Taking the long way round- An east coast adventure!

Taking the long way round- An east coast adventure! 

Mum and I decided a trip to IKEA was long overdue and we ran away on a rare day off together. I didn’t have anything in mind that I needed but we came home with a carful anyway. First stop was Kildare Shopping Village, I am not the best early morning shopper so I hid behind my sunglasses sniffing out more coffee. We did however loose ourselves in Cath Kidston and fell for the gorgeous prints and oil cloth. This led to my downfall in IKEA. 

Inspired by Cath I was only delighted to reach the fabric section and pick up some experimental equipment! It’s been about two years since I’ve seen a sewing machine but just wait- there are projects afoot. (Ha! Sewing? Foot? Get it?) 

I really am this lame all the time.

We were starved and a tad bewildered after queuing for so long but we drove to visit some friends in Wicklow. I had never been and the mountains were so beautiful. I’m definitely drawn to green wooded areas more than the sea. It was raining and it still didn’t matter!

Being so close to Greystones we said we’d visit The Happy Pear. I wanted to dive headfirst into the fruit and veg. I’d recommend the mangos. I’m all for healthy eating but it really doesn’t suit me. I had one taste of the chocolate tart and I was done. Great coffee but I was hankering for a Mars Bar as soon as we left! 

We are certainly west coast people so I hadn’t seen the east coast in years. We drove the scenic route back which took us through Wexford (I learned that Wexford has horses in every field and strawberries for sale every 5kms), New Ross and Dungarven. With views of the sea, ships and the gorgeous town of Youghal. I’m coming back to visit for a weekend. We were so glad to see signs for Kerry after hours of driving! We experienced every type of weather that day- roasting hot sun, rain that came down so hard we couldn’t see, thunder and lighting- it’s amazing what this island goes through in a day. 

Next time it’s Belfast and hopefully another trip to Galway, which was exactly a year ago already. Where does the time go? 

Still setting up my sewing machine,

ebony

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‘Spending’ an afternoon off is dangerous: Haul

 

 

What happens when I work a rare early shift and then have some spare hours in the afternoon? Bad things happen.

Working afternoons/evenings means my mornings are full with jobs I have to do and I don’t usually get out to damage my bank account as much as I’d like. This is a good thing but when the chance arises I do jump at it! It started in New Look and steadily got worse the closer I got to town.

NewLook has some of the cutest summer clothes at the minute and my local branch just launched homeware (as if I needed to know this). Knowing damn well the ‘buy now or regret it’ phrase is the absolute truth I picked up 2 plain white tshirts and this stripey top which has been mistaken for a shopping bag by more than one person. Defective shopping bag or not it shall be worn.

The sun is out today but it is no where near hot enough for this yet. A bargain at €9.99 I think I will keep an eye out for any more to team with cut offs and Birkinstocks.

I also picked up some copper tealight holders (which are now on offer) and an LED light up mint green arrow, which I needed. Badly. Then I got to Penneys and as you can imagine I was half way through when I decided I should’ve picked up a basket. I know I’m not alone when I just pick up the basics and your already fifty quid down- tanning mitts, hair ties, socks, candles and pjs. All necessary. I decided against picking up bikinis as the thought of wearing less than 8 layers of clothes was still to much to think about. But I’ve picked my faves out on the website and just hope they are still there when I go back.

 

From there we went to TKMaxx which is always a bad idea, the leggings I picked up were worth it though. I really like 90 Degree by Reflex gym wear and geometric print speaks to me. They are the comfiest, softest leggings ever! Having a Nike store outlet store in town also helps so the boyfriend and I got new Roshes. No you aren’t seeing things they are the same pair. We will have to work out some schedule so we don’t go out matching. We aren’t THAT couple. Not yet anyways.

Well that’s todays post, it is quite lazy actually, I promise I will more effort into the next one. I’m off to sit outside in the sun while it is there. I hope everyone has a lovely Wednesday.

ebony

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My Enormous Secret Hoard Of Elle Magazines

 When I decided to write this, I didn’t realise what a ridiculous task I was about to undertake. Having moved house (10 times in past 6 years!) my collection has been spread out all over the place. Therefore taking photos of the only magazines I had to hand and not the entire collection in all it’s glory.

They’re mostly stored in my boyfriends garage. I do believe helping prop up the shell of a vintage BMW 2002.  I’m unable to find solace in this but cannot argue as storage is extremely limited.

