Be Right Back

It's always dangerous to neglect a fledgling project, as it's hard to get back on track once you start to slack (I'm going to have to take it easy on the cheesy rhyme before I get lynched)!

Yet I might be able to ease my 'lack of blogging guilt', what with the past few days of my week consisting of back-to-college preparations, one too many end-of-holiday nights out (with resulting hangovers) and last minute packing for an upcoming ski trip to France.


So I thought I'd pop in, before I jet off, with a picture of Ai Tominaga (one of my favorite models) in a stunning creation from Elie Saab AW07 Couture, as I'm anticipating his upcoming SS08 Couture show and the many fantasies that will come of it.

Image used courtesy of Style.

Currently listening to 'Moving To New York' by The Wombats.

Wonderfully Waldorf

Probably the most blogged about character of the moment (after the Frankenstein that is Perez Hilton era Britney), Gossip Girl's Blair Waldorf is the saving grace of television teen drama.

Blair's wardrobe choices never disappoint. With a closet full of Balenciaga blazers, Marc by Marc Jacob's minidresses, Lanvin ballet flats and Valentino gowns, how could they?

Armored in her preferred choice of preppy yet ladylike chic, she is usually seen to incorporate mismatched pinstripes and plaids, patterned tights and pretty headbands into her daily outfits.

The subtle niceties of her style don't always transcend into her persona. Blair is renowned for her sinister streak and this adds to the mystique of her character. Who doesn't love a mean girl? Especially one whose personal motto is "True friends stab you in the front."

Thanks to the guilty pleasure that is Gossip Girl, when it comes to making an effort in the morning and shopping for new treats, I'm left asking myself "What would Blair wear?"

Images used can be found on the ever reliable Fashion Spot.

Currently listening to 'Gigantic' by The Pixies.

Plastic Fantastic

Due to grey skies, sporadic downpours and all other miseries associated with bleak January weather, I've started to dream of Summer days already. I blame the current lack of sunshine for my sudden and strange craving of fun eye wear.


The above tortoise shell rectangular aviators from Screaming Mimi's remind me of an oversized pair of sunglasses donned by Whitney during the first episode of season 3 of The Hills, when she was having lunch with Lauren outside of Milk. (If anyone knows anything about said unidentified glasses, I'd be forever grateful for a tip off because I've been searching for them ever since to no avail).


These Lolita-esque frames need no explanation. They're yet another Topshop gem and beyond perfection.


I lost my pink plastic aviators at a Justice concert before Christmas, so I'm pretty sure I'm going to have to pick up Kanye's shutter glasses at Girl Props before my next rave.

On a similar note, currently listening to 'Phantom' by Justice.

Currently Coveting

I've been putting off the idea of investing in a leather jacket for a long time now, but I might have just come across a certain piece of outerwear that defies resistance.



Mike and Chris are a husband and wife design duo based in LA, who have taken their laid back yet chic aesthetic and used it to transmute simple wardrobe basics into fashion forward staples.

The above Bryant Lambskin Zip Up Hoodie from their Holiday 07 collection is irresistible. I want, but the €600 price tag means I wish.

Currently listening to 'Luno' by Bloc Party.

Perfect Scents

A person's choice of fragrance can usually allow an insight into their sense of self. Strong and overpowering? Light and lingering? Sweet or mysterious? The power of perfume is phenomenal, therefore many people search for a signature scent.


My all time favorite fragrance, Silver Mountain Water by Creed, features citrus notes, tea, blackcurrant, musk and ambergris. The unusual combination of aromas, combined with the classic and luxurious packaging, allow a daily treat in the form of this opulent perfume .

No other perfume has caught my attention like Silver Mountain Water and I more than likely will be using it for many years to come. Inspired by crisp mountain air and pure alpine streams, this fresh yet intoxicating fragrance never fails to leave a lasting impression.

Some other beguiling scents worth trying out include Penhaligon's mythic Endymion, Stella McCartney's classic Stella and Diesel's suprisingly compelling Fuel For Life.

Currently listening to 'Ceremony' by New Order.

