Today I wore shorts out in public, this is a bit deal for me – not because I hate my legs (in fact they’re not bad). I just had some kind of complex regarding wearing shorts in public, I’m not really sure why, or what it stems from, but I am determined to get over it. So here, I present you with me, yes, me, in shorts:

Went out of the house in shoes too small… they were fine at first, but now my feet are in agony! I had to buy some new shoes out, as it got too bad. I didn’t realise my feet had grown, last time I wore the said shoes it was fine – ah well, just goes to show. If I’d have known they were too small I’d have never have worn them, but I was in a hurry, and they seemed fine at first – just a bit tight. Always nice to have an excuse to buy new shoes right?

Tad random, but I’ve had a bit of a craving for cheese scones recently – consequently I have been making them all the time. I’m slowly becoming more, and more demonstrative of my domesticity. Watch out Wysteria Lane, I’m a house husband in the making…, or not, but no I like the feeling of achievement from cooking/baking. It’s not something I’ve started to do until recently, and I must admit I quite enjoy it, so here you go, have a cheese scone:

So I’m going to do something a bit different. I feel like discussing a few products with you. I’m a bit of product junkie, as in I’ll try anything new, or interesting (whether I need to, or not). As I am sure you are all aware I am a bit of a label fan too, as in put the name Clinique on it, and I’ll try it. I’m just going to discuss a few products with you, some I would not buy again, and others which I found to be surprising bargains.

These are some products I would NOT buy again:

(from left to right)

GHD – shine reflection spray:

For the cost you can get so much better from another cheaper brand. This small little bottle costs £12.95, and is only 50ml. Whilst providing shine well, it is more the cost, and value that is off putting, for example Charles Worthing does a shine spray that is a lot cheaper, and does exactly the same thing. Also I find this product leaves your hair a bit greasy compared to other shine sprays I’ve used. I don’t tend to use shine sprays anymore, as I don’t need to, but if you are going for one… go for something else. This product works, but it isn’t anything special, and there are far better products for a lot less.

Clinique (Skin Supplies for men) – exfoliating body wash:

As a man, it’s always nice to have a product that isn’t fragranced in some ridiculous smell, and this product offers that. It is 100% fragrance free. It works as an exfoliating body wash, but at £13.50 for 200ml it is really over rated. It does leave you feeling fresh, and clean – but like GHD’s shine spray, it’s nothing special, and I wouldn’t particularly recommend it – if anything it is just a waste of money. It isn’t amazing, and you can get better products for a lot less – that do a lot more. I also did not find the exfoliating quality of it that great, although it did make a good body wash.

St. Tropez – body polisher:

That is only the small bottle at 120ml. I had the bigger bottle, but I used it up. The bigger bottle is 240ml, and sells at about £15.00. Another mediocre unnecessary product, claims to be amazing, and to give you, ‘smoother, softer skin’, et cetera, and a great base for fake tanning, and some rambling about dead skin cells, and the odd technical scientific sounding word thrown in here, and there. It really did not impress me, it’s a mediocre exfoliator, at a not so impressive price – just go for something else, simple, it’s not worth the price tag.

Clinique (Skin supplies for men) – antiperspirant deodorant stick:

I don’t tend to use deodorant stick, but I was shopping on the Clinique website, and they were out of normal deodorant, so I settled for this. A mistake… Even for a stick deodorant it is absolutely rubbish. It is flakey, gets all over your clothes, and leaves you feeling like you’ve got something under your arms. I would not recommend it at all. It pretty much disintegrates as you put it on, and ends up all over the floor, you, and your clothes, and as for it’s actual performance it was certainly lack lustre. Really not a nice deodorant, save your £11.00, and get something else.

GHD – heat protection spray:

As a fan of GHD heat stylers (or whatever the exalted name they use is), I have used a lot of GHD products. I really do not like the heat protection, it just leaves your hair feeling sticky, and horrible. Even in light amounts. It did not really smooth the hair, or make much difference at all as far as I could tell. I also found the smell a bit annoying, and sickly – not ideal. I don’t find it lasts long either, even with sparing use. It is about £9.95 for 150ml, Toni&Guy (the range they sell in Boots) have a heat defence (Iron-It Heat Defence Spray), that comes in around £5/6 for 200ml. That is so much better, in fact I highly recommend it. Makes your hair smoother, and isn’t too heavy, or sticky. It also seems to last ages.

Clinique – anti blemish solutions body spray:

Occasionally I get the odd blemish break out on my body, I am only human after all (sadly I cannot be perfect… I can pretend though!). Before seeking the help of antibiotics I tried various products including this. I don’t know the exact price, but it wasn’t particularly cheap. It’s a hard one to judge as skin, and skin blemishes can be so different – but I found it made no difference. I used as directed, and other than smelling absolutely vile, it did not seem to do anything. It didn’t last long either. A trip to the Doctors is more effective, and will cost you less.

GHD – obedience cream:

Another GHD let down, it didn’t really seem to make any difference to my hair, and even using it in small amounts it just seemed sticky, and annoying. It is part of GHD’s thermodynamics range, and meant for frizz-free styling. According to the back of the product it’s for “maximum hair happiness” – well it just left my hair feeling indifferent. I noticed no difference what so ever and for the £12.95 for 150ml… you’re better off spending your money on something else.

Boots no. 7 (for men) – energising face scrub:

I thought I’d try this scrub as I had a voucher, meaning I essentially got it for nearly nothing. It was just mediocre, it wasn’t expensive at £7.50, but I feel it didn’t really do anything for me. The basic boots face scrub at £3.29 is just as good. I feel they only reason it is that little bit more it because it’s no. 7, their premium range, and marketed at men (which always seems to add value to a product…). I wouldn’t say don’t ever buy it, but I just did not find it particularly anything? I wouldn’t buy it again though myself.

These products are bargains I HIGHLY recommend:

(from left to right)

Superdrug – salt spray:

I am a big fan of salt spray for my hair. Does not work with every hair style, but for that sexy beach matte look it’s absolutely great. Adds fullness to your hair, and finishes it off with a nice matte look. Also acts as a light hairspray, and can protect your hair from mild humidity. I always like to put some in my hair when it is wet before drying it, it adds great texture for that sexy rough matte finish. It’s like having that amazing hair you get at the beach, that you just want to ruffle your fingers through – but without the effort of going to the beach. I suppose it’s a bit like sex hair, mess – but hot (a hot mess, just like me apparently)! It has a light hold, and isn’t too much. I hate product in my hair a lot of the time, especially when it weighs it down – this product does not. I have tried expensive salt sprays from the likes of Label.M, Redken et cetera – but this one is absolutely a bargain for the price. It is only a couple of pounds for 100ml.

