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Gnome Sweet Gnome

Posted Yesterday by Fiona

Gnomes

If Gnome’s are allowed into The Chelsea Flower Show then they must be having a fashion moment, albeit a horticultural one.  With the Royal Horticultural Society lifting their 100 year ban on Gnome attendance these cheery little chaps in lederhosen and pointy red hats are enjoying the limelight at last.

Only today whilst visiting a local garden centre I discovered a ‘Gnome Trail’, looking for Gnevil, Gniklas, Gnoah and so on. So, the seed has been planted and I suspect there will be garden gnomes popping up in all sorts of different guises in the upcoming weeks. 

If you are looking for a novel half term day trip, may I suggest The Gnome Reserve in Devon for a spot of Gnome fun - they even supply you with hats and fishing rods so you don’t feel left out.

Fiona

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Crazy about canvas

Posted 16th May 2013 by Fiona

Canvas TBS

The weather may not be able to make up its mind but when it comes to finding the perfect pair shoes to feel summery in, we certainly can.  As we sail through spring and into summer, nautical trends are always a favourite and the classic canvas shoe has become an iconic staple for your summer wardrobe. 

There is something about a canvas shoe that makes you look and feel casual, carefree and full of fun. The good thing about canvas is that it comes in plenty of cheerful colours so you can match them or clash them with anything. 

And as for styling they are obviously at their best when looking relaxed and casual. Perfect for Jeans (skinny, boot or boy fit all work) and chinos with a little roll look great. They also give dresses and skirts a young and flirty feel, feminine with a touch of tomboy thrown in – ageless and timeless.

So what’s not to love? You can feel like you are on board, at the beach or strolling along the prom even if its miles away.

Fiona

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Clever clogs

Posted 9th May 2013 by Fiona

Clever Clogs

The Isles of Scilly have recently played host to The World Pilot Gig Championships, an event over flowing with history, excitement and nautical trends. With 130 gig boats on the start line the boats race from St. Agnes to St. Marys in a battle of strength and oars to set the place for a weekend of racing.  

However, it was the Dutch crew, or should I said their footwear, that caught my attention. Neon bright and patriotically orange traditional clogs, worn by the entire crew – all of whom seemed to be very giant like… so the clogs were huge! This was a nautical trend I had not seen coming, although they did look pretty comfortable so perhaps there is something in it. 

The Islands are certainly a great place to stay and visit and I think they should be otherwise know as The Isles of smiles for being such friendly hosts.

Fiona

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A busy sewing bee

Posted 2nd May 2013 by Fiona

sewing

From a distance I am a great fan of the craft revival, I have to look on from a far as I never really seem to have time to start or finish a project. So to be invited on an uninterrupted weekend dedicated to all things creative with some like-minded souls, sounded like bliss - and it was.

This meant a trip to my local treasure trove of a haberdashery, it’s like stepping into the seventies (in a good way) and I immediately want to buy buttons, ribbons and fabrics that I don’t have any particular use for… yet. I came out armed with several workable ideas, a paper bag full of spotted fabric and a few loose instructions, I was ready for some sewing action. I am part of that generation where some of these skills got lost along the way and it is the sense of nostalgia that comes with making something for your home that is so appealing. 

Unperturbed, me and my pretty sewing box headed to a house in the Cotswolds to get crafty, chat about crochet techniques and enjoy a cream tea all with the relaxing sound of tapping needles and the hum of the sewing machine in the background.

I managed to fix a pair of shorts, think about a window seat and design and tack some squares for a mini bedspread. Although I’m not sure I achieved a lot in real terms it was fabulous to be able to focus on one thing.

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What does your handbag say about you

Posted 25th April 2013 by Fiona

Handbags

Handbags are not just for carrying the kitchen sink in, oh no. Your handbag can say a lot about you and can be used as a serious accessory.  Lady Margaret Thatcher’s handbag (a classic black boxy number) meant business , she was always seen with it, the mystery of course was what was in it.

Although in the case of handbags it’s not really about what’s on the outside, it’s all about looks. And this is why we need more than one – to suit the occasion.

Forbes and Lewis

The Satchel – Fashionable in a laid back way, sunny school days with room for an apple and a pencil.

Healthy Back Bag

The Healthy casual option – Comfortable and a bit more sporty, great for being out and about.

Pia Rossini

The basket bag – Beachy and breezy, perfect for that holiday vibe, sandals and sundresses.

Orla Kiely

The pattern bag – Show your creative side and pick a pattern to stand out and say hello!

Pell-Mell

The Organiser – Stylish with, space, storage and soft leather, ideal for a busy day. 

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