Author Archives: Shloka

The Best Instagram Worthy Spots For Breakfast in London

THAT MORNING COFFEE..

Editors Note: For my favourite Instagram Worthy Cafes in London, see here.

Breakfast is probably my favourite meal of the day and I always look forward to a super yummy one! I love going to try out new restaurants, especially when you’re luring me with a solid french toast and a good cup of coffee. Now, although many of you are probably expecting me to list the likes of Elan Cafe etc. in this post, I actually wanted to share places where I actually enjoy the food AND that can be quite Instagram friendly too! If the coffee isn’t good though, it isn’t worth the gram, right?

So here are some spots where you can still get that perfect Instagram shot, without sacrificing on a super yummy start to your day as well.

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Step inside our light filled and tranquil restaurant 💕 . . . 📷@rojdagungor_ 💕 #interior #aok #kitchen #restaurant #london #marylebone #happymonday #spring #blossom #tree

A post shared by A.O.K Kitchen & Bakery (@aok.kitchen) on Apr 29, 2019 at 4:29am PDT

AOK KITCHEN

One of the newest openings in Marylebone, AOK Kitchen is somewhere that looks amazing while serving up amazing dishes. Everything is made without refined sugar and the most minimal use of dairy so if you are intolerant to anything like me (I’m dairy intolerant!), then this is the best place to go enjoy a fabulous meal that doesn’t taste like it’s been made with substitutes! The interiors are also so warm and welcoming , especially if you can nab the corner table with the beautiful indoor flower tree.

I highly recommend their pastries, their banana muffin and the pancakes.

Photo Spot: Inside, by their flower tree.

FISCHERS

I feel like Fischer’s is not as well known as it’s counterparts, like the Wolseley (also a fab spot!) but the breakfast is equally good! The food is super comforting, with lots of yummy swiss classics that are a hearty start to your day. My favourite thing about this place though is their coffee! I grab it to go as a treat sometimes! Try and grab a spot outside if the weather is lovely and enjoy people watching on one of their little gold tables.

Photo spot: Outside by their quaint little tables

MAYFAIR COMPTOIR

Another small hidden gem in the heart of Mayfair, Mayfair Comptoir is a stone’s throw away from Selfridges. Although the breakfast menu is minimal, they have all your favourite things and they know how to do them really well! The coffee is also super (are you sensing a theme with me and my morning coffee?) and I particularly love their pancakes and their croissants.

Photo spot: Outside with their Parisian style seating

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Plans this weekend? Celebrate Easter right here at #MortimerHouseKitchen in our Conservatory. Kids under 8 eat for free all weekend 🐰

A post shared by Mortimer House Kitchen (@mortimerhousekitchen) on Apr 19, 2019 at 9:37pm PDT

MORTIMER HOUSE

Mortimer House is part members club, part restaurant and is open through the day. With lots of natural light streaming in and many spots for you to get comfortable with your laptop/notebook/friend, it’s the perfect spot for some breakfast! I particularly love their eggs and all their juices. If it’s a nice day, I also much prefer to sit outside!

Photo spot: Anywhere! It’s so photogenic!

HARRY’S DOLCE VITA

Although this isn’t the original Harry’s from Venice, Harry’s Dolce Vita in Knightsbridge and now also in Marylebone and Mayfair, is still really good! I am a huge fan of their eggs and their entire breakfast menu is drool worthy for sure! Try to get there early though as it starts to fill up as the weather gets better!

Photo spot: Outside for that Dolce Vita vibe! Their bathroom is also quite cute for a mirror selfie!

Stay tuned for when I add more to this list and please do drop your London suggestions below in the comments!

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You Don’t Want To Miss Out On This Summer Trend For The Perfect Outfit…

SET IT UP

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Photos by Alise Jane

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Some of you call them matching sets, others call them a coord, regardless of what you refer to them as, they are very much back as one of the spring-summer 2019 trends! I always find that one thing you guys are always looking for is summer outfit inspo, specifically casual summer outfits that are easy to wear and easy to put together. That’s why coord sets are such a good option; they literally require no effort because the outfit combination is already made for you! Makes sense why they are a street style favourite right?

The matching set I’m wearing in today’s outfit is from Maje, one of my all-time favourite brands. I fell in love with the blue and I loved that the jacket was not a blazer. The femininity of the shorts with the boxy jacket creates the perfect contrast! I paired it with a silk cami underneath but you can also just wear a plain white or black t-shirt!

