Latest blogs (SheerLuxe)

Early Mornings & Accessories...

Last Thursday was busy. First stop was a visit to Louboutin to take back my favourite shoes – a S/S patent nude peep toe with bow. They were a present from hubby and after one too many at a wedding the other weekend, one of the bows came off. When I woke up on Sunday morning with a headache, a bowless Louboutin and a bust laptop (again) I was feeling pretty blue...

But Louboutin couldn’t have been nicer and my pride and joys are winging their way to Paris to be repaired as we speak. (Now that’s good service for you.)

Next stop was a coffee with the Harvey Nichols press office followed by a glass of fizz at the relaunch of Wolford boutique (loving the Net & Lace tights collection) and finally, a slot with Nicky Kinnaird, founder of Space.NK. If there’s an article about an entrepreneur or an inspirational business woman I’ll read it so, I was intrigued to meet the lady who is responsible for bringing the best niche beauty brands to the UK.

Nicky did not disappoint. Beautiful skin, the glossiest hair (honestly) and very engaging. She told us her day begins at 5.30am with a run or a game of tennis, generally a bit of ‘me’ time.

I left with good intentions to get up earlier in the mornings. I also left feeling I wanted to splash out on accessories. Nicky was dressed in a stylish but simple outfit wearing a fabulous Marni necklace. Apparently accessories are her key - especially as she travels a lot.

You’ll be able to read more about Nicky when her Coffee With goes live soon.

This morning didn’t quite go to plan (5.30am is just TOO early) but I have ordered myself the most fabulous Bex Rox necklace...

You've Got Mail

Broadly speaking, there are two types of people in the world: those who get annoyed by things (sluggish broadband connections, slow-moving traffic, flat-pack furniture) and those who get annoyed by people (gum-chewing sales assistants, in-laws, flaky friends).

While my husband falls squarely into the former category, I undoubtedly have two Louboutin-clad size 42s in the latter. And one person who never fails to incite my irritation is the Royal Mail Special Delivery postman who works our neighbourhood.

Here’s the thing: I work from home, which means that samples and press packs get sent to my home address. But because I am at home with children, this postman – let’s call him Ernie – seems to assume that I am simply shopping up a storm while they nap or sit entranced by CBeebies.

“You housewives,” he guffaws – yes guffaws – every time I open the door to him. “Always shopping! Always buying off ebay! Does your husband know where his hard-earned money is going?”

The lovely DHL delivery driver who drops off my Matches and Net-a-Porter purchases, on the other hand, is unfailingly delightful and I’m always happy to see her – especially the other day, when she delivered my eagerly-awaited Anna Sui dress.

But back to Ernie. It’s all I can do not to snap at him “It’s WORK okay?? Not shopping, work!! And even if it was shopping, what business is it of yours?? People like me are keeping YOU in a job!”

My husband is amused by my outrage. “He’s just being friendly, making conversation,” he points out (simultaneously throwing the non-functioning remote control to the floor in barely-concealed fury) “And let’s face it, you do buy a lot online. What’s the problem?”

I struggle to overcome the fact that it’s now my husband who is annoying me. “It’s just, I don’t know, it’s just so presumptuous,” I say. “How dare he!”

Dave laughs. “How dare he!” he mimics in a falsetto, which I’m sure bears no resemblance to my actual voice. He shakes his head and comes over all “The Good Life”. “I dunno,” he says. “I thought I’d married Barbara, but I’m beginning to realise that you’re actually Margot.”

Too right, say I. A fondness for organic veg does not a Barbara make – foraging around in the back garden in grubby old wellies – no thank you. My weekly Abel and Cole deliveries are by far the more sensible option (and my delivery driver is so lovely) – and with autumn now unmistakably with us, I’m looking forward to a glut of butternut squash to make into soups and risottos. Except that, like Margot, I’ll do it all with a stiff drink in my hand. Maybe next time Ernie rings the bell at 7am, I’ll make sure I’m holding a G&T in one hand and a baby in the other. Let’s see what he has to say about that.

Boots Made For Walking...

Make the most of the cooler weather by stepping out in Autumn’s rich colour palette of rich reds, burnt oranges and rustic browns. Sometimes our usually-faithful ballet pumps just won’t cut it for trekking through the squelchy Autumn leaves. It’s the perfect excuse for investing in a pair of trusty leather boots.

Thanks to the world wide web, rain cannot deter me from embarking upon a shopping spree. On my last internet haul, I found the perfect winter boots in the most unlikely of places.

Vagabond isn’t my usual go-to, but I simply couldn’t pass up their Crivits knee high boots.

Being knee-high and a gorgeous tan colour, they tick all the boxes, and give a nod to this season’s 70s trend without being eye-rollingly retro.

And at £109.99, they’re pretty credit crunch-friendly, too.

Wear these with pride as you (carefully) tread amongst the squidgy, slippery leaves and jump over puddles. Americans don't call this season 'Fall' for no reason.

Little Luxuries...

