....Barbra Streisand

Model Cara Delevingne

Definitly one to watch

I think she is going to be a pretty famous face soon!

Inkwell and Ivy....

Gosh, how beautiful are these bags

I am love with them

They remind me of old Hollywood

Where you would see pictures of all the starlets with their glamorous carry cases

So perfect

I'm green with envy at Blake Lively's it looks amazing

You can buy them here at Inkwell and Ivy's amazing store

And you can take a peek at all the other goodies they have on offer too!

Picture 1- Positano Grande- £350

Picture 2- Positano Duffle Brown - £225



This is just ......ah so perfect

One of the most beautiful things my ears have heard in a while

I now officially want to marry the guy in this video

Is that too strong a reaction to have just because you like someones voice?

You know the way you used to get when you were little and a new boyband came out and you loved them and their songs so much that you couldn't just buy their album

Oh no, it was like you had to pick out your favourite member(and you had to do it fast or one of your friends might pick the one that you like, and we all know that two people can't get imaginary married to the same person, right?) and declare that you WOULD marry him, against all odds the 20+ years age gap and the fact that well, they were in a world famous boyband and you were still in primary school

Well i kinda just felt that same urge to declare my love after hearing this

So.... i think it means i like this alot!

Have a listen and let me know what you think?

Are you also ready to declare your love for this man's voice,hehe!

Song Atlantic City originally by Bruce Springsteen

Performed in this video by Kyle and Danielle

Kyle is from the band Typhoon and Danielle is from Congratulations (once Eskimo and Sons)

Produced/Directed by Matthew Thomas Ross of Neighborhood Films.

Heidi Klum Brings Her Skills....

Check out the range here- Amazon.co.uk

The X Factor...

This is Sophia Wardman from the girlband Belle Amie from this years X Factor

I have to put my hands up and admit that i am really not X Factors biggest fan

Nearly all the act's bore me and don't even get me started on the judges.... 

Although i do watch most of it as i think its such a monster of a show it's a little hard to escape it here in the UK

But i had noticed this girls style from the start

I really like the way she mixes things together and she seems to be as big a fan as i am of a granny knit

Which can only be a good thing, right?

I love her leopard print trousers too

So if her band makes it through to the final I wonder if we will see the birth of a new style star

I'm thinking a more mature version of Pixie Lott's style, no?

So, who are you all backing to win this year?

I hope it's Rebecca or Aiden I do think they both are kinda quirky and have amazing voices!

The Princess....

Venus Zine's Fall 2010 cover shoot with Zoe Kravitz

By Ramona Rosales

She has got such amazing natural style

I love that the clothes she wears always look like she has worn them hundreds of times before

although they have probably just been unwrapped from the store 5 mins before she put them on....

But i think that's what having style is, right?

It's about being able to make looking good really easy

to kind of have an air of nonchalance about the way you dress

(irrespective of how long you have actually taken to get ready)

To me that is what real style is!

So take a watch/listen to this video

It is so pretty and i LOVE this song

It's by Zoe's band Elevator Fight and It's called Little Ghost

Oh and I have finally joined Spotify

So if you have any playlists you would like to send me then i would love to have a listen, i always love hearing new music

So if I'm right in thinking (I'm new with it, bear with me)

all you have to know is my Spotify name thing-y

which is - isthisreallife

Shake it like a Polaroid picture....

There is something so special about Polaroid pictures

They capture more than the subject they take a picture of you and your surroundings

un-edited, not re-touched or photo shopped

They take you just as your really are

You've not deleted ten pictures to get that perfect shot

Because chances are the picture wont look professional

Maybe no one is facing the right way

someone who you don't know might have even walked by in the back ground and I'm sure the sun's glare will make the light funny

But isn't that what it's about

sometimes perfect doesn't look like what we thought it would

it ends up being better than we could have imagined it

better than if we had set it up and posed and made sure the right settings are on the camera and that we have the right mega pixels so it captures our best sides

When you look back at a Polaroid picture you remember the moment.

I think digital cameras are amazing and part of this blog wouldn't be able to happen without them

So i am so thankfully they exist 

But i think sometimes it's important to remember that most of the time when we take pictures

of each other, of a place or an event we take the picture so we can always have a visual of our memories of that time

So being able to delete and delete and delete picture after picture off our digital screens  because someone is pulling a funny face or had red eye kinda loses the point of why we take the picture in the first place, no?