Superdrug – styling fibre putty:

Once in a while I use fibre putty on my hair. I don’t tend to often as I’m not really a fan of product filled hair, but sporadically a strong fix, or interesting look is required, and that is where this product comes in. It’s essentially the same as Label.M’s £15 hair glue, except for it was like £2 something? It creates the wild, or well held look you need, and lasts ages, as you only need a little bit each time. You can also restyle on the go, or as, and when needed as it is flexible. A great product, at a great price. Great for when it’s wet, or a really hot night out clubbing.

Superdrug – dry shampoo:

Like salt spray dry shampoo isn’t for everyone. Personally I don’t like to wash my hair every day, as my hair doesn’t need it, and I don’t always have the time. Dry shampoo is a great way to freshen up your hair in between washes – it doesn’t require water, you simply spray, and massage into your hair. It works great for grunge styles, and adds that extra volume to your hair. My hair always looks better when it’s a bit unwashed (it just goes better), and this means my hair can look good, without actually it being dirty. It’s also good for your hair to not wash it too much, I sometimes go days without washing my hair… Try it, I won’t tell anyone. It refreshes lifeless limp hair, and removes grease for in between washes, what more do you need? Sex hair is always a winner. I don’t remember the exact price, but it was one pound something, or two for £2.50 – bargain!!! I’ve tried all different dry shampoos, the classic brand Baptisse, and Tresemme’s new one – I don’t recommend them. Baptisse doesn’t last long, and is a bit bitty. The Tresemme one left my hair feeling erghh, and at four pounds something for that, it’s a no brainer which one wins.

Boots (Essentials) – aftershave balm:

I got sick of spending a fortune on aftershave balm, as I have sensitive skin, and need to use a lot of it. I’ve tried all different products with all different scientific properties, or ingredients promising to do anything but cure cancer, and well I’ve always found myself let down, or found the price tag a bit hefty. I decided to try this aftershave balm from the Boots essentials range. It is no thrills, but it does the trick, and saves a few pennies, here, and there, it was around £2.99 (if memory serves…) for 100ml. Moisturises the skin, isn’t too greasy (in fact it’s nice, and light), and helped with razor burn. …bottom line; it works!

Johnson’s (body care) – 24 hour moisturise:

A classic, who doesn’t love Johnson’s? It is cheap, and it works most of all. It does exactly what it says, it’s no thrills yes – but simple works in some circumstances. Great long lasting moisturising, and I like that it doesn’t have a greasy finish – as so many moisturisers leave you feel like you’ve just bathed in oil… which is never nice. It is also good for mixing with fake tan for a more natural, demure, and subtle look. It works a treat, and costs peanuts (well about £2.99 I think for 250ml), but for general body use, you cannot fault it. It has a mild smell, but it’s pleasant, and not over powering like some moisturisers. As a general all purpose body moisturise, I find it beats some of the premium ones I’ve used any day.

Superdrug – texturising gum:

As aforementioned I’m not a fan of too much product in my hair, but once in a while we all like to put some in! I’ve just delved into this right now, and it’s great for choppy layers, or texturising your hair. Adds texture, and separates layers. You only need a little bit, that’s the key with products like this – a little bit goes a long way. I don’t ever like to use too much product, as it weighs your hair down, and makes it look greasy – this is just right, small amounts, et voila sorted. You can use it on dry, or wet hair, but personally I prefer to use it on dry hair. Although occasionally I put texturising gum on the sides of my hair before blow drying for a more sleek look – it also is apparently great for scrunched curls (cannot say I’ve ventured down that alley myself!). Another really cheap product, cannot remember how much, but Superdrug’s own brand is brilliant.

The snob in me had always over looked Boots, and Superdrug’s own brands. I’d always gone for the likes of premium products, but recently I have been trying a lot of different products, and I’ve been pleasantly surprised. Some products I will always use the premium versions of, there are some classics which will never leave my bathroom (I’m sure everyone is the same! Nothing like a spot of indulgence), but other products I have really realised I can get the same, or more in some instances, for less.

Superdrug’s own brand surprised me the most, it is very up, and coming. Until recently I wouldn’t have given it a second glance, but now I would say it is fierce competition. They have really upped their game, and have a lot to offer – well worth checking out Superdrug’s own brand. It is a brand to reckon with. In this current climate it is also nice to save a few pennies here, and there – after all it soon adds up… and just think how much more Veuve a few cuts in your beauty regime over time could equate to?!

I went to Witley Court (ruins of a country estate near me) the other day, so I leave you with some photographs I took there, because I like leaving you with pictures (I like pictures…):

p.s. thought I’d share with you a mini I saw too (gosh I’m in a sharing mood tonight):

I had an interesting few days in Oxford (back again, only went before last a few weeks ago!), from eating pickled onions in a bar garden on the Cowley Road (why the hell not?! …I’m trying my best to justify it, and failing), fresh fruit Martinis (passion fruit, delicious!), White Russians, grotty pubs with Pin Ups on the bathroom walls, Neapolitan shots, rain storms, Indian take away (om nom nom springs to mind), a made up drink called the Mistake, laughing at soggy Nuns (isn’t that like a cardinal sin, or something?), naked parties (no comment), beat boxing live after parties (six is a magic number apparently), meteor showers (no wishing on airplanes for me – was beautiful!), and just generally lounging about with friends. Prior to Oxford I spent a few days in the countryside of Cymru. Here’s a photograph I took of the beach I would like to share with you:

One of our dear darling family cats got very ill, and sadly had to be put down the other week… I must admit I found it quite upsetting. The cat was only a year, or so younger than myself, and consequently I cannot actually remember life without him. It was very difficult, but euthanasia was for the best, as near the end he started to be in a lot of pain. Life without him is peculiar, it’s like the end of an era. He had a lot of fight in him, and out lived the life expectancy of a pedigree cat by quite some years. So at least he certainly had a long, and very full life for a cat. You could tell he was old just by looking at him, he wasn’t the cute ball of fluff he used to be, in fact his fur grew coarse, and he more, and more he looked like a wise old sage of cats ha, but he certainly had fight in him! So rest in peace Lion.

So the other week I finally got my iMac back, I had a little issue with it. My optical disk drive wouldn’t eject, so I had to haul ass to the Genius Bar at the Apple Store to get it sorted. Of course they did not have the part in stock, so I left my iMac with them, just got it back nearly two weeks later. I have missed it, although not that much, because to be honest I have hardly been home the past two weeks! Thank you to Apple for my warranty, that saved me £129.25… just wish you’d make your products more portable, it’s a bit of a hassle to drag a 24 inch iMac to your store… Ah well. I love my iMac I just think there is something incredibly sexy about the iMac, I absolutely love mine. It meets all my needs perfectly, and well I love it. Since I had my first Mac I was besotted (a Mac Mini in 2005), I certainly could not go back to Windows now. N.B. Just thought I’d get this in before all Windows, anti OSX et cetera fan people start jumping at my throat. I do not think there is anything wrong with Windows. It is a preference thing, and personally I prefer Mac – if you don’t well good for you (I don’t really care). (I’m finding it hilarious I’m having to put this in here, but I know what people are like these days).