Since I have started running my own business, little luxuries have had to take a bit of a back seat, which as any woman knows, is a hard thing to do.

A friend of mine recently introduced me to a new home company. As she started to describe it my hands immediately reached out to note down the name and web address.

Bed linen is my downfall, my one big luxury. When you’ve had a hard day slaving over projections, cashflow and web stats, there is nothing better than crashing into a bed with amazing sheets. I never really understood real 'bed luxury' but I do now.

Josephine Home provides best in class products. Simply designed, they are tailored to compliment contemporary interiors with a nature inspired range of colours. The cashmere socks are a season must have to keep tootsies warm in the winter and the cashmere throws are divine.

I also discovered that they have a new line, JH Trousseau. At an excellent price range, the design and quality is the stuff that (affordable) dreams were made of.

Whilst I was pondering over who else I could give the gorgeous bed socks to I remembered that I had forgotten, as promised, to order a new notebook for my business partner.

The ones we love to use are Moleskine. A tad more expensive than ordinary notebooks I know but they just go on forever and to be honest, if Ernst Hemingway got creative with his, then I can get creative with mine.

Although, it didn’t stop at one. I got another one for me and being ultra organized, I picked up two diaries for 2009 too. I’m off now to see if they do A4... Yes even the little stationery luxuries make me very happy.

There's A Massage Waiting For You...

I’m reeling. Reeling from the whirlwind that is London Fashion Week and the double whirlwind that is the start of the new fashion season. Not that the two events are on the same page, mind: former was about next spring (happily, in weather like this I can imagine next spring) and the latter is about autumn/winter (happily, in weather like this the term only conjures up crispness and long afternoons dappled in sunshine).

But to return to the reeling: mixed in this week was all the financial panic (as an ex-banker stuff of this magnitude still rivets me and of course, as a high-fashion retailer I watch things like Lehman going bust and wonder where it will all end). So suffice it to say, I am feeling pretty tightly wound up.

My mother always taught me that when the going gets tough, the tough get a serious massage and some attendant body-love. Physical well-being in times of acute tension has a direct bearing on mental well-being. No question about it.

So I have set about pondering my choices. Provided the kiddies and our 9 month old Lab can be kept on silent (read: sent away on play dates/a long walk) I know the best option ever is Perfectly At Home which brings its skills (health and beauty related) to your home.

A long time favourite of mine with its choice of massage treatments (the deep tissue is amazing but beware the following day aches and heed the therapist when she says ‘drink plenty of water’) this truly professional company brings you luxe in the form of spot-on customer service and a keen desire to go the extra mile.

The only reason I might prefer to venture elsewhere is because I need some really karmic level detox. And the Shymala Ayurveda Retreat is where I would head. With its authentic, well-researched potions, oils and treatments (including the deeply effective Panchkarma) this is a haven for intensive body love.

Whatever I choose I will begin my body unwind by indulging in what have to be the best, most superior body oils EVER -the range from India’s Forest Essentials. Pure, fragrant, heavenly and easy to use in the shower/bath. Made from plants, flowers and spices all grown at local farms in the foothills of the Himalayas, Forest Essential body oils truly put the treat in retreat.

So, being that the goings tough, you know where I am headed.

Delicous Wellicous...

Let’s face it, there’s nothing quite like slopping around in trackie Bs and a hoodie when the diary’s empty and the weather’s grey.

That said, hubby isn’t all that enamoured by my TBs and whilst I don’t exactly blame him, as a self confessed workaholic (at least four nights a week, my working day doesn’t end before 11pm) comfort is of paramount importance.

Denim is my day to day staple of choice when something smarter isn’t required (and even then I’d rather a tux / leather jacket and great shoes) but when I’m home, going nowhere and working weekends (the joys of running your own business!), I love my loungewear.

With the launch of Pyjama Room a couple of year ago, I made the conscious decision to update my loungewear wardrobe.

And when well being brand Wellicious entered the market earlier this year, I knew I’d made the right decision. My black roll top yoga (aka sit in front of laptop) pants have been worn to death.

As someone who feels the cold terribly (I get it from my mother – she sleeps with a hot water bottle and three extra blankets and that’s just in the summer months) I was grinning from ear to ear when Wellicious’ new Cashmere range popped into my inbox.

A cashmere poncho, cashmere legwarmers, cashmere pants and the most darling cashmere cardigan with bow (pictured) that all come in Satin Pink and London Grey.

The range is so stylish I can even venture outdoors in it. If I can prise myself away from my laptop that is...

Work Wear Wardrobe...

At SheerLuxe HQ we’re about to move into new offices! Very exciting, very busy and of course (you know me) the perfect excuse for some new “work wear”.

Well, actually we don’t really do work wear. I mean we don’t do pin stripe suits (thank God) but we do just about anything else. Beautiful blouses, sexy shoes, to die for dresses and just about any accessory! You name it, we’ll have It.

So I thought new snazzy offices equals time to embrace some of the power dressing trend this season. Obviously Britt Lintner and RM are on my wish list but after last week’s financial crisis I think High Street might be the next best thing.

