The Best Dupes For Those Valentino Platform Pumps

IMAGE CREDIT: @JOSEFINEHJ

I am never not thinking about shoes. Yes, I'm that girl. We all have that one thing in fashion that we obsess over; my thing just happens to be shoes. You will never find me not being drawn into a shoe shop for no apparent reason other than to absolutely fawn over shoes I probably do not need - especially when they are designer shoes because let's be real, they're the best ones. 

So of course, when Valentino decided to revive the platform heel in what I would consider the classiest way, I was immediately hooked. I have been day dreaming about the Tan-Go Platform Pumps ever since I saw them. No really, I've seen them everywhere on Instagram and I bring them up at least every other day to my Mum like I've not already told her about them. (Yes, she is consistently sick of me, but she's stuck with me so...) 

And apparently I am not the only one obsessed with these shoes. They are all sold out on Valentino's website and I would place bets that they are sold out everywhere else as well. So what's a girl to do when she can't buy the designer original? She finds a dupe. And here ladies and gents is where I live to serve you as I have found the perfect dupes for the Valentino platform pump. 

You may think that this is a trend shoe, one only for the moment, but I would beg to differ. Platform pumps have always been there, it's just right now they are on acid because they are coming from one of the biggest, most iconic fashion houses. Investing in a pair of platforms may be one of the best things you could do for your wardrobe and also for your feet. Platforms are comfier than most stilettos. I've had a pair of platforms that I've worn to death (and need to get replaced) because of how good they feel and look. So with this trend being so hot right now, why not jump on it? It's more classic than you think. 

*Some affiliate links are used*

      

  

So what are your thoughts on the trend? Yay or nay? Are you buying into it because I know I certainly am!

Sending you lots of love, 

Emily xx

A Note From A Hopeless Romantic...

CREDIT: PINTEREST

I am a self proclaimed hopeless romantic. 

I am a lover. 

I am an optimist. 

So what does that mean for me in a world where dating has practically become virtual; apps and DMs taking precedence over the traditional meet-cute. 

I'm the girl who's always expected to find love the way they do in the movies or TV shows. A little farfetched in this day and age, but here's the thing - I still believe it'll happen. 

I've been on dating apps. Yes I have succumbed to the advances of technology and social conventions, but I'll be dead honest, still not into it. I need to know if anyone else feels the same. Because scrolling aimlessly through profiles, judging people based off of photos and prompts, relationships being built over messaging, it just doesn't appeal to me. 

I know a few of you might be reading that rolling your eyes because you might think I'm picky. But here's what I've realised - there's nothing wrong with feeling picky when you know your worth.

We've all been walked over before when it comes to love, pining after people who are never going to change and treat us like rubbish, people who show interest but never follow through, and sometimes we settle for these things. But I've made it a point in my life to never settle. I found a way through all the obstacles I faced so I could love myself like never before, and now I'm the happiest I've been in myself, in my own skin. 

Are there the pressures to find someone still? Yes. Do I feel lonely at times? Yes, I'm human. But do I feel like I need to compromise what I'm searching for just for the sake of being with someone? No.

Having standards and expectations is never a bad thing. Sometimes, yes, we take them too far, but when you really reflect on the things you want from love, you'll realise those things aren't so far out of your reach or too much to ask for. 

So on this Valentine's Day, I want to remind you, it's okay to hope for the fairytale. It's okay to want the meet-cute straight from a movie. It may not play out exactly the same way, but if that's what you want, let the universe know, put it out there and don't stop searching for it. 

Because when it feels right, it is right. 

Lots of love, your secret admirer for Cupid Day, your forever Galentine, 

Emily xx

January Was The Greatest Trial Run

Outfit: Dress - Pretty Lavish / Boots - New Look / Bag - Gucci (old)

Hello my lovelies! It's been a minute and honestly, I haven't had a minute to even sit here and pour my heart out to you in my regular way. 

We're in February, arguably one of my favourite months because I'm an Aquarius and I just celebrated my birthday this weekend, which I will get into later. But before we get into that, we need to recap what happened in January.

