Liebchen Vintage

ORIG 60s mod psych brocade coat! 8 -10 £100

2010-12-13T14:16:00.001Z

cave of vintage wonders - fully stocked!

2010-12-13T14:12:00.003Z

I have a beautiful array of original vintage 1960s dresses and mini coats currently on my eBay! 99% of my stock is sourced overseas (mainly the USA), super rare and hard to find in the UK! Click here for loveliness xxxxxxxxxxx

Purple suede goodness!

2010-12-07T17:08:00.003Z

Amazing soft purple suede original late 60s mod/ gogo boots - UK size 4. I also have a floppy purple hat to match! Click the pic to go to my eBay xxxxxxxxxx

Liebchen's Cave of Wonders...

2010-11-29T12:36:00.003Z

Marianne xx

2010-11-22T17:36:00.000Z

Biba love

2010-11-22T17:35:00.001Z

helloooooo all

2010-08-19T16:20:00.003+01:00

Hello vintage lovers!

I've been away for a long long time training to become a teacher of German and French and now I finally have my life back! So since the schools broke up for Summer I've had a huge clear out and my eBay has a new lease of life and a whole new set of desirable delights!

CLICK HERE for vintage & high street goodies

Peace & Love, Jenn. xxxx

knit knit knit knit knit you've got knits !

2009-02-26T12:51:00.002Z

So I am returning to my Berlin-obsession of knitting. (I say 'Berlin-obsession' as I attempted to knit ten thousand scarves during my time there, and as soon as my feet planted themselves firmly on British soil once again, my passion seemed to wither.) And NOW I am embarking on possibly the most challenging wool-based challenge thus far on my knitting quest: A cream cable-knit clutch bag. Seen on the arm of Carrie in Sex and the City and retailing for over $100 on American websites, it's time I took the bull by the horns, or the knitting by the needles, so to speak. I will be updating you on my slow and painful progress (I swear I have premature arthritis in my hands! Too much of putting pen to paper I think!)

But look to the future: very soon you will be seeing this bit of snuggle arm candy in my sore little paws!

DAISY LOWE : FRONT ROW !

2009-02-25T12:20:00.004Z

Props to our Dais for her clever colour co-ordination of dress and drink! Little does she know that her celeb-child chum Peaches is complimenting her orange hue perfectly too! (For those who are perplexed by this comment please refer to your complimentary colour wheels!)

Front row at Issa LFW 09.

FOOT FETISH

2009-02-16T09:58:00.004Z

Anyone who knows me knows that I have an unhealthy penchant for all things stilettoe - boots, shoes, pictures, books. And if those stilettoes are studded or patent or ankle-breakingly high, or, the shoe of dreams, ALL 3, then I love them just that little bit more...

So lately I have been contemplating the uber-shoe who qualifies in not only one, but all categories, and forgive me if this is unfashionably 'out of date' or 'last season' but there is and can only be one contender:

Christian Louboutin for Rodarte.

Agreed? I am so in love with these evil mortal-kombat-meets-high-fashion killer heels (literally!) that I am making it my mission to successfully customise my very own 6 inch stilettoe platforms with all of the spikes I can lay my metal-loving mitts on!

LIEBCHEN VINTAGE XXX

PS. Will someone knit me some raggedy-town woollen tights?

LOVE THYSELF !

2009-02-13T15:22:00.002Z

... AND FORGET THE NEIGHBOURS!

Valentines day is all about making sure that the following humans in your life feel loved and cared for:

1. your lover

2. your mother

3. your SELF !

So since I am a bonafide lover of all things vitamin-enriched, and especially the super thirst quenching VitaminWater, I will be treating myself (and my lover ... and my mother, coincidentally) with a big fat injection of self-love in the shape of Power-C Dragonfruit VitaminWater.

Whether you’re in the mood for love or just love treating yourself to a hassle-free, effortless boost of nutrients and goodness, Power-C is a comprehensive blend of zinc and vitamins c, b3, b5, b6 and b12 - that all love your body and give you that little bit of t♥l♥c that you deserve this february 14th. AND you don't even have to gobble the entire fruit bowl or have all manner of greens with your sunday din dins as this little 500ml treat contains 200% of your recommended amount of vitamin C! So, if you're new to the world of hydrology or just an inquisitive epicurean, this basically means that you are SORTED and probably 200% immune against all of the 'orrible February viruses that are flying around!

I've survived the lurgy thus far... Power-C is going to make sure I continue to! HURRAH! ♥

NEW STUFF ON MY EBAY

2009-02-12T13:46:00.003Z

Hello fashion followers!

I have listed lots of lovely treats for you to feast your shiny little eyes on.

CLICK HERElove... LIEBCHEN VINTAGE xxx

PS. Go to the flicks and see The Reader!

♥ Paris ♥ Paris ♥ Paris ♥

2009-02-12T13:30:00.003Z

♥ PARIS.... J'ADORE! ♥

We ate lots of baguettes, brioche, salmon, croissants, sushi, confiture fraises and omelettes. We drank 50 Eur mojitos and 40 Eur shots of vodka. We visited the Monnaie de Paris for the David La Chapelle exhibit. We went to the museum of Fashion and Clothing and saw Napoleonic evening wear and a peacock muff that Zarah fell in love with. Our maid dressed up in our clothes, drank our vodka and listened to our iPod while we were out. We got chased by a man with a shoe fetish at 2am in Montmatre. We got into a taxi with a brothel owner who was thinking about kidniapping us.

WE. SAW. DITA.

If you ever get a chance to go and see her in the beautiful, porcelein, perfect, blemish free, angel-like flesh then do it because she is incredible. An enigma, a mystery, I want to know her! Also the Crazy Horse was an unbelievable venue - we had a bottle of champagne on ice, complimentary CosmopoliTEESE cocktails coourtesy of the handsome waiters, and an ocular and aural treat that one can only dream of in the form of the Crazy Horse dancers. Indescribable!

♥ I MISS PARIS ♥

PRESENTING LIZZ LUNNEY !

2009-02-04T21:52:00.003Z

If you didn't already know... Lizz is a comic artist from Birmingham and, as well as being an avid tea and knitting enthusiast (possibly two of the best things on planet Earth), her comics have kept me entertained for hours. My favourites are definitely Hairy Midget Elf, The Truth About Dinosaurs and Depressed Cat 'At Disneyland'. Unequivocal genius!

I need say no more... Just click below and see for yourself... ♥ !

pièce de la semaine !

2009-02-04T21:43:00.003Z

HELLO LOVELY FOLKS!

Please have a little gawp at my new items on eBay this week. It's FINALLY time for Paris Paris Paris so I will most certainly have some wonderful, new pieces from accross the tumultuous channel for your vintage delectation! <3

For now though, you can enjoy my English ones.....Click here for BARGAIN LOVE!

