Wishlist // On the Second Day of Christmas...

Large shabby jewellery box - vintage wood, mirrored trinket chest - Up-cycled and dressed in vanilla cream.

I've been on the hunt for a cute jewellery box for months now. The new flats coming together nicely, the kitchens done and the lounge is looking good - its just the bedroom looks a little bare. Now, it being both mine and Nick' room the agreement is we can't make it too girly. We've settled on a happy little medium, the sheets are powder blue and we have a couple of trinkety bits like my necklace stand and a chandelier style bedside lamp, but aside from that we are in serious need of some bits!

I spotted this on Etsy and fell in love immediately. It's the perfect style for our room and the size of it will be great! At the moment I have all my make-up in a shoe box and my jewellery in the case for my curlers! It's about time we fixed something a little more permanent!

Instadiaries // Week 6

Dominos feast for the Doctor Who Special // Cosied up for the Christmas Markets! // My Princess mug :') <3 // Selfie - S'all about the curls // Barry M Textured Nails // New boots from ARK - They're just perfect! // Dresses, coats & sweaters - I made the transition to winter wardrobe, really need some more wooly items! // Vintage style oversized clock - If I wasn't so obsessed with clothes I'd probably be an interior designer // Newest tattoo - isn't she just beautiful? 

Sunday Summary // Week 6

What I'm watching

We went to see Gravity on Wednesday at the IMAX and it was insane. It's only the second time I've seen a film on an IMAX screen, (I know... where have I been?) and I reckon for a first timer it was the best choice. The film itself was great, I kinda expected to walk in and watch 90 minutes of Sandra Bullock floating through space but I was surprised by how deep the plot got at points.
On the flip side we saw The Councillor too. I'm not sure if it was supposed to be a little artsy or whatever but seriously, it was mind numbing. The language is too metaphorical and meaningful for you to take it in first time, so by the end I genuinely didn't know what half of it meant, and the plot is just predictable. If your into that kinda thing though Nick and I agreed that perhaps after a couple of viewings there might be this whole deeper meaning which we'd just completely missed.
If anyone fancies explaining it to me please do! 

What I'm listening to 

I don't know what's up with me at the moment, my usual music taste is gone and instead has been replaced by 80's rock stars! Last week I was lindyhopping along with Cliff whilst this week I'm busting my lungs to Meatloaf.
What. A. Guy.
I found a CD in my car and so kindly introduced Nick to him on the way to the Trafford. I think he enjoyed it... my singing not so much.

What I'm reading

Okay so I'm not reading it... but I bought my boyfriend the A Game of Thrones graphic novel for Christmas and it is KILLING me not sitting on my arse and reading the whole thing cover to cover! It is amazing. I'm just sorry that I didn't buy the whole series. I keep picking it up and opening it at random pages as if that's going to help my burning desire for its words. 
It's not.

What I'm craving

Jones' Berry Lemonade Soda. For those of you who haven't heard of it, its this American pop which is just AMAZING. Basically, if the Gods made drink... this would be it. The bottles are decorated with the public's photography and inside the lid there's this little inspirational message which is so awesome. I still have about three in my car! 
They also do a Cream Soda which is so scrummy. If your a Mancunian the sweetie shop in Afflecks Palace sell it or you can buy it offline..

What I'm lusting after 

Princess Socks! (These are insanely cute.) - Studded Petals // Green Floral Jacquard Trouser - Miss Selfridge // Necklace Trim Floral T-Shirt - Miss Selfridge // Chain Trim Flatform Loafers - River Island // Denim Shearling Camping Jacket - Ralph Lauren Vintage // Motel Burgundy Lace-up Boots - Office

What I'm buying 

I've been Christmas shopping and I'm almost all done! I have a few more bits to pick up for Nick, I need to get my sister's dolly a dress and my brother a little something - though he'll probably just want Microsoft points... party on! 
Feeling wonderfully organised for once, I'll be done before December! 

What I'm wishing 

That this hideous cold would just fly away! //  Snow, snow and more snow! C'mon Mother Nature... Provide the white stuff! // The flat would clean itself, cannot be fussed today! // For a giant windfall - Mountains of cash would be brilliant right now // For the willpower to stop smoking - Shout at me, tell me I'll die, work out how much richer I'll be without the ciggys - I need help!

"You Look Like a Sexy Dinner Lady..."

