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Monday 31 December 2012

2k12: Last Post - Short story, 'And the winner is...'

Ah! Soon another year comes to an end...I hope you all have a lovely night and may next year bring you great joy, love and happiness.

This is a story quite close to my heart, I hope you enjoy.



'And the winner is...'

Blair was sitting nervously in fluorescent lighting waiting for the hair stylist to curl the last strand of her long glossy auburn hair. Her pale green chiffon dress rustled softly as she got up.  As she checked her reflection in the mirror, her face flushed with self-conscious pleasure.

She had worked hard to produce an original dress to send down the runway. The dress was gorgeous; it was long and seemed as if it was floating. As it was strapless, it showed off Blair's freshly tanned shoulders.

The dress took three long months to make, and was the very same dress that would determine if she would get a spread in Vogue Italia. After one last look at herself she took the dress off and placed it carefully on the mannequin from where she would later put it back on for the show.

The dress was inspired by her azure surf board she got for her fifteenth birthday. Blair was blessed with her model looks and perfect bronzed 5’9 figure. These were the very reasons she decided to model the dress herself. After all, she knew exactly how to walk the runway showing off the last piece from her collection.

Just then, Lauren Anderson walked into the room with her pointy nose sharply in the air. She smelled of freshly manicured nails. Every step she took with her 6 inch stilettos on the the wooden floor, sounded like gunshots. Her flawless alabaster skin look juxtaposed against her black asymmetric tartan dress. She walked up to Blair, swishing her sleek platinum blonde ponytail behind her. She certainly looked very put together but Blair knew she wasn’t the nicest of characters.  Definitely not the sort of person you would like to make friends with. Her witty insults would linger in your head for a very long period of time and sting every now and then like a Jellyfish.

She looked straight at Blair with her piercing dark green eyes.
“You know Blair that black is the new blue” said Lauren with a blank look on her face
Blair’s veins fizzled with fury but quickly decided to laugh "Lauren it's just blue, turquoise in fact"
"Just blue?"Lauren said calmly through tight overly glossed lips. She then added soothingly"Just blue? Are you trying to tell the world you take yourself too seriously to care about what colour of clothing you put on your back? What you don't know is that that in fact that dress is not blue, and it certainly is not turquoise! It's not azure or lapis. It is cerulean. You are also blithengly unaware that last year's runner up also designed a cerulean gown. Fashion tends to repeat itself. So I think we both know that I will be more than happy for you when we are both up on that stage, you and your fake terquoise dress coming runner up and I showing off my black tartan sweetheart as the winner"

‘The only thing fake here is your nose. Yes Lauren, everybody knows about your nose job! With that explosive comment, Blair left the room.
Lauren smirked and muttered "We'll see..."

When she came back she let out a scream. Her eyes were effulgent and were now filling up with silver tears. She clasped her hands to her mouth and just simply stared at her dress with disbelief. Her beautiful dress was splattered with bright purple paint. She stood there frozen as she knew who was responsible for this. There was a murderous flicker in her eyes. Blair wanted retribution, but she knew that this wasn’t the right time. “It’s over, my dress is ruined” Blair kept saying with her hands over face.
 Blair opened her eyes and stared at her dress. The paint was now dry and somehow made the dress look even more extraordinary in an Avant Garde sort of way.” I will continue and I will win” she said deciding not to let it ruin months and months of hard work.

Ever so quickly she put the dress on and then made her way over backstage in silver peep-toes. Her heart was beating so fast she was concerned it would fly out of her chest. It was really hectic backstage Blair thought to herself as she saw hair stylists spraying hairspray all over the models’ heads. There was no doubt there was a lot of talent in the room. There were only 10 seconds until the start of the show; Blair had never felt so nervous in her life.

Blair watched the others confidently strut down the runway. She was now taking deep breaths, to calm her nerves.

“Blair you’re up” said one of the backstage assistants.

 Blair stepped onto the runway. The lights were so bright they nearly blinded her vision. Then before she knew it, she was strutting down the catwalk with her biggest smile. She felt her dress swaying and whooshing around her. The whole crowd erupted cheering.  Blair soon noticed that Fashion TV was covering the event and felt a frission of excitement tingle through her body.

Twenty minutes later the winner was announced. It was Blair! Blair caught sight of Lauren crying uncontrollably in the distance. A sea of reporters and TV crew rushed to ask Blair about her winning design.

