VALENTINE’S DAY 2021

Published on February 15, 2021February 15, 2021 by houseofmaddisonLeave a comment

Valentine’s Day 2021 was a different one! Whether you would have normally celebrated with your SO or treated yourself to a Galentine’s boozy brunch, this year was undoubtably different for everyone. I spent my day gearing up for an extra special trip to the local Costa Coffee drive thru for a 5* Gingerbread latte. Thinking that perhaps a take-away coffee was a bit sad, I decided to fashion a yummy homemade Afternoon Tea. Miniature Victoria sponge cakes and Mumma Jo’s 5* cheese scones were undoubtably the stars of the show.

Despite not being able to go anywhere, this red Zara Love collection was too irresistible not to try. I will let you in to a secret…I wore a cream sweatsuit all of actual Valentine’s with minimal make-up, but shooting these delectable red pieces earlier in last week gave me the minuscule of escapism that I craved.

In years to come, how will you look back on your lockdown Valentine’s Day?!

VALENTINES & GALENTINES GIFTING

Published on February 8, 2021February 8, 2021 by houseofmaddisonLeave a comment

This year more than ever we need to spread the love! While we cannot spend time with those we love the most, this Valentine’s & Galentine’s Day gifts can make all the difference. I’ve put together my favourite gifts from luxury to high-street. You can also find a treasure trove of personalised options on small business run websites such as ‘Not On The High Street’ and Etsy. Roses are a must for 14th Feb; perhaps you could get in touch with your local florist to support the small businesses around who may be struggling, if this service is not available for you see below for a list of online florists. You cannot go wrong with the classics; perfume, flowers, chocolates and jewellery, however niche gifts are thoughtful too…anything from a heart painted plate to a sensual torso candle. All of these items are available online. Love is in the air!

See below for a list of online businesses that offer flower deliveries:

Freddie’s Flowers

Bunches

Bloom & Wild

Haute Florist

Bloom Post

eflorist

Selfridges

M&S

Waitrose

NARNIA AFTERNOON TEA AT THE ASSEMBLY HOUSE, NORWICH

Published on December 20, 2020December 20, 2020 by houseofmaddisonLeave a comment

After the most peculiar year I can’t believe that its Christmas already! With the devastating tier announcements yesterday, my heart breaks for those who cannot be with their family over the festive period. I’m sending all of my love to everyone!

While I was feeling a complete lack of Christmas spirit my Mumma surprised me with the most spectacular Afternoon Tea. I’ve had Afternoon Tea in numerous places in the country and I have to say The Assembly House is nearly impossible to beat. The Assembly House has incredible grounds and a breath-taking interior. It really is a treat to dine there. They have added 2 incredible igloo style seating areas on the grounds for Covid safe dining, I didn’t dine in one this time but in the future will be sure to request it.

The Narnia themed Afternoon Tea was the perfect Christmassy twist. We chose the Assembly House Afternoon Tea Blend, which was delicious and treated ourselves to a Passionfruit Bellini. The highlights for me were the turkey, sage, onion stuffing and cranberry roll, Assembly House sausage roll, the frozen toadstool macaron and the Faun Gingerbread Cupcake. Each flavour ignited a nostalgic Christmas feeling. The finger sandwiches were made on the softest bread and the scones were delectably warm.

I wore Zara cream mom jeans and a Zara cream knit blouse with pussybow detailing. I styled a H&M cream faux-fur cropped jacket, cream Gucci bag, tan Gucci belt and ASOS neutral patent heels with ankle tie. It was truly incredible to dress up and have a small amount of escapism from reality.

