Four Restaurant Finds in SW London...

It is fair to say that I LOVE eating out. During the week, my flatmate and I work long hours and when we're not eating dinner at work we tend to rustle something up at home (recipe posts are on the way.) However, whilst I love eating out, I don't like eating at ridiculously expensive places. The way I see it is that there is SO much choice in London, that you don't always need to spend £100 on a dinner to have a delicious meal. Therefore, I've done the hard work for you and found you some great places to eat out on a tight-medium budget if you live in the SW area, or if you fancy a change of scenery and heading down here for the evening.

Brixton Village

I heard so many good things about Brixton Village before I decided to go and see what the fuss is about; and every time I've visited I haven't been disappointed. It's hard to describe, but it's in two separate parts and is basically an indoor arcade with winding little pathways, with little independent restaurants lining them. It's certainly not 'Michelin star' food, and it's not the kind of place you dress up for, but every time I've been I've loved my food and it really is dirt cheap. Plus, the atmosphere and the vibe is so cool, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. However word of warning - it can get very busy on the weekend so prepare for a wait for the best places!



Honest Burger - My best friend and I had wanted to go here for AGES. I am a burger addict. One Saturday we were both ridiculously hungover and decided the only cure was Honest. We weren't disappointed. We both had the homemade lemonade which came in the cutest little glass jars with green and white striped straws. It was delicious, but the only criticism was that it needed ice because it was a little warm.

I went for the cheese (cheddar) beef burger which is served medium rare. The meat was incredible, the bun was soft, the fillings were so tasty, and what's more the rosemary salted chips are delicious (and plentiful!) My best friend doesn't eat beef so she had a chicken burger with the toppings of a beef burger, and she assured me her's was delicious too. Best bit? It was only £11 each. Bargain. I have to admit, the Patty and Bun burgers still topped it, but only just.

Franco Mancas - If you are looking for the best pizza in SW London, look no further. The menu is quite small, but everything I saw looked incredible. The pizzas are absolutely MASSIVE, and only around £6-7! How crazy is that? The best thing about this is that they use sourdough, so the crusts are incredible. I don't know about you, but I usually end up eating the middle of my pizza and leaving the crunchy dry crusts. Well these are soft and tasty. I managed to eat the whole thing; it was just too good. There are no airs and graces with this place; the wine was served in glass tumblers and the turnover is quite quick. However for under £30 for 2 pizzas, a bottle of wine and side salad you can't really go wrong.

Clapham



Osteria - This was another recommendation, and again it didn't disappoint. It's on Clapham High Street, and if I'm honest from the outside doesn't look like anything too special. However what makes this place amazing is it's Italian authenticity; it seems to be family run, all the staff are Italian, and it's decorated so you genuinely feel like you could have just walked in off a street in Rome. I had pizza (my Dad called me a pleb) which was goat's cheese and spicy sausage - delicious. The nice thing was it wasn't only pizza and pasta; the mains all looked really delicious too. A definite one to try.



The Bobbin - I'd never heard of this before, but it's a small gastro-pub in Old Town Clapham. It's a little walk from the main high street past The Jam Tree, and outside it's covered in fairy lights. Sold already. Now I'm not a huge fan of restaurants serving British food; I like a lot of spice to my dinners, and I always tend to want to try cuisines that I wouldn't usually make myself. However this really didn't disappoint. We went for the lamb (which was SO tender) with herbed potatoes and garlic cabbage and I can honestly say it's one of the best meals I've had in weeks, and the leg of duck which was also delicious. This is a bit of a secret, but a VERY good one.

So, have I got your mouth watering? Is there anywhere else you'd recommend? Like I said, I'm a big fan of eating out...

Daniel Wellington

Ever since I started work I wanted a new watch. The problem was, I couldn't decide exactly which one I wanted. I wear a lot of black and navy at work, and usually I tend to go for yellow gold jewellery as I think it suits me best. As much as I looked, I couldn't find anything I fell in love with. I didn't really want a Michael Kors-esque watch, but couldn't find anything else which was affordable yet chic and stylish. I love the Olivia Burton watches, but the faces are a bit too big for my skinny wrists.

