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Lorien Loves Yves Saint Laurent

Getting casual with Sandro

I am not shy in admitting that casual dressing is not a forte of mine. It does not come naturally, and is something I have to work at. I am much more formal in my dress, however lately I have made quite the effort, and my casual wardrobe is coming on leaps, and bounds. When I do casual I tend to go more for casual luxe as opposed to a more “urban” style.

Today I went shopping on the King’s Road so I decided to try, and dress a little more casual than usual. I am quite pleased with the result! My friend actually said to me, “You look so West London”, regarding what I was wearing today – I have yet to decide if that is a good, or bad thing…

I wore my new Sandro top with Nudie jeans, my Car Shoe tasselled driving shoes, and accessorised with my Tom Ford sunglasses as we actually had a dry sunny day for a change (England I’ve not forgiven you for the lack of a summer just because today was nice by the way).

Tom Ford sunglasses, Sandro top, Nudie jeans and Car Shoe driving shoes

Excuse the photographs I am tired from the weekend, and trying to pose so that you can see the elbow patch detailing of the Sandro top was not quite as easy as I anticipated (oh, and the fact I cannot take a decent photograph of myself period).

Getting casual with Sandro

At first I did not know entirely how I felt about this Sandro top. When I tried it on in Harvey Nichols Knightsbridge although liking it I was not completely sold (it did not help the fitting room lighting was horrendous!) however on it’s first outing a love affair began. It is a perfect slouchy casual top for down days, and times when you just want a spot of casual luxury. This soft cotton top is slightly sheer but not in a way that is indecent. I actually rather like that it is so light as I get hot ever so easily, and it gives you that comfortable feeling that you are not wearing anything at all whilst preserving your modesty (would be great for layering!). The contrast stitching on the top instantly adds to it, and gives it an expensive casual look. The top also has elbow pads which are brushed goatskin. Sandro is a Parisian brand that is great for chic basics, and understated staples. I can see this top becoming one of my favourite casual go to pieces, I will definitely be paying more attention to Sandro in future.

What I wore to Lovebox

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So festival season is in full swing, and I went to Lovebox on Sunday. I finally had an excuse to wear my Givenchy Rottweiler tshirt, here is what I wore it with (apologies to anyone on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook who may have seen the picture already):

Sunglasses: Mykita
Tshirt: Givenchy
Shorts: Burberry Brit
Wellies: Hunter

For me festival wear is about two things; practicality, and fun. Statement tshirts, and sunglasses are spot on. Kneevage is the new cleavage, or so I have decided (saying that I saw a lot of horrendous sights in far too short short shorts; which is really not a thing)! I actually bought the hood that attaches to my Barbour waxed jacket in case it rained – however I did not even need it in the end.

It was a very good thing that the sun was out so I could wear my Mykita sunglasses – I had a rather late night before Lovebox (it’s funny how another bottle of champagne at nearly 2.30 am seems perfectly reasonable at the time). I was originally going to wear my Tom Ford sunglasses however I decided that my Mykita are much more fun to wear for the occasion.

The Burberry Brit shorts are one of the pairs I bought for when I went to Spain earlier this year. I opted for my Hunter wellies in case it was muddy – fortunately that was not the case; however I would rather be safe than ruin a pair of beloved shoes.

What do you wear to festivals? Are you going to any this year?

Oscar Magnuson

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Tord Oscar Frederik Magnuson known more often simply as Oscar Magnuson is a member of the Swedish Royal family – he is the son of Princess Christina, and an entrepreneur in his own right. Respected among many circles Oscar Magnuson has made a name for himself at the cutting edge of Scandinavian design – he has even worked for the likes of Dolce & Gabbana.

Oscar Magnuson has really made his mark in the world of eyewear from his ophthalmic frames full of character to his sophisticated luxe finished sunglasses. Oscar has a unique take on glasses giving them a name reflecting the inspiration behind his glasses. For example one of his spectacles Peggy is named after the notorious heiress, art collector, and socialite Peggy Guggenheim who was the inspiration behind that particular pair. His collection of eyewear is hand made in Sweden, and he takes glasses back to basics focusing on a level of high quality that results in a sophisticated frame with style.

Oscar Magnuson box inside

Oscar Magnuson frames

I am short sighted, and needed some new glasses. I bought some Oscar Magnuson glasses on the weekend, I went for the pair called Damien (8671 140).

Side of my Oscar Magnuson glasses

Oscar Magnuson frame inside arm

Me, Lorien Adey, in my Oscar Magnuson glasses

I got my Oscar Magnuson’s from Piccadilly Opticians Birmingham – which is the best opticians in Birmingham if you are looking for designer eyewear, and perhaps this entire part of the country! The service is unbeatable (thank you!) it really has that personal touch that puts chains such as Specsavers to shame. The excellent array of frames, and styles stocked, and the unique collection sourced by Piccadilly is impressive. The staff regularly attend events all over the world to ensure they buy the best of what’s on the market each season. I highly recommend them if you are looking for an opticians that provides that little bit extra that makes a whole lot of difference.

