"Forget about the Price Tag."

Some people assume that when you shop in Charity shops and look at a price tag which reads ‘£1.99’, its instantly not a desirable item. Why get something second-hand when you can find a cleaner and more up-to-trend garment on the high streets? Well, if I spent all my pennies on brands, my wardrobe would be a lot emptier, especially being a student for the last three years. The Charity shop has been my saviour. Don’t get me wrong, I am in love with Urban, Topshop, American Apparel and the likes but I can always count on Age UK to sort me out with a Granny chic blouse or Oxfam to feed my new love of lilac knits. 

Checkered shirts are another love of mine and I found this one in Salvation Army. I couldn’t resist.

I always like to buy shirts a couple of sizes bigger but have only just been able to find the right balance between ‘babe baggy’ and ‘bin-baggy.’ This one is a shorter length so can easily be tucked into high-waisted numbers or tied up without looking too over-sized. £2.99?! Well who could blame me? Especially as pastels are so in season. What a bargain. 

I  think I will always shop in second-hand stores, ‘cos just think; you are making yourself feel good as well as helping others: The best kind of retail therapy     

                                                                         

… and there it is; My very first newspaper article.

This article is proof that pestering an editor for a good couple of weeks, heeds good results. Unfortunately a freelance wage wasn’t feasible but I have fully accepted that un-paid work is a must when seeking a career in journalism. If there’s any advice I could give to future graduates, particularly journalism/media based, do not expect job opportunities to be handed to you on a platter where you’re spoilt for choice and the most gruelling decision you’ll have to make is what employer you have to turn down. ‘Cos in all honesty… it could take years.. But if you want it enough, that won’t even be a drop in the ocean. You have to think of the bigger picture… You might be a runner, an intern, an unpaid freelance writer for a good few years but could land that job role you’ve always wanted by the age of 25, with decades ahead of you. 

I’m getting sidetracked. Back to the article…

I chose to write about something I knew a lot about; vintage fashion. 

So, it was planned. It was decided. My incessant emailing had paid off. 

I first felt disbelief and then relief, ‘cos 1) I got an opportunity to get my writing published and 2) It would be about something I was truly passionate about. 

I spent a Saturday morning walking around the town with the paper’s photographer, whilst interviewing shop owner’s about their stock and businesses. It was then that I realised I was actually doing my first, proper piece of journalism. 

I met my deadline and I waited… it was probably more painful than waiting for their initial response ‘cos my I put my work out there and was expecting it to bounce back with numerous edits before printing. 

I came home on Friday, opened the newspaper and there it was… a DOUBLE PAGE SPREAD. 

"I am officially a published writer…" [I kept telling myself… in my head of course] It took a while to sink in  and I spent that night sat, slightly bemused, excited for the future whilst swigging on a bottle of Apple cider. It was then I felt like I could do anything. But like all aspiring journalists, when one project finishes, panic ensues at the the thought of waiting for another… I wonder what my next step will be and where it will take me… but until I figure this out, I’m going to enjoy this little dream for a while.

You know what, there was a little part of me that did feel like Ms. Bradshaw, writing for her local paper, indulging in one of her many passions; fashion, writing about it, and sharing it with her city. 

Now, where’s my next project?! 

Grazia?!

HAIM - IF I COULD CHANGE YOUR MIND

The percussion-powered trio have finally released their debut album after months of us having to overplay the early E.Ps. The tracks are just as bright as the album cover. Punchy, poppy and boppy. ‘If I Could Change Your Mind’ has to be my favourite of their newer releases. The melody and harmonies are beautiful and makes me want to be dancing on a beach in the summer. Its the record everyone needs to brighten up the winter grey skies and dreary commutes to work in the morning.

Really can’t wait to see them next Spring in Nottingham. I used to go to University there and the “music scene” was one of the main deciding factors. I will be merry, screaming out the lyrics next to my two pals I used to go University with. Something nostalgic and new taking place. 

I would like to write a review about their live show though, so let’s hope I remember most of it after those ciders!

So I Wrote a Review About the New Love Inks Album...

… and its currently featuring on thegirlsare website! 

Check it out here:

http://www.thegirlsare.com/2013/09/20/review-love-inks-3/

WOLF ALICE - SHE

This song reeks of Nirvana, and I love it. 

It’s about time Wolf Alice released some more material, teasing us with great set lists on tour, but never being able to find them on Youtube or iTunes. We only have to wait till October 7th for their EP, ‘Blush’ now though… Awesome.

NYPC - Hard Knocks.

New Young Pony Club (now known as “NYPC”) are BACK. I love their old stuff like ‘The Bomb’ and ‘Ice Cream,’ but this track really makes me wana dance. New name, new sound, new fans? We’ll see… I’m hoping they finally get the recognition they deserve. 

Frankie Rose - Sorrow

I’m very excited for this new Frankie Rose record out September 24th.

You’ll wish the melodies in ‘Sorrow’ never stop. (… and they don’t if you keep pressing “repeat,” which I’ve been doing, a lot).