A BRIT GREEK

The weekend that was: The Glam, the Sad & the Bad

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 09:31:00 +0000

Well hello lovelies, how did your weekend go? It was sure one hulluva weekend, jam-packed with glam happenings and sad tragic news.
R.I.P Whitney Houston, you had such an amazing & mighty voice and will always be remembered. What a tragic loss. I still remember my first ever double tape I got - I think it was NOW 1986, featuring Whitney's "I wanna dance with somebody" - what a brilliant tune.

I can't say that I like to write about negative happenings but it is hard to ignore the hell that was unleashed over the weekend in Athens. In case you haven't heard, several building were in flames... I don't think anyone was hurt, but the riots are hardly something one stomachs easily. The future of this country looks incredibly bleak and a far cry from what life used to be like here...

Anyhoos, moving on! I absolutely adore Milla's old Hollywood glamour look whilst hosting the Scientific and Technical Oscars - who knew there was such a category?! She does Old Hollywood glam so well and still doesn't look like she's aged one bit! More images via here.

There are a whole host of celebs getting knocked up lately, these guys know a thing or two when it comes to Red Carpet maternity style. Alessandra Ambrossio is a fine example, looking ultra glam & doing the Samba so well at the carnival in Rio!

Hoorah for Adele on her second Vogue cover! Plus a big fat Greek congrats on winning 6 Grammys! Well deserved... I swear, whoever broke her heart made her super freakin' rich!

Karl, although I love you and your work, she is NOT "too fat" monsieur! The breathtaking cover on the right is from the October issue of UK Vogue, 2011. I swear the imagery is to die for in that issue, this songstress just blew me away!

Michelle Williams at the Bafta's last night wearing H&M! Yes you read it right... accentuated with a flower at the waistband & carrying Arthur Miller's The Misfits & Natalie Portman carrying the Lolita book clutch... both sporting the coolest arm-candy ever by Olympia Le-Tan.

My fave picture of all time from Fashion Week. David Beckham snapping away on the Front row and seated next to Anna Wintour.

Was there anything else I missed? I hope you all have a sparkly week!
x.o.x.o

images via DailyMail.co.uk & Getty/API, Vogue.co.uk

Romance, Ruffles & Love

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:10:00 +0000

I Luuuurve this look, wishing it were summer, like, now!

Lovelies, how did your week go? Mine was somewhat hectic, rushing around most days scrambling to complete projects and also the run up to Valentines day always seems to be that much more chaotic.
Have you all finished Valentines gift shopping? Or are any of you having anti-V day celebrations with your gal pals like the one hosted by Jessica Biel in Valentines Day? Me at this moment: picturing scene with Jennifer Garner smashing the hell outta that piñata! Whatever your plans are this weekend, I hope you have an amazing one!

This week I also attended MadWalk, a major Fashion & Music event hosted by Mad TV (like MTV for Greece) and Vodafone. Wow is all I can say... You'll catch some sneaky shots I shared on Twitter, but otherwise hold your horses fashion folk, I'll be sharing some of Greece's finest talent with you all very soon.
Oooh, almost forgot, I have a very exciting "I want this Job" installment coming your way soon too!

This weekend, whilst I'd like to be chilling because I'm exhausted (I know I sound like a 90-something year old granny), I'm on the hunt for some wedding shoes for one of my oldest friends in the world. She's after a pair of heels with a bit of a platform... Anyone have any great websites in mind (for UK preferrably/US/Greece) let me know!

I saw this room and fell in love, tres dreamy, no?

I hope you all have a great weekend, filled with nothing but LOVE, from moi!

Smooches.
x.o.x.o

images via Pinterest, Fashioninspirationbydc.tumblr, beauandaero.tumblr

BeSPECtacular Beauties

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:31:00 +0000

Well hey there gorgeous people! How was your week?

Yup, if it weren't for glasses I'd be walking into walls and hugging random people on the streets thinking they were my friends! (I have done that by the way - waving and saying hi to strangers that is.) For a while now (and that's a long while ago mind), ever since I took my driving lessons at the tender age of seventeen, I thought my eyesight was perfect but me squinting and trying to read the number plate 20.5 metres ahead told me otherwise.

Anyhoos, I've worn all kinds of frames in my time, but haven't found the perfect pair of slight cat-eye frames. I need a change of frames people. In the meantime, i'm loving these beauties...

Brigitte Bardot looking super sexy and stylish in her frames

Not sure which campaign this is for, but I'm going with Tom Ford or Gucci because it's tres sexy - answers on a postcard please as this was found on good ole Pinterest.

Geek style chunky black frames - seeing more and more of this trend nowadays, will they ever go out of fashion?

Yeah, this are kinda gorgeous, but also kinda pricey too, sigh!

Wishing you all a wonderful week, Be Spectacular, spectacular!!!
A warm welcome to new readers who found me via Zumba!!!

Thanks for your patience over this past week, I'm catching up with you all slowly but surely and being inspired!

images via: Bella185 tumblr, Bardot Gallery, Pinterest & Tom Ford

Because It's Monday: Gimme Some Sparkles

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:18:00 +0000

Ok, perhaps not my sentiments exactly today, but I'm pretty sure most of you suffer from those Manic Mondays, or even blaah Mondays... It's the start to the new working week, so my wish for you is to grab a coffee or power shake and rock on this week!