I started my year in one island, then made my way to another. Watching the fireworks over Galle Face in Colombo was such a beautiful experience. And soon enough, I was on a plane (well two) back to London. Why did I return to London you ask? Well, 2022 is definitely a big new chapter for me.  

On 17th of January, I graduated with my Master's degree in Media & Communications from City, University of London - a mega achievement. I've probably mentioned it already before but doing a degree during the pandemic was the best decision. Not only did I get the degree, the whole cap and gown hoo-ha, but I also got to meet some of my new favourite people for the first time in the flesh. So it was definitely a big day.

Since then I've spent time with new friends and old, got to watch one of my best friend's absolutely slay it as the lead in a pantomime, took a friend on her first trip to Primark (which you can watch here) and just roamed around London as if I was a tourist again. 

I've been able to fall in love with this city again, I'm in awe of it every day. I thought I'd have to relearn my way around but it was like I fell right into place again, walking everywhere, navigating everything, loving every moment. I pretty much want to spend all my time exploring.

And with all this, I've pretty much dropped off the content creation planet... even though I've bee wearing cute outfits and having adventures. But I've just become more present and in the moment, less on my phone and creating memories. 

See my January Recap on TikTok!

Even on my birthday last Friday (4th), I didn't take enough photos! Shock horror! I mean we were just having too much fun. Even though I vlogged and captured a few moments, I was truly enjoying the moment. Turning 26 was the most fun birthday I've had in a while, with our wonderful Italian meal at Sergio's followed by karaoke at Lucky Voice, surrounded by some of my favourite people. And not forgetting the absolutely beautiful cake my Mum sent me because we must never have a birthday without cake. I've seriously been utterly spoilt. 

But really, January (and the beginning of February) has been such an incredible start to 2022. There's so much more I have to tell you, but when the time is right, you will find out... And I'm so excited to share a very big thing.

Now I must promise to bring you more content. Time to start planning.

Lots of Love, 

Emily xx

Goodbye 2021, & Thank You

Outfit: Dress - Mango / Shoes - Dune

Another year has come to an end. We hoped that 2021 would be better than 2020, and arguably it was in a way. For me, 2021 was monumental in little and big ways. I wanted to take this time as we spend our last few moments in this year to reflect on what it's meant for me, so I hope you don't mind. 

I turned 25 this year. 

Before I turned this age, I was panicking about turning it. I thought "Oh my God, 25, how? What? No, I'm too young." Something about this age felt daunting, like there was an expectation to have my life together. When I was younger, I had a plan and I thought my life would be totally different to what it actually is at 25. But then I relaxed into this age, I spent time with myself and realised the thing we all need to realise: Nothing ever goes to plan, and that's not a bad thing. 25 has made me stronger, made me love myself more, made me be more myself again like I was when I was a kid. Though I'm an adult now, I feel connected to that carefree, confident little Emma again and that for me is so beautiful. And now, going into 2022, in just over a month, I'll be turning 26 and you know what? I cannot wait. I'm not scared, I'm excited for all the possibilities it holds. What a shift in mindset. 

I completed a Master's Degree with Distinction.

I decided to not let COVID take a whole year of my life away by last minute deciding to do my Master's degree in Media & Communications from the comfort of my home in Sri Lanka. Back at my alma matter, a comfort place for me really, but a course that pushed me out of my comfort zone. Having to make friends through Zoom calls, becoming a student rep, actively participating in classes when others may have been silent. I really pushed myself and tried to get the most out of this course. It paid off. Just the other week, I received my results and the confirmation that I would be graduating with distinction - I lost my mind. I couldn't be prouder of myself, though that sounds so self-centred. But it's important to celebrate all the wins, and this one was huge for me. Now I look forward to my in-person graduation next month back in London, meeting all the new friends and celebrating this achievement even more. 

I started a whole new venture on a sport I love. 