So I’ve gone for some shoes, actually no, I’ve gone for some shoe boots! Yup I’ve picked up the perfect pair from Topshop and at only £55 I’m feeling rather virtuous.

Autumn in Foodie Terms...

One of the best things about England is the way the seasons change. You can't predict when it'll happen, and it's difficult to describe to anyone who hasn't lived here, but the time comes when you open your front door, breathe in the air and just know that Autumn has started. It's a smell, a crispness in the air, but more than that, it's a feeling, a sense of something tipping over into a new phase of the year.

In foodie terms, the arrival of Autumn means casseroles and a roast for Sunday lunch with friends, thick soups and apple pies. Comforting food, nostalgic food. It means a back to school feeling, an opportunity to write lists and make plans.

For sticky, gooey autumnal indulgence, I'm planning on hiding some Cartmel Sticky Toffee Puddings in the back of the freezer for those days when you need a sugar hit but baking is beyond you.

I love working from home. It means I can take a break to go and kick the leaves in the park, or make a home-made pasta sauce for dinner that needs long-simmering and stirring over the stove, rather than relying on ready meals and quick fixes.

That said, Daylesford Organic’s new lunch boxes, available for children or adults, almost make me want to go back to school, or work in an office. Almost.

And Autumn makes me feel like turning over a new leaf, being thrifty and creative in my kitchen. So what better than a box of fresh organic vegetables from Gregg's Veg, he of Masterchef fame, no less, full of herbs and the best of the season's produce. And, the best bit? They deliver straight to my front door, so I don't even have to get dressed in my quest for domestic diva-dom.

My LFW...

It seems that we’re all in need of some cheering up. (Especially if like me you went to see The Duchess last week and drowned your popcorn in tears!)

With the weekend’s sunshine so short lived and news that the financial markets are in such dire straits, a few pick me ups are definitely in order.

I for one, after a busy week backstage at the shows, could do with a few regenerating skin products. Early mornings and late nights have taken their toll on my skin so I’ve booked myself in for the Hangover Herbie at Bliss. (If mine is suffering then I dread to think about all the models whose skin has been used as a canvas for over a hundred make-up artists.)

Working at the shows each season is the absolute highlight of my job. I just thrive on being a busy bee backstage. I can’t wait to one day be buzzing around in New York, Milan and Paris... all in good time!

This season my highlight was the Luella show; a real pick me up from the down in the dumps mood of the country at present.

Her designs celebrated English eccentricity with the addition of neon orange, fluorescent pinks and lavenders, and lots of patterns, frills and bows to go around.

Sounds bizarre I know but it was a truly genius fusion of harmonious chaos (if there is such a thing).

Perhaps already longing for S/S 09 is jumping the gun a little... the Luella A/W collection is also super exciting, and full of pieces I have on my birthday wish list. (The Paisley bunny T-shirt being one!)

Diary of a MOTB (part 3)

Well, I’m getting through the old Oyster Bay! Always a firm follower of the 7 o’ clock rule, a friend from South Africa sensibly pointed out the other day that it’s always 7 o’clock somewhere in the world...

Wedding wise I’ve come to the conclusion that whilst recommendations are always a good starting point, no matter what anyone else tells you (and no matter how good a company was for them), only YOU can decide who to work with.

The cheque writer and I made the decision that we would only meet three caterers and three marquee companies. We know exactly what we want and all we need from them is the assurance that they can provide it (as well as a bit of support me if all around me seems to be falling apart).

Two people have ruled themselves out immediately by naming us ‘wedding number 9,001’! Jolly good for them but for us, it’s a special event and we need to feel so.

Only one caterer, KalmKitchen has actually supplied us with a quote that we could understand on one sheet of paper with a quick resume and a price, again all on one sheet of paper. Heavens catering is costly!

I spent a very pleasant couple of hours browsing Brides magazine over the weekend. It has some really useful supplements; the last one had a CD on floral and table decorations.

One of the experts was from Jo Malone who advised that a nice touch would be to spray the table linen and napkins with a JM fragrance.

My advice would be to ensure that the fresh flowers in the marquee or venue are not going to clash with the spray and to remember that some of your guests may be struggling with hay fever and a very heavy floral scent may just ruin the day for them. Less is more in the fragrance department, something to be considered when we decorate the church, but I’ll leave that until another day.

It has just gone 7 o’ clock somewhere so where is my glass...

Mango Mousse

Serves 6
Cooking Time – 15 approx minutes
(allow time for the mousse to set also)

Here’s anther very quick and easy but delicious pud.

Ingredients

2 mangoes

75g sifted icing sugar

Juice of two limes

2 tsps gelatine, soaked in two tbsp cold water

284ml whipped double cream

Cut the mangoes in half lengthways and scrape out the flesh. Place this into a blender or food processor along with the icing sugar and lime juice. Blend until smooth.

Warm the gelatine slightly until fully dissolved and mix this into the mango puree along with the whipped cream.