I guess this first picture does somehow reflects my mood of late, being pulled in numerous directions, trying to do everything and trying to balance it all very carefully. I feel like those performance artists with spinning plates... and if one falls then the others may well do the same... Crash and burn.

Therefore, I'm going to take a mini break from the blog. So please forgive me if I fall behind on my blog roll and don't comment back immediately over next week or so. You guys mean the world to me, & those who know me well, will know that I always have time for you & reply back (unless you're a spammer asking to follow, if this is the case, please do me the courtesy of visiting at least a few times so I remember who you are & build up a relationship).
I am still around, I just need to focus on some other bits right now, If anyone has ever been in the position of playing role-reversal amongst other things, you may well know what I mean...

Yes please, I wouldn't mind a re-fillable glittery coffee cup

I'd like to try this soon, pretty glittery nails with black bow-tie.

The Festival of Light, Lanterns filling the sky in Chiang Mai, so beautiful. I once saw this festival in Laos, one of the most remarkable places on earth. Everyone just got together, it was amazing seeing a community of people gel together to create such a beautiful festival.

Words to live by, Audrey is often right, no?

New readers, regular kittens, silent followers/visitors, you're awesome!

Have a great week everyone! Καλή εβδομάδα!!!

images via: 1, 2 & 3, 4 - Google images & 5 (edited by ABG)

Friday Funnies: Imagine Anna Wintour with Different Hair

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:27:00 +0000

I almost died laughing my head off when I first saw this... Can you imagine? Actually this isn't a bad look for Anna looking at this all over again. Will she ever change her fringed cropped look?

So, who's tried Zumba, it's one of the biggest craze's in fitness right now...?
(Briana from Step Up 2: The Streets & Jim Carrey from Ace Ventura doing his crazy dance)
Original concept inspired by: Alisha Koch here and "What I feel like when I run & What i'm pretty sure I actually look like" image on Pinterest.
Image above sourced and re-constructed by ABG.

This was a looooong time ago, but I still have a good chuckle when I see Justin rock a leotard on Saturday Night Live with Beyonce. The first outtake is below. If you haven't seen this before it'll guarantee a giggle from you.

Wishing you all a fabulous weekend. What will you be doing? I've got a fair bit of sightseeing duties this weekend, just hope we have sunny weather! Plus I do realise I have a heck of a lot of blog reading to catch up on... I am around peeps!
Aside from that I've many a wedding to prep for this year and plan a few surprises, not easy when you're across the pond I tell you. Anyhoos, I couldn't be more excited my friends!

Now skiddadle you gorgeous lot & go have fun!

images via youtube, pinterest (some edited by me)

What They Wore: MadWalk by Vodafone VIP Pre-Party, Athens

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:28:00 +0000

Above: Katrina Tsantali, Regina Kouri & Marianna Smpokou

Ok, I figured it's probably about time I wrote about some great or at least fun happenings around Greece rather than whinge about troubled times...
Well, as it happened I missed the MadWalk by Vodafone VIP Party on Monday as it clashed with my Chinese New Year celebrations, but alas, the kind people at MadWalk helped me out with some of these snap shots of the gorgeous people of Greece!

First up, what is MadWalk? in a nutshell Mad TV, Greece is like MTV - a brilliant music channel for the young hipsters here. MadWalk sponsored by Vodafone however, is a Fashion Music Project, think major Catwalk show featuring Greece's leading Designers combined with live music from Superstars around the globe! I couldn't think of a more genius concept to celebrate fashion and music.

Above: Efi Papaioannou (Designer) in a gorgeous studded shoulder jacket & McQueen Clutch. I love this jumpsuit but I Want her jacket like now!

On 8 February the 2nd annual Fashion Music Project event will be featuring designs from:

I am beyond excited for this event as I missed out last year being in London. Anyhoos, more on this event soon.

Former model & TV Presenter (Next Top Model Greece) & this years MadWalk by Vodafone Presenter Vicky Kaya

I'm not sure if i'll continue to get random hits on Google searches on this blog for a 'naked' Kostas Martakis (singer), but I can understand why! If Greece made Barie & Ken dolls, I think he'd be one of those pretty Ken dolls, what do you think?
He will also be co-presenting this event along with TV presenter Mary Sinatsaki (below).

Pretty in Pink with a bit of sparkle

Interior Designer Extroadinaire & TV Personality Sissi Feida & Eleni Foureira, Singer.

I have to say I prefer Eleni in her 'summer mode' with lighter coloured hair and soft glowing tan... she looks ultra pale with dark hair...

Who did I miss? Catching up with my lovely Blogger buds, Elena of Life Full of Fashion and Penelopy of Fashion Architect, seen with super stylish TV Presenter, Alex Kavdas
If you want to see the night through Penelopy's eyes click through to her blog on the link.

images courtesy of Studio Panoulis & Mad TV, Stylista.gr & last pic via Miss Bloom.gr

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner: Happy CNY!

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 06:29:00 +0000

Today I'm very lucky to have my folks over to be able to celebrate Chinese New Year, this year marking the year of the Dragon (occupying 5th position), the mightiest sign... Boy my brother's lucky, this is the year for him!

In China, the dragon is an imperial symbol, the sign of the emperor's power and wealth. While the second animal which accompany the dragon is the Phoenix which symbolizes luck and happiness. I'll be back with a Chinese Horoscope for some of us once my family have visited the temples in HK.

