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| top: Jigsaw / trousers: Marks and Spencer / shoes: Clarks |
The best part about being a freelancer is that I can set my own schedule. For example, I’ve never had to work on my birthday, and this is the case this year, too.
Unfortunately, Professor M will have to work on my actual birthday (which is later this week), so he took me on a weekend trip to London to celebrate, a few days in advance.
We checked into Paddington Hilton for a relaxing weekend of shopping, dining and sunbathing on the terrace…
OK, fine, my “sunbathing” took about as along as it took to take a few photos… I’m Nordic, I’m pale, I burn in the sun, give me a break…
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| This is the view from “our terrace” |
Oh yes, the shopping… There was the Banana Republic Marimekko Collection I wanted to check out… Of course, I have numerous Marimekko items (towels, bathrobes, place mats, bags…), but I’ve never been a fan of their clothing line (just not my style). I did not expect the Banana Republic version to be any closer to my personal taste; I was just curious to see their interpretation of this Finnish Icon.
Hmm… Very different from the original, but is it better? Maybe more suited to a younger customer (the hot pants etc… well, it is also significantly more affordable than Marimekko).
Of course, even without buying anything at Banana Republic, there was plenty of shopping for me to do… Fortunately, I’m blessed with the most patient husband who is happy to read his book over coffee while I try on the umpteenth pair of trousers and curse my big bum…
See the fabulous necklace I’m wearing? I got it at Forever 21. What a horrible place: ten times messier than H & M, and full of frenzied bargain hunters… But lots of affordable bling.
Then there was the fantasy shopping, of course:
No trip would be complete without a walk in Notting Hill, and a visit to Hirst Antiques (more about that in an upcoming post in a few weeks…) where Professor M surprised me with this gorgeous Trifari brooch that I have been eyeing for ages…. The man has a talent for finding the perfect birthday present. Well, he’s also had a lot of practice…
Before heading back to Homebase 2 we had a quick stopover at Hilton Metropole so that Professor M could have his favourite drink, Earl Grey Martini (yes, really… It’s the Hilton Metropole signature drink, quite good).
All in all, a very nice weekend. Now I’m all shopped out and happy to enjoy a week off from work.
Sunshine and kisses,
Tiina
Linking up to Visible Monday at Not Dead Yet Style
and Stylish Tuesday at Life’s a Party Dress Like It
Wonderful travel pics, Tiina! I too sit in the sun for only a few moments before I burn. Must try Professor M's signature drink! Thanks for sharing with Visible Monday.
Wish I could get my hubby to sit still and behave while I tried on tons of clothes and cursed MY big bum! ;)OXOXDawn LucyFashion Should Be Fun
The secret is to shop in places with nice coffee shops where hubby can enjoy his coffee, work on his laptop or read a newspaper, and he won't even miss you while you scour the shops….like those places where parents can leave their children for a few hours while they shop: we need "hubby parks" where our significant others can be entertained for a while in a relaxing atmosphere…
Funny and FABULOUS, dear Tina.XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Shopping and traveling–my favorite two activities! Although I seek out those little indy boutiques, you remind me great finds can be still be found at the mall! Happy Birthday!
Thank you so much. Yes, I sometimes shop in shopping centres (love department stores), but I tend to look for unique little boutiques, too, as you can often find really interesting items there.
Excellent! How chic and spiffy you look, all ready to celebrate. Happy Birthday to you! I wish you many more and that you celebrate them with your impeccable style. Good to put in your order early for next year's gift! Smart girl.
Thanks, Jan! Yes, I'd better start thinking about the next birthday early, that's a big one…