The coord set is not the only spring summer 2019 trend I’m exploring in this outfit, I’ve also got another favourite on; hair accessories. Hair clips and bows are a huge trend and I have a feeling that they will be here to stay for a while. As I build up my collection of hair bands, pearl clips and more, I wanted to show you how it’s really easy to wear such a feminine accessory with any outfit. Although this set is quite trendy, the femininity of my Chanel hair clip works super well with it. I’ve linked to some more affordable options for hair bows below! You can also see my post all about some of the coolest hair clips out there, right here.

If you live in a warmer country, don’t shy away from a matching set. You can always drape the jacket/blazer over your t-shirt to avoid the heat and still get the same effect! So tell me, will you be trying any of these trends?

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Maje Blue Jacket

Maje Blue Shorts

Similar jacket

Similar matching bottoms

Valentino Studded Black Sandals

Similar sandals

Prada Bag

Chanel Hair clip (similar)

That’s why coord sets are such a good option; they literally require no effort because the outfit combination is already made for you!

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Maje Blue Jacket

Maje Blue Shorts

Similar jacket

Similar matching bottoms

Valentino Studded Black Sandals

Similar sandals

Prada Bag

Chanel Hair clip (similar)

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The Best Concealers of 2019 That Will Give You The Best Skin This Summer

CONCEAL

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Whenever someone asks me how to cover up dark circles (which people ask me a lot by the way!) my answer is always the same; you need a really good concealer. I’m not one to wear foundation every day. I usually rely on concealer and a great lipstick which is why having a good one is so important to me especially when I have a day full of meetings, events and shoots. With so many different options on the market, it can be hard to sort through the noise. Luckily for you, as someone who has suffered from acne scarring, spots and dark circles, uneven skin is no surprise to me. I’ve shortlisted some of my favourite concealers of all time that will actually do what any good concealer should do; cover up imperfections! From Charlotte Tilbury to NARS, you’re going to find one you love.

NARS RADIANT CREAMY CONCEALER

I never thought I could love a concealer as much as I love my NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer. It has quickly become a hero product for me, and one that I use almost every day. So much so, that I’ve already bought my second one since first trying it out in March. The consistency is light and easy to apply but the coverage is next level! It doesn’t feel like you are wearing concealer. I can rely on this concealer to instantly brighten my face without it looking cakey or made up. My favourite part about this concealer is how natural it looks and how well it blends with my skin, evening out my skin tone and covering up any imperfections. I literally look flawless!

I wear shade Biscuit

[This concealer was initially gifted to me by NARS for a paid promotion however all thoughts and opinions remain my own]

CHARLOTTE TILBURY MAGIC AWAY CONCEALER

Not long ago I did a Youtube video about this concealer with my true initial reaction. (Should I start my YT up again?) This concealer is exactly what it promises to be, MAGIC. I was shocked at how well it covered up not only my spots but my dark circles. It immediately brightened my entire complexion and it lasts really well through the day. Thanks to its sponge applicator, it doesn’t crease under the eyes when applying, letting you really blend it in.

[This concealer was gifted to me by Charlotte Tilbury however all thoughts and opinions remain my own]

DR. BARBARA STURM SPOT TREATMENT

Okay, now this is not strictly the best concealer out there but it is one of the best spot treatments that is tinted. Available in three shades, this new formula from skincare powerhouse, Dr. Barbara Sturm, is all about combatting acne and fighting off redness and spots while covering them up. Although the coverage is not the best and you will need to apply another concealer on top, I still wanted to include this in the list because of how well it fights and heals acne.

BARE MINERALS COMPLETE COVERAGE SERUM

Bare Minerals was one of the first makeup brands I ever started using and the fact that I still use them today is a testament to their amazing product. Their concealer is one of my longtime favourites because finding a perfect match for your skin is so easy. A seamless blend into your skin and the coverage is high! I also love that it’s not as expensive as some of the other brands but still does what it promises.

CHANEL LE CORRECTEUR

The Chanel concealer is one of the newest additions to my concealer collection but it wasn’t long before it made this shortlist. Just like all the ones I listed above, it’s perfect for covering up imperfections quickly. My favourite thing about this concealer is how lightweight the formula is. It feels like there is nothing on your skin! I love when something is light but still does its job!

Do you have any questions about how to apply concealer? Comment below with your hero concealer!

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How To Wear A Tweed Jacket Casually For A Chic Summer Outfit

TWEED
TASTIC

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Tweed jacket and tweed headband kindly landed by Kezmay London for this shoot. This post also contains affiliate links. This does not affect your experience in any way. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.