 Navy and White Shirt - H&M // Blue and White Tennis Skirt - Vintage Elle - Thrifted // Blue Woollen Socks - H&M // White Cut-out Oxfords - New Look // Silver Rings (Selection) - H&M, New Look & Topshop

The first time I wore this skirt I asked Nick what he though of it, to which he so kindly replied, "You look like a sexy dinner lady." Well, dinner lady patterned or not, I adore this skirt. I picked it up in a charity store toward the end of summer and used to team it with a plain white tee and my JuJu Jellies, but as its gotten colder and my need for tights has become absolute, I've been struggling to style it to perfection. 

This Sweater/Shirt/Hybrid monochrome masterpiece, I think, is gorgeous! I've only worn it a handful of times but its one of those pieces that makes me feel so damn classy! I don't know why I didn't realise it before but the two go so well together. I love how the white acts as an accent throughout the outfit. 

What's your favourite thrift? 

Ria xo

Ladybug Creations // 18.11.13

So by now you guys have heard a lot about Ladybug Creations, and seen a little of the 'behind the scenes' but with five days to go to the grand unveiling I though I'd give you all a little treat!

 Jingle Bells necklace - £11 // Paper Wings necklace - £10 // Painting Roses necklace - £8 // Siren Songs necklace - £13

Each necklace is completely handmade and designed by me. The prices range from £6 to £15. The products are finished to an extremely high quality and each piece is completely individual. Some pieces are one of a kind and you'll find them nowhere else!

I am also available to do custom designs, just drop me an email. 

If you could all share this post I would appreciate it hugely. The shop goes live on the 18.11.13 and I have every limb crossed in hopes that it will be a success. And help you could give me would be amazing!

And finally, for the first month only, everything on the site is 15% off! I really couldn't give you a better excuse to check it out! 

Ria <3

Instadiaries // Week 4

Dressed up like her fave big sis! // Butterfly Cameo Necklace - Ladybug Creations - 18.11.13 // Pinkest of Pink Lily's // Classic Cameo Necklace (though this ones not quite finished... oops!) - Ladybug Creations - 18.11.13 // Fireworks at Heaton Park // We got drunk and found twin toilets. Ah-mazing. // Ladybug Creations - Are you tired of hearing about it yet? // The most beautiful little miss in this world! // Shell Necklace - (Once more...) Ladybug Creations - 18.11.13

Sunday Summary // Week 4

What I'm watching

This week I watched Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring, and The Two Towers for the first time ever! And I'm pleased to announce I loved it! I really don't know why it's taken me so long... I've watched the Hobbit a while back but was going to wait for the second one to come out before  saw the Lord of the Rings films. Anyway, I saw the trailer in the cinema and got way too excited. 

Return of the King - I'm coming for you.

What I'm listening to 

I'm back to Uni this week which means train rides and trecks. The soundtrack for my journeys have been courtesy of We Are The Ocean. My boyfriend doesn't much enjoy them, they aren't really his cup of tea, so the only times I really get to listen and enjoy my post-hardcore is when I'm alone. It's okay though, means I can go ahead and get lost in it - although singing my little heart out on the train is just disturbing for everyone...

What I'm reading

 It's not my usual choice, but I've just began reading Will Self - Walking Through Hollywood. It was one of my set books for uni last year but I never got round to starting it. It probably won't help me much work wise, but most of the books I was set last year were awesome! I've been really lucky with my reading lists so I thought I may as well give it a go. I'm only a couple of chapters in but I'll let you know how it is.

What I'm craving

A lemon and poppy seed muffin from Starbucks.

You know, I heard a story once about a woman who'd ate a poppy seed bagel for breakfast and later on in the day failed a drugs test, testing positive for heroin. Not sure if it's true but that's pretty deep if it is! Poor lady.

What I'm lusting after 

Oh god... There's one hell of a list coming! I've been doing my Christmas list this week so there's many, many goodies I have my eye on. Here's just a few...

Vagabond Leather Lace-up Boots - Urban Outfitters // The Penny Bag - Marc B - Topshop // Polo Shirt Dress - Fred Perry - ARK // Lilah Jumpsuit & Maude Floral Playsuit - Motel - ARK

What I'm buying 

NOTHING :'(

Ish... I've bought some more bits for the jewellery business, I have some cameo cabochons' on their way and some cute little bow shaped connectors as well as a load of beads. I'm super giddy to get designing!

