RANDOM | THINGS THAT MADE ME HAPPY TODAY

On a sunny Tuesday when you're battling a deadline nice little things are like the golden ticket in a Wonka bar. So here are my golden tickets for today...

Despite the odd crazy heatwave sprinkled here and there like garish coloured sprinkles you can't help enjoy, we cannot deny it folks... Autumns here and it's getting chilly. This is a perfect time to get those needles and yarn out and, if like me, you find that you've forgotten a few trick over summer then these tutorials by Wool And The Gang are just the ticket (gedit?). These guys make knitting cooler than an ice bath in Alaska and they recently collaborated with Giles. I am also silly excited about the prospect of knitting with jersey. (There are more nice things on my tumblr btw)

                        

The release of the film IDA. Too beautiful and intense. Pawel Pawlikowski is a genius. It's showing as part of the BFI London Film Festival too. 

                        

Also new Michael Pitt film!

Now to add some colour to this rather grey mix, check out Hilary Sloane's stunning photography. Look!

     

     

This outfit at Paris fashion week is everything...

from Because I'm Addicted

                                

UP ON THE ROOF

It's been pointed out to me on more than one occasion that I love a good rooftop. This cannot be denied and I have sampled a fair few. When the sun finally shows up there's nothing better than getting your Dick Van Dyke on and defying gravity. The purpose of this sampling is for my work of course, it's been totally selfless research and the cocktails were just because I needed to get my five a day in somehow...

South 

Going to start locally with two of Peckham's finest...

Bussey Building
There's a rooftop cinema with some amazing views of London. I <3 Bussey, especially in Summer. 

Frank's
Do I really need to tell you how great this bar on top od a multi storey carpark in Peckham is? Really? Ok, it's bloody lovely and opens next Friday. I will be face down in some vegan kimchee (the menu's great!)so come say hi.

Roof Garden - Southbank
It's guaranteed you'll find yourself on the Southbank at some point in the summer, so do check out the roof garden on top of Queen Elizabeth Hall. It's no smoking but has BYOB potential. Oh and it's been designed by the folks behind the Eden Project too so it's very pretty indeed and, of course, the views are outstanding.

East

Netil House 360
The roof of this abandoned college transformed into a thriving creative community is pretty special. They have some cracking BBQ's and you can also make use of the wifi and work from there. Tip: cocktails whilst working are always a good idea.

Around Hoxton and Haggerston you'll find a cluster of pubs with good roof terraces. My favourite's are The Fox  and The Red Lion. If you venture a bit further into De Beauvoir town then The Talbot has a nice expansive terrace/balcony bit.

Coppa
A slightly lesser known spot than other East End sky grazers but an absolute joy once you've found it. If good Italian food in the sun's your bag (whose isn't it?) then Lardo's London Fields based Italian "Rosticceria" will be your summer oasis. Tip: it's on the roof of the hothouse and by be reached from Martello Street.

The Queen of Hoxton
Not my favourite bar to be honest but once the wigwam comes of it's rooftop then the trek up all the stairs for those views and a summery vibe is often worth it despite the sorry drinks selection. The decor is a treat to behold. They also have some screenings and good events, just avoid the oompah loompah coloured crowds on a Saturday night.

Dalston Roof Park
More astro turf and kitschness can be found a little further north. I've talked about this spot before and will continue to because it's a multi-pack of fun. Tucked away on a Dalston roof top above the sirens and irony below you can enjoy a brunch, cocktail or film - that's if you don't mind queuing mind. 

Even though I used to live in North London it isn't really my stomping ground. The Beach at The Roundhouse in Camden is quite nice and The Driver in Kings Cross has a nice, if not slightly bizarre roof terrace. 

West
I rarely go out in West London but The Kensington Roof Gardens are kinda special as long as the sun doesn't reflect off the coloured chinos and blind you.



As per I can't be everwhere so have probs missed some. Please let me know and I will drag myself over there and force down another cocktail. Roof terrace suggestions outside of London are very welcome! 

ART | OFFICE SESSIONS

If you're in London do go and check out HOUSE RULES as part of ‘Office Sessions’ over at Anchorage House, East India Quay in London tomorrow (13 February) at 7pm. Creative director and curator Caitlin Mavroleon’s ambitious project sees a group of artists lead by Nadia Berri that include Tatiana Baskakova, Victoria Burgher, Terry Dynes, Ben Faga, Matthew Hammond, Jeremy Lee, Jayne Lloyd, Kate Mahony, Erifili Missiou, Cristina Pedreira, Daniella Valz-Gen and Rob Brown working collaboratively in the empty office space.

