Tag Archives: fashion

Aug 31 2021
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Truth Brownies

When the ‘Treat Yo Self’ approach to life gets out of hand, how does someone devoid of all discipline make lasting changes to benefit their health?

I had a slab, not a slice, a slab of chocolate brownie and a Cadbury’s Twirl for my breakfast. It’s hospital day today. I’m booked in for some investigations this afternoon to see if the persistent pain in my ribs is HHT related or if I’m just fat. I’m 99% convinced it’s the latter. Yesterday I had a bowl of sugarpuffs for breakfast and I can’t work out if that’s better or worse than today. In fact, yesterday I had Sugarpuffs with semi skimmed milk (I’m not a complete animal, who drinks full fat milk?) followed by garlic bread with cheese at lunch, followed by a BBQ dinner of sausage (no bun), cheese burger (all the brioche bun), mixed salad, red pepper hummus, those amazing mini poppadoms from M&S, chocolate brownie and 6 custard creams. Anyone at IMA want to try and work out how many calories that equates to?

I’ve got a serious issue with lack of discipline. When I was young I could eat whatever the hell I wanted and stay slim. I was very active as a teen and 20 something but the moment I got pregnant, i kissed that little luxury goodbye. I didn’t eat for 2, I ate for 12, for the whole 9 months. I put 4 stones on in 9 months. The baby weighed in at less than 9lbs, don’t try to make me feel better.

In between babies 1 and 2, I went from a size 14 to a size 10 again and looked and felt a lot better. However that wasn’t due to hard work and effort, it was the Divorce diet of stress. It’s SO effective.

I’m no as heavy as I was when I gave birth in 2010. It’s so depressing because I’m not even carrying another human being this time. But as you’ve probably learned from my breakfast choices this morning, I’m lacking any kind of will to do anything about it.

I am reaching critical mass though. I’m making my boyfriend delete pictures of me. I’m not jumping in selfies with my kids. I HATE my wardrobe and it’s entire contents. I’m dreading getting back to work because it means I have to see people who will DEFINITELY notice the weight gain. I’m back to wearing all black outfits in an attempt to hide my bulky frame.

It’s hard going all this, isn’t it? I find it’s far too easy to give yourself some slack but then struggle regain a healthy balance. All bodies are beautiful, stop comparing yourself to others, and my personal favourite, treat yo self. When I happen across these inclusive, nurturing, well-meaning posts on Instagram, all my brain hears is: “EAT ALL THE FOOD, WATCH ALL THE PRIME” and nothing else.

Today’s excuse is, it’s the last day of the month and surely tomorrow, 1st September is the BEST TIME to start again. Seriously, what is that all about?Starting diets on a Monday? Start healthy new habits on 1st of the month? Why? Why isn’t 09:17am on Tuesday 31st August the best time? I’ll tell you why, because I lack self discipline.

I’m at a cross roads because I can’t understand why I can’t commit to just not eating shite and moving my ass regularly.

I love to move. Razzing about on my bike makes me dead happy. Starting my day with yoga and HIIT makes me happy. Dragging the kids out on a long walk or blitzing a 25 mile, 2 day city break with my better half, stuff of dreams.

A lack of discipline and no get up and go can be lethal. Just ask my recent DKNY bumbag purchase, which is already on the last belt buckle hole.

I need your advice, your input, your motivation because I’m seriously sad about this whole situation. It’s getting me down. I want to feel good in my clothes again. I don’t want to have to sit out when my kids are arsing about in the garden/park. I don’t want to wear head to toe black (although it’s SUCH a good look).

Hit me up and how you get the balance between feeling and looking good, and living a little.

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Jul 02 2020
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Crocs, Geese, and Giant Strawberries

There are fundamental signs of getting old, and choosing to buy a pair of Crocs is undeniably one of them. It’s official, I am middle-aged. Shouldn’t I be buying a sports car and dating a 22-year-old?

Alright, so the old adage of suffering a mid-life crisis is a bit outdated, but seriously, I want my PORSCHE 911! I’m joking, although I have bagged a younger man, but that’s not news.

The weather during lockdown has been nuts. 30 degrees one day followed by 8 days of solid rain, followed by a week of mid-twenties and 40 days and 40 nights of rain again. Like I said, nuts. I wasn’t prepared for summer.

I panicked. I didn’t know what I was doing, I just knew I didn’t want to wreck another pair of Adidas Campus by wearing them without socks, to avoid tan lines and before I knew it I was on the Very website looking at flip flops and then didn’t stock my size in Havaianas and then after three hours of scrolling for stupid flip flops, I just went for plain black, hit order and logged out.

I wasn’t even excited when they arrived. I opened the bag and there, staring back at me, were Crocs. Not Crocs like, Crocs. They’re not mules that you slip your feet into. They don’t have air holes in the front, nor a strap that goes around the heel. They don’t have Crocs written anywhere on them bar the sole, and they don’t have the logo. Oh God, I bought Crocs, didn’t I? Shit.

The weather stayed warm and so I wore them, making sure to hide them from my teen in case she started legal proceedings against me. It’s been three weeks and so far, so good. Having published this, I won’t be surprised to find my secret Crocs have been kidnapped like in some summer sandal version of Taken. I can’t see Liam Neeson turning up to rescue my flip flops. Can you?