I've also picked up a few small bits for Christmas, but nothing super exciting.

What I'm wishing 

That December would get here already, I want to put up our tree! // For the 18th - I'm super excited to get my website online! // That I had more winter clothes - A shopping trip is definitely due next week // And I'm still waiting for the snow to fall... sigh! 

Ladybug Creations // 18.11.2013

"The prettiest links to have graced this earth! You've stumbled upon Ladybug Creations. A fantastical emporium of fairytale esque, vintage inspired, distinct designs."

Just a quickie to tantalise your minds...

This week I've been holed up in the flat fiddling with findings, clasps and chains, using every ounce of creative instinct to put together some lovely little necklaces. You might remember me mentioning a while back the idea I'd had about making them, and me sharing a little inspiration? Well, the idea is no more and the reality is steam rolling in to life. I've cut myself, glued my fingers together multiple times, (seriously... I am not safe with that stuff!), and totally trashed the flat, but I'm getting there.

So far I'm loving the creative process. I keep getting little ideas and having to scribble sketches on take out napkins, my bags full of them. Being the organisational goon I am, each finished sketch gets transferred into my design book and marked up with measurements; ideas sprinkled round the outside like fairy dust! I'm having so much fun.

The websites near finished - I'm just working on adding all the products - and currently features four small collections. Most of the pieces are on a limited basis and the site also features a few one of a kind pieces. At the moment the only products available are necklaces but after a little market research and showing off the goodies to my pals', I've decided to add earrings and bracelets to the collection too. 

You can keep an eye on my progress through my twitter and instagram accounts. 

The site goes live on the 18th, tell your friends and check it out!

Ria xo

Flowers in the Attic

Floral Print Bomber Jacket - Vintage - A Cat Called Esteban // Black Crop Top - Topshop // Pale Blue Jeggings - Moto - Topshop // Black Frill Socks - Primark // Mock Crock Cut-out Boots - Missguided.co.uk // Gold Chain - H&M

How adorable is my new bomber jacket? It's from a super cool vintage store which I found when attending the Rianna Phillips AW13 Press Event called, Cat Called Esteban Vintage. I've bought a few more items from the store which have become serious staples in my winter wardrobe! For the moment I think the bombers gonna sit on the back burner until the sunshine pops his head up again. It'll look so cute with a pair of denim cut off's and a little floaty camisole! 

Instadiaries - Week 2

A Cat Called Esteban Vintage - Check out their online store! // My beautiful city scape view from the flat // Ootd shot - Loving my vintage suede jacket! // Ootd - I made the dress! // My favourite person on this earth // Essie - For the Twill of it // Make up haul - oops! // Cat Called Esteban Vintage floral bomber // Selfie! 

Ria <3

Open Your Eyes, Look Within...

Burgundy Tube Dress - Boohoo.com // Skull Print Velvet Embossed Sweater - Topshop // Mock Crock Cut-out Boots - Missguided.co.uk // Gold Chain - H&M // Gold Watch - Pulsar - Vintage // Gold Bracelet - H&M // Watch Ring - Vintage // Gold Rings - Various Sets - H&M

I quite literally haven't taken these boots off since they arrived. After a few days of suffering whilst the top buckle cut into my ankle, they are now so damn comfy! They're the definition of rad. 

I'm currently searching through the depths of my wardrobe for any swath of material that can pass as warm, cosy or thermal. This means tearing up the dregs from last winter in an attempt to find something that can pass as remotely stylish this autumn. I  definitely need to buy more sweaters!

 Ria <3

You Can Never Get a Cup of Tea Large Enough

White Shirt - Primark // Plaid Print Dress - DIY - Made by me // White Cut-out Oxfords - New Look // Golden Chain - H&M // Rings - Various Sets - H&M

I picked up this fabric a while ago from my favourite EVER shop! I found it in the vintage section for about £9 and at first intended to make a pinafore dress but I left it a little too long and the trend kinda blew over before I got round to so much as making my pattern! So I made this instead. Its the first dress I've ever made which actually fits properly, I'm like a giddy little kid when I wear it... I made this! Woo!

I'm halfway through making myself a red velvet swing dress so watch this space!