My first ever camera was a Polaroid

and recently (what inspired this post) i found some old pictures i took

I was really really young when i took them so they have thumbs here and people heads cut off there

but i couldn't stop laughing when i saw the pictures because even though the actual shot wasn't anything special the picture itself was because even now so many years later i still got the feeling of that instant when the image was captured and it made me laugh because it made me remember why we were all laughing in the photo

And that is exactly why i love Polaroid cameras and photos

The instant gratification they give you is just epic and the fact that 10 years down the line you can look at one and still feel the time and place you took it when you look at is something i have never had with any other camera

I tried to get new film for my old Polaroid but unfortunately they discontinued it

I would love the new version (pictured above)

I think they look so cute and i hear the pictures are meant to look even better than before

Have any of you got one i would love to know what you think of it?

So there are my Polaroid memories i would love to hear yours

Are you as much of a fan as i am?

Check out the Polaroid site here

Interview with Nails Inc. founder Thea Green....

1. As a young budding entrepreneur myself I find it so inspiring to hear that you stared Nails Inc. at just 23 years old. Looking back, do you think that you done the right thing starting your company so early on?

I think that the best thing about starting a business very young is that youth brings an amazing confidence and can do attitude which is very infectious and builds momentum in a start up company.

2. You studied Public Relations and Journalism at the London College of Fashion. Did you plan on having a career in the fashion industry and if so, do you think you would have enjoyed it as much as the job you do today?
I worked in fashion – styling and writing for a few years before I set up nails inc. I am passionate about fashion and beauty and feel that I still work with very fashion forward people and products.

3. You worked at Tatler magazine, what was that experience like, was the fashion industry anything like you expected it to be?
The fashion industry was both exciting and challenging, I don’t think you ever realise just how fast paced it can be! Its an incredible industry just like the beauty industry - I feel very lucky to have worked in both.

4. I read that it was seeing all the new nails bars opening up in America that gave you the idea for Nails Inc. At what point did it go from being just a good idea to deciding to make it an actual business?
After we did a round of focus groups and the customer feedback was unanimous and overwhelming.
The initial idea required a lot of research and after having conversations with many people in the beauty industry it made me realise that it was a perfect idea for a business.

5. When you first set up Nails Inc. did you have any prior business experience or did you just jump in head first?
A lot of my learning’s have been on the job. Through working in magazines I had a good understanding of women’s consumer trends and how to market and create and brand.

6. Was there ever a part of you that thought ‘wait this is to big a deal to start’ or did you always have faith that you would be able to launch the company successfully?
I have to always believe that we will be successful - it comes with the role. There’s no time for self doubt when you run your own business – you just have to dust yourself off and keep going!

7. You started Nails Inc. with your Tatler colleague Marie Therese but she left the business not long after it was launched. Was that a setback for you or by that point was the business already up and running and doing well?
Of course it was a set back but I have always had a team around me of dedicated inspiring women and I learnt a lot from my team.

8. I know that one of the best pieces of advice most business guides or books will give you is to get a mentor or business angel. Did you have either of these starting up and do you think they are necessary for every business start up?
Yes I have had non execs and mentors throughout nails inc. An external view is very helpful when you’re busy looking at day to day. It’s always good to set time aside to focus on the big picture view.

9. When was the first moment you realised Nails Inc. was a success?
The first day South Molton Street opened and the queues were huge. Sky TV was filming it and women were waiting 2 hours for a 15 minute manicure.

10. Do you think having had so much experience working at a fashion magazine is one of the key reasons that Nails Inc. Is so continually on trend?
Nails inc is extremely fashion led and we strive to set trends. We are inspired by the catwalk and my love of fashion runs through the brands DNA.

11. All your nail polishes are named after streets, what gave you the idea for this and how do you choose which colour will be named after which street?
I have always considered Londoners to have a unique and innovative style. Nails inc is a British brand and we wanted to celebrate that through our products. London is an aspirational destination to live in or visit and naming our products after London streets lets people have a little piece of London.

