O U T F I T | Ziggy Stardust

Photography: Fordtography

Last week it was my 25th birthday, so I headed back home to East London for a few days to indulge in excessive drinking, eating and vintage shopping. Every time I'm in London I like to take advantage of the endless vintage and record shops that line the streets. In Southampton, despite being a relatively cultural and creative city, unfortunately there's not much of a vintage scene.
One of my favourite vintage haunts to visit when I'm at home is Brick Lane. Maybe it's because I'm an East London native, but I just prefer Brick Lane's vintage offerings to that of West London's Portobello Road. Also, the fact it's a fifteen minute train journey from home helps factor in that favouritism too! 
Last Saturday I met for coffee, catch up and photos with the lovely blogger/photographer wonder woman, Kaye. We originally met at the European Bartending School cocktail masterclass last month (more on that incredible event soon!), stayed in touch and decided to shoot an outfit whilst I was back in the city.
We met inside Rough Trade, which is located on Dray Walk, Brick Lane. To change up the regular uniform outfit post, we decided to shoot inside the store whilst window shopping through it's diverse and extensive record collection.
This outfit was subconsciously inspired by Bowie. I was so, so unbelievably torn up when I was awoken on the day of his death earlier this month. Bowie has always been both a fashion and music muse to me. His ever-changing identity throughout his career and show stopping outfits have definitely played a part in my own style identity despite the likes of Ziggy Stardust and Aladdin Sane being way before my time on earth.
This particular vintage, trophy, sequin, celestial jacket that I picked up on Depop last year is something I feel Bowie would definitely approve of. Sometimes if you're lucky you may spot a striking vintage piece amongst a sea of shoulder pads and granny floral tea dresses. This jacket was one of those pieces that will always remain an absolute favourite of mine and I will show it off as a proud achievement much like a trophy. I'll still be rocking it well into my sixties! It just so happens that my ASOS Reward boots match my dream jacket almost perfectly.
Have you been to Brick Lane before? If so, what are your favourite spots?

FOLLOW ME: BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

13

H A I R | The Hair Growth Diaries is BACK!

A large percentage of my time is spent moaning about the snail pace at which my hair grows or doesn't grow. It gets to a point just above my boobs and it JUST STOPS. It's infuriating, especially when I have a younger sister whose hair sits at her hip bones. Seriously, why was I not born with the hair growth genes? She's got plenty to share.

I started a series named 'The Hair Growth Diaries' a few years ago that I never continued with. I only trialled Alpecin Caffeine shampoo, which worked incredibly well but ruined the condition of my mane. My intention was to trial all of the hair growth remedies out there to determine what was no more than an old wive's tale and what actually worked. My hair still sits at that awkward length beneath my collar bone, so I'm bringing The Hair Growth Diaries back.

I've compiled a list of remedies and hair care products to try on my hair growth journey that includes: Hairburst supplements, Sea Kelp, eating jelly cubes, hair growth shampoos, head massages and other home concoctions and potions with natural ingredients.

As well as those willing their hair to grow into mermaid locks, I believe the series could also be useful for those experiencing hair loss. 

Have you tried or heard of any hair growth remedies I can put to the test? Maybe you'll join me on this mermaid locks journey?

FOLLOW ME: BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

0

O U T F I T | Peacock Coat

Coat: Story of Lola via ASOS // Hat: ASOS // Scarf: Zara // Top: Urban Outfitters // Jeans: ASOS // Shoes: Zara

Say 'hello' to the most wonderful coat in the world.

This Story of Lola faux fur peacock coat is the second coat from the brand that sits comfortably on my jacket rail. In fact, the previous pastel dream coat I shot for an outfit post wayyyy back in 2014. Story of Lola did release the peacock coloured coat at the same time I bought my pastel one, but I just couldn't justify buying two crazy colourful jackets within the same week. Predictably it eventually sold out and I was heartbroken.

