Shopping Uniform

Whenever the mood for shopping strikes, I head to London to get a dose of retail therapy. I don my what-I-call "shopping uniform" because 1) if I'm uncomfortable, it shows on my face. Just ask the hubby  2) trying to remove and put on multiple layers plus tights each time I try on a garment snuffs out my motivation to shop within a nanosecond. 3) I have the attention span of a gnat so it's important that I remove any obstacle to a successful shopping expedition. Ask my girlfriends who are often forced to go on a coffee break every hour.

So here I have, thin layers of stretchy material that I can remove and put on with ease without smearing my make up or hair. Or, I can try on clothes without having to remove the layers. This is particularly helpful during the manic sale season when finding an available fitting room without having to queue for half an hour is more difficult than locating a Hermes Birkin.

Oh, and my trusted pair of kick ass Stuart Weitzman boots that I can walk all day without a smidgeon of pain. You're probably sick of seeing the same separates again and again. They're no brainer to mix and match which is also the reason why I'm wearing them to death.

Speaking of this Isabel Marant Bator coat from a couple of seasons ago, I don't understand why she stopped lining her current coats. The 100% cotton lining makes it one of my most comfortable coat. I'm dying to find out what everyone else has scored during the Boxing Day sale. What bargains have you picked up?

Outfit: Isabel Marant Bator coat, Zadig et Voltaire jumper, James Jeans skinnies, Stuart Weitzman boots and Hermes Ex Libris shawl

Sales Loot

I've been pretty restrained during the current winter sale. After spending the last few years maintaining some semblance of order in my wardrobe, I refuse to succumb to clutter. Unless it's on my list and ticks all the right boxes, I'm not going to shell out any money. I've come to the realization that it's easy to buy but a pain in the rear end to discard unwanted items. It pained me to see how much money I'd doled out for things that didn't fit, unflattering and purchased because they were heavily discounted. I doubt I'd put on/lose enough weight within days nor would my diminutive feet miraculously grow an extra inch or two.

I've been on a hunt for white t-shirts for quite sometime now. I found these T by Alexander Wang hanging on the rack at Harvey Nichols. The normal retail price for this particular t-shirt is an eye-watering £70. Good grief. Even at £35, my hands trembled when I handed over my hard earned cash. I've yet to find slouchy and long tees that have longer sleeves (I like to cover my bat wing arms) and a more flattering scooped neckline. The off white long sleeved tee from COS was a mere £8.50, certainly more palatable in comparison to the likes of Splendid, Vince, Isabel Marant or Alexander Wang. I take the opportunity to stock up on basics during the sale, particularly my favorite breton sweaters from Petit Bateau.

How can I resist these beautiful handmade notelets and envelopes from Smythson. The matching gold tissue inside the envelopes are painstakingly glued by hand at their factory in Wiltshire. I now have developed a full blown appreciation for these beautiful stationery.

These are inexpensive but inexplicably English products. I'm addicted to Fortnum & Mason fudge but these ones from Farrah's will suffice for now until I get a chance to go to their store. I wouldn't attempt to order online from F & M after the recent muck-up of a job they made with my order. Cath Kidston merchandise are largely made in China but what the heck, they're overly kitschy that they're almost adorable. I wouldn't pay £5 for a 5 meter roll but £2.50 is a bargain. Lil L has a social calendar that rival that of most socialites featured in the fashion magazines. I've come to dread the words birthday party so an extra roll of wrapping paper always come in handy.

Boxing Day sales

Two years ago, I attended my first ever Boxing Day sale in London. It was absolutely freezing with temperature hovering around 0 degree Celcius. The streets were heaving with shoppers with maniacal gleam in their eyes which scared the hell out of me. Lil L was 3 at the time and had to be strapped in her stroller at all times to avoid being crushed by the pandemonium that descended upon Oxford St. 10 hours and a lousy top from Gap (don't ask) later which I promptly discarded a few months later, I never attempted to join the crowd on Boxing Day ever again. By the way, this is not to be mistaken with my yearly pilgrimage to the insane Hermes sales in Paris which I thoroughly enjoy when I'm accompanied by my girlfriends who were brave enough to be dragged into the fanfare.

Just as well the trains and tube were on strike this year so I happily waited till the 27th before trying my luck. I avoided Selfridges during the day which I was informed by friends that it was pretty chaotic and utter mayhem but was far more pleasant after 6pm. There was a couple of stabbings which resulted in death just minutes from the departmental store on Boxing Day. Harrods was a no go territory for me. Packed to the gills and claustrophobic.

I went in search of discounted Isabel Marant clothes. There were plenty of stock at Liberty's with printed jeans including navajo (Renells) ones reduced by 50%. At Selfridges, the jumper which has enough holes to rival that of Swiss cheese was heavily reduced along transparent lurex dresses. 