“What made you splash such dramatic colour on your dress?” Asked one of them.
“Let’s just say it was a last minute decision.” She said getting the retribution she was after and the coveted title of ‘Designer of the Year' and of course, her spread in Vogue Italia.

Sunday 30 December 2012

Short story: Breaking Free



 

Breaking Free

Snowflakes fell effortlessly onto the clear canvas of which my toasty brown boots trod on. I naturally felt at ease with the slow soft crunching sensation that travelled up my body as I skipped exuberantly through feathery light whipped cream. The velvety snow magically blended into the pale powdery blue skies, and the sun exuded the heat of a warm everlasting happiness. Sweet untainted air filled my lungs with neither the feeling of heavy fumes or icy bitterness, engulfing my body with sweet gentle kisses. I twirled around until I came face to face with a bare oak tree which stood stark naked in front of me. It probably felt shame and couldn’t wait until spring when it could finally step into its little green number! The oak tree was exceedingly tall; it loomed over me endeavouring to grasp the clouds, only succeeding by touching them with the very tip of its index finger. I wish I was a tree so I could break free. I stretched upwards and let me body tingle with elasticity knowing that if I just stretched a little bit higher, maybe just maybe, I could reach the heavens.

Saturday 29 December 2012

Short story: Trapped

I have been very reluctant and doubtful to post short stories on my blog for so many reasons. However, I love writing more than words can describe (ha!) and have come to the conclusion that I love sharing my work with others anyways, I might as well.

From time to time, I will post some stories on my blog. Some will be shorter than others....but nonetheless, they all will be different and exciting!

Trapped

Sitting in my white Pajero, I peer through my front passenger window only to discover pure white sand, rippling like silk. It looks innocent and naive ... yet somehow guilty as if it is withholding something from the rest of mankind. It meets the cloudy grey sky with a clear cut, the juxtaposition makes me uneasy. It is making a hole within the bottomless pit of my stomach which is slowly filling up with tarnished silver. The lifeless yellow leaved palm trees are swaying in the harsh winds, just as they have swayed for the last ten unpromising years. The pitter-patter of the dismal rain drops despondently onto the dusty windowpane. And it seemed as if only seconds later we become the unfortunate victims of merciless white sand engulfment. I feel empty as I step out of my car, which blends perfectly into the sea of uniformed dull white cars. I walk behind the others all dressed in dark blue trousers and miserable not-a-crease-in-sight white shirts. Passing emotionless cold morning faces, I wonder what life would be like if I were to live as an individual with the freedom and independence to splurge my opinions on life as openly as I willed. I soon realise that this was a childish dream. My voice is merely an echo, lost in the icy breeze swirling around society of which I blend into without choice. I am trapped within my own body. I am trapped within my own soul.
 
 

Friday 28 December 2012

Behind this Face: Zem Viv and Kate Moss

I have just written and posted two articles for Behind this Face.One on Zem Viv and the other on Kate Moss. They both took quite a while to write so please check them out if you have spare time, hopefully you will find them both very interesting! Zem Viv's article is very light and exudes happiness however, Kate's looks at both the negative and the positives of the modelling industry.

 Be sure to follow them on tumblr if you have them and like their facebook page. We promise not to spam you!




 

Thursday 27 December 2012

Sparkling Inspiration

Today I decided to compile some of my favourite looks that no doubt, will last you way longer than twenty thirteen. These looks are definately not trend based!

I am back in Dubai after a long relaxing break in Fujeirah. Bought lots and lots for myself and a few things for friends but am so glad to be back home, I actually was kissing the walls (no joke). However, I came back to a messy room...dun dun dun...guess who will pretend to be Cinderella for the next few days...me! And also have a lot of homework and revision to be catching up on. I have some posts lined up...they are more personal than the rest of my posts but lots of fun to put together (they are scheduled, haha!) See you in my next post!
Kisses,
Hannah Banana
xx

Wednesday 26 December 2012

Travelling comfy meets chic!


So as it is the winter break, many of us well be travelling back home. I am a strong believer that you should still aim to look neat & presentable in an airport...And, even though wearing sweats/jogging trousers at airports are a massive fashion faux pas in the eyes of many...I choose to differ.They keep you warm, they are comfortable and they can look cute. Take that Fashion Police!

Dark wash jeggings and leggings are super! Not only can they cover up any embarrassing spills from aeroplane food (I am the clumsiest person I know) but they are also very comfortable and flattering.