Huang Xiao Meng by Yin Chao for Numero China Jan/Feb11

The gorgeous Grace Gao above for Numero China Aug 2011 & below for Vogue China

Double happiness symbol as nail art!

(Amy Atlas Table setting)

I would like to say Kung Hei Fat Choy 恭喜發財 for all!

May all you & your family have good health 身體健康, good wealth 財源廣進,

and all your wishes come true 心想事成 for coming New Year!

Images via FashionEditorials, Pinterest, amy atlas, Flickr & FGR's shoot by the amazing Kai Z Feng

Super Saturdays: Words to live by

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 09:52:00 +0000

I hope you're weekend is going well lovelies... I couldn't be more excited and happier now that my folks have popped over for a visit. Plus, they've brought over some of my favourite things, now that is love! I swear they think i'm still a teenager, especially when the mini case is filled with edible goods and Chinese cooking products you can't usually get over here.

The night before their arrival something pretty awful happened... which makes me despise what's going on in this country even more... My Mother-in-laws place was broken into for the 3rd time in 1 year... What's even scarier is that it's pretty obvious they've been stalking her as they know when she leaves for work and when the home is free for their taking. The apartment was a complete mess and I'm just thankful she was never home when it happened and luckily, nothing of serious value was taken either. These were the same fools who broke in the previous times, no one that dumb would attempt swinging from the rooft top onto a top floor balcony... , life goes on in Greece.

I can so relate to this!

images via pinterest

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Purrr-fect Paul & Jo SS12 Makeup

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:16:00 +0000

Kitty lovers, this one's for you! Whilst there have been a number of kitsch make up launches of late (French Patisserie, Laduree) and a number candy coloured & themed ad campaigns (think LV and Mulberrys amazing SS12 campaign shot by Tim Walker as seen here) for SS12. Gotta say, I couldn't get enough of the cuteness overload when I first spotted this make up range by Paul & Jo Beaute. This year they'll be celebrating their 10th anniversary, I absolutely adore this years Cat motifs collection designed by cat lover Sophie Albou.

The range consists of, three Face & Eye Colour palettes (£19.50) in Siamese Please, Kittycat and Purrfect; three cat-shaped creamy Blusher Sticks £21) in Glamous Puss, Minou and Catfight; and Waterproof gel eyeliner, nail enamels, pressed powder and lipsticks. Via asos.com, Harrods and Fenwicks and in the US - Urban Outfitters.

What do you think? Creepy (lipstick heads) or cute? Or just plain pretty?

Catching Up with Kate

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 11:46:00 +0000

Kate by Sølve Sundsbø for Vogue Russia Sept 2009 Full shoot via here

How's your weekend treating you lovelies? I kinda want to dive back under the duvet covers and sleep a little while longer, but the sun has popped out so perhaps Mr. Perseus and I might take a short spin on his little Vintage Monkey Bike (Honda)...
For now, why don't we take a trip down memory lane and check out some of Kate's many changing faces... I love these editorials...

I've read and seen many a magazines, but never saw this shoot featuring Kate shot by the marvelous Marcus Piggot and Mert Alas. Numéro #23 May 2001

above - Pink Hair by Nick Knight - date and magazine unknown

I remember when this came out and I was highly influences by her choppy fringed bob... this was such a gorgeous, vampy shoot shot by Emma Summerton, Nov 2007 Full shoot via here

I loved this shoot by Mario Sorrenti... Firstly, I feel like I'm on holiday looking these pics and the colours-wow, the outfits-wow and the hair and make-up, stunning! Vogue Paris 2010
Full shoot via this link
Be prepared to be blown away

This has to be Kates most racy shoot ever, by Nick Knight for Vogue Italia Kate's make up is pretty dramatic and she's barely recognisable at first with her brunette wig.

Old school Kate... via The Fashion Spot

Kate by Nick Knight for Vogue UK 2000

Hello Gold sparkly pants! By Solve Sundsbo

Noir et Blanc shoot by Mario Testino for Vogue Paris

Freshed faced Kate in the early days
Photographed by Steven Klein for Harpers Bazaar Nov 1993

This Croydon girl has come a long way, Happy Birthday to Kate who turns 38 on Monday!

"I Want This Job (Badly)": Cosmetic Product Designer

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:36:00 +0000

Well hey there lovelies, how goes your week so far? I know I haven't posted about a feature like this in a while, but believe me, you're all gonna love me for this "I want this job" feature!
Frankly, I would swap lives and careers for this talented bloggers job, whom I'm sure many of you are already familiar with.
Anyhoos, ever since I discovered Dawns inspiring blog "The Alternative Wife", I've been living in 'happily ever after land', getting drawn into snippets of her life as a New Yorker & the dreamy, uber feminine and just plain gorgeous imagery. It was through our mutual love of beauty products and probably my addiction to perfume that I discovered that she had the coolest jobs in the world. So cool I have to share with you all!

I want this job: Cosmetic Product Designer

What's a typical day in the life of Dawn of The Alternative wife?
Well let me first start out by telling you all a little bit about cosmetic product development or cosmetic innovation. It's a separate function from marketing or Research & Development (R&D). Basically a cosmetic product developer comes up with new concepts or products ideas. We work hand in hand with marketing on strategy and then we work with R&D on development, ie how each product should look, feel, smell and taste like and also what the function should be including what ingredients we want them to include.