From crocs to geese! Yesterday I wrote about The Untitled Goose Game on Nintendo Switch and oh my days, it’s so addictive! The other worrying aspect of this game is realising that acting like a complete asshat is actually really fun! Scaring a kid into a phone box by honking at him, stealing household items from the shop, lobbing a pint glass in the canal, and smashing valuable vases is a riot! Anyone else played it yet? What do you think?

Where do the Giant Strawberries fit into all this, you may be wondering. It’s simple really. I managed to get a shed load of work done today, loads of research, I’ve started making more progress on HHT Kids too. Funding, set up, content creation, talking to our website designers, getting the ball rolling with organisation status, etc. I’ve cooked, cleaned, emailed, called, text, typed, and listened. All-day long. (Still no strawberries?!)

At 5:30pm we packed up some snacks and headed out to a new park for an alfresco dinner and some exercise. I met the cutest dog, annoyed my boyfriend by calling him for no good reason, took loads of photographs, hid my little boy as he took a quick leak in the bushes, and cycled home. Bit of TV and everyone into bed.

Here I am, trying to not rustle the packet of Giant Strawberries I told the kids must have ‘fallen out of the bag at the park’ so I don’t have to share them. The old ones are the best!

 

 

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May 02 2020
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Open Your Eyes

Painting my bedroom ceiling blue was such a good idea. Waking up on even the dullest of days, I’m met with a cerulean blue skyscape which matches the calm waters of exotic holiday destinations I pine for.

I forgot to take my mascara off again. Reaching over to my bedside table, I pick up my phone and see the barrage of late-night texts from the girls. F&ck, that was a belting night out. My hair, still half curled, feels matted with cigarette smoke and shots residue. Laughing to myself, I sit up in bed and trawl through the pics and videos of us arsing about with a stag do of lads dressed up as superheroes.

Ahh, there’s that fit one who said I laugh like Daffy Duck. Cheeky ba&tard. He was right like, but still. When the manic laugh comes out, that’s when I know I’m pi$$ed. Haha. He said he liked my freckles. Weird, no one else has ever said that before. Definitely not dressed as Batman anyway. Fun times, should’ve snogged him, I just wasn’t sure if he was actually the groom to be and I won’t make that mistake again.

Mad to think of all the hilarious times we’ve had in just a small part of town. That time a bloke just picked Leah up, lashed her over his shoulder, and ran the full length of the street, proper Tarzan style. Her bag flew open, spewing make-up, coins, tampons, keys, the lot down the street. To this day, we still don’t know who he was or why he did it. We just cried laughing at her little head, bobbing down the street screaming “save me!”

I scooch back down under the covers and go for a full-body, cat-like stretch. It’s going to be a good day. Through the drapes, the sky is looking as blue as my ceiling which means my plans to wear the Vogue power suit, have gone out of the window. Too stuffy.

Looking around the walls for inspiration, my hectic studio creeps into the boundaries of my bedroom, stark in comparison. Having never fully grown out of the need to stick posters on my walls, my designing space is a riot of colour, cut-outs, and posters I have picked up at the cinema and vintage shops.

My favourites are the transport ones. We’re all commuters, one way or another. I love reimagining the 1920’s and 1940’s posters with modern fashion on the trams and old fashion motor cars.

Back when summer holidays meant a week-long visit to the coast, rather than a two-week break in Tahiti, travel was such a different concept. Long hemlines and long train journeys through the urban landscape to appreciate vast expanses of the sky at the seaside, were the norm. Beachside villas and country retreats brought about the same levels of excitement about shopping for a holiday wardrobe as we still get now. Something about packing makes me stupidly excitable.

No rest, nor holidays for the wicked just yet, there’s a collection to finish and meetings to attend. A bright, warm Monday morning calls for a splash of colour I think. Throwing back the blankets, I tiptoe on the cold floor to my walk-through wardrobe and trace my fingers along the rails. Oh there it is. The bright red, full length, wrap-around skirt with the white flower pattern. I first wore it for a play in sixth-form and tracking it down had been like a sequence from an adventure film. Call me Indiana James. Today it was the skirts time to shine.

Heading for the shower, with a spring in my step and Aretha on the record player, it was going to be a good day.

 

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Oct 08 2017
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Like It or Lump It

I did something really scary today, way scarier than when a mahoosive house spider dropped on my daughters leg mid-shower the other morning before school…..

I took some pics and put them on my social media. I know, it sounds pathetic, especially because I practise the art of pic-sharing online most days thanks to Instagram and being a birrof a narcissist….no really, I am. I love a good selfie, B&W street scene, and pre-planned Insta-story as much as the next weirdo, but today’s pics were a bit different.

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About 18 months ago I mislaid my beloved Nikon DSLR after a weekend away with my arsehole of an ex. You’ve no idea how gutting it was to find I had safely stored the SD cards containing pics of him grinning at Nou Camp, but lost the sodding camera.

Anyway, I finally replaced the camera this week (I know, I rock at procrastination) with a base model Canon instead, and its freaking awesome. I’ve not got much idea what I’m doing other than point and shoot at this stage, but taking a wander around the docks, Liverpool today while eldest curly kid was at a party, was pretty awesome.