I would recommend wearing socks...no thank you to walking barefoot across the floor of the metal scanner. Plus they are a lifesaver on chilly planes! Brrrrrr.....which leads to me to my next tip: wear a scarf for added warmth and to amp up the cuteness factor!

PLEASE do not wear layers of bracelets. In fact, avoid wearing jewellery full stop whilst travelling....there is 99.99999% you will be asked to remove it.

Safe flight and kisses!
xx


Tuesday 25 December 2012

All I want for Christmas....is Chanel!

 
I am ''tanning'' on the beaches of Fujeirah right now and I am hoping you are all having a beautiful day with family full of love and great food!
Hannah
xoxo

Sunday 23 December 2012

Innocent Smoothies!


 
If you have read my 'about' section on this blog, you would know that Innocent Smoothies along side Lauren Corad are my two role models.

 Innocent were founded in 1992 after selling at a music festical. They put up a big sign asking people if they thought they should give up their jobs to make smoothies, and put a bin saying 'Yes' and a bin saying 'No" in front of the stall. Then they got people to vote with their empties. At the end of the weekend, the 'Yes' bin was full, so they resigned from our jobs the next day and got cracking.
Since then they've started making veg pots, juices and kids' drinks, in their quest to make natural, delicious, healthy foods that help people live well and die old.

I admire them for taking a leap of faith and never comprimsing their beliefs. They once said that ''If you are 70% sure about something, go for it because you will never get anywhere if you wait until you are a 100% sure''.

 Innocent has a 75% share of the £169m UK smoothie market and the company sells over two million smoothies per week. Innocent is 58% owned by The Coca-Cola Company.


 

Saturday 22 December 2012

Gift ideas!

If you are reading this then congratulations,you have survived the destruction of the world! Since Christmas is only three days away...this post is dedicated to last minute shoppers frantic for gift ideas.
I have compiled a few things that will make Christmas a wee bit sweeter.


1. A cute basket of yummies including a vanilla cake, oranges, a knife and some homemade jam.
2. Lauren Conrad's newest book: ''Beauty''
3. Gingerbread men!
4. Beautifully decorated cupcakes
5. Nail spa vouchers
6. No5 Chanel (how could you go wrong?)


 

Saturday 15 December 2012

Saturday Favourites!

I am so happy because I have finally published my first article ,here, on Sophie Dahl - who is one of my favourite models! Will hopefully have another one up quite soon but right now, I am stuck at home revising for my maths test but for purely sheer distraction, which I SO need right now, here are my favourite for this week.

Favourite memory:

 Of course, writing and publishing this to www.behindthisface.com



Favourite outfit
Love this outfit, This is Jessie from www.seamsforadesire.com!

Favourite Movie

Omg this is a must watch Christmas movie!So cute!


Favourite tumblr blog


Pretty self-explanatory, am loving this blog!


Favourite smile:
 
 

Monday 10 December 2012

Camel is the new Black!


Camel coloured clothing is absolutely, effortlessly, definitely chic and elegant. It is spotlight elegance.It was autumn 2011's biggest trend however, just like the peter pan collar craze and the high-low skirt...good trends die hard. It's always going to be around because it is a not only a trend but a colour. And it is being effortlessly sported by millions of pretty ladies all over the globe.And living practically in a desert, naturally obliges me to love camel, so it is no coincidence that I am infatuated. It just...looks so rich in colour and expensive, which of course, is always a major plus. YOU!*points double jointed finger* YOU! need. to. buy. camel. For the love of the Sahara desert and palm trees growing in Sheikh Mohammad's garden. They say it is the new black!
Keep Calm And Buy Camel!
Lots of Love,
Hannah
xx

Sunday 9 December 2012

Jack Wills in Dubai?




Being a true brit well as Jack says *sneaky first name basis right here*...being 'fabulousley british' of course, Jack Wills is very close to my heart *tear*. In my opinion, Jack Wills is sort of the representative shop of England you could say. And so upon hearing the news that there is a Jack Wills in Dubai Mall I jumped with glee. Mind you, it is probably waaay more expensive than back home in England but it's just the novelty of it opening. However, some say there is no price difference...I really don't know! Let me know if you are passing the store. If you have not heard of Jack Wills....which is HIGHLY UNLIKELY...but if you have not...well, they sell nice knickers and hoodies and pens but umm, you can buy everything else in any other shop dahlings. It is next to Topshop in the mall by the way. And if you do end up having a looksie in the shop please buy me some socks because for some redonks reason I have managed to lose all my socks...how naff is that? Beyond naff...in the valley of sheer bonkerado and old ladies who smell like lavender and eat boiled sweets.