Over 42 days these artists will engage in the development of constantly evolving work for and in response to 20,000 sqf of a deserted office floor. This project utilises the tension that stems from trying to push creative practice in a space that has restrictive house rules and is a refreshing experience because it reminds us of the potential for fun and play that exists even in the most prescribed and unexpected locations. Just go have fun! This is a great opportunity to meet and work with some talented artists and feel very much immersed in a creative project. An added bonus is that you get to ride the slow-motion roller coaster that is the DLR to this event. It’s not every evening you get to experience creativity like this in an empty office building so don’t miss it!

PHOTOGRAPHY | LINA SCHEYNIUS

Brilliant photographer Lina Scheynius' first solo European exhibition is at the innovative Christopher Guy Galery here in London next month.It's a deeply personal and frank exhibition in which she captures her daily life, loved ones and friends. Go, go, go!
 
 

MUSIC | SOME MUSIC

CARAMBA | LATIN FEASTS

When it's cold and damp outside the best plan is to dive into one the huge array of Latin American restaurants, bars, pop-ups, stalls, shops and general eateries that have popped up in abundance across London in the last twelve months or so. 

Growing chains like Barrio, Wahaca, La Bodega Negra are all good bets. For a quick but equally delicious Latin American treat check out some of the amazing street stalls such as Anna Maes (set to be at Feast, Tobacco Dock this weekend), Churros Garcia is a winner for a quick sweet treat and the ever popular and familiar colourful trucks full of tasty that are Luardos. If you're craving a burrito then this website will help too.

Crazy Homies on Westbourne Grove is, in my opinion, the most fun mexican around and the capirinhas at Brazilian restaurant Barraca in Kilburn are to die for. If a good Argentinian steak's your thing then check out Buen Ayre on Broadway Market and for good Colombian food check out Santafreno in Brixton market. The opening of Sushi Samba, the first branch of the American chain, which fuses Brazilian, Peruvian and Japanese, in Heron Tower in July - doing a happy dance as I type this!  

Crazy Homies

In the Seven Sisters Indoor Market in Tottenham you'll find a great range of authentic Latin American stores. South of the river, get your fill of Latin American products at La Bodeguita in Elephant Castle. It also has a restaurant which is a good laugh. The list of places to visit could be endless so best to just get out there and enjoy discovering and sampling some amazing food and drink.I know I will!

My current fave is Peruvian cuisine which is fresh, delicious and involves some intriguing dishes such as cebiche (marinated raw fish) and even guinea pig. The fish is delicious but I have two pet guinea pigs (Pip and Darcy) and am pescetarian so can't vouch for the latter. Ceviche in Soho is the new Peruvian hot spot and definitely worth a trip and up-market Lima is getting some pretty impressive reviews. Last weekend, I wandered over to Essex Road to a more established family run affair, La Tierra Peru. This place is usually packed and for good reason, the food's scrumptious, the atmosphere relaxed and the service is efficient and friendly. This place is winner for a Friday night feast and a couple of cheeky Pisco Sours. The ocopa arequipeña is worth a visit alone - trying saying that after the Pisco's!

A Pisco Sour is my all time favourite cocktail, so here's a recipe. Make them, drink them, dance and pretend it's summer - after a few of these and the heater on full whack you won't know the difference!

Ingredients:

• 3 ounces pisco
• 1 ounce simple syrup
• 1 ounce key lime juice
• 1 egg white
• Angostura bitters (2-3 dashes)
• Ice cubes

Preparation:

1. Mix the pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white in a cocktail shaker.
2. Add ice to fill, and shake vigorously.
3. Strain into an old-fashioned glass, and sprinkle the Angostura bitters on top of the foam.
4. Serve immediately!!!!!!

All recipes and recommendations more than welcome!

Kerry

UPDATE | TRICKY CUSTOMERS

Some big changes afoot here at TC so please be patient and keep your eyes peeled. Tricky Customers is growing and if you'd like to work with us at this exciting time then pls email: trickycustomers@gmail.com.

In the meantime let's quickly take some time to talk about how good men's fashion is at the moment! LCM was brilliantly sharp, brave and inspiring and Milan has thrown up some gems, most notably Vivienne Westwood's choice of models...hello! 


Exciting stuff to come in 2013 and we're looking forward to brave new ventures and working with some interesting people on exciting new projects this year! 