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I took a fashion illustration class earlier this month over at Unit 51, Baltic Triangle and spent a blissful Saturday afternoon re-learning how to draw figures (in various sassy poses) under the expert watchful eye of Pro Illustrator and Photographer, Kitty Fuller.

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After much scribbling, hatching, shading (and me generally mumbling ffs), Kitty (also known as Sarah) noticed that I had an affinity for a long, straight line and that linear was my design style. It struck a chord with me and I was determined to find a subject for my first shoot with the Canon, that offered up the same look and feel.

Imagine my delight at being able to freely photograph Stanley Dock on a grey, drab Sunday afternoon! No really, I was totally chuffed. Some of the warehouse buildings as well as the old Heritage Market and Ten Streets earmarked site are symmetrical heaven! Typically I had filled a SD card within a few minutes, but these are the four images I really quite like.

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The scary part in all this? Is actually sharing the pictures. Art is such a personal thing. One person may rave about a pic which can be quite easily labelled shite by another, so I’ve made a conscious decision to shoot and share the scenes, people, events and things I love, and not what’s commercially ‘In’ to impress the digital masses.

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If you’re an experienced tog and want to share some tips on how to get the best from your Canon, please do drop me a line, you’ll find me on katereillyjames@gmail.com equally if you want to send some constructive criticism or a high five my way, that’s cool too.

Here’s to many weeks and months of taking pics and finding my ‘style’. Apologies in advance for being a camera bore, but I faffing love this city and sharing it with the tinterweb might just be my new favourite thing. (Apart from collecting Nikes of course)…..(and those processo freezies from Aldi)…….(and Maoam).

x

 

 

 

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Apr 01 2017
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The Lord Mayor of Liverpool’s Charity Fashion Show 2017

On Thursday evening 8 of my friends took to a catwalk and strutted their stuff to a classic Whitney track……and I teared up with pride.

The Lord Mayor of Liverpool (the lovely Roz Gladden) hosted the third annual fashion show which raises vital funds for four local charities and also gives aspiring designers, models, make up artists and event managers an opportunity to roll up their sleeves and experience it first hand.

Landgirls

I signed up to create and show a collection back in September 2016 and the biggest lesson I have learned from the whole experience is that leaving absolutely everything – including the actual making of the clothes, until 24 hours before hand, is not a good idea.

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However, three sewing machines, two acrylic nails and the best sister in the world later  (thank you so much Cazzy), a mini collection of 13, 1940’s Land Girl Army inspired pieces, was born. Who doesn’t love a head scarf and a winged eye liner on a Thursday night?

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Having grown up as an ‘Army brat’, married into the RAF and more recently worked closely with 156 Regiment in Allerton, I felt that the armed forces theme was the way forward, and my second thank you is to Maj Laurence Roche, who very kindly donated his mess jacket (Which I wore) and tartan trousers (worn by Cath Bore), which inspired the rest of the collection.

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I specifically asked friends of all ages, heights and shapes to model my collection. What society calls ‘real women’. Ensuring there was a range of sizes from 6-16 was important to me, as was empowering my models to go out into the limelight and own the catwalk. No sullen faces, but plenty of attitude, a bit of a dance and ear to ear smiles.

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Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all the girls who battled nerves, victory curls and my wonky-tailoring, to show the 150+ crowd of smiling faces, just how utterly amazing you are. Thank you Cath, Leanne, Steph, Caroline, Paige, Meg, Deanna, Ashleigh and Michelle.

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For the first time I truly appreciated just how much make up and hair makes a collection really pop. Thank you to Hayley and Ashleigh for creating razor sharp, sultry flicks, red lips and victory curls that brought everything together. You absolutely nailed your first show, and Ashleigh even ended up modelling for me too! Legends!

It all came together at the very last minute – as these things tend to do. Kudos and huge thanks to Andrew, Anna and Emma – seasoned pro’s at smashing out breath-taking runway looks as standard!

hayley and ashleigh

A few people to thank:

To my three beautiful children – I almost broke under the pressure so many times, trying to juggle everything, be a good mum, progress at work, do my small bit for charity. I don’t always get the balance right, but coming home every day to hear you all arsing about, giggling makes it all worth while. Love you millions x

Emma for the best show day surprise I could ever have imagined and for supporting me every step of the way and at all hours of the day and night.

Jay at The Guide Liverpool for allowing me to shirk work for a few days to create the collection and also show it on the night. John at The Guide Liverpool for filming all the action and not being phased by half-naked models running about!

Thank you to Andy and Geoff at 156 Regiment for the loan of the berets and flags. I’ve never been so nervous of borrowing something so precious!

Paul, Pauline, Tash and especially little Kaidie, thank you for being there to support us all on the night x

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My biggest thanks and admiration are to Jodie McShane. I have no idea what I’d have done without you and considering we’d not met before, you read my mind and kept everything running smoothly when I was flapping! I’m really looking forward to working with you again.

Lord Mayors Fashion Show

Led by the lovely Sofia Spencer, the show ran smoothly and raised just over £1400 for the Lord Mayor’s charities. To see all the official photos from Ian Williams and Andy Forster and video clips of The Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Roz Gladden realising her daughter was on the catwalk……click here. Also check out my Gallery page for all the backstage pics and shenanigans too!