Speaking of Apple products I’ve been a very naughty Lorien. Despite the fact I am a gigantic BlackBerry advocate, I now have the iPhone 4. I needed a change, and I was sick of my service provider (T-Mobile for the record) playing up, and not delivering the kind of service that I expect… so I got a new phone, and contract – as you do.

Such a beautiful phone, sadly have to keep it in it’s case just to protect it from scratches, wear, and tear (I don’t have the best phone care track record, alcohol, and phones doesn’t mix well). It looks so much well sexier (yes I did just call an inanimate object sexy) without the case, but ah well! I just grabbed the only case they had in store, but the back is rather funky. Sadly Louis Vuitton haven’t released an iPhone 4 case yet (I want!!!), and there is no indication that they actually will – but I can hope right?! Come on LV, don’t let me down. I need more monogram in my life (who doesn’t?!)

I still hold a space for BlackBerry in my heart, I simply love mine. Until I figure out what I’m doing with my BlackBerry, and sort it out, I have both phones. So I probably look like a drug dealer, or something ha.

I have had a dramatic past few weeks, full of highs, and lows – I haven’t quite mastered stability it seems (I’m working on it), it’s all one extreme to the other. I’ve been trying to keep myself busy, as when I have too much time on my hands I sort of lose it. As fun as hedonistic pursuits can be, it can get a bit too much at times. In fact it has quite disgusted me recently, too much of a good thing, really is a bad thing (and I’m usually all for excess), but it gets to the point where you just feel nothing. Nothing isn’t nice, I don’t like feeling nothing. I don’t like to be empty. I want to be full of life, and emotions, feeling everything, the good, and the bad.

A lot of change is on the horizon, I need to make some crucial life decisions. I’m actually quite nervous (yes I do get nervous!), change is never easy – but it is essential for survival I guess. A lot of people I know are making a major change right now, I cannot say I am making the same change as them – but I am making a change never less. The route I’ve chosen so far in my life certainly hasn’t been conventional, but I enjoy doing it my way, and I am not going to change for anyone. I think it can take a lot of guts to say I want to do this, or I want to do that. …regardless of what happens, I simply cannot do nothing. I’d lose my mind, as aforementioned I have to keep myself busy. I need to stop waiting for things to happen, and start making things happen. I suppose when it all gets in motion it gets easier.

I have really learnt who my closest friends are recently. Some people have really disappointed me of late, at first I was a tad upset, and now I’m just taking it with a pinch of salt. We’re only human, and in a couple of weeks, days, weeks, or whatever, it’ll all seem rather insignificant, and irrelevant, and I’ll laugh, and wonder why I cared enough to blog about it. I suppose the main issue is it taints things in my opinion, I stop expecting concrete friendships, and start to look at things in a disposable perspective… which is wrong – as a friend shouldn’t be disposable. I know there are some people in my life who are always going to be there for me, but others, I see it almost like a ticking time bomb. I’m just waiting till it’s over, and it makes me not want to trust, or get close to people. I’m reluctant to commit in terms of friendship, if it’s only going to be short lived… I think back to some friendships I’ve had that have faded out, and it sort of hurts, the caring for a person never quite dies out, even if the relationship disintegrates. I guess it is all just a part of life, and I should stop moaning, and get on with it. After all nothing lasts forever, albeit that’s quite a cynical way to think about it, and I’m far from a cynic. I’m more of an idealist… I’d like to think some people will always be in my life, as I cannot imagine it without a certain few individuals, who I genuinely love (they should know who they are), and I don’t like to think other wise. Everything is just so kaleidoscopic recently. I need some stability, but in order to gain some stability, I need to have some major change.

I had a lot more to say, but I cannot say I’m feeling it right now. I feel if I write about it, it will make it more real, and I am not ready for it right now to be honest. I’m trying to keep myself in a positive state of mind, hell even negative would do – anything is better than indifference. It’s a bank holiday weekend, and a friend’s birthday. I am determined to go out, and enjoy myself. I’m living the teenage dream after all.

I always leave you with something (because I’m nice like that), so here you go, a photograph of me earlier in my garden (bit anticlimactic I know right?);

Consequence, and consequences are funny things. Every act, moment, movement has a direct consequence, and also an in direct consequence. Some consequences go by un noticed, and do little to change to our world – other consequences can turn our world’s upside down, just in the blink of an eye our lives can be ravaged into a shadow of their former selves. Whether the consequences are good, bad, or simply indifferent, what bothers me most, is the full on lack of regard for consequences. As a society, we’re all guilty of it, including myself (especially myself), for simply not caring. I feel like kicking myself sometimes, because I really cannot bring myself to feel anything, or even care. I know that I should care for the consequences, but I just simply don’t. This inability to feel, what I know I should feel, makes me feel so empty. It is almost like a surreal state, it hits you, and makes you realise how you are nothing, and how you mean nothing. Every human life is insignificant, the human race is insignificant, after finding these obvious revelations disturbing, I sought comfort in them; comfort in the nothing ness of it all. Nothing matters anymore. No one feels any shame either, although as darling friend did point out to me shame is a human social construct…

Many nights (and mornings) of late, I find myself lounging in my bed staring aimlessly at the blank ceiling admiring every dent, and minute cracking of the eggshell white paint, the dulcet sounds of the Q.V.C. shopping infomercials blast in the background. Nothing like the ultimate garden secateurs, at a SPECIAL low price to put you in a good mood right? They even come with a spare blade, and some bogus guarantee. No? Yeah, I thought so. If it’s not some stupid infomercial, it’s some DVD menu playing some god damn awful music again, and again, and again until you find yourself breathing in time to all manner of instruments, noises, and voices. I find myself unable to get up, and change it despite the fact it’s almost physically painful to bear, the same notes, or voices, over, and over again as the hours pass. For the record, the only thing I can listen to again, and again is Canon in D – there is something about that song which makes it an exception to every rule. I feel paralysed in this quasi mental comatose state, my BlackBerry vibrates sporadically, and annoys the hell out of me. It’s next to me, but I cannot even bring myself to turn it off. It just lays on the pillow next to me, staring at me, watching me crystallised in a state of neither awake, or sleep. Truth be told using a disgustingly cliché phrase; I am stuck in a rut, I’m not entirely quite sure how I ended up here. I can only guess that it is just a combination of a multiplitude of factors. Each factor alone is insignificant, and meaningless, but together it just hits me, and I find myself wasting away.

