Tales of the Pink Bike Summer 2011 

31 August 2011

A subtle way to celebrate

British fashion this autumn

Alessandra Ambrosio was pictured in Hollywood this week holding a delicate, union flag patterned clutch.

You can emulate the supermodel's subtle and stylish tribute to Britain with this vibrant Alexander McQueen clutch (£1,195). The delicate pink accessory shows a rebel side with a Swarovski crystal and pearl-embellished skull clasp.

If you prefer a more rustic choice, then you may consider Jigsaw's clutch (£289) that features brass flat studs on high quality leather.

Whichever you prefer, both of these clutch bags allow you to celebrate British fashion this autumn in a sophisticated and understated way.

Fran & Jane to host top launch event for the

Autumn/Winter 2011 collection

Fran & Jane will be launching the new Autumn/Winter 2011 collection on the 8^thof September from 6pm at Dundrum Town Centre. The renowned Irish fashion company will not only host a catwalk show to showcase their latest key looks, but a raffle will also be held to raise money for the Ross Nugent Foundation.

Some of the fantastic prizes on offer include Teeth Whitening from Dr. Paul Quinlan to the value of €600, as well as a luxury stay at Muckross Park Hotel and Cloister's Spa in Killarney.

Miss Ireland will open the fashion show and TV presenter, Laura Woods, will present the big raffle. The camera crew from Xpose will be on hand to record the event for TV3.

Don't forget to dress to impress as the winner of the "Best Dressed Fran & Jane Lady" competition will walk away with a complimentary outfit.

The event is free and all are welcome to attend.

21 August 2011

One of my recent features for the Irish Mail on Sunday discussed the growing trend among females to use false beauty accessories to enhance image. The feature particularly referred to the use of temporary materials such as hair and eyelash extensions, false nails, fake tan and 'chicken fillets' (to increase the bust).  

This piece not only addressed the cost of enhancing one's image and the endless maintenance required to support the falsities, but it also highlighted how the end result often leads to the sexual objectification of women and a loss of confidence to remain natural. A generic image is created through the use of identical products and this can lead to a loss of individuality. 

As part of this editorial assignment, I illustrated the difference between the natural look and the fake look. Which do you prefer? Tweet @laura_toogood

 IMAGE COPYRIGHT

Publication: Irish Mail on Sunday

Photographer:Ruan Van Der Sande ¦ Makeup Artist: Gabby Ciullo 

19 August 2011

Style Spot: Mulberry

My latest Style Spot is the gorgeous Mole Grey Sparkle Tweed Bayswater bag from Mulberry (£775). I am a big fan of Mulberry as this company started in Somerset, which is the host county of my local city, Bath.

The size and style of this iconic bag indicates that it will be a timeless accessory in the wardrobe. It is also very versatile and can be carried through a number of seasons and matched with a variety of looks. The sparkle weed leather adds an extra special finishing touch to this luxury item.

12 August 2011

Host a BBQ at Bucks

If you are staying at home in Dublin this August, or even visiting the Irish capital, then Bucks Townhouse would be delighted to host a BBQ for you and your friends. Celebrity chef, Andrew Rudd, will be on hand to cater for private parties and you can enjoy some delicious food before dancing late into the evening at Dublin's premiere VIP club.

To book please contact info@buckwhaleys.ie

'Smooch' launches

A brand new cosmetics brand has launched in the UK. Smooch offers a number of colourful cosmetics, including 24 nail colours, 12 duo eye-shades and four blushers.

The collection also comprises a number of lipsticks and glosses. Prices are reasonable, with items starting from £4.95.

Take a look at the full collection HERE.

Trend Tip

Heritage chic is a prominent trend this autumn. As we make the transition to a new season, one style tip from Tales of the Pink Bike is to snap up some stylish tweed.

Top of the wish list for following this fashion is Burberry's Tailored Wool Tweed Military Coat. Designed in a shape that elegantly sculpts your figure, this fabulous piece boasts exquisite detail such as hand woven leather buttons. Those wishing to splash out on this luxury coat will need to part with £1,895; however it will no doubt prove a timeless feature of your wardrobe.

