This past week was equal parts stressful and calming; over the past few months I’ve had a few health issues and it all came to a head this week. However, amongst the chaos, there were moments of pure joy: I met a brand new two-week-old family member, dedicated time to being creative, and had a big catch up with my entire friendship group.
Last Sunday I had the absolute pleasure of meeting my cousin’s two-week old baby, affectionately known as Baby Bear, and he was the most precious thing I’ve ever laid eyes on – and the tiniest! It filled my heart with so much joy to hold him, I can’t wait to visit him again; and my cousin is making the most perfect mother, you could just see the love blossoming out of her.
WHAT’S INSPIRED ME THIS WEEK
As a fashion designer, and general creative type, I am constantly seeking inspiration wherever I am, and these posts are a way to document what has ignited something within me this past week. Whether its artwork I’ve seen online, photography that moved me, or a collection of colour in nature that kick-started a creative idea in my head, I’ll be sharing four ideas that have brought me joy in the past seven days.
R. READING
I think I’m slowly but surely making my way through every book Kindle Unlimited has to offer, which has brought me to small town, enemies-to-lovers romance Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Stokes. In all honesty the ‘big bad angry man turns soft for the one he loves’ trope has never truly appealed to me, but I’ve heard great reviews about this so I’m giving it a chance. I can’t see it being one of my favourites though.
E. EDUCATING
At the start of the year I decided to learn a new art medium every season, and for springtime I’ve decided to focus on oil pastels. I visited my favourite local art shop, Cass Art in Birmingham, and got a new sketchbook and some gorgeous silky oil pastels that blend like a dream.
I’m looking forward to experimenting with the oil pastels and seeing what I can create over the next few weeks!
P. PLAYING
I’ve recently got into Chappell Roan’s music, largely thanks to TikTok, and I’ve had Hot To Go, Casual and Good Luck Babe on repeat all week.
On a night out on Friday my friend and I even burst into an impromptu performance of the Hot To Go dance in the centre of town!
O. OBSESSING OVER
Popping YouTube on is one of my favourite ways to unwind, and I’ve become obsessed with ceramic artist Kemma who is documenting her artist residency in the South of France. It’s the perfect blend of calming ceramic scenes and whimsical European summer shots.
R. RECOMMENDING
It’s come to that time when every single skincare item you own seems to run out at once – isn’t it always the way?
However, purchasing a brand new bottle of Garnier Lavandin Oil & Hyaluronic Acid Serum Cream has reminded me of how much I love it. I apply this every night before I go to sleep, and not only does it make my skin silky smooth it also makes me feel ready for bed.
T. TREATING MYSELF TO
On a trip into town my sister and I couldn’t resist treating ourselves to a dinner at Spoons (I say treat – I think the whole meal came in at under £10).
Though, no one can beat a good old Spoons dessert!
Love Chloe x