Despite this I am not going to just sulk in a corner, I am going to set out to change my mood. I am not sure how I can alter it, but I am going to work at it. Loriens don’t go down without a fight, and good thing I am one hell of a feisty person. Quoting someone sort of dear to me;

I went for a walk in my garden the other day, despite living in the countryside, I cannot say I particularly spend much time outside. I adore the countryside, but I do really take it for granted. In keep with trying to take pleasures from little things, I’d like to share some photographs I took whilst walking around.

Now to distract myself from life, and myself (well no, everything here is about me, that’s a bit of a fail…), I am going to share with you three of my favourite staple accessories. I am aware that non of my choices are innovative, or ground breaking in terms of unique ness, but they’re not supposed to be, they are all classic pieces. It bothers me people think less of an item because it is renowned, it does not make it any less of a great item – in my opinion anyway.

I actually cannot wait till it’s colder, and I can start to wear scarves again. I love my classic Paul Smith scarf, there is something about the bright colours, and classic iconic design that just make me smile. …and when it’s really cold I have the matching hat too!

I fell in love with this scarf when I first saw it. Alexander McQueen skull print scarves, have become a bit common place, but that’s because they just work. They’re incredibly fierce, and stylish. I am tempted to get another one I saw, I am trying to refrain (but you know how weak my will is when it comes to new purchases…).

I often feel I am too young for Louis Vuitton monogram, as much as I love it. Despite this I love my Louis Vuitton wallet, there is something about the incredible quality, and LV motifs that just does it for me, and shopping at Louis Vuitton is always an exciting shopping experience. Yes, it is a lot of money for just a wallet, but I see a Louis Vuitton piece as an investment, and I simply love my wallet.

I have the inside heat stamped with my initials, because I can …and because it’s all part of the LV shopping experience.

This blog wasn’t too cryptic, so I leave you with a few cryptic lines as I wouldn’t want to disappoint you (you know who you are, and if you don’t see this, then oh well I guess…);

p.s. I’m still a freak, but I wouldn’t have it any other way

Oh, and if anyone wants to fill any gaping voids in my life, you’re quite welcome to.

When I think of Summer, the first thing that pops into my head is Pimm’s. Anyone for Pimm’s? Oh, yes please!! It is simply divine, and such a refreshing British drink. Pimm’s is a quintessential part of Summer. I don’t know about you, but my Summer certainly wouldn’t be the same without Pimm’s O’Clock moments. Summer has only just begun, and I’ve already managed to get through a few bottles already (not a surprise with this delicious weather right now!), but nothing quite compares to a chilled glass of Pimm’s, and lemonade (personally I’m a Schweppes kind of guy), with some fresh fruit, and mint (from your own garden, even better!). So, whether you are sat lounging in the garden on the flagstones soaking up some divine sunshine, or at a polo match enjoying a fine weekend in style; Pimm’s is an essential part of any summer.

Another part of summer I simply adore is the al fresco wining, and dining (prosecco, and barbeques?!). There is something ridiculously perfect about sitting outside in the evening, when the scorching sun has cooled down slightly, and having a gorgeous meal with friends, and family. Garden parties with glasses of Laurent Perrier rose, family meals (steak anyone?) with a touch of wine, and lunches with a spot of Pimm’s, it is all awfully de rigueur, and very pleasant ways to spend one’s time. Oh, and you cannot forget the ABSOLUTE delight that is Eton mess.

Summer is also an excellent excuse to jet off (not that you need an excuse) on a last minute holiday somewhere warm (especially with England’s bad luck with summer time weather!). Whether you fancy a bustling city break to a cultural city (Prague’s rather nice), or a couple of weeks of lounging, and spraying Veuve over yourself on the beaches of Marbella, or Juan-les-Pins (I mean come on, who wouldn’t want to be covered in champagne spray?!).

Summer en generale equates to a very happy Lorien. I find it allows you to appreciate some of the finer things in life (how many other times of the year is drinking the day so socially acceptable!?), but also combines the simple pleasures on life, in the respect you can just lounge, and relax – it is also a very sociable time of the year. Socialising in the sun is so much more satisfying for some reason. Everyone loves a spot of sun, and can you blame them?

I have found myself to be a very busy Lorien recently; at this time of year everything just seems to happen at once. I have had a lot to celebrate recently, and that’s always nice. A lot of birthdays, promotions, and things of late.

My darling Mother had her birthday too, we had a rather debauched meal, and evening (I invited some of my friends along too!) – which was lovely.

I like this photograph of Mumsy, and I, at my little sister’s birthday party – which I am just about to go on to.

My lovely little sister had her birthday party too, and god is she growing up quick. She is one hell of a fierce little redhead! I cannot believe how much she has grown up recently, thirteen going on eighteen!

I took this photograph of her for one of my classes, she has such a cute little face! I did her hair, and make up in this – it was supposed to be sort of hot mess, posh totty sort of thing? The photograph was supposed to scream excess, with the many rows of pearl, over made up face, and BlackBerry in hand. Her style is very Blair Waldorf esque, she loves pearls, bows, and classy things – but she wears them in her own kind of grungy way.

This photograph of my sister I took before we went out for my Mother’s birthday, she is wearing her first pair of ‘proper’ heels in it. She didn’t have any black tights that she hadn’t laddered, so we decided to mess them up more for a kind of grunge Princess sort of look? Very Courtney Love, or Taylor Momsen I guess? I think my little sister’s style is so cute, I love the quilted Chanel esque bag (I bought her that!), and the simple pearl bracelet – very cute.

So, who watched the World Cup? England’s loss to Germany was painful to watch – it really was brutal. Shame that we’re now out of the World Cup, as I rather enjoy watching the matches – oh well, better luck next time I hope! England played shamefully this time around, quite frankly I don’t think anyone is proud of our team right now. I love the atmosphere when you watch the matches, how it is so tense, and you’re on the edge of your seat (the alcohol consumed whilst watching it is always fun too).

I’m so exhausted, it is nearly 3 am as I write this, I’ve been non stop for days now, and I’ve barely slept at all. So much going on. Too little time! I’ve had a few issues recently, but I suppose I can sum it up with this very good piece of advice:

Cliché, yes, but could have been worse, could have used Diana Vicker’s lyrics (after all I’m only going to let you kill me once!)? Something clearly I definitely need to pay more attention to… Ignorance is bliss, and sadly I’m not ignorant – enlightenment isn’t always the answer.

I have a lot to think about, but I’m not quite sure what to make of a lot of things – that combined with the epic factor that I’m a procrastinator extraordinaire really isn’t helping me right now… but ah well! I’m going to do things, and I’m going to do them my way; Lorien Adey isn’t going to change for anyone, and if you thought you could ever change me, ha well you are most certainly mistaken.