Pour into individual glass bowls or a medium sized souffle dish and refrigirate until set.

Best served with a few fresh berries alongside or on top.

Bad Coffee & Blouses...

Few things can sour my ordinarily sweet (no, really) disposition like a bad coffee. And in my neck of the woods, a decent shot of caffeine can be a hit and miss affair.

Life, I say, is too short for bad coffee. And until they figure out a way for me to buy a latte online (imagine it materialising on your laptop screen, à la Willy Wonka’s TV chocolate bar) and until my tinker of a baby gets to grips with the concept of sleeping through the night, my motto is “Need caffeine, will travel.”

Which is why I keep finding myself in Greenwich: the guy who runs London Coffee Roasters in a shop called Beehive makes the most sublime soy flat white - and as if that weren’t lure enough, there’s an expansive park for the children and a slew of vintage shops for me.

My latest purchase? A pair of high-waisted, wide-legged trews in grey wool for £25.

Buying an inexpensive, retro version of a have-to-have style is my cunning way of warming up to a trend that I’m not ready or willing to invest in yet: with my “broad of beam’ issues (hey, I’m not complaining: these hips have helped to make having babies relatively straightforward) I’m going to need some time to get used to this look or, more precisely, this look on me.

I mean, it took me long enough to relegate the hipster bootcuts to the back of the wardrobe and get my head around the skinny jeans thing.

To help me adjust to my new silhouette, I’ve bought a couple of delicious blouses: frothily feminine to take the masculine edge off the trousers, and riotously ruffled to detract attention from any, ahem, width issues the trousers might highlight.

It started with a Pleated Cascade blouse from Whistles but then, ooops, with my credit card already in my hand, I couldn’t resist snaffling Jaeger’s Silk Ruffle Blouse while I was at it.

Well I only said I wasn’t ready to invest in the high-waist look, right? No one said anything about anything else…

A Novelty Day Off...

Life’s a constant rush and it’s all go here. We’re moving offices, taking on new team members and I’m taking Monday off!

Know that I haven’t had a week off since March and you’ll see why even a day means serious forward planning, not to mention a novelty. Not to mention the fact that we’re off to a wedding in Northumbria and the weather could pose problems.

I packed up the summer wardrobe weeks ago but we got married in September and I know how much I hoped everyone would wear S/S... So S/S it is which means instant tan, new pedi etc are all in need.

The reorder of St Tropez has arrived (thank goodness) and there’s just enough time to get it on so I’m looking more bronzed than tangoed on Saturday. (The Rapide Face Cream does the job in just a car journey.)

My DVF silk shift might be a touch on the chilly side so I’ve ordered a super cool Twenty8Twelve (they’ve done some great tailoring for A/W) Crop Tux which thanks to speedy delivery arrives today.

Most recent drama was my perfect little pup (?!!) chewing the quill on my beautiful black disc head piece. Thanks to Maculloch & Wallis an unchewed replacement is too on its way.

All that remains is a quick hair appointment tomorrow afternoon.

Along with all this I also managed to fly in to the launch of Hush homewear’s new shop in Battersea last night.

The A/W collection does not disappoint and is bound to feature on many a Christmas wish list! The hand knitted bed socks and cardigowns are quite delicious.

Perhaps they’d be a little more appropriate than silk for the temperature in Northumbria...

Man & Van...

As organised as P&P likes to think she is, even the most organised person in the world can’t prevent moving house from being stressful.

As much as you list, label and try to look into that crystal ball and foresee the problems ahead, some things (as a bit of a control freak, it pains me to say it) are out of one’s control... (like the heavens opening whilst you lug your finest home furnishings out of the van and into the new home).

It’s amazing how much ‘stuff’ one accumulates over the years – the sporting career might have been a little short lived (!) but I still can’t quite face throwing out the old lacross stick, afterall little P&P might want to use it one day...

My knights in shining armour (GF aside of course!) were my team from Aussie Man and Van.

Not only did they save us a lot energy (thanks to fewer trips up and down 3 flights of stairs) and me a few broken nails but they also prevented World War Three from breaking out!

They shifted the numerous bags of clothes, pashminas and pearls (without suggesting half of them would be better at the charity shop!) and carried out beds, chests of drawers, wardrobes and pictures, all in the space of three hours without barely breaking into a sweat!

Their “van” is more like a small truck and had more than enough space for us. The whole process was well worth the cost – and very reasonably priced.

Just a shame we didn’t get them to do the unpacking too...

Bag It Now...

So I know I say a lot of things have the wow factor but this REALLY does...

Browsing Bunny Hug the other day for something - I can’t even remember what now - I was seriously sidetracked by this bag that literally (well almost literally) leapt off the page at me. I'm convinced it has been sent down from heaven!

Alice McCall’s Rip Her to Shreds Oversized Bag has got to be my bag of the season!

Available in my two favourite colours (blush/rose and black), I have a sneaky feeling that it was destined to find me.