If you want to refrain from a high fashion spend, but still want to opt for an upmarket purchase, Jigsaw fits your bill. This fabulous tweed jacket featured in You magazine over the weekend and will be available for £225 when it hits selves in September.

For a more casual and affordable option, Topshop has released a Knitted Tweed Tipped Jacket. This enables you to follow the trend in monochrome tones for a bargain price of £42.

Top hat tips from a winning milliner

If you want to turn heads this summer by wearing a striking hat, then don't miss these top tips from Edel Ramberg

Edel Ramberg has previously featured on Tales of the Pink Bike as one to watch in the world of millinery. Her striking designs have been worn to a number of high profile events this season, including the recent wedding of Zara Phillips to Mike Tindall.

The bubbly blonde designer, who hails from Galway, has reason to be celebrating after one of her creations was crowned Best Hat at the Galway Races. Worn by her close friend, Sieglinde Mullers, the striking headpiece recorded a debut win for Edel in a Ladies Day competition. No doubt more success will follow and Edel is hoping to emulate the result at this week's Dublin Horse Show (judges pictured below).

If you are attending the Horse Show and want to turn heads on Ladies Day, Edel has revealed her Top Hat Tips exclusively for Tales of the Pink Bike:

• When choosing your headpiece, consider what colour suits your skin tone. When something is worn so close to the face, it needs to compliment your colouring and wearing something just because it matches the skirt or handbag may not be the best idea!
• If you have already decided on shoes and a handbag, then make sure you bring these with you when choosing your headpiece.
• Wear something that is comfortable. There is nothing worse than having a headpiece that will cause discomfort throughout the day.
• Fix your accessory using elastic hair bands and always try to get the elastic to match the colour of your hair.
• Windy days are always a difficult. I always carry spare hair pins; if the headpiece is secured to the hair, the worst thing that can happen is you may take off in flight with the hat, rather than it taking off on you!
• A small bit of backcombing is always great for securing any pins and the headpiece. It also means your hair won't be so flat when you take the hat off at the end of the day!
  

26th July 2011

 Bucks to host the ultimate Bank Holiday party!

Bucks are planning a corker of a celebration for this weekend's Irish Bank Holiday! Their annual BBQ and Summer Party will be taking place on Sunday 1st of August from 7pm-11pm. Guests will be welcomed by a complimentary drink in the new Terrace Bar and the first part of the night includes live music, a DJ and BBQ dinner.

If you plan to party with Dublin's hottest social crowd then it is vital you RSVP. Tickets can be bought on the door (€10) and the celebrations will continue in the nightclub until 3am. A number of Ireland's leading models will be hosting this fantastic evening of entertainment. Get your tickets now by contacting Bucks at info@buckwhaleys.ie

STOP PRESS!

I am excited reveal an exclusive mini-documentary that I have produced and presented for 'Jigsaw TV', which takes you behind the scenes of the renowned fashion company's latest campaign.

Whether you would like a sneak peek of their Autumn/Winter 2011 collection, or simply want to find out how a major shoot works; take a look HERE.

For those who like the backing track, you may be interested in hearing more from the rather talented artist, Bressie.

21 July 2011

My love/hate relationship with lip gloss

I have to admit that I am not a huge fan of lip gloss. Long hair gets stuck to it on a windy day and it typically leaves an unsightly smudge mark on anything you drink from; whether it is a coffee mug or a wine glass.

However, despite the draw backs, I have been persuaded by Lancome to add a secret weapon to my makeup bag that will help create the perfect pout. Cue the Lychee Juicy Tube.

The bright pink product boasts a gorgeous scent that is complemented by ultra-hydrating qualities. The gloss nourishes your lips and leaves them looking and feeling succulent.

This product is a must have for those of you with a lip gloss addiction. However, if you share my love/hate relationship with this item of makeup then be warned; the Juicy Tube is still a 'hair trap' on a blustery day, so check the weather forecast before application!