I think the following quote is quite relevant right now;

Now, I am going to bed as it’s ridiculously late, I have a busy day tomorrow, and my cup of tea has gone cold! I leave you with this photograph of me, because I can, I thought it looked pretty cool, and because I’m vain like that:

Starting on a negative note isn’t something I am particularly fond of, as a generally positive person, but here goes. I find myself having to deal with a lot of double standards recently, and quite frankly I’m tiring of it. Some people seem to thrive off the act of being judgemental, especially for acts they themselves also sporadical commit. Hypocrisy is not flattering with anyone. We all are guilty of it once in a while, but there are acceptable, and unacceptable degrees of it. The only thing I could say of certain recent actions is, you soon learn who your true friends are, and for that I am thankful. I would rather be hated for who I am, than loved for who I am not (to be cliché). Friendship is better in quantity than quality, that is one thing I am entirely sure of. I have found a few of my friendships of late very kaleidoscopic, I can understand why – I guess I should have known better in that regards. I guess essentially all I have to say is get off your pedestals, and high horses, because the claws aren’t out, this isn’t a fight; I’m over that. If you get some satisfaction from your actions then go you, but quite frankly I couldn’t give a damn. I cannot even find myself disappointed in any of you.

Another note inspired by a recent event… If you end a friendship with me because you think that I consider myself better than you, then you’re being entirely hypocritical too. If that is the case, then you are considering yourself better than me – to the extent you choose to terminate a friendship for no apparent reason? I like to believe in equality, emphasis on ‘like to’, but such actions do make me think that I am better than you, and I certainly did not to begin with. Either way said friendship has not really been a great loss, it’s just proved the folly of oneself, and essentially given me the last laugh. I pity you, and I certainly will not be rude to you in the way that you were rude to me – because that is not how I conduct myself. I am not better than you, but I am better than that.

Well enough cryptic blogging (not something I really like to do if I’m honest…), just needed to get that out of my system before it consumed me entirely. Queue the music, and the whole, ‘you’re so vain, you probably think this blog is about you.’ plethora of drama, but I just wanted to say my bit, and now I rest my pen on that note. It’s all a pity, and some people just need to get a grip I guess. This is just all wearing me out, having to deal with unnecessary conversations lacking in any viable valuative polarity, or contribution to my life. It should be taking any priority in my life, I have many things to do, and dealing with crap like that isn’t very high on my agenda.

Now on to positive things, as en generale, I have a very good life, very good friends, and I really enjoy myself. I am thankful for that. In life once you learn to appreciate the little things you can do anything, I find myself appreciating some of the littlest of things these days – albeit of course the giant gestures in life are always great too. Satisfaction lies more in a state of mind, than in a state of materialistic gain. I found out the hard way, but a bit of retail therapy never does go a miss… In life you have some friends who are always there for you, and would do anything – then you have those who aren’t always there for you, maybe wouldn’t do anything for you, but you appreciate them in your own way for their own unique qualities. Everyone brings something to table, variety is the spice of life. I am very happy to have such diverse friends, each, and every one of them means something to me (even if they are sometimes a bit of a dickhead).

My throat is raw, my hair is a mess, my jeans have random stains on (what I’m not quite sure…), I’m physically exhausted, and I’m pretty sure I am looking rather worse for wear, but I am still smiling. I have had an excellent few days. I literally did not stop drinking for four days, which proved to be highly amusing, and it was nice to spend so long with my friends in the city. Some friends have proved to me how much I mean to them, and in turn, I hope they realise how much they mean to me. Despite the odd scandal, and alcohol induced drama (I don’t think my one jumper will ever be the same), I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I do not think it’s hit me yet! My liver probably does not love me currently, it has well, and truly been abused this past few days. I saw Lady GaGa Friday before going out, which was magnificent, she put on one hell of a show, and I was impressed! It was well worth the rather pricey tickets to go to the Monster Ball. I am now a liberated free bitch if anyone asks . I also had my trip to Oxford last week for a friend’s birthday, was extremely fun, but quite messy, then I went to Cardiff, and Barry to see my parents, and grandparents, got to sunbathe on the beach, and generally had a lovely time.

I leave you with a photograph of me (at the time I was having lunch with some of my dearest friends) somehow looking fresh despite my debauched few days (I was surprised I looked so well in it!);

I want to live somewhere where drinks flow from cocktail hour till breakfast at Tiffany’s.

p.s. remember in retrospect it’s nothing, and all you can really do is laugh.

The brand really lives up to it’s statement of ‘COS for women and men who want high fashion with good quality at an affordable price.’ Collection of Style gives a stylish unique look that you would struggle to find else where on the high street, and above all it’s also quite reasonably priced.

When I wear COS pieces people always compliment them, there is something about the style, and quality, that together just works so well. It is fast becoming one of my favourites stores.

The past few days I have found myself to be spoilt by extraordinary food, and fine alcohol. I have had family staying, and consequently ate out a ridiculously amount – cannot complain, although I can still feel the 16oz steak in my stomach! I think I take my locality for granted, as Worcestershire has such great choice when it comes to food.

Some of the country pubs around me are divine, one particular favourite of mine is The Talbot at Knightwick. The Talbot has such delicious food, I have never had a bad meal there. All the food, and ingredients are locally sourced, or grown by the pub itself. The Hereford steak there is divine!

Had a fleeting visit to Burford House, and Gardens, haven’t visited there in quite a while. It is really a divine house. It is a three story Georgian house, which is set in such picturesque gardens, and they have tons of Clematis – not really my thing, but it is famous for it. The weather could not have been nicer for my visit.

So, as I am sure everyone is aware Harrods is no longer owned by Mohamed al-Fayed (it sold for £1.5 billion), and there are talks of expansion to even a store in China! Lets hope Qatar Holdings sustain Harrods as the iconic landscape we all know it to be. Harrods (founded in 1834) is the largest store in the United Kingdom, it occupies a 4.5 acre site.

It is known world wide, and a brand name associated heavily with extravagance. Harrods once in a publicity stunt launch used an actual snake, a cobra, to guard a pair of Rene Caovilla shoes worth £62,000… crazy right? Also think back to the Aleksandr Orlov Meerkat stuffed toy stunt that I have mentioned in a previous blog.

I had a very peculiar impulsive desire the other day. The impulsive person I am, I of course followed it through (with a little persuasion from a very gorgeous person too!)… The other Sunday I got my nipple pierced in Selfridges – as you do. En generale I am not a big fan of piercings, or tattoos, but I really like it. I’ll spare you the photographs, Facebook (I’m sure my Daddy loved that!), and Twitter (which you should of course already be following me on; http://www.twitter.com/kaleidoscopeboy) have already suffered that delight. So what’s the craziest thing you’ve done lately?