That being said it's hard to say a typical day. Some days I'm at the office in meetings working with various team members to ensure that a product will be launched. Other days I'm meeting with fragrance houses or raw material suppliers to see the new trends. Other days I'm off at a lab or production facility somewhere working on site with the chemists to approve products. Then some days I'm meeting with clients to present new products. And I always squeeze in a little competitive shopping time when I can. It's important to know what's going on in the industry.

What do you love most about your job? Were you always passionate about beauty/cosmetics?

I love that I basically get to play with makeup all day and what girlie girl doesn't like that? I've always been a pretty creative person. I have a passion for art and illustration and I just love to create things and I'm fortunate enough to have a job that marries my passions. Creating and beauty. I've always been obsessed with beauty and cosmetics since I was a young girl. I used to play in my mother and grandmother's cosmetic drawers. And I managed a cosmetic boutique while in high school and majored in Cosmetic Marketing in college. I knew what I wanted to do at a very young age and just went after it.

Is the job as glamourous as it sounds?
There are aspects that can be incredibly glamorous, working with perfumers to develop new fragrances, the travel to find new and exciting things, the launch parties, working with celebrities and designers and such but day to day working in the office it's not all that glamorous. At the end of the day it's a job. An incredible job but it is work.

What area of the cosmetics/beauty industry do you enjoy designing & coming up with new concepts for most & why?
I've worked on all aspects of the beauty industry...color cosmetics, skin care, bath and body and fragrance. I honestly love each and every part of it. From the visual and textural aspects of it to the innovation and technology. They're all equally intriguing and rewarding.

What's not so great about your job?
It's hard to complain about my job. The only thing I can think of is the frustration of wanting to launch a product and not being able to for some reason.

What is the most exciting thing you've ever developed?
Oh this is a hard one! They're all my babies, really. I never launched a product that I didn't love and believe in. I wouldn't launch it if I didn't believe that it was incredible. If I had to think of one thing I guess I'd go way back to my first job right out of college. I was working at Revlon and I was lucky enough to work on Ulltima IIs Lipsexxy, the predecessor of Revlon's ColorStay lipcolor which was a major breakthrough in the industry at the time. Also I worked on LipFusion Lip Plumper which was another major breakthrough in the industry a few years ago.

What is it like working on a fragrance? How do you research and come up with a successful scent?
It's truly incredible. And such an art form. I work with all of the major perfume houses and really all the credit has to go to them and the perfumers. They're the artists. I can just evaluate and decide what I like and what I think will be successful.

What actually goes into an anti-ageing cream? What makes it reverse or improve the skin? (sorry very random, but I am curious!)
There are so many ingredients and new technologies that it's hard to focus on just one. There are a few different ways to address aging. One is prevention and another is reversing the damage that has already been done. I work with all of the raw material suppliers out there and various R&D teams and I have to tell you that there are things that truly do work, retinols and peptides being some of them.

What tools are required to help you with your job on a day to day basis?
You definitely have to stay on top of trends from a fashion, lifestyle and color standpoint as well as from an ingredient standpoint. The industry moves very quickly and you have to have your finger on the pulse. Also it's always good to look back to see what's been successful before and to see how you can update it and improve on it. I work with various trend and research agencies, raw material suppliers, I read industry journals, fashion and lifestyle magazines constantly, and I always keep my eyes open when I'm out an about. You never know what will inspire you! Often you can find a concept in a different industry and then it can be applied to beauty.

What's the career path for anyone wanting to get into the cosmetics industry? (Education, training etc) -Do you have to have to be a genius in the science department & have a knowledge about molecules and cells?
I just happened to go to school specifically for cosmetics marketing but that's not the only way to get into the industry. It really depends on which part of cosmetics you're looking to get into. If you're going for marketing or product development a marketing degree and an internship or job in the beauty industry will help you get your foot in the door. Even if you work retail at a counter that will show you have an interest and passion for the industry. And you definitely do not have to be a genius in science unless you're looking to go into R&D. I happen to love science and formulation so that's helped me have a better understanding of the workings of a formula but the formulators are the geniuses.

Have you ever come up with a concept for a huge cosmetics/beauty brand? If yes, can you share what it was?
I'd go back to LipFusion. I was being presented with a new technology meant for skincare to plump out wrinkles and I thought wouldn't it be great to put this in a lip formula to plump up lips. The chemists I worked with formulated an incredible product that truly works!

What are your thoughts on lotions, potions and creams that claim they can reduce wrinkles or can improve the texture of your skin to creams that reduce the appearance of cellulite?
Cellulite is a tough one. Anti aging creams definitely can and do work but I've yet to find a product or technology that truly works on cellulite. We've been searching for years now and nothing yet. I mean some can help temporarily but nothing long term. I'll let you know when one is discovered!

Can a $20 face cream be just as good and have the same or better results than a face cream costing $100?
Absolutely. Well I'd go up to $30 but there are definitely drug store formulas that work incredibly well.

Are there any beauty products you'd like to recommend?
I would but I wouldn't want to get in trouble or offend anyone. If any one would like some recommendations, feel free to email me :) via The Alternative Wife

I hope you all enjoyed this feature! I sure learnt a lot through the answers... all very fascinating! Dawn, thank you again, it's been a pleasure having you over on A Brit Greek! Smooches x.o.x.o

Stunning Images via my newest Photographer Love addiction: Kenneth Willardt - Some of the images are from the 2011/2012 calender for Maybelline, other via his site
Perfume lab image via designsponge

Because it's Monday: Barbie Mania by Miles Aldridge

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:55:00 +0000

Happy Monday gorgeous people! I hope you've had a terrific weekend? The busy season is finally over for moi and I now have a moment to take in the New Year and new projects/challenges coming my way. It's been a little difficult, since working flat out the past month... each day blended into the next... I'm just so glad I popped all important dates into the phone to buzz and remind me of what I might be forgetting! Anyhoos, time for some amazing photography love by the extremely awesome and talented Miles Aldridge, he's one of my faves.