Jigsaw TV

Behind the scenes

The latest mini documentary for Jigsaw TV will be released soon.

In the meantime; here are some new behind-the-scenes photographs from the King's Road filming that was previously reported on Tales of the Pink Bike (see July 4^thpost). I am wearing a dress from the Jigsaw Spring/Summer collection that appeared in Vogue. The cardigan is also designed by Jigsaw.

Watch in full here

15 July 2011

Racing Style Spot!

The racing season is in full swing and for those of you planning to attend Ladies Day at either Galway Races or Glorious Goodwood; you might like to take a look at this gorgeous headpiece by Edel Ramberg.

It certainly caught my eye and will undoubtedly turn heads in a bustling crowd of race goers. The gorgeous design is both striking and elegant. I would suggest wearing a simple black dress, so the stunning creation is the focal point of your outfit.

Trend Alert!

Crackle effect nails

Last night I cycled the Pink Bike to Parson's Green to enjoy a drink with a close friend of mine. The stylish fashionista in question was wearing some fabulous nail polish that creates a striking crackle effect.

The new product has been released by OPI and is making celebrities weak at the knees. Shatter is simply applied over two coats of normal nail polish and once dry, it cracks to create a stylish two-texture effect.

Take a look at the video on the OPI website to see Shatter in action

12 July 2011

  Cycle in style

Tales of the Pink Bike is excited to learn about a new Irish label called Georgia in Dublin. Available in Dublin boutique, Anastasia, the range helps you deal with mixed weather conditions in style.

Designed predominantly for cyclists and walkers, the brand aims to protect active fashionistas from the elements. For more details take a look at the Anatastia and Georgia in Dublin websites.

Introducing Jigsaw TV

I am pleased to announce the launch of Jigsaw TV. I have been busy developing this exciting new venture for Jigsaw over the last couple of months. The first mini-film to go live is about a wonderful flower display at their flagship store on the King's Road. The store was decorated in celebration of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and I interviewed property director, Colin Bryant, who managed the project.

To watch the film, please click on the image below…

 03 July 2011

Sun cream for your hair!

Summer has finally arrived and whether you are enjoying the rays of sunshine at home or abroad, it is important to look after your skin and hair. Tales of the Pink recently featured the amazing sun cream, Australian Gold, which not only protects you from damaging UV rays, but the tan accelerator ingredients help develop a golden glow.  

Although protecting our skin may be the first thing that leaps to mind in warm weather; we must not forget about our hair. Kerastase is here to help and their Soleil Micro-Voile Protecteur is a great sun care treatment spray. I use this to maintain the health of my hair during the summer season.

The product protects against the damaging effects of UV rays, sea water and chlorine. It leaves your hair feeling silky and supple, whilst guaranteeing a brilliant shine. The Photo-Defense Filter provides anti-photo degradation, while the Mineral Oils ensure this product is water resistant.

30 June 2011

Follow in the footsteps of Pippa Middleton and

Chelsy Davy to be on trend this summer

Wimbledon has been packed with familiar faces over the last week and 'it' girls Pippa Middleton and Chelsy Davy were pictured putting their best foot forward in some rather stylish Espadrille inspired footwear.

The girls modelled the fashionable summer style perfectly, with Chelsea opting for a black version and Pippa choosing a subtle tan shade.

Tales of the Pink Bike has sourced three high street wedge styles, which will ensure you stay on trend for July.

The Canvas T-Bar Espadrille from Jigsaw is available in three different colours. Of course, Tales of the Pink Bike loves the fuchsia version of this stylish and comfortable shoe, which is a bargain at £78.

LK Bennett has a gorgeous wedge shoe in stock called Maddox. More expensively priced at £165, the raffia wedged heel creates a modern silhouette, with a summery twist.

23 June 2011

Kildare Gets Set for another

Royal Visit for the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby this Sunday

Earlier this week, invited guests gathered at Residence Members' Club on St Stephen's Green to celebrate the launch of the eagerly anticipated Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival. The Derby takes place this weekend at The Curragh Racecourse. 