Luxe Living

I've always had a bit of a fixation with wallpaper, more than likely due to the fact that growing up I was told that it was an old fashioned and impractical form of embellishment. My parents views on the decorative material clearly went in one ear and out the other because if I had my way, I'd turn every room into a canvas for different colors, textures and patterns.


Most of the colors, textures and patterns would most certainly be those of Timorous Beasties, purveyors of surreal and provocative wallpapers and fabrics. Their style has been described as "William Morris on acid" and features contemporary and uncompromising takes on antique wallpaper motifs.


Timorous Beasties was founded in Glasgow in 1990 by Alistair McAuley and Paul Simmons. As well as wallpaper, they produce special commissions and projects which include graphic interpretations of images of flora, fauna and controversial scenes. Most notable of which is their infamous 'Glasgow Toile' collection, an 19th Century Toile de Jouy style portrayal of the homeless, crack addicts and prostitutes of Glasgow depicted against a forbidding backdrop of run-down tower blocks.


With names such as 'Devil Damask' and 'Oriental Orchid' and prints featuring reptiles and game in neon colors, their eclectic and unique wallpaper designs aren't for the faint of heart.

Currently listening to 'The Scale' by Interpol.

Dark Desires

Seeing as I tend to prefer more delicate and feminine styles of dressing, I love contrasting outfit choices with Gothic and vintage pieces of jewelery.

Not so long ago I came across Black Sheep & Prodigal Sons, a dramatic and clandestine collection of handcrafted objects by the mysterious designer Derrick R. Cruz. Each piece is packaged in an old box carved like a book, but mythical name and narrative presentation aside, his "Bitter Sweet" collection (as Cruz himself described it) is to die for.


I don't know what use I would make of such an accessory, but practicalities aside, I'm obsessing over the 'Old Soul Stickpin' pictured above.

Another dark designer of note is Philip Crangi. Baroque ironwork and Medieval armor are just two of the influencing factors in his timeless, understated jewelery. His style is unique, yet traditional and often features icons drawn from equestrian and nautical themes.



I first spotted the above 'Heart Lock Pendant' on the July 2006 cover of British Vogue, featuring Gemma Ward, and fell for it instantly.

Currently listening to 'Reckoner' by Radiohead... song of the moment.

Stange and Beautiful

I picked up the February issue of British Vogue today and fell in love with the Topshop SS08 campaign featuring Iekeliene Stange.



Loving the mismatched floral print of the outfit to the left. Something about the reflection of the palm trees in the patio door just intensified my January blues. I pretty much need to go on a tropical holiday.

Currently listening to 'Hitten' by Those Dancing Days.

What Lies Beneath

The weather in Dublin is pretty dreadful at the moment and is leaving very little to the imagination in relation to wardrobe options. I'm not one for quirky choices when it comes to umbrellas, rubber boots and waterproof jackets, so instead of fantasizing about polka dot wellies or neon windbreakers, I've turned my attention to browsing the new season offerings of undergarments.


Agent Provocateur is without a doubt at the top of every fashionista's list when it comes to new additions for the lingerie drawer and the 'Gangster' bra (cute name) above in red satin is certainly at the top of mine.


Princesse Tam Tam is a charming French label and by far my favorite lingerie brand. Featuring pleated frills, delicate lace and pretty designs, the styles are playful with a demure twist. The above 'Cocotte' collection is just fabulous.


When it comes to a quick fashion fix, Topshop never fails to deliver in any department. The above 'Eyelash Lace Mini' panties are classically sexy, with the unexpected detail of the royal blue satin updating the style. At €8 the price is a nice surprise too.

Currently listening to 'Burn Girl Prom Queen' by Mogwai.

Currently Coveting

When obsessing over accessories, I don't generally stray far from my desire for the usual classics. These would include the definitive Chanel 2.55, Hermès Cape Cod and pair of Christian Louboutins, to name but a few.

From time to time I do get distracted and my obsession du jour currently rests on the Saffiano patent shoulder bag by Pauric Sweeney. The olive green shade with contrasting brown leather straps is not a combination I would normally find myself falling for, but the overall effect is fabulous.


