Saima Says Style

Today I was in central London with a friend and we popped along to the The Mangle Xmas Sale as we were close by. I had told myself I wouldn’t spend any money but then…Rob Ryan was there! And all his tiles were £5! I just had to get this one because I’d had my eye on it for ages and it just reminds me of my husband whenever I see it. Rob was so lovely and humble when I told him how much I loved his work.

Then I saw Hazel Nicholls of Reapwhatisew. I love her stuff too and have been coveting her pastel “It’s What Inside That Counts” print for ages. At £100 I’ve been a bit reluctant to buy it. On her stall however she was selling artist’s proofs of her prints for £20 and when I asked her, it turned out she did have a pastel one! Hurrah.

After the fair we went to check out the ice skating at Somerset House. They had set up a Tiffany’s Tuck Shop…well I’ll let the pictures do the talking here. (Poor quality as they’re taken with my camera phone.) All in all, another fun day in my favourite city.

This was my first trip to Columbia Road flower market in London and it turned out to be quite a treat. So many different plants and flowers; tropical flowers and orange trees. The wonderful weather just added to the whole experience.

There are also a lot of vintage and gift boutiques around, including Open House. They have two rooms with gift items, vintage furniture and homewares. They also have a garden featuring plants and other gift items. The owners very kindly let me take some photos. I will definitely be going back to Columbia Road the next time I have a free weekend.

A wise man once said that if you’re tired of London, you’re tired of life. I’d be inclined to agree; there’s always something to do in this city and I enjoy every minute of it. I’d love to bring some London “souvenirs” into my home and I think these items would be a perfect way to show my love for London.

1. Tube Map Mirror – £59.99
2. London transport canteen teapot – £14.67
3. London Tray – £28
4. Telephone Box Money Box – £4.99

I’m a terrible Londoner who should know how unpredictable the weather can be around these parts. When I left work today it was snowing; I had no gloves, stupid shoes on and no umbrella! I had to splash out £18 for an umbrella from Accessorize; way more than I’d normally spend but desperate times…

I consoled myself with the fact that the umbrella would look great with the dream hallway I’ve been picturing for the last few days. I’ve seen some items that would go perfectly together to create a glamorous yet quirky entry way to any home. I especially love the moustache key holder by suddenly, it’s real. My husband said I could buy it if he was allowed to grow a handlebar moustache to match. Fair trade I think!

1. Gloss black mustache key hook – $45 (delivery to UK available)
2. Baroque Console Table – £110
3. Owl Umbrella Stand – $140
4. Clear umbrella – £18 (available in store only)

Given the amount of snow in London over the last week, I thought it’d be a good idea to hunt out some suitable snow boots; without sacrificing on style of course! I’ve seen a lot of people sporting wellington boots for the treacherous commute to and from work. Here are my top four choices of wellies to see you through not only winter but also the inevitable wet British springtime.

1. Crocs Georgie Boots (various colours) – £33.79
2. Wedge Heel Wellington Boots – £14.99
3. Pink Heart Wellies (with matching bag) – £24.99
4. Hunter Festival Lace Wellington Boots (various colous) – £49.99