Reading List #1
By far the greatest thing about the internet is the amount of fresh, exciting content released on an increasingly regular basis. I am constantly discovering new websites, blogs, and social networks full of beautiful, well-written content, so decided to devote an entire series of posts to sharing my favourites. I've attempted to incorporate something along these lines into my Life Lately series in the past, but the subjects truly warrant more than a few lines. And yes, I know that 50% of these recommendations aren't technically "reading material" but I decided this was the best place for them. Think of it as something akin to a syllabus - enjoy (and click those links)!
Website - A Little Opulent
The brainchild of two of my favourite bloggers Rebecca (From Roses) and Jen (Jennypurr) is truly a work of art. In the day and age of Hunger Games-esque internships and never-ending student loans, it is so inspiring to see two young women putting their ideas into practice and making their dreams a reality. A Little Opulent is an online magazine with posts on subjects ranging from style and beauty, to art, design, entertainment, and food. Playlists and recipes feature alongside industry interviews, film reviews, and decor inspiration. All accompanied by Pinterest worthy photographs and illustrations. The site is newly launched but I cannot wait to see what Rebecca, Jen, and their incredibly talented team have to offer.
Book - The Engagements by J. Courtney Sullivan
Calling all fans of Mad Men - if you suffer from withdrawal symptoms from mid-century Madison Avenue in the weekly gaps between episodes, then I have found the perfect antidote for at least one of those weeks. The novel begins in 1947 with the story of Mary Frances Gerety - the copywriter famous for coining the term 'A Diamond Is Forever', and flits between five (seemingly unrelated) storylines, including 1980s Boston, and contemporary Paris. Detailing the lives and loves of the characters involved, the 'missing link' will keep you guessing right until the very end.
Blog - La Petite Primp
Camey is one of the loveliest people I've had the pleasure to meet through blogging, and we share so many loves and interests that I've come to think of her as my San Franciscan equivalent. Her gorgeous and artfully arranged photographs are accompanied by witty, intelligent reviews, her posts are fresh and imaginative, and she always has the scoop on the latest gems to hit the beauty world. Not just your average beauty blogger, give this girl some (Blog)lovin'.
YouTube - Bonjour Luce
A seasoned blogger who has recently made the move to "the 'tube", and follows in the footsteps of YouTube's greats with favourites videos, tags, and makeup routines aplenty. Watching Luce's videos is like sitting down to chat with an old friend who provides a completely frank and honest opinion - no frills! I love that her videos are devoid of any silly intros, outtakes, and effects - it really helps her warm personality and candour to shine through.
Magazine - Porter
I've raved about the newly launched Porter magazine in a previous post, but having just devoured the second issue, couldn't help but include it today. Along the lines of Vogue, and with an emphasis on providing thoughtful and stimulating content for the modern woman, reading Porter is like reading the notes of your crazy clever 'in the know' best friend, with an appropriate dosage of dreamy fashion shoots.
Pinterest - Ana Degenaar
Pinterest chic in its most enviable form. Ana's boards feature images of everything from food and nature to fashion and art, all with the common denominator of retaining that uber cool, clean, Nordic look of the most stylish of pinners.
Instagram - @meganisobel
One of my favourite beauty bloggers, Megan truly has an eye for beauty. Her (P)inspirational pictures are always well lit and imaginatively arranged. Expect everything from OOTD's, to food, beauty products and snapshots of Megan's enviably chic London life.
App - Paprika
Knowing of my love for organisation and my penchant for a 'do it all' app, Danny gifted me Paprika a few weeks ago to save me from the mess that was my Evernote 'Recipes' notebook. Paprika allows you to add recipes from websites and blogs with the click of a button, as well as type in your own, organise them under numerous categories, create stock and shopping lists, and even calculate the ingredients per person if you're cooking for more or less than the amount stated. Available on the Apple App Store for £2.99, you can also get versions for your Mac and iPhone.
I hope you've enjoyed reading this post as much as I have writing it, and enjoy checking out my recommendations. Let me know in the comments below what you like to read/watch/"like"/pin etc - I'm always on the hunt for new finds!
If you're loving my new blog design (as I am!) I'd really really appreciate it if you could nominate That Grace Girl for 'Best Designed Blog' in the Company Style Bloggers Awards!
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