new discovery : ana moura and fado music

According to Wikipedia, Fado music can be traced to the 1820s in Portugal but probably has much earlier origins. Often linked to the sea and lives of the poor, these beautiful ballads are characterised by rhythm and emotion. Although sometimes melancholic and full of longing, many are uplifting and you find yourself gently swaying to the beat..
Yesterday, I heard one of Fado's modern day stars, Ana Moura, singing on Radio 4's Woman's Hour. I absolutely loved it.
With fans such as the Rolling Stones and Prince, she's well worth a listen. Click here to hear some of her beautiful music on Deezer.

small investment, BIG impact

I'm a great believer in investing in the right accessories. We are all feeling the pinch at the moment and I have decided this summer that - rather than buying lots of new summer clothes (that, let's face it, aren't likely to get many outings in the UK) - I'm going to invest in some hard-working new accessories. Top of the list is this Long Star Necklace - such a flattering length and bang up to date. At only £24, it is also really affordable.

I have already treated myself to this gorgeous Lee Bracelet - and elegant and deceptively intricate design with a classic, retro feel. I haven't taken mine off since I bought it. Again, very affordable at £35.

Black on black is one of my absolute favourite looks and this Plexiglass Necklace is a real eye-catcher - imagine it over a simple black top. I have a long black jersey t-shirt dress and this is the perfect way to dress it up for relaxed entertaining and holidays. A little more expensive at £45 but it oozes high-end designer appeal and you will wear it again and again.

AND BY THE WAY ... IF YOU ORDER YOUR JEWELLERY FROM US TODAY, YOU CAN BENEFIT FROM A MIND BLOWING 30% SPECIAL OFFER DISCOUNT - JUST ENTER THE CODE JEWEL30 AT THE CHECKOUT.

just because it's sunny AGAIN!

"I do not weep at the world. I am too busy sharpening my oyster knife." Zora Neale Hurston

the sun is out!

knot chair by tatsuo kuroda

"For me it is all about shape, touch and use. I believe that fine products will be loved longer and that way becomes sustainable in the end." Tatsuo Kuroda

The Knot Chair combines a modern Scandinavian look with high-end hand finished craftmanship. The result is a beautifully comfortable, elegant chair reminiscent of Danish furniture classics from the 1950s.

 

• Measurements: H:72 x D:50.5 x W:58.5cm
• Ash wood
• Available in Black, Black/Natural and White
• Price £296

just because ...

On a cold, blustery Monday after Mothers Day, I couldn't resist posting this picture - quite possibly the most beautiful vase of flowers I have ever seen. Created by the Flower Appreciation Society. Heavenly.

perfect and simple ...

I've just found this rather gorgeous looking pineapple cake on the lovely French and Parfait Blog (there are some great recipe ideas here too). My family shall be sampling it soon and I shall report back ...