MY LONDON, MY MUSIC, MY STYLE - WHERE I SEEK INSPIRATION

Lately, I've been reflecting a lot on my past dalliances with personal style. I've been thinking about what inspired my choices then and what inspires me now, and have realised that whilst my style has evolved many a time, my core influences have remained the same. From the city that I will always refer to as home, to some of my favourite musicians and well-loved style icons, it is an amalgamation of factors that inspire what I wear and I simply cannot narrow where I seek inspiration to one thing.

LONDON

London is a city like no other and is in my opinion, the best city on earth. A bold statement to make I know, but it is a place that offers striking architecture, a rich history and a highly creative and ambitious vibe like nowhere else that I have visited. It is also where I am genuinely my happiest self.

It is the first place that I ever called home and whilst I may not live in the city anymore, it will always be home to me. It is the city in which I work and earn a living and the one place you can almost guarantee you'll find me on the weekends. 

There is something very special about my city. A city that always has something interesting going on and one that is multi-cultural and extremely diverse, I never feel alone when I'm there and it makes me happy to see many different faces from various places all enjoying the beauty of it. The culture in London is unlike anywhere that I've experienced and one that has shaped me as a person and really inspires my style.

As a young teen, I would seize the opportunity of weekends in London as a chance to spend my time in and around Camden. Browsing the many alternative and vintage shops that Camden Market had (and still has) to offer, my personal style quickly became a mix of brightly coloured tights and accessories combined with oversized granny jumpers, denim shorts and military style boots. I think it's pretty obvious that I couldn't decide if I wanted to be Hayley Williams, Kate Nash or Alexa Chung (my absolute queens during that time), but I can confidently say that it was the surroundings of Camden that played a huge part in my formation of personal style back then. Whilst admittedly outlandish, my clothing choices didn't make me stand out when I would spend time there, everybody around me would wear equally (if not more) loud, mismatched outfits and this made me feel comfortable and confident. For that period of time, Camden was my style haven. 

Naturally, I outgrew that scene and discovered even more beautiful areas of London - all of which have a played a part in my current personal style. From the tailored styles of Notting Hill to the laidback, minimalist trends of Shoreditch and Bethnal Green, London is definitely where I seek the majority of my style inspiration.

MUSIC

From some of my favourite bands such as Arctic Monkeys, Foals and Haim to my ultimate leading women and men Florence Welch, Jessie Ware, Morrissey and Josh Tillman - music has always played a big part in influencing my style. 

It's a difficult one to explain without sounding like an obnoxious millennial hipster, but I find that the music I love tends to exude a specific positive vibe that makes me feel self-assured in what I decide to wear. I don't have to fuss about making a big song and dance about my outfits (pun most certainly NOT intended), I can wear even the most basic pieces yet confidently choose items that seamlessly pull it all together - quite like in the same way as my favourite musicians do. 

Not only do some of my well-loved artists create the best music, but their sartorial ways are also very inspiring. 

The denim jackets, smart blazers, well-kept boots, slightly oversized and floaty silhouettes of the musicians I've named above, are effortless and timeless - exactly the way I want my personal style to be and remain.

 STYLE ICONS

As a fond lover of classic and uncomplicated style, I will happily admit that I have a list of beloved icons - the ones that you will often find me searching for on Pinterest, scrolling in awe through their outfits and gathering ideas on how to incorporate their looks into my own.

- Francoise Hardy

- Charlotte Gainsbourg

- Jane Birkin

- Dorothy Dandridge

- Donyale Luna

Personal style is just that, personal. However, it doesn't mean that we can't admit that we derive inspiration from other people, places and things - I for one love being able to do so. 

LF

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Photography by Alisha Dandy

OUR SELFISH YEARS AND THE OBSESSION WITH WANTING EVERYTHING NOW

Ah, our twenties. The best years of our life they say, your 'selfish years'. Although as time flies by, I'm finding myself questioning my level of selfishness. Am I taking full advantage of it? Can I be more selfish? Can I be working harder than I already am? Should I be making the effort to go out more, having weekly brunches and after work cocktails with friends? Should I be spending more time with family?
All these questions play on mind on a daily basis and are the premise of the inner battle I face. The battle being, doing all that I can and more to achieve my goals (no matter the sacrifices) versus living my youth to its full extent.

