tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75683620776637508892024-03-14T11:49:14.416-07:00Dry Shampoo DiariesDry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-29213957418052866272015-06-10T14:42:00.001-07:002015-06-10T14:42:26.039-07:00ART: Carsten Höller: Decision at Hayward Gallery - Opening Night<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #161616;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">'Voluptuous panic upon an otherwise lucid mind.'
- Roger Caillois</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">‘Carsten Höller's art is constantly pulling the rug
out from under the way we look at the world' - a stand-out metaphor from
Hayward director Ralph Rugoff at last night's much anticipated opening; taking
over the Southbank space, Belgian artist Höller has certainly bought more than
a bit of slapstick back to the art gallery.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Known best for his Turbine Hall slide installation
at the Tate Modern - 'Test Site' - in 2006, Höller has repeatedly required not
only active participation with his works, but a certain amount of bravado too.
<i>Decision</i> is no different, with the whole show based around the concept of
duality and - of course - decision making; it's kind of an exhibition full of
Sliding Doors moments, minus the confusing Gwyneth Paltrow haircuts. The
exhibition is undoubtedly fun (I will shy way from too much detail on the works
as part of its dynamism stems from the unknown), but whether these moments of
glee really push us to the artistic realisations Höller expects is something
I'm still trying to decide on myself.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With mushroom carousels, dice shaped child’s
playgrounds, roaming beds and (of course) outdoor slides, the show feels made
for our Instagram generation. Furthermore, Höller's interest in the idea of the
present/presence, the experience happening now which is so key to much of his
work, taps brilliantly in to the modern FOMO-complex. Now we are all about the
experience, the present, showing we were there, sharing our presence with the
world so that our lives look like one long playground of brilliant moments.
Within this contemporary context do the works thrive, or do Höller's pieces
lose the provocation of spontaneous delight which their true effect relies on?<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Personally it was not the silliest nor most surprising
works which I felt particularly moved by, but instead I fell for a simpler
piece called 'Pill Clock': an installation whereby every 3 seconds (the length
of time 'in which it is possible to create the impression of presence') a
single red and white capsule drops from an unknown location in the ceiling,
onto the gallery floor. This playful rendering of a time piece had a quiet
power to it, one heightened by it's accompanying water fountain which allowed
myself and a few other visitors to drop our own pill as we passed, and was definitely
the stand out piece for me.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Carsten Höller at Hayward Gallery will be one of
the biggest shows of 2015 and its not hard to see why - artistic epiphany or
not, you know it'll be one hell of an experience. And here's one decision that we
can make for you: book your tickets now and get over there, FOMO is coming for
you.</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-42428203353687635442015-06-03T03:00:00.002-07:002015-06-03T12:15:45.581-07:00ART & FASHION: The Launch of Maison Mais Non in Soho<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tonight saw the much anticipated launch of new gallery <a href="http://www.maisonmaisnon.com/" target="_blank">Maison Mais Non</a> on Greek Street, Soho. Hailed as London's 'first fashion gallery' and run by Miche<span style="text-align: center;">ál Neeson (son of Liam Neeson and Natasha Richardson), </span><span style="background-color: white;">Topes Calland (who my date for the night assures me is THE tutor for </span>celebrity offspring), Nell Campbell and fashion photographer Toby Knott, the launch was always guaranteed to be a pretty hot ticket.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Miche</span><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">ál Neeson and Liam Neeson at Maison Mais Non</span></span></span></span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Actors Liam Neeson and Ralph Fiennes, poet and it-girl Greta Bellamacina, <span style="background-color: white;">property heiress India Rose James</span> and model and presenter Rick Edwards were among the attendees, who took in both the fashion gallery and its sister venture The Soho Revue. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Maison Mais Non</span></span></span></span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The debut show - named <i>Artist:Artisan</i> - cleverly brought together expert tailors from Saville Row and Central Saint Martins graduates to create and showcase collaborative designs which brilliantly blended the Row's tailoring brilliance with the off-the-wall genius of the fashion students. <span style="background-color: white;">The show sees Charles Jeffrey, Hayley Grundmann, Krystyna Kozhoma and Masha Reva from CSM working with Saville Row tailors, Chittleborough & Morgan, Anderson & Sheppard, Richard Anderson and Kathryn Sargent.</span> <span style="background-color: white;"> </span>Hung in a sparse yet dynamic way - think Ikea meets BDSM club - the works were allowed to demonstrate their full potential with little artifice or need for special effects. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Seeing the camaraderie apparent between Miche<span style="text-align: center;">ál and Topes, as well as the fatherly pride emanating off Liam Neeson, it was clear that this project was far from just a glittery spectacle. If they continue to come at the fashion world with such an artful eye, I think Maison Mais Non might just be on to something.</span> </span><br />
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Follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/DryShampoos" target="_blank">@dryshampoos</a> and share your favourite images from <i>Artist Artisan</i>.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">GC </span><br />
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Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-30196855188775025762014-07-15T14:31:00.000-07:002014-07-15T14:31:03.456-07:00GOING OUT: Medea, National Theatre, Review<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Of all creatures that have breath and sensation, we women are the most unfortunate. </i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I was lucky enough to be invited to the press preview for the National Theatre's new production of <b>Medea</b> last night, a much anticipated re-staging of Euripides' heart-wrenching Greek tragedy which combines the acting talents of Helen McCrory with the musical genius of a certain Miss Alison Goldfrapp.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Being a huge enthusiast of Greek </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">literature and Goldfrapp's brilliantly unique talent, I was excited to see what this new production would bring to this wretched tale of love, deceit and infanticide. Mostly, I was highly impressed by the power of </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Carrie Cracknell's direction, which breathed a new lease of life into a well worn </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Classical text.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hailed by many as a proto-feminist play, Euripides' work is undoubtedly moving, exploring the en-gendered power struggles of his day. At times I felt the actors failed to</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> fully connect with the polemics of the play - perhaps feeling that the dramatics of the original script did not fit within a more modern setting and realistic acting style. However, with current news stories still eulogising on the morals of the modern women - 'magaluf girl' perhaps the most prominent heroine of our latest cautionary tale - I couldnt help but feel the world's were not so disparate. Though the context of Euripides' text and Cracknell's <b>Medea</b> is outwardly so different, much of the heroines monologues were still devastatingly close to the bone; motherhood, sexuality, feminine worth, all are still common political battle grounds, with the female body as an object of trade between sides. At times, I felt the actors could have connected with the intemporality of these issues more emotively, conveying the sheer desperation of women who lose control over their own female form.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">One aspect where the play successfully utilised its modern setting was in the brilliant Contemporary choreography of Lucy Guerin. The chorus of the play, made up entirely of women from Medea's new city, danced themselves into a bewitching frenzy as the play progressed, exemplifying the destructive attraction of Euripedes' cruel heroine, as well his beautifully crafted play as a whole.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The National Theatre's new production of <b>Medea</b> is sure to enthral a whole new audience, breathing life into a play which still hums with energy thousands of years on. I would certainly recommend a trip to watch it; followed by a trip to where ever Medea got that fabulous silk jumpsuit...</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">GC <a href="http://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/shows/medea" target="_blank">http://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/shows/medea</a></span>Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-47021843137517637472014-03-05T03:09:00.003-08:002014-03-05T03:09:19.657-08:00MUSIC: Iggy Azalea is Clueless - Fancy feat Charli XCX<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Check out Iggy Azalea's new Clueless themed video. Never loved her that much, but could I hate a Cher-based music video? As if!<br />
