Ophelia Ford

Meisel Pic Monstrosity

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 23:16:00 +0000

Seeing as my last post was full of blab, I thought I'd try balance it out with more of an image-heavy ramble this time around.

What did you guys think of Steven Meisel's Twitter inspired cover and editorial for Vogue Italia? Personally it made me feel ill, but you've got to give the guy credit; this issue is going to sell out for pure novelty alone.

The cover, featuring Christy Turlington, Lara Stone, Gisele, Kasia Struss and Natalia Vodianova. Yes this is an actual Vogue cover, I didn't just whip it up on Paint on my computer. I know.

Twitter style index of all the models featured. Or who you are following, I should say.

Gisele steaming up her iPhone.

My favorite pic, Sessilee Lopez smoking on the balcony.

And my favorite model Abbey Lee... on the loo... hmm.

Overall I hated it! I liked some bits, but I really hope no-one follows Meisel's lead. Otherwise I might cry.

I don't really understand the big deal with Twitter. I think it's quite crap to be honest. I only use it to give more leverage to my blog and at that I don't update as much as I'm apparently meant to. I don't see how it could be so inspiring...

Images via Fashion Gone Rogue. Click to view the rest of the spread.

Currently listening to 'Violet Star Happy Hunting' by Janelle Monáe.

Books & Trinkets

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 22:21:00 +0000

I wrote about some new shoes I was expecting in the post from Urban Outfitters a while back and there was a little bit of disappointment and a little bit of glee.

The loafers didn't work out; they were far too big for me and certainly not as nice in real life as online. The ankle boots are wonderful and I've been wearing them every day since. So I returned the loafers and had some lovely store credit to pick up a few bits and bobs with.

Because I work in American Apparel five days a week and have to wear the brand head-to-toe, I don't really buy much elsewhere, because I can't wear other labels as much as I'd like to . So I gathered a couple of trinkets and books; the sort of things I wouldn't necessarily buy otherwise, but love to when given the chance.

I just had to pick up this Pocket Watch Necklace, what a beauty. I feel like the White Rabbit from Alice In Wonderland with it and now never have an excuse to be late.

I've always wanted a skinny studded accessory like this Leather Wrap Bracelet and was very pleased to spot it this evening.

This Brown Feather Beaded Clip is another item I wouldn't normally part with my hard-earned cash on any given day, but today was different and I'm so excited to try it out.

I love the books in Urban Outfitters; I'd spend all my money on all of them if I was slightly more crazier than I already am, but luckily I haven't crossed that line yet. One of the books I picked up was Domino: The Book Of Decorating and I'm half thinking of giving it to my Mum for Christmas, but I don't know if I can part with it just yet. It's just as pretty on the inside as it is on the outside and I'm hoping it will give me some much needed inspiration to clean and organize my mess of an apartment.

I also had an old iTunes gift card lying around and am really looking forward to the walk to work in the morning for a change, just so I can listen to some new music!

Overall a pretty good haul don't you think? And I feel like I haven't spent a penny. Which obviously isn't the case, but just goes to show how economically retarded I tend to be. Happy days.

Currently listening to 'The Reeling' by Passion Pit.

25% Off American Apparel

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 20:18:00 +0000

American Apparel Dublin are holding a last minute event this coming Tuesday 8th December between 5-8pm. With 25% off all American Apparel branded merchandise, it's a fantastic excuse to get some guilt-free shopping underway.

As usual, you can also avail of getting your purchases wrapped in tissue paper and placed in the loveliest gift boxes free of charge, so that's Christmas presents for under the tree sorted. Pop in, say hello and see what we're doing.

Currently listening to 'Psychic City' by Yacht.

Alasdair McLellan

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 21:57:00 +0000

Alasdair McLellan is the photographer responsible for the risqué tabloid-esque pictures featuring Lara Stone in my last post and he's currently one of my favorites, so I thought I'd shoot up some of the best of his recent work with i-D Magazine.

Agyness Deyn and Kim Jones on the cover of i-D Magazine.

Dree Hemingway and Darryl Sharp in i-D Magazine.

Julia Restoin-Roitfeld in i-D Magazine.

Jamie Dornan and Lara Stone in i-D Magazine.

Lily Allen in i-D Magazine.

All images via Models.com.

Currently listening to 'Soldier On' by The Temper Trap.

The Super Nature Issue

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 21:11:00 +0000

I had the super fun task of going to Reads to pick up a bunch of international fashion magazines for the girls in the marketing office last time I was in interning and it was pretty much as if they'd given me free reign in a candy shop; I picked up so many goodies.

The current issue of i-D magazine is as fantastic as ever and I particularly loved the cheeky editorial featuring Lara Stone and Jamie Dornan, as photographed by Alasdair McLellan.