The past few weeks have been absolutely manic, it seems everything happens at once – I have been a very, very busy boy, and as much as I adore keeping myself busy (takes my minds of things), it has been awfully tiring. Have a lot coming up in the next few weeks too, oh, and summer is on it’s way.

I absolutely cannot wait till summer properly commences, nothing like a spot of Pimm’s O’Clock, and of course lots, and lots of barbeques. Summer is more definitely my favourite time of year, warm lovely weather makes for a very happy Lorien. Speaking of happy Lorien, a certain some one has kept me rather happy quite recently… will be interesting to see how that develops (or doesn’t…).

Now, I am going to love, and leave you with one of my favourite quotes;

I suppose it started off as a report of my amour-propre so to speak, then diverged into something completely different. This is a very modified, and abridged version I’m sharing with you.

My life right now;

- Full time student (when I bother to go, and don’t wake up a la Rita Hayworth in the afternoon, or pull a Holly Golightly, and just don’t sleep at all), and part time self proclaimed Office Bitch (sometimes).

- Cocktail, and champagne (Dommy P please!) excessive consumer.

- Slightly neurotic, impulsive, compulsive, arrogant, bombastic (I caught it off a certain ‘rat’), pompous at times, pretentious et cetera, et cetera, and at times a tad (understatement of course) belligerent.

- Daddy to a darling sugar glider named Louis.

- Causer of hassle/drama whatever I do in life, I get myself in the most peculiar situations (on a regular basis somehow) unintentionally… although I did enjoy extreme hide, and seek – needless to say it was quite thrilling.

- Teenage spinster with too many cats (‘come the fuck on Bridget!’, comes to mind?).

- Professional dirty stop out (this I am proud of).

- I live off the main food groups of cocktails, percy pigs, sushi, and steak.

- In a love hate relationship with my BlackBerry (the only person for me . ).

- Diamond in the rough (I can pretend? Right?).

- HOT MESS! (not to be confused with Ke$ha, I’m not a skank [yet] – albeit I’m sure I’d pull glitter off a hella lot better than …. (see definition of twat). ).

Typical aspects of my day;

- Roll out of bed in a very Ke$ha esque manner (minus vomit, and glitter naturally), (usually circa 1 pm), scrunch hair up a bit, spend time making it look like I’ve been having sex for ten million hours, or just got out of bed (either applicable, and preferable).

- Usually throw on some clothes laying on the floor, and somehow usually come up with a decent ensemble. Sunglasses are good, preferably big fuck off black ones (see Chanel, or Versace). Proper shoes on a daily basis, who cares if they hurt after awhile, they look good.

- Potter around dancing in my underwear to ridiculously loud music, putting clothes on, and off. (repeat, repeat, repeat^585858844.55654444 – no joke).

et cetera, et cetera. I think I’ll end it there…

Now on to a subject that has been preying on my mind of late, this subject is change.

Change is a funny thing, it is a constant occurrence in life that is never ending. It varies in significance, by the degree of change, to such an extent, change can go unnoticed, or on the other hand it can be so substantial that it creates an unimaginable impact. It affects us all, and everything in our lives. Certain circumstances in our life lead us to face more changes as opposed to other points, where very little change happens.

Right now I am facing a lot of change in my life, and quite frankly it scares me. Not all change is good change, but I always think no matter what life throws at you, that you should give it your best shot. After all, what do you have to lose? If you have something to lose, chances are half the time, your life would be better off without it. Sometimes you become far too attached to the things in life, and you forget the little things, the things that matter, the most important things in your life.

Now, and again you have to go to basics, and look at yourself á la distance to appreciate your life, and to see things in retrospect. There are things in life where I haven’t exactly conducted myself in the best possible way, but you learn from this, well I have, and you develop upon it. I do not regret anything, because there is no point – it’s in the past, and I’m certainly not going to regret anything which makes me smile, or laugh for that matter.

Some changes in life you have control of, others you have no say what so ever in the matter. I personally find my least favourite the ones you decide. If it is a change you have no control of, you just get on with it, and somehow find a way to cope. When it is a change you have carte blanc so to speak with, there is so much to consider. The consequence is all down to a rash choice you make essentially, and it can be quite daunting.

I am taking the attitude, ‘what is the worst that could happen?’, as really when it’s bad, it’s never really that bad. Armed with this attitude I am ready to face my the changes needed in my life, I am ready to face the world. I am on top of the world.

I went to Oxford for a couple of days last week to visit some great people, it is such a beautiful city, full of beautiful people. People in Oxford are so nice verse to my locality. This little trip was what I needed, it made me realise a lot of things about myself, my life, the people in my life, and just things en generale. I feel strangely refreshed, despite the fact I had quite a debauched time. One night went to a grotty bar club called The Cellar, grotty in the best possible way – in bars, and clubs similar to this, I’ve had some of the best nights out. I don’t think any photograph could do the night justice, never less I’ll share one with you;

I feel alive again, and I feel positive – things in my life are going good. I’ve encountered people worth been in my life, and I am really enjoying myself.

I went to the beach the other day, it was, well beautiful. My parents were away in Wales, and I visited them for a couple of days.

I bought myself an Alexander McQueen scarf the other day from Harvey Nichols, prior I had always hesitated – but once I tried it on, well, I had to have it!

I took a picture of the sky at sunset on the first day of the Volcanic ash;

Summer is here, and you know what that means? Lunching alfresco, I simply love it. Nothing like a spot of Veuve in the sun, or picnics by the river side – like we did in Oxford.

I’m leaving this at this, I’m happy, and enjoying myself. I am ready to tackle what life wants to throw at me, I say bring it on. I’m walking around smiling to myself, and no one is going to bring me down this time.

I leave you with this picture of me enjoying the sun, because I love the sun, and the sun is delicious… Pimm’s O’Clock, yes please…

Do you think this was enough cocktails to order in one go? Ha.

So, I got my cocktails, hence to say it was a successful weekend. Which equates to a very happy Lorien indeed. I feel like I am on a cocktail diet half the time – not complaining though!

Caught up with a lot of friends last night that I had not seen in quite awhile – which is always nice. It was really quite a peculiar night in the best possible of ways, started off the evening (after getting ready drinking champagne…) in Hahas for cocktails, and dinner – I had steak of course. I seem to have steak for dinner rather often, but it’s simply one of my favourites.

Bought myself another new shirt because I felt like it. I was in need of some retail therapy; so on Saturday after a cocktail with my friend, I hit Harvey Nichs.