This fear of mine isn't baseless, I always set myself high goals and often push myself physically and mentally to achieve them. However, this hasn't gone unnoticed and I am constantly told to slow down and to well, actually live life. Whilst I understand the concern, I worry about reaching my mid-thirties and looking back on my twenties with deep regret that I didn't work hard enough, so I keep going. But as life progresses, I'm also starting to worry that I'll reach a point in life where I'll look back on my twenties with great sadness that I didn't experience all that I should have.

I'm 24 and very rigid by nature, so naturally I have very rigid plans, I have planned to accomplish key milestones by specific ages - so whilst my peers are maxing out the carefree existence of their twenties, I'm sat here juggling far too many projects and only exhausting myself more and more each day. I think that is the problem with rigid plans and not loosening up with life, you become unrealistic and want everything to happen now... right now.  

Therein lies the problem and I know that I'm not alone on this one. We are part of a generation that has become accustomed to things being instant. Need a taxi? Get one instantly using an app. In a rush at the supermarket? Use the self-checkout. All these little aspects of life give the false identity of easiness. I see my peers saving and becoming homeowners, others travelling the world and then there are those that are quickly climbing the corporate ladder - that's enough in itself to make me want to push myself to my absolute limit in order to attain the same achievements now. It doesn't exactly make me happy (comparison is the thief of joy after all) and I tend to forget all the positive things that I've personally done or down-play them when they are relayed to me. This is why it's difficult to fulfil the selfish years because I am too busy trying to force the future into now, so I'm not living in the moment.

Lately, I have come to the realisation that I am in a place in life where I am old enough to want it all, but too young to have it all, and it's ok. Accepting this is making me slowly embrace the rest of my selfish years and the reckless abandon that comes with it. I am recognising that it doesn't it have to be one or the other - I can have my fun, enjoy life yet still work hard and keep my ambitions.

There we have it - it's great to be young and ambitious, but to want it all now can be damaging. It can cost you relationships, friendships and your health. It's ok to take advantage of our twenties, to make mistakes and revel. This is the one time in life where being selfish is encouraged, nobody wants to look back and have no fond memories to reminisce on. I certainly don't, so here's hoping that I get the balance right.

LF

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Photography by Yossy.

A GUIDE TO BUDAPEST

I'll admit that Budapest wasn't at the top of my travel list, mainly because I didn't know much about the city. However, after visiting a few months back, I realise that it is an amazing destination and one that should feature on everyone's list! From its stunning architecture, deep history, good food and a myriad of activities on offer - Budapest really is a traveller's dream. Oh, and did I mention how affordable it is?! 

It is often regarded as the cheapest European city destination and believe you me, your money definitely goes a long way here. 

WHERE TO GO

Great Market Hall (Central Market Hall)

Great Market Hall (Central Market Hall), Vámház krt. 1-3

Great Market Hall, or Central Market Hall as it is sometimes known, is based on the Pest side of the city. As with most of the buildings in Budapest, its architecture is absolutely gorgeous (so even if you don't plan on buying anything, I'd suggest going just to see the overall beauty of the building). However, if you are feeling a bit spendy then you'll find yourself completely spoilt for choice as the indoor market boasts an array of fruit, vegetables, baked goods, deli food and multiple souvenir stalls. 

THE LANDMARKS

Fisherman's Bastion

Fisherman's Bastion, Szentháromság tér

Fisherman's Bastion offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its Disney-esque terraces. You can buy a ticket on the day which not only enables you to gain access to the terrace, but also gives you entry to Matthias Church (another must-see landmark). 

Both locations happen to be in the same area as Buda Castle which again provides great views and can be reached by the infamous Buda Castle Funicular.

No trip to Budpest is complete without a tour of the Danube. It is Europe's second longest river and runs right through the city, dividing the Buda and Pest sides. There are numerous companies offering day and night tours, as well as lunch and dinner cruises, so whichever company you decide upon depends solely on what sort of experience you are after. 

WHERE TO EAT

Kiosk Budapest

Kiosk Budapest, Március 15. tér 4

For the tastiest club sandwiches and the best mojitos that you will ever have, Kiosk Budapest is the place to be! Located close to the banks of the river Danube, it is a stylish restaurant by day and a popular bar during the evenings. The menu is small but very reasonably priced and the accommodating staff are always on hand should you need any help.