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GCDry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-22065003962902419642014-02-28T03:49:00.000-08:002014-02-28T03:49:30.085-08:00GOING OUT: Kensington Roof Gardens/ Babylon Review<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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Having never been one for Valentine's Day I wasn't quite sure what to expect when the boyfriend told me he'd organised a day out for us. What transpired was a fantastic, if rainy visit to Kensington Roof Gardens and a trip to the gate cinema to see Dallas Buyers Club. Though rain and AIDS films might not scream romance to most - it was a great way to pass a day I'd usually all but ignored.<br />
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If you haven't been to Kensington Roof gardens yet then you're in for a treat. Hidden around the corner from High Street Kensington tube, the bar and restaurant easily boast some of the best views of London - even on a sodden day in mid-Feb. Ok, so we couldn't sit out on the roof terrace and the pink flamingos were distinctly hidden from view, but the Babylon restaurant made more than enough effort to ensure we still had a brilliant Valentine's lunch.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_oLa0lhjcMA/UxB23r_FAbI/AAAAAAAAAns/tgvK37_xalU/s1600/Babylon+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_oLa0lhjcMA/UxB23r_FAbI/AAAAAAAAAns/tgvK37_xalU/s1600/Babylon+004.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Babylon - Bar & Restaurant</td></tr>
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The food was delicious - I went for braised pork cheeks followed by duck and the other half opted for smoked salmon starter and chicken breast. Washed down with a glass of prosecco and a couple of glasses of delicious red wine (don't ask me which - I didn't chose) it was a brilliant way to treat ourselves.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h81Tt8JFLu4/UxB0gQ9y3MI/AAAAAAAAAng/U2winXDdLFE/s1600/Roof+Gardens+External+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h81Tt8JFLu4/UxB0gQ9y3MI/AAAAAAAAAng/U2winXDdLFE/s1600/Roof+Gardens+External+018.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roof Gardens at night</td></tr>
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I think a lot of the big name places in London have somewhat rested on their laurels and often don't live up to expectations - but Babylon and Kensington Roof Gardens are still going all out to ensure every experience there is special. I would definitely recommend it for a fancy date, just perhaps try a less rainy day than us!<br />
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Do you agree? Let us know below!<br />
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GC.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pm9xPCaLnFQ/UxBzF4m6OaI/AAAAAAAAAnM/pGJHnnX4A_Y/s1600/Copy+of+Flamingos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pm9xPCaLnFQ/UxBzF4m6OaI/AAAAAAAAAnM/pGJHnnX4A_Y/s1600/Copy+of+Flamingos.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flamingos!</td></tr>
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Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-36231242456371771412014-02-27T01:44:00.000-08:002014-02-27T01:44:03.389-08:00MUSIC: MØ - Say You'll Be There<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Girl Power - 21st Century style - M</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Ø</span></div>
Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-90647239820021662682014-02-24T01:58:00.001-08:002014-02-24T01:58:30.103-08:00FILM: Cutie and the BoxerI watched Cutie and the Boxer for the first time this weekend - what a beautiful documentary! Reminded me why I love working in the art world...<br />
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Check out Nowness' video of Ushio and Noriko to whet your appetite:<br />
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And catch it on BBC's brilliant Storyville series before April <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b03vrsft/Storyville_20132014_Cutie_and_the_Boxer/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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GCDry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-18483210347781486242014-01-31T09:34:00.001-08:002014-01-31T09:38:46.888-08:00ART: Jessica Albarn: DrawingsMy next project at work will be working with the artist Jessica Albarn - yes the one with the famous brother - and I can't wait to see what she's planning for her first solo show in a <i>long</i> time.<br />
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Having exhibited in Liberty's and Helmut Lang, Jessica has long been a darling of the fashion world. This is testament to the pure beauty which resonates in her works - but should not detract from the artistic skill she presents with.<br />
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The up-coming shows are likely to be held in Bristol as well as London, allowing Jessica to exhibit her work in unusual and intimate settings. The pieces will concentrate on delicate natural imagery and an over-arching theme of resurrection and re-birth.<br />
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Watch this space for more news on these unique events - and let me know what you think of her past works below.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kWSvOEXv_3s/UuveVv6d6lI/AAAAAAAAAmU/dyAyeMwoLEc/s1600/jess+albarn+alison+goldfrapp.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kWSvOEXv_3s/UuveVv6d6lI/AAAAAAAAAmU/dyAyeMwoLEc/s1600/jess+albarn+alison+goldfrapp.png" height="320" width="220" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alison Goldfrapp - Jessica Albarn</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RsnRWYgVlUY/UuveVsBOFrI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/-FfTHxg87Bc/s1600/jess+albarn+butterfly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RsnRWYgVlUY/UuveVsBOFrI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/-FfTHxg87Bc/s1600/jess+albarn+butterfly.jpg" height="320" width="310" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butterfly - Jessica Albarn</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wgLZ291KEUU/UuveVeMlGgI/AAAAAAAAAmY/yUhAuZb3I4E/s1600/jessica+albarn+bee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wgLZ291KEUU/UuveVeMlGgI/AAAAAAAAAmY/yUhAuZb3I4E/s1600/jessica+albarn+bee.jpg" height="320" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bee - Jessica Albarn</td></tr>
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<br />Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-56452529644903186982014-01-24T13:16:00.000-08:002014-01-31T10:07:40.037-08:00FASHION: Haute Couture - S/S 2014<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Haute Couture 2014 was the year that saw trainers on the catwalk- not high-heeled, or vertiginously platformed trainers- but real (albeit it diamond studded) running shoes. With this bombshell over with - lets review my picks of the shows...</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T5fmd9AEAWw/UuLTcZJlSkI/AAAAAAAAAl4/6lb3Qqgp6ME/s1600/valentino+couture+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T5fmd9AEAWw/UuLTcZJlSkI/AAAAAAAAAl4/6lb3Qqgp6ME/s1600/valentino+couture+2014.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valentino - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Valentino is always one of my favourite couture shows, and this year was no different. Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli created a beautiful collection inspired by the rich cultural world of Opera. Every piece was breath-takingly beautiful and romantic - from the sparse, block-coloured dresses to the flowing and ethereal gowns. Lace, feathers and a bit of skin helped make the collection organically sensual.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bG8oacd82QE/UuKthAYZM1I/AAAAAAAAAik/kziT4czimEQ/s1600/Alexander+Vauthier+transparent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bG8oacd82QE/UuKthAYZM1I/AAAAAAAAAik/kziT4czimEQ/s1600/Alexander+Vauthier+transparent.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alexander Vauthier - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DAyQM-lX4mY/UuKthIdkjwI/AAAAAAAAAig/nbH50bp1DPw/s1600/Alexander+Vauthier+yellow+dress+couture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DAyQM-lX4mY/UuKthIdkjwI/AAAAAAAAAig/nbH50bp1DPw/s1600/Alexander+Vauthier+yellow+dress+couture.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alexander Vauthier - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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Alexander Vauthier's show was sexxxy up to the megawatts. Not all of it was to my taste, with leopard print gowns slashed to the thigh and off the shoulder asymettric dresses being the big misses. However his gold necklaces, studded collars and high-necked ruffled mini-dresses caught my eye.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ad3YPKeBDx8/UuKth2F0asI/AAAAAAAAAi4/N8ulWuPdizQ/s1600/chanel+couture+2014+peach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ad3YPKeBDx8/UuKth2F0asI/AAAAAAAAAi4/N8ulWuPdizQ/s1600/chanel+couture+2014+peach.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chanel - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t9_0ACOtu38/UuKtiF4XM4I/AAAAAAAAAi0/RqiRre_Apgw/s1600/chanel+couture+2014+white+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t9_0ACOtu38/UuKtiF4XM4I/AAAAAAAAAi0/RqiRre_Apgw/s1600/chanel+couture+2014+white+dress.