People are still confused when I tell them I love Formula 1 and have since I was a kid. It's a part of myself I kept hidden for fear of being judged. But why was I scared of being judged for a passion? Lord only knows. F1 has been in my life for as long as I can remember. It filled my weekends, the whole family watching it together and being so invested in every race. As I grew in coming back to myself in the most authentic sense, this love came pouring out for more to see. I felt comfortable sharing that unexpected side of me. So when my mum told me to take that love, passion and, excuse the pun, drive, and turn it into something that could be so good, I took the plunge. I got myself on TikTok, created "The F1 Rundown", launched it in October and have been consistently creating content on the sport. In just 2 months, I've reached over 3600 followers, 50k likes and views ranging from 1k to 5k to 10k to 30k to even... 100k. Every time the number goes up, my smile gets bigger. It's the same when I talk about it and people notice. So maybe, who knows, you might just see me as a presenter for F1 someday!  (Keep your fingers crossed for me because I'm working to get there). 

Though it took a back seat, this blog still means the world to me.

I didn't post or create as much content as I would have liked for Seventeen James, I may not have the biggest following or readership, but it's not stopping me. I want to keep going, creating and sharing. I have so many ideas for 2022 and I can't wait to execute them because the drive and determination is there. I want to make this bigger and better. So I hope you'll stick around for the ride. I promise you, I'll be back with a force in the new year.

Alongside all these big achievements, there have definitely been the small ones too. I've been blessed with beautiful supportive friends, who have showered me with so much love and appreciation. My family have been nothing but cheerleaders for me and my comfort. Most importantly, I learnt how to truly be me, more so than ever. 2022 will be a continuation of that journey and I'm so ready for it. I think it might just be my best year yet. I can feel it. 

I hope you all had the merriest of Christmases and I'm wishing you all the good things for 2022. Happy New Year my lovelies!

Lots of love, 

Emily xxxx

Christmas Nails & A Little Review of A New Nail Salon!

 I've probably mentioned this before, but I love getting my nails done. I'm not always going to the salon, it's a very rare occasion, so when I do it's usually to get my nails done. Combine that love with the excitement of Christmas, you've got a happy, happy Emily. 

So yesterday, I got my festive nails done and I absolutely adore them. I tried a new nail salon here in Colombo and I was so impressed with them that I felt I needed to share my experience. 

I found Noeline's on Instagram last year, (they've only open for a year), and I had been meaning to head to them for my next nail appointment, but I never actually got around to it. So when Mum said it's time to get our festive nails done the other day, I said "to Noeline's". 

Upon arriving, we were able to meet the owner herself, Noeline, who was absolutely wonderful. Truly, she is a treat. We had a chat with her, she offered us hot chocolate (which of course I took) and was utterly accommodating, checking on all her customers. The salon was packed with customers in the best way, which instantly gave you the impression of how good their services are. Not only do they offer nail services, but also waxing, lash and eyebrow services, facials and more. 

Mum and I got ourselves the Signature Mani and Signature Pedi with gel, which I haven't had for ages. The service we had from our nail technicians was extremely good, we were truly pampered and they were very attentive. Mum got herself a deep red plum colour on both her nails and feet, whilst I got a super Christmassy red on my toes (because Christmas) and I continued the festivities on my fingers, but still kept them minimal and on aesthetic. 

I don't do acrylics or extensions anymore because they ruined my nails years ago, considering my nails were always weak to begin with. But now, my natural nails are super strong and so I decided on gel on my naturals. In typical Emily fashion, half my nails broke 3 days before I got my nails done, which slightly compromised my design intent, however we managed to make the gold glitter french tips work and I truly love them. 

The quality of the nail work is brilliant and I'm really impressed. It makes total sense as to why the place is packed with appointments. I plan to definitely recommend this place to anyone I know, but also to you readers. If you are looking for your next nail salon in Colombo, look no further than Noeline's. 

Now I plan to continue just looking at my nails in awe and talk with exaggerated hands for the rest of the festive season. 

Check out Noeline's on Instagram and TikTok, as well as all the services they offer on their website. 

How are you getting your nails done this festive season? I would love to know! 

I hope you're all staying safe and well. 

Lots of love,

Emily xx

Ready For Dinner, Dressed For Bed: Why The Pyjama Trend Is The Perfect One

Outfit: Pyjamas - Custom / Heels - Tony Bianco / Bag - Aldo

If there's a style for me that will never die out, that will be in my wardrobe forever, it would be the pyjama trend. There's something utterly comforting about being able to wear fancy silk pyjamas out of my house. 