This week's treats include a vintage style TOPSHOP red satin jumpsuit, ORIGINAL 80s Reebok hi-tops, uber-80s metallic silver mini dress and lots and lots more! Have fun xxxx

I WANNA VIT YOU UP !

2009-01-28T09:39:00.004Z

OK so I can't possibly be the only one who is slightly preplexed by this new, mysterious super-drink taking over our eyes and ears of late. VITAMINWATER. If the hype is true (and I can vouch: IT IS!!!) then this new phenomenon of the beverage world is like a little lifesaver in mouthwateringly delicious liquid form. I am particularly fond of their newest addition to the VitWater family: Revive (also known as 'the purple one'). Being in my final year of uni, and having already this year spent a solid weekend in the library high on caffeine and battling droopy eyelids, with the prospect of work and more lectures the following day, I am more than a little excited at the prospect of something being able to really, truly, perk me up!

The REVIVE flavour is at hand to keep hard-working folks hydrated after all those late nights (both those necessary 'academic' ones and the not-so-necessary 'WHAT HAVE I DONE' all nighters...) this term and beyond. It is packed fall of a combination of potassium, vitamin B, and essential B vitamins. so it's the perfect choice for picking you up off your feet and getting over the morning after the night before. Or just getting up at all if you know you've gotto sift through ten thousand mediaeval manuscripts in the library. We've all been there! If you want to know what all the fuss is about, make sure you keep an eye out .... The glaceau VITAMINWATER teams will be visiting university campuses during january and february to ensure students have a taste of REVIVE. Hurrah! In fact, I bumped into a row of said drinks in the University of Birmingham's cafe Go! They know their stuff!

So anyway, like I say, keep your eyes peeled cos glaceau vitaminwater has six bloody lovely flavours; power-c (dragonfruit), vitaminwater essential (orange-orange), vitaminwater spark (tropical citrus), vitaminwater multi-v(lemonade), vitaminwater revive (fruit punch) and vitaminwater defence (raspberry-apple). being someone who is fond of non-carbonated drinks (with the added bonus of vitamin content without havign to swallow those horrible 'orange flavour' chalky tablets from Tesco) I WANT SOME! I have a feeling this will be my new partner in crime in succeeding in life!!! HAHAH. My mouth is actually watering.

Red, White and Crüe.

2009-01-23T10:05:00.006Z

OK SO I am slightly obsessed with Mötley Crüe, as most of you will know. And in 2 weeks I am going to Paris, to the Crazy Horse, to see DITA VON TEESE! So! Imagine my utter delight, pure & simple, when I make the mental connection between the two...:

"Crazy Horse, Paris, France, forget the names, remember romance, I got the photos, a menage a trois, musta broke those Frenchies laws with those Girls, Girls. Girls..."

From their awesome, ace, fabulous, wonderfully ridiculous album GIRLS GIRLS GIRLS. Zsas and I will attempt to recreate the debauchery previously wreaked by the Crüe in 1983. Only with less sexual promiscuity, drugs and general masculinity. (AKA we will swan about in nice dresses holding cigarettes like Audrey Hepburn and sipping Moet.. whilst at the Crazy Horse. HAHAHAH)

So excited!

I have it on good authority, having read every Mötley biography/ autobiography on the shelves, that Mick Mars was so drunk during this photoshoot that he nearly drowned in the suds and had to be propped up. ROCK!

mediaeval german romance literature...

2009-01-18T14:45:00.003Z

...is holding me hostage in the university library this weekend.

Luckily for me I have my new best, hairy friends FLEET FOXES to keep me company. The only problem is that I have to almost physically restrain myself from getting lost in the music and mournfully wailing along the music, such is my passion for these seattle hippies. It's keeping me going at any rate. This makes me want a pet goat or three:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brZTvGIzeGg

(IT WONT LET ME EMBED IT! <3)

And whilst we are on the subject of animals, I was in such close proximity to a squirrel today that I stood open-mouthed on campus for a good minute, edging as close to the little creature as I could without scaring him away. I didn't succeed, but since that moment this morning I have felt blessed and appreciative and happy. He made my day and nothing and nobody can ruin it now! They are so fluffy and yet fluid all at once - isn't that just the biggest oxymoron you ever heard? Miraculous.

NEW EBAY ITEMS!

2009-01-17T11:51:00.002Z

I have finally managed to get around to updating my new years eBay stock. I have much much more to come to keep those peeper's peeled!

Click here for: and lots of it too!

BARGAINS INCLUDE:

~Handmade VICKY MARTIN sequin hotpants

~ Genuine AMERICAN APPAREL gold lame leggings S

~ Authentic men's SWEAR boots UK 8

~ Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream RETRO EDITION

~ Elizabeth Arden 8 hour lip protectant RETRO EDITION

~ Chanel-inspired CC motif handbag(s)

~ Hand-customised studded black patent ankle boots UK 4

AND MUCH MUCH MORE!

♥ INCROYABLE! ♥

2009-01-12T21:25:00.001Z

Arden... in your own backgarden

2009-01-09T11:32:00.003Z

OK so it seems that due to my eBay selling break this blog has become preoccupied with my current must-haves. For the record, I'm not employed by the advertising teams of American Apparel or Elizabeth Arden respectively, ratherI think it's fair to say that I have a duty to report on the beautiful and covetable. And so I do!

Much to my delight, as one who is never fond of unnecessary packaging remakes and overhauls (SEE: Herbal Essences new 'modern' look. Yuck! It looks like budget bodycare!) Elizabeth Arden's iconic and infamous 8 hour cream has had a retro makeover, reverting to the original packaging from its launch in the 50s. The packaging takes its cue from the Americana of the 50s, with chic retro motifs straight from the American Diner school of style. It makes me want a beehive and to wear cuban heeled panthose with a full circle skirt!

Observe:

On top of this, I am now 100% addicted to the 8 hour handcream (even though it smells like lemongrass, possibly my least-favourite fragrance on earth - why not almond or vanilla?!?!?) and my hands have been treated at least 5 times daily to this silky soft squirt of hydration heaven. And if you want a one-pill-cures-all magic wonder cream, the 8 hour retro pot is ideal for using everywhere – lips, face, hands and also soothes any dry areas of the body like heels, elbows and knees. At this rate, one day I might be a real lady!

I love how it looks almost medicinal... Wonderful! xxxxxxxxx

You're the one that I want !

2009-01-07T15:10:00.005Z

In the words of Zarah N. Leaman: OH EM GEE!