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chanel - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sydFC_xobVA/UuKti_hnOXI/AAAAAAAAAi8/S07CrjBV3po/s1600/chanel+mermaid+couture+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sydFC_xobVA/UuKti_hnOXI/AAAAAAAAAi8/S07CrjBV3po/s1600/chanel+mermaid+couture+2014.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chanel - Couture - S/S 2014<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Karl Lagerfield was playful at Chanel this year - sending models down the catwalk in trainers and bejwelled knee protectors- the epitome of sports luxe, I think Chanel bumbags will be mandatory at most gyms this summer. The brilliant craftsmanship on the embellished gowns and lacy tops gave the clothes a delicate, feminine edge and dresses such as the mermaid-like one above kept things effortlessly sexy. Nice one Karl.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LryNlcQ4LCw/UuKtjCjul7I/AAAAAAAAAjQ/Kd1R3b_ft_o/s1600/christian+dior+couture+2014+black.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LryNlcQ4LCw/UuKtjCjul7I/AAAAAAAAAjQ/Kd1R3b_ft_o/s1600/christian+dior+couture+2014+black.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dior - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0zN8zxsw-Iw/UuKtjQjRpdI/AAAAAAAAAjM/D2qsS_y3r7A/s1600/christian+dior+couture+2014+skirt+top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0zN8zxsw-Iw/UuKtjQjRpdI/AAAAAAAAAjM/D2qsS_y3r7A/s1600/christian+dior+couture+2014+skirt+top.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dior - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I still miss the (kinda offensive) genius of Galliano at Dior, but Raf Simon's directive hand has given the label a new zest of life. The outfits had the same youthful feel as those over at Chanel, and came accesoriesd wiith trainers too! The swingy silhouettes gave the show an injection of fun, against the more classical Dior shapes - vouminous skirts and fitted tops. The window panel motif in many of the outfits reminded me of the mesh and patterns used by Sarah Burton in last year's Alexander McQueen bee-inspried line, which is no bad thing! Finally, Raf put on one show exclusively for students this year, which was a great nod towards the future of fashion. If nothing else, Raf certainly beats Galliano in the PR department...</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t1oa8-j2EUM/UuKtkFHdu3I/AAAAAAAAAjY/hI-XkfuAn6s/s1600/elie+saab+couture+2014+floral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t1oa8-j2EUM/UuKtkFHdu3I/AAAAAAAAAjY/hI-XkfuAn6s/s1600/elie+saab+couture+2014+floral.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elie Saab - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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Elie Saab is often a bit safe for me - but undeniably beautiful. This year's show was particularly pretty, finding inspiration in the works of the Dutch painter Lawrence Alma- Tadema. The above dress was a real stand-out for me, bringing together romance, fairytale and a bit of old-school glamour.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FMbcFFg_Rz0/UuKtkx4yziI/AAAAAAAAAjo/K-8CdhR7Ums/s1600/giambattista+valli+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FMbcFFg_Rz0/UuKtkx4yziI/AAAAAAAAAjo/K-8CdhR7Ums/s1600/giambattista+valli+dress.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giambattista Valli - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hYssXW5s4F4/UuKtlNC1_II/AAAAAAAAAjw/0hGv3nPk79s/s1600/giambattista+valli+leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hYssXW5s4F4/UuKtlNC1_II/AAAAAAAAAjw/0hGv3nPk79s/s1600/giambattista+valli+leaves.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giambattista Valli - Couture - S/S 2014<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">We could have seen what the models had for breakfast - had they had any - over at Giambattista Valli as he brought the mini-skirt to centre stage. Trademark jewel-rich colours, voluminous skirts and florals all ensured that the show remained true to the Giambattista style. This mint green leaf-motif dress stood out for me however, with its delicate simplicity.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pwPn6k5qbwg/UuKtlv1ITRI/AAAAAAAAAj0/wliYpaFOsP8/s1600/giorgio+armani+prive+blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pwPn6k5qbwg/UuKtlv1ITRI/AAAAAAAAAj0/wliYpaFOsP8/s1600/giorgio+armani+prive+blue.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giorgio Armani Prive - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UnwaL_38wSI/UuKtmOEf7hI/AAAAAAAAAkE/o19TqSZA3Sk/s1600/giorgio+armani+prive+dress+couture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UnwaL_38wSI/UuKtmOEf7hI/AAAAAAAAAkE/o19TqSZA3Sk/s1600/giorgio+armani+prive+dress+couture.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giorgio Armani Prive - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LdIqes_mzj8/UuKtmrJS5qI/AAAAAAAAAkI/7uQsgYhJkIc/s1600/giorgio+armani+prive+suit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LdIqes_mzj8/UuKtmrJS5qI/AAAAAAAAAkI/7uQsgYhJkIc/s1600/giorgio+armani+prive+suit.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giorgio Armani Prive - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I absolutely LOVED Giorgio Armani Prive's offering for 2014. It blended 20s glamour with exotic influences in pieces which were beautifully luxurious. Sheer fabrics, eastern Oriental embellishments and shimmering blues and silver gave the collection a sophisticated feel in contrast with the frivolity of the Chanel and Dior shows. If I were attending the Oscars this year, I'd die of surprise. I'd then go out and get myself an Armani Prive dress.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6fEVNiQ0fHg/UuKtnB5n9uI/AAAAAAAAAkM/KJUqeLduAqs/s1600/jean+paul+gaultier+blue+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6fEVNiQ0fHg/UuKtnB5n9uI/AAAAAAAAAkM/KJUqeLduAqs/s1600/jean+paul+gaultier+blue+dress.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jean Paul Gaultier - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NyFkZSj-MrQ/UuKtnWcV2-I/AAAAAAAAAkg/nShGrLty0zQ/s1600/jean+paul+gaultier+couture+butterfly+blouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NyFkZSj-MrQ/UuKtnWcV2-I/AAAAAAAAAkg/nShGrLty0zQ/s1600/jean+paul+gaultier+couture+butterfly+blouse.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jean Paul Gaultier - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sDts_wZbdm4/UuKtnpVyIQI/AAAAAAAAAkc/Xv6nb0teFJo/s1600/jpg+blue+butterfly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sDts_wZbdm4/UuKtnpVyIQI/AAAAAAAAAkc/Xv6nb0teFJo/s1600/jpg+blue+butterfly.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jean Paul Gaultier</td></tr>
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Jean Paul Gaultier always brings a bit of hot fun to the catwalk and this year was no different. Using a butterfly motif across the collection, the pieces were bright, fluttering, enthralling creations; not girly girly butterflies - but wild exotic bugs. The butterfly shirt teamed with red gloves is a look that I'm sure will be recreated for the high street - and i'll be first in line to copy it.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fer3ytofjzI/UuLV6HN--eI/AAAAAAAAAl8/MUPghrOeo_M/s1600/ralph+russo+couture+2014.jpg" height="320" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="213" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ralph & Russo - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Ralph & Russo's collection was a sophisticated affair - with clean shapes and even cleaner whites dominating the runway. However, it was studded with a few sumptuous dresses which kept things exciting. The above red dress is sure to make it to an awards show at one time or another - though it may clash with the carpet. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GL98BhCw5yo/UuLSIrbc4oI/AAAAAAAAAlw/SFYOkbxPwic/s1600/ulyana+sergeenko.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GL98BhCw5yo/UuLSIrbc4oI/AAAAAAAAAlw/SFYOkbxPwic/s1600/ulyana+sergeenko.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ulyana Sergeenko - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TXjhkaZNch0/UuKtp9GXeMI/AAAAAAAAAlI/1XpgPffo0RI/s1600/ulyana+sergeenko+blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TXjhkaZNch0/UuKtp9GXeMI/AAAAAAAAAlI/1XpgPffo0RI/s1600/ulyana+sergeenko+blue.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ulyana Sergeenko - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The 'femme fatale' who provided the centre piece of Ulyana Sergeenko's collection wore so many outfits she must have been the best dressed person on transport, ever. Ulyana explained the show was a reimagining of a ride on the Orient Express - which I think is a slightly different calibre of locomotive to the Trans-Siberian railway or Southern trains. It was all deliciously fun, like watching Barbara Millicent Roberts (thats Barbie to you) at work.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">And finally, here's a few highlights from the other shows... Marco Zanini made his Schiaparelli debut, Stephane Rolland went bright and theatrical and Alexis Mabille made dresses fit for a princess. Enjoy.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UQCUOsSZbF8/UuKto73FJ_I/AAAAAAAAAlA/yhhoVYTC198/s1600/schiaparelli.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UQCUOsSZbF8/UuKto73FJ_I/AAAAAAAAAlA/yhhoVYTC198/s1600/schiaparelli.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Schiaperelli - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XEQZIbQbKeE/UuKtpUdA7YI/AAAAAAAAAk4/OjPE1pZOjhk/s1600/stephane+rolland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XEQZIbQbKeE/UuKtpUdA7YI/AAAAAAAAAk4/OjPE1pZOjhk/s1600/stephane+rolland.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stephane Rolland - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tWdDzctrPs4/UuKthN-an-I/AAAAAAAAAio/9YXXJxcsJiE/s1600/Alexis+Mabille+couture+blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tWdDzctrPs4/UuKthN-an-I/AAAAAAAAAio/9YXXJxcsJiE/s1600/Alexis+Mabille+couture+blue.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alexis Mabille - Couture - S/S 2014</td></tr>