Luckily this year they re-issued the peacock design on ASOS, but this time they designed a longer jacket. A longer faux fur suited my needs a lot better and I couldn't help myself when it went into the sale. Unfortunately it is sold out now, but it's worth keeping an eye out on ASOS in case Story of Lola add any more rainbow technicolour dream coats to their online collection!


SHOP THE LOOK:

FOLLOW ME: BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

11

F O O D | The White Star Tavern, Southampton Review

Last week, James and myself were invited along to The White Star Tavern to sample their evening menu. 
In all my years living in Southampton, I had only been to The White Tavern once before last Friday, but that was only for a quick coffee, so I was rather excited to indulge in some of the mouthwatering meals they had to offer. We both spent the week before looking over the menu time and time again, counting down the days until dinner.
The White Star Tavern is highly commended and has been recognised for its use of local sourced ingredients with the majority of its produce coming straight out of Hampshire and the New Forest. For this, it humbly boasts 2 AA rosettes. 
The Tavern itself is situated on Oxford Street, which is the destination in this south coast city for a cosmopolitan vibe, good food and an upbeat night life. It sits less than ten minutes walking distance of the city centre yet is a far cry from the student dominated atmosphere that holds the rest of the city.
Upon our arrival we were greeted by a lively, comfortably busy bar that was alive with that typical, after work, Friday night atmosphere. We were lucky enough to walk in during the middle of a live act who was belting out some pretty impressive cover songs whilst we indulged in our starter course.
The dining area was tucked away from the crowded bar in the back of the tavern. We were greeted straightaway without any waiting time and were shown immediately to our seats. Now, James and myself are pretty indecisive as a couple. Even though we had studied the menu pretty thoroughly the entire week beforehand in anticipation, we still had not fully decided on what we wanted to eat.
Our waiter, Kyle, was really lovely and patient with us. He brought us out some olives & bread to accompany our wine whilst we 'umm-ed' and 'ahh-ed' over the menu. I mean, we were brought out a specials menu, as well as the standard dining menu. That changed the game completely! 
Starter Course:
The opening dishes are fashionably small tasters, which leave room for the much bigger mains. I opted for the visually striking and colourful salted baked & pickled beetroot salad that was sprinkled with a light topping of goat's cheese. I find it difficult to pass up any dish with an appearance of goat's cheese in; I just can't get enough of it. It absolutely did not disappoint either as it was lovely and light, making the perfect nibble to get your taste buds going.
James eventually chose the ham hock and pork terrine with celeriac remoulade and spotted spiced apple ketchup. Once again, it was a visually striking dish that was laid out wonderfully. Now the ham hock and pork terrine was not to my taste, but James wholly enjoyed it and sang its praises whilst eating.

Main Course:
When it came to choosing the mains, we were absolutely spoilt for choice. Of course if there's a burger on the menu at least one of us has to try it out for BURGERFACE (you can read his review there). James happily took the role of official burger tester, whilst I was taken by the sound of the rib-eye steak accompanied by parmesan and truffle fries.
I like my steak medium rare, so it's brown on the outside with a splash of vibrant, succulent pink on the inside. However, when I ask for medium rare it's well... RARE that it's ever cooked to my taste. I was pleasantly surprised when I cut into my 8oz rib-eye that it was cooked and seasoned to perfection. It was so good that it certainly stepped up to rival Rancho's (our local steakhouse) offerings. The fries that were topped with parmesan and had the delicate taste of truffle were so delicious that we've decided to add parmesan to our own homemade fries more often.

Dessert:
We reluctantly accepted the offer of the dessert menu, because at this point we were suitably full. However, I could not resist the pull of an option on the special menu fittingly named 'Death by Chocolate'. As a self-confessed chocolate lover (seriously, I could eat a mound of chocolate until I am physically sick - I have no restraint), I could not pass up the opportunity to at least sample a bite despite my stomach telling me 'No Leigh. NO MORE FOOD.' James, on the other hand, wimped out and opted for a New Forest selection of colourful sorbets.
Now, the sorbets were delicious and cleansing after a heavy meal, but 'Death By Chocolate' was an absolute masterpiece. I am gutted that I couldn't get a truly great photo of it as I'm still getting to grips with my Olympus PEN. Delivered to our table was the most spectacular and showy dessert that had been built in the shape of a coffin topped with a vanilla parfait skull. With a pile up of pistachio brownie, chocolate crumb, caramelised puff pastry, vanilla parfait and a dashing of raspberry coulis it's fair to say this dessert was aptly named. 
It was absolutely sensational. The flavours fell into place perfectly. In fact, I even exclaimed it was "probably the best dessert I've ever had". Although it was sickly sweet, the portion size was perfect and it went down a treat!

