Saturday, 28 May 2016

PHOTO DIARY: TWENTY ONE










Topshop sequinned top // similar // similar
Vintage earrings // similar



Saturday, 21 May 2016

TREND TALK: SHIRTING







Vintage Levi denim shorts // similar // similar


I've decided to create a new little series here on The Mind's Paradise called Trend Talk where I highlight to you, my fellow readers, about the pros and cons of what is currently trending and what is worth spending your money on! The fashion industry is highly dependent on trends and it can be a difficult task to decipher what's for you.

It is actually not supposed to be an easy task because brands and their marketing teams work hard to make sure that you buy their products. So, I have developed some techniques and tips to picking out trends.


Patience is a virtue 

My advise, for picking trends, has always been to wait, which may be not be the intuitive thing to do. But if you want to keep your wardrobe a place for pieces to stay and be worn consistently, then patience is your friend.

Firstly, see how the trend plays out, because if it's quicker than you can even think about purchasing then you'll be thanking yourself you never invested in the first place. Take the time to think about if this particular piece really suits you and your personal style. There is no use if it doesn't go with anything in your wardrobe or just looks plain horrendous on you! Lastly, question whether the piece is worth spending your money on, even if it isn't very expensive. In my opinion, nothing is worth spending your money on if you're only going to wear it for a couple of months and never touch it again.

Also, something else I also like to think about it is, am I going to exactly the same as everyone else? Does this piece still give me the creative and free expression of my own personal style? If so, then I've got the perfect trend for you...


Shirting has been one of the main focuses on the current season and I suggest you jump on the bandwagon! It is one piece that you'll never really feel guilty about having too many of, since it is so versatile and never really goes out of style.

Brands and fashion girls have really gone to the next level, experimenting with longer and bigger sleeves, strategic and excess buttoning, frills and silhouettes - and the list goes on and on! I love that there is so much choice, so you don't have to give up any requirements you want in a shirt!

I love this shirt because black is not one you particular think is interesting, but once you add shape it becomes a whole new piece. And there is nothing that denim shorts and boots don't go with on this blog.



Leanne 

Photography by Jordan Lee

Tuesday, 17 May 2016

HOW TO: THE LONG COAT





These images have not been retouched.


General Pants top
Vintage jeans // similar // similar
Doc Martins oxfords // similar



While this autumn is taking a slow transition to winter (I can't say I mind), it eased in the dependence of winter wear. I couldn't resist taking this gorgeous long (matrix-like) coat for a spin, that weighty feeling of a warm blanket while instantly bringing the whole look together.

It's all about the navy and grey coats this season, so if you're in the market for a new coat roll with something different other than black. Although, the world is your oyster in terms of shapes, sizes and lengths.


Leanne xx

Photography by Jordan Lee




Saturday, 9 April 2016

MOVEMENT









Bettina Liano jacket // similar

The sports luxe trend is one that seems is here to stay, with activewear ranges up to our ears. It is an amazing trend in the way it has made introduced comfort as a priority, so even on your lazy days you can feel like you never got out of your pajamas. 

The thick quality, tie detailing and restricted colour palette add a certain level of slick to such a comfortable and plain combo. An easy way to always dress up any combo though, is to throw on a structured jacket like this moto suede one. 


Leanne xx

Photography by Jordan Lee












Sunday, 27 March 2016

SUMMER FLING









Topshop dress // similar // similar
Zara boots // similar
Dior sunglasses 
Daniel Wellington watch


As the days get shorter and the sun set earlier you know summer is officially over. But let's milk the residues of the warmer weather with a floral number.

This wrap tie and frills give a flirty take on the classic summer piece - one that is comfortable, cool and easy to throw on. This style has popped up everywhere so you are bound to find the print that tickles your fancy. I paired with my trusty patent boots to give it the girly a bit more edge and also to make it more transitional going into autumn.



Leanne xx

Photography by Sahar Hamid

Saturday, 19 March 2016

BEAUTY EDIT: DAILY MAKEUP II



So it has been a while since I last talked beauty but now I'm finally here, bringing you an updated daily make up!