See below the Assembly House Narnia Afternoon Tea Menu

DAINTY FINGER SANDWICHES OF:

Free range egg and cress/Smoked salmon, lemon mayonnaise and black pepper/Cream cheese and pickled cucumber/Norfolk baked Ham

SAVOURY

SOFT FINGER ROLL OF ROASTED NORFOLK TURKEY/ASSEMBLY HOUSE SAUSAGE ROLL/THREE-CHEESE TOASTIE

SCONES AND CAKES

CHEESE, COLMAN’S MUSTARD AND CHIVE SCONE

FRUIT SCONE

WHITE WITCH GATEAU OPERA – White Witch cake of coconut and lime, Turkish delight icing

FAUN GINGERBREAD CUPCAKE

FROZEN TOADSTOOL MACARON – blueberry and vanilla filling

SNOWY BLACK FOREST SHOT – with chocolate and cherry

JARDIS’ ICE WAND

‘YOUR NOW IS NOT YOUR FOREVER’ – LOCKDOWN 2.0

Published on November 16, 2020November 16, 2020 by houseofmaddisonLeave a comment

So here we are again, in the midst of a national Lockdown. Loneliness, stress and anxiety are key buzzwords to describe the current zeitgeist. It is incredibly important to remember that ‘YOUR NOW IS NOT YOUR FOREVER’!

It is easy to feel frustrated and like your life is on hold, but with nothing in our power we must take the positives from this year. Take 10 minutes to list down and reflect on your achievements and experiences this year and remember what you’re thankful for. See below for my top 7 achievements and experiences this year.

Visited New York City – a dream of mine since I was a little girl!
Achieved 82/100 in my Final Year Solo Presentation
Graduated with a First-Class-Honours in BA Hons Fashion Marketing from Russell Group University of Southampton
Celebrated my 21^st Birthday with my closest friends and family
I made the Top 10 Best Dressed in the Newmarket July Festival Ladies Day Virtual Style Awards
Landed a paid modelling job
An article I’ve written is being published in a magazine

Staying at home has never looked so glam! While I have nowhere to go, but a lot of staying in to do I’ve put together 3 of my stay-at-home looks. The first look features my One Hundred Stars Gown, I’ve always loved the idea of having a delectable gown to sashay around the house in and while I would ordinarily rock this gown as a duster coat, in Lockdown 2.0 I’m parading around in the beautiful item. The second look is my white organza midi skirt and Zara fluffy crop top and cardigan co-ord, a nod to a ballerina off-guard. Finally, the third look is my interpretation from working at home; a man’s white shirt, and an oversized bow tie.

SASHAY AROUND THE HOUSE

BALLERINA OFF-GUARD

WORKING FROM HOME

SHOP ‘SASHAY AROUND THE HOUSE

ONE HUNDRED STARS – ISIS GREY GOWN

‘SHOP ‘BALLERINA OFF-GUARD

SKIRT – MISS SUGAR

ZARA – CARDIGAN

ZARA – CROP TOP

SHOP ‘WORKING FROM HOME’

NEXT – MAN’S SHIRT

MADDISON’S JULY

Published on July 28, 2020July 28, 2020 by houseofmaddisonLeave a comment

MADDISON’S JULY – MY 21ST BIRTHDAY

This July was a sensational month. Not only did it present my 21^st birthday, I also FINALLY found out my final university result. To say I was thoroughly spoilt is an understatement. Gucci is undoubtedly a respected brand, always in my top 5. I was very kindly gifted a Gucci bag, a Gucci matte red lipstick and a Gucci mascara from my parents, as well as a gorgeous white and navy Tommy Hilfiger set. Overwhelmed with happiness, I wept like a baby as I unboxed the dreamy gifts. The packaging, smell and feel of each item is something else; the true meaning of luxury for me is owning something of your dreams, something you never felt you could be lucky enough to own.

My grandparents presented a breath-taking vintage, delicate Tudor Royal (a sub-brand of Rolex I later discovered) gold watch to me. The tiny watch face combined with the shell strap is beyond charming. As my Ma handed me a tiny gift box I was puzzled, she followed by telling me that my Grandad had gifted her with the watch for her 21^st birthday. I share my birthday with my Grandad who was 80 this year. To be given such a vintage, treasured gift I was speechless, it bought a tear to my eye to be in possession of something so special.

