Chanel Windows

If you have been in London recently you may have noticed the Chanel windows have changed - this time they have a connection to the current ad campaign. This includes a photo-booth, the latest AW collection and quirky poses/props. From marilyn monroe hair, masks, camellias, lace and writing on faces - it has made for a playful window theme with a number of possibilities. See below the Bond Street window along with other vm pics:

Chanel's World at Harrods

To everyone that made the Harrods Project possible I would like to say a big thank you. It was a lot of hard work, but with such a dedicated team it was all possible. To anyone that does not yet know, for three weeks Chanel is taking over the Harrods department store; we now occupy 23 of Harrods windows, the majority being along Brompton road. As well as that we have a beauty and separate accessories and fashion pop-up boutique, and an experience exhibition on the third floor. Chanel is the first brand to do such a project - and the launch yesterday was a great success. Please if you can take the time to check it out, here's a sneak preview:

Tunbridge Wells Shop Watch

As we have seen in the past year or two, manor houses and country estates have been major influences in windows and store displays. From mounted animal heads, rich fabrics to stately ornate furniture and gold picture frames. And it appears it is re-occuring as a theme for displaying autumn collections. See Jigsaw's window which uses family portraits framed in decadent gold frames in place of mannequin heads. It seems instead of a head of flowers, the new trend for mannequins this autumn/winter is traditional-style paintings! As for the department store Hoopers, they have opted for a different take on the country estate theme, and gone with a library. Books are cleverly stacked to display accessories - and even put on a mannequin's head! In between the mannequins are also lamps with beautiful lace shades - I would not mind one of those - along with the purple Mulberry! Also separate to that main fashion window, Hoopers currently have an adorable childrens window; with colourful pastel hues, piled cushions and beautiful fabrics.
See some photos below - and sorry they are very reflective!

Recent Purchases

Lately the only way I can justify spending money on clothes is if they are suitable for work - so my recent buys have been monochrome or tweed items! That and I still cannot resist buying pieces for my own place (which I actually hope to get somepoint in the not too distant future!) I have found some gorgeous plates, prints and quilts at various antique markets and charity shops. I picked up an adorable china dog, another swan for my collection and old books.

Clothes-wise I recently got a cape - they are making a return for this winter season! As well as blouses and jackets for work; and some bargain shoes from New Look.

Notice also my bargain chair - and the cushion I made from scratch! - that certainly took patience and a long 3 months!

Thrift Finds

Now usually I have no success when I go to TKMaxx, but my luck changed when I took a visit recently to the Brighton branch. I was on the hunt for some knitwear and came across a gorgeous blue Ralph Lauren jumper and a green Pringle of Scotland cable knit v-neck jumper. Both at bargain prices, the Ralph Lauren jumper originally £145 from last season was reduced to £39.99! I also found an amazing Michael Kors leather jacket - but thankfully for my bank balance it was not in my size.