While enjoying Bollinger champagne and a selection of delicious canapés specially prepared by the Residence Chef, the topic of conversation on everyone's lips was Queen Elizabeth's horse, Carlton House who is set to travel for Sunday's Dubai Duty Free Derby.  Speculation was rife on who will accompany the colt to represent the Royal Family and this will more than likely not be announced in advance, for security reasons.

Speaking in advance of the festival, Colm McLoughlin, MD of Dubai Duty Free commented; "There is a nice link back to the United Arab Emirates and Carlton House as His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, Ruler of Dubai, gifted this horse to The Queen. We are looking forward to a great weekend at The Curragh."

Do you need an outfit for a special occasion? Whether it's Ladies Day you have in mind, or a personal event such as a wedding, I have styled some summer party outfits from Kew's latest collection to feature on their blog.

With the sale in full swing, now is a great time to take advantage of some brilliant reductions. For full details of each outfit, please click on the relevant picture below.

 

 

 

 

The Colour Block Fashion

Colour blocking has become a top trend this summer with everyone from Nicole Scherzinger to Jessica Alba donning bright colours. This latest fashion is not particularly easy to pull off and it is important to consider your skin tone and hair colour when selecting bold colours. For example, a cerise top may work better for someone with dark or blonde hair, whereas those with red locks may prefer to opt for an aqua tone.

Jigsaw has just brought out a brand new Colour Block range to help you follow this key summer fashion. To find out more, take a look at my review of the collection on 'Inside Jigsaw'.

Planning a sun holiday?

Don't leave without this must have product

Now, I know that I have featured Australian Gold sun cream on Tales of the Pink Bike before, but I really can't gush enough about this amazing product. I recently holidayed in Sicily and with scorching temperatures my skin needed gentle exposure to the rays.

After using Australian Gold for several years, I know it is near impossible to burn when using this product. Not only does the sun cream do an amazing job at protecting your skin, but its light and absorbent consistency is makes it easy to apply, even when sitting on a sandy beach. The tan accelerator ingredient encourages a golden glow and the product has a divine, tropical aroma.

I cannot recommend Australian Gold highly enough and it is an absolute must have this summer. I promise you will never look back.

Australian Gold products are available from Lookbest.co.uk

 Look like a Duchess this June with a tailored dress

I have long been a fan of Kate Middleton's elegant and classy style. Some critics argue that she dresses older than her years; however, I would beg to differ. The Duchess is always immaculately turned out, with classically cut clothes that ooze sophistication. What's more, she often gets her look from the high street.

Jigsaw, Reiss, Whistles and LK Bennett are among her favourite brands and she is a fan of tailored dresses. With this in mind, Tales of the Pink Bike has selected three fabulous and colourful tailored dresses, which are available from the high street this June.

The Selina Dress (£195) from LK Bennett:

 

 

The Tina Dress from LK Bennett £225:

 

 June 01, 2011

 Hang with the fashion crowd and find out

who will be crowned Miss Bucks 2011

The Irish beauty pageant season is in full swing. One of the most in-demand titles on the circuit is Miss Bucks, and it is easy to see why. This year the prize fund includes €500, a year long contract with top modelling agency, Assets, as well as a photoshoot with international fashion photographer, Lili Forberg.

The big final takes place this Sunday at Dublin's trendiest nightclub, Bucks Townhouse. You can hang with the cool crowd as fashion editor for Stellar magazine, Corina Gaffey, is joined on the judging panel by Irish supermodel, Sarah Morrissey (above) and the renowned photographer Lili Forberg.

Sponsors include Rockstar Tan, The Art Team and Bourjois Cosmetics. The beautiful Daniella Moyles will MC on the evening and entertainment will not just include the bevy of beauty queen contestants hitting the catwalk. Livin Proof will also play a live set and DJs Ray Shah, Keith Feely, Rory Long and Gill will spin the decks.

26 May 2011 

Bargain alert!

Jigsaw has an amazing discount on one of their renowned bags. The

fabulous Leather Amelie Shopper bag has been reduced from £249 to £79!