I love this Barbie Mania shoot he did for Vogue Gioiello 2009, it's such an imaginative way to shoot accessories, no?

I loved the styled up Barbies and bling, gimme some!

images via Miles Aldridge

I'm really excited... I can't wait to share with you an "I Want This Job" feature this week from a legendary blogger who just has the best job in the world... More soon!

Have a great week peeps!

Getting to... Good form, Great health, Good fitness

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 10:09:00 +0000

No... this isn't some kind of New Year's resolution thing... this is inspiration & just a little reminder about looking after yourself! Your own personal health is so valuable guys! If you haven't had your annual wellness/health check up, book it in and sort it out.

I found this pretty useful for measuring food quantities via Pinterest, however, can't say I'm that much of a control freak when it comes to portions! I love my food!

I'm never one for strict healthy eating plans and I occasionally go off the charts when it comes to the sugar department. Do you any of you take care of what you eat and put in your body? Having moved to Greece, I cook pretty much everything from scratch now, I hardly ever buy anything tinned/jarred like I used to in the UK. I also make nearly all my own sauces and buy fruits/veg in season as there is no alternative here! Just wish some things weren't so darn expensive... I cannot get over pricey the supermarkets are here - on par with Waitrose and Marks and Spencers!

LOVED this chart... and hopefully it'll inspire me to pick up the right things I'm really missing! Bigger, readable version via here

Ah, running, I love feeling of freedom, speed, adrenaline and the fact that it's 'me time' when I run. Plus I get to think things over and also let things go. If you don't like running, find something else to do that gives you a natural high and gets you fit! Get your playlist sorted too - I can help with that... there's nothing like some good tunes to work out to.

I'm a big fan of reflexology, Mr Perseus thinks it's really funny, but it works for me and can help with any minor health issues. Have you ever felt some niggly/painful bits when pressure is given on parts of your feet? Look no further than this little chart to identify some problem areas. You can give those areas a gentle massage, get someone else to to do it or find a reputable reflexologist to do all the work!

images via pinterest - some know sources include: Onedaybeautiful.tumblr, Gethealthygetsexy.tumblr

Re-inventing, Re-doing, Re-making... Craftista Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 09:56:00 +0000

Welcome 2012 (in my head I'm saying Twenty Twelve, I blame the Olympic's influence)!

I hope you've all had a brilliant time and that the New Year kicked off with a mighty positive bang.
In the midst of the New Years madness, a pair of my t-bar jewel satin strappy heels had an excessive night out and some of the gems fell out, so I have a funny lookin' pair of heels now, so what to do?

I scoured the net for some inspiration and thought this would be brilliant! Need to get hold of some black satin or even chunky lace to conceal the missing gems!
via LoveMaegan

I've also discovered some 'bingo' brilliance in the craftista department, when it comes to DIY fashion too. As much as I love shopping, I love the idea of re-inventing, re-making and re-doing! I already have plenty in my wardrobe, and like many women probably don't wear 25-30% of it. I guess this weekend will be a good excuse to browse through what to keep, chuck or charity.

Detachable collar via eleven objects.
I can imagine making your own version of this using whatever fabric base and whatever interest detail you have; so buttons, jewels, ribbon, pearls, badges etc.

DIY glitter nail polish via GlitternGlue
So simple it's genius. Puring fine glitter (any colour you fancy) into a clear polish and giving it a good shake rattle and roll before applying.

Such a pretty statement necklace from the legendary ps...I made this posse.

Yeah, I know, it's not exactly shorts weather but it is in Australia/NZ/S.Africa, so here's a fantastic idea for re-inventing your denim shorts. A lace crochet insert
via OohSoChic tumblr

Have a fantastic mid-week!

Wishing you a Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 18:52:00 +0000

Ok, be honest, who hasn't seen Crazy, Stupid Love or doesn't love Ryan Gosling?

(image screenshot, words by ABG)

I'm posting this now as I'll be hitting work early tomorrow!

So, 2011 was an interesting year... Looking back, so many great, amazing awesome things happened, some battles with health are still yet to be fought, Greece took a massive kick to the teeth and fell deep into recession again & yet I'm still standing. More than anything else I want to say goodbye to 2011, you've made me stronger!

Anyhoos, I 'm so ready for 2012! It's time to say goodbye to procrastination, 'I don't think I can...', comparing your life to everyone else's (yours is just good, they just don't share the rubbish bits & all their problems in their life with you) and when something bad happens, you have 3 choices... You can either let it define you, let it destroy you or let it strengthen you.

Remember:

There was a point in blogging time that I thought I'd give up, not really knowing where this little blog was going to go... I'm so glad I didn't, you guys are always such an inspiration and your comments/tweeting/sharing always make me smile (and lol)! So...

PLUS:

Words to Live by...