FASHION | BRITISH FASHION AWARDS 2012

Popped over to The British Fashion Awards the other night. It was a parred down pretty causal affair at this London hotel called The Savoy. Champers, goodie bags and trying not to be blinded by the fashion and flash bulbs were on order.

Seriously, it was an amazing night. British fashion's on fire at the moment and these awards were an excellent celebration of the talent coming out of old Blights at the mo.

Rocksanda Ilincic in one of her amazing creations

The back of British Model of the Year Winner Clara Delevigne

Here's the list of winners in full:• Designer of the Year: Stella McCartney• Designer Brand: Stella McCartney• New Establishment: Erdem• Menswear Designer: Kim Jones for Louis Vuitton• Emerging Talent Award - Ready to Wear: JW Anderson• Emerging Talent Award - Accessories: Sophie Hulme• Emerging Talent Award - Menswear: Jonathan Saunders• Accessory Designer: Nicholas Kirkwood• Red Carpet Award: Roksanda Ilincic• Model: Cara Delevingne• Outstanding Achievement in Fashion: Manolo Blahnik CBE• Special Recognition: Harold Tillman CBE• Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator: Louise Wilson OBE• British Style Award: Alexa Chung.

British fashion is on fire right now. There's such a lot of talent in the UK and this glamorous bash really wetted the old appetite to see what marvels are still to come and to appreciate what steps the pioneering British fashion industries taken. Exciting times!

FASHION | MANOLO BLAHNIK

Let's talk about shoes! Any excuse! I was already looking forward to the British Fashion Awards next week and so was pretty pleased to hear that the British Fashion Council have announced that the winner of the Outstanding Achievement Award is non other than shoe king Manolo Blahnik CBE. 

Manolo moved to Paris in 1965 and was encouraged by fashion journalist Diana Vreeland to concentrate on shoes. That was some good advice! By 1971 he was based in London making shoes and a year later Ossie Clark used his collections in one of his eponymous shows. The rest is fashion history as Manolo went on to have a ridiculously impressive career that spans over 40 years and resulted in some of the most covetable shoe designs ever. He's an icon! Congrats Manolo!

A SUNDAY SERVICE

The Sunday Service on Dalston Rooftop The Sunday Service has been a pretty special breakfast pop-up ion the urban sanctuary that's Dalston rooftop. I was dying to go but sadly had to host a mega party in Henley (long story). Fortunately my bezzie was still able to attend and has written Tricky Customers first guest post! Here's what she made of what looks like the ultimate Sunday hanover cure... We arrived at 18 Ashwin street in Dalston, at 12:30 for the the second and later 'Brekkie' session of the day and were very pleased to be issued with our inclusive food and drink vouchers - what more could you ask for on a Sunday?! 

After walking eagerly up the considerable flight of stairs to the top, we opened the door and were met by what can only be described as a haven, tooked away on a rooftop in the middle of Dalston. The rooftop was adorned with green faux-grass (urban meets rural chic) and a mixture of very comfy white single and double mattresses on which people were relaxing, eating, drinking and chatting merrily. There was also an area which resembled a beach front or summer park with mats and cushions. Bliss! With the sun shining through the September clouds we collected our inclusive (in the cost of tickets) food and drinks. The food consisted of a variety of breads and drinks the traditional orange juice and tea or coffee, or an added treat of chocolate milk. I opted for the traditional coffee and orange juice, although I have it on good authority the chocolate milk was delious! The bread was accompanied by a vast array of jams, marmalades, and more chocolate. We managed to eat our weight in jams, as in such sumptous surroundings it was difficult to stop spreading. 

There was also the chance to pay for additional breakfast treats, such as a highly tempting selection of waffles with sweet drizzled toppings and savoury options that included bacon and salmon. The wind picked up shortly after we settled on our mattress, which did make digging into the food a little challenging but this it to be expected on a roof top and just added to pretty unique overall experience. 

As the afternoon continued, the atmosphere, which had been vibrant when we arrived, quietened down, much like when smaller towns get sleepy on a Sunday afternoon. This atmosphere may have been re-invigorated by some background music, as the sounds of the street began to break through the harmony of the roof but it still felt chilled. The smells from the open air kitchen did not abate, with the fragrant waffles wafting over, ensuring my saliva glands were kept working all afternoon. The relaxing continued and after about 2 hours spent on the roof when the chill of September did win and we made our move. Although blankets were on offer to those felt the cold and we left satified by the food and experience.