In comes the Daniel Wellington. I've seen these on a few blogs and I've 'ooh-ed' and 'aah-ed.' I love how classic they look, so that they will never go out of fashion. They're not fussy, or blingy, or in your face, but they just add that extra little something to an outfit. They also allow you to tell the time. (Can you tell I'm more pre-occupied with the look of a watch than I am with its function? Although it is useful).



I was very undecided about the black or brown strap, or the yellow gold or rose gold detailing, but I am actually in love with the one I've got (the brown with the rose gold.) The rose gold is quite subtle, and I think looks less harsh than the yellow. Plus, the brown means you can wear it with both black and navy clothes. Perfect!

Lastly, how cute is the box the watch comes in? It's taken pride of place on my dressing table top.



Here's the link to the watch if you fancy treating yourself next pay day. Are you a fan of Daniel Wellington? What watch do you wear?

Thoughtful Thursday: 21st Century Girl Power

So the other day I was procrastinating on Pinterest (as you do) and came across this quote. My first reaction was to laugh. My second was to want to re-post it on Instagram. My third was to decide not to do so, because of the impression that would give people about me who saw it.

Now here on LBL, my miniscule corner of the internet, things rarely ever get very serious. However, I feel it's only right I occasionally discuss things that are just a little more thought-provoking than the 'New In' at Topshop or my new favourite eyeshadow. Just occasionally. So here goes...Apologies if I seem self-righteous.

I count myself as an incredibly lucky individual. I was born to two loving, caring parents who gave me the best childhood you could imagine. Most importantly, from a young age my parents instilled in me a desire to learn, to work hard and to aim high. They taught me that anything was possible with hard work and determination. It has to be said I was a bit of a geek throughout school (I was known to take Letts Maths books on holiday for fun. I know.) However, my parents nurtured my passion for learning and studying, and supported me throughout primary school, secondary school and then Sixth Form. They gave me enough freedom so I never felt pressured or forced into anything, but guided me so that I ultimately made the right life choices. I owe my parents everything, because without those values they instilled in me, I definitely wouldn't have gone to Oxford and I wouldn't have achieved my dream of becoming a 'proper' lawyer.

Equality between the genders has come a long way. We're getting closer to establishing a greater equilibrium between men and women at the top within companies and industries, with equal pay and more equal rights and opportunities. Seeing so many women at partner level within my law firm was a major attraction for me when applying. Women no longer have to choose between having a career and having children. Now don't get me wrong, we have a long way to go - there is still a disparity between top-earning men and women, and don't get me started on gender representation within Parliament - but it's baby steps and I believe they are heading in the right direction.

So why didn't I want to post the quote on Instagram? My parents brought me up to be so proud of the values they gave me, and women are closer to equality with men than ever before. I think the problem is the way that young women want to be perceived by young men. If you've ever read the book 'Gone Girl,' (and if you haven't - DO IT) you'll know who the 'cool girl' is. She's the one that drinks bottled beer with the lads, plays video games in her sexy underwear, never complains when her boyfriend goes out and gets wasted with his guy friends and never gets jealous. She's basically Mila Kunis in Friends with Benefits. In Gone Girl, the author highlights the fact that all women, when they first date men, want to appear to be a 'cool girl,' despite the fact that deep down at least some of it is a facade. And I suppose that's why I wouldn't post it.

Young women want to appear sexy and girly, rather than feisty and uptight. They want to find the right balance between intelligence and ambition, and femininity and vulnerability. Inevitably, that means talking about sex rather than their lifetime career aspirations. It's true what they say - sex sells. I am not at all suggesting that men don't find intelligent, hard-working women attractive. Far from it. But when a man first strikes up a conversation with a woman, they'd rather know how kinky they are than how many hours they are putting in at the office in order to 'run the world' (girls.) (No blog post about strong independent women is complete without a Beyonce reference FYI.)