Jigsaw is well known for producing high quality accessories and this bag

epitomises the quality of such products.  

For those of you with a handbag fetish, this is one bargain not to be missed!

Buy the bag HERE

 Monday, May 23, 2011

 Want to nab one of Ireland's most eligible bachelors?

Find out how in 'The Bressie Interview'

Girls, listen up! There's a tall, dark, handsome Irish musician on the loose and…wait for it… he's single! Tales of the Pink Bike reveals some insider tips on how you can impress one of Ireland's most eligible bachelors.

Niall 'Nandos' Breslin (Tip #1: start hanging out in his favourite fast food joint, Nandos) is back on the music scene. Bressie, as he likes to be known, was previously the lead singer of The Blizzards, and this week the talented star will release his first solo single.

The Mullingar man in now based in London and admits he is missing his band members; however, he is also keen to branch out on his own, "I won't lie, it's intimidating starting out as a solo artist and I miss the support of the lads; but it's a logical progression."

His single, Can't Stay Young (Forever) is out this Friday and the album will follow suit; "Since moving over to London I have come across so many more genres of music and worked with artists from different creative backgrounds. This has opened my way of thinking in terms of production and I think this will come out in the album. I also am unhealthily obsessed with the 80's in terms of music and the sub culture, so I think you will hear this manifested in album." (Tip #2: think Wham! Shoulder pads and leg warmers)

With an impressive physique, it comes as no surprise that Bressie has a keen interest in all things sporty. He formerly played rugby at International level and also for Leinster; "I was insanely in to sports as a teenager and still am. I played GAA mostly in school and then started getting in to rugby more seriously once I went to University College Dublin, where I won a rugby scholarship. I played for Ireland at youth level before progressing to a professional contract with Leinster for three years." (Tip #3 learn the rules of rugby)

However, music started to take preference over sport; "My love of music began to far out weigh my love of rugby, and although it was tough, I had to make the decision to commit to my music'.

Bressie still maintains a keen interest in physical activities (good news for us girls); "I have started to get in to Yoga recently and I am slightly obsessed with it at the moment. I find it impossible to switch off and yoga definitely helps with this." (Tip #4 Limber up ladies and get flexible)

On paper, and in person, Bressie ranks pretty highly on the list of desirable men. His current status is 'very single'; so, what does this eligible bachelor desire in a girlfriend? 'I like girls that don't make you feel like you have to change your personality to be around them. I like someone that makes you feel comfortable. I love ambition and drive; my biggest turn off is someone who doesn't have a passion or goal'. (Tip #5 be yourself and make sure you have a dream to follow)

Follow Bressie on Twitter and Facebook and see the video for

Can't Stay Young Forever HERE

Champagne whilst you shop

Join Jigsaw to celebrate the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

Those followers of Tales of the Pink Bike who are based in London, should pop along to Jigsaw's flagship store next week, which is located on the King's Road in Chelsea.

 

To celebrate the first official day of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Jigsaw has created an amazing store display and will be offering champagne to all customers on Tuesday. 

 

If you are in the vicinity of Sloane Square tube station, then keep an eye out for Jigsaw representatives, who will be handing out special seed packets. Entries are also open for Jigsaw's latest competition, where one lucky winner will win a year's supply of roses. Find out more here.

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Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Feature Interview

 

I was recently interviewed by the lovely Niamh O'Reilly for the May edition of Equestrian magazine, which hit the shelves earlier this month in Ireland and the UK.

Included in the feature piece is 'Tales of the Pink Bike's 5 Best Boutiques in Dublin'. Niamh runs a fabulous online magazine called www.beautycouture.ie; I would definitely recommend checking it out for style and beauty advice.

 

 

 

 

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 Saturday, May 14, 2011

 

 

 

 

A flying visit to Ireland

Punchestown Races followed by

the launch of Lafayette; fun times with old friends

 

Last weekend I managed to squeeze in a very quick visit to my home-from-home, Ireland. I was lucky enough to attend Punchestown Races as a guest of Arnotts. The racing combines two of my great loves; horses and fashion. It was the first time I had returned to Punchestown since representing Great Britain at the International Three Day Event in 2002.