Same again next year?

x

 

 

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Mar 09 2017
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Sorry I’m Late…..

Slightly disgusted that it’s taken me until March 9th to post my first blog of 2017, but in all honesty, I’m late for most other things too.

Hello! Happy New Year, Happy Australia Day, Valentine’s Day and whatever else I’ve missed in the last few weeks. Assume you’ve all completely abandoned any New Years resolutions by now and are, like me, pretending to have a go at Lent instead? As well as being late for stuff I’m also incredibly undisciplined.

Moving swiftly on….

Global Scouse Day

2017 has been epic so far. I’m rushed off my feet with work as The Guide Liverpool goes from strength to strength. I’ve stepped in front of the camera on a number of occasions and (thanks to our ridiculously talented videographers) it looks like I did an okay job! Check out all the action from Global Scouse Day here. (Ps, scouse pizza is the bomb).

Lord Mayors Fashion Show

I’m (just about) still on course to show a capsule collection of military chic couture at The Lord Mayor of Liverpool’s Charity Fashion Show on March 30th at the Devonshire House Hotel. I’ve absolutely no idea how I’ve pulled this off because there really aren’t enough hours in the day to keep up!

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I did manage a little trip over to Belfast with my curly girl a couple of weekends ago. We had a ball exploring the city together and spending the best part of £50 on tacky gifts to bring back home. You can read our very serious review here.

Radio City Cash for Kids

Looking ahead, I’ve just become ‘Face 38’ in the Radio City Cash for Kids 1000 Faces Campaign. The charity are looking for 1000 local faces to sign up and raise just £100 each for local children and their families facing hardship. It’s an incredibly worthy cause, I’ve pledged my support and you can too here. Alternatively just give me some change or you know, like £100 the next time we meet up. That would be great thanks.

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Aside from work I’ve been back on the dating scene, which let me enlighten you, in your 30’s is an entirely different ball game to being 21 and full of confidence! Luckily Liverpool is an amazing city for a night out and any place you can dance your little heart out to an 80’s covers band until 2am on a Tuesday morning is alright with me….and him.Eric’s Mathew Street – You guys rock!

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I’m ridiculously excited to be reporting on MCM Comic Con Liverpool this weekend (March 11-12) and cant wait to be surrounded by passionate people (including my curly girl, mad RWBY fan) who nail their cosplay costumes every single time! How many Jokers do you reckon I can get a selfie with? Check out all the details of which TV stars are attending here.

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So lucky to be working with designer Alice James again after she ‘dressed’ me for last year’s Merseyside In Business Awards. This time I’m attending the James Bulger Memorial Trust Black Tie and Tiara Ball in support of my lovely friend, Jay Hynd as he hosts the star studded event, and Alice James has stepped in to help me update a vintage gown I fell in love with over a year ago…..all will be revealed on March 18th at the Crowne Plaza, Pier Head.

There’s tickets still available and if supporting the charity isn’t enough to make you snap up a ticket, boyband 5ive are headlining the entertainment! Tickets here.

Just don’t be late!

 

 

 

 

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Aug 06 2016
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Adventure Time

What a week!

From a stint live on Radio City Talk to meeting entreprenuieral legend, John Drysdale at Liverpool Loves Business and finalising my plans for a bank holiday adventure thanks for a great PR event at Liverpool John Lennon Airport.
Since writing my last piece, ‘Focus’ I’ve adopted a policy of just saying yes to things, and this week it has really paid off.

I’m pleased  to report that I’m joining Radio City Talk on a more frequent basis as Liverpool Live Producer, Lizzi contacted me on Thursday to chat live on air about my digital detox. 

I’ll be chatting to Mick as a panel member and newspaper reviewer over the coming weeks and as we all know I love the sound of my own voice, there’s bound to be some hilarity going on. Catch me on Monday between 12 and 1pm. 


I’m also working with a brilliant Liverpool designer, Coco & Veve as owner Ria launches a brand spanking new concession with Rex retail, Bold Street. More on this after I’ve tried on her entire collection next week! 

Liverpool Loves Business inspired me to push on with my freelance dream this week as the line up of influential speakers at this years festival was better than ever!

It was standing room only at the Crowne Plaza conference rooms and I’m over the moon to have finally met Noguru MD, John Drysdale. 

Huge congrats Josh and the team at Orb CIC for another hugely successful event.

The Liverpool Loves 2016 festival continues today with a superb line up of culture, music, well-being and food, down on the Pier Head.

It’s completely free and geared towards the whole family. All you need to know in one handy 3 min video from The Guide Liverpool here. 

I’m heading on down for an afternoon of local bands, great food and to sample the prosecco bar! Perfect Saturday right?! 


My bank holiday adventure is set. Well at least the first flight is and I’m free-wheeling it from there!

As a single mum of three the vast majority of my days are planned down to the very last minute, so having the opportunity to just book and flight and ‘see what happens’ really is the ultimate adventure for me. 

On Thursday 25th August I’m Paris bound. The rest is up to fate!

If anyone has any suggestions on what connecting flights to catch or what attractions to see, things to do, drop me a line katereillyjames@gmail.com 

Have a fab weekend! 