Can you imagine this is Sloane St where all the top designers reside? There were hardly anyone on the pavement.

I enjoy gazing at the ostentatious window displays and admire the architecture more than the act of shopping itself. I adore these Tiffany & Co props.

You're absolutely right. I'm still rather obsessed with wreaths.

I've never truly appreciated quality stationery until recently. You can't get any better than Smythson.

I would love to see anyone attempt to wear AND walk in these Zanotti heels.

The only queues I saw were outside Prada and Gucci.

I adore these candles made in the shape of Bottega Veneta Intrecciato bags.

The lights at Foot Locker adjacent to Boots were dimmed as the store is shut for police investigation after a youth was stabbed to death on Boxing Day.

Christmas Gift giving

My family isn't very big on gift giving. I guess we're the stereotypical stoic and pragmatic Asian family where unless something is practical, it ain't worth giving. When I delved into my rather murky memories of  Christmases spent in Sarawak (Borneo),  I remembered it was more of a religious event. I went caroling with fellow Joyful Vanguard members (a Christian organization similar to Girls Guide), going to midnight mass at the local cathedral and visiting friends and family. Our Christmas tree was a rather sad looking spindly plant and the presents were empty boxes. My most exciting Christmas was spent with my then unmarried aunts where they whipped up cake after cake through the night with Christmas songs blasting in the background. An aunt took me to a shop just before midnight because we ran out of a vital ingredient for the cake she was baking. Their friends dropped by and I spent the night trying to stay awake so that I can eavesdrop on the grown ups' conversations.

On the other hand, Christmas in New Zealand is such a laidback festival that one could easily think that it was just another ordinary day if it wasn't for the incessant ringing of the cash registers. We would make the yearly pilgrimage to Ponsonby (a suburb in Auckland) to see the houses decorated with lights. Many years ago, we decided to succumb to the commercialization of Christmas and join in the buying frenzy. Well, when in Rome..... or in this case, when in New Zealand....  Boy, we were exhausted. The stress of buying presents for people who may or may not care for them. The practice was duly shelved until the arrival of the little ones. Whose parents were more excited than they were about the presents under the tree.

Fast forward to the present. I'm still somewhat pragmatic about presents. Lil L is beyond excited and spend the days counting the number of presents under the tree. She's at an age where she's happy with little Sylvanian toys, a book and a bag of sweets. We bought her a gigantic doll house last year (I was soooo excited!) but she preferred the cheapo presents instead. pfffft.....  I came up with a list of gift ideas that are neither expensive nor precious. I've finally discovered at a ripe age of 38 that the best presents in the world do not need to be expensive. What's important is the time we spend with our loved ones.

1. Fortnum & Mason fudge £10
I've spoken about them previously. I adore their fudge. These are laden with gazillion calories but heck, you only live once. A word of warning, do NOT order from their website as their customer services is one of the worst I've ever encountered. Missing items, late orders.... BUT do check out their store.

2. Neom organic candles  £37
Neom candles are completely natural and organic. None of those synthetic and poisonous nasties. I find them just as good as Diptyque if not better but far better value for money. Sold at Selfridges and their own website. Their 3 wick candles burn for up to 55 hours.


3. Potted Herbs
I'm a plant killer. What I'd love is to find potted herbs so I can leave them on the window sill and use them whenever I need to. Perfect for those who love to cook.


4. Smythson cards and envelopes £30
I've always found it really handy to have a card or two lying around. Just in case when you have to pen a thank you note or include a birthday card. Smythson is the ultimate place to shop for stationery.


5. Michael Buble Christmas CD £4.99
What's not to like about this dashing old soul crooner who reminds me of Frank Sinatra? It's the perfect music to play during Christmas. I don't know about you but I find it hard to think straight with loud pumping music but a beautiful vocal with a back up orchestra will do me just fine.


6. Bobble  £10.95
I don't like buying bottled water unless I'm in a bind. £1.50 for water? Seriously. I don't care if it came from some magical spring where unicorns reside but water is water. I don't like limescale in my water so these reusable filter in a recyclable bottle is perfect.

Layering

It has been freezing lately. I had to remind myself to stop moaning about it because the weather has been relatively mild in southern England compared to the other parts of the country. The same time last year, we were already knee deep in snow. Regardless I've been piling on the layers (and weight for extra insulation!). To avoid looking like the Michelin man, I've been keeping the layers relatively thin. I don't particularly enjoy feeling the duck that's currently roasting in my oven. Um...that's a rather bad analogy but you get my drift.