During my ritual bi-monthly browse of American Apparel online, whereby I usually make a seemingly endless list of which colour double-U scoop dress I want now, I came accross a strikingly expensive pair of shiny trousers which seemed way above the average AA retail price. Intrigued, I clicked on the mysterious image, and, while my brain clicked and whirred trying to figure out how and why lycra had become so expensive overnight, the the dazzling realisation hit me: these are no ordinary lycra leggings. These are no ordinary lycra trousers. These are... genuine Sandy from Grease zip up super-shiny super-slimming dicso pants circa 1970! ♥

At £75 they're not the cheapest pair of trousers going, but by GOLLY they look worth every penny! And, being a life-long enthusiast of THOSE shiny trousers worn by Olivia NEwton John (who was rumoured to have been SEWN in to create the desired skin-tight effect!), needless to say my heart skipped a beat or two. They look suspiciously slim-legged but you can bet your bottom dollar that I'll be trying every trick in the book to squeeze my pins into those tiny textile tubes.

HOORAY FOR AA!

PARIS PARIS PARIS

2009-01-04T14:02:00.003Z

Je ne peux pas t'attendre pour Paris !

Me and my doth-goll Zarah are escaping to Paris in early february to see Dita von Teese at the Crazy Horse in Paris (EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP) and we will most certainly be shopping and indulging ourselves in the shabby-chic charity shops around Montmatre. (The last gem was one certain silver chainmail and metallic leather bumbag that I couldn't bare to part with.) So! Expect some fabulous parisian-chic vintage items to be appearing on my eBay in mid-late february. Don't worry, i'll remind you!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

JACK'S BACK !

2008-12-30T11:58:00.005Z

3 December 2008 – 28 January 2009

University of Birmingham; Barber Institute

Jack Kerouac: Back On the Road
The original manuscript scroll of Jack Kerouac’s seminal novel, On the Road, goes on display in Europe for the first time at this unique exhibition organized in collaboration with the University’s Department of American and Canadian Studies. In April 1951, Kerouac sat down in front of a portable typewriter to begin writing, on sheets of tracing paper cut to size and taped together to form a scroll 120 feet long, the work that was to become the bible of the post-war Beat Generation.
The novel was completed after twenty days of continuous typing, fuelled, despite rumours to the contrary, by no other drug than caffeine. To a large extent autobiographical, and based on his own travels across America, On the Road tells the story of Sal Paradise and his friends and acquaintances — characters based on Kerouac himself as well as on Allen Ginsberg, William Burroughs and others. It tells of their fascination with jazz, the landscape of America, women and sexuality, and is the archetypal ‘road-trip’ tale. One of the most valuable literary manuscripts in existence, the scroll was bought in 2001 by a private collector, but has been on public tour to museums and libraries across the United States since 2004. To coincide with the 50th anniversary of the novel’s first publication in Britain in 1958, the scroll will be on show at the Barber alongside maps, photographs, album covers and memorabilia that explore the novel’s genesis and its times. A catalogue and series of connected events will accompany the exhibition.

VISIT VISIT VISIT VISIT!

HO HO HO

2008-12-22T09:41:00.004Z

HAPPY HOLIDAYS & FESTIVE CHEER TO EVERYONE!

KEEP YOUR SHINY LITTLE PEEPERS PEELED FOR MILLIONS OF EQUALLY SHINY VINTAGE TREATS ON MY eBaY SHOP IN JAN.

xxx ENJOY! xxx

NEW ITEM JUST LISTED!

2008-12-17T18:21:00.003Z

AWESOME MOD SKIRT FROM 1965!

Fabulous 60s 70s mod-eqsue skirt in sumptuous festive soft vintage psychedelic patterned velvet!

As usual this item is one of a kind and unique however this little beauty is HAND MADE and therefore all the more fabulously original!

Size S-M - Roughly knee length -Have a look!ALSO! DONT FORGET MY LEATHER TROUSERS AND VINTAGE RED TANDORI DRESS ARE ENDING SOON!

BUY BUY BUY

2008-12-16T12:22:00.003Z

ENDING SOON!

Fabulous 60s embroidered tandori shift dress in hot red, size S-M

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=400016878737&ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT

Amazing high waisted 80s butter-soft red leather trousers, size S-M

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=400016387905&ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT

HAVE A LOOK FOLKS! XXXX

STYLE NOIR

2008-12-16T10:48:00.006Z

STYLENOIR

www.stylenoir.co.uk/newnewsdetail.aspx?id=195

Click above (or see below!) my recent contribution to the fabulous STYLENOIR website.

Posted: 15/12/2008 on STYLE NOIR

Dr Marten are celebrating the holiday season with a limited edition pair exclusive to the London flagship store, read on to find out moreWe all remember our own little Dr Marten phase in life: my first pair were size 11 classic florals, closely followed by a classic black. In recent years it seems the popularity and influence of said iconic boot has been waning, with people unfairly associating the boots with skin heads and punks, forgetting their timelessness and functionality. Sadly, after Dr. Martens ran advertisements that depicted dead rock stars like Kurt Cobain of Nirvana and Joe Strummer of the Clash wearing its shoes in heaven, the musicians’ survivors (who had not granted permission) and fans were outraged. The outcry was so great that the British company that makes the shoes, AirWair International, issued an apology and fired its advertising agency, the London office of Saatchi & Saatchi, part of the Publicis Group, no doubt only adding to their woes. But now the brand has a new campaign, a new agency and fresh ambitions for a comeback and I for one wholeheartedly welcome their return as fashion forerunners once more. With high profile devoted long-term followers such as Alice Dellal, Agyness, Henry Holland and Ladyhawke, it seems that DM are definitely back on the fashion wagon. HOORAY! On top of their incredible comeback, to celebrate the holiday season and treat our tootsies to something festive, the iconic brand have created an uber-boot to beat all boots: a limited edition 20 eye black shimmer leather boot complete with festive red welt stitching and red laces! Only available from the flagship store (17-19 Neal Street, Covent Garden, WC2H 9PU) or online HERE. For more info contact Zarah at Exposure on 0207 907 7149.

- Jennifer Laventine

ITEM OF THE WEEK!

2008-12-11T19:48:00.004Z

MY ITEM OF THE WEEK ON MY eBay!

THIS STUNNING ORIENTAL STYLE EMBROIDERED TANDORI DRESS WITH MANDARIN COLLAR IS UP FOR AUCTION ON MY eBay WITH A 99p START! EXQUISITE AND RARE! SOURCED IN THE USA! (Size S M 8 10 12) HAVE A LITTLE LOOK VINTAGE VOYEURS XXXX

MY NEW OBSESSION!

2008-12-11T16:05:00.004Z

DR MARTEN, MARTEN, CALLING DR MARTEN!