The Sunday Service was definitely a relaxing and enjoyable afternoon, although it would have benefitted from an injection of some music, to ensure the atmosphere was continued even after the volume of customer decreased. We were also lucky with the weather as it was only the wind, we had to contend with, if it had rained, it would be a different story - but hey, welcome to England. If you’re looking for a country style relaxing Sunday afternoon or you’ve had a heavy night before and want something to do without having to move or think too much, this is the place to be. Hangover heaven was found in Dalston!

The Sunday Service is continuing on the 23 September 2012 to 30 September 2012, more information and tickets are available from: http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/org/2628308266?s=9766392. 

It's a great concept and was definitely agreat way to spend a sleepy Sunday avo.

Review by Clare Simmons ❤
Photographs by Jade Mellor  ❤

ANIMALS | PIGEONS

Right I'm just going to come out and say it...I think that pigeons are quite cool and get a bad rap. I'm in good company too as according to the Pigeon Preservation Site Picasso and Darwin also like pigeons.

I'm no pigeon fancier; I don't own any stuffed pigeons or sit covered in crumbs on Trafalgar Square, it's just that whenever I see a nasty pigeon spike on a roof I feel sorry for our little grey birdy friends and then I read about this;'According to cnnb.com.cn, scientists in Shandong have successfully implanted a microchip and radio receiver in a pigeon's brain, enabling them to instruct the pigeon by remote control to take off, fly in circles and obey other commands' (I really hope this is a hoax!). Pigeons are iconic eating and breathing little winged characters who deserve as much respect as any other creature on this planet (right, done my hippy bit) and it's not fair to dismiss them as vermin.

Some Pigeon's are descendants of veteran war hero pigeon's and their racing, message carrying and homing abilities are awe inspiring. In India there are temples dedicated to worshiping pigeons and they are revered-'Goddess Rati, the Goddess of passion and lust and the consort of Kama, the God of love, is believed to be usually depicted with a pigeon as her vahana'. Here's a pic of a pigeon resting in the 16ft dreadlocks of Hindu sadhu (holyman) Sukhdev Baba Santi at Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, India.

In London pigeons are working hard to fit in: climbing stairs, eating the kind of stuff we eat after too many hours in the pub, using pedestrian crossings to cross the road, riding escalators, taking the underground and (when necessary) even the bus. They want to live with us, not against us. Let's support each other - arm in wing to make London a nicer, less hostile place.

Rentokil(yes, I know!) recently celebrated pigeon's romantic side; 'Pigeons have a complicated courtship sealed with a special pigeon kiss. Pigeons mate for life and are thoroughly modern parents who share parental responsibility, including childcare and foraging for unwanted scraps of food'. See they're actually role models!

Their coocoo is also fast becoming coolcool (sorry), as they're getting a bit of online and media notoriety. Jon Pigeon tweets about being a pigeon; his day to day life, hopes and aspirations...

'Have applied to Jeremy Kyle. Want to be an Emergency Chav Pigeon. Have my lies detected. Punch an auntie. Strop about a bit. Doing the face.'

Fellow Pigeon Tweeter, Brian Pigeon, also shares his life in the capital on his Pigeon Blog. He's one inspiring and busy bird who's currently training for the Pigeon Olympics! According to Brian, June 15th was Pigeon Awareness Day, but why not spare a thought for these fellas all year round. Let them enjoy your crumbs, don't kick or try to run them over. They are tough but constant hate and resentment is bound to grind even the toughest bird down. They try so hard so give them a break. I mean,they even provide cards @ FunkyPigeon.com (have not been paid to advertise this).

Yes they do carry diseases such as these listed on the Pigeon Chat Forum (no I do not spend time on there) but they add character and can be fun to watch. 

Being a small pigeon in a big city must be hard enough without being stigmatized as vermin. Give pigeons a chance folks.

Summer Chic | Jigsaw 2012

Beehives, breton tops, mustachioed cuties and balmy summer evenings spent sporting French 60's chic in London. What's not to love. And I do really do love this spring/summer collection film from Jigsaw. Total summer style inspiration.

LONDON | SUMMER

The sun has finally arrived in London and it's bloody glorious. When the sun shines there's no better place to be in than the city. I LOVE the countryside, but also love the infectious buzz in the city, as everyone hurries outdoors to enjoy some much needed sunshine. Parks fill up with cheerful faces; picnicking and sipping beer, swimming in pools and lakes, throwing frisbees and walking dogs. People sit lazily outside bars and cafes, congregate in beer gardens and every possible outside space is utilised for good times. Cycling over Waterloo bridge in the evening sun, having drinks by the thames, sitting on Primrose Hill gazing at the blue sky backdrop to London's landscape. It doesn't really get any better than this. Here's to the start of Summer!..