So what will 2012 bring for you? Are you setting yourself any new goals? Gonna try new things?
If there's one thing I try not to stop doing is 'CANI' - Constant And Never-ending Improvement. You can apply that motto to anything in life and just remember, whatever you wish for, or want to change, you don't have to wait til next year or tomorrow, you can start NOW!
With each passing minute is a chance to change your life! So do it!

Wishing you all a very Happy New Year kittens, may next year be better than the last!
x.o.x.o

images via Pinterest - some edited by A Brit Greek, Goodbye by Michael Phelan, You are Amazing via Yayeverday.

OMFG, I must have been so tired and monged that I actually wrote about 2010 twice in this post and actually typed it in the Ryan Gosling pic, for real! LOL! Thank you to those of you who pointed out my Super Blind typo! Finally finished work for the day... feet are killing me.

Winter Skin Saviour

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:21:00 +0000

Hey guys, how was your Christmas? Did anyone have a white winter wonderland?

Anyhoos, I don't know about you, but I for one am suffering from that nasty winter complexion, you know the one; flaky, dry skin, especially around the nose, dull complexion (until you go crazy on the blush/bronzer), chapped hands and lips... sexy it isn't!
The harsh wintery environment combined with central heating is a cocktail that's gonna unleash complete mayhem on your skin. So, what to do?

The confusing, crazy shift between bitter cold outdoors (your skin circulation is sluggish) and warm central heated indoors is enough to stress your skin right out, usually it's more a shock which is why the capillaries on your face are likely to widen or break resulting in dry, red skin.

Hot tip - if you have your central heating on, stick a glass/pan of water next to the radiator to humidify the air and turn it down at night as your skin is busy restoring itself whilst you're sleeping.

My beauty regime & products changes consistently according to the season - sounds wacky but it's actually better this way... imagine switching your wardrobe according to the season, and implementing one as you would for your skin. You wouldn't use a heavy moisturizing cream that you normally use in winter in summer would you?

On these cold wintery days & night's it's tempting & rather comforting to use hot water to wash your face or soak your bod, but stop, right now!!! The high temp is going to zap your skins natural protective oils.

I also thought using a body exfoliator regularly was going to get rid of any dry or flaky skin, nuh uh beauty queens... apparently excessive exfoliation damages the skins protective barrier. According to celeb facialist Sarah Chapman, "the trick is to restore and rebalance your skin, exfoliating once or twice a week is enough and always use a nourishing mask afterward to help replenish your skin's moisture levels".

Key things to remember:

Bump up your beauty regime now and use a more emollient protective face moisturizer.(something that contains Vitamin E or glycerin helps lock in moisture)
If you're going to load up the make-up on a daily basis, make sure you use a good alcohol free cleanser/toner, which isn't going to dry your skin out. I love Clarins 'One step cleanser' (with orange extract) & also Ponds' Cold Cream - très old school, no?
On those really dry face days, I also use a Vitamin C serum to complement my moisturizer. Oh and let's not forget the odd supplements here. I always go for the Seven Seas 'Cod liver oil with Evening Primrose oil'... but don't forget to tuck into a bit of salmon, mackerel, tuna, nuts, and seeds too!
At night, I use a much heavier cream, actually I've just bought the L'Oreal Youth Code Night Cream and it makes my skin feel ultra silky after I've put it on and in the morning my skin feels soft, perfect.
The bod: I love Soap & Glory's 'Flake Away' scrub (also available at Target USA) - smells incredible, super affordable and has the perfect kind to skin ingredients - peach seed, shea butter and fine sugar granules. Yuuuum!
I always moisturize immediately after a bath/shower to lock in moisture. I use anything from body butters (Palmers) to Vichy's Nutri extra replenishing body cream.
Sanctuary's Body Moisture spray is my all year round product - it smells amazing, the price, even better and for these wintery days or if you're preserving a tan, this is the one!

There's one thing I never stop wearing all year round and that's a moisturizer with an SPF. It's always sunny here, despite the cold, my skin is always protected.
As for my hands... they don't deserve the rough treatment they've had lately, but I try to protect them immediately after washing them and apply Neutrogena's hand cream or Nivea (the one in the round blue tub) and do this all over again & wear gloves to bed... lovely soft hands the next day...

I feel ultra pale now that it's winter and I'm usually not one for wearing founation, but recently I've been reaching out for a little miracle in a bottle, known as Garnier's BB cream. I had no idea BB (Blemish Balm) creams were such a huge deal but they're an all-in-one superstar cream, doing the job of a sunscreen, moisturizer, primer & foundation. I swear my skin looks like it's been getting some photoshop treatment...

What are your fail safe go-to products for the winter? I love hearing about different products & regimes! Are you all prepped for NYE? Dress, shoes, bag, perfect skin?

More hot tips on Winter skin care here.

Images via Fashion Gone Rogue.
1: Bambi Northwood-Blyth by Stephen Ward for Russh
2: Source unknown - via Pinterest
3: Amanda Seyfried by Marcus Ohlsson for Marie Claire US Dec 2011
4. Hannah Holman by Dean Podmore for Remix

Christmas Wishes

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 20:33:00 +0000

Happy Holidays blogosphere! I hope this festive season sparkles for you. A huge thank you for stopping by and supporting my little blog! I know I've been bad blogger recently, but that will all change after the New Year. See you on the other side!

Anyhoos, who's excited? It's time... Whatever you've wished for, I sure hope Santa remembered! I hope all your dreams & wishes come true this Christmas!