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Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-73522380554091167892014-01-16T08:55:00.002-08:002014-01-16T08:55:29.423-08:00FASHION: Happy 40th Kate MossI. Am. Obsessed. With. Kate. Moss.<br />
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To celebrate the Brit icon's 40th Birthday I want to share with you some of my favourite shots.<br />
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I hold her solely responsible for helping me fall in love with my small t**s.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gqL20_OWgrE/UtgO2AQjdII/AAAAAAAAAg4/q5pRWBG9Jcg/s1600/kate+moss+1992+balloons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gqL20_OWgrE/UtgO2AQjdII/AAAAAAAAAg4/q5pRWBG9Jcg/s1600/kate+moss+1992+balloons.jpg" height="320" width="247" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kZLfMUhZ_44/UtgO2pS6grI/AAAAAAAAAhY/6QoLKPUqcQM/s1600/kate+moss+another+mag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kZLfMUhZ_44/UtgO2pS6grI/AAAAAAAAAhY/6QoLKPUqcQM/s1600/kate+moss+another+mag.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9uydKWHmCvY/UtgO2p6W_6I/AAAAAAAAAg8/iJY10WGmD0I/s1600/kate+moss+bath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9uydKWHmCvY/UtgO2p6W_6I/AAAAAAAAAg8/iJY10WGmD0I/s1600/kate+moss+bath.jpg" height="320" width="234" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5w6FJOx7tJQ/UtgO2_B2kbI/AAAAAAAAAhA/MwlEgh0y3_c/s1600/kate+moss+jeans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5w6FJOx7tJQ/UtgO2_B2kbI/AAAAAAAAAhA/MwlEgh0y3_c/s1600/kate+moss+jeans.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EFcPBuRgYmw/UtgO3CR7c-I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/k3j4NihiczY/s1600/kate+moss+nude.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EFcPBuRgYmw/UtgO3CR7c-I/AAAAAAAAAhQ/k3j4NihiczY/s1600/kate+moss+nude.jpg" height="230" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p1UlWvCqeOs/UtgO3-EQM4I/AAAAAAAAAhU/rvHMoahqJtY/s1600/kate+moss+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p1UlWvCqeOs/UtgO3-EQM4I/AAAAAAAAAhU/rvHMoahqJtY/s1600/kate+moss+party.jpg" height="210" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L6bX8IrznFo/UtgO4inQC0I/AAAAAAAAAhs/NsAuUB1MAR0/s1600/kate+moss+round+glasses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L6bX8IrznFo/UtgO4inQC0I/AAAAAAAAAhs/NsAuUB1MAR0/s1600/kate+moss+round+glasses.jpg" height="320" width="245" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AGqJn0KOImQ/UtgO4kfYqNI/AAAAAAAAAho/wowwn9mYmhE/s1600/kate+moss+thats+my+bitch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AGqJn0KOImQ/UtgO4kfYqNI/AAAAAAAAAho/wowwn9mYmhE/s1600/kate+moss+thats+my+bitch.jpg" height="320" width="215" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5nxRPOCf8b8/UtgO5DfqlNI/AAAAAAAAAh0/8GeXMgGnRzg/s1600/kate+moss+vanity+fair+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5nxRPOCf8b8/UtgO5DfqlNI/AAAAAAAAAh0/8GeXMgGnRzg/s1600/kate+moss+vanity+fair+cover.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T0PvWgdohPw/UtgO5zgA6zI/AAAAAAAAAiA/J2L1Wn8BBU8/s1600/kate+moss+vogue+xmas+card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T0PvWgdohPw/UtgO5zgA6zI/AAAAAAAAAiA/J2L1Wn8BBU8/s1600/kate+moss+vogue+xmas+card.jpg" height="320" width="232" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_kMnhk_0qiQ/UtgOz9JUC5I/AAAAAAAAAgo/uU70SgIkkPM/s1600/Kate-Moss-main_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_kMnhk_0qiQ/UtgOz9JUC5I/AAAAAAAAAgo/uU70SgIkkPM/s1600/Kate-Moss-main_12.jpg" height="320" width="253" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P5j4J91OEt4/UtgO6eqBlGI/AAAAAAAAAiE/xkhYaPxp_I0/s1600/katemoss1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P5j4J91OEt4/UtgO6eqBlGI/AAAAAAAAAiE/xkhYaPxp_I0/s1600/katemoss1.jpg" height="320" width="242" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rJBd_f3O45k/UtgO1eDg3LI/AAAAAAAAAgw/fFgj4fy6wjU/s1600/KateMoss&Rihanna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rJBd_f3O45k/UtgO1eDg3LI/AAAAAAAAAgw/fFgj4fy6wjU/s1600/KateMoss&Rihanna.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a></div>
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GCDry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-34294183499574838122014-01-10T05:07:00.003-08:002014-01-10T05:16:22.797-08:00MUSIC: Reviews: 2013 - Girlplay<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ok, so I might be a bit late on this - but 2013 really was a killer year for some of my favorite female artists, home and abroad, new and old. Of course I loved Ye's Yeezus, Disclosure's Settle and a bit of Arctic Monkeys AM, but away from the testosterone, there's 4 albums that stood out for me - ones that I'm sure to be hammering way into 2014. </span><br />
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<i>'I woke up like dis... I woke up like dis' - ***Flawless feat. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie</i></span><br />
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1. <span style="background-color: white;">Beyoncé </span>(Yonc<span style="background-color: white;">é</span>, Bey, Mrs Carter etc etc) - <span style="background-color: white;">Beyoncé</span></span><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Drunk in Love feat. Jay-Z</span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What can I say about this album? - it's dominated conversations between me and most of my female friends for the past month, and it's caused full-blown arguments at recent meals out. From the moment my best friend woke me with the news that Queen B had dropped a whole 'visual album' overnight, I've developed a proper love affair with the record. Arrestingly different</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> from first listen, this album is also a MASSIVE grower - from <i>Pretty Hurts</i> via<i> Superpower</i> to<i> Drunk in Love</i>, </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Beyoncé takes us on a journey into her life as a mother, wife, sister, business woman, sexual-being and full blown feminist; the latter in particular has attracted a great deal of attention, and solidified my respect for the artist. The track <i>***Flawless</i> samples from a Tedx talk given by Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, entitled "We should all be feminists" (catch it <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hg3umXU_qWc" target="_blank">here</a>). I was lucky enough to hear Chimamanda speak about her life and work back in 2007 and she's been a great influence ever since - it's brilliant to see Beyonc</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">é bringing her to the masses</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. Dismiss Yonc</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">é </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">as pop-machinery if you will, but no other artist in my lifetime has so successfully sound-tracked my existence from angsty teen to 'Grown Woman'. All hail </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Beyoncé </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. </span><br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white;">'Feminist - </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">a person who believes in the social, economic and political equality of the sexes' - ***Flawless</span></i></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><i>'Belly flop into a swimming pool of sound' - Faith feat. Laurence Aldridge</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">2. VV Brown - Samson & Delilah</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><i>The Apple</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">I don't think I've known a record as well as this one in <i>forever,</i> after playing it on repeat when it first dropped back in September. Hailed by Popjustice as 'one of the albums of the year' and generally sending shockwaves through a music industry that had all but written her off, Brown's self-released Samson & Delilah redefined my ears. The album as a whole had a beautiful synchronicity to it, which meant listening to it in its entirety was a complete pleasure- something we need more of in today's single focused world. Favourite tracks include the beautiful duet <i>Faith</i>, the haunting <i>Substitute for Love</i> and the almost Killers-esque <i>Ghosts</i>. Having been lucky enough to watch VV Brown four times this year - including her brilliant Jools Holland </span></span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">performance in October - I can safely say she's got a new superfan. I'll be keeping a close eye on watch she does next.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><i>'We rule the world, and chase down our enemies' - Igneous</i></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><i><br /></i></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>'I drink some Cointreau, keep it in my poncho' - Y.A.L.A.</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">3. M.I.A - Mathangi</span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;"><i>M.I.A - Y.A.L.A.</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Like VV Brown, M.I.A has been busy getting her creative genius to work in the fashion industry whilst still making killer beats. Her brilliant <a href="http://fashion.telegraph.co.uk/article/TMG10383225/M.I.A.