Ria <3

Sunday Summary - Week 1

What I'm watching

My boyfriend went away and left me all alone in the flat for the first time since we moved in this weekend, which sucks! I took the opportunity to start watching the classic Doctor Who episodes! I've made it up to 'The Sensorites', if your a fan of the Doctor give it a go! Though it carries the same story line, the doctor is new to the Tardis so you're learning about its design as he does. It's brilliant! 

What I'm listening to

At the moment I'm loving soft harmonies, The XX and London Grammar style. This week I discovered Lorde - Royals and since have been listening to her new album, 'Pure Heroine' on repeat. The sixteen year old artist is the first New Zealander EVER to hit the number one spot in America. This girl has one serious voice, if you haven't already give her a listen and show your support!

What I'm reading

Jodi Picoult - Lone Wolf. Jodi Picoult has long been one of my favourite authors. You might recognise the name? She originally wrote the novel which was transformed into 'My Sisters Keeper,' the film in 2009. Her novels typically follow the same theme as that in 'My Sisters Keeper,' in the sense that they are centred around controversial law suits. If you love a good tear jerker try 'Handle With Care.' My personal favourites are, 'Picture Perfect,' 'House Rules,' and 'Change of Heart.'

Jodi has such a beautiful writing style and crafts her work from multiple view points makes her novels the most well rounded and gorgeousely considerate stories I've encountered.

What I'm craving

I started a new work out plan this week. I don't think I've done any about of continuous exercise since High School - but the sight of Miley Cyrus' arse at the VMA's made me kick mine into gear! I'm doing pretty well with it all - my abs are killing me and my butt feels like I've slipped down a flight of stairs and landed on it - but I'm proud of myself for sticking to it. I'm aiming for a 1100 kcal daily intake and so far I'v managed to hit under that each day, but... and it is a big but, there's a bag of Malteasers in the cupboard just chanting my name! It's taking all my will to not pop them open!

What I'm lusting after

Hologram nail polish - OPI // Cecilia Ahern - One Hundred Names // Mademoiselle Tara Double Breasted Coat - ASOS // River Island Relaxed Faux Fur Coat - ASOS // KNUBBIG Table Lamp - IKEA // Darwin Iphone Case - Rianna Phillips // UTOPIA - Kurt Geiger

What I'm buying

I'm pretty skint at the moment - sux being a student - so I've not been splurging in a major fashion! I have managed to pick up this really cute necklace though and a couple of vintage jackets from Cat Called Esteban Vintage, some awesome jewellery and a LBD from H&M and a chunk of jewellery making goodies. So all in all not a bad week!

What I'm wishing

That the new series of Misfits would hurry up and start // That my pink Lily's hadn't died so quickly // That the flat's base temperature wasn't roughly 100 degrees // That I could find a job!

Cameo frames, Cats & Chains

eBay is the devil I tell you! 

There I was, all cosied up on the sofa scrolling through my instagram last night, just checking out all the cute handmade jewellery available when I found myself wondering; could I make jewellery? Very recently I bought this gorgeous necklace from Cat Called Esteban Vintage.

I adore the design - the multi layers and how each hanging chain adds extra volume and shape to the piece. The emphasis isn't on the pendant like most modern necklaces, the whole thing is crafted so that each part is as beautiful as the last. I began searching for something similar but with such a vivid picture of what I wanted in my mind I was hard pressed to find it. After a few beverages, naturally I was utterly convinced I could make my dreams a reality. Two hours later my shopping basket is full, my bank balance lighter, and on their way to me are a gorgeous range of cameo frames, chains and cats. Apparently I like cats now... 

Today I figured, since I had the materials on their way, I better begin some form of design process. Here's a little of my inspiration - feast your eyes and let me know what you think!

You might be able to tell I have a slight obsession with Cameo's....

My Great Grandma has the most beautiful collection of brooches, mostly antique, and since childhood I have been thoroughly stunned by the tiny details engrained in each one. To me, they are the epitome of beauty, from the models tumbling curls to their smooth profile; they have always caught my heart. I'd like to be able to recreate something similar in design, to be able to achieve even a fraction of that beauty in my designs is a dream.

I'll keep you updated on my progress via both my blog and my instagram profile so keep those eyes peeled!

If you like my ideas check out pill.se - Jo's designs are absolutely breathtaking and each piece is completely handmade. Her statement pieces put an urban twist on the vintage style, I love the 'Peculiar Jewels' collection. Bang on trend! Which pieces are your favourites?