 

 

 

 

 

A fabulous three course lunch was served in the main marquee facing the racecourse and the action on the track, along with the 'Arnotts Best Dressed Lady' competition, were highlights of the day.

 

Regular followers of Tales of the Pink Bike will know that I normally love to wear a hat to the racing. However, with four flights to negotiate in four days, I decided it would be easier to travel without one.

 

I opted to wear a white Calvin Klein dress, vintage pearls and a navy and white bag from House of Fraser to match my cardigan. It was a wonderful day and I would like to extend my thanks to Arnotts for their generous hospitality.

 

Photo: www.contactmusic.com

 

Following the racing, I enjoyed a reunion with my UCD friends in the capital city. We popped in to the launch of Lafayette (above), which is a lovely new bar located near The Westin Hotel. Champagne and canapés kick-started the evening and afterwards we enjoyed some girly time in one of my favourite haunts, Residence, before heading to The Pink nightclub for a dance.

 

Due work commitments, my trip to the Emerald Isle ended up being very brief. However, I had a fantastic time and many thanks to my wonderful friends for making it such an enjoyable occasion. I hope to return to Dublin again soon for another visit.

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Wednesday, May 11, 2011

 

 

 

 

Scented Candles; essential for relaxation!

Tales of the Pink Bike is a big fan of scented candles. There is nothing nicer than coming home to your favourite scent, or relaxing in a warm bubble bath in sweet smelling candlelight.

My favourite candle of all time is the Lime Basil & Mandarin Home Candle from Jo Malone (£35), which gives off their signature scent of fresh, zesty citrus embellished with the warmth of woodlands. 

Another candle I enjoy comes from a fashion brand. Although Jigsaw may be better known for their stylish clothing and accessories, the British company also has a lovely beauty range called Organics Beauty.  Among the goodies on offer is a rather scrummy scented Candle, available for just £25. The candle blends 17 essentials oils including, bergamot, lemon, sweet orange, mandarin and lime. Simply divine - in fact I could do with lighting one now!

'Lucy Goes to Hollywood'

Two of my closest friends, Rosanna Davison and Marisa Mackle have recently launched their latest children's book.

'Lucy Goes to Hollywood' is authored by Marisa, with Rosanna illustrating the story. The book is aimed at 9 to 11 year olds and follows to story of a girl called Lucy, who goes to America to become a star, but is then disillusioned with the fake world of TV and child stars.

The book is currently available online and from all leading book stores in Ireland.

02 May 2011

Mimi's Beauty Room opens in Sandymount Village

Southside ladies will be delighted to hear that a new beauty parlour called Mimi's Beauty Room has opened in Sandymount Village. Offering a number of premium treatments, the salon uses top range products and is perfect for those looking for luxury beauty care.

The salon marks the first venture in to the business world for Jessica Ryan and Karen Buckley. However, both girls can seek advice from their experienced families, with Jessica the daughter of leading businessman, Arthur Ryan of Penney's fame and Karen a member of the renowned FX Buckley family.

Jessica (pictured right) spoke exclusively to Tales of the Pink Bike about the new enterprise and also revealed details of the services offered; "We are providing express beauty treatments so customers will see instant results. We offer everything from manicures to advanced waxing and lash extensions. We provide a spray tanning service using Rockstar tan and also retail this product, along with other beauty accessories and gorgeous costume jewellery called Sparkle Jewellery."

Although Mimi's Beauty Room has launched in recessionary times, Jessica is confident that demand remains strong for luxury beauty care, "Obviously setting up in a recession is not easy, but we truly believe in our concept. Sometimes you have to take risks when you have faith in something". 

So, if you are looking to indulge in some preening whilst enjoying a glamorous and charming atmosphere, then Tales of the Pink Bike would highly recommend a trip to Mimi's Beauty Room. 

 Tales of the Pink Bike Autumn/Winter 2010 & Spring 2011 

is available in the Archive section