-x-Versus-Versace-collection-unveiled.html" target="_blank">Versace collaboration</a> hit stores about a month before her fourth record - and promised me that her new venture would be as visually stunning as it was audibly cool. Mathangi's blend of hindu iconology and internet hashtags clearly demonstrates M.I.A's ability to breezily straddle old and new, high culture and pop culture. But M.I.A is nothing if not divisive, and a recent chat with my male friend saw him call her flow 'annoying'. The thing is, with M.I.A sometimes I think thats kind of the point. Still as achingly trendy as a London hipster, M.I.A has managed to retain that teen-like anarchist spirit way into her thirties. Her songs sound like no one else, and whether you think that's a good thing or a bad thing, you can't deny that Mathangi breaks new barriers. Kicking out <i>Y.A.L.A</i>, <i>Come Walk With Me</i>, <i>Bad Girls</i> and <i>Bring the Noize</i> whilst strutting to work, or pre-drinking with the girls, is still my favourite past-time. </span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><i>'If you only live once why we keep doing the same shit? Back home where I come from we keep being born again and again and again, thats why they invented karma' - Y.A.L.A.</i></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>'I need someone who knows, someone who gives a fuck' - Enemy</i></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Kelela - Cut 4 Me</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;"><i>Floor Show</i></span></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The importance of the production on this debut mix-tape from Kelela is clear from the decision to name check the producer on every track. Stripped down and yet richly melodic, the 30 year-old LA based singer has created her own distinct genre alongside briliiant array on contributors. Sonically and lyrically Cut 4 Me has a sad and sexy sound throughout, reminding me slightly of Delilah's 2012 offering: From the Roots Up. Kelela has been lauded as 'one to watch in 2014' and Cut 4 Me was namechecked on more than few 'Album of the year' countdowns, I only hope this wont prove too much hype to sustain. We will have to cross our fingers and wait... </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>'Sad we couldn't go any deeper, something tells me you're a keeper' - Bank Head</i></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So there's my round-up of the girls that soundtracked 2013 for me. In 2014 keep an eye out for Twigz' debut album, Azaelia Bank's notoriously delayed 'Broke With Expensive Taste', Grimes' rumoured 'Visions' follow up and a potential L Boogie comeback?</span></span><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">FKA Twigs - Water Me</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Azealia Banks - Liquorice</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Grimes - Genesis</span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Lauryn Hill - Mystery of Inequity</span></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-6036146497839658192013-11-01T08:44:00.002-07:002014-02-28T03:53:59.485-08:00MUSIC: Clean Bandit @ Digital – 27th October 2013<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">This weekend I found myself as the happy recipient of a last
minute ticket for a band that I’d heard a whisper of but didn’t know nearly
well enough to know what a live show would be like. I usually like to know a
brief history and at least half of a bands’ back catalogue to not only inform
myself on who exactly I’m watching, but also to know what songs I can afford to
miss when my Red Stripe runs empty.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Clean Bandit were a band introduced to me by my housemate,
and for the first time in a long time I find myself faced with a conundrum –
they’re an act so obscure that I have no point of reference to recommend them.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.highsnobiety.com/files/2013/06/Clean-Bandit-IMAGE-highsnobiety-00-630x315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.highsnobiety.com/files/2013/06/Clean-Bandit-IMAGE-highsnobiety-00-630x315.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Usually it’s relatively easily to conjure at least a vague
image of what to expect by comparing what two bands would have birthed said
artist had they copulated – for example London Grammar could easily be the
result of an unprotected fumble between The Eurythmics and The xx. However with
Cambridge-born Clean Bandit, there are not so much two parents but more a rich
back history of cross-breeding more commonly seen in mongrels than in
musicians. You wouldn’t think that electric pop, hints of garage and classic
strings would work well if all sloshed together, but somehow Clean Bandit
manage it. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">With a reputation almost as underground as the leaky
seafront venue, I was surprised not only to see a full house but also a support
act that actually held my attention rather than encouraging me to slope off the
smoking area where my housemate is bargaining a roll up from an eighteen year
old. Mausi, a London-based electro-pop outfit, churn out tunes that are irritatingly
catchy and impossible not to dance to. Their energy apparently knows no bounds,
and a post-performance investigation on SoundCloud proves that this positivity
isn’t just limited to live shows; you can hear more of their material <a href="https://soundcloud.com/wearemausi">here</a>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">After a brief break and a fifteen year old fan faceplanting
the floor, Clean Bandit ascend the stage with barely an introduction and
immediately throw themselves into the show. The band holds no bars during their
performance, combining an almost endless list of influences in a genre broadly
coined as “folktronica”. Clean Bandit perform with the passion and timing that
you’d expect from a band that have been doing this for years, let alone from a fresh-faced
group that look as if they could have just left their first practise session in
a garage in Greenwich after handing in their dissertation.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I find it surprising that <a href="http://www.nme.com/reviews/clean-bandit/14635">NME damply rated their
2013 single</a> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Dust Clears</i> as a song
that “gently requests that you shuffle on the dance floor for 10 seconds or so
rather than demand you hit up an all-night rave”. Whilst admittedly I find
their recorded releases a little lacklustre when compared to their live set,
the less-than-enthusiastic reception wasn’t entirely deserved.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Several singles are available through Spotify which I would
recommend to those who have a healthy set of bass amplifying headphones and an
active imagination. A favourite track from the set could possibly be “Wildfire”,
a song with a beat that vibrates the gyrating crowd and doesn’t seem at all out
of place at Digital, a dance den that hosted Disclosure only months before. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7568362077663750889" name="_GoBack"></a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">As this was the closing night of their recent tour, those
looking to witness Clean Bandit at their genre-bending best may have a
worthwhile wait ahead to see them at their best.</span></div>
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<!--EndFragment-->Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-15026198478332837242013-10-29T15:10:00.001-07:002013-10-29T15:15:11.778-07:00Mac DeMarco - Ode to Viceroy<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So I'm addicted to Mac DeMarco's 2 album; in particular "Ode to Viceroy". After a year hammering highly produced albums, this mishmash of early Fleetwood Mac/ Sergeant Peppers is nicely understated. Here it is - enjoy: </span><br />
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Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-42573816034960405362013-10-24T02:56:00.000-07:002013-10-24T02:56:44.069-07:00FASHION: Kate Moss: Roll 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Anyone that knows me is well aware of my obsession with Kate Moss. As a 90s girl I've never grown out of the mindset that sees Kate Moss as the epitome of beauty; wide eyed, toothy and just a little bit grimey her look is both completely ethereal and yet somewhat in reach.<br />
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So working with David Ross, the photographer who shot Moss for her first ever professional photo shoot, age just 14, has been an exciting experience. The images - which go on show for the first time ever at the new Lawrence Alkin Gallery next week - are fresh and exciting, showing the Moss Sarah Doukas scouted for the newly formed Storm agency. The show promises to be a far cry from her upcoming shoot with Playboy, which she recently confirmed for their 60th Anniversary issue.<br />
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It's hard to find a new angle on such a photographed face, but these images are set to cause some real excitement, especially on the eve of Ms Moss' 40th Birthday. <a href="http://www.artrepublic.com/articles/446-lawrence-alkin-gallery-the-new-name-for-artrepublic-soho.html" target="_blank">Opening to the public from 30th Oct - 3rd Nov</a> this is a must see-exhibition for anyone with a passion for Kate Moss.<br />