Χρόνια Πολλα!
"Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold,
everything is softer and more beautiful".
- Norman Vincent Peale

Image one (edited by me) via the talented Richard Merritt and the last two images by the yet to be discovered Hayden Williams.

Wonderfully Wow Window Escapes 2011 Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 09:41:00 +0000

Enjoy the stunning visual windows of these amazing stores around the globe!

Bergdorf Goodmans, New York - I would love to physically be there to see this!

Such incredible detail and out of your mind imagination and creativity!

Liberty of London - I loved these windows, more so than the previous years!

Harrods, London

Can't say I love these windows as much as last years, but they are still beautiful. The one below looks like shes in a solarium getting some rays!

Harvey Nichols, London

Any favourites?

Missed part 1, check it out here and last years Window Escapes here.

Wishing you all a fantastic and super awesome mid-week!

Bergodorf Goodman images via here, Harvey Nichols windows via here and Harrods windows via here.

Christmas: Guest Posting at Decadence for Divas

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:19:00 +0000

Hey there & Happy Monday to you all! I hope you've all had a well rested weekend - especially if you've been partying non-stop.

I managed to contract a a pretty bad virus earlier last week, which left me dead as a Dodo, then my laptop power adaptor died only having bought after 8 months ago... and my consumer rights have left me with a faulty (expensive) product... apparently I have to return a faulty item before 6 months from date of purchase. So here's to a better week! Ready to rock on now!

Dream big this week guys!

I am so excited to say that I'm guest posting about my Christmas over at the lovely Vanessa of Decadence for Divas check it out here.
I love this girls blog, an expat like me but residing in Spain, Vanessa has such great taste in jewellery and style... everytime we comment on each others blog, it's like talking to an old friend, even though we haven't actually met or known each other that long in blogosphere!

images: Theberry.com & Just Be Splendid

Beautifully Wrapped 2011: It's Good to Give

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:50:00 +0000

'Tis the season to be jolly, generous and festive and what better way to feel the festive flavour than giving away beautifully wrapped gifts? I love creative ways to wrap presents, so I thought I'd share with you all if you haven't done your gift wrapping yet! If you need more inspiration check out the first 'Beautifully Wrapped' series here.

Whilst some of us may not be expecting much this Christmas it is good to receive something, even if it is handmade or small but beautifully wrapped and even if you're not feeling the festive mood, it is good to give. I don't know about you guys, but here in Greece, times are pretty hard. I haven't gone crazy on the X-mas shopping front, but I will be personalising and making my own gifts to give to others and doing my bit over this X-mas.

I found out via Glamour UK that you can donate your paypacket - well an hour of your wages each month to any given charity you wish via: whatsonehourworth.co.uk, not sure if there's an equivalent in the US or anywhere else in the world.

As blogger's we post pictures, share and write a lot. Well, you can put that pen & paper to good use for postpals.co.uk which is supported by the BBC Children in Need, the Prince's Trust and Fearne cotton's inspiration. Postpals.co.uk features the profiles of not so very well children (approved by their parents of course). You can help by writing letters, sending emails or even sending a gift to brighten up their day or put a smile on their face. Anyhoos, they're always on the lookout for volunteers and fundraisers! Do your bit and have a heart!

If any of you have any fantastic giving sites, charity links that help support others this Christmas, please drop me an email or leave a comment below, I'll be more than happy to update this post with the relevant links.

Thank you lovelies! You're awesome!

Images via Pinterest, YourdesignPartner.com, JonesDesignCompany, GreyLikesWedding, Olderandwiser.blogspot.com.

Super Stylish Reads: Perfect Christmas Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 08:38:00 +0000

I was recently asked what which book I'd love most for Christmas by Vanessa of Decadance for Divas and my mind just went completely blank... All I remembered was 'Thank God for Amazon wishlists'! That's where I save all the buys I want for a rainy day. All the above are via Amazon UK.

From top left-right:
Gucci: The Making of £29. YSL £20. True British: Alice Temperley £22.62
100 years of fashion Illustration £16.10. Tom Ford: 10 Years £45. Carine Roitfeld, Irreverent £42
Jonathan Adler on Happy Chic Accessorizing £12. Glamour, Making it Modern £17. Interiors Now V.2 £18

Anyhow, in answer to her question, I'd love Pictures by Tim Walker. If you don't know who he is, eeeeek! This guy is such an amazing genius of a photographer who literally creates visually mind blowing dreamscapes and imaginative modern photography. I've featured his amazing work in the 'I heart Vogue UK: The December issues' previously here, his 'Greatest show on earth' editorial was epic. He did an brilliant editorial for Vogue Italia in October here and also as usual he is Vogue UK's pick for the December Issue 2011, titled An Awfully Big Adventure. Can you tell I like his work much?

See?, highly imaginative, beautiful photography at it's best!

I've heard great things about Carine Roitfelds book, Irreverent (currently sold out on Amazon UK), which just sounds fascinating to me. This woman has worked 15 years as a stylist for French Elle, been a consultant & muse to the likes of Tom Ford at Gucci & YSL for around 6 years, plus 10 years of which she was editor-in-chief for French Vogue, where she did some magnificent things! Definitely a force not to be reckoned with!

The making of Gucci book is one super stylish read for the coffee table, I love a bit of Fashion History, which this luxe label has plenty.

One of my fave UK designers has to be Alice Temperley, I love her feminine, bohemian and glamourous designs plus her cool attitude towards life and fashion. She always looks like she's having fun too. It's hard to believe she's been on the industry for 10 years now, True British: Alice Tempereley is so on my wish list for now!