Now don't get me wrong - I am not a 'feminist.' I do not believe in going au naturelle in the hair department, I do not believe women should have to hide their femininity or sex appeal, and I definitely am not a 'man hater.' I love being a female, I love dressing up just as much as the next girl and I am not about to change that. I want to highlight my hair, wear fake tan and wear a tight pencil skirt to work...then I want to walk into the office, boss my job and hopefully one day be good enough to make partner. I want to be great in the office as well as the kitchen and the bedroom. Is that so much to ask?

Therefore, I am proposing that feminism, and girl power, must be redefined in the 21st century. Long gone are the days when women would chain themselves to railings to get attention, or even the days when women defied their femininity and constantly hated on men. We need to re-define girl power so that we embrace our sexuality and femininity whilst embracing being independent, strong, beautiful women. It's OK to tell a boy you want to make CEO. But it's also OK to tell him your favourite sex position. We no longer have to choose whether to be the 'cool girl' or the feminist. Let's all be the 'cool girl feminist.' THAT is 21st century girl power.

STEAL HER STYLE: Laura Whitmore

When it comes to celebrities I'd like to look like/be/be best friends with, Laura Whitmore makes the top 5. She's so effortlessly cool, and whilst she's quite 'cute' looking she's also got a killer fashion sense and manages to make 'cute' look edgy. It's an art. I love her style because although a lot of it is quite high fashion and probably very expensive, when I look at her outfits I know that I can replicate it on the high street for a fraction of the price. I think when you look at her you think 'yeah, I could pull that off.' So that is exactly what I've done for you today...



Look One: Metallics are big this season. In fact, aren't they big every season? I absolutely love the way that Laura has paired this rose gold metallic mini with some simple sexy shoes and a sheer white long sleeve short. She looks so hot, without flashing all the flesh. Plus, despite the skirt being pretty daring and there being a mix of metallics, she still manages to make it look wearable. You can replicate her look so easily on the high street, and in my eyes this is a perfect night out look. The shirt is from Forever 21 and is a great wardrobe staple, as are these blush platform heels from French Connection. The skirt is from River Island, but it's been sold out on their website for some time. I managed to find it on the ASOS website, and I love it!



Look Two: I am absolutely loving anything yellow at the moment, whether it's a pastel yellow or a bright sunshine yellow. I love how effortlessly put-together Laura looks, and I think this yellow dress from Oh My Love is absolutely gorgeous and a great addition to any girl's 'going out' wardrobe. The black pointed courts are a great staple but to me are just incredibly sexy, and I love the small box clutch and the dainty gold jewellery from Topshop as finishing touches. The clutch is from Carvela and although it's a little more expensive than I'd usually go for, I think it would go with everything and is so classic.

Finally, I will leave you with a Youtube link of the recent episode of Celebrity Juice with Laura Whitmore. Fast forward to the last challenge and she has a banana in between her legs...hilarious. Check it out HERE.

Easter Weekend

This Easter was my first since starting work, and boy was I excited for some time off. I actually booked days off before and after so I've ended up having a whole week - HEAVEN. I was so excited for some family time, lie-ins and good food. And that is what I got...



The weekend kicked off with Indian takeaway from Joy (our local Indian in Charminster.) Their food is slightly more expensive than your average curry house, but I'd say it's worth every penny - it's kind of 'posh' Indian food if that makes sense. I have the garlic chilli chicken, and oh my days it's good. Highly recommended.



Friday we went bowling as a family. Others may find it slightly strange that a family with two fully grown-up children would go bowling, but if you could see us you'd realise how much we're all big kids (yes, even the parents.) I came second and last, but managed to get over 120 in both games. I don't think I'll be the next bowling champion, but I didn't completely disgrace myself. Plus, it was SO fun.

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Friday afternoon was spent sunbathing in the garden with a diet coke. My parents' garden is one of my favourite places on earth.



Friday evening was family steak night. Mum served up a gorgeous rump steak, crispy potato and leek bake and ratatouille. The woman can cook!