Madal Cafe

Madal Cafe, Alkotmány u. 4

Madal Cafe has three branches around the city and its zen atmosphere is based on the peace philosophies of Sri Chinmoy. I won't lie, I don't know much about Sri, but I do know that Madal makes the best coffees and cheesecakes around. If you're a healthy juice lover, then you'll have no trouble in that department as they have a great selection of pressed juices and vegan snacks.

Head to Seasons Bistro if you're after a beautiful dinner setting, complete with a live pianist. Seasons is slightly more expensive than some of the other restaurants on the Buda side of the city, but it is completely worth it - the food is well done, flavoursome and well presented. Do note that it's a popular location so I suggest booking a table in advance in order to avoid disappointment.

When it comes to bars and club, Budapest is renowned for its ruin pubs such as Szimpla Kert . I personally did not enjoy Szimpla as much as I thought would - many people recommended it to me, but I found it far too busy and definitely a tourist trap. However, just a few doors down you'll find the Illegal Pub & Club, don't be put off by the name, it's a lovely little local pub with the friendliest staff. I'm not sure if my boyfriend and I went on a particularly quiet night, but it was definitely a much more chilled atmosphere when compared to Szimpla and the prices were a lot cheaper too.

 GETTING AROUND

Tram

Budapest has a fantastic public transport system including a very popular tram system, making it incredibly easy to get around the city. You could also walk around the city if you're staying there longer than a few days. However, if you find that you are unable to shake off that Uber addiction, download Taxify - it is the equivalent used in Budapest due to Uber being banned over there (oops)! The great thing about Taxify is that you can pay with cash, so there's no need to start adding your card to the app if you don't want to.

Budapest is a surprisngly great city and I now see why it is referred to as the 'Paris of the East.' If it's not on your list of European destinations, it definitely should be now.

LF

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SUNDAY STORIES No.1

Sundays, the day of 'rest' and also the day that fills many of us with dread as it heralds the start of a new work week and let's face it, nobody actually wants to get up early on Monday morning bracing themselves for another week of hellish commuting.

I'm not sure about you but when Sunday morning rolls around, I often myself laying in bed with a cup of green tea, musing over new YouTube videos and catching up on posts from some of my favourite bloggers. I find it to be a nice way to ease myself into the day and being inspired by pretty darn good content to get me through the upcoming week.

With this in mind and with my promise to regularly upload on Sundays, I have decided to create a series entitled 'Sunday Stories.' It will be a way for me to share with you all the things that I've loved, lusted over and sometimes, disliked (because you can't always love everything) over the week. I'm hoping that my new series will provide you with some inspiration in the same way that I find it through other creative content, as well as just being something for you to enjoy reading whenever and wherever you fancy it.

THIS WEEK...

L-R; Haim, Laura Ellen Wright, Laura Stafford-Smith, Fashion Foie Gras & Lucinda Chambers.

THE ALBUM

I have something to tell you (pun most definitely intended), everyone's favourite sister act with a penchant for great riffs, awesome snares and killer style, are back with a new album and boy oh boy, it has definitely been worth the wait! Haim released 'Something To Tell You' on Friday and it is every bit as amazing as I anticipated. It's so good in fact, it has left me longing to be the adopted fourth Haim sister - not entirely sure how that'll work, but there's nothing wrong with a bit of wishful thinking. 

If you want to listen to music that will make you dance as though you're in an 80s flick - Molly Ringwald dreams anybody?! - you can listen to the album here.

STAND-OUT SINGLE: Nothing's Wrong.

THE VLOGS

My favourite vlogs this week come by way of two lovely ladies from Norwich - both of whom are named Laura (yes, this isn't lost on me either). When it comes to YouTube I've found that I'm not as interested in the platform as I once was and it has dawned on me that maybe it is because I need to subscribe to new channels instead of watching the same vloggers over and over again. That is why I love what both Laura's do with their channels - I seriously feel as though I'm having a casual conversation with friends when watching their vlogs and that to me is so important when watching YouTube videos, I love it when there is a sense of relatability and you the distance between viewer and content creator isn't glaringly obvious. 