Photos by Alise Jane

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I’m not sure if you’ve heard the news but the royal baby has arrived and I felt like there was no better time than now to share an outfit with a bit of a royal touch; the classic tweed jacket. (Does anyone have any ideas on what his name will be?) When it comes to the classic pieces, there are a few that every woman strives to add to her wardrobe in her lifetime. From the ultimate black bag to the perfect kitten heels to, of course, the infamous tweed jacket. I’m all about taking these classic luxe pieces and styling them for a cute and casual summer outfit. Today I’m tackling the most classic of them all.

Now, although most of us lust after the Chanel tweed jackets (literally the mother of all jackets!!), we can’t always spare the £££ to get one. Luckily for you, there’s a new brand around that’s here to get you that Chanel girl look without the price tag. I was recently introduced to brand Kezmay London and fell in love with their tweed pieces. The brand sources its material from the same factory that provides Chanel with all the tweed for its jackets as well. Everything is handmade and created with love in London and if you were looking for something even more special, they do custom fittings and custom design sessions. Pretty cool right?

The key to styling a tweed jacket while still maintaining cool girl status is to use it to elevate your favourite everyday basics. For a summer look that screams chic while still staying trendy, I paired this pink tweed jacket with a white shirt dress. I wanted to let the jacket really shine through so I paired it with this matching Kezmay tweed headband (HOW IN TREND?) and my Prada kitten heels (similar listed below). You could also try pairing a jacket like this with a t-shirt and your favourite summer mini skirt. I would make sure though that the only pattern in the outfit is the tweed and I would keep the rest of the look minimal. I’ve linked to some high street versions of the tweed jacket below as well, ready for you to shop!

So, are you ready to live your Chanel girl dreams? Let me know how you would wear a tweed jacket! PS: You can check out Kezmay London’s Instagram here. DM them for orders!

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Kezmay London Boxy Tweed Jacket

Similar Tweed Jacket here and here and here

Kezmay London Tweed headband

White Shirt Dress (similar)

Prada strappy sandals

Similar sandals

Chanel Gabrielle’s Backpack

The brand sources its material from the same factory that provides Chanel with all the tweed for its jackets as well.

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Kezmay London Boxy Tweed Jacket

Similar Tweed Jacket here and here and here

Kezmay London Tweed headband

White Shirt Dress (similar)

Prada strappy sandals

Similar sandals

Chanel Gabrielle’s Backpack

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3 Spring/Summer 2019 Shoe Trends You Need To Try Right Now

Image via Pinterest

FANCY FEET

The three best summer shoe trends you are going to be wearing everyday from chunky sandals to strappy sandals.

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It’s time to put your best foot forward this summer, and I mean that literally, with these 2019 summer shoe trends that I just can’t get enough of! Last year, dad sneakers took the fashion world by storm and were seen on the feet of almost every Instagrammer and blogger out there (except me.. I never got into that trend). This year, they are being replaced by a few more wearable and summery trends that I am falling hard for. From strappy sandals to chunky sandals, there is something for everyone with these trends!

Below you will find my top 3 summer 2019 trends for your shoe closet! I’ve also talked about where you can get them, and how you can style them! Don’t forget to tell me which is your favourite and do share any of your styling photos with me on Instagram! I love seeing you guys recreate these looks!

CHUNKY SANDALS

I never thought that I would be, but I’m loving this chunky sandal trend. There is something really retro and cool about this trend and I am so excited because I recently got my hands on a Prada pair. Although I haven’t had the weather to pull them out just yet, I have already come up with some really exciting ways to style them. They might seem very “dad sandal” esque but they can actually look very luxe and high fashion. Pair them with your favourite summer dress and ladylike bag for an extra high fashion feel.

STRAPPY SANDALS

This trend is probably the opposite of the chunky sandals trend for summer 2019. What I love about this is how ladylike and elegant these shoes are. They literally work with any outfit because they are so classic and chic and are actually a pair you should have in your closet no matter if they are “trending” or not. Pair them with jeans and a shirt like I have here or you can even make your favourite pair of summer shorts or skirt more city like with a pair of these. Perfect for literally any occasion, I would say this is the most timeless of the summer shoe trends.

SUMMER SLIDES

It all started when THOSE Christian Dior slides started to take over our Instagram feeds. Summer slides are not new and in fact, much like strappy sandals, are almost always something to have for the summer. This year though they are really trending, with all kinds of variations coming about. From embellished slides, to ones with buckles, there is literally one to go with every outfit so make sure you get your hands on a super sleek pair. You can pair your slides with a pair of Bermuda shorts and a chic blouse for the ultimate summer look, or even with a lovely shirt dress!