A firm believer in investing in bags – it's officially the only thing in my wardrobe that I turn to every day and can make or break any outfit – I think if you see one that's perfect for you then you simply HAVE to bag it!!!

Now decisions... black or rose? black or rose?

Snake Bite Beauty...

I remember thinking when I was younger that putting cucumber slices on your eyes in the name of beauty was really rather strange. As I’ve got older (and working in the industry) I’ve heard of some pretty peculiar ingredients, rituals and procedures but I’m thinking the latest innovation from Planet Skincare has to be the strangest.

Snake Venom. Well actually it’s a synthesised snake venom that mimics the effects of a snake bite (a temple viper to be precise). Apparently it stuns the skin and has significant effects on the signs of ageing.

The anti-ageing moisturiser containing the ingredient in question appeared in the UK a few weeks ago, exclusively at Selfridges (and online). Since its Selfridges launch, it’s said to have become one of the bestselling skincare products in the store. (Apparently Gwyneth Paltrow is a big fan.)

Like most miracle creams it has many claims, including ‘visibly reducing lines and wrinkles in just 28 days’ and ‘52% wrinkle reduction’.

I’m always slightly dubious about such claims. That said, I’ve done some research on the ingredient and discovered it did actually win the 2006 Swiss Technology award (I’m not sure what this is but it sounds impressive).

At £60 it IS a cheaper alternative to Botox and might be worth a try though I’m not sure I like the thought of voluntarily imitating the effects of a snake bite! A step too far for me perhaps but no doubt it’ll become one of the most talked about anti-ageing options of 2008.

I Have Arrived...

At last, I have arrived. I have purchased an 'it' bag. Not one to be all that bothered about 'it' bags, to my surprise I found myself irresistibly drawn towards a large gold Anya Hindmarch.

It is gorgeous. I picked it up, paraded around the shop, put it down, picked it up, panicked about the price, put it back and left the shop.

Within twenty minutes I was back and handing it to the girl and telling her ‘I’ll take it’.

Next came huge panic. But too late I’d done it!

All I can say now is, all the guilt has gone and the bag gives me SO much pleasure. Anyone with the doubts I had - just do it - you won’t regret it.

To my German friend who has been asking for ages, when am I going to grow up and get a decent handbag... well, Kianga I’ve done it!

So I took myself and the sacred bag to the launch of the new Ralph Lauren Home collections the other evening. Always a lovely event, there’s something very reassuring about being in such luxurious surroundings after dark.

The champagne flowed as we walked through each different room set. Amongst the collections for fall is Bedford Manor which has a really traditional hunting lodge feel to it. It's possibly a little too fussy for me but as I said in my last post, this season there’s a definite return to comfortable traditional interiors with a modern day twist.

Next came the Hudson Valley collection which I have to say really isn’t for me; far, far too fussy, lots of frills and patchwork.

Finally came Rue Royal and this I did like; urban chic glamour, lots of gold (the new bag fitted in beautifully) and some very luxurious cashmere curtains. Now we’re talking...

Let It Rain...

I don't care what everyone says, I'm happy it's cold, raining and miserable.

The phrase "Indian Summer" is being chanted around London, but I'm ready to ditch the Summer wardrobe, which let's face it, only got a showing on holiday and for those three days during August when all anyone did was complain it was too hot.

If there's one thing we British girls do well, it's an Autumn Winter wardrobe. (And so we should, we get enough practice.)

So I say, get over it, the sun is NOT coming out to play. Make the most of the fabulous looks on offer for the season.

Leather, perfect for keeping us dry in the rain. Tartan, Scotland is famous for cold weather. Lace, everyone needs tights. And what better way to work the look into your office chic work wear than with the perfect pair of on trend tights.

If you want some sun, go on holiday.

Me, I'm working my Thomas Burberry Trench and praying that Autumn / Winter’s here to stay!

Diary of a MOTB (part 2)...

Well we have had the first meeting with the first caterer and the husband is in shock. Thinks if he has to do this for four daughters he will never be able to stop working. He can’t actually but that is more to do with keeping him out of the house and letting me get on with the job more than anything else!

(Suppliers beware – I do bring him in at the last moment to drain the last pound off any quote – even the butcher goes pale if I send him in for the meat!)

We were guests at a wedding on Saturday; normally I just go along and enjoy the occasion, however on Saturday I was on high alert and hyper critical, not that I would ever tell my friend, the MOTB of the day, as it was an amazing bash; the bride was glowing with happiness and the bridegroom looked as if he couldn’t believe his luck which is just as it should be.

I was bowled over by the marquee which was supplied by WigwamMarquees.co.uk – more of a traditional tent, looking a little like a big top from the outside but inside it had an intimate feel to it unlike some of the frame tents.

I have already asked for a site visit. We felt warm and dry which last Saturday was no mean feat and if it hadn’t been for the trip to the loo, one would never have known that all the power showers in the world had been turned on outside. I have also found WhiteCanvasTents.com (pictured) whose tents look spectacular.

