Did anyone miss me?

What: Some time ago I've ditched the blog and submersed myself into studies and work and harmful habits (including risky pathological 'outervalues' choices). It happened because it was logical at the time. Also, there were some pretty creepy people trying to get friendly (WE ALL KNOW WHO YOU ARE). I'm nice but not that nice.
Now I'm back and I have some company. My company is very much like me- charming, Russian, tall, slim, beautiful, clever, modest! But in grander proportions. I call her my 'karmic sister', but to you she's Anastasia (BTW here you can find her wonderful instagram www.instagram.com/pinkypinkasso ).

Why: By popular demand, because the world needs me (and I'm better doubled).
Expect to see wholesome & cutesy stuff from Anastasia and all sorts of new twists from me. SOON. And often. And in Russian, too.

Hoarding: F-troupers, the ballad of leopard vs dalmation print, aka shoe-porn.

What: You might remember my plum coloured patent leather bow-booties by F-troupe I posted about back in November... Well, seeing how friendly we got together, I decided to avoid the hazard of getting too attached to a shoe just to find out its tragic death at the most unexpected moment; I went to the store, picked two of the craziest pairs they had and took them home to join the ever-growing family of odd looking shoes. Considering we're fast approaching SS12, these AW11/12 shoes were massively discounted. Which is what? A win win!

Why: Because shoes have a life of their own and thus can add 'liveliness' to the most unimaginative ensembles.
The dalmation print pair will look great with light blue scruffy jeans and a faded red/ or neon loose-knit sweater or a beige t-shirt and a utility green parka on top; or with a black leather skirt and tights with an oversized casual t-shirt; or with black trousers and a blazer for a more sophisticated look, or with an LBD... But I think the pair will work particularly well with bare legs, nude/pink coloured dress and a denim jacket. Can't wait to show you!
The leopard print pair is a more standard choice and goes with everything we've all been wearing for the past 2 years- skinny jeans of all sorts, mini skirts, maxi dresses, black, cream, green, gold, red, denim, lace... and everything else, aside from any other 'animal' related references. Really. It's almost a safe choice.
While I understand how these might be 'a little bit' too much for some, for me they epitomise just the right mix of practical, eccentric and over-the-top ingredients for a perfect shoe. What do you guys think, would you ever wear something like these?

Outfit: Ghost world Christmas.

What am I wearing: Charity shop salvaged ensemble. The leather skirt cost me 6 pounds and the cute yet absolutely ridiculous sweater was 4 pounds. Tell me just how much you love a good deal and I'll tell you I love it more! These two were meant for each other.

Why am I wearing what I'm wearing: By now, I shouldn't need to tell you that bright red and black leather is an obvious natural combination. What can be better than that? I'll tell you what: a bright red knitted cotton Christmas jumper with a Dalmatian and snowflakes all over. Oh yes. It doesn't get better than this. Top it off with clunky chunky grungy manly boots for 10 pounds and your own mother wouldn't want to talk to you. But you'd be so cool in my world. And that's all that matters. At least around here.

P.S. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Outfit: A grin on green.

What am I wearing: Fluffy shawl, black leather, green fur and shiny plum shoes. Because I was planning to see the epic Nosferatu at the equally epic Prince Chalres Cinema. I was also planning to be the star of the cinema. What I did not plan is that while I was taking these pictures the tickets will sell out. Epic fail on all accounts, obviously. Inspiration comes from the movie I didn't see- the drama, monsters, vampires, frequent faintings, creepy castles & fair ladies.

Why am I wearing what I'm wearing:  My imagination went wild again. I wanted to look Nosferatu-appropriate and interesting. I bet I succeeded in looking 'interesting' in a very english sense of the word. As for whether it was cinema appropriate I'll never know. Probably not. But thankfully in London no one really cares what others wear. Unless it's human foetus ear-rings. And even then. Everyone's too self-involved to pay attention to others. Trust me. I know.
Now, let's break it down- the dress- long, old-fashioned and boring? But what if it's velvet, fancy and fits- maybe not? But weird in the daytime, right? Right. How about a leather jacket on top to add a modern-day edge? I know, I'm full of brilliant ideas. And what now? Hairy grey shawl or a green rabbit-fur pom-pom scarf? Both. For 2 reasons- 1) I was afraid to get cold (it's good you didn't know I'm Siberian); 2) They're like pets I've never had- a rabbit and a British cat; and I love them both equally.
The shawl was given to me by my friend. It's from Russia. With love (... I can only hope!). It's super duper traditional and makes me think of my grandmother. It also reminds me of heritage and trends this season. Not because my grandma is trendy, but because it's a fantabulous idea to ditch British heritage obsession for one that's closer to your heart instead.

New in: F-troupe booties

What is this? Comfortable, all leather (including soles) student-budget-friendly, funky boots by F-troupe. To me, it's a whimsical remake of Victorian footwear. Shiny plum leather, bows all over the front and a clever zip at the back is an unbeatable combination, even if made in China. Which they are. 

The store is breathtaking, I wanted to take the whole thing home. It's 'part Dickensian Curiosity shop with an eclectic mix of Victorian bric-a-brac.' Inside, they've got odd things like taxidermy animals, antique dolls, shoes and jewelry, imagery of circus sideshow acts (including a bearded woman) and of course, great shoes. Check it out if you're in town.

Why did I buy them? I like crazy shoes and I don't like heels. These make me think of grown up ladies shoes from Victorian England, dark magic, long velvet skirts, elaborate jewelry that represents something (think hair bracelets, perfume buttons, heavy sterling lockets, index finger serpent rings, seed pearls, immortalized insects, stuffed animals), big houses with low ceilings, small windows, beams and squeaky floors. Monstrous spiders, bonfires, smoke, fog, crunchy leaves and bad food by candle light.

They also make me think of little girls shoes from whenever, Luella (RIP!) and Vivetta. And bow-ties. And English gentlemen. I guess it's clear by now that pretty much everything makes me think of English gentlemen...