Our evening at The White Star Tavern was highly enjoyable and the food was wonderful. If you're looking for a restaurant in Southampton then do consider The White Star Tavern.
FOLLOW ME: BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

*Disclaimer: We were invited for a complimentary meal at The White Star Tavern in exchange for an honest review - it really was that delicious!

1

W A N T | January Wishlist

Pose Yoga Mat | As I mentioned in my Welcoming 2016 blog post, one of this year's goals is to re-discover yoga. I had a brief stint of yoga classes during university, but they were cut short due to a pricey membership I couldn't keep up with. I absolutely love yoga whilst I was learning and really want to pick up where I left off. A brand new yoga mat might give me the motivation I need!
Lightbox Lamp | I am crazy for homewares at the moment. I think I'm going through a 'nesting phase' despite to owning my own home. This light box lamp allows you to change your message as often as you please! Also, A Lovely Little Company stock extra sets of symbols and characters to add on to your light box.
Chopard Sunglasses | I recently found out I needed glasses for working on the computer and reading. As I'm off on holiday in a few weeks (YIPEEEE!), I've been looking at prescription sunnies that will cater for when I plan to kick back with a cocktail in my hand and catch up with some reading on the beach. I absolutely adore the seventies, oversized style of these frames. I mean, they're seventies influenced, come on... how could I not love them?!
Frends Taylor Headphones in Rose Gold | I'm a stereotypical basic blogger bitch when it comes to copper and rose gold. I can't get enough of it. I'm due a new, fancy pair of headphones as I only own those flimsy Apple ones that come with your iPhone.
The Little Pocket Book of Crystal Tips & Cures | Crystal healing and properties is always something that has drawn me. I currently have a small, but humble collections of mesmerising crystals but I'm yet to educate myself of their power. This book seems like the ideal first step for crystal novices like myself.
Hamsa Hand Tapestry | I need this tapestry for nothing other than aesthetic reasons. It's just so, so pretty.
Hemsley + Hemsley Spiralizer | I would really love to be a little more experimental and exciting with what I eat this year. As someone who is a little sensitive to gluten goodness, but is besotted with pasta, I'd love to test out vegetable based pasta dishes as an alternative.
FOLLOW ME: BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

2

S P O T L I G H T | Freedom To Exist Watches

Freedom To Exist (FTE) watches are the new cool wrist candy brand on the block. In fact, it looks like they're well on their way to becoming the next 'blogger watch' of 2016 as they're currently plastered all over everyone's Instagram feeds. I mean, it's not surprising, as FTE watches have adapted such classic, timeless designs that are wearable for every day life.
I was lucky enough to be sent one of the first ever FTE watches upon their launch late last year. This black and gold minimalist watch caught my attention on the website instantly. It's unlike the rest of my watch collection, as most of my timepieces have lighter faces. Also, another aspect that drew me to them is that they are designed to fit a range of wrists including ladies with extra small wrists. My wrists are unusually petite, so I often have to have my watches adapted to fit properly. However, the strap has extra holes so this watch fits perfectly.
What do you think of FTE watches?