When I need a break from MOTB duties, I enjoy nothing more than a glass of Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc to recharge my batteries which, I have just noticed is on offer at Majestic. I’ll have to stay online just long enough to order enough to see me through this – well maybe halfway...

The Perception of Perfection…

I’ve chosen to write my first blog a little tipsy on the plane back from Miami. A terrible flyer, once on board I make it my first priority to knock back a couple of glasses of Sauvignon Blanc.

Not the best medicine for dehydrated skin but after hours in the sun this week I don’t think now’s the time to start worrying about the damage?! As a make-up artist I know I should practice what I preach but unfortunately I’m as guilty as the next when it comes to loving the sun (and a drink or two).

So, my first blog... I’ve decided to blog about life as a make up artist which, as you can imagine is never dull. I’m slightly worried though that my application of pen to paper rather than brush to brow won’t hold quite the same flair, but here goes!

I was worrying about writing a perfect blog but after a week in Miami I’m more aware than ever how everyone’s perception of perfection is very different. No joke - mannequins in South Beach store windows have DD breasts and the women that shop in the stores in question look identical. You’d be forgiven for mistaking the shoppers for mannequins and vice versa!

Some of the women I saw seemed to have become so obsessed with perfection that their idea of beauty was, in my opinion, somewhat distorted. (My boyfriend may well disagree!)

We’re all victims of vanity from time to time but it seems sad to have it as your number one priority. For now, I’m sticking to my make-up tricks; a dab of Chantecaille Foundation, ByTerry Eclat de Teint and Diorshow Mascara are my tools to a flawless perfection.

So my post Miami message is ‘don’t be afraid to keep it simple’. Back on home soil, I can’t help thinking how much better everyone looks with less foundation, a lot less collagen (did you see Kate Spicer’s Super Botox Me documentary?!) and a more natural glow.

Ozzie Ozzie...

Australians are good at footwear. They got it right with the Uggs (I still wear mine. Is that uncool?)...

And now they’re proving they can do more than just laid back cool; they can do formal wear too.

Ozzie brand Mimco is coming to London and putting their best foot forward with boutiques opening imminently in Marylebone High Street, Covent Garden, Notting Hill and Chelsea.

If you simply can’t wait, then visit their online boutique to check out their latest collection.

Part of me would kill for a pair of the Achilles Heel black patent numbers (ok, they are slightly secretary meets dominatrix- but so what, they’re fun); part of me (the slightly more sensible part) loves their Rosie loafer (also in black patent of course).

One thing’s for sure... these are great shoes.

Broad Bean & Pea Couscous

Serves 6
Prep Time – 5 minutes
Cooking Time – approx 35 minutes

This aromatic dish is perfect served with warm or cold lamb.

Ingredients

300ml chicken stock

250g cous cous

150g frozen petit pois

200g frozen broad beans

6 spring onions

Good handful of chopped parlsey, chives and marjoram

Juice of 1 lemon

50ml good quality olive oil

1tsp clear honey

Boil the chicken stock and pour over the couscous.Leave to soak for about 10 minutes so utnil all the liquid is absorbed.

Cook the beans and peas separately in salted boiling water until just tender.

Chop the spring onions and add to the couscous along with the herbs. Add the peas and beans.

Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, honey and a pinch of salt to make a dressing and mix this into the cous cous.

Sprinkle with extra chopped parlsey to serve.

Net-Less In Northumberland...

No matter how many times I stay with my in-laws in Northumberland, I always manage to pack clothing that doesn’t see the light of day. I put it down to the fact that I’m Australian and eternally optimistic – you say beach, I say strappy dresses and tank tops - but every trip sees me bundled up in jeans and cardis being sandblasted on blustery beach walks and abortive picnics.

This time, I outdid myself in the inappropriate stakes, packing my darling new Marc by Marc Jacobs Bow Bag Clutch.

Well, with the grandparents on hand, I had visions of putting the babies to bed and slipping out for a romantic dinner à deux with my husband. No enormous nappy bag crammed with snacks and wipes, just my sleek little clutch containing lippy and perfume.

Sadly, though, the only airing it got all week (aside from the times I took it out to stroke it) was when my mother-in- law borrowed it for a funeral.

Between entertaining the children and taking a sulky interest in the Olympics (whilst my father in law gleefully updated me on Australia’s lacklustre medal tally), what else was there to do but take sneaky peeks on NetAPorter...

As my Northumberland luck would have it though, the wireless router broke mid-week leaving me both net-less and netaporter-less. Sure, this may have been a blessing for the bank balance (there is a LOT on my current wish list that may have accidentally found its way into my shopping bag) but I had a work deadline to meet: cue a drive to the next village, laptop perched on my lap, to poach someone else’s WiFi just long enough to hit send.

With hubby pulling driving duty and the babies asleep, I bought a magazine at the services to while away the long drive back to London and recognised our friend Alzbeta modelling this season’s tartan.