I also included 100 years of Fashion Illustration as a super stylish read - I could look at someone else's doodles all day long. My other huge crush is to do with Interior & Styling, love Jonathan Adlers work and again I could never get bored of looking at other peoples interiors and styling.

What reads do you currently have on your X-mas wish-list?

images above via Amazon.co.uk, Tim Walker Photography, Alice Temperley

Festive sparkles: What I wore

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 19:09:00 +0000

Hey there blogger bunnies! How do ya do?

Some of you may already know about my die-hard addiction to sparkles and all things glittery. As it happens, I've been going through December with a sparkly & shiny attitude to get me in the festive mood.
So, blogosphere, I thought I'd share a very rare outfit shot of me wearing one of my fave Vintage dresses of all time by Vintage Mavens as featured previously here. It always feels very festive with all the gold, silver & copper leaves whenever I put this frock on and there's an eternal hint of nostalgia too. I always want to dance the night away! What's your go to dress for the festive season? Please do share!

Why I've been m.i.a from blogosphere...

Just kidding, but I did have one of these nights with my gal pals recently... felt really wrong after gorging on sweet stuff!

Ok, you're going to have to forgive me for not being around of late, but it is the busiest time of the year and I am frankly a bit manic. I hope all is rocking for you guys!

NB: Little tip: Vintage Mavens always has really cool, stunning Vintage one-off pieces at great prices (especially when you compare to say Zara or Topshop which can sometimes be more expensive), so shop around and see if you can score a real treat. Click here for the shop and here for her blog with beautiful photography.

Image sources: Pinterest, Style Me Pretty, Crafty so and so & The Glitter guide

Wonderfully Wow Window Escapes 2011 Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 18:09:00 +0000

Well helloooo!

As some of you already know, I am always transfixed by stunning visual merchandising for any store. I got incredibly snap happy whilst back in London and utterly distracted by what stores had to offer, for drawing us punters in for Christmas gifting and shopping.
I also snagged the video for the making of the Selfridges, London Christmas Window display 2011! It's seriously mind blowing to see how it's all done!
Here's part 1, enjoy!

Loving the Circus them running thoughout the LV stores world-wide!

FORTNUM & MASON, LONDON

Absolutely in love with Fortnum & Mason London theatrical & stunning "Moulin Rouge style" windows featuring Showgirls galore! More info behind their Christmas windows here.

SELFRIDGES, LONDON

Selfridges windows were wonderfully white, I would have loved to have seen more colour, but the details in each of the windows were fantastic.

See how the Christmas windows were set up in the short video below!

As I storm troopered it down Oxford Street, it had started to get pretty dark and the stunning Christmas lights came on. I love what Boots have done! Very Light fantastic and festive!

Image credits: Photos taken by A Brit Greek, except Louis Vuitton Store front via Dolceandgabbana me & Fortnum & Mason, LV via Marie Claire UK,

Wedding Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 21:57:00 +0000

I think it's been quite some time since I posted anything wedding related, and I know we're not exactly in wedding season, but I do love myself a winter wedding, especially a Greek one!
Tomorrow, we'll be throwing candy coloured rice and celebrating our dear friends wedding, I am so incredibly excited for them. Anyhoos, here's a mini wedding fix if you didn't get enough of it over the summer.

No wedding is complete with an awesome cake, I love this rose swirl cake, but it does look too pretty to eat!

There's something pretty cool and unexpected about having a fabulous lining in a big white dress

I'm in shoe heaven just looking at these!

I hope you've all had an amazing week, I guess we're kind of heading into the weekend now, so have a fantastic one luvvies!

Right now I can't decide whether to go for darker hues with plenty of shimmer and sparkles or to go for something with a mixture of colours... eek!

I'm sorry for my blogging absence, I've had a bit of a crazy week after getting poorly last weekend and trying to see everyone before I left the UK again... Then flying back last night and going straight to our friends 'Krevati' - a Greek pre-wedding ritual. I can't believe my time there felt so rushed, more on that another time though.

images via: Pinterest.com, Overlookingmississippi, CoquetteandDove, TheFancy

The Enchanted Forest

noreply@blogger.com (A BRIT GREEK) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 08:27:00 +0000

Well hey there lovelies, how was your weekend? Did you start your Christmas Shopping and battle it out with shoppers? I did a slightly mental thing and got up an some insane hour to hit the highstreet at opening hours... maaaan it was great! Hardly anyone about and no queues for the till. We had such beautiful sunny weather in Surrey on the Saturday but when I woke up the next day and peeked out the window, it was thick with fog. Couldn't see a thing!

It didn't stop me going out for a walk near the River Thames, but it did feel ever so eery whenever there was no-one around. Kind of reminded of foggy murders in that film "An American Werewolf in London" - yup, it's an old one, filmed on the moors somewhere... But still gives me the 'judders'.

Are you creeped out yet?

I also went out to visit friends who live in the burbs too and by the time I left their new home the roads were clogged up with Fog, driving was near impossible, but I did get home safely in the end!

Sorry if you expected something with a little more fashion... I will be back with some goodness to share very soon! I'm just trying to navigate my way around an ancient PC when i'm used to using a mac! Yeah, no bluetooth connection either...

Anyhoos! Happy Monday to y'all and have a great week!
καλή εβδομάδα!