I must admit I was originally going to get a pair of Tom Ford glasses, I am a massive Tom Ford fan, and madly in love with my Tom Ford sunglasses – however when I did not find a pair quite right for me (I certainly tried on enough pairs) Oscar Magnuson was suggested to me by one of the staff members, and I was instantly converted – Magnuson’s collections are simply superb. Oscar Magnuson is quickly becoming a cult brand for discerning men, and woman world wide.

Do you wear glasses? What’s your favourite brand?

Piccadilly Opticians
Piccadilly Arcade,
105 New Street,
Birmingham
B2 4HD

http://www.piccadillyopticians.co.uk/

My Fragrance Edit

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It never fails to astound me how a certain smell can evoke a memory with such clarity, or how a particular fragrance can make you think instantly of a particular person. Smell is a powerful human scent, and the right fragrance can make the right impression.

I personally tend to go for more classic fragrances rather than any of that urban malarky that comes in ridiculously chavvy gold bottles (yes Paco Robanne I am looking at YOU!). Your fragrance should be your signature. I am not saying you cannot have flirtations with other scents (trust me I do), but there should be one scent you always go back to. I have one, or two main fragrances, a night/going out fragrance, a summer fragrance, a fragrance for “formal” occasions, and a few for whenever I fancy a momentarily change.

I decided to share with you some of my favourite scents along with a “little” description describing them, excuse me if they are a little well err reductive I am not all that au fait with describing fragrances but I have given it my best shot!

one: it’s all about long hot summers on the Italian Riviera with Tom Ford’s Neroli Portofino
(£180 for 100 ml)

two: a modern take on the spicy timeless scent with Jo Malone’s Vetyver
(£72 for 100 ml)

three: cool mountain trek beyond fresh, fresh ness with Creed’s Himalaya
(£165 for 120 ml)

four: a man’s take on English floral heritage with Penhaligon’s Blenheim Palace
(£80 for 100 ml)

five: rich woody smells, and asian jungle adventures with Diptyque’s Tam Dao
(£68 for 100 ml)

six: a contemporary spritz of masculinity with a woody understated elegance with Cartier’s Declaration
(£60 for 100 ml)

seven: pristine Sicilian sophistication with Aqua Di Parma’s Colonia
(£72 for 100 ml)

eight: a manly marriage of black pepper, and lavender with L’Occitane’s Eau de L’Occitan Pour Homme
(£36 for 100 ml)

nine: a fresh, and sensual polaroid of the modern man with Chanel’s Allure Homme Sport
(£60 for 100 ml)

ten: a distinctive, provocative mix of mandarin, patchouli, and vanilla with Tom Ford’s Black Orchid
(£85 for 100 ml)

What fragrance do you wear?

Space NK Christmas

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With Christmas fast approaching I have put together a few gift ideas for that special him, or her in your life from one of my favourite places to shop for cosmetics; Space NK. From must have candles (it’s all about Diptyque) to essential moisturisers for men there is something for everyone:

Gifts for her -

one: Diptyque’s Violette scented candle – £38
two: NARS’ limited edition mini shadow pencil set – £39
three: EVE LOM’s rescue mask – £50
four: Laura Mercier’s lip silk – £18.50
five: Tom Ford’s Black Orchid eau de parfum (50ml) – £60
six: Aromatherapy Associates’ Little Star bath & shower oil – £10

Gifts for him -

one: Acqua Di Parma’s Colonia Essenza eau de cologne (100ml) – £48
two: Life NK’s Japanese wash cloths – £18
three: Anthony Logistic’s Algae facial cleanser – £36
four: Tom Ford’s Grey Vetiver aftershave balm – £30
five: Kiehl’s Facial Fuel with SPF – £33
six: Diptyque’s Philosykos body cream – £32

p.s. do not forget to sign up for Space NK‘s N.dulge loyalty card system. For every £100 you spend in-store, or online you get £5 to spend at Space NK – does not seem much; but you would be surprised how much you spend a year (or well I do ha!).