Lately I've decided (through a lot of inspiration through my fashion muse and DM representative Zsasino Gaborino Leaman of exposure London) that it's time i re-embraced my love for Doctor Martens classic 1460 8 holers. I used to wear them to school with lace tights and fishnets (back in 1999) and get hauled into the Year Heads office weekly to be told off about my unconventional and 'inappropriate' footwear. (Funny they never mentioned the holes in my tights. Obviously too risque (not to mention risky!) for them to bring that up...) Clearly channelling Alice D before she emerged like a butterfly from the grunge pool:

After Dr. Martens ran advertisements that depicted dead rock stars like Kurt Cobain of Nirvana and Joe Strummer of the Clash wearing its shoes in heaven, the musicians’ survivors (who had not granted permission) and fans were outraged. The outcry was so great that the British company that makes the shoes, AirWair International, issued an apology and fired its advertising agency, the London office of Saatchi & Saatchi, part of the Publicis Groupe.But now the brand has a new campaign, a new agency and fresh ambitions for a comeback.

HOORAY!

AND ON TOP OF ALLLLLLLL THAT, to celebrate the holiday season, the iconic brand have created an uber-boot to beat all boots: a limited edition 20 eye black shimmer leather 20-eye boot complete with festive red welt stitching and red laces! Only available from the flagship store (17-19 Neal Street, Covent Garden, WC2H 9PU) or online HERE. For more info contact my beautiful bestie Zarah at Exposure on 0207 907 7149.

So my feet have apparently shrunk into a UK3-4 (no doubt the product of my penchant for ridiculously high fetish stilettoes and all night partying) so i'm not too upset that I threw my size 5s out (I CURSE THE DAYS BEFORE eBay SELLING WAS EN VOGUE!) and I am soon to be acquiring a fabulous shiny pair of size 4s. Now I need to devote all of my time and energy on wearing the buggers in!
Any offers.... Alice? XXXXXXXXX

HAPPY FEEDBACK TO ME!

2008-12-10T17:42:00.005Z

Today marks not only 6 years of my eBay membership, but ALSO 600 positive feedback comments!

HOORAY! Have a little look at my current listings and grab yourself a fabulous vintage bargain xxxxx

FOR SALE!

2008-12-10T09:32:00.009Z

For those who wants a bargain and somethign rare and unique, visit my little eBay mini-emporium and have a browse! I will be listing lots more fabulous stuff as the day progresses so do check back!

CLICK HERE FOR FUN!

Currently on offer we have:
INCREDIBLE LIPSTICK RED BUTTERY SOFT VINTAGE LEATHER TROUSERS - HIGH WAISTED!

AWESOME VINTAGE TAN LEATHER MENS / UNISEX COWBOY WINKLEPICKER BOOTS UK 7

my eBay emporium !

2008-12-08T14:21:00.004Z

CLICK HERE FOR VINTAGE LOVELINESS COURTESY OF ME!

leather

2008-12-01T22:19:00.000Z

i'm the pam to his jim

WE <3 BHAM

2008-11-06T11:53:00.000Z

Article for Fused Magazine: March 2008.

‘COOL’ BIRMINGHAM

Unfathomably, our humble city of Birmingham tends to get a bad ‘rep’. For those in the know, Birmingham is a veritable breeding ground of talent, creativity, originality, style and culture. We just need to spread the word!

Music-wise, Birmingham has never been so hot. The recent SXSW festival in Austin, Texas, saw some of our finest musicians showcasing their talents on an international stage. Bands such as Copter, The Big Bang, Swampmeat, Deluka, Blackfish. The Scarlet Harlots and Trash Fashion are just a little taster of the abundance of musical talent here in Birmingham. Not content with filling the city’s eardrums with guitar-based noises, innovative music-buffs from Birmingham and its surrounding areas are constantly thinking up new ways to spice up the ever-thriving alternative clubnight scene. The list of choices is growing ever longer with regular nights such as Bigger than Barry, Hott Date, Coldrice, Bang!Bang!, Resurrection, Panic (at new venue Q Club), Naked Lunch, Below, “Vinyl is…” and many more. The genre of music ranges from new-wave, electro and garage rock to crystal-clear minimal beats. Every imaginable musical leaning is catered for!

Not only is the musical content of out ever growing plethora of club nights impeccably varied (and top notch to boot!), the fabulous range of independently run venues which host them are also unique to our vibrant city. The Sunflower Lounge (Smallbrook Queensway) is a mecca for Mods, Rockers, Electro-geeks and Indie kids alike. There is a DJ every night and cult films from decades long gone are projected onto the bar wall, creating a tangible retro atmosphere. Pop around the corner and you bump into Birminghams ‘Bar of the Year 2007’, Island Bar (Suffolkf Street). Bringing together some of Birmingham’s finest bartenders under one roof, the cosy and retro styled cocktail bar boasts every cocktail imaginable. And not only that, the highly skilled and ever-entertaining bartenders are encouraged to use their imagination and skills to create bespoke cocktails of your choice. My favourite is ‘Cherry Stone’ – Amaretto, Midori and Cherry juice. It tastes like a bakewell tart but with less fat content!

As well as boasting an profusion of Indie hangouts, Birmingham also has a booming vintage fashion scene. Choose from the Saturday Flea Market (Custard Factory, Digbeth), the Vintage Warehouse (Digbeth High Street), little treasure chest and jewel in the crown of the city centre shops YoYo (just off New Street) or head to the various infamous ‘Charity Miles’ of Birmingham boroughs Bearwood, Kings Heath and Harbourne for your 50p handbags. For a high street or high fashion fix, head to the internationally renowned Bull Ring, home to all of our favourite chains and of course the luxurious Selfridges. Get your Krispy Kremes here! For a more ‘upmarket’ shopping experience The Mailbox is our very own epicentre of haut couture; spend an afternoon wandering around Harvey Nichols and stop for lunch at once of the many gorgeous restaurants.

For all of your punk, goth, rock or grunge ‘subculture’ requirements, look no further than the Oasis markets (top of Corporation Street). It is a collection of independent stalls in an indoor market environment and has the best range of alternative clothing, footwear and bandwear in Birmingham.

Another well kept secret of Birmingham is the age-old and long-standing Rag Market. Situated just south of the Bull Ring, it is home to untold little fashion treasures, all at stupidly low prices. Taking the ‘£1’ man for example or the £5 vintage Wrangler denim jackets, bargains come at your from every angle! This discount dreamboat is open daily. Count your pennies and get cracking!

Not one to shy away from new and innovative ideas, new club night Mannequin fuses vintage clothing and good music for a pay-day jumble disco hybrid, hosted once a month by the fabulous Rainbow Bar (Digbeth). The perfect way to spend all of your pay packet in one go!

In keeping with the creative current running through Birmingham, there are numerous salacious art-spaces and art-ventures to keep our insatiable art-hungry selves occupied. The IKON gallery (Brindley Place) is free and prides itself on showcasing the best cutting-edge modern art outside of London. The Custard Factory, as well as being a first-class music venue and shopping hub, it is a well- respected arts space characterised by a bustle of creativity; it is undeniably one of the greatest assets to the city.