If you've been following me for a while, you will know that comfort is key for me and what's more comfortable than pyjamas? Nothing. What's more, the pyjamas I'm talking about are those classic piped ones. The epitome of boujee pyjamas are silk piped ones and over the years they have become more than a statement for the bedroom, but for the streets too. 

I don't believe its possible to class up any other style of pyjama enough that you could wear it for dinner. I mean you could, but it wouldn't be as effortless as doing so with silk pyjamas.

This particular style is one that I have been wearing for years and I've never shied away from. Recently, I've decided to tailor more of these sets for my wardrobe in various colours because if there's anything I strive for in my clothing, it's comfort. I would rather be utterly comfortable than be restricted and anxious the whole time I'm wearing an outfit. 

Pyjamas for me are one of those easy outfits for when I'm feeling either my best or worst. I could wear them casual with sneakers or dress them up with heels. For me, there's nothing more too it than that because you have an outfit put together so easily. 

Yesterday when Mum decided she wanted to take us for a surprise dinner, it took less than a minute to decide what to wear - I instantly was going for a pyjama set. They feel wonderful to be in and still look elegant. 

I wore this chocolate brown pair with a light pink trim, which I hadn't worn yet but since we had them made I've been dying to find an occasion for them. Paired with my classic Tony Bianco mules and Aldo bag, it was the easiest outfit that made me feel good. 

With Christmas round the corner, I think pyjamas are the perfect choice for any smart-casual event. Wearing a festive coloured piped pyjama this season is not only fun and comfortable, but for some reason feels utterly fitting for this time of year. 

So will you be wearing your pyjamas out this Christmas and beyond?

*Some affiliate links are used here*

   

   

 

Hoping you're all staying safe and well! Lots of love, 

Emily xx

Why is Green The Colour of The Moment?

Outfit: Overcoat & Shirt - Custom / Shorts - Old / Shoes - Tony Bianco

Colours always get their centre stage moment, dominating the fashion world from top to tail. There are definitely a few colours making the rounds right now, but there's one that I feel is catching my eye more than ever; green. 

I have been seeing a lot more green across the aspects of the wardrobe and it got me thinking about how powerful this colour can be. 

Green is related to many things: nature, neutrality, tranquility, energy, money, luck, envy, jealousy and so on. It definitely goes across the spectrum of emotive response but for me, and possibly for others right now, it's a colour that emotes positivity especially in the form of luck. 

When we think of luck, one of the things we think of is a four leaf clover. There are alternative options for lucky charms that are individual to everyone, but green definitely does make itself present there. Green is also linked to money and I think it makes perfect sense because there's an opulence with the colour; especially when you see rich greens, such as emerald. 

Emeralds represent spiritual awareness, protection, love and wisdom. Peridots signify compassion, harmony, peace, similar to green sapphire and jade which are linked with tranquility. These colours, or more so their stones, definitely generate positive energy and making it understandable as to why these colours are used in high fashion jewellery and clothing. 

The reason why I believe this colour is having a moment in the fashion sphere is because we're all looking to embrace the bold but also to feel through what we wear. As colours have strong meanings, I believe that we subconsciously attract ourselves to certain colours to cultivate a mood and feel. 

With green being so linked to luck, money and peace, it makes complete sense why we are leaning towards it more. Something I have realised lately, especially in my close circle, is that everyone is working on themselves; making the decisions, moulding the path to lead to their dream lives and making their energy strong and self-serving. I love that energy and I need more of it for myself. Working on your own energy is so important and I feel that having a colour like green around you or on you regularly works as an extra boost.

Personally I think the best way to have a colour you feel you connect to with you constantly is through jewellery, especially timeless forever pieces. I also think that having green pieces in your wardrobe in rich fabrics is also a beautiful way of bring this energy into your life. I'm talking opulent stones, silks and satins. I've shared below a few green centric pieces for you to shop if you're looking to add more green into your life. Click the images to shop. 

    

    

 

What do you think of green as the colour of the moment? Is it for you or is there another colour that you have gravitated towards lately? I definitely think I have about three colours I'm drawn to right now including green, so I'd love to know how you're feeling right now! Let me know in the comments below. 

I hope you're all staying safe and well. 

Lots of Love, 

Emily xx