Amsterdam

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So today I actually flew to Amsterdam for the day just because I wanted to see what it is like. The only other time I have been in Amsterdam was when I spent two hours in the airport en route home from America waiting for a connection flight a couple of years ago – so yes as lovely as the airport was it was great to actually see some of the city! It is a scenic cultural city full of character with something to offer for everyone. Here is a little selection of some of the photographs I took today:

Canal House Boats

Wooden tulips

Hot chocolate

Train Station

Vespa

One of my few complaints about the city is that there is a preposterous amount of fake Burberry large check scarves about – both in stores, and around the necks of the denizens. I wish I got the memo before hand, seeing as it was rather cold I was wrapped up warm in my Burberry check cashmere scarf. For the record fake Burberry; well let me expand that to fake designer goods in general offend me (you are really not fooling anyone). Okay rant over…

Naturally I picked myself up a little treat from duty free. I already restocked up on my current fragrance (Tom Ford Black Orchid) the other week, so I just got myself some L’Occitane ultra rich lip balm to try as keeping my lips hydrated in winter can be a bit of a challenge – I will let you know how I get on with it.

Oh, and I FINALLY got to use my Paul Smith travel folio (it compliments my Paul Smith bags) for my passport, boarding cards, and such. I purchased it a couple of months ago from Harvey Nichols Birmingham, and I have not had chance to use it until now:

So have any of you ever been to Amsterdam? What did you think? Let me know .

I am off to bed, I had to get up at 4 am this morning to get to the airport. I suppose it did not help I had two hours sleep either… .

My first London Fashion Week

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London Fashion Week 2011, Somerset House

I was fortunate enough to attend some of London Fashion Week’s Menswear day much to my delight. I have never previously attended any London Fashion Week (it is the first of many I hope) so it was quite an escapade for me, and experiencing the ever unsettling lead up – I am not going to act nonchalant, and cool, I fully admit I was nervous (yes I am human, and believe it, or not I do have emotions contrary to the belief of some it seems). I even cased Somerset House the evening before if I’m honest to help with my nerves. The day I lose emotion is the day I die – I’d rather be raw, and emotive than be effortlessly cool, and entirely false.

I followed the usual protocol of preparing for such an event; had my hair cut, and planned an outfit. Had a little bit of a shoe crisis, fortunately Father treated me to a new pair (isn’t it nice when I don’t have to treat myself for a change ). Typically patent, and black because I have a weakness for patent black shoes, particularly lace ups. Low, and behold the beautiful black patent Kenneth Cole I chose (they are Kenneth Cole’s Mr Right Derby):

Kenneth Cole Mr Right Derby patent shoes

Stupidly did not have chance to wear them in, consequently my feet now have plasters on the backs of them – but as they say no pain no gain. I however do NOT recommend London Fashion Week as an occasion to wear new shoes in, rookie mistake right there.

I planned a sensible relaxed evening in London the night before, as I had an early start, and wanted to look my best. I thought going out to dinner with a friend would be respectable, and end in an early night. Of course not! Dinner turned into a long debauched affair at the Skylon restaurant – it was delicious though (particularly the foie gras). Dinner was washed down with prosecco, we then skipped dessert in favour of a more liquid option in the form of dessert wine testing which spontaneously lead to limoncello, grappa, and last but not least one my favourites; a Vesper martini. It was however a superlative meal over looking South Bank, however my shenanigans meant that sleep did not occur till gone half three in the morning…

So ridiculously early I had to get up, and face the world having had very little sleep (my fault I know). After dressing, and drowning myself in Tom Ford I was ready to face the world. Well at least until I got to Waterloo, and then suddenly the nerves kicked in. When I get nervous I feel nauseous easily, so breakfast was off the cards; consequently I opted for a Starbucks latte with an extra shot (it was needed!). As I walked across the bridge towards Somerset House I noticed the surge of people suddenly becoming more, and more interesting – I had found my fashion people; the beautiful people. All little bees making an A-line for Somerset House, so I joined their ranks, and followed them.

The people watching, street style, and general sights at Fashion Week are a treat for the eyes. It is an electric atmosphere, a hub of creative, and stylish minds. I love watching, and observing what people are wearing – the trends you notice, and some of the bizarre sights you see (in my case a woman walking around with her breasts nonchalantly out: fully out).

I have wanted a fur scarf for quite a while now, I saw this guy wearing fur, and it has only further enticed me to get one – be it real, or a decent faux I want to add a luxe touch to my Winter wardrobe. I also really loved that Hardy Amies coat I posted on here before with the detachable fur collar.

Man at London Fashion Week 2011 with fur scarf

One of my favourite parts of the day was meeting people; new, and old. Particularly meeting some of my fellow bloggers, and Twitter friends/acquaintances. Just to name a few: I got to see the very endearing Briony of http://agirlastyle.com/ – she is absolutely adorable however she did let me down by not wearing her Mulberry boots! I met Nick Bains of http://www.bainser.com/ who is just as charming in person. I was also delighted to run into Michael of http://anastasia-duck.blogspot.com/ in the Aquascutum presentation room, managed to get a shot of him too:

Michael of http://anastasia-duck.blogspot.com/

I saw three shows; Christopher Shannon, James Long, and KTZ. I also attended the Aquascutum presentation, and visited various exhibits. I will go into more depth in another post, however right now it is getting late, and work beckons in the morning! So I leave you with a photo I took at James Long, which was by far my favourite out of the shoes I saw:

Polo Ralph Lauren Fair Isle

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Fair isle has been quite a ‘thing’ for a while now, and predictably is back for Autumn, and Winter. It seems to crop back in every year, although this year it is particularly noticeable – fair isle is back with resurgence. I have not always been the biggest advocate of fair isle, however it has grown on me I must admit.