This is my indispensable Icebreaker vest that keeps me toasty and warm

Followed by a thin merino wool jumper. In this case, it's my new Zadig et Voltaire striped Madori sweater.






I love a structured jacket which makes me look and feel smart. This one's by Rag & Bone. I've paired it with my James Jeans skinny pants.

The accessories are just as important to keeping myself dry and warm. Here's my Hermes Kelly en Caleche which is fast becoming a favorite and well worn over the knee Stuart Weitzman boots.

Last but not least, the thick Gloverall coat to finish off the look

Zadig & Voltaire Sweater

My stash of Zadig et Voltaire clothes is growing albeit slowly as I tend to pick up a sweater here and a top there at their sales or outlet store. Yesterday, UPS came knocking to deliver the Madori sweater I'd ordered from their website. That'll teach me to be too hasty as the price came down again and this time they're offering free shipping (code: XMASGIFT). Pfffft....

On the flip side, the 100% merino wool is so soft even for someone like me who's usually allergic to wool. The narrower arm holes and the fit is fantastic for someone like me who has a petite frame. I've ordered the medium size as I prefer a more oversized fit.

I modeled for the hubby and Lil L. Hubby liked it but inquired, "haven't you got enough stripes?". Meanwhile, Lil L said, "mommy, is it new?". "Of course!" "mommy, it has holes everywhere!" "That's the design". Lil L listened with disbelief. "What?! They make new things look old?" *sigh*

25 minute Pizza

This is a quick and easy "recipe" for pizzas that require very little work and washing up. It was such a hit so I thought I'd share it on my blog.

A few days ago, I had Lil L and her 2 buddies from school came over for a playdate and dinner. All 3 are fairly opinionated. One wanted olives, another hated it and the third wouldn't even try it. Lil L would only eat green veggies, one wouldn't touch the darn thing unless you bribe her and the third's veggie repertoire extends only to spinach. I decided that the best way to deal with these picky eaters was to get them to make their own dinner.

I found these amazing hand stretched and doused with extra virgin olive oil garlic pizza base from Sainsbury's which contains absolutely no preservatives nor chemicals. These are by far, the best I'd ever eaten and cost only £1.70. I made my own tomato base by sautee-ing a couple of garlic cloves and then chuck in the passata and a squeeze of tomato puree. Season with sea salt and freshly ground pepper. A quick simmer and it was all done within 10 minutes.

Before you do anything, preheat the oven to 220 C or maximum on grill.The preparation took only minutes as it was a case of opening packets. You can have an array of different ingredients and the kids can just pick and choose what they want to go on their pizza. Cut up some cherry tomatoes, rocket leaves, red peppers, olives, salami, pepperoni, tear up balls of mozzarella. I sliced up some leftover sausages. Voila, it's over to the kids. By the way, I refuse to use those disgusting processed mozzarella.

The kids chowed down the pizza within minutes. Even Lil L's friend who is by far, the pickiest eater I've ever met had seconds. Dessert was satsumas and golden kiwi fruit. All in all, it was a balanced meal and very little washing up to do. I'm a firm believer that pizzas are meant to be eaten with your  hands. This is perfect for parties or entertaining a large group of people without spending tons of money. Furthermore, these pizzas taste far better than the ones from restaurants.

Leftover ingredients can be made into a simple salad. If you use the freshest vegetables you can get your hands on, the dressing should be kept simple. Just enough to bring out the taste of the vegetables. All it requires is a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a sprinkling of sea salt and freshly ground pepper.

Ready in minutes meal ideas

The great thing about working from home is the proximity to the kitchen. The downside to working from home is the proximity to the kitchen. While I'm pounding away on the keyboard, it's oh so easy to get tempted by the pantry and fridge. In fact, it's probably the only exercise I get now that it's constantly cold and wet outside. One consolation though. I sometimes jog to my kitchen which takes me all of 3 seconds.

Lately, I haven't been all that impressed with the local cafes and restaurants. They charge far too much for rather average meals. In fact, a local self professed French type cafe served me a single slice of stale bread dipped in oil with a few soggy strawberries on the side that my god-daughter stole from my plate and promptly spat out. That was the worst French toast I'd ever had in my life.

The other day, I was starving (a common occurrence in winter) and only had leftovers in the pantry.  There was a bit of stale baguette, week old lemons, bacon and eggs. I decided to make my own version of french toast. Heat up the oven and grill the bacon. Beat an egg, pour in 3-4 tablespoons of semi-skimmed milk, grate half a lemon (be sure not to grate into the white rind as it's very bitter) and a teensy bit of vanilla extract. Soak slices of baguette in egg mixture for a few minutes.