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<br />Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-60348620772270336532013-08-01T06:31:00.002-07:002013-08-01T07:29:06.266-07:00Going Out: National Orgasm Day with LELO at Sh! Hoxton<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So who knew? - July 31st is National Orgasm day, and I was invited along to attend a party thrown by luxury lifestyle brand <a href="http://www.lelo.com/" target="_blank">LELO </a>at <a href="http://www.sh-womenstore.com/" target="_blank">Sh! Erotic Emporium</a> in Hoxton to celebrate. Alongside fizz, strawberries and a whole load of vibrators, we listened to an orgasm masterclass by the founder of Sh! - Kathryn Hoyle, which was inspiring as much as exciting; Kathryn founded Sh! in 1992 to combat the idea of sex shops as sleazy, and to create a place where women could share sex stories whilst stocking up on their latest rabbit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Central to the evening were the amazing LELO range- which I have only recently stumbled upon (as it were). LELO prides itself on hi-end luxe products, and being introduced to their Smart Wands, Luna Beads and Tiani 2 I couldn't help but feel that these guys are the Beyonce of sex toys. If you're just starting off in the world of rechargeable sex look no further than their MIA2, small, pretty yet helluva powerful, the MIA2 disguises itself as a lipstick and charges via USB: ideal for the woman on the go. After last night however, and hearing Kathryn's take on it all, I've got my eyes fixed on the INA2 - a dual action vibrator which offers G-spot and clitoral stimulation. Ummmmmm.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The evening certainly got us thinking about how much fun can be stylishly had 'in the bedroom'. The LELO girls explained about their remote-controlled range which adds a nice new dimension to foreplay, with your partner being put in control of any toys you might use. The Lyla2, Tiani2 and the Oden2 all come with LELO's sense motion remote control, so with the flick of the wrist pleasures can intensify or lighten.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">At the end of the evening I left with an amazing goodie bag, which amazingly included a LELO 'Pleasure Set' - complete with Tiani, a feature tickler and silk blindfold. I'll let you know how that goes down...</span></div>
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Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-42371975881844669472013-07-19T07:27:00.000-07:002013-07-26T03:23:22.385-07:00Music Review: Frank Ocean at 02 Academy Brixton<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This
summer <st1:placename w:st="on">Frank</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Ocean</st1:placename>
returned to the <st1:country-region w:st="on">UK</st1:country-region>
for two sold out shows at the O2 Academy Brixton; his first headline appearances
since the release of his debut studio album <i>Channel
Orange</i> in 2012. Between
the release of said album, a publicised confessional blog post confirming his
love for another man and a car park scrap with the human scab that is Chris
Brown, Ocean has more than built a name for himself outside of his previous
affiliation with offensive outfit Odd Future. Following
his success at ceremonies such as the Brits and Grammy’s, hype stood at its
highest, leaving Frank with a lot to prove.</div>
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The
first thing that instantly hits me about <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Frank</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Ocean</st1:placename></st1:place>
performing live is the odd sense of calm and sensibility. He doesn’t
appear with the swag that one might presume from the friend of the infamous <st1:city w:st="on">Tyler</st1:city> the Creator, but almost seems to apologise for his presence as if it
were an intrusion; his demeanour is oddly reminiscent of a
boyfriend when you first introduce them to your parents. Frank’s performance begs for instant forgiveness.</div>
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Positioning
himself directly between a stage-side spotlight and a passing cloud of dry ice,
Ocean is obscured as his vocals emanate eerily unseen. Purposeful to never be
pigeon-holed, his voice ranges with an ethereal ease – soul, hip hop and RnB
roll together without so much as a pause for breath. Ocean
flows seamlessly between tracks with a lack of audience interaction which
admittedly is a little irritating, only briefly stopping to announce the
performances of previously unheard tracks “Feel California” and “Anything for
You”. Alongside singles from <i>Channel Orange</i>,
Ocean digresses to his backlog of early mix-tapes throughout his set, featuring
an acappella version of “Swim Good” from <i>Nostalgia,
Ultra</i> where his lyrics are echoed by the audience, his own vocals almost
drowned out.</div>
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Clearly
not forgetting his past as Christopher “Lonny” Breaux (as he was known before
changing his name), Ocean includes the little known track “Acura Integurl” from
<i>The Lonny Breaux Collection</i>, that
although lasts less than two minutes could possibly be one of the most
beautiful songs I’ll experience this decade. “Pyramids” receives the biggest
reaction of the evening, having become somewhat of a cult classic without ever
selling well as a single (only reaching No.129 in the <st1:country-region w:st="on">UK</st1:country-region> chart), and
the audience sway in synchronicity, hypnotised by the hook of the synthesiser. </div>
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The show ends rather abruptly, the house lights return to full beam and the lack
of encore is a little disappointing but perhaps not surprising, given Ocean’s
reluctance to engage despite his obvious brilliance. Although his vocals never falter, I
couldn’t help but feel the need to clamber onstage to offer a consoling cuddle
and a promise that everything with be alright.</div>
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Despite
this, it is <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Frank</st1:placename>
<st1:placename w:st="on">Ocean</st1:placename></st1:place>’s sheer gift as a
rapper, poet, singer and songwriter that enables him to still stand tall as a
truly unique and unparalleled talent. </div>
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Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-21572227004814310502013-07-02T11:22:00.001-07:002013-07-02T11:22:19.102-07:00ART: Nuart 2013 PreviewCan I just take a second to preview the amazing lineup at this year's Nuart festival in Norway!?<br />
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You might remember that I lost my Nuart virginity <a href="http://dryshampoodiaries.blogspot.co.uk/2012/10/last-week-i-was-lucky-enough-to-travel.html" target="_blank">last September</a>, and ever since I've been a complete fangirl. 2013 looks set to be brilliant - with more artists yet to be confirmed; here's a quick DSD round-up of our favourites.<br />
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<b>DALeast</b><br />
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I'm familiar with DALeast after working with him earlier this year at his DALeast London Dare show. The Chinese artist's 3D images prove that urban artists are in no way lacking in technical skill. Seeing is believing:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DALeast - Art Basel</td></tr>
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<b>Aiko</b><br />
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Always good to see a female among the cockfest which can be Nuart (although the amazing ms. Swoon has been one of the favourite artists ever shown here). Aiko, or Lady Aiko to give her full title, has done some of the prettiest murals I've ever seen - which means it came as no surprise when Louis Vuitton asked her to collaborate on a silk scarf for their Spring/ Summer 2013 collection. The Japanese artist used to work for Haruki Murakami and appeared in Exit Through The Gift Shop. 'Nuff said.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HFWBr0j2Ves/UdMTmLIXFPI/AAAAAAAAAcA/aSjXXmy-VPY/s730/aiko+louis+vuitton+scarf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HFWBr0j2Ves/UdMTmLIXFPI/AAAAAAAAAcA/aSjXXmy-VPY/s400/aiko+louis+vuitton+scarf.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aiko for Louis Vuitton S/S 2013</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6-m5_K5e6Gg/UdMTlh5GQ2I/AAAAAAAAAb4/LbLb4rQG3aE/s730/aiko+spray+cans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6-m5_K5e6Gg/UdMTlh5GQ2I/AAAAAAAAAb4/LbLb4rQG3aE/s320/aiko+spray+cans.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aiko Spray Cans</td></tr>
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<b>Ernest Zacharevic</b><br />
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The disappointment that he didn't chose a slightly more zany pseudonym over his (albeit also catchy) real name, soon fades when you're hit between the eyes by one Ernest's striking urban pieces. Combining the humour which distinguishes street art from much of its gallery-hung counterparts, with his enviably beautiful artistic skill, Ernest reminds us that graffiti is not just for those who 'can't paint good':<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4CeQLC2bzGI/UdMVlfU7tGI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/7KBZjlSptU0/s600/street-art-by-ernest-zacharevic-in-penang-malaysia-1346706537_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="454" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4CeQLC2bzGI/UdMVlfU7tGI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/7KBZjlSptU0/s640/street-art-by-ernest-zacharevic-in-penang-malaysia-1346706537_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ernest Zacharevic - Malaysia</td></tr>
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<b>Martha Cooper</b><br />