Above are a couple of my favorite outtakes. Totally beats the drab Vogue UK editorial she featured in for the December 2009 issue.

Images via The Fashion Time Magazine.

Currently listening to 'Official Girl (CFCF Remix)' by Cassie.

Julian Plenti

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:23:00 +0000

I went to see Julian Plenti play at The Academy last night and it was honestly one of the best gigs I've been to. There is no denying that Paul Banks is a genius and a fantastic performer, both with Interpol and Julian Plenti.

It was the first stop on his European tour and he kept saying thank you and how great our reaction to the new material was throughout the performance, which I thought was very charming.

Now all I have to do is make my way back to The Academy to try and get the amazing tour poster they had up for the show. It would look lovely framed beside my Interpol tour poster in the sitting room. I'm such a nerd...

Currently listening to 'Fun That We Have' by Julian Plenti.

New Shoes

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:21:00 +0000

Oooh I love receiving packages in the post! And I have a very exciting parcel to expect through my letter box very soon indeed.

I just ordered a lovely pair of Tassel Brogues and Lace Up Ankle Boots from Urban Outfitters and I am awaiting their delivery with glee.

The Bass Tassel Loafer is very old school and I am very excited to wear them with my Dark Teal or Burgundy Opaque Pantyhose from American Apparel. Nerdy chic!

The Plain Lace Up Ankle Boot is a lot daintier and I'm definitely going to mix it up by wearing them with my Sheer Luxe Back Seam Pantyhose, from AA also.

I love new shoes and tights, they're all you need to make your wardrobe transition from late summer to cosy winter. That and the perfect Winter Jacket of course!

Currently listening to 'Silently' by Blonde Redhead.

Audrey Encore

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 22:01:00 +0000

I really loved the Audrey Hepburn inspired editorial in the Irish Independent Weekend Magazine from Saturday 14th of November. The model was so beautiful and the styling was really elegant.

I guess when life gets a bit hectic and crazy, I usually find myself being drawn to classic and calm influences and the above image would certainly go on my mood board, if I had one up and running at the moment.

Currently listening to 'Someone Great' by LCD Soundsystem.

The Lovely Bones London Premiere

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 21:37:00 +0000

The London premiere of The Lovely Bones took place the night before last and Irish actress Saoirse Ronan wore a fabulous dove grey, Grecian style Burberry dress. I've written about Saoirse before and I'm a huge fan of her ethereal beauty and startling talent. She has an extremely bright future ahead of her.

I remember reading The Lovely Bones and it actually moved me to tears at a couple of points, which never really happens with anything to be honest! So I'm quite excited to see how the film turns out. I have a feeling with Saoirse leading the cast, it will surely do the novel justice.

Image via Saoirse Ronan Fansite.

Currently listening to 'Fighter Plane' by Ellie Goulding.

Bobbi Brown Chrome Collection Holiday 2009

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 20:51:00 +0000

I was pottering around Brown Thomas today on my break from interning, trying to get ideas for Christmas presents for the family, because I'm going to go shopping (on my only day off this week) on Sunday, to take advantage of the exclusive Brown Thomas Loyalty Cardholder Event taking place this weekend, when I saw the new images for‏ Bobbi Brown's Chrome Collection for Christmas 2009.

I've always had a soft spot for Bobbi Brown make-up. It's classic and luxurious and I love the streamlined, clean packaging. I think their Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner is by far the best of its kind and I still have the Bobbi Brown Teenage Beauty book my Dad gave me years ago.

It wasn't really the collection that caught my eye, but more so the stunning model. I've seen her before in Bobbi Brown campaigns and she has to be my ultimate beauty icon. Her classic, yet exotic allure makes me want to buy the whole collection just so I can try and emulate her look.

Currently listening to 'You've Got The Love (The xx Remix)' by Florence & The Machine.

Lady In Red

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 23:26:00 +0000

Oh Alexa! She's done it again. I love everything about her look at the 2009 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Awards. The striking red lip... the matching Jason Wu SS10 red cocktail dress... the patent ballet pumps... absolute perfection.

As annoying as she can sometimes be, there is no denying that Alexa Chung is a modern day icon. She is one of the most naturally beautiful and stylish girls out there. Not to mention I would do anything for those legs.

Image via Pop Sugar.

Currently listening to 'All For The Best' by Thom Yorke.

Jak & Jil For Victoria's Secret

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 00:04:00 +0000

Tommy Ton of Jak & Jil was commissioned by Style.com to shoot exclusive behind the scenes footage of this years Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.

Such a good collaboration! I was so excited when I saw the pictures.

Nothing like a bit of Victoria's Secret model body envy to motivate you to get in shape! To see the rest of the pics, click here.