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Which trend is your favourite? How would you wear it!

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TSS Update: May

Happy

Guys – It’s May! Do you know what that means? It means that summer is one day closer and it’s not long before all we are wearing are cute summer outfits, strappy sandals and chic straw bags. Who’s ready? I know I am! Other than spring, summer is my favourite season. What can I say, I’m all about the sunshine! I must admit that I did feel like I was in a funky headspace after my birthday. I felt exhausted and I know that reflected in my content!

This month, I’m back and feeling better and more focused. One of the reasons is because I am beyond touched to have been nominated for Blogger of the Year by Blogosphere! It is the first nomination of my career and I have been nominated alongside some really amazing candidates! You can vote here (and check out their super cool blogs as well!) The ceremony is at the end of this month so fingers crossed!

On a more personal update, it was really amazing to be spend time with my family this past month. I feel like time with family can be so refreshing and can really help me feel a bit more energised and get my head back in the game. With constant changes in algorithms and platforms, it’s easy to start to feel overwhelmed and loose sight of why you started in the first place. This past month I reminded myself that I was here to INSPIRE you with my style and beauty advice; all about that laidback luxe! Which by the way is a term I have seen pop up in a lot of places now! You saw it here first tho!

Happy May Guys – I hope the sun stays shining! x

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Don’t be ashamed, we all have one of the following in our bag: wrappers/receipts/occasional tissue you were too lazy to throw away. 🙊 Once I got rid of all of those things, here’s whats left in my bag right now. I’ve been wearing this @leparmentier.paris bag on repeat because I love the pop of colour it gives all my spring outfits! What’s in your bag right now? A quick note about some of the beauty in my bag; I’ve just started using the new Dr. Barbara Sturm Clarifying line and her spot treatment is actually amazing and really helping me manage my break outs. I’ve also become an Estee Lauder addict especially with their Double Wear range; both these ranges have really helped me get my glow back! Have you tried either? 🌟 #forzieri #whatsinmybag

A post shared by The Silk Sneaker (@thesilksneaker) on Apr 26, 2019 at 5:01am PDT

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What could make your Monday better other than an outfit you love and cherry blossoms? A bank holiday Monday of course 🙊 How are you spending your day?

A post shared by The Silk Sneaker (@thesilksneaker) on Apr 22, 2019 at 2:58am PDT

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What I’ve Added To My Closet

The High Street Find

Floral Puff Sleeve Mini Dress

The Luxury Must Have

Strappy Sandals

The Beauty Buy

Dr. Barbara Sturm Clarifying Spot Treatment

The Must Read Pieces You’ve Missed…

25 Things You Didn’t Know About Me

What My Battle With Acne Has Taught Me

How To Be A Stylish Traveler

What do you have planned this month?

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What I Have Saved On Instagram; April

The Best Beauty Brands For Acne Prone Skin

ACNE FREE

This post contains affiliate links. This does not affect you in any way. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.

This post contains gifted items from Boscia and Avene

If you’ve experienced acne, you know the anxiety of trying out a new product. Will it suit my skin? Will it make me break out? More than that, you also know the anxiety of getting an unexpected breakout and not knowing how to deal with it. Don’t even get me started on the aftermath of finding the best treatments to treat acne scars. (PS: If you need an easy overnight acne treatment, check out this homemade one here)

If you remember reading about my skin journey, then you’ll know that I’ve done a lot of trial and error with a lot of different brands and products over the past few years. Some of them went really well (like the ones I’m about to list below) and some of them went really bad… (Drunk Elephant did not work well for me….and I hear I’m not the only one?) So, here are some brands that I know will always work. I’ve also highlighted the key products for different concerns.

PERRICONE MD

Perricone MD was one of the first brands I tried that I felt actually made a difference to my skin. I have immediately become obsessed and I tend to fall back on their products when my skin is very dull. Some of my favourite products from them are:
Pore Minimising Toner: Infused with Salicylic acid, which is amazing for controlling breakouts, I love using this toner every morning and night. It controls any breakouts I feel coming up and makes sure that my skin is ultra clean before I apply anything else.

Nutritive Cleanser: This is one of my favourite face washes! It’s mild and easy on the skin and still takes out all your make up

I also love their micellar water – it’s amazing for double cleansing.

BOSCIA

Boscia is a brand that is all about using natural ingredients. Their products are cruelty-free and vegan and are amazing for your skin. A lot of the time acne prone skin is also incredibly sensitive. The Boscia products take out any anxiety out of your skin routine and you’ll feel amazing after using their products. They have activated charcoal in them which helps to bring out any unwanted impurities in the skin and improve the overall texture and brightness.

