased from New Look for under £15), stunning red skinny jeans and fabulous belt - a look I will definitely be stealing! In addition, Baby once again looks effortlessly glorious in a simple white blouse and denim three quarter lengths - items that could be bought in most high street shops.

 Whilst researching for this post, I came across this photo from the movie premiere in 1987 (in which Cher made an appearance!). I can not believe how stunning Jennifer Grey looks with a red lip and my current love: the off the shoulder look.

*I would recommend Missguided or boohoo.com for an off the shoulder garment and would not suggest (like I did) cutting the neck off a regular long sleeve shirt from the wardrobe; it's trickier than it seems!*

I also loved Patrick Swayze' s alternative shirt collar accessory (a sort of broach with black string) I'm not sure what it's called but it's better than a regular tie or a bowtie in my opinion.

                       

Finally, my favourite scene in terms of fashion; the staff party! I fell in love with the clothes worn by 'the dirty dancers' as baby innocently walked through carrying the famous watermelon. The cut off cropped shirts, polo necks and tops in grunge style fabrics and the high waisted trousers = my style inspiration.
                                                           

Busy in Barcelona

4 o'clock this morning I arrived home from Barcelona after 30 hours on a bus! I went with friends and we were staying in a cabin on a site that reminded me exactly of Dirty Dancing. 

Firstly, we went to Port Aventura which was spectacular. After passing out in a 2 hour queue for a ride we finally had a look around. Each land; Mediterrania, Polynesia, China, Mexico and Far West were incredible. It was like literally stepping into a different country within a few steps and every detail was so inspiring. 

Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar streets were delightful. There were countless souvenir, grocery and jewelry shops. Henna tattoos and fish pedicures were being done on the bustling streets and there were ice cream stands on every corner. 

These were my favorite shops; a gorgeous boutique, a shop full of only lace clothes! and a sort of bohemian shop with peaceful scents and music creating a tranquil atmosphere. 

On Wednesday evening after a day in Barcelona, we went to see the fountain show. The music and the lights reminded me of one of The Great Gatsby's lavish parties. I ran over to the wall in front of the fountain and just stood there with the water raining over me. It was seriously awe-inspiring.

Las Ramblas

   

                        

I loved the art in Las Ramblas. Every artist had a different style and had created some of the most creative and unique paintings I've seen.

   
The buildings were so inspiring. Every apartment block had charming walls with lovely details; I saw one with oriental umbrellas and another that took me a while to realize that they weren't real windows but 1920s styled painted people in painted windows and balconies. La Segrada Familia was honestly the most astonishing building I've ever seen. At first sight it's a remarkable cathedral but the longer you stare the more wildlife, trees, people, windows and stories you discover carved into the walls.

   

We also went to Nou Camp Football Stadium which was amazing! If I was a Barcelona FC fan it would have blown my mind! We went right up to the pitch side, walked up were the players run out for each match, sat in the commentators box, nosed around the changing rooms and marveled at the historic football kits and trophies. The whole thing was so inspiring-I will definitely be going to a football match soon!

Outfits

After months of panicking about outfit choices, stressing over shopping and making lists I finally made decisions for my outfits; 

• Shopping in Tossa de Mar: my customized button down dress from my last post, my favourite New Look special edition black cut out ankle booties and Accessorize layered necklaces.
• Pool day: H&M Plaid flannel shirt dress
• Out in Barcelona: New Look Floral button down short skirt, Primark white daps and a knotted tee
• Beach day: Primark Paisley beach shorts, Republic gypsy crop top with red embroidery, Accessorize flip flops
• Water World: 90s Voodoo Doll daisy mini dress, Primark white daps
•  Last day-Pool day: New Look cut out blue floral dress
• Meal out in Tossa de Mar: New Look black cami bodycon dress
• Port Aventura: Embroidered teal skirt with grey studded belt and grey vest crop top
• Disco and watching the football: Next double strap black pool sliders, M&S black jeans, boohoo black high neck crop top