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Jul 10 2016
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The BMD:Law Liverpool Fashion & Beauty Awards 2016

I’ve been banging on about the FAB awards for a few weeks now as not only was I attending in an official capacity (I’m a proper journo now) but also because I’d agreed to walk the catwalk just five days before the event and I was absolutely bricking it.

In the blink of an eye it felt like it was all over, when in actual fact the evening consisted of 9 hours of non-stop laughing, applauding, cheering, catwalking, eating, prosecco swigging fun.

In case you’ve been living under a rock, this is what the BMD:Law Liverpool Fashion & Beauty Awards are all about. The science bit….

The Liverpool Fashion & Beauty Awards is an extension of the hugely popular Liverpool Lifestyle Award which was set up 8 years ago to support small and independent businesses within the region.

Since then it has grown so big that a separate ceremony was required to cope with the demand of the fashion and beauty industry in which Liverpool is widely recognised as the UK leader.

The awards took place at The Function Suite and Fusion nightclub, Fleet street last night, as over 200 guests and nominees attended to claim one of the 19 awards on offer.

With categories such as: Best Beauty Blogger, Best Small Beauty Clinic, Best Fashion Designer, Best Independent Hair Salon and Best Training Provider, competition has been fierce.

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As you might expect, those working in the fashion and beauty industry, don’t do things by half and the stunning array of jewelled gowns and high end outfits on display  wouldn’t have looked out of place at the Oscars.

Event organiser, Amanda Moss began proceedings in the first of three outfits (a fabulous princess style dress in deep purple, sweetheart neckline and an endless organza underskirt) as hosts, Amanda Harrington ( wearing a floor length white and silver gown) and Reggie Phillips announced the first of the evenings winners.

Backstage, local designer Love Laura began prepping models for their swimwear catwalk show, and Relish catering staff took to the floor with pretty plated starters.

The evening entertainment came courtesy of a live set from Jake Bowness and later Sophia Spencer, plus two spectacular (and really friendly) burlesque style performers and of course the spectacle that was me attempting to strut my stuff in a collection from St Helen’s based boutique, L’avitta. (If I could put a monkey hiding his eyes emoji here, I would)

Luckily the other four girls I was walking with were total pro’s! Bianca, Juliet, Kim and Bev were such a good laugh and shared their experience which helped to settle my nerves. Kudos to the unflappable catwalk manager Natalie, who as part of the Amanda Moss PR fashion family that runs Liverpool and Manchester Fashion Week, was on hand to ensure everything ran smoothly.

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Photographer extraordinaire, Ian Williams was a friendly face at the end of the high shine, LED catwalk (which I was convinced I was going to slip on) and when the time came to face the (lets say slightly tipsy ) crowd, I felt more relaxed looking down the camera lens.

As the opening bars of Beyonce’s anthem ‘All The Single Ladies’ rang out (how apt?), it was show time! I put my best foot forward, tried to not laugh, and strutted to the end of the catwalk. Thank you Sophie and Holly, of Move Residential for cheering like full on groupies as I shashayed past, you both really helped calm my nerves.

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Within three minutes, it was done! Five days of fretting, and I absolutely loved it!

After wolfing down a filling, three course meal of parma ham, chicken and mango cheesecake, the Corkys and table wines were devoured and the prosecco was free-flowing as more and more winners were announced to huge cheers from the audience.

I have to say huge congrats to Nicole Francis who won Best Beauty Treatment, and was also my best dressed lady of the evening. Fellow table 11 dweller, Nicole is a Director at Lip Couture Liverpool and wore a stunning floor length gown that featured hand-sewn jewels and a kick flare hem line. She looked stunning!

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Once dinner was done and we’d belted out a few ballads alongside vocalist Sophia Spencer, I sneaked back into the photo booth for yet more selfies with fellow The Guide Liverpool writer, Dale Roberts as the dj set-up for the after party.

I met some ridiculously talented people, from doctors, athesticians and singers to fashion designers, models and make up artists. Oh and don’t forget the bevvy of local celebs such as the very lovely Claire Simmo from Radio City 2. (My opening line was ” Oooh I stalk you on social media Claire” insert another monkey emoji here!)

Huge congratulations to Amanda Moss and event sponsor Bernadette McDonald of BMD:Law. The evening was a fun-filled celebration of the best our local, independent businesses has to offer.

With an unbeatable, friendly atmosphere it felt like being at a family wedding than a room filled with strangers.

I’ve uploaded all my images from the BMD:Law Liverpool Fashion & Beauty Awards 2016.(Most of which are blurry selfies) to my gallery. The event hashtag is #itsthelawtobefab so check out all the pics from guests on instagram and twitter!

For the official photo’s of the event, head to http://www.liverpoolfashionandbeautyawards.co.uk to check out Ian Williams’ stunning photography.

I’ve also submitted my official article to various regional news outlets too, so keep everything crossed for publishing!

 

 

 

 

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Jul 08 2016
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Best Foot Forward

I have set myself another challenge this weekend and the nerves have officially kicked in, big style.

I’m struggling to eat and that nervous, butterfly stomach feeling just wont leave me alone. Alright, so I’m not skydiving or bungee jumping or doing anything physically dangerous, but my self confidence is taking a real beating.

It all started on Sunday morning, as I tend to get myself involved in all manner of random things when I’m up at 5am with no school run to distract me.