Saturday 8 December 2012

As simple as Black and White

I got inspiration for this post from the picture below. Excuse the black bra straps however tacky
the may seem *facepalm*. Of course, this post was also a perfect distraction from painful Chemistry and Maths revision... The LBD and the LWD are essentials and I am surprised I have not blogged about it yet!






Fashion historians ascribe the origins of the LBD to Coco Chanel in the 1920s. It has since evolved to an essential to a complete wardrobe and has also managed to successfully make it's way back year after to the catwalk. They say woman should own a simple, elegant black dress that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Investing in a good *cough* maybe designer *cough* dress is wise as it will last more than a life time. But I think any chic LBD is the way to go!

Of course, then we have the LWD. All hail to the rise of little white dress! Our summer days are spent almost exclusively in breezy lighter fabrics – and lots and lots of white! We used to wait anxiously to throw our Summer and make the most of all our favourite pieces before September. However, I am a firm believer that the LWD can be worn all year round and can almost seem doubly chic layered up with the right pieces.If you've ever doubted your LWD's autumn or winter potential not to worry,Dubai's winters are practically equivalent to English summers anyways. The LWD is another of the perfect staple to any girls' closet. The greatest thing about white is that it looks good on everyone and a simple LWD is versatile beyond belief.


Lots of Love,
Hannah
xx



Friday 7 December 2012

My Top 10: Victoria's Secret Fashion show 2012




A few days ago, The annuel glitziest fashion show was revealed to a star studded world. It was spectacular! All the outifts were totally over the top and sparkly to the max. Obviously, it was the highlight of the year to all the models involved including Cara Delivigne and Barbara Palvin for the first time in history! This year the show was based on months and seasons. From christmas, new years, blossoming spring and then of course there was the circus section which leaves me confused...Anyways,here are my definate top 10 pieces that stood out to me whilst watching the show. My favourite first!



My absolute favourite outfit from the show! This was a clear winner for me... Love this on Barbara Palvin, and the candy cane wings are bliss.


This is perfection. Her cape is littered with the most incredible swarovski crystals ever...ohmygodness.

I love this green and sparkly piece and Miranda looks very tinkbell-esque which of course, is an added bonus.


Apart from the gorgeous bod...and the stunning swarovski crystals...am loving the shoes haha :')


Alessandro Ambrosio sporting the 2.5 million dollar bra!


 Doutzen Kreos is a dutch gem - literally.


Adriana Lima just 8 weeks after giving birth to her second child! Super human recovery.


Beautiful flowery wings - Candice Swanepoel


Erin Heatherton - The Happy New Year suprise!

Cara Delevigne modelling in the 'Pink' section for the first time ever







Monday 3 December 2012

Starry eyed: Glitzy Lemon cookies!

This post is a bit random but I found this little gem of a recipe a few days ago at www.Laurenconrad.com . Being a huge anything-lemon junkie, I am in heaven! - The glitzy factor simply sold the deal. I think these cookies are super cute and yummy as well, perfect for Christmas!

Here's the recipe:

Makes 40 cookies
Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Salt
  • 1 stick plus 2 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
  • ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 3 lemons, zested and juiced (1/3 cup juice)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup whole milk
  • 2 ¾ cups confectioners' sugar
  • Start-shaped edible glitter or coarse sanding sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 325-degrees. Whisk together flour and ¼ teaspoon salt in a small bowl.
  2. Beat butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest with a mixer on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 10 minutes.
  3. Beat in eggs. Reduce speed to low, and gradually beat in flour mixture.
  4. Slowly add milk, and beat on medium speed for 5 minutes.
  5. Transfer dough to a pastry bag fitted with a ½- inch plain round trip.
  6. Pipe 1 ½- inch rounds onto parchment-lined baking sheets.
  7. Bake until bottoms are pale gold, 16 to 18 minutes.
  8. Let cool completely on sheets set on wire racks.
  9. Whisk together confectionsers' sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
  10. Brush glaze onto cookies, and sprinkle with edible glitter.
Note: Cookies can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.