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Though not strictly a street artist, Martha was integral to the spread of US graffiti culture during the 70s and 80s - and beyond. After a chance encounter with a young graff enthusiast, Martha decided to document the art she came upon during her day-to-day life in New York. 2013 saw a mural painted in Martha's honour by several street-artist (including my 2012 pick HowNosm), christening her the queen of Bleeker street - if only temporarily. We expect Nuart 2013 will be showcasing some of her most striking photographs whilst paying tribute to this fantastically talented photojournalist:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_n3VqAqIe-k/UdMYDiRutWI/AAAAAAAAAcg/GcsC837DHZQ/s620/martha-cooper-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_n3VqAqIe-k/UdMYDiRutWI/AAAAAAAAAcg/GcsC837DHZQ/s640/martha-cooper-.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Martha Cooper</td></tr>
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The above list is by no means exhaustive and we'll be keeping you informed of updates. Meanwhile, let us know who you're most looking forward to catching at Nuart OR Numusic festival below, and check out Nuart 2013 <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NUARTFESTIVAL" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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GCDry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-14774361507778128092013-06-27T09:21:00.000-07:002013-06-27T09:21:12.134-07:00MUSIC: M.I.A Brings the Noize - gold editionUm so M.I.A. has dropped two brilliant videos for Bring The Noize and DSD's are buzzing.<br />
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First up is the straight video, all blue lights, pink hair and gold nails.<br />
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Then came the Matangi Gold Edition - a blinged out, 24k video which reminds us why she does promos so well.<br />
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Were still not quite sure when the fourth album (Matangi) will come out, but we're waiting with baited breath. Up until then this'll keep us nicely pumped. 'Paul Simon' on acid indeed.Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-30319289024749688672013-06-24T06:13:00.002-07:002013-06-24T06:20:24.593-07:00ART: Break Glass For a New Beginning - Magnus Gjoen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is the last week you can catch Magnus Gjoen's striking show 'Break Glass for a New Beginning' at artrepublic Soho. Hailed as 'Exodus for Generation-X' the exhibition
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">My interest was initially sparked in Gjoen due to his history working as a designer at Vivienne Westwood. It's nothing new to see the arts and fashion worlds collide, but there was something particularly delicious in noticing an ostensible </span><span style="line-height: 150%;">touch of the Vivienne Westwood punk-sensibility in Gjoen's weirdly beautiful pieces. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 22px;">'Break Glass for New Beginning's twisted sense of humour makes the show a bit of a must see for art fanatics and cynics alike, so make sure you pop down to the New Compton gallery before this saturday and check it out; never has Genesis looked so f***ing trendy.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"><br /></span></span>Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-27391450962954133162013-06-15T06:17:00.002-07:002013-06-15T06:18:34.209-07:00MUSIC: Preview: Getting some Faith in VV BrownI was lucky enough to catch a showcase of VV Brown's new album in Shoreditch a couple of months ago and I've been hooked to her new sound ever since. Though you can't deny the radio-appeal of her first album 'Travelling Like the Light' - which dropped singles 'Crying Blood' and the very successful 'Shark in the Water'- ultimately it just wasn't for me.<br />
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Following a few years hiatus (she's been starting her own clothes label and judging awards for the Observer, amongst other things...) Vanessa is back with a much darker, moodier and dirtier sound which showcases her kick-ass vocals perfectly. Brown has suggested her love for opera influenced this change in direction and the production, alongside her killer voice, certainly gives the album a theatrical feel - despite its generally stripped back sound. My absolute favourite so far is Faith - which has already been getting a lot of love on Twitter. Check it out below:<br />
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It's great to have such a talented british female singer back on the scene, alongside the recently reformed MKS (aka the original Sugababes), giving the US superstars some proper competition. Check her out now, before everyone gets involved...<br />
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Let me know what you think about VV's comeback in the comments section - and make your vote for the next single at Paco Rabanne <a href="http://www.pacorabanne.com/blackxs/uk/diary/be-the-producer/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<br />Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-23514149469268303862013-06-12T13:01:00.003-07:002013-06-12T13:01:40.204-07:00BEAUTY: Preview: RiRi Hearts Summer previewThe MAC/Rihanna Summer Collection is set to be released online on June 20th! I'd like to say I can see past celebrity collaborations, to the money spinners they really are, but both the Rihanna River Island line and the Ri Ri Hearts MAC ranges aren't to be sniffed at.<div>
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From the RI range I've managed to get two of my favourite wardrobe pieces this year: a black floor-length dress with a sexy thigh-high slit (modelled by the Diamonds singer herself below!) and a see-through floral shirt.</div>
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RiRi Woo lipsticks was pretty similar to MAC's original Ruby Woo shade but I still wouldn't mind getting my hands on it when it's 'rih'-released (it sold out within hours on its debut). RiRi Boy and Heaux now join the lipstick line-up, a matte purple and a deep berry matte, respectively (I'm leaning towards Boy).</div>
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Also on the Good Gal Gone Bad's summer menu is a blush duo called 'Hibiscus Kiss' and lustre drops named 'Barbados Girl'- naturally. </div>
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Sharpen those claws for June 20 guys - the heat is on! Meanwhile, I'm off to see the gal herself this Saturday! - #phuckme #rihrihNavy #watyagon'do etc etc...</div>
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Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-44320604587114017252013-03-05T09:08:00.004-08:002013-07-02T07:56:13.480-07:00REVIEW: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel London - Tower of London<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Being complete Londonphiles, me and my latest squeeze (what does that even mean?) love nothing more than booking a weekend together in the big Smoke. Of course, this isn't always cheap or easy, and we've stayed in some "interesting" places. Recently, however, we found the <a href="http://doubletree3.hilton.com/en/hotels/united-kingdom/doubletree-by-hilton-hotel-london-tower-of-london-LONTLDI/index.html" target="_blank">DoubleTree Hilton by the Tower of London</a> and booked it last minute - and I really couldn't recommend it enough (in fact I'm back this weekend for my birthday!). After realising we'd booked an 'accessible room' which was sadly bathtub free - I have to bath at a hotel - they helped me upgrade to a 'city suite'.<br />
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The suite is really worth the upgrade fee if you fancy a bit of understated luxury. Floor length windows provided a unexpectedly fantastic view across the Thames and Tower Bridge from the lounge area - which meant that, instead of going out for an afternoon drink after check-in, we opened up our welcome bottle of Red and enjoyed the space for a bit.<br />
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After dinner at Bodega Negra (which is fabulous too) we came back to try out the DoubleTree's top floor bar. With an amazing roof terrace for the warmer months the bar must take some beating for views. Going recession chic we tried their bottle of Prosecco which finished off the night perfectly.<br />
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The room was more than comfortable and breakfast in bed the next day, whilst looking out over the Thames, was a great indulgence! With Apple TV/computers in all the rooms we lounged around, watched the Labyrinth on DVD (cant get enough of Bowie and his codpiece) and surfed the net till late check out. It was all so relaxed and easy, it truly felt like a little mini-break.<br />
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What really makes DoubleTree Tower of London stand apart though is the excellent service. In the short time we stayed everyone made sure we made the best of our stay and couldn't do enough to help - and in the end that's what matters. A big thank you especially goes to Amy who did all she could to accommodate us!<br />
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A big thumbs up for the quietly stylish and swanky DoubleTree London - I look forward to relaxing there again soon!Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-78330628965575935192013-02-04T03:06:00.002-08:002013-02-04T03:08:50.939-08:00MUSIC: Beyonce Announces World Tour<br />
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BadGalBeyBey rocked the Super Bowl last night. We weren't too sure about the way they flung Michelle and Kelly from trap doors onto the stage half-way through (I thought Michelle was going to stack it) but it was also AMAZING to see Destiny's Child back together again. Then, if that wasn't enough, Beyonce announced her Mrs. Carter world tour with a sweet promo vid. Directed by Grammy award winning director Jonas Akurland, who's worked on everything from Madonna's 'Ray of Light' video to Gaga and Beyonce's Tarantino inspired 'Telephone', the short clip shows B rocking full on Royal garb complete with a Jigga-man broach. Check it here:<br />