12. I am such a massive fan of Nails Inc. I recently did a post on my blog with a picture of how many polishes from your brand I own and some people commented that it is unusual that someone is so loyal to a certain type of nail polish. But I think that actually sums up how good nails inc is that I would rather save up to buy one of your nail polishes that I know I will love and that it will last rather than buy a couple for the same price from a cheaper make that will chip after wearing them for a day. How hard was it for you to get your polishes right and the quality you wanted?
Quality has always been hugely important to nails inc. I want to produce a high quality professional product that can be used both in our salons and at home. We manufacture all of our nail polishes in the UK to ensure that the formulation is as high quality as possible. We create products that people will want to use again and again. All of this has helped us establish a loyal fan base. I continue to develop the brand and take full advantage of the all the latest advancements and technologies.

13. Now that the brand is so successful are you able to take a more backseat role or do you think you will always want to be at the forefront making the decisions?
I am still very much involved in all aspects of the business and work at our head office. I love my role at nails inc but now I also have a team of great people to help me.

14. Did you feel that the recent financial crisis had an effect on your business or the beauty industry as a whole?
We found that we were not as affected in the beauty business as other businesses such as home / furniture / holidays / fashion – nail polish is an affordable luxury that our clients didn’t want to give up. Nail polish can transform your whole look and is far cheaper than buying a new dress of pair of shoes.

15. Nails Inc. is sold on the shopping channel QVC. I actually purchased your new Pastel collection range the last time it was on TV. QVC is a channel I really don’t watch to be honest but I always make a point of watching Nails Inc. when it is on it as I think the value of the sets is amazing. What made you make the decision to sell on the shopping channel and do you think they sometimes get an unfair press?
We wanted to reach out to new people – QVC is great for people who don’t have a nails inc store near them.

16. Being an entrepreneur yourself what do you think of shows like Dragons Den and The Apprentice. Do you think that they are fair ways to make it into the business world?
I think those shows are very entertaining and give people opportunities who may not otherwise have been able to make contact with such powerful and important investors.

17. You launched a new false eyelash brand called Get Lashed. Can you tell us more about this part of the company?
Get Lashed is a new brand that offers lash, threading and tinting services. We now have over 20 locations nationwide. We wanted to become a destination for beauty – you can visit us now for both a manicure, threading or lash services!
Lashes are one of the fastest growing beauty trends, and like nail polish, are the ultimate fashion accessory. Lashes are no longer just for party time, they can be worn every day and for any occasion.

18. Was it always your plan to expand your business and do you have any other plans to launch any other sidelines. I always imagined if Nails Inc made make up it would be wonderful, no?
Thank you. We have launched a sister brand, Get Lashed, which is selling strip lashes very successfully and we have a high fashion angle in the pipeline.

19. You have collaborated with a lot of designers and companies in the past such as Diet Coke, Luella, Gareth Pugh and PPQ to name just a few. How do these come about and do you have any more in the pipeline?
Often we are approached whereas sometimes we contact designers or brands who we really admire. We choose to collaborate with brands who fit well with nails inc and who we believe our innovative and inspirational. We have some exciting projects in the pipeline so you will have to wait and see!

20. What is the inspiration for Nails Inc. just now. What is influencing the new collections?
Nails inc polishes are catwalk inspired – right now the trend colours are camel, mink, nude, lilac and grey. Our collections this season are full of rich, luxurious shades that are both high fashion and easy to wear.

21. What advice would you give to young people looking to start their own business?
Do your research and find out what gaps there are in the market. You must believe in your idea and be determined to see it succeed. It’s hard work but incredible rewarding. Surround yourself with brilliant people always.

22. What is your view on blogs especially beauty blogs where people are more likely to talk about your products, do you think they are a good way to get your products out there to be seen?
I really do and the web is now such a hugely influential and important tool for communication. Blogs are fantastic as they promote equality – everyone can have their say / express their opinions. It is also a fantastic way to reach out to new customers. Its great to get that instant feedback.

23. If you had the chance to go back and give your 23 year old self some words of wisdom about what lay ahead, what would they be?
Just do it!

24. And finally, the secret to having perfect nails is......?
A regular manicure and wearing beautiful nail polish!

Check out Nails Inc. Here

Win... Win... Win... Win...

Check out Plastique*  Here

a.post.in.which.i.wear.an.outfit....