Finally, cinema pioneers “7 inch cinema” endeavour to bring the best rare and independant cinematography to the Birmingham masses. 7inch events offer a gathering point and a test-bed for sketches and celluloid experiments that might not otherwise get seen or heard. This is undoubtedly a healthy and welcome alternative to the polished shorts made with one eye on a TV career. The next showing is 23rd March at the Hare & Hounds, Kings Heath.

If all that still leaves Philistines feeling unconvinced, just take a look at some of the progeny of our fine city; Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, Judas Priest, Duran Duran, Dexy’s Midnight Runners, J R Tolkien, Dame Judy Dench and wildlife Mastermind Bill Oddie!

NOISE OF NYC - still relevant?

2008-11-06T11:52:00.000Z

Article for ThingsWeLove mag: March 2008

New York, New York !

Lets talk about our favourite bands: Blondie? The Ramones? New York Dolls? The Velvet Underground? Agnostic Front? All NYC cool kids. And a small percentage of the city’s talents at that. The acronym itself conjures up images of bohemian cool (by which I mean REAL bohemia, not "boho"!), artsy hipsters and a thriving creative community. One can be forgiven for feeling somewhat overwhelmed by the city's ‘cool factor’ when we consider exactly what New York City has done for the world of music. Disco, Punk, Hardcore, New Wave, No Wave, Garage Rock... The list goes on. And on and on.

The 70s saw New York pioneering a new and fresh club genre - D.I.S.C.O. Clubs like the infamous (and equally decadent) Studio 54 and the elitist Paradise Garage became notorious for not only the cutting edge music it showcased and their fresh approach to partying, but also the hedonism that went on behind those closed (and highly exclusive) doors. After only 5 years of trading, Studio 54 closed for good but fortunately and unsurprisingly, it’s short stint in the musical world was not directly proportional to its effect on the scene - Disco was now an established genre and would continue to thrive with or without its club parentage. The legacy of the disco scene lived on.

Paradise Garage was the second driving force behind this dance music revolution. Not only that, but it pioneered the basis of a modern nightclub and the club scene as we know it. Unusually, it did not sell alcohol, purposefully detracting from the social aspects of 'clubbing'. With the absence of this social lubricant, the music itself was thrown into the spotlight. Indeed, Paradise Garage was the first club of its kind to put the DJ at the centre of the action - something that we all take as a given in our modern club environment. Before this point in musical history, the DJ was simply the 'music man' and not a focal point; Paradise Garage turned the DJ into the magic man - the source of all atmosphere and enjoyment. And thus the ‘Garage Sound’ was born, a musical genre defined by its association with Paradise Garage (not to be confused with So Solid Cru) Right on!

But this was only the beginning. Not content with having already overthrown the music scene in the 50s with the Greenwich Village Folk movement and coining the term ‘Disco’ and ‘Garage’ , New York was set for even bigger and better adventures. Introducing: CBGBs. Literally "Country/ Blue Grass/ Blues". The club was originally intended to feature its namesake musical styles but it fast became a forum for Punk-influenced bands like The Ramones, Television, The Patti Smith Group, Blondie & The Talking Heads. After the Mercer Arts Centre collapsed in August 1973 there were few locations where local, unsigned bands could play their original music. Musical history was made when such bands took to the now infamous CBGBs stage. It ultimately became a haven and breeding ground for alternative genres and without it, it is hard to say if or when some our favourite bands from decades long gone would ever have emerged.

In recent years there has been a new garage rock revival on the streets of New York, spawning bands such as Interpol, The Strokes, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Liars and The French Kicks. These bands have dominated the hearts, minds and stereos of any self-respecting Indie kid and established old rocker respectively. It seems there is no end to the future potential of this culture soaked city – and yet some people claim its no longer relevant. NYC constantly churns out talent that revolutionises the scene for months or even years at a time. Who in the world hasn’t heard a Strokes tune on the radio at some point in their lifetime? There isn’t a rock club in the country that hasn’t blasted out ‘Slow Hands’ by Interpol or fought off dance-hungry punters requesting ‘Date with the night’ by the YYYs repeatedly until they hear it. Some claim that it is merely the NYC association that propels these bands to such dizzying heights of success but I beg to differ; listeners and musical connoisseurs these days aren’t so easily fazed by attitude and image. We want substance. And NYC continues to deliver.

Ultimately there are few cities on our barren planet that can boast such a wealth of contribution to the world of music - current or otherwise, than New York City. With most genres already firmly established and newer ones seeping into our consciousness like a heavy dose of ether, we no longer require a musical epicentre where aspiring talent flock to seek their fortune. But doubters claim that its influence has waned in recent years. In the words of my very own American hipster friend: "It's all about Montreal." OK, so we have Arcade Fire, Of Montreal, Wolf Parade... But we can't erase the good work NYC has done. Would Arcade Fire have found the drive or inspiration to start their own band without the influences of the original New York scene? These days talent overflows from every street corner, every local pub, every Myspace profile and success is much more accessible. New York was at the centre of a revolution spanning 3 decades, which ultimately changed the way people perceived and made music and it will always have a place in music's heart. Yeah yeah yeah!

journo skills revisited

2008-08-13T00:14:00.006+01:00

This is my first adventure into the world of the published word. This is a bit of my handiwork: to be found in the pages of Fused Magazine, on their website or here !

BEN SHERMAN & PPQ COLLABORATION

5 decades, 5 dresses!

Fashion and music have always gone hand in hand; indeed they boast a very long, fertile and fruitful relationship. Every genre has its own sartorial counterpart and essence of style but there are five significant chapters in musical history, whose influence on fashion and lifestyle was and remains unmatched. Introducing the Ben Sherman PPQ collaboration, entitled: "Decades of Dresses".

Ever since the company's inception in 1963, when Britain was tapping its feet to Lennon and McCartney at the height of Beatlemania and London was the coolest hotspot on earth, Ben Sherman have been creating clothes that blend with the latest scene. PPQ is equally at home with the music vibe. The high fashion clothing brand, a recent hit at London Fashion Week, has its own record label (1-2-3-4). Therefore it was only natural that Ben Sherman would choose London darlings PPQ to be a part of its first womenswear collaboration. There is an obvious synergy between the two brands and it isn't just restricted to the music front; both are pioneers of British style and have the ability to translate contemporary cultural moods and trends into stylish, wearable and truly covetable clothes.

The result of this inventive new project is a range of five uber-stylish dresses that single-handedly and individually revive the original stylings of the five most important phases in British musical history: Mod, Rock, Ska, Britpop and Indie.

The Sixties - Mod
Ben Sherman was born of the 60s so it comes as no surprise that this dress looks like it was handpicked out of Twiggy's party wardrobe circa '63. The short and swinging shift dress is an iconic shape which instantly conjures up images of mods moving and shaking to the revolutionary sounds of The Who. The dress has a button down feature, which is synonymous with the Ben Sherman brand. Team with immaculate hair, cream opaque tights, Go-Go boots and false lashes for the ultimate Mod effect. Vespa optional.