I’m reporting on the, sold out BMD Law Liverpool Fashion & Beauty Awards this Saturday and I’d emailed organiser, Amanda Moss to see how prep was going, at the same time runway manager, Natalie put a call out for a model size 12/14 as she’d had a late cancellation.

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Being naturally helpful, I offered up the contacts who had walked for Natalie before, but at late notice they had prior engagements. So, yep, you guessed it. I uttered the immortal words: “I’ll have a crack at it” and so a catwalk challenge was born.

Firstly I thought this would make for great viewing for my social media accounts. Reporting live from backstage at catwalk show, showing viewers the real prep, the models and of course, the collections. Actually walking the catwalk would give me extra scope to write about the industry and its age-old size issues.

Secondly I’m more likely to do a Carrie and fall on my face, like fashion road-kill while a pro steps over me which could create a YouTube vid that goes viral, adding to my social media presence, but for all the wrong reasons.

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It’s now Friday morning, and the nerves have really kicked in. I’ve had my nails done and hair coloured, but I’ve not magically dropped two stone and toned up in the five days since I agreed to take part.

In real terms I can walk from one place to another with relative ease, but I am the most accident prone person in the world so there’s a good chance of a trip. I’m not a natural scouse princess either, tan doesn’t suit me and my brows are just my own, but I’m hoping Emma Lampkin’s MUA team can help me blend in for the occasion.

I am coming to terms with the fact that this is me, and after watching what feels like hours of ‘How to Walk Like A Runway Model’ tutorials, I’m going to walk from one side of a room to another, exactly as I am. Head up, shoulders back, one foot in front of the other.

One thing that has to be said for fashion shows in the North West, and kudos to the organisers far and wide, is that fashion is accessible here. It’s not about pretentious shows for frowers and celebrities. The events are about celebrating talent and creativity in all its forms.

I just hope Saturday’s guests bear that in mind as I sashay all Phoebe-From-Friends-Running-like.

Catch my live updates from 5pm on my Facebook & Twitter accounts http://www.facebook.com/katereillyjames and  @Katereillyjames

Wish me luck!

 

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Apr 04 2016
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The Lord Mayor of Liverpool Spring Fashion Show 2016

The 2nd Annual Lord Mayor’s Spring Fashion Show took place at the Devonshire House Hotel, Edge Lane on Thursday night.

A wealth of home-grown talent brought the charity event to life with every aspect of the show, from hair and make-up to the designers and models, native to the North West.

The Lord Mayor, Councillor Tony Concepcion and his wife Ann greeted guests and thanked the audience for turning out to support their chosen charities, Ronald McDonald House at Alder Hey, Kind and Listersteps. IMG_6737

The Lord Mayor gave a passionate speech about the importance of helping local families to cope with difficult situations and how the kind and compassionate people of Liverpool is what makes the city so great.

The catwalk kicked off with sumptuous velvet evening gowns from Karen Gold. Erica Wildflower, Julie Kaye and Ria Jewels completed the first half of the show with unique collections featuring festival kaftans, Woodstock style summer wear and funky club wear.

Singer Sophia Spencer wowed the audience during the interval with her smooth, soulful vocals as guests were given the chance to browse a selection of exhibitor stands selling designer accessories, jewellery and cosmetics.

The second half of the show was dedicated to emerging talent as art students at the City of Liverpool College and Holly Lodge Girls’ College, got their first taste of the Liverpool Fashion scene.

The Mad Hatters of Holly Lodge, who were kindly funded by the Liverpool Decorative and Fine Art Society, were the youngest designers to debut a collection on the professional catwalk, and they did not disappoint.

With just four months to master the tricky skill of hat making, or millinery, the year 12 and 13 students stepped up to the challenge, supported by a fantastic teaching team and created 15 weird and wacky pieces from a Medusa-style snake headdress and top hat to a snow-globe Alice-band and a bejewelled peacock skull cap.

Directed and produced by a winning partnership between Amanda Moss PR and The Lord Mayors Charity Committee, both of which are dedicated to providing opportunities for the city’s young people, the event was a great success with funds raised through ticket sales and raffles on the night.

Lots of photo’s in the Gallery section here. Thank you to Emma Lampkin for allowing me to share her images.

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Feb 27 2016
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A Mother’s Day Extravaganza

Fresh from a stint in the boxing ring raising funds for the James Bulger Memorial Trust, charity Ambassador Kirsty Lucas shows no signs of stopping as she puts the finishing touches to a Mother’s Day fashion extravaganza.

Kingdom nightclub, Harrington Street, will play host to ‘It’s a Liverpool Thing’, a jam packed evening of home-grown talent to raise much needed funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Fundraiser Flyer

Kirsty, who recently lost her Nan to cancer decided to organise the event as a tribute.

She said:” I thought it was a good idea to turn a negative into a positive.

“The Mother’s Day event will be a lovely evening out for all those glam mum’s in the city as well as helping to raise money for Macmillan, who were so supportive to me and my family.

“Cancer touches everyone and we’d like to give something back.”

The entertainment line-up is full to the brim with fashion shows from Liverpool designers such as Jake Nuttall and Erica Wildflower spring collections and live music from The Ambition, Red and Merseyrail Sound Station winner, Lewis Maxwell.