FOLLOW ME: BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

4

O U T F I T | The Hippie Shake

Dress*: The Hippie Shake // Hat: Boot Sale // Velvet Scarf: Zara // Belt*: Beyond Retro // Jacket*: Beyond Retro // Boots: New Look (old) // Rucksack: New Look (old) 
After a month of avoiding it, I've shot a new outfit post - oh yeaaahhhh!
 I decided to give myself a kick up the backside (and a kick up James' to act as photographer) and get back in front of the camera. As I've mentioned previously, I've been battling a few self-esteem demons that have kept me from wanting to have my photo taken. However, I strongly believe we should do at least one thing that scares us every single week; this week it was having my photo taken in a public place.
 Annoyingly just as we were about to leave, the heavens opened and we had a sudden downpour of rain and hailstones. Luckily they stopped around an hour before sunset when we managed to snap these photos. I cannot wait until the spring when the days start getting a little longer, so all of this blog shooting before it's too dark malarkey is a bit easier.
 Just before Christmas a surprise package arrived at my doorstep from The Hippie Shake. Inside was this seventies, mid-length, paisley dress and a wonderful crochet waistcoat. The Hippie Shake, an online emporium of 70's and bohemian vintage, is the creation of super babe Naomi from Two Shoes, One Pair. She pretty much has my style down to a tee, so I was over the moon with both pieces when I unwrapped them.
If you're a fellow seventies soul sista, head on over to The Hippie Shake! I take no responsibility for you spending all of this month's savings though.


FOLLOW ME: BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

5

O U T F I T | Winter In Victoria Park

Photography: KIP Photography

Last month whilst I was visiting London for the festive period I shot some outfit photos with the wonderfully talented Kit. I've put off shooting outfits as of lately, even though personal style is the predominant focus of this entire blog,  but it's simply down to a huge lack of self-esteem. Moving forward into 2016, self-esteem issues are something I am trying my upmost best to defeat. 
I wanted to make a point to shoot an outfit that wasn't at all sponsored. When I first started Fox & Feather (back then it was known as Fox Tales) it was filled with my passion for vintage and ethical thrifted styling. I would post outfit combinations that were head-to-toe charity shop finds or would talk through my recent vintage discoveries. To this day, I still buy the majority of my clothing from secondhand shops and a large percentage of my wardrobe is true vintage. Nowadays it can get a little overwhelming looking at that 'to blog' pile in the corner of the room. Of course, I still make sure every brand I work with is suited to my style and I am beyond the realms of grateful for every opportunity I am thrown. Like so, SO grateful. I just feel sometimes the heart and soul of this blog gets lost a little somewhere along the way as I don't seem to be able to find the time to shoot outfits I adore that I've bought myself between the deadlines. 
This entire outfit and blog post is not for a brand or is in no way sponsored. I shot it simply because I really, really loved my new 70's vintage dress that I had just purchased from Waiste Vintage. I suppose you could call me hypocritical, as the boots were actually gifted to me many years ago by a brand called DUO Boots who cease to exist nowadays, but I genuinely adore them and have worn them to death since they arrived. The tan, suede, fringed duster length jacket was from a flea market in Amsterdam and only cost me around €30! Amsterdam is a hub of vintage hot spots, which is one of the reasons I'm desperate to go back with an empty suitcase. It could be said I have one too many fringed, suede jackets but I can never stop myself picking out a new one.
This 2016, as well as creating some wonderful relationships and collaborations with brands, I also intend to paint Fox & Feather with ideas inspired by it's beginnings. Let's think charity shop hauls, secondhand shopping tips, vintage alterations, retro living, vintage styling and anything else that may come to mind! 
What do you think?

FOLLOW ME: BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

6

S P O T L I G H T | Estella Bartlett Jewellery

Necklaces*: Estella Bartlett

Choosing jewellery for someone can be a difficult task. Especially if that person is me. As someone who is wholly taken by brash statement jewellery, it's hard finding a more simple design that caters to my taste and is suitable for everyday wear. It's because of my bold jewellery collection that I often tend to not bother accessorising certain outfits.

There are dozens upon dozens of little trinkets and treasures over at Estella Bartlett with a host of unusual pendants from unicorns to pineapples, and even have a pug pendant necklace. I opted to add a couple of simplistic yet elegant EB treasures to my jewellery collection that includes a whimsical, gold-plated wishbone necklace and semi-precious stone necklace. Both are completely wearable with almost any outfit without too much thought, which is exactly what I needed to accompany my wardrobe.