A creator with an eye for sleek structure and classic shapes, Sweeney favors unusual finishes such as iridescent patent or cracked metallics and shimmering leathers. The designer has described these contrasting look as "Electric-Eclectic".

His method of updating classic shapes such as doctor's bags and structured totes with unusual colors and textures has proven to be popular and his creations have often been spotted in the clutches of the likes of Madonna, Kate Winslet and Lindsay Lohan.

Currently listening to 'The Water' by Feist.

J'adore Doré

During one of my recent online ramblings, I came across the popular and established French blog by the very talented Garance Doré.


The blog includes her playful, airy illustrations like the ones featured here, images of eclectic street style that happened to catch her eye and wonderful articles which gave me the incentive to brush up on my dusty Francais.


Loving the detail of the Balenciaga AW07 ethnic scarf above, one of my most wished for accessories of all time.


This is one of the prettiest illustrations I have come across online. The theme is something I hold quite close to my heart, seeing as I couldn't possibly live without my mascara.

Currently listening to 'Take You On A Cruise' by Interpol... my all time favorite.

Independent Icons

After spending a lazy Sunday afternoon flipping through some American fashion bibles that my parents picked up for me on their trip to Las Vegas, one article I found specifically enjoyable was 'The Independents: 10 Best Dressed Women Of The Year' feature in the January issue of Vogue. (Follow the link for behind the scenes footage of the making of 'The Independents').

The ever popular Kate Bosworth and Agyness Deyn surely made the cut, but out of the stylish ladies featured, my personal favorites were Kathryn Neale (the Vogue Contributing Editor with a penchant for Francisco Costa for Calvin Klein), Georgina Chapman (Marchesa Designer extraordinaire) and the previously unknown to me Interior Designer Kelly Wearstler. I adore each of their individual and experimental style.

'The Independents' led me to wonder which modern day style mavens catch my eye and embody my ideal fashion personality? First icon to spring to mind was of course the innovative queen of contemporary, Ashley Olsen.


I chose this particular picture from the vast online gallery of her eclectic style for the presence of her vintage Fendi tote, which she found in the Parisian boutique Scarlett and of which I am obsessed! Its up there on my list of 'most coveted Olsen possessions' alongside her gold Men's Rolex and vintage Hermès Constance Handbag.

Next up is the California cool of 'The OC' alumnus, Rachel Bilson. Until recently I blindly overlooked her understated flair, favoring her much overrated co-star Mischa Barton in the wardrobe department. Needless to say, Barton got bland.


Bilson stands out in that she looks fabulous ALL of the time. I found it hard to pick just one look of hers of which I admired, as she looks put together running errands, just as much as she does working the red carpet. I love every factor of the above ensemble, black and cream being a much favored color combo of mine.

Last but not least is a fresh face and newcomer to the scene, British TV personality Alexa Chung.


Her cheeky, indie style is usually portrayed through her love for slogan tees and quirky accessories, yet she possesses that chameleon like quality which makes her more than capable of appearing pretty and polished on the red carpet. Certainly one to watch.

The above featured luminaries make regular appearances on the eminent WhoWhatWearDaily and I sourced all images used through The Fashion Spot.

Currently listening to 'Jealous Little Thing' by Aslan.

Love Of The Sidelines

Some of my favorite notable designers include 3.1 Phillip Lim, Alber Elbaz for Lanvin, Alberta Ferretti, Alexander Wang, Balenciaga, Chanel, Christian Lacroix, Derek Lam, Elie Saab, Giambattista Valli, Miu Miu, Olivier Theyskens for Rochas and Viktor & Rolf.

Whereas I can often be found to covet the creations of the above style-givers, I find myself lusting after Marc by Marc Jacobs, Sonia By Sonia Rykiel, See By Chloé and Paul & Joe Sister more so than each of their respective main clothing lines.


Above is a Marc by Marc Jacobs black double-breasted wool felt coat from AW07. I have it in grey (you can just about make it out in my profile picture) and I adore the bracelet sleeves and oversized lapel. I love wearing it with a little dress and pumps, my favorite way of looking pretty and polished. The grey version has a scarlet pink lining which adds a touch of quirkiness to this practical investment.