The shirt I chose is very different from anything I usually wear. I tend to stick to plain, or stripes. It is a very adventurous choice for me, but I am very pleased with it. The pattern is of little white leaves on black. I am in general of the opinion that patterned shirts bar check, and stripe are more a thing you can pull off with age. Young men look silly sometimes in floral, paisley, et cetera. Patterns for young people is a risk, it can look almost tacky, but I would say this shirt is patterned in such a way it can be pulled off.

I often find with shirts that they are too big for me as I do not have much of a chest – even in smaller sizes. In the Paul Smith London slim fit range this is not the case. It is an excellent cut, and taper; the tailoring is divine – a fifteen collar fits me perfectly. The range is made in Italy. The collars are hand turned, and constructed in such a way the shirts can be worn with, or without a tie.

I had a really pleasant shopping experience at Harvey Nichols Birmingham, the sales assistant was a delight. I could not have asked for better service. It is little things such as the way they offer you a drink as you shop, down to the service with a smile that all count together with other factors for a pleasurable experience. I can honestly say many stores do not offer such a high level of customer care, but Harvey Nichs really does. A good shopping experience puts me in a good mood, I don’t know about you! Have you ever had a really positive shopping experience that left you with a smile on your face?.

Harvey Nichols was founded originally in 1813, and was a linen store. It is now a world renowned reputable luxury department store chain; with branches even in Hong Kong. The luxury chain, which flagship store is in Knightwick, is owned by Hong Kong business man Dr. Dickson Poon. It is a brand rich in history, and is considered very prestigious. I simply love Harvey Nichols because it sells a lot of items that you do not get in other department stores – the buyer for Harvey Nichs is superlative. It tends to have a very interesting, an unique collection compared to other luxury department stores… oh, and there is just something about the white crisp shopping bags I just cannot resist.

I am tired of a certain individual recently, but I do not think said individual is part of my life anymore. Which disheartens me, but pleases me at the same time. Maybe there will be a point when it’ll be appropriate for said person to re-enter my life. Until then I guess I will just leave them to their “ruinous” ways, and get on with my life. After all; the show must go on! …they also say you hurt the ones you love the most – which I think is very true. Ah well, moving on to the better things.

The only thing I can say of recent events is that it has helped me realise who my true friends are, and has taught me to value the people I trust even more so. It has also made me think a lot about my future, but let’s not even go there.

I had best go to bed; it is near 3 am… I have class tomorrow, and I am out tomorrow, well today, this evening, for my friend’s birthday.

I leave you with this quote;

“I was born when you kissed me. I died when you left me. I lived a few weeks while you loved me.”
- Humphrey Bogart

So? What have I been up to? The usual I guess! Attending class, a spot of work, boozy lunches (had a divine one at Hotel du Vin the other night!), lovely evening meals (had a particularly night one at my friend Ben’s with some Veuve of course!), cocktails, drinks, and nights out. I’ve caused a fair bit of scandal, but what would life be without a spot of scandal?

Had a little brush with the law, as you do – I never looked so good getting out the back of a police car. Shame nothing was formal, I would have loved a mugshot! Ah, well, one can dream right?

I bought myself a new hold all the other day, as I somehow got paint on my Ralph Lauren one – bit peeved about that. I think it was in this one hotel walking down the corridor, didn’t notice till a few days later.

Modelled with yours truly of course. It is the hold all in the Mini series Spring/Summer ’10, the Mini is on a crane in London apparently. I’ve really had a thing for Paul Smith accessories of late. I have the Mini series messenger bag for Autumn/Winter 09, the one where it is set in Sherwood Forest. I just love the simplicity of the designs, and the finish is excellent.

I received a ‘delightful’ blog comment the other week, have not got around to responding it till now. I am publicly responding to it, as the coward who left it didn’t have the courtesy to leave a viable e-mail address, and set their website url as ralphlauren.com ha. So here we go;

I don’t blog for you, I blog for me, and don’t you forget that.

May have treated myself to a new pair of shoes, haven’t been that happy recently so a bit of retail therapy was in order. I did not even intend to buy them! I popped into Selfridges for a birthday card, and popped out with a new pair of Kurt Geiger shoes, but no birthday card… (as you do).

I really like them, black, patent (I’m a sucker for a bit of shine…) lace ups. Quite a reasonable price too!

Yum, just look at that delicious finish! I cannot wait to debut them tomorrow; dependent on weather of course. Some people find patent a bit too much, or prefer it slightly more demure – but remember I don’t do things in halves; it’s all, or nothing.

Kurt Geiger opened his first store in 1963, since then KG has taken the world by storm.

With delicious court shoes like that, at a rather reasonable price… is it surprise that Kurt Geiger is such a big name in the shoe industry? No, it’s really not! It’s high-end style, at a lower end price. Using Vogue’s favourite phrase (these days it seems…), it’s more dash, than cash.

Since I bought them… well I have kind of lived in them, but do you blame me? I adore them!

So, I am quite excited; despite going to sleep at gone 5 am this morning I got up at 8 am… I had a mission, and the said mission is complete.

I am going to the ball, the MONSTER BALL.

Yes!!! I got my Lady GaGa tickets for May in Birmingham, should be fun.

I am also quite excited about seeing Ellie Goulding the end of this month. I’ve been obsessed with her for quite awhile now. Her album finally came out the first of this month (I pre-ordered it naturally), I suggest you go check it out. She won the Critic’s choice award at the Brits this year, she is certainly one to watch in 2010. I’m really looking forward to experiencing her live.

Oh, and wait… it gets better. I also happen to be seeing Hole in early May… quite excited for that too.

So, yes, I have a few upcoming things to be excited about. I like to keep myself busy socially, and academically, it’s always a good thing for the state of my mind!

Oh, and I treated myself to a new shirt the other day – don’t want to wear my shirts to death; I’ve got to introduce new ones now, and again! I’m quite fussy when it comes to shirts, probably why I do not have too many. Very few shirts do I actually like enough to buy.

I went for this shirt, because it’s just simply a classic. Nothing beat’s a classic Polo Ralph Lauren Oxford shirt. Every wardrobe should contain at least one. In fact I think I may wear mine tomorrow… it’s fast becoming a favourite of mine.

So the weekend is calling, I’m still unsure as to what it holds. …but as long as cocktails are involved I am sure it will be fine! I’ve been rather well behaved this week (compensating for last week, which was VERY debaucherous, I was even out Sunday night!!). I think I lived off mojitos last week amongst many other cocktails; not complaining though! What are you doing this weekend?

I have a few bad habits to sort out, by habits I mean people. It’s time to get myself back on track. Lorien is here to stay, whether you like it, or not.