Luminizing Black Mask: This mask is a peel-off mask and I love that when you pull it off you can see all your blackheads and white heads come out. Really purifying for your skin

Detoxifying Black Cleanser: This cleanser has a warming sensation on your skin as it cleans it but really gets all the dirt and dust off. I love using this at the gym! Makes my skin feel fresh and clean.

Revitalising Black Charcoal Hydrating Gel: I find that gels work better than creams in the summer and this gel is great for soothing your skin while working on those acne scars!

DR BARBARA STURM

This is a new addition to my skincare routine but I’ve become a huge fan very quickly because I can see the results in my skin already! She just released a new Clarifying line which specifically targets acne prone skin.

Clarifying Face Cream: I have been using this amazing cream every day and I swear it makes me look like I have FAB skin.

Clarifying Serum: This is really lovely as well for soothing redness and helping soothe any breakouts.

SPF Drops: This is a great way to protect your skin from any effects of the sun and pollution. It’s one of the few spfs that don’t actually clog my skin and make me break out more. Sunscreen can be a pain but this one is great.

Clarifying Spot Treatment: This has a slight tint in it but also has tea tree that is a great way to get rid of any acne that may be popping up.

AVENE

I sometimes find it hard to trust the mainstream brands I find at the local pharmacy but when you reach for a French pharmacy brand, you know you’re in good hands, especially when it’s Avene. All their products are infused with their avene spring water and their Cleanance line is perfect for acne scars and breakouts.

Avene Cleanance Mask
This mask is such a great exfoliator and helps to take away any dead skin and dull skin. I used it all summer long when I was in Italy and it made a huge difference to my skin and helped me combat any potential breakouts from all the dairy and sugar I was eating.

Avene Cleanance Expert Treatment
Blackheads are the most annoying thing and it is so tempting to pull them out. I would always recommend a mask like the Boscia one I mentioned but there isn’t always time for that. That’s why I always have this Avene treatment with me. It’s great at getting rid of them in a flash.

doesn’t make your hair stiff but still manages to hold the style! Perfect to keep your curls in place for any special event.

Do you have any questions about these products? Leave me a comment below!

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How To Always Be The Best Dressed Woman In The Room

ELEG
ANCE

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This post contains affiliate links but this does not affect you in any way. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.

Photos by Alise Jane

I find that when I love my outfit, and I feel like the best dressed walking down the street (even if it is to Waitrose), my mood is better, I feel more confident and I’m all round happier. There is something to be said for dressing to impress and today I wanted to share with you some tips I’ve learnt for always creating an elegant outfit. When I talk about dressing to impress, I don’t just mean what other people think of your look. I’m focusing on how you feel in what you are wearing. After all, if you feel elegant in your gym gear, it’s going to look better than someone who feels horribly uncomfortable in a ball gown. At the end of the day, attitude shows! Regardless, there are a few little things to keep in mind when creating a chic look. Since we are getting ready to welcome summer, I’m going to focus these tips on creating a trendy, yet elegant summer outfit, that will guarantee you’re the best dressed woman in the room every time. Who’s ready?

1. Don’t be afraid of statements
There is something great about adding that extra touch or statement detail to your outfit. More often than not that is what will set your look aside from the rest. For this look, my Chriselle Lim Collection dress has an adjustable slit. Depending on the occasion I can raise or lower it and it really can make a statement while still being subtle and elegant. Another great way to make a statement is by rocking the latest trends of the season; you can read all about the ones I think that are worth wearing right here.

2. Focus on accessories
Accessories are another way to add a statement to your look, but also a great way to compliment your entire look. If you decide to wear jeans and a t-shirt it simply looks casual. Add in a chic pair of pumps, a beautifully shaped bags and some cat eye sunglasses and your outfit has just gone from casual to elegant. Never underestimate the power of good accessories. On that note, your accessories don’t have to be designer to achieve that luxe look. I’ve linked to a more affordable version of my shoes that will still give you that elegant effect.

3. Natural is Key
I always think that there is something to be said for a natural makeup look. I always find that it’s much more elegant to look like you have a natural glow. I like to keep my makeup to the minimal with concealer and a bit of blush and a beautiful lipstick. If you’re on the hunt for a timeless nude lipstick, you can check out my post on it here.

What are your tips for always being the best dressed?

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Chriselle Lim Collection Olive Polka Dot Dress

Prada Shoes (similar)

Dior Handbag

Cat Eye Sunglasses (similar)