There are products that haven't changed and remained as staples that just cannot beat the rest. But you'll also find a few new things and added steps into my daily routine. You can check out my last daily make up post here - you will still find all the products that haven't changed listed below in the order that I use them. 

I have been loving the MAC paint pot in Groundwork to add definition without the hassle of blending. I just use my ring finger and work it all over the mobile lid and sometimes underneath on the bottom lash line. If I've got a few spare moments, I like to add the Nars eyeshadow over Groundwork for an effortless sheen. 

I have integrated a setting powder into my routine, as it helps my make up last even longer. I have previously left this step out because I prefer a dewy finish on the skin and there wasn't much but matte powders on the market. The Hourglass products, especially their powders, are definitely worth the hype and price point. It gives a beautiful satin finish on the skin, to match my foundation, sets my concealer in place, and provides a smooth surface for the rest of the face products. 

If there is anything I was to rave about, though, it has to be the new highlighter I picked up. This liquid Becca one does an amazing job at subtly highlighting and maintaining the natural dewiness and sheen to the skin. It also wears beautifully during the day. I like to put it on the tops of my cheekbones, down the bridge of my nose and on my Cupid's bow. 

For what may seem like a lot of steps, it is a crazy quick make up routine. It only manages to eat up about 10 minutes of my morning - but what's great about this look is that there are plenty of steps to cut out if you're in a rush!






1. FOUNDATION: Estee Lauder Double Wear Light SPF 10 in Intensity 3.0

2. EYEBROWS: Sportsgirl Rose Eyeshadow palette (similar)


5. BRONZER: Sleek Face Form 



These images have not been retouched.


Saba silk top
Lovisa sterling silver earrings


Leanne xx

Photography by Jordan Lee 

Friday, 11 March 2016

HOW TO: THE BODYCON DRESS










These images have not been retouched.


Seed heels // similar 
Daniel Wellington watch
Kirstin Ash necklace


I admit that I am often deterred by the bodycon/bandage dress, because they always seem to lack creativity  and leaves nothing to the imagination. So your general short and tight combination tends to do the opposite of excite me.

For this particular bodycon dress though, it was the that immediately attracted me - shock horror but black would have probably bored me. The midi length also offers a little more coverage than your average bodycon dress and the non-neutral neutral deep green colour helps one step out of the box but not too far. Pairing with black heels seemed like a no brainer but if you're more into your athleisure (or comfort) then throw on your fav white sneakers.


Leanne xx

Photography by Jordan Lee


Friday, 26 February 2016

LONDON GIRL







These images have not been retouched.


Daniel Wellington watch
Carpe Diem ring
Woolworths heels // similar


If there is any time to be inspired, it is during the bittersweet weeks of NYFW & LFW. With the constant influx of amazing photography, street style, it-girls and, of course, the upcoming trends, it's  the fashion girl's dream.

Taking a step towards the out-of-the-box mentality of fashion week, I picked up this jacket dress hybrid in the neutral of neutrals. What's fab though, is that it actually doubles up as a jacket, making it a great laying piece for when it gets chilly. The relaxed fit, means its super easy to style and you can wear it pretty much all year round.


Leanne xx

Photography by Jordan Lee

Saturday, 20 February 2016

HOW TO: THE WHITE SHIRT












Willow shirt // similar // similar
Ksubi denim shorts // similar // similar
Daniel Wellington watch
Kirstin Ash necklace


Now this has got to be one of my favourite shoots because you know that nothing gets me more excited than boots and shirts.

I managed to snag this shirt in the sales (so I apologise profusely you can't get your hands on it but I have linked some equally as great alternatives) and it really hits the spot. The buttons down the back, the curved hem, petite collar and exaggerated cuffs don't get you going then I'm not sure what will!
My advice is when looking for basic pieces like a white shirt, keep your eyes peeled that bit of edge, like the button back for instance, so it stays interesting without tipping over into the not-so-basic zone and more of a statement piece.

Keeping it sweet and short (literally), I paired it with my long time love, Ksubi shorts, with floral detailing and some fresh kicks to finish it off.


Leanne xx

Photography by Jordan Lee
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