Saturday was spent shopping, as Saturday night I was out with the girls. It ended up being a pretty mad one (surprise surprise) but so much fun. Here is what I wore...



My standard chunky 'last all night' black heels, this gorgeous silk cami from River Island (the neck detailing is what drew me in and makes the top a little more interesting and sexy) and this gorgeous floral skirt from River Island. Super flattering, lovely colours, and I can't wait to style it in different ways!

So that's part one of my Easter weekend. Check back for more photos!

Zara, my one true love...

It's no secret to anyone in my life that I have a love affair with Zara. In fact, it's quite embarrassing when people ask where my clothes are from at work and 'Zara' is my reply. Every single time. I think they offer amazing quality clothes, which are really on trend, at such affordable prices, and they change their stock so frequently there is always something new to feast your eyes on. Great for the wardrobe, not so great for the bank balance. Currently I am in LOVE with their bright Spring items, but that's a topic for a different blog post!

When I was home for Easter weekend I asked the brother to get some shots of me in my evening outfit. This jumpsuit was an amazing Zara find back in November, and I wore it for my birthday meal with the girls in London. There are loads on the market though - Missguided do some great jumpsuits in all different colours. Excuse the face pulling and stupid poses, I was in a very playful mood...



The best bit about this clothing item? The back. Oh my is it beautiful. Piece of advice though - invest in some good tit tape...



Obviously as soon as we got out into the garden the cat (Tiggy) wanted the spotlight too. She's such a diva, but oh so cute. Definitely my favourite ginge.

I love everything about this jumpsuit...from the light silky material, to the cut out shape on the front and the GORGEOUS lace back. Now I wasn't blessed in the bottom department, but this jumpsuit actually hugs and gives you curves in all the right places. The best bit about it? It was £29.99. I know. I almost died.

The shoes are also a Zara love, and I've had so many compliments on them. They're pretty high, but they are really chunky so are a dream to walk in and I can last until 4am in them.

So there you have it, a little OOTN. I'm sure I'll have a few more up soon as I have a couple more big nights out lined up. I blame it on the sunny weather!

Purple Smoke...

It is fair to say that despite owning a huge storage container full of make-up, I am someone who can get stuck in a make-up rut very easily. This mostly happens because every morning without fail I hit the snooze button one too many times and I end up running around the flat like a mad woman, trying to make myself presentable and get into work on time. Therefore, I rarely mix up my make-up and tend to just stick to what I know works.



However, a while back I bought the Maybelline Colour Tattoo in Pomegranate, because I know purple brings out blue eyes. On Saturday afternoon I had some time to kill and I sat and played around with my make-up. I ended up liking the look so much that I snapped a few photos and thought I'd share it with you!



As my face base I used the Rimmel Match Perfection foundation. This stuff ROCKS. It provides a gorgeous amount of coverage, makes your skin look like its glowing from within, and it's a crazy bargainous £6.99. What is not to love? I then used my Rimmel Wake Me Up Concealer under my eyes to add some highlight and cover those dark circles, and then used a generous helping of the Bourjois Chocolate Bronzer (you can never have too much bronzer. Well you can if you end up resembling an oompa loompa, but I think that's pretty hard to do with this bronzer.)

Onto the eyes. I used the Pomegranate Colour Tattoo as the base, and then added MAC's Antiqued eyeshadow on top. I have to say, I absolutely loved the finish. A purpley, reddy, smokey concoction that really made my blue eyes stand out. I then added a small amount of dark brown from my NAKED palette in the crease, and a little bit of highlighter in the inner corners of the eyes to ensure the eyes weren't too dark and looking too small.

After a good coating of the lashes with Maybelline the Falsies, and slicking on some of this pink MUA lipgloss, my face was complete. This has definitely encouraged me to experiment with my make-up more often and try and be a little bit more adventurous. Perhaps not for a client meeting, but definitely on the weekend!

What make-up looks have you been loving? I have to admit I've got a list of Spring-esque items to buy from Boots come pay-day…