This week both girls have been giving me major #housegoals (I'm aware that #goals isn't really a thing anymore, but roll with me on this one):

Laura W and her hubby recently became home-owners and moved into their very beautiful first home together, I've been following their journey on Instagram so I really enjoyed watching their moving vlog and seeing the end result. 

Laura S can usually be found making changes to her home and I love every interior choice that she makes - her office makeover in this week's vlog has got me looking forward to the day that I can have my own office and make all my interior dreams come true.

THE INSTAGRAM

I first started blogging way back in sixth form college rather sporadically mind, but one of my biggest influences back then and still to this day is the wonderful Emily Johnston from Fashion Foie Gras. Emiy's blog is great but I've found myself loving her Instagram profile more and more lately - I find the vibrant colours, stunning destinations and hoardes of gorgeous buildings so dreamy. Emily is the kind of girl you'd go for afternoon tea with and who wouldn't mind you getting all the shots for the 'gram that you need.

THE READ

I'm sure you will have all read the interview of the moment with Lucinda Chambers- ex Vogue Fashion Director. A no holds barred insight into the fashion industry, it is a refreshing piece on what to expect and what is to be expected in that scene. The interview highlights that as successful and as inspiring as Lucinda is, she still faces the same doubts and fear of failure as you and I - it's comforting to know that you're not alone in that sense. I can't recommend this read enough.

LF

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The Flour Pot Bakery - Brighton

I love a good bakery and I also have a well-known obsession with stunning interiors, so when I stumbled upon The Flour Pot Bakery on a recent trip to Brighton, I didn't waste any time in walking in. With exposed copper piping, filament bulbs and a beautiful marble counter - The Flour Pot has the interior of dreams! Oh and the delicious fresh cakes, loaves and great range of drinks will leave you wanting more (I definitely wanted another slice of their lemon and poppyseed loaf). 

The staff are also really welcoming which is big must-have for me when visiting any eatery.

Whether you're looking for somewhere to recoup after a busy day of wandering around and taking in the bustling atmosphere of North Laine or you just fancy picking up some tasty treats - then this place is the perfect mix of good vibes and good food. With three other Brighton locations and one in Hove, you really have no excuse to miss out on this gem should you find yourself in the area.

Location: 40 Sydney Street, Brighton BN1 4EP

LF

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CHANGE

Change, it happens and we all experience it but it doesn't necessarily mean that we can all adapt to it in the same way. I'll be the first one to admit that whilst I crave and embrace change, it usually does take me a while to fully adapt to it.

As the years have gone by, however, I have realised that in order for certain things to happen and for goals to be achieved, it's imperative to go through a season of change whether you feel completely comfortable with it or not. That is why I've decided to switch things here on my blog.

The eagle-eyed of you will have noticed that I now have a new layout - this is something that I have wanted to do for quite some time as I felt that if I'm to take my blog in a new direction then the design has to reflect this. It is a lot more interactive than my previous design and that's exactly what I want 'Lola Faith' to be as a site, interactive. I want to build a platform where posts are easier to follow and one in which you as a reader, can get a clearer glimpse into what I get up to - whether that's being able to view my current location, see my latest Pinterest pins or even being able to shop my monthly favourites. 

In keeping with the subject of change, I am also going to be trialling a new upload schedule - that way you can visit the blog on Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings knowing that a new post awaits.

So there you have it, things are going to be a little different around here. The reason for this change? 

I hear you ask.

The truth is, I hadn't been happy with my blog for a very long time. I would refer to myself as a 'blogger' without actually believing that I was one, I would constantly try to rebrand in order to find my place within the community, losing my way each time, I would delete old posts and I stopped caring about the one main passion that I've had for as long as I can remember and that is being creative, expressing myself through creating my own content. Then it hit me - I could either continue to be miserable about the rut that I found myself wallowing in or I could take the time to pick myself up, make a plan and the necessary changes to get myself and this blog back on track.

This is a work in progress, but I hope that you join me on this journey and embrace my content in the way that I'd love you to. Like I mentioned at the beginning of this post, it is important for change to occur in order to realise and achieve goals.

LF

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Photography by Joe Galvin.