Some other diffusion line gems that I came across include this cream cable knit bow front sweater from Sonia By Sonia Rykiel


and beige oversized appliqué jersey tee from See By Chloé below. Each is best worn with skinny jeans and sturdy boots, to play down the girly factor of these ultra pretty pieces.


Perhaps it is the fact that the diffusion line is somewhat more contemporary and casual than it's older sibling, or that it is usually aimed at a more youthful audience. Whilst the style and price of the aforementioned labels are wholly attractive, the quality and aesthetic of the main line is always retained.

All three items pictured above can currently be found on Sale at Net-A-Porter.

Currently listening to '$20' by M.I.A.

Hopeless Romanticism

I find nothing more enjoyable than discovering inspirational images in everyday life. Some of my favorite come from old photographs, movie stills, my preferred online style blogs and websites and of course, fashion magazines. I could sit for hours browsing through my four year collection of British Vogue, looking at my favorite editorials and cutting out anything of interest to stick up on my bedroom wall. Everyday activities aren't so tedious when surrounded by aesthetically pleasing artifacts.


One of my all time favorite books and movies are those of 'The Virgin Suicides'. Written by Jeffrey Eugenides and immortalized on screen by Sophia Coppola, it is in turn both bleak and desolate but also a tender, poetic and honest chronicle of five doomed young lives. The above image, taken by one of my favorite fashion photographers Corinne Day, is striking in its dreamlike and innocent quality, yet the bra dangling from the crucifix above the bed adds a hint of raciness and humor.


I adore the aesthetic of Lula Magazine, a recently developed twice yearly publication, aimed at those who have a love for fashion, art and film and consisting of long dreamlike shoots and editorials. Featuring articles on the like of Kirsten Dunst, Keira Knightley and Zooey Deschanel, it portrays a world you want to fall into and become part of.


Another ethereal piece of work by Corinne Day that I absolutely love is the above picture of Gemma Ward, taken from an editorial shoot of Glastonbury Festival in British Vogue. This raw style of photography is both fascinating and appealing and certainly my favorite factor of many of the fashion publications that I buy and read on a daily basis.

Sources of interest that I currently frequent online, in relation to pictures of style and images that delight and inspire, include The Sartorialist, Amanda De Cadenet and Ilikemystyle, to name but a few.

Currently listening to 'Gettysburg' by Ratatat.

A Book That Lives Up To It's Cover

No book should suffer the wrath of a discerning customer's eye for presentation and packaging, but it's a common occurrence, most especially when looking to buy a gift to impress.



When I received 'The Goddess Guide' by Gisele Scanlon as a Kris Kindle present from one of my friends, I instantly wanted to put it on display. The cover is inspired by an old piece of flock wallpaper and Vogue recently voted it in amongst it's top five beautiful books.

Whereas the hardcover is an attractive black and white textured felt design, I adore the paperback's glossy black and gold motif. The author's own pretty illustrations littered throughout the text make this practical yet sumptuous guide a visual delight.

Gisele herself is from Ireland and this added to my value of the book. It truly is inspirational to find such a fabulous piece of work from a fellow Irish fashionista.

Currently listening to 'Crescendolls' by Daft Punk.

Bonne Année Mon Amie

Despite the inevitable side effects of last night's wonderful New Year's Eve celebrations lingering in my tummy and on my mind, I am still excited about posting the first entry to my new blog.


Welcome to Ophelia Ford. A miscellany of thoughts, images, inspirations and aspirations. A pseudonym, alter ego and way of life. My first love, Fashion, will play host to the anthologies that will accumulate in this space, whilst the other obsessions that I entertain under the themes of Music, Literature, Film and Art will feature too, from time to time.

I hope you will take as much pleasure from viewing this digital scrapbook of my interests and fascinations, as I will constructing it.

Find the above print of Jeannie Patchett taken by Norman Parkinson in 1950 at Vogue Art On Demand.

Currently listening to 'Love Is Not A Competition' by Kaiser Chiefs.