The Seventies - Rock
Psychedelia is the key word here. The classic Ben Sherman silhouette is fused with the floaty, paisley printed style pioneered by the most influential guitarist of all time; musical genius Jimmy Hendrix. Forget Reading, Woodstock here we come!

The Eighties - Ska
In recent years the 80s has enjoyed a warm welcome back to the forefront of fashion and music. However, the signature styles of the ska movement, established by bands such as The Specials and Selektor, have been overlooked. The key trend centred on "2-tone"; black and white checks and sharp suits. Styles were tailored and smart and this is reflected in this high-wasted houndstooth pencil skirt dress. Brimming with grit and an air of elitist underground cool, this dress epitomises the electric and rebellious atmosphere of the 80s.

The Nineties - Britpop
The 90s was a Brit-soaked affair with bands such as Blur, Oasis, Pulp, The Stone Roses and Black Grape all grappling for the title of Britpop Kings. This quintessentially British dress mixes monochrome stripes with embellished detailing, signifying a wink to the wives of the Britpop army that brought the UK to the forefront of the international music scene once more. It wasn't all about tent-raves and dummies after all. Hooray!

The Noughties - Indie
This dress represents the "Indie in all of us". The musical boundaries of the 00's are far more blurred and much less rigid, allowing individuals to spread their musical interests over a wide variety of genre without the fear of retaliation or judgement (see "Mods and Rockers"). The conflict that can exist between differing genre is at last banished to yesteryear and this dress is indicative of that all-encompassing ethos, combining laid-back bohemia with ethereal frills and Victoriana collar. It is at once gothic, contemporary, mysterious and ultimately, individual.

For PPQ and Ben Sherman, the relationship between fashion and music is both inextricable and unchallengeable. They always have and always will influence each other and mirror the current cultural zeitgeist; in short, it is the perfect love affair. This exclusive and innovative collection pays homage to that notion and captures the very essence of the relationship in five breathtakingly authentic dresses. Transport yourself back to your favourite decade courtesy of Ben Sherman and PPQ.

With only 175 of each dress available globally they are destined to be the most coveted item of the season. Get yours now!

www.bensherman.com

Words: Jennifer Laventine

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STYLE: NOIR

NOIR: The Black Book of Art and Fashion

Attention all high-fashion followers THIS is the next big thing. Forget Vogue (did I just say that, I didn't mean it, AMEN)... NOIR is an exclusive, brand-spanking new, limited edition book, the sole purpose of which is to exhibit and showcase the works of up-coming fashion designers, artists and photographers along side those who already have their foot firmly wedged in the fashion door. It is essentially a single compendium amalgamating the freshest, most exciting new designers the world of fashion and creativity has to offer, with already well-established favourites. And top it off, it is all pressed together wonderfully in one chic little binding that will compliment your bookshelf as beautifully as a classic Chanel 2.55 does your favourite ensemble.

The book will only be stocked in the four main fashion cities in the world; London, Paris, Milan and NYC and is due for release Summer 2008. We at Fused are finding it somewhat difficult to come to terms with having to wait that long so luckily for us (and you), in conjunction with the book release, the NOIR team are soon to launch www.stylenoir.co.uk. The website will be the epicentre of all necessary and unmissable fashion news from new designers and upcoming shows to breaking news on Karl Lagerfeld's latest muse. Keep your peepers peeled for more information on the launch, future publications and general high-fashion gossip.

Label-lusters, fashion-fanatics and art geeks alike will find a new Bible in the shape of NOIR and you should all be literally bursting at the seams to get your little paws on it. With a single peek at the index all of our future fashion fixes will be solved.

NOIR is set to be a one-of-a-kind reference point for industry insiders and mere mortals alike so do your wardrobe a favour and do as the professionals will; invest in NOIR. Putting it frankly, your book (& fashion rag) collection will not be complete without this little gem.

www.stylenoir.co.uk

Words: Jennifer Laventine

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GET MY BOOMBOX ON !

Enter the 1980s and with it, the height of the portable stereo craze - walkmans were worn on the hip and boomboxes were held on the shoulder or positioned on a street corner for an impromptu breakdancing session. In fact, the terms "boomboxes" and "ghetto blasters" were borne of this period in an attempt to describe the "noise" that emanated from portable stereo cassette recorders.

If you ever wished you could have been part of that Grandmaster Flash-style, slinky adidas tracksuit wearing, street prowling crew of '84? Have you been scouring eBay for that original '84 Panasonic RX-5050? Look no further.

The innovative folks at Parcel LOOP NYC and Suck.UK have created two fantastic 80s inspired boombox items that allow us mere mortals of the modern world to transform our meek little MP3 players into 80s icons.

Introducing 'Audio Couture' from Parcel; the newest rock and roll inspired collection follows their previous range of ghetto blaster tote bags, piano key clutches and guitar-shaped shoulder bags. The newest addition to this highly original line is must have arm (and ear!) candy: a bag that is shaped like a retro boombox, which not only looks the part, but also sounds it.

Simply plug in your MP3 player and the in-built speakers, which run off the battery power of your player, will play your favourite tracks. Perfect for spur-of-the-moment parties, picnics in the park or creating an authentic backdrop for showcasing your break-dancing shapes. Plus you can keep your purse and keys in it too- genius.

Suck.UK have also come up trumps with their boombox-shaped cardboard MP3 player speaker system. Simply follow the instructions to construct the faux-stereo and watch as your MP3 player morphs into an impressive sound system from the past. This is the 80s revivalists dream.

Now for all of you boys and girls who are lucky enough to still have in your possession an actual cassette player in these times of iPod wizardry, brand spanking new tape label 'Stop Scratching' is here to inject a bit of fresh talent into your tapedeck. Debut release from Birmingham duo Benjamin Savva and Cassandra Joy Merrick is from local boys Mirror! Mirror! (www.myspace.com/mirror) who recently supported LA sextet The Mae Shi. Each tape comes with specially re-recorded tracks, exclusive remixes and limited edition 'Stop Scratching' comic strip-style artwork from Nuneaton-based artist Trav (www.myspace.com/trav_art). Not only that, but when you purchase a tape, the lovely Ben and Cassie will email you the tracks so you can have the best of both worlds. Tapes are £3 plus postage and are available from www.myspace.com/stopscratching.