Naturally when I saw this particularly fair isle jumper in Harvey Nichols Birmingham there was some kind of attraction.

It looked busy, and despite the initial attraction I was apprehensive about it. I decided to try it on. To my surprise it actually look good on although, with the deep v-neck to it I felt it had a bit too much man-cleavage for my liking. Fortunately I had a member of staff at my disposal, who promptly bought me a white shirt in my size to try it on with. After seeing it on with a white shirt I had to have it. So I merrily skipped to the till, handed over my debit card, and eagerly took my new purchase home.

I can appreciate that it is not everyone’s cup of tea, however with a jumper like this it is more about YOU the wearer, and I, for one know I can pull it off . With items like this I always suggest trying them on before dismissing them completely, you would be amazed how something that looks wild, or a bit much on the hanger can look amazing on.

Shown here with my Tom Ford Alphonse sunglasses, a Reiss Benedict shirt, and predictably Nudie slim jim jeans (I have quite a few pairs, I love them also!)

I love the navy colouring, a lot of fair isle jumpers can look like Christmas thrown up everywhere with the colouring – however this is a lot more wearable, and dynamic.

…and just in case you didn’t appreciate my Tom Ford sunglasses enough here they are again (if you haven’t guessed I adore them):

So what do you think? Any of you given in, and joined the fair isle bandwagon?

In my bag

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Maybe it is just plain curiosity, but I love it when I see other blogs with ‘What’s in my bag posts’. Yes they are hardly original, but it’s a very personal thing, and I personally find it rather interesting. So I am going to show you what’s in my bag for work this morning. I am using my Reiss leather tan tote bag today:

I am a notebook fiend, I simply love them. Especially my Moleskines (they are not called the legendary notebook for anything!). Great for sketching, and scribbling in, or simply just taking notes. I bought the ‘Lovers I had and Liked’ notebook (it’s by Archie Grand) from Harvey Nichols, it just really tickled me – you can get them with a variety of different titles equally amusing. I also have the miniature version of my Filofax for convenience, and checking dates more than anything – I must admit I seldomly use it, I should change that really.

Moleskines, Archie Grand notebooks, and Filofax

Of course then I have my gadgets; my iPhone, Kindle, BlackBerry, and camera. Would not go anywhere without my phones, the Kindle is great for a spot of reading on the go, and you never know when a photo opportunity may crop up – so I tend to have my DSLR on me a lot.

Then I have a spot of Mulberry, you didn’t think I could have a post like this without any Mulberry now did you?! I have my iPad (another gadget) in it’s Mulberrry iPad case, and of course I have my Mulberry wallet. The iPad is so handy, one of my favourite gadgets.

Just like I couldn’t have this post without a spot of Mulberry, I could not have it without a spot of Tom Ford either… I have my Tom Ford sunglasses (which look like they need a clean eek!) in my bag with their case, and Tom Ford’s Black Orchid fragrance in 30ml – which is a great portable size! I love my Tom Ford sunglasses, and you never know when the sun may pop out so it’s always handy to just throw them in. As for the fragrance it is delicious, a handy size to have on you, and you never know when you might want a spritz .

Tom Ford Alphonse sunglasses, and Tom Ford Black Orchid

Then I have my keys on a Paul Smith key ring naturally, and a few products. I have Anatomicals Stop Cracking Up because sometimes my lips get really dry, and this is a great lip balm for when they are chapped. Kiehl’s Facial Fuel lip balm for when my lips need a bit of non-shine moisturise, and are not too chapped, and Kiehl’s Eye Alert to combat those morning puffy tired eyes. I also have some Life, and Anthony samples from Space NK Apothecary like Picture Perfect Face Moisturiser, Mighty Mitts Hand Cream, and Anthony Logistics for Men Vitamin C Facial Serum.

Paul Smith key ring, Anatomicals lipbalm, Life, Kiehl's, Anthony Logistics products

So what’s in your bag?

Lorien.Me

My affaire de cœur with life, fashion, and anything that may fascinate, or astound me.

Tag Archives: Tom Ford

Lorien Loves Yves Saint Laurent

Getting casual with Sandro

What I wore to Lovebox

Oscar Magnuson

My Fragrance Edit

Space NK Christmas

Amsterdam

My first London Fashion Week

Polo Ralph Lauren Fair Isle

In my bag