Cheers O Clock

So Wimbledon's on huh? 

Essentially it means a smidgen of very-British-loyalty remains intact for Andy Murray 'til about round three when he's knocked out by someone with an impossibly spelt Russian name. Then we're allowed to let on why we're really glued to Court One; Rafa's arms and Federer's well cut Ralph Lauren blazers. 

In all seriousness it is a joy to watch players of that calibre; any sportsman with such blatant natural talent is awe inspiring. But maybe that's the Pimms talking?

Ah, Pimms! Why is it so great? Mainly because all it takes to conjure up a scorching summer full of Panamas and summer-made-of-nothing-dresses is the unscrewing of a bottle and a splash of lemonade. Tired piece of mint and the inclusion of the cucumber that was on your puffy eyes optional.

Call Me. Definitely

So just came across this little film... 

It's alright girls, you don't need to thank me. Enjoy. Besos X

California Dreaming

WANT ALL OF THIS SHOOT. And not just because it features Kellan 'Man Mountain' Lutz. Surely if I double click and buy a couple of these "buttery vintage hoodies" from Abbot & Main and DEFINITELY the Morning Dew mid rise skinnies from Dylan George I'll look as rockin' as Kate Upton, right? Right?

Shot on location at Venice Beach in California by Yu Tsai – totally want to be there. 

Credit where credit's due: Dylan George & Abbot and Main's fall 2012 lookbook 

by Yu Tsai via Fashion Gone Rogue

Brandt New

The long weekend is over. So the sun decides to put its f***ing hat on. Course it does.

I'm not going to go into a very British weather-related rant but instead dwell on the fact that I managed to leave the office, wind my way through traffic and hit up the gym as well as escape into the fresh air for a quick walk and point 'n' shoot. It was a beautiful evening and The Sticks were looking seriously good!

I've also just come across some incredible landscape images from experimental photographer, Matthew Brandt. I spotted them on The New Yorker website (it fulfils my Carrie Bradshaw-esque fantasies about being a writer in The Big Apple) and I have to say I think his work is fantastic. Nostalgic and very cool and of the minute at the same time. Love. Check out more of his work here 

Enjoy!

Shasta Lake CA 4

Mary’s Lake, MT 3, 2012

American Lake WA C8

"Out in the field, Brandt takes with him two key tools: a camera, and a five-gallon plastic jug. “The camera is to take an image of the lake or reservoir, while the jugs are to take some of the actual lake,” he explained. When he gets back to his studio, he makes prints of selected images, then empties the water he collected into a large tray. “The c-print of that same lake is then submerged into the tray with the lake’s water,” he said. “From this point I wait for the water to break down its own photographic image. Depending on the image density and water, this breakdown time can take days or weeks.”

Read more http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/photobooth/2012/06/matthew-brandts-contemporary-landscapes.html#ixzz1x3Ey2vQJ

Credit where credit's due: Me & Matthew Brandt, Courtesy Yossi Milo Gallery, New York via The New Yorker

These are for All Mankind

Renaissance man of the moment, James Franco has jeaned up with 7 For All Mankind to create a series of short films for the denim brand's SS12 campaign. Some are sunny and light as per episode two below; others are dark and glowering. All are very clever so check out the blog here to see the latest instalments.

I love aspects of all of the clips, but the best thing I've discovered – apart from my very real desire for a pair of their Roxannes – is the gorgeous Truth by Alexander Ebert. Video is a little strange (not sure what you're getting at Tao Ruspoli) but the song is to die for. Press play. Sunshine, cold beer, sea air optional.

Credit where credit's due: 7 For All Mankind

Picture one isn't my own, sorry!

All the Small Things

When you're wrapped up in the troubles of the day-to-day; stressed about the deadline or the 

mid-twenties-crisis of "What-am-I-doing-with-my-life?", it's very easy to forsake the little things which make everything OK.

From that little memory that causes a smile, to an actual gentleman holding the door for you (these were distinctly lacking at the Chieveley Services on the M4 last night), it's these things that we must be aware of and thankful for. 

There's lots going on at the moment, but a perfect stranger lending me 30p to take my much needed post work Jack Daniels to a double; a memento which reminds me just how proud my parents are of me; the Rolling Stones' Gimme Shelter and an unexpected parcel of chocolates from C R-B offered some sunshine on an otherwise grey week. 

I'm often in need of a little perspective as I get caught up in This Is My Life, but it's these little moments – not major, important, world-altering occasions – that go a long way to shaking off the woes of the world.

A few small things that help the earth spin!

3 Hungry Boys: This was the perfect antidote to the Sunday Night Blues. Great concept, they looked like they were having a great time AND they're great looking. P.E.R.F.E.C.T. television. Re-runs please.

I adore carousels. The sight and sound of these whimsical rides is enough to forget sore feet and slight hangovers  - as happened in Paris when I persuaded the girls that we HAD to stop and have a ride. 

Even though I'd like to say Daisy Lowe stole MY bangs and rockstar hair...

California Dreamin'

Because rockin' a white shirt and jeans makes getting dressed f***ing easy

Because driving - even a slow old tank like mine - is THE best

Dancing your face off. Whenever, wherever

Credit where credit's due: I'm sorry, none of these images are mine and they're rounded up from my numerous 'Inspiration' folders - it's like my own personal Pintrest. Sorry to not give the shout out.