Although she manages to make it look good, I just can’t get excited about plaid; for a picnic rug, fine – but with ‘summer’ now officially over, it doesn’t look like I’ll be needing one of those any time soon!

Let The Naming Begin...

It’s quite a change when the kids go back to school. The last few weeks are often the hardest - by this time, the little darlings are usually very ready for term time to start again.

For us parents the end of holidays brings a mixed bag of emotions – quality family time juxtaposed with a longing to return to some form of normality / sanity (or even just an uninterrupted half an hour of peace and quiet with a cup of tea and a good book).

The key (I think) to the start of term is organisation - not always easy whilst running between cooking club and tennis coaching – and that inevitably means tackling a new pile of clothes and items to be name taped.

I find Labels4Kids.com an absolute god send for labels that actually stick.

They offer vinyl labels, stick on labels, bag tags, iron on labels (life’s too short to sew them on every sock!) and more that help to ensure all the new kit actually comes home at the end of the day as opposed to ending up in the lost property box!

Diary of a MOTB...

Well, it has finally happened, the first of the four daughters has got engaged and I’m in full flow as the mother of the bride, or MOTB as the daughters now call me, has to be.

First and foremost, the wedding apparently, can’t be like all the many others she has been to... But bar hideous themes, how different can a wedding get?!

I have looked at a million sites already and he only popped the question a couple of weeks ago (written in the sand on a beach - so romantic).

A colour scheme needs to be decided on early and and there are all sorts of factors that need to be taken into consideration: the bridesmaids’ dresses, the bouquet and whatever will be in bloom in the garden.

Almost everything bar the marquee can be bought online and even that can be sourced and rented via the web; so very different from when we got married and everything was a telephone call followed by numerous letters and calls and days spent traipsing the streets looking for all the little things that make the day special.

After the announcement went into the papers (Times & Telgraph of course) I’ve been amazed at how little information is needed before one gets bombarded by those promoting their wedding services.

On the presumption that there need to be a few guests, invitations are rather important and I’ve been very impressed by the package offered by one of these unsolicited approaches.

If you’re in a similar boat then do check out Downey.co.uk , very traditional with one rather modern alternative that even I, who couldn’t be more conservative in my tastes, really quite like.

Also check out MountStreetPrinters.com who are about to launch a wedding invitation site and WrenPress.com which has a pretty comprehensive selection from traditional to contemporary.

Watch this space...

The 80:20 Rule...

I’m sure everyone has heard of the 80:20 rule. If you haven’t, it’s the basic principle that 80% of the outcome is based on 20% of the causes. It’s mainly used in a business context, but I am totally convinced that it’s relevant for most things in life, including your wardrobe, your friends (hard to admit but probably true), and definitely your makeup.

Unless you are super strict with your makeup purchases and only replace stuff you have just finished using, you are probably with me on this. I know I am guilty of succumbing to the latest, must-have products on the market, and I always start using new items before using up the old.

However, it was only recently that I realised I was in need of a sort out! I have been away a lot lately, and therefore living out of a suitcase with just one, small make up bag. It was then it dawned on me that these are the only products I ever use to create my daily look, without ever touching the stacks of makeup I have in reserve! And so I decided on a plan of attack, in two phases.

Phase One: ‘Chuck out the chinz’, as the famous Ikea slogan goes. I threw out all glosses with a tiny bit left at the bottom, cracked eye shadows that fell out everywhere when I opened the case, and every old mascara that was still there, even though I have long since opened a new one.

Phase Two: ‘Learn to love the things you have forgotten about.’ I went through all my makeup and found some old favourites that I will definitely be bringing back to life. This included my Origins Pinch Your Cheeks’ blusher which is a great last-all-day cheek stain, and the most perfect shade for nails throughout the year, my Nails Inc varnish in South Molton Street .

So there’s the challenge – apply the 80:20 rule to your makeup and see what you can chuck out and what you can rediscover! Plus - and this is my favourite point - the more you throw away, the more room you have for new makeup!

Statement Style...

I love Wednesdays. Not because it's mid week and the weekend's in sight (though that's always nice) but because it's the day that Net a Porter's new stock hits the shelves and I can get my next fix.

I could claim it’s “purely work related” but that would be lying.

Whilst a lot of it might be well beyond my budget (though I always try and save a bit each season for a few key pieces), it always gives me the best inspiration.

This week my new find has to be Vera Wang’s Rhinestone Rope Necklace .

After the trend presentation we attended at Net a Porter yesterday - where it was sparkling in all its glory - I’m more in love with it than I was before.

This is statement jewellery at its best...

Spinning In Style...

Fitness has always been important to P&P (it’s important not to let oneself go) but with the wonderful(!) news that I’d passed my 3 months probation period at work, it was goodbye to park runs around Fulham (never alone of course) and hello to smart new gym membership (courtesy of work) near the office!

With up and coming holidays, a toned tum is a must so with every intention of daily (well almost daily) spinning classes and cardio workouts, I went along for my induction…and got a bit of a shock.