Not only did I receive fabulous Gucci gifts, a vintage treasure and a TV by my brother (SO LUCKY) my close family and friends truly spoilt me with their kindness. I had an intimate gathering with those closest to me. The garden party was a blush pink, bohemian theme with a delectable grazing board. With Covid-19 protection measures in place, I had the most wonderful time. I’m very thankful for everyone in my life.

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GRADUATION – FIRST CLASS HONOURS

At 12:07 on the 23^rd July shaking with anticipation I received the email from University of Southampton with my final grade. My eyes hurriedly scanned the email looking for the final classification. In disbelief I read: The senate of the University of Southampton is awarding you a FIRST-CLASS HONOURS in BA Hons Fashion Marketing. Of course, I cried! The relief and pride that the hard work, sweat and tears that I’d put into every project had paid off was indescribable. Studying a fashion degree is the most rewarding, yet frightening thing. Although there can be correct and incorrect ‘ideas’ the projects that you present are your personal ideology and creations, therefore when marked, the university is marking your personal opinions. Knowing your ideas are credited and accepted by an academic board is extraordinarily fulfilling. I received my final result with my closest friend from the course who also received a First, which was comforting and made the celebrations doubly exciting.

A special, wholehearted personal congratulations from me to any student who is Graduate Class of 2020 for completing exams, dissertations and projects in the midst of Covid-19. I’m so proud of everyone who managed to achieve their potential in such challenging and uncertain times.

MY TOP 3 GIFTED/PURCHASED ITEMS IN JULY

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WHITE LEATHER GUCCI MARMONT BAG

My exquisite white leather GG Marmont small shoulder Gucci bag gifted from my parents. Not only is the colour beyond perfect for my style, the aged gold GG emblem and part aged gold chain strap are stunning details. The bag can also be worn either way; one side presents the iconic Gucci emblem, while the other side has a GG stitched in style for a more relaxed ‘bag’ vibe.

LINK TO PURCHASE GUCCI BAG

ROSE QUARTZ COASTERS

The second item is a beautiful gift from my friend Chloe. She sent pictures of my new brass bed to the designer who crafted, two gorgeous Rose quartz coasters with gold leaf and gold edges which match my room. I love them SO much! @Studio19bychloe is a handmade, small business which uses Cruelty Free & Non-toxic Epoxy. A must for your home décor.

LINK TO PURCHASE PERSONALISED COASTERS

LINK TO @Studio19bychloe INSTAGRAM

BE FEARLESS PLANNER

The third item is this stunning Be Fearless Planner. The minimalist, chic front-page design and coffee-table style caught my eye. The company is family run by a wonderful woman named Laura, who is the sweetest and most encouraging lady. The book is described as a self-empowerment and productivity planner thoughtfully designed to help you be focused, organised and motivated. While I’m actively searching for a job in fashion this piece is impeccable to keep me driven. Pages for monthly, weekly and daily planning, as well as, mindfulness and positivity sections alongside much more; I highly recommend this piece.

LINK TO PURCHASE BE FEARLESS PLANNER

LINK TO BE FEARLESS PLANNER INSTAGRAM

SAINTÉ.CO CANDLES

On my home wish-list is this incredible design by SAINTÉ.CO Their ‘Goddess’ candle is a unique naked style, which comes in a range of colours and some dipped in gold leaf. These handcrafted, candles are so empowering and a striking décor piece. The company also donates ten percent of our total net profit towards helping an orphanage in India every month.

