It was love at first site when I spotted this Chambrey shirt in Gap yesterday. I added it to my already existing pile of clothes and  headed to the changing rooms to try everything on. I have to admit when it comes to shopping in Gap, I find it a bit hit and miss. I love the clothes, but I find their sizes to be a little bit all over the place. Anyway, I digest lets get back to the changing rooms shall we! After trying on all all 6 items, and handing 5 items back, it was the chambrey shirt that came home with me that evening. Not only is it the perfect shirt for transitioning from summer to Autumn, it is also perfect for layering and comes with a tiny, adorable peter pan collar, which looks amazing peeking out from underneath a jumper. 

The shirt also comes in black which I'm already adding it to my virtual shopping list for my next visit.....

Film of the Month: Basquiat

Okay, so the plot summery for the 1996 bio-pic Basquiat  may read like every other film set in the sixties with the usual elements of sex drug and rock ‘n’ roll, but what this film certanly doesn't lack is originality. The thing that sets Basquiat apart from all the other predictable art scene films is that it actually worth watching. 

Based on real life artist Jean-Michel Basquiat and his meteoric rise to fame, the film depicts the humble beginnings of a junkie artist trying to make a living in New York. Like most artists in the sixties, Basquiat is ‘discovered’ by Andy Warhol (played by David Bowie), who sets about exploiting and exposing the rising star. With an all star cast including David Bowie, Benicio Del Toro, Dennis Hopper and Gary Oldman, as well a brief performance from Courtney Love, this film tops the list for most underrated  and underwatched film of the 90's.

It's worth watching alone just for Cortney Love's 90's warbrobe ensemble's.

The Affordable Aluminium-free Deodorant

I had recently been toying with the idea of switching to an aluminium-free deodorant. We've all heard the

horror stories of using aluminium deodorant,with the risk of  causing breast cancer being the most extreme. 

Although I was eager to try an aluminium-free deodorant, I was put off with both the high prices and the not-so-appealing online reviews.

However, whilst browsing my local Boots store I came across the brand 'Bionsen'. Truthfully, I had never heard of the brand prior to picking it up, but I decided to give it a go. So, how does it compare to regular deodorants you may ask? Well firstly, Bionsen doesn't contain aluminium or parabens. It doesn't stop your body from sweating, instead it prevents bacterial from forming-pretty clever 'eh. It's also designed for sensitive skins and can be used straight after shaving which is always a bonus.I've been using Bionsen for over a week now, and I'm already converted. It has a light, floral fragrance and lasts throughout the day without a whiff of body odour in sight.

I picked up the spray version, but Boots also stocks the full range. There is currently a 1/3 off the brand at Boots - I picked mine up for only £2.19.If your curious about converting to an Aluminium-free deodorant, you can't go wrong with this one.

International Fashion Sites Worth Browsing

When it comes to clothes shopping there are times when the British High Street just doesn't cut it like its international competitors.Sure we've got Topshop,H&M and Zara at our every disposal  but so has the rest of the national. There is nothing worst than turning up at a party wearing the same Topshop dress as another three girls at the party. With the rise of accessible international brands via  ASOS, its even easier to shop for international brands and retailers. But what about the lesser known brands lurking behind every Alexa Chung or Charlotte Gainsbourg outfit.

Below are my all time favourite international sites that I usually browse for outfit inspiration with the odd, sneaky purchase thrown in.

1. Weekday

The cooler, more laid back sister of H&M.The brand lends its hand to loose silhouettes, monochrome tones and abstract shapes.

                                                                        (Weekday)

 2. Mads Norgaard

This Danish retailer provides all the necessary props needed to perfect the typical Scandinavian wardrobe. Think black bomber jackets, indigo denim and slouchy sportswear and your pretty much there.

                                                                                             (Mads Norgaard)

3. Steven Alan

This America brand encapsulates the luxurious, preppy hipster. As well as stocking their own branded clothing, Steven Alan also stocks designers such as A.P.C, Rachel Comey and Karen Walker. The prices are pretty eye-watering and they do not currently ship to the U.K, but its definitely worth browsing if your low on outfit inspiration.

(Steven Alan)

4. La Garconne

You would be forgiven for thinking this website was French as it does the whole chic Parisian vibe so well. However, this online retailer currently resides on the other side of the globe in New York City. The site bridges the gap between masculine and feminine dressing, making the perfect boyfriend stealing wardrobes complete with effortless layering.

                                                                   (La Garconne)

5. Ganni 

Another Danish brand hitting all the right buttons. Definitely a little more luxurious than other Danish brands.Think laid-back evening wear with textured fabrics and clashing prints.

 

Film of the Month: Palo Alto

Directed by Gia Capolla and based on the book of short stories written by James Franco-this pretty much sums up the tone of the film. As the title suggests the film is based in Palo Alto, California and stars Emma Roberts, James Franco, Jack Kilmer and Val Kilmer (dad of Jack Kilmer). The film is shot beautifully and also boasts an impressive sound track from Blood Orange.

If you like the Virgin Suicides, definitely give this film a try.

Seventeen Cheek Stamp Blush

Have you ever purchased a beauty product based on its cute but gimmicky packaging, without knowing if the products is actually gonna be any good? That’s exactly what I did yesterday when I picked up the Seventeen cheek stamp blush. 

Whilst browsing the make-up counter’s in Boots, I was drawn to one of the bottom shelves and spotted these cute, little cheek stamps. Before I had even swatched the product I was already adding it to my basket - although it was the cute packaging that really sold me. With a compact mirror on the outside and both the blush and brush tucked away neatly inside it looked too good to leave behind. There was even a nod to artist Keith Haring with the outer packaging, which once again sucked me right in. 

 

I quickly tried the product on my hand and ended up purchasing the shade ‘blushin’. I tried the product as soon as I got home and was really impressed with the pretty but subtle results. Just like the name suggest, it deposits a stamp of colour on the cheeks which lasts all day and leaves behind a pale flush of colour. Coming in under a fiver it is definitely worth purchasing, and would look amazing in the summer with minimal make-up. Have you tried any of the cheek stamps shades? Let me know your thoughts.

Dermagor Matiderm Mask Review

I picked up this mask on a trip to Paris last week after a recommendation from a friend. After using this mask only twice in the past week it has shot up my list and is now one of my favourite skincare products. 

As the name suggests, this mask soaks up access oil and leaves skin with a matt, glowing complexion. I first tried the mask last week and was amazed with the results. I applied the mask all over my face and left it on for a good 20 minutes. The texture of the mask is similar to a think moisturiser but once it’s applied to the skin it dries up within minutes. After the mask has dried I washed it off with warm water and was amazed at the results. My skin felt soft, smooth and looked glowing. I could see myself wanting to use this mask everyday as the results were just too good to be used only once a week.

As the mask is also intended for sensitive skin and is so gentle it can be used daily, applying a thin layer for a few minutes for an instant glow. My one and only gripe with this product is that it that the 40ml tube is too small for my greedy mitts. I’ve already ordered another tube here in case I run out too soon. Have you tried any of the Dermagor products, any recommendations?