New York based Parisian born make-up artist Violette Serrat has been my girl crush for a long time; the epitome of French chic her short YouTube tutorials are little snippets of classic French style. She was appointed Global Beauty Director at Estee Lauder last Summer and her first collection has been eagerly awaited. Named ‘Poppy Sauvage’ the curated limited edition seven-piece line (inspired by a sunset train ride through the South of France) features duo chrome eye shadows, her signature red-orange lipstick and my favourite the Soft Glow balm. The multi-use pale pink balm gives a subtle sheen and hydration to lips and cheeks. See the lady herself demonstrate it here and prepare to sigh.
For me, Birkenstocks are the summer equivalent to the Ugg boot. They’re not pretty, dainty or ‘fashion forward’ but I have a couple of pairs that I am guaranteed to pull out every summer just because they are so comfortable. Recently Birkenstock teamed up with Opening Ceremony to give the brand an injection of festival chic and the results are a glitterfest. The new sparkly versions come in two varieties: The Arizona (the classic two-strap sandal) and The Boston (the slip-on clog style) and two colour ways of a Hot Pink or Silver. Find them here.
As far as Spring/ Summer Outerwear goes the trench coat is a constant, a style classic it is a piece that has earned its iconic status as a wardrobe staple. Every year it is reworked and restyled but the shape generally stays the same. Fashion magazine editors have been cooing this ever so purse-friendly version from George at Asda and having seen it in the flesh I would have to agree. Available in store and online it is sure to sell out super quick.
I have a pile of ‘next to read’ books next to my bed but that doesn’t stop me looking for even more. This historical piece of fiction looks right up my street. A Sunday Times bestseller and shortlisted for the Women’s Fiction prize, ‘The Mermaid and Mrs Hancock’ tells a tale of merchants, intrigue, Georgian high society, courtesans and of course a ‘mermaid’. This debut novel by Imogen Hermes Gower has tipped her to ‘soon-to-be literary star’ status.
I bought one of these oil diffusers recently for a friend’s birthday and loved it so much I ordered myself one. I’d wanted one for ages as a lighter version to scented candles or incense sticks in my bedroom. I was surprised at how many types were on the market and how much they vary in price but with a bit of research and review studying I managed to narrow it down. This one is simple in design and easy to use but is all singing and dancing with its functions and features. Just add a few drops of your favourite essential oils or oil blends fill it with water, plug it in and away you go.
Uniqlo, the Japanese clothing company is well known for its collaborations with a never-ending succession of stylists, design houses and artists providing wearable and often collectable ranges at a high street price point . This summer features collections from British label JW Anderson and also Marimekko, a Finnish design house celebrated worldwide for its bold use of print and colour. This graphic tee is typical of the range and will inject a jolt of pattern and colour into your wardrobe for a mere £12.90. Instore and online now.
See you next week.
Hannah x