LINK TO PURCHASE SAINTÉ.CO CANDLE

LINK TO SAINTÉ.CO INSTAGRAM

HIGH-STREET WISH-LIST

SHOP THE HIGH-STREET WISH-LIST

MANGO – LEATHER BALLET PUMPS £49.99|MANGO – STRAW TOTE BAG £35.99

H&M – COTTON DRESS £34.99|H&M – GREY CARGO PANTS £39.99|H&M – FLOUNCE TAN DRESS £39.99

TOPSHOP – POLKA DOT DRESS £35.00|TOPSHOP – GREEN TROUSERS £35.00

STRADIVARIUS – POLKA DOT SKIRT £12.99

RIVER ISLAND – PINK TOP £30.00

TOPSHOP – PINK BLAZER £59.99

DESIGNER WISH-LIST

SHOP THE WISH-LIST

GIVENCHY – BLUE DRESS £1055 | GIVENCHY – CAMEL SKIRT £910

GANNI – DOT MINI-DRESS £245 | GANNI – WHITE SHIRT £125 | GANNI – POLKA DOT MIDI DRESS £255

STELLA MCCARTNEY – GREY TROUSERS £480

TED BAKER – SCARF SANDALS £85

PHAEDO – CRINKLE SHIRT £1200

HUISAN ZHANG – WHITE FEATHER DRESS £1695

ALL SAINTS – PINSTRIPE BLAZER £99

CARVELA – TAN MULES £129

ANINE BING – GREY SWEATSHIRT £150

LAVISH ALICE – WHITE BLAZER £75

BY FAR – GREEN BAG £480

IBEN – CREAM TRENCH COAT £390

MEDEA – TAN TOTE £435

SAMSOE & SAMSOE – LEATHER MINI-DRESS £210

CASA RAKI – CREAM FRILL DRESS £385

MARKUS LUPFER – LIPS SWEATSHIRT £225

ROSANTICA – CARD BAG £435

EUGENIA KIM – STRAW HAT £430

MADDISON’S FAVOURITE APP/FILM/SONG OF JULY

PINTEREST – APP

This month for me has been so full-on in the best way. However, it hasn’t left much time for me to read. This month I am recommending my favourite app instead of a book. My favourite app this month is Pinterest; I spend every morning scrolling down the ‘For You’ feed to ignite my creativity and motivation. I regularly post my favourite finds on my Instagram stories to share a glimpse of happiness with my followers. If you’re ever feeling a bit drab or unmotivated just 10 minutes on this app is the best medicine.

DJANGO – FILM

Django Unchained is a KILLER film. The mixture of empowerment contrasted against the reality of the slave-trade leaves you educated and shocked by the Tarantino classic. IMDB plot description: In 1858, a bounty hunter named Schultz seeks out a slave named Django and buys him because he needs him to find some men he is looking for. After finding them, Django wants to find his wife, Broomhilda, who along with him were sold separately by his former owner for trying to escape. Schultz offers to help him if he chooses to stay with him and be his partner. Eventually they learn that she was sold to a plantation in Mississippi. Knowing they can’t just go in and say they want her, they come up with a plan so that the owner will welcome them into his home and they can find a way. YOU MUST WATCH IT.

MAGIC – SONG

Magic by Pilot is a vintage BOP. I heard this song on the credits of a film and I forgot how much I love this tune. An ultimate feel-good song.

VILLANELLE VIBES – SEASON 3 WEDDING TUX

Published on May 11, 2020May 12, 2020 by houseofmaddisonLeave a comment

Who knew getting married could look so chic. Of-course if Villanelle is getting married, it’s going to be in style. Not only did the loveable assassin wear the controversial choice of a suit, but layered a mesh bodysuit and sensual bra underneath, finishing the look off with a Loewe brooch and killer heels…

I thought the look was phenomenal. The perfect look for when you want to blow peoples socks off. The bra is a H&M black and cream lace style, the mesh bodysuit prettylittlething, the black culottes are a Zara classic; the flawless fit and elegant flow, contrast impeccably against the close-fitting bodysuit. A black tux blazer pulls the look together, while the pointed black shoes with bow detailing adds a precious style to the edgy look. To finalise the look, I added statement diamanté branch earrings, accentuated even more by the scraped back ponytail. Slick.