A pop-up store from Harvey Nicholls will be offering free mini treatments on the night alongside prize-draw raffles and a delicious buffet courtesy of Munchies catering.

Kirsty, of Liverpool based cake sculpters, Ps, Don’t Forget the Cake, is determined to stage yet another successful fundraising event following on from a night of amateur boxing at Fusion, Fleet Street, last Friday.

She said:” Cancer touches everyone, not only families but also friends and the wider community and this fundraiser is our way of giving something back.”

Why not treat your mum to something different this Mother’s Day, indulge in a little glamour and help raise funds for Macmillan, tickets are available on the door at Kingdom, priced at £5.

The event starts at 5pm and is strictly over 18’s only.

 

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Oct 22 2015
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Like A Boss

I make no apology for writing (once again) about how awesome women are. That’s not to say guys aren’t amazing too (especially Michael Fassbender, Corey Parker and Eddie Redmayne to name a select few) I’m totally pro-equality….however over the last few weeks of my college course, I’ve met some seriously incredible women.

A woman I met a couple of weeks ago is 8 months pregnant and has a toddler running around with her 24/7. Already exhausting right? Now add into the mix the fact that this lady is a ridiculously talented, original, clothing designer and decided during the latter stages of pregnancy to design, create and debut her collection at her first ever fashion week……toddler in tow! All the while she looked stunning, form fitting wrap dresses, beautifully braided hair and tailored dress coats….and heels….and she nailed it! Hats off to you Taya.

The second woman, or should I say women I want to tell you about are artists too. They run a phenomenal initiative and pop up store called OneArt. Every few months they move into a different store space at Liverpool One and revamp it themselves, rollers and Dulux emulsion at the ready!. After all that manual labor they then display their own and other local artists creations for the lovely people of Liverpool and beyond to buy. All the while they are consistently creating new spaces for local artists to sell their unique artwork, jewelry and ceramics. Freida, Karen and Katherine…you rock!

Childsplay Clothing Liverpool Fashion Week 2015

I can’t write about influential women without mentioning Fashion Week event organiser and mum of SIX…Amanda Moss. I’m absolutely convinced she doesn’t sleep, and if she does it must be standing up with her eyes open planning awards and auditioning models. Amanda always has time for a catch up and develops events and gatherings that encourages others to shine…..Patron Saint of Multi-tasking like a boss!

And to my female family, friends, old school mates and women I stalk…I mean follow, on twitter…seeing and hearing you achieve stuff makes me want to up my game, try harder, stop making excuses. From my friend Leah who, without fail hits the gym everyday at 6am and wakes me up with her motivational Instagram post….to an old school mate (and birthday twin) Hayley who despite having two teeny boys looks a million dollars wondering around Sainsburys doing her shopping. So much love and respect for my relative who is caring for her elderly mother who suffers from dementia and yet always makes it home to put dinner on the table…. and to my Caroline who has supported me tirelessly while I try and become the writer/journalist I always wanted to be.

Surrounding yourself with people who inspire you, make you laugh and support you is such a simple yet effective way to feel comfortable in your own skin. With so much opportunity on our door step that is freely accessible to women now its no wonder we’re unstoppable.

Here’s to you girls!

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Oct 12 2015
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The Childsplay Clothing Liverpool Fashion Week 2015: Launch Night

It’s still just about Monday night and I’m blogging  late due to basically having an awesome time at the fashion week launch night. Once again champion of local talent Amanda Moss put on a sensational show at The Liner Hotel and alongside the catwalk shows there was a whole host of local businesses, charities and photographers all adding to the electric atmosphere. 

 Designers of note; Childsplay Clothing, Erica Wildflower, Threads by North West Design Works, John Lewis.

Music: Oh Deary Me (Jamie & Jake) The Pynes, Juice FM Home Run

I’ve added my pics to the gallery page (more from photographer Alex Ford here)  

Read my official review now at http://www.purplerevolver.com

Stop by tomorrow for the Emerging Designers night review and pics.

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Sep 18 2015
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Foul Ball

It’s been a whirlwind couple of weeks but its official, I’m a trainee journalist. I’ve spent my days immersed in short hand, public affairs, media law and news reporting. I’ve learned abbreviations such as IPSO and PCC and I can recite all 16 clauses of the Editors Code of Practise. Among the intense learning I also ran my first ever half marathon, The Great North Run and somehow managed to get three kids into childcare by 8am every day for a fortnight….and I’ve loved every minute of it.

I wish I could go back in time and visit 17 year old me and say ‘Stop being a gobby show off, embrace your love of English language and literature and focus on carving out a career for yourself….oh and lay off those Bacardi Breezers’  Would I have listened? I doubt it very much, I knew everything back then. 17 year old me

Fast forward 16 years and I’m slowly starting to feel like I’ve got my life together. I have a natural flair for chatting to people and engaging with businesses, so my next challenge is…..local sport! Tomorrow I’m spending the afternoon at Sefton RUFC to learn everything there is to know about rugby union (or proper rugby as my Dad calls it). I’m currently sat listening to the first match of the Rugby World Cup, England Vs Fiji in an attempt to naturally soak up some of the terminology and international players names! It’s not really working. I’m also making an appearance at not one, but two Liverpool golf clubs this weekend, again an attempt at on-the-job learning! I’m taking bets on how many injuries I’m going to sustain by Sunday dinner time?!i heart footy

The reason I’ve taken on sport it because it’s totally out of my comfort zone. I’m happy to sit and watch premiership games at the weekend, but (dare i say it,) I’m neither red nor blue. I really enjoy F1, Athletics and international Cricket. But Rugby, Golf and Snooker…….zzzzzzzzz. So I’ve gone way out of my comfort zone and I kind of figured that if I can accurately write up a 90/80 minute match while its unfolding right in front of me, I should have no problems with an equally fast-paced Fashion Week catwalk show…right?