Not only was the average gym visitor fit and toned but they were all dressed to the nines in fabulous gym outfits that put my old t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms to shame.

So, after an extremely self-conscious workout, my new mission was to find a suitable workout wardrobe so that I too looked the part.

Back at work I hit the Sweaty Betty site and found myself everything I was after and more… their own range is spot on, Casall’s is simply too stylish for words and Stella McCartney for Adidas is irresistible.

I opted for the sweatyBetty Fitted Sensitive Capri Pants and a couple of Casall Ritzy Box Back Vests.

Who would ever have thought dressing for a spinning class could be so much fun...

The Good Old Cornish Weather...

A trip to Cornwall (at least in our neck of the woods) is a little like a trip into the dark ages...

A boiler so decrepit that it only does two baths at a time, mobile signal that’s patchy to say the least, wireless connection that’s virtually non existent (a stressful hour was spent with laptop balanced on knee in a pub whilst the golf club tried yet again to reboot their system) and, unlike in Beijing, no big budget set aside to move the ominous looking clouds (though I’m sure Olympic activity took a rain check last week so I’m not sure what went wrong there...).

That said, we all love our annual slice of Cornish life and truth be known, if the weather wasn’t so awful then we wouldn’t have nearly as much to talk about and wouldn’t be so ecstatically happy on the odd year that the sun does shine for more than five minutes.

But, after numerous wet walks, several attempts at unbelievably windy tennis and having given up on the three thousand piece puzzle that was missing goodness knows how much of it, we decided (hubby, the dog and I that is) to abandon the family and head back to London.

Feeling damp, blue and fed up that summer had been so pitiful, I needed some cheer.

With the weather still too warm for the new wool blazer and not feeling quite ready to start thinking about new knee highs yet, I went in search of a little something that would do me, for now.

A trip to my-wardrobe.com was fruitful. At £30, my Malene Birger Electric pink Feather Brooch has given me more pleasure than I’ve had in ages! (If only the same could be said for this summer!!!)

A Sensual Home...

Yesterday I dropped everything in favour of spending the day on my sun lounger to read Ilse Crawford's Sensual Home. The book makes really good sense and excellent reading. In our so called troubled times I think we’ll be reaching more and more for home comforts... A little bit of luxury goes a long way so spend less but spend it on items that’ll give you real pleasure.

1. Bed Linen and towels – for luxury go for white (throw them when they become 'grey white'!). You know it, but you just can’t beat The White Company; affordable AND stylish.

2. Aromatherapy - essential to our well-being. Lavender to calm, Bergamot to relieve depression and Ylang Ylang to restore confidence. Fragrance is good for the home too: Lavender, Rose and Geranium for the bedroom and notes of Amber, Pine and Juniper for the living room. Personal favourites are Jo Malone - her perfumes and candles are too divine. For the body, This Works does the most uplifting oils and remedies and I wouldn't be without ESPA in my bathroom.

3. Flowers - yes maybe a treat but no home should be without even a simple bunch picked from the garden. If you’re feeling more extravagant go for Wild at Heart - they do the prettiest of bouquets.

4. Sensual fabrics - don’t cut costs on using part man made fabrics. Use silks (some are very inexpensive but still have the desired luxurious effect) cottons, linens, fine wools and of course for the ultimate luxury, cashmere - just a single cushion will do. Do visit Designers Guild for some wonderfully uplifting colours and textures.

5. Good food - essential to our well-being. Take time to prepare a meal - not some horrid microwave dish! Yes I know a lot of us, myself included, are ' time short' but it's worth making the effort where you can. Take time to source your food as best you can. Find local organic growers or visit The Ethical Food Company for a wonderful selection. And it’s a little expensive say for everyday but the meat and fish that comes from Donald Russell is outstanding.

Finally, do get a copy of Sensual Home and be inspired!

Chicken Salad...

Let’s try to hang on to all thing summer whilst we still, technically, can...This is a lovely summery dish and one of the most delicious chicken salads I’ve ever tasted.

I’m not going to give exact quantities here as it’s one of those dishes that you need to adjust according to your tastes and occasion (ie whether it’s a main course of part of a buffet/picnic).

Ingredients

Chicken breasts (or leftover cooked chicken)

Fresh Dill

Raisins

Pecans

Garlic

Celery

Mayonnaise

Creme Fraiche

If using chicken breasts, poach them in water until just cooked through and then leave to cool. Chop the chicken into bite size chunks.

Clean and destring the celery sticks then chop into reasonably small pieces (I like to use quite a lot of celery in relation to the other ingredients).

Break the pecans in half. Put these ingredients into a large bowl along with the raisins and mix well.

Make the dressing by mixing the mayonnaise and creme fraiche (I prefer to use slightly more mayonnaise than creme fraiche), then add crushed garlic and lemon juice to taste. Finally, add a generous amount of chopped dill along with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Dress the chicken mixture, making it as creamy as you wish and finish off with a lovely sprinkling of freshly chopped dill.

Delicious served with cold pasta, rice or pitta bread.