Words: Jennifer Laventine

a golden age

2008-08-13T00:07:00.002+01:00

i was just looking through some old photos of me and my friends from nights spent out on the tiles, devouring bottle after bottle of vodka and powering through the night dancing to everything from donna summer to the who.

i was admiring and mourning my previous fearlessness when it came to eveningwear: wearing fingerless leather gloves and not caring; silver pleather hotpant catsuits; studded & chained white pvc ankle boots; latex dresses; a lace bodysuit and nothing else...

there is a small window in your life when you can dress outrageously and get away with it. already i feel that my confidence in inappropriate and easily misconstrued clothing is waning. i can recall countless comments from numbskull club goers who presume that a girl who is dressed like an 80s prostitute might actually behave like one, or that leather gloves means that one drives a motorcycle. its a sad state of affairs when even the tiniest of unusal accessory can grab the avergae joes attention in a negative way.

so ultimately, my point is, i am making a stand against this and i WILL dig out my favourite white chained 6" boots and combine it with a fishnet bodysuit if i feel like it, even if i do sound (and look) like a shackled prisoner of fetish.

AMEN !

MIRROR!MIRROR!

2008-05-22T11:44:00.005+01:00

A recent article published in THINGS magazine - pimping out my friends (band Mirror!Mirror! and Stop Scratching cassette label) to the nation! I'm a verbal 'madam'.

MIRROR!MIRROR!

When a band like Mirror!Mirror! take to the stage, any self respecting live music fan has a hard job of keeping their excitement in their respective knickers. Having had the pleasure of witnessing the frenzied (not to mention flesh-filled) explosion of pure energy that the Mirror! Mirror! boys dedicate to their live shows, it is no surprise to us at Things that they have been causing such a stir on the local scene and beyond. Undefinable in genre, we caught up with the local boys to see how they have been coping with the new-found national love they’ve been receiving and to try and figure out how we ought to define their unique brand of spazz-rock:

Things: When you were just getting into playing music, who/ what was your inspiration?
Broadze: In terms of our roots as people and learning about music, Mike and myself would insist Van Halen be mentioned, as well as Iron Maiden, Bon Jovi and Extreme. When we first started as another band we were completely different musically to what we are now, but some of those influences included Botch, Swing Kids, Refused, Every Time I Die, The Bled, Gravity, Level-plane & Equal Vision records' (see: Converge) bands among others.

Things: What inspired you/ has inspired you recently?
Broadze: We have such a massive range of influences, but recently old post punk bands like Gang of Four, Pigbag & Devo have been major sources of inspiration, as well as newer bands such as Liars, Moving Units, Blood Brothers, The Rapture & various “three one G” bands. Electronica and pop music are also big influences for their beats and song structure. Lyrically I obtain ideas and inspiration from books and life in general.

Things: In this genre-obsessed industry, how would you describe your sound, if you had to pigeon-hole yourselves?
Broadze: Something like post punk/ indie rock I guess, when people ask me what sort of music we play I usually say 'dancy indie', they usually just raise their eyebrows, smirk and walk away.

Things: You hail from Nuneaton - what’s the local reaction to your unique sound?
Broadze: Luckily and thankfully it is usually very positive. It's undoubtedly a strange town for a band like us to come out of but I think it makes it all the more exciting for people from Nuneaton who haven’t been ‘exposed’ to our particular brand of music. We've had some really good shows in Nuneaton and some not so good; but that’s the same across the country I suppose. On the whole people enjoy us when we perform at home and I hope we open doors for people to access more new music.

Things: Mirror Mirror is an episode of Star Trek - is that pure coincidence or are you all closet Trekkies...?
Broadze: We're big fans. That is of course where we got our . Look out for a collaboration with Data and the Klingons on the EP.

Things: How long have you been playing music? Together/ individually?
Broadze: We have been playing together with various line-ups for about two and a half years so it’s amazing that we are finally getting somewhere with our music. Individually Mike and Alex have both been playing guitar for 6 or 7 years, Paul has been on drums for 5 years and Luke on bass about 3 years.

Things: Where is your favourite venue / town to play?
Broadze: We love the Rainbow & Sunflower Lounge in Birmingham as venues. We love playing London too - it’s a toss up between the two when it comes to choosing an ultimate favourite.

Things: Have you had much industry interest?
Broadze: There's been some interest from some labels & PR companies and we are working on that, but before we had Maryam as our manager we seemed to have unbelievable bad luck at times and that made us a little lazy. Now we're working twice as hard to get to where we want to be, which is touring and releasing records with the right people around us to support us.

Things: How did you all meet? Do you have contrasting/ clashing musical tastes?
Broadze: Mike and myself met at a football course when we were around 9 and ended up going to secondary school together. We met Alex and Luke through local gigs and asked Alex to play guitar with us. At the time we had no bassist (so ‘punk’) and we later asked Luke to join our ranks on bass. He had never played bass in his life. After various drummer changes, Mike suggested we try a young man called Paul Wechter that he knew from college… After one practice he had learnt all the songs and we had found our man. The best part is all of M!M! besides Mike are from Stockingford in Nuneaton which is so convenient. And we are all close mates.

We all have fairly similar tastes although we're divided over dub step, some hip hop/grime, indie and lots of metal. Naturally this regularly sparks argument in terms of taste. But that just keeps the fire burning’!

Things: You chose to release a tape through Stop Scratching - how did that go down?
Broadze: Some people just don't get it but we loved the idea when ‘Stop Scratching’ (www.myspace.com/stopscratching) put it forward to us. Tapes are a lost medium now and physical releases that you can hold in your hand and add to your collection will always be superior to purchasing MP3s, however convenient that can be. On the other hand a lot of people jump up and down with excitement upon seeing our tape; particularly when they see the amount of effort Stop Scratching put into it. We are very proud of it and we can't ask for much more than that. People who speak to us about it generally love it and we have sold nearly all of the copies as it was limited to 100.

Things: What is the situation with the Holy Roar/ 'on dry land' single release? Dates? Songs?
Broadze: Well, this is where our bad luck re-rears its ugly head… The pressing plant which ‘On dry land’ sent the record to be pressed has gone into liquidation. At the moment we don’t know if or when we will get the EP back or the money invested. We appreciate that we are not the only band affected by this situation but there's not a lot of comfort in the knowledge that other EPs are on hold too… We are travelling to shows without brand new music to sell which is frustrating. The release date was supposed to be March 28 to coincide with our tour (myspace.com/mirror to see the dates) but complications beyond our control changed that. Holy Roar will be releasing the songs which are ‘Wolfgang Bang’ and ‘Silicon Eyes’ as well as a remix on itunes (after me talking about physical release being superior to mp3…. HA!) This is happening in April/ May time so we will keep you updated with everything when it's ready to purchase. Keep your eyes peeled on our Myspace!

Things: DOT TO DOT - exciting! How did that come about? Broadze: Our fantastic manager Broadze: Maz (Chicks Dig Jerks) took care of our slot. We are so excited there's some great acts already confirmed and we're dying to make a big impression on everyone there. We were asked to play 2 years back by Simon from The Klaxons but due to other commitments it wasn’t possible. We are very grateful that we are getting a second chance.