Cardigan-Miss Selfridge, Dress-A/Wear, Shoes-Peacocks, Belt-ASOS, Bangles-PRESHHUS, Necklace-PLASTIQUE*

I felt very lady-like wearing this outfit today

I think its something to do with the floaty fabric of the dress and the pastel colour of the cardigan too.

I got these new shoes yesterday

I had been looking for a little pair of brogue-like shoes for ages but i didn't want to pay to much for them

So i stumbled upon these in Peacocks

I think they are cute and i can't wait till they look a bit scruffy and scuffed i always like my shoes to look more worn in than brand-new-just-out-the-box!

I am still more than in love with my Preshhus bangles

I have worn them with everything!

This necklace is from a new jewellery label I'm loving right now- Plastique*

All the pieces they sell are made out of plastic but they all have the most amazing intricate designs on them

This necklace is a cassette tape and it is the prettiest little thing

I really like the way it add's a fun quirky touch to whatever your wearing!

And the good news is one Is This Real Life? reader will be able to own their own piece of lovely-ness from Plastique* soon as I will be doing a giveaway at the weekend

to win a cassette tape ring- Yes it is as amazing as it sounds-awesome!

So keep an eye out for that!
Happy Friday!

She Got That Swag...

P.S can you all see this full collage on your screens or is it disappearing off the edge?

All The Bands You Like I Liked Last Year....

I was so excited when i stumbled across this label

They have a great fun site that is so easy to navigate and packed with so many beautiful styles in there

I really love hand printed/screen printed tee's

I think it gives you such a great effect

The tie-Dye and Madonna sweatshirts are uh-mazing!

And being such a brat pack fan myself i love the Molly Ringwald/Sixteen Candles Tee

Such cute fun and quirky designs, perfect for throwing on with a pair of your Chinos and pretty winter cape

For laid-back chic!

Let me know what is your fave design and if you order anything?

Visit the site Here

I whip my hair back and forth....

Wearing- Lace Top-Topshop, YALE tee- Inkwell and Ivy, Shorts- Topshop, Shoes-Converse,
 Rosebud ring + Scrabble ring- Rock'n'Rose, Loveheart ring- Me and Zena, Bangles- Preshhus

So, I thought i would have a some fun and play a little dress-up!

When i accessorise I always like to wear really simple pieces

But i do love to pile things on that don't really match

Wither it be bangles or rings i love just throwing them on.

But the one thing that i never go overboard with is necklaces

So i thought i would put a change to that today

and piled on about 4 Set's of pearls.

Then as an added bonus i found an old plastic tiara (that i got given a few years ago as a joke from a friend)

I would call this look - Americana Alice From Wonderland! hehe!

If you have been a reader of this blog for a while you will have seen me post about the online store called Preshhus

It sells the most sparkly, glittering, girly and chic jewellery around!

Every piece has been designed with the highest quality crystals, beads and semi-precious stones.

I love the site

Especially there rings, they have the most beautiful big cocktail-style rings 

That i would love to have on every finger! 

I had spotted the prettiest bangles i have ever seen on Preshhus's twitter background

(I know that sounds dramatic, but seriously when it comes to sparkle I go a little crazy, i just can't get enough)

And I have been lucky enough to get my hands on these 4

They are much much heavier than i thought

Which i was so happy about i hate when you get those really flimsy bangles that get stuck half way up your arm all day

But there is no way these would do that as they have some weight in them

The whole bangle is covered in real Swarovski Crystal's which is just amazing

They constantly sparkle and glisten when the light hits them

The colours are all so bold and strong too

Which makes them really stand out

Like I said above I really love wearing lots of jewellery together hence why I'm wearing them at the same time

But you could easily just have one and you would get the same effect

Also they come wrapped individually in the most beautiful silk bags

So perfect for gifts

Especially for Christmas time

(I would say if your going to buy only one make it the red as it makes such an impact on it's own as well as with the other colours)

I have not taken them off since I've gotten them which was only a few days ago and i have already had so many compliments on them

And my little 1 year old niece came over the other day and she kinda got so excited about them she was freaking out, she couldn't get over the sparkle, so i think its confirmed that my love of glitz clearly runs in the family,hehe!

You can get your hands on the bangles here

and check out the whole site here

Also follow the store on twitter here, they are so super friendly and will be more than happy to help you or answer your questions

The colours i am wearing are- Purple, Red, Turquoise, Blue