I’ve resorted to watching some Youtube video’s on match commentary to help calm my nerves….that didn’t really work out either as most of them are hilarious. I must be more professional….. I wonder if I could get away with just shouting ‘a$$hole’ after each goal like this guy?https://youtu.be/wvnydzZXBEI

I’ll let you know how I get on!

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Jul 29 2015
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The Dress Agency CIC

The Dress Agency CIC is like no other clothing store I’ve come across before. I’m going to do you a huge favour and pass on the info about this little diamond of a thrift shop! You’ll be unable to thank me enough if you love high end, good quality labels such as Burberry and Vivienne Westwood at ridiculously low prices. Plus the added bonus is The Dress Agency CIC invests its profits back into the local community, so essentially you’re making the world a better place by shopping! Yay, go you!

 I was enticed into the shop by a window display showcasing an outfit Jackie O or Marilyn would have rocked in their hey day. The handmade salmon pink halter dress, made from fabric printed with ladies in cloche hats, flared beautifully from the waist, complimented by pale pink courts and a fresh white ladies umbrella to battle the turbulent weather. A clever use of colour against the grey backdrop of the looming clouds and slick tarmac. Next to the ensemble sat a pair of black Converse mid boots, a black spotted dress with a draped long-line pink lounge jacket and a popart style handbag, possibly Paul’s Boutique?! I had you at Jackie O, right?

The Dress Agency has expanded massively over the last three years which speaks volumes about how people are shopping for clothes in 2015. The main store compromises three street level rooms with rack upon rack of garments, shoes, handbags and jewelry plus a newly converted basement level that is beautifully designed to show off a huge vintage collection, including feathered hats and gloves against the backdrop of the original Smith fire range, exposed brick and coal chute. Eeeee they don’t make them like that anymore! (must be said in a geordie accent for full effect)

Owner, Leah Hobson was kind enough to explain just how a CIC led business works and allowed me to take a few photo’s of my favourite pieces currently in stock. (Its fair to say we also spent over an hour discussing favourite labels, The Bowes Museum YSL event and why Mulberry changed their design fob from silver to bronze…..I know…random)

  What is a CIC I hear you cry? Its basically a community interest company. Leah invites clients to bring in good quality clothing and accessories which when sold, The Dress Agency takes an agreed cut and reinvests that profit into training and employment opportunities for local people. Leah has connections all over the North of England and provides a friendly service to those seeking specialist items such as prom dresses and 1970’s vintage wedding gowns to original embroidered velour lounge suits (think more Golden Girls and less Juicy Couture).

After trying on every Burberry Mac and Irregular Choice shoe in my size I dragged myself back out onto the Barnard Castle high street. If you live in the North East and love fashion you simply must go visit The Dress Agency. I’ve added more photos to my Inspiration page….you can find them here.

Friends in the North West….we need a Dress Agency all of our own…..who’s with me?! 

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Jul 21 2015
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Friday Night Thrift

Guys and girls of the world wide interweb…I need your help. No…no…I don’t want money….nor do I want to take up your spare time to wash cars, bake cakes or sell raffle tickets…..but I do want your old clothes….or rather the lovely people at Wex and Golden Square Coffee on Wood Street, Liverpool do for their charity clothing drive and sale.

I would love to see you on Friday 24th July from 7pm with a big ol’ bag of great quality unwanted men’s or women’s clothing of any size. 100% of the profits are going to Liverpool‘s leading homeless and housing charity,The Whitechapel Centre, and what they cant sell online they will donate to their charity shop…which opens soon. The Whitechapel Centre do a phenomenal job helping those in need of support in our great city. From their open access center offering showers, laundry services and breakfast to a safe place to sleep and ongoing housing support. The center have posted on their Facebook page asking for any good quality shirts and suits that might just give someone the confidence they need to attend an interview…and get the ball rolling towards a brighter future.  IMG_5356

So, whats that you say?…..Summer holidays….no baby sitter…..girls night out……date night with your bae……no bother at all. If you have a pair of jeans, any sports wear, shirts, suits basically anything with plenty of wear left in it….any size….drop me a line and I’ll come and collect it. It takes as much effort as making a cuppa to have a quick rifle through your wardrobe and fire me a quick email or whatsapp to arrange collection (Within the Liverpool area only) Minimal effort….maximum effect!

Also, if Friday is date night and you’ve not yet made plans, swing by Golden Square Coffee, pull up a pew, soak up the atmosphere, live music, DJ’s and craft beers…right in the heart of the city center…. or if you love vintage fashion, one of a kind garments or simply a bargain…come take a look…..I’ll see you there.

If you’d like to know more about any of the organisations involved click here.

Thanks in advance you lovely lot!

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