Well, my whirlwind trip to London is just about over. I was here for two days, and I spent about 3/4 of a day working. It didn't leave too much time for being a tourist, but fortunately I have been here before and could pick and choose my activities, and I am comfortable taking the tube, which made life a lot easier.

My two biggest YLF-relevant activities were (1) the Mary Quant show at the Victoria & Albert museum, which was AMAZING, and (2) Selfridges (also amazing, but in a different way). I just love London and hope to come back soon.

So, what did I buy? I probably spent a total of 3 hours in Selfridges, much of it just wandering and ogling. It was difficult, because although I LOVE clothing and accessories, I can find it difficult to pull the trigger on a purchase, especially if it is pricey. I had to avoid the leather goods because I just do not have the budget for the ones I wanted - so it was off to clothing. My style is somewhere in the "twisted conventional" space, which can be a narrow band in a large store. Ultimately, I found two items that have been on my "want/need" list for a long time, and I'm thrilled!

Reiss pinstripe double breasted blazer. This is a gorgeous jacket that fits beautifully. I know I will wear it all the time. (Can't seem to find a picture on the site, tho.)
Dune London navy oxfords with yellow stripe. Super lightweight and very fun.

Then, in the airport, I stopped into Paul Smith and found a wonderful sweater that will look great with the new blazer and with my leather jacket.

It was a great trip and now I'm all sorted for my birthday gifts (October). And DH is off the hook, since I already love everything!

A few pics for you here: (1) with my cousin Helen (my mother is British) at the National Theater; (2) the animal print dress from JCrew factory (which I wore to the theater); (3) great street style (do you see those suede "socks" she is wearing with her mules? and the fab bag? and the mesh top? So fun.); (4) a shot from Mary Quant. I swear I would wear everything in the show. Simple, colorful, architectural: Timeless. (5) the Paul Smith sweater, and (6) the oxfords.

Thanks for listening!