I leave you with this snapshot of my friend Steff, and I – pardon the quality; quick BlackBerry camera shot…

p.s. congrats to my darling “twin” Tara Tomes, who was appointed an editor at Style Birmingham a couple of weeks ago. Article here: http://www.stylebirmingham.com/style-news/stylebirmingham-com-has-a-new-editor/.

p.p.s. Thanks to Brian (whoever you are), for featuring in this entry, you’re a doll!

I dusted off the old Ted Baker shirt, and celebrated New Years in style clubbing avec my close friends in Worcester – I, of course, naturally had to have Dom Pérignon at midnight – after all that is the only way to do it. Quite frankly my dear readers, I do not think you would expect any less from me?

Oh, and boy, what a night that was! I have had a few mad nights recently, consisting of excessive consumption of alcohol to the extent I have spent too much, and cannot even recall any of my night at all, that a routine ritual of intentionally smashing champagne flutes (now that’s just shameful…) has developed, and I best leave it at that before I get shipped off to rehab, or arrested for that matter (as much as I’d love a mug shot on my wall!).

It’s a New Year, and time to look to the future, and think about refinement, and self development. I’ll get back to you on that one… still haven’t decided my New Years resolutions yet – better late than never I suppose right?

I must admit I did not have any last year, this year I am determined, so watch this space.

What are your New Years resolutions? How did you do with last year’s?

I hope you all made use of January sales, I know I did! Picked myself up a few delightful pieces, which I shall have to share with you sometime. I have a new blazer it is absolutely divine, I’ll show you next entry!

Recently I have made like Rita Hayworth, and haven’t got out of bed till the afternoon (because I can, of course!). Need rectify this now the holidays are over, and I need to get on with my life.

I’ve been thinking about “fashion moments” (as you do, well I do), and I thought I would share some of my personal favourites.

Think back to September 2007, the Kate Moss vintage silk Dior fiasco. Kate wore that gorgeous gold silk dress to the Golden Age of Couture Gala at the V&A, which ended up ripping (apparently due to Courtney Love, but who knows!). At the end of the night Kate emerged in the same dress with a “bit” of a change, she turned the silk gown into a mini dress to hide some of her decency.

Not only innovative, it looks absolutely divine as a mini dress. I don’t think we can even mourn the death of a vintage Dior gown when the end result is so spectacular. The same dress was donated by Kate to her celebrity hair dresser friend James Brown, who used it in an eBay auction for charity. The dress sold for roughly £800 even in that state!

Now think back to May 1971 (before my time!), in sunny St. Tropez – a wedding that made fashion history. The work of the great British bespoke tailor Tommy Nutter who bought Saville Row into the future, yes it’s the wedding of Mick Jagger, and Bianca Perez Macias. I think the photo speaks for itself. Oh, and of course I love the champagne in that photo.

It is one of my favourite moments as it is just such an iconic wedding, it is up there with the late Diana Spencer’s marriage to Prince Charles. The eccentric British icon that is Mick Jagger, the beautiful Bianca, and the incredible tailoring of Tommy Nutter (who actually dressed The Beatles on their Abbey Road album cover) – it was an instant recipe for successful. I think the fact that the relationship between Mick, and Bianca, was so high profile, and the turbulent nature so to speak only adds to the iconic wedding.

The assassination of John F. Kennedy, well to be precise Jackie Kennedy in her pink Chanel suit. On that awful day in November 1963 when the thirty-fifth president of the United State was killed, his wife made fashion history. The late Jackie Kennedy (Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis) already a style icon in her right, made the classic Chanel suit more iconic that day. Despite the awful events which resulted in Jackie’s suit covered in the blood of J.F.K., she refused to change from the blood soiled Chanel suit.

It was a horrific image which made history, the Chanel suit is a representation of strength in my eyes, and that of female struggle, and so the image of Jackie wearing this blood stained suit is iconic. In a way it was almost as if she was saying, “look what you’ve done to me”, as she boarded Air One with her husband’s casket in her ruined suit.

Long gone are the days of Hermione Granger in Harry Potter, Emma Watson is a name in her own right these days – in June 2009 it was confirmed she had signed a six figure deal with Burberry for modelling the Autumn/Winter collection 2009.

Why have I chosen this a moment you may ask, well because I have a LOT of respect for Emma Watson. Unlike most stars of her age, she hasn’t let her fortune go to her head (she made over £10 million alone from Harry Potter). Emma has not gone off the rails, she is in fact very much in check. She has brains, despite her busy career she managed to be very academical successful, and she attends the Ivy League American private university Brown – which is quite a feat itself.

So here is to Emma Watson, she has her moments in the spot light, and still manages to keep her life on track, and be successful in every aspect of her life. Oh, and I suppose the fact that it was Burberry’s first show at London Fashion week in 10 years (as it was LFW’s 25th anniversary) adds to this photo, that Watson was there dressed by Burberry.

In August 2009 Marc Jacobs hit headlines again (and not for not rehab this time!), with a very strange fashion moment. It is one of my favourite moments, as it quite frankly just amuses me…

So yes the successful New York fashion designer who has worked with the likes of Kate Moss, child actress Dakota Fanning, Victoria Beckham, music legend M.I.A., the gorgeous Chloë Sevigny, and even Jarvis Cocker of The Pulp, created a couture gown for Miss Piggy – yes that’s right, The Muppet’s one, and only, Miss Piggy.

You can see the black taffeta number below with a picture of Marc Jacobs, and Miss Piggy “herself”. Must admit the “unlikely” duo look quite cute together, who knows Miss Piggy might just be Marc’s next Muse ha!

The last, and final one is not so much a fashion moment, but more so an iconic woman – as far as I am concerned; her entire life was one big fashion moment.

She was one of New York’s last proper socialites, she was considered an unofficial First Lady of New York so-to-speak, a generous philanthropist, and an icon of America. Even in her later years she was known to be wearing incredible gowns, lashes of emeralds, and dancing all night long. Not only was she entirely fabulous, but she had a generous disposition, and is reported to have given away incredible amounts of money to charitable causes.

She was the one, and only, Brooke Astor. Her tombstone is engraved with the words; “I had a wonderful life”, and hats off to the late Brooke Astor she certainly did have a wonderful one hundred, and five years of life.

I leave you with a piece of a fashion editorial I am quite fond of. It is from Vogue Paris February 2008, and features Natasha Poly, photographed by Terry Richardson (the full editorial featuring Pierre Gérald is well worth checking out if you’ve never seen it).

I just love how versatile Natasha Poly is, and how much of a glamourous classic beauty she looks in it.

P.S. I have started videologging if you would like to check that out http://www.lorien.me/vlog.

P.P.S. Those of you with Facebook interested in fashion should join the Nelou fanpage http://bit.ly/89Zd0i. Nelou will be a platform to showcase young fashion designers who are ready to present their collections to the public. It is very much in development right now, but never less worth a visit.