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Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-53297135608215840932013-01-25T03:50:00.001-08:002013-01-25T03:50:24.586-08:00FASHION: Haute Couture S/S 2013So Haute Couture week S/S has come round again and I'm spending any free moment in my day desperately waiting for snippets of a dress, or an eyelash or even perhaps Lagerfield's Choupette in a perspex and lace 'cone of shame' to escape from the secrecy of the front row. My dedication was thankfully rewarded as slideshow after slideshow of fantastic dresses have appeared since Monday, with definite highlights from Valentino, Chanel, Dior and Jean Paul Gaultier (for me).<br />
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I can sit around discussing each look and its merits, but quite frankly only pictures do them justice - so here's a highlight of the catwalks so far...<br />
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Dior almost feels like a lifetime ago. Since disappearing down the rabbit hole with Raf Simon's Alice in Wonderland inspired show, we've trekked through enchancted forests (Chanel) and visited the eastern realms of Turkey (Giorgio Armani Prive) and Morroco (JPG). But Dior's show was one to be remembered. Only the second time Simon's has created a couture collection for the brand (and yes I do still miss Galliano, though not his anti-semitism), Raf has shown real awareness for Dior's legacy. Classic Dior shapes kept the collection cohesive with the brand, whilst see-through dresses and bright colours ensured it remained fresh.</div>
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Versace Prive's show also featured bright colours in the form of neons offsetting its statement metallics. It wasn't my favourite Versace couture collection, but it was fun and sexy, as Versace should be.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NFw7cgDgafw/UQJueydnwiI/AAAAAAAAATA/xMisluDw4_0/s1600/Versace+Couture+Vladimir+Potop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NFw7cgDgafw/UQJueydnwiI/AAAAAAAAATA/xMisluDw4_0/s320/Versace+Couture+Vladimir+Potop.jpg" width="194" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Versace - Vladimir Potop</td></tr>
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Giambattista Valli's third Couture outing cemented his place as a welcome addition to the shows. Beautiful shapes, fabrics and patterns added to a rather dreamy collection.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmTuldkeHv4/UQJut6Sh3nI/AAAAAAAAATQ/B9tJI5I9rBQ/s1600/Giambattista+Valli+couture+jewellery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZmTuldkeHv4/UQJut6Sh3nI/AAAAAAAAATQ/B9tJI5I9rBQ/s320/Giambattista+Valli+couture+jewellery.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giambattista Couture - Vogue.co.uk</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giambattista Valli - Vladimir Potop</td></tr>
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Next up was Lagerfield's Midsummer Nights Dream inspired show for Chanel. Combining gothic makeup with white lace, feathers, ethereal pastels, bold patterns and thigh high leather boots, the show was full of contrasts and yet was still Chanel cohesive. Lagerfield's closing statement of two brides holding hands with his little nephew clearly referenced his pro same-sex marriage stance, and whether you think the catwalk is a place for politics or not, you gotta appreciate some lesbian Couture.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3NNk4FRbqag/UQJvSNXtEyI/AAAAAAAAATY/8Ah2uFKifPo/s1600/chanel+reuters+purple+couture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3NNk4FRbqag/UQJvSNXtEyI/AAAAAAAAATY/8Ah2uFKifPo/s320/chanel+reuters+purple+couture.jpg" width="194" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chanel - Reuters</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chanel - Vadimir Potop</td></tr>
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Jean Paul Gaultier and Armani Prive injected some rich Eastern influences into both their collections. Where Armani utilised more simplistic styling (to full effect) JPG's line was a mixture between bright almost 70s style maxi skirts alongside more simple and sophisticated dresses adorned with bright veils.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xi6Oi4cFvPs/UQJveM9rC6I/AAAAAAAAATo/mOx9zK921Ok/s1600/Vogue+Jean+Paul+Gaultier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xi6Oi4cFvPs/UQJveM9rC6I/AAAAAAAAATo/mOx9zK921Ok/s320/Vogue+Jean+Paul+Gaultier.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jean Paul Gaultier - Vogue</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kv0slbqAXzs/UQJvePEMrTI/AAAAAAAAATs/ne1jnbgLmmY/s1600/Armani+Prive+Couture+Potop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kv0slbqAXzs/UQJvePEMrTI/AAAAAAAAATs/ne1jnbgLmmY/s320/Armani+Prive+Couture+Potop.jpg" width="194" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Armani Prive - Vladimir Potop</td></tr>
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Elie Saab's show was undoubtedly beautiful but lacked the drama of the others. Of course I'm sure it will transate to red carpets everywhere as Saab's creations always do. But the real jewel of the week was Valentino's stunning show. Utilising Valentino red against crisp white's and dramatic blacks the show demonstrated the enduring expertise of Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli. I can't do it justice so have a look at the highlights below.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valentino - Vladimir Potop<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I do not own the rights to these photos - they are from Telegraph.co.uk and Vogue.co.uk</span><br /><br /></div>
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Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7568362077663750889.post-913825699235272982012-10-09T02:55:00.002-07:002012-10-09T02:59:05.877-07:00ART: Nuart / Numusic Festival NorwayLast week I was lucky enough to travel to Stavanger, Norway for a work trip to Nuart/ Numusic festival. Stavanger isn't exactly a place I'd have considered travelling to normally, I'd kind of written of Scandinavia as a group of Sarah Lund's in jumpers and clogs, and Breivik hadn't exactly given Norway the best PR recently. However when it's free and and riddled with handsome street artists (oooh yes - don't believe me google HowNosm - You're welcome) I was there with ghetto gold knobs on.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hodkdpbP33Y/UHPzuIFx1SI/AAAAAAAAAR4/JTE4XTYCakY/s1600/numusic+brouchure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hodkdpbP33Y/UHPzuIFx1SI/AAAAAAAAAR4/JTE4XTYCakY/s320/numusic+brouchure.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Being the Bible belt of Norway Stavanger is sort of an odd location for a subversive art show, but it works. Tou Scene, the main hub of both Nuart and Numusic festival, was an old brewery and evoked that kind of 'Dalston-cool' vibe, minus the artifice. With disco balls in old beer vats and makeshift stages and dj booths erected over the brewery's 3 stories, this was the real deal, somewhere between a sexed-up youth club and a genial warehouse party.<br />
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Joining the music venue is a series of long tunnels which were handed over to some of the biggest names in street are, for them to do what they will with them. The likes of <a href="http://saberone.com/" target="_blank">Saber</a>, <a href="http://einesigns.co.uk/diary/" target="_blank">Eine</a>, Ron English, <a href="http://mobstr.org/" target="_blank">Mobstr</a>, <a href="http://hownosm.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">HowNosm</a>, <a href="http://www.aakashnihalani.com/" target="_blank">Aakash Nihalani</a> and <a href="http://www.nielsshoemeulman.com/" target="_blank">Neils Shoe Meulman</a> (who you might know from his Mos Def and Louis Vuitton collaboration about Muhammad Ali - see below) all contributed to turning Tou Scene into a sort of Nat Gal for street art (except far fucking noisier). Over the weekend Tou Scene become the centre point for this 'Cannes' of street art, where we talked graffiti, advertising, politics, smoking slippers and 'beef'.<br />
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Despite the high levels of testosterone - I thought we were going to be one member down at one point - and copious amounts of beer (the only thing we could drink for free) I found Stavanger decidedly escapist. The festival - built on ideas of unrestrained self expression, beauty and freedom - and set within the beautiful fjords of Norway (which you can tour on boat ) and crazy toy town buildings of Stavanger, was an unique experience.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eine</td></tr>
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I highly recommend the NuArt and NuMusic festivals to those who want to try a completely different festival vibe. By day wander the streets of Stavanger for chance encounters with ephemeral artworks, then by night nod your head or skank your heart out to the likes of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHixChYgGRI" target="_blank">The Orb</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jODJC-BoJJ0&feature=list_other&playnext=1&list=AL94UKMTqg-9ARBY04NBQcWndnRJULOX91" target="_blank">Mad Professor</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOGWjMGDNRM" target="_blank">CasioKids</a> - you can't get more Scandinavian cool than that.Dry Shampoo Diaristshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05940834261621685163noreply@blogger.com0