Heat up a pan and melt a knob of butter on low to medium heat. Be careful not to burn the butter. Fry both sides of the bread. Keep your eyes on the bread as they cook rather quickly. Silly ol' me went off and did something. I barely had seconds to save my lunch. Open a can of peaches and toss a few slices on top of the french toast. Now drench it with maple syrup (the real stuff). Mmmmmmmmm................ Note the crowded plate. I was ravenous.






This was yesterday's lunch. It was a little bit of this and a little bit of that. I'd bought these yummy olives from the market the day before. The cherry tomatoes were super crunchy and sweet. Perfect for reminding me of summer. Slice up a ball of mozzarella, season with Maldon sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. I found these really delicious pizza garlic bread and they were just as good as the ones I'd tasted in Italy. I toasted them quickly and voila, I've got myself a meal. That was a pretty massive plate which I managed to devour within minutes. I think I might start jogging from my desk to the bedroom and back again to burn a few calories.

Fortnum & Mason Fudge

I had Mandi of Find Me a Muse come round for lunch at my place for our weekly catch up session. It's more a case of giggling and laughing non-stop while stuffing ourselves silly. It was also an excuse for me to molest her new Isabel Marant Willow sneakers and ogle at her amazing sweaters, also by Isabel Marant.

Photo credit: Find Me a Muse

She brought along a present for me. A bad bad idea. She was incredulous to discover that I, a foodie who visits London like it's my second home have never ever walked into Fortnum & Mason. Sure, I'd ordered from them before but I was too much of a coward to attempt a visit to the famed store in the weekends. Unless I'm armed with pepper spray, spikes on my elbows and helmet to brave the crowds, I wouldn't dare to take a step inside. Mandi insisted I had to try their handmade fudge. Resistance was futile after the first bite. A single slab probably has more than a million calories. Apparently, it was made using a traditional recipe  where the mixture is still boiled in copper pans to this day. Whatever. Hubby, Lil L and I ravaged the box and nearly started World War 3 fighting for the last piece. I've just placed an order for more. As gifts. If I managed not to gobble them up before wrapping them up.

Fortnum & Mason Traditional Fudge, price starting at £5.75

A glimpse of Christmas in a little English town

Forgive me if I sound like a little kid on sugar high. Celebrating Christmas in winter is still a fairly new thing for me. I'm going all out this year with the wreath, Christmas stocking, roast turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffings, mulled wine, mince pie etc. It's usually too darn hot to think about roast anything and no one I know drinks mulled wine back in New Zealand.

The town centre is packed and heaving in the weekends with many out of town visitors converging there for Christmas shopping. The weekend and Christmas markets are in full force. The ATM machines ran out of cash. Yup. I'm not kidding. The buskers are taking advantage of festivities hoping to earn big bucks from the crowds. We went out for a walk to check out the beautiful wreaths hanging on the doors and Christmas decorations. There's a long queue by the ice skating rink.

It always amazes me that despite the hustle and bustle, one only needs to walk down a lane parallel to the main street and suddenly, it's so quiet one can hear a pin drop. That's the advantage of living in town. One is close to all the amenities yet you get the serenity of a suburb. 

4 Basic Winter Necessities

It's cold, wet and gloomy outside every single day. Just in case I'm making you feel rather depressed with my rather lackadaisical comment, sorry. Looking chic is the farthest thing on my mind at the moment. All I can think about is staying warm and dry. Lately, my daily outfits are looking like a uniform because I'm wearing the same 4 articles every single day. Here are my 4 basic ingredients to staying dry.

1. A hat with wide brim
Here's the thing about hats. With the right one on your head, you'll look chic. It will also add a certain pizazz to your ensemble. Umbrellas are pretty useless here because a strong gust of wind would break it in an instant. They keep my glasses dry and stop me from catching a head cold. Most importantly, there's no need to lug or hold an umbrella, an activity which I detest.

Christy's Chepstow hat

2. Shawl
I can't live without a shawl. The weather in the UK is so unpredictable. It can be hot one minute and freezing the next. I always get it wrong anyway so now I just carry a shawl in my bag. My meagre collection of Hermes shawls have kept me warm for the last 3.5 years.

Hermes Kelly en Caleche Cashmere shawl

3. Long coat
Hubby bought me an indestructible Gloverall duffle coat. I believe it was a limited edition and sold in small quantities at selected retailers. It was originally designed for the navy. Mine's a deadweight but it's wind and water resistant. I prefer winter coats to be just above my knee to keep me cosy and dry.

4. Over the Knee Boots
I'm sick of being splashed by idiotic drivers who screech down narrow lanes as if they're competing for the Grand Prix. I pair them with skinnies and long winter coats so that I'm virtually waterproof.

Stuart Weitzman Over the Knee boots