          

FASHION | BAMBI & MANSON

Bambi & Manson are a hot new label from Polly O’Connell and boyfriend Jim Cubitt. Their mission statement is “Making the World a Hotter Place…One Girl at a Time” and they're definitely succeeding. 

Bambi & Manson have just launched a dazzling new SS12 collection adding tees, denim jackets and accessories to their already signature range of amazing denim hot pant. Consider your summer wardrobe sorted! 

If you like your denim dip dyed, frayed, studded, sparkled, crucifixed and defyingly original then check out this label now! 

Foodie February

For me February has been all about 2 things - fashion and food. London Fashion week news is coming soon, so in the meantime, let's talk about food or fashion fuel as I like to call it. I LOVE eating out and have quite literally eaten my way around the capital this month so Ithought I would share my experiences of some of London’s abundance of restaurants and Cafes…

(I can’t eat dairy so any dairy recommendations are via friends who of course have exquisite taste)

Meat & Liquor

I was very excited about trying out London’s latest uber hip burger joint because it had received a lot of recommendations and good reviews. Fortunately it lived up to the hype and it was well worth queieng in the snow (no bookings) for these amazing burgers. As if those burgers aren’t enough there’s also onion rings the size of a fist, cider cocktails and a boisterous yet relaxed atmosphere to enjoy. And boy did we enjoy this place!

The Diner, Soho, Shoreditch & Camden

Another day another burger. I have visited4 out of the 5 of these Diners (not in one month!) and although the burgers aren’t quite meat and liquor quality the atmosphere is consistently fun and retro and the sweet potato fries are yummy. The boozy cocktails are also pretty immense!

Wahaca, Soho

This place is always pretty busy and ditto it’s bro in Covent Garden but it’s unsurprising considering the fast service and assortment of tasty Mexican Street food on offer.

Mezza Express, Camden

This place is tucked away on Parkway and is a hidden gem. The décor’s a bit kitsch and the owner is definitely characterful and likes to play pranks but this all adds to the relaxed atmosphere. The menu offers delicious authentic Lebanese fare that includes Homos Kebbeh, Falafel and a huge range of grilled meats. Not one to break the bank either.

Soho Joe

If it’s cheap and tasty pizza you’re after in a relaxed atmosphere with pleasant staff then this place will do the trick. A very chilled place.

Mien Tay, Kingsland Road

Actually regretting not going here sooner as it was a revelation. I personally much prefer Vietnamese food to Chinese and embrace unusual and varied menus so this place was heaven. We feasted on Quail, Goat and Frogs legs (I spent my formative years living in France) and when the bill came we almost fainted. It was SO CHEAP! If we’d brought our own booze it would have been cheaper than eating at home. Any excuse not to cook.

Canteen, Spitalfields

A popular choice for hearty grub on a Sunday. They weren’t taking bookings so the Maitre D’ offered to text when a table became vacant. 15 minutes of strolling around the market later we were sat by a window watching the busy shoppers and sipping a good selection of pale ale and ciders. The food was hearty and very English. Overall it was filling and quite tasty. A good location makes it a fair choice for a long lazy Sunday lunch.

Albion, Shoreditch

Boundary is a bit stuffy but this café is always buzzing and it’s no surprise with a menu full of English classics such as Rabbit Stew, Kedgeree and Crumble. This is also a great choice for (hungover) weekend brekkies as there’s a fine selection to choose from.

Inspiral, Camden

As an ex-vegetarian (8 years) and dairy intolerant this vegetarian café  is  a favourite for its great selection of vegetarian dishes. My particular favourite is their dairy free ice cream which comes in  a bonkers range of flavours. The location on the canal is also buzzy yet picturesque.

Food notes;

• The Palestinian falafel at Mr Falafel in Shepherds Bush is too good
• The Vietnamese coffee at Broadway market is delish
• Gluten, Wheat and Dairy free cakes that are still scrummy at Sugargrain, Borough Market. 

That’s February well and truly consumed. March is going to bring a few trips to recommended restaurants including the Lucky Chip residency at the Sebright Arms, a venture to Brixton Market and up North to Manchester, a ganders at the Soho Feast and some exploration into the world of Pie and Mash.