What are your thoughts?

FOLLOW ME: BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

3

S O U L | Reflecting Upon 2015 & Welcoming 2016.

2015 was a funny old year.

I could flippantly say it sucked. Like, really sucked. At the start of the year I was suddenly made redundant the day before I was due to go on holiday. It came as a blow out of nowhere and it really threw me off track for quite a while. 

I had the intention of saving to travel, because that is what my heart is truly yearning for... that never happened. 

I wanted to be more confident in my body... instead, I jumped up two dress sizes after a summer of eating and boozing. I was probably at the biggest I've ever been and my confidence hit an all-time low meaning I couldn't even bare to take blog photos of myself meaning I utterly despised my content.

But, it's funny how we automatically remember the bad over the good and somehow the bad will always outweighs the good. Even if your year is full of wonderful things, it takes one undesirable event for you to write the whole year off. At least that's how my frame of mind seems to work, anyway. That is something I am desperate to change.

No, I didn't save a penny to travel as cheeky ASOS splurges are just too tempting, but just because I didn't save in 2015 doesn't mean that dream is over. After all, 2016 could be the year I finally get my financial butt into gear. 

Yes, I did jump up two dress sizes and it made me miserable for a while, but I had the best summer I've had to date! I hopped from festival to festival throughout the summer, eating, drinking and dancing along the way. I had one hell of a summer and wasn't even considering the extra calories every time I indulged in another cheeseburger and cider in the sun. And you know what, that feeling of not calorie counting because you're having too much fun is really fucking liberating without you even knowing it. Those extra few inches tell a story, the story of my summer of 2015. Plus, I picked myself out of my slump late into the year and start exercising again dropping some of the weight. Granted some of it has crept back on over December, but who gives a damn?! If it makes me more content in myself, if I work hard enough, I can shift it once again. 

The day I went on holiday after losing my job in February, I fell in love with another city. I can't begin to explain my feelings for Amsterdam, other than it could be my utopia. Ever since leaving it that week in February, I've felt wholly unsettled in the UK as every inch of me yearns to be back in the Dutch capital. We did return in September and my feelings remain the same. We were supposed to be visiting Barcelona that September, but could not resist the pull of the Amsterdam once again.

As I mentioned before, I festival hopped my way through the summer. The majority of those festivals were opportunities brought to me through my blog - THIS blog! Even Glastonbury Festival, which was at my own expense, I was still presented the opportunity to work with Beyond Retro. Looking back now I still can't believe how lucky I've been to work with some incredible brands at some amazing festivals. No matter how cheesy it sounds, I've taken away some beautiful memories that I'll never forget. One of my ultimate festival highlights was discovering Best Kept Secret Festival for the first time. When reflecting upon the last year, BKS festival is the first and foremost memory that James and I jump to. In some way, that weekend spent in the middle of a forest in the Netherlands was absolutely perfect.

I abandoned London and moved back to Southampton in April, which meant after a year of being one hundred odd miles apart I moved back with the boy I love *sorry for the cheese*, and from that we started something we had always talked about; we launched BURGERFACE on National Burger Day. That's right, we brought our love of burgers onto the internet. It's been really difficult to keep on top of alongside running Fox & Feather, but I'm determined to turn it around in 2016!

In August, I watched my first school pal get married in a beautiful Essex countryside ceremony, that even melted my cold heart. That day was absolutely beautiful and gave me the overwhelming sense that my friends and me were taking a significant step into adulthood.

In November, I won a holiday to Tenerife with Thomas Cook thanks to this blog post. I'm headed there in just over a month with James and I CANNOT WAIT.

2015 was not as bad as I first believed. In fact, it was pretty fucking awesome. 

2016 will be just as successful, or if not more. I am adamant. 