Ria <3

Bones 'N Beads

White Shirt - Primark // Denim Skater Skirt - boohoo.com // Spotty Tights - H&M // White Cut-out Oxfords - New Look // Lace Headscarf - Vintage // Cross Design Bib Necklace - Cat Called Esteban Vintage 

On wednesday night I had the pleasure of attending the Rianna Phillips' AW13 press event held at 2202NQ, and had the opportunity to view all the awesome designs plus feast my eyes on her amazing mood boards! The venue is a rad basement with the most urban feel to it where for this week only you can find 'A Cat Called Esteban Vintage'. 

A Cat Called Esteban are an online vintage store with the most amazing collection of vibrant wind breakers and 80's shoulder pads! I picked up this necklace for only £18. I fell in love at first sight! The unique rose gold colour of the chain means it differs hugely from most of the brassy golds on the market atm and the bone effect enamel just gives the design a kind of cutesy gothic feel. (Cute and Goth? Really?...) I've been on a mission to build on my jewellery collection this month so doubly pleased with the buy!

Why not get online and check out A Cat Called Esteban for some super buys?! They even offer a 10% discount if you like their page! What's been your best vintage buy? Link me up in the comments box below - I'd love to check them all out!

Ria <3

Superdry Giveaway

Everybody loves a good give away and I am so pleased to announce my first!

I'm giving away this gorgeous pair of Superdry Corduroy jeans to one of you lucky readers. All you have to do it use the widget below to enter!

- Giveaway is for one pair of Superdry Corduroy jeans. (Size 28W)

- Giveaway ends after one week - 29th October 2013

- Open to UK readers only (sorry internationals - maybe next time!)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

She's a Topshop Princess, a Rockstar too.

Fur Coat - Vintage - Armstrong's Emporium // Playsuit - Topshop // Black Knee High's - American Apparel // Mock Crock Cut Out Boots - Missguided // Stag Head Ring - New Look // Wings Ring - H&M // Cross Chain - Topshop

So Saturday night I went out with some girlfriends and seriously... I don't think anything has ever escalated so quickly. EVER. Note to self: Cocktails are not my friends.

On the plus side my coat kept me super cosy on the walk home - which I swear took twice as long as usual. I really loved this outfit, the playsuit is dead old but a good ol' classic when nothing else seems quite right, and seeing as I don't own a black dress, (I know right... I call myself a fashion blogger!), it had to be the LBP. (... little black playsuit. Brap.)

What did you guys get up to this weekend? Let me know in the comments box below...

Ria <3

I Sold my Soul to the Open Road

Sweater - Vintage // Studded belt - H&M // Tights - Marks & Spenser // Mock crock cut-out boots - missguided.co.uk // Cross chain - Topshop // Gold Watch - Pulsar - Vintage // Gold chain (as bracelet) // Black ring - New Look // Gold set of rings - H&M

Giving my brand new boots a tour of Manchester today! I am still cooing over them, they are so comfortable too which I didn't expect. True love! <3

This sweater was one of my friends mums when she was younger, it was passed on to my friend then given to me. I'v had it for about four years now and I love it. The slouchy, oversized knit design is amazingly cool. I can chuck it on with just about anything for an effortlessly chic look. Today I went for the whole boho chic look, what do you think?

Ria <3

Country Girl.

Pink shirt - Primark // Plaid skirt - DIY - Made by me // Gold chain - Vintage // Tan leather belt - H&M // Vintage style cocktail ring - Missguided.co.uk // Grey socks - H&M // Tan boots - Topshop

So... back to Uni and back to normality in the daily routine and I have to admit I'm loving it! Though I'm thinking I probably should have chosen a different course three year ago! Instead of doing the work I was supposed to be doing this morning, I decided instead to make this skirt, so I guess a fashion design course might have been more fitting. I am looking forward to getting started with this year though, it's the first year I've actually picked my modules and I'm so excited to begin, as nerdy as that sounds!

I completely hate my hair in these photos, I'm sure it didn't look as bad in reality but hey! It's done now... I do love the outfit though. It reminds me of Belle from Beauty and the Beast at the start of the film slightly, I'm not entirely sure why! I'm so not used to wearing a long skirt, kinda feel like I belong in the 40's waiting for my soldier hubby to get home...

Ria <3