I thrive on my monthly fix and it won’t stop anytime soon. I leave them lying around so that the ‘WE’RE GETTING A BIGGER HOUSE!’ phrase becomes a reality rather than just a chat.

I am aware that if I stopped buying them and instead saved that money I would own the Miu Miu ballet pumps instead of reading about them. My collection started to grow from the age of 15 and I have learned so much from the people who contribute to every issue. Throughout my teenage years and into early adulthood I have read about life, friendships, cooking, sex, exercise, feminism, music, books and art but most of all I developed a love of writing. I would not think of myself as a writer but I love doing so.

Having an inspiring group of women showcase their abilities, talents and style each month is what I love about Elle. Hats off to Donna Wallace, Anne-Marie Curtis and the ultimate boss; Lorraine Candy for showing me how to accessorize, take charge and inspire me to start running! They have helped shape not only my wardrobe but my opinions. Feminism has been a main focus of the magazines recently, not only has this raised my own awareness of it but has made me more vocal about it. If you haven’t seen coverstar Emma Watson give her HeForShe speech then watch it here. It could change your opinion too.

Equality is all we’re asking for guys, after all not only are we ‘smart enough to make millions and bear children but then we also get back to business’. Which leads me to talk about this months cover star; a mother,  business woman and superstar. Everyone knows her whether it be the Destiny’s Child or Sasha Fierce version. Beyoncé can do NO wrong in eyes – enviable thighs/hair/energy, unlimited songs to suit every life situation and now a clothing line with Topshop.

Although branded as ‘gym-wear’ Ivy Park would be wasted on actual exercise. Worn only for lounging around acting like you exercise. Suitable only for when you want those instag’s double tapped and I need it all. What isn’t to love about that woman?

Speaking of women, some of my idols have graced the cover of Elle. Gwen Stefani, Courtney Love, Sarah Jessica Parker, The Olsen twins – picking one cover was tough but Mary Kate won. Victoria Beckham, her husband David who was the first and only man on the cover. Katie Price, Kate Hudson, Kylie Minogue, Keira Knightley, Lily Allen, Scarlett Johansen, Anne Hathaway, the list goes on and on and on.

My collection began around the time that Lorraine Candy took over as Editor In Chief. For ten years Lorraine has steered the ship and brought an outstanding collection to the table each month. Challenging a variety of topics and ever-changing styles, while also holding down the fort to a husband and 4 young children of her own. A powerhouse in her own right and inspiration to me.

My dream night out would be attending the Elle Style Awards; a night of beautiful designer gowns, enviable friendships developed over bottles of champagne and photographs that would adorn my walls forever. Forget weddings and loved ones, I met Giles Deacon!

For now I will have to keep my library in the garage, in a sad disused wardrobe but soon I shall take the trip to Ikea and buy multiple units and have glass doors and lighting fitted. Excessive maybe but I have spent this long hoarding why not show off my addiction to the world?

ebony

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Lusts This Month: April

April is always a great month for me, it means it is getting closer to summer! And summer means warmth, tanning, legs out, pedicures and sandals. Nothing make me happier than waking up and putting on shorts and flip flops. So my lusts this month are skirts and sandals!

While we were away in London my sister bought a beautiful boho style, cotton skirt for €39.99 in H&M- a gorgeous shade of orange/camel and just the right length for summer. I would team this with a black or white t-shirt or go all out with an Aztec design picking up on the rich colour of the skirt. I found these off the shoulder tops on the H&M website which I thought would go well with it. My favourite is the embroidered bustier, only €19.99, all tops seen here are under €20. There is a reason why I LOVE H&M.

More skirts caught my eye on Pinterest while I was updating my Fashion board. I have been running a lot lately and feel I can start wearing skirts again. I just hope we get the weather otherwise the tan will be out of a bottle! Also on my board you may notice its all things Olsen right now. Reminding myself of how goals Mary-Kate and Ashley are.

I am slightly obsessed now, especially since I bought the perfect shoes to go under summer skirts- short, midi or long. Snaps for Primark again- Birkenstock style sandals for €6, although I know first hand the comfort of the real deal so I will have get a proper pair! Here are some beauts found while pinning. Can you guess the theme? Clue: Russell Crowe.