Things: What would be your dream gig?
Broadze: God… Headlining Wembley stadium with support from Iron Maiden, MC Hammer, Will Smith, Extreme, then an interval with a Bruce Lee martial arts show. Then we would all head back stage and have luxury suites with Belvedere vodka, Monica Bellucci, Helena Christensen, Gisele Bundchen, Cameron Diaz and Keeley Hazell waiting for anyone of us to choose the company of for the evening. Something like that.

Catch the Mirror! Mirror! boys on tour in April and May. If you enjoy good music mixed with a high energy performances, bound together with a splash undeniable talent and a generous sprinkling of pure stage presence, this band is for you. And lets face it; who doesn’t like that? It’s the perfect rock and roll recipe.

BUY BUY BUY

Wolfgang Bang/Silicon Eyes (Double A Side Single) - AVAILABLE ON ITUNES

3 Track Tape (08) - Available at Stop Scratching

Mirror! Mirror! / Rolo Tomassi 7" (06) - Available at http://www.speedowax.com

http://www.myspace.com/mirror
http://www.myspace.com/thingswelove

BERLIN after 6 months

2008-02-11T14:57:00.000Z

So I have been here in Berlin for 6 lengthy months now and it seems I have finally found my musical mecca in the shape of Club Magnet. The cherry on the icing on the cake being that i can walk to it from my flat! I have finally found a subsititute for my favourite Birmingham club night of all time (Resurrection @ Subway for those not in the know) so perhaps I'll be able to stay this side of the continent or a little longer than 2 weeks in future...

In other news my favourite fashion entrepreneur Cassandra and I have decided that a fashion blog for the not-so-style-challenged folks of the midlands is in order! Have a peek at MAGPIE.EYE (link on the right). It's in the early stages at the moment but we are both very exited about the months to come. There are some serious style kings and qeens floating around the streets of Birmingham (& Berlin) and we intend to find them! So if you live in either of these two wonderful places expect to be accosted and interrogated by me/ her/ us when you're on your lunch break/ late for work/ feeling pooh.

I have most definitely been neglecting Fetishist for a while now so my New Feb resolution is to keep it up to date. I blame the good old pen and paper for stealing my recent musings. xxx

Courting

2007-11-06T14:24:00.000Z

I just came accross a topic on a forum on the Sun website: What is love? I found myself compelled to reply, even going so far as to attempting to register! Instead I decided to document my own musings privately (or relatively so.)

What is love?

I used to ask myself this question a few years ago. I think its an infinite combination of personal charachteristics, traits, realisations, acceptance, altruism and devotion.

Love is accepting that people aren't perfect, and never will be. Upon ones first furore into the world wide human cattle market, we absent mindedly seek perfection. It is only when you realise, "endlich", that it doesn't exist, do you realise that you are in love. Love means accepting faults and growing to love them. The things that in the first few months would make you want to tear your hair out now makes your heart swell, because imperfections in people highlight their individuality and the uniqueness of a relationship.

Love is being angry with someone and immediately regretting the situation ever arose. It's a case of even if they are in the wrong, you wish you could erase it from your memory, because to be feuding with one another isn't worth the waste of breath. You will be angry inside but it will be pushed away, wanting to recapture the precursory bliss. I suppose this is a bit sadist - neglecting "recht" in favour of love and peace. Maybe it is a sign of not loving ones self enough to accept the dangerous realities. Or maybe, it is the forgiving nature of love.

Love is so much more complicated than wild meadows and sweet heart-warming gestures. It is a taxing thing which pre-occupies the mind. In my personal experience, when people fall deeply in love, they don't look after themselves; they become ill, they neglect their health. They are so overwhelmed by these incredible feelings combined with this incredible new outlook on life that mundane things, like booking a doctor's appointment or eating something other than takeaway for dinner (i.e something that takes up more than 5 minutes) is a waste of precious time that one cannot get back. You eventually settle, you realise your foot is probably broken or your teeth are falling out, and its back to reality. Those first few months are life-threatening!

Someone on the forum said that people must be in love when they marry - so why do so many marriages break down? It's either a lifelong partnership or not, ending in divorce. But the fact is people aren't always marrying out of pure devotion for their significant other. Can you say 'Marriage of Convenience?' Sadly this is sometimes the case. All in all, marriage failure is like love in that there are countless contributing factors. But I think to remain happy you must not become complacent. Don't start taking things for granted & don't think you don't have to make the effort anymore. Lately I have been thinking that marriage is either the cherry on the cake or the final kick in the teeth; it affects couples differently. And it is terrifying to think that we do not know which applies to us until we have already said I DO! One thing surely is a given: if you were in love once, why can't it always be like that? Admittedly people change and grow but surely without a personality transplant the basic attributes remain? At least I hope that's the case.

Anyway I could rant all day and all night but I've got some literature from the middle ages to be reading so I'd better get cracking!

xx

Rule Britannia

2007-11-05T14:26:00.000Z

Berlin after 3 months. An update.

My first three months here have been less dramatic than one would have expected, considering I have been experiencing a deep rooted angst about moving abroad for the past 3 years. A fear that lay buried until the prospect of moving to Frankfurt reared its ugly head. Anyone who knows me knows that I denied Frankfurt my presence for the next academic year, instead deciding to hold out for the Holy Grail of German cities: Berlin. My feelings at the start of my German degree revolved around the musings that after spending two years away from home in Birmingham (and I use 'away from home' loosely), I would be ready for the next step in the adventure known as life - doing one accross the channel to Bonny Deutschland.

In reality however,I was only ever 20 minutes away from my family, and about 10 minutes away from my brother and nephews. I have never been further, nor did I want to be. That was how I liked it. I found myself comfy and settled and totally content in Birmingham - those sentiments only securing my doubts & resentment of leaving British soil. But then, after 2 years of Grammar-based turmoil I finally took the plunge and signed my 12 month legally-binding contract with an aloof, long-haired, wiry looking German man, for a 2 bedroomed flat in the heart of Berlins art scene.

In theory this all sounds perfect, and it really is. But I have come to a certain conclusion that places can be incredible and amazing and inspiring and life-fulfilling. But for me, the place is not charachterised by the monuments or the shopping districts (although I am partial to the latter!), it's solely about the people you surround yourself with. In short, I miss England. Not for its pathetic excuse for public transport. Not for the BulRing or Topshop. Not for the £1.99 fry ups in Asda. I miss the god blessed people!

The First One

2007-08-15T13:49:00.001+01:00

With my imminent departure from the shores of UK, I thought it would be wise to document my transition from Birmingham resident to a Berlin newcomer... (Clearly MySpace is just not enough. Ha!)

Prepare for 5,000,000 photos of Berlin monuments and drunken Jennifers sprawled accross the streets of Prenzlauer.