I know some people get in a huff over the 'new year, new me' motto and go out of their way to mock those who take this saying upon themselves. It's true, you can better yourself and way of living any single day of the year. But I, personally, do not see a problem with a collective of us bringing about positive change to our own and each other's lives  on the new calendar year. The 1st of January is the rebirth of a brand new rotation around our core, the Sun, so why can it not be a rebirth of ourselves? In fact, there's something so very encouraging and enlightening that we all almost religiously practice bettering ourselves from January 1st and support each other along the way.

These are not resolutions. If I break them or do not succeed in them, I will absolutely not feel guilty. These are ambitions of mine to see me through the next year. They are ways of introducing positive change into my life.

• Practice meditation once a day.
• Discover new music.
• Read more books.
• Continue to educate yourself; education should not stop at university. THIS WORLD IS FASCINATING!
• Draw. Paint. Create.
• Realise your creative potential.
• Create a work space for yourself.
• Continue exercising. The one time your confidence soars is after a workout.
• Stop putting off social occasions.
• Don't doubt your instinct.
• Sleep more.
• Set up a vintage shop - who knows what may happen!
• Eat well & often.
• Rediscover yoga.
• Get over your fear of starting a YouTube channel.
• Re-brand Fox & Feather.
• Focus more attention on BURGERFACE.
• Improve your photography skills.
• Save money so you can travel the world.
• Inspire at least one person.
• Go for walks & embrace nature.
• Drink more water.
• Make an effort to smile more often. Kiss more often. Laugh more often.
• Spend as much time with animals as possible for they are pure, untainted souls.
• Return to Amsterdam, it's calling you.

2016, I'm ready for you.

If you fancied a read, here are some previous years New Year posts: 2012 / 2014

BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

7

S P O T L I G H T | A Cosy Christmas Night In

I know Christmas has passed so I have to apologise for the influx of festive posts I'm catching up on. Personally, I love Christmas and plan on stretching it out as long as possible. Plus, Christmas isn't officially over until the 6th January (the twelfth day), so I'm right on schedule!
In mid-December, Wynsors, sent me a Christmassy cosy care package complete with a scrumptious salted hot chocolate, an adorable Christmas jumper mug, some scented tealights, a snowflake print fleece blanket (which the cats have since claimed) and a pair of moccasin style fringed slippers. Combine all of these sweet treats together and you've got the perfect recipe for a cosy night in! 
Even though the Christmas season is almost over, a night snuggled under a duvet with the above and a Netflix binge is something we should all indulge in all year round. In fact, I've done it every day since New Year's so far! What better way is there to enter 2016?
What's your favourite way to unwind in the evening?
FOLLOW ME: BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

3

S P O T L I G H T | Vivienne Westwood Make-Up Bag

Vivienne Westwood Make-Up Bag*: Farfetch

A few weeks before Christmas I attended a London Christmas lights tour a top a rather charming vintage bus courtesy of Farfetch. Although that particular evening the heavens decided to open whilst we were all aboard an open top bus, it was still the perfect kick start to the festive season. I did vlog the event on my brand spanking new Olympus PEN *gush*, but I haven't uploaded it yet because I'm having a bit of trouble finding some free vlog appropriate background music. Everything I've currently come across is so cringey, it makes me want to smash my head against a wall. On top of that, the sound of my own voice (and face) on film is something I'm finding hard to stop cringing over too. I think when I do, I'll just hit the upload button and run away into hiding for a few days.

MOVING ON... during the event we exchanged our Secret Santa presents that we had each chosen from Farfetch. The gorgeous Georgina chose for me and boy oh boy, did she choose well! I opened up my bag to find a pale pink Vivienne Westwood box, which inside was this wonderful black leather and copper detailed Vivienne Westwood make-up bag. I think hearts may have poured from my eyes when I first gazed upon it. 

Although I am bloody terrified to store make-up in it as all of my make-up bags end up filthy; I've had one too many foundation leak disasters. I absolutely adore it. I'll have to get over my fear of using it, otherwise it'll just end up sat looking pretty in a dust bag until the end of time. Thank you SO much to both Farfetch and Georgina for introducing this stupendous VW number into my life!

FOLLOW ME: BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

3