In some other favourites I have been loving my book, The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. A tale of a circus that has layers upon layers of magic and charm! Everyone should read it, it is beautifully written. Although I may still be getting through it next month. I have become such a slow reader. This is something I really would like to change this year.

I’m still using my Sleek BareKissed Illuminator in Casablanca. So light, pigmented and blendable. I originally started using these products when I received one in my Cloggers Afternoon Tea goodie bag. I have since bought more and added Sleek products into my everyday routine. At the minute I am sick and cant bring myself to take photos so I will attach a website image instead. I prefer using these for everyday make up and find them long lasting and kind to the skin! I also received my first Blogger Beauty Box this month. This is the brain child of the gorgeous Vix Meldrew and I shall have a post up very soon about the outstanding products in the parcel.

Other random things I will be enjoying this month-

• TIDAL Subscription. Life of Pablo on repeat. Pleezy and thank Yeezy.
• Leftover Easter eggs.
• Feeling better. This virus is kicking my ass.
• The fleeting moments of actual sunshine!

Hope everyone enjoyed their weekend!

ebony

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The Home Board and Paint Charts.

If anyone follows my Pinterest boards, you will know my love for interiors. Anything white, grey and black is pinned, coveted and dreamed about. When I found some new images I decided I would put up a post with some of the looks and items I’m loving right now. Kitchen layouts- I love the idea of having the sink or oven in the island counter. Having plenty of room and a designated baking area! Along with being a total push over for a glossy finish cabinet, I also adore red brick and industrial features and in the dream kitchen I will have to incorporate them.

Ikea kitchen

From my Pinterest Board

 

You would also notice that the walls in nearly every picture are grey- my home will literally be 50 shades. Farrow and Ball are my favourite and have the beautiful Easy Greys range, classic and neutral greys that shall adorn the walls of my doll house. Follow them on Instagram for inspiration.

Purbeck Stone no.275, Ammonite no.274, Wevet no.273, Cornforth White no.228

Items I am lusting over this month are from Oliver Bonas, it took everything in my power not to buy the store when we were in England last month. Thankfully my luggage restrictions helped and I’m not sure how customs feel about copper phones!

Peach Woven Stripe Cushion £32, Grey Block Striped Cushion £32, Metallic Copper Phone £65- all available at oliverbonas.com

I love Ikea, I am aware this can touch a nerve with some people. I am perfectly happy assembling flat pack furniture, I could do it for a living! My Mum has a set of drawers in her bedroom that are perfect and are so deep that they become a display area for photos, hat boxes and such. They are a bargain price too!

Hemnes 8 Drawer in Blue, Black/Brown or White €205.00

Further fuelling my love of dark wood- I think it’s in the name- the Pax wardrobe is a classic, simple style that would work in any setting. Quite masculine but very elegant.

Pax wardrobe €555.00

The range of bedding available is astonishing, although you have to literally write down your measurements before you go as it can get confusing! I adore their striped duvet covers and even have a soft spot for their louder prints. My picks are again white, grey and black- am I too predictable?

One of my favourite sites is Ikea Hackers, a site dedicated to the amazing things you can create with simple Ikea furniture. Anyone who is looking for hacks to upstyle or change up their purchases- it is really easy! Check it out, you won’t be disappointed. Although you may catch the bug and before you know it the whole house is getting ripped apart.. sorry!

I’m off to pour over Pinterest for another few hours, I hope I’m not the only one who does this!

ebony

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Winter Wonderland

 

In the small town of Kenmare lies a little shop called The White Room. A shop filled with so many trinkets and sparkly things you would think you have stepped into Aladdins cave! Now I am slightly biased here, as anything to do with interiors I already love, but there is something special about this place. A family business for

Mum and I visited about 2 weeks ago on a rare day off together, decided to brave the elements and I’m so glad we did. Not only did we pick up some Christmas decorations we ended up buying a tree too! With too much choice we spent a good hour looking around and finally decided on what we needed not necessarily what we wanted…

After all the shopping we were starved and headed to the recommended cafe called Mick and Jimmys, we both ordered the mushroom soup and had (honestly) the most amazing rhubarb crumble for dessert. If you need somewhere to eat in Kenmare go and see these guys.

I’m off to decorate my house now, desperately trying to recreate the magic of The White Room but I’ll get no where near it! ha!

ebony

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