Currently listening to 'Midas Touch Remix' by Boards Of Canada.

Secret Satchels

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 23:45:00 +0000

I haven't been keeping up-to-date on my favorite blogs at all lately, so took the time to visit some of my old online haunts this evening.

Whilst flicking through the musings of Gala Darling, I spotted the cutest satchel ever and followed the link to The Cambridge Satchel Company which looks like a small British company that handcrafts classic leather satchels.

I want every size in every color, they're all so cute! The above purple style is particularly eyecatching and a fresh, quirky twist on an old classic.

I have a feeling this little secret won't be kept quite for long.

Currently listening to 'Wordy Rappinghood' by Chicks On Speed.

Daulmonster Forever

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:39:00 +0000

I was shocked to the core when I found out about the passing of one of my favorite models Daul Kim.

I first fell in love with the strikingly beautiful and wonderfully quirky Korean model when I came across her clips on Modelinia and became an avid fan of her blog I Like To Fork Myself soon thereafter.

Daul was popular not only as a model, but as a DJ also and everyone loved her as a brunette and even more as a peroxide blonde. She was multi-faceted and talented and had the most amazing attitude and humor.

There was just something about Daul that made me wish I knew her in real life and that she was one of my real friends.

The cause of death has yet to be confirmed, but sources are claiming it wasn't under suspicious circumstances and that the beautiful model took her own life.

Which is really crushingly heart breaking. We will never know what goes on inside each others heads and not many of us will ever understand the torment and everyday ordeal caused when suffering from depression.

All I know is that I will never forget Daulmonster. She was my first proper favorite model and a real inspiration to me in terms of staying true to your own individuality and living life with the best sense of humor possible.

May she rest in peace. Forever.

All images taken from a variety of sources through Google.

Currently listening to 'Nude' by Radiohead.

Currently Coveting

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 01:26:00 +0000

I haven't done a Currently Coveting post in quite some time. Possibly because I haven't lusted after anything very noteworthy at all. Until I laid my eyes upon this...

The Wolfberry Cocktail Dress, designed by Roksanda Ilincic for Whistles and as modeled by Ali Michael below, actually made me go weak at the knees when I first spotted it on the 2nd floor of Brown Thomas a couple of weeks ago.

It's completely covered in black lacquered corsages and looks like a wearable piece of art. It's mouth-wateringly beautiful, but also looks slightly sinister and poisonous. I'm head over heels in love with a dress.

I'm pretty sure I've had dreams about it. I feel like I've tried it on, but I know I haven't; I didn't have the time to when I first saw it and wouldn't have been brave enough to. If it didn't look as good on me as it did on the mannequin, I surely would have cried.

None the less, it has become a secret obsession of mine. Here's hoping it's still in stock come pay day.

Currently listening to 'Bad Romance' by Lady Gaga.

Turn On The Bright Lights

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:51:00 +0000

I left work in a really good mood tonight and instead of being annoyed by the fact it was windy and raining, I strolled up Grafton Street and took pictures of the infamous Brown Thomas Christmas windows.

The Brown Thomas Christmas windows are a landmark on Grafton Street every year and I used to remember being so excited as a kid, going to see them at Christmas time, followed by a trip to Santa's Grotto. Aw memories, so cute.

This year they stuck with a classic Christmas theme, but the warmth and luxury that shines through as you stand there admiring the display proves that classic certainly doesn't mean boring.

Yummy, mini mountains of Ladurée macaroons (pictured above).

Not to forget the BT2 Christmas windows just down the street! I really love the "It's What's Inside That Counts" theme the store went with this year.

I want to own literally every prop they've used in the display (see below); everything is so quirky and cute and the windows look like the inside of a cosy little apartment.

After my stroll up Grafton Street, I took a look up at all the magical Christmas lights lining the way and the sight melted my cold heart a little bit.

For all you non-Irish readers out there "Nollaig Shona Duit" means Merry Christmas in Irish. And I'm certainly looking forward to a Merry Christmas indeed this year.

Currently listening to 'My Girls' by Animal Collective.

A Quick Note

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:06:00 +0000

I just want to apologize for the state of the blog at the moment. I started playing around with the layout a while back, because I wanted a fresh new look, but unfortunately I shouldn't have started messing with something I have no clue about!

I wish I could say that I'm working on it, but what with working and interning six days a week and being too exhausted to do anything other than sleep, eat and blog on my only day off, it's going to take me a while to get this sorted.

There appears to be something weird going on as well, because when you click Next Post at the bottom of the page, only the headings of my older posts show up and also there are lots of random Spanish words floating about. Hmm...

Hopefully this great picture of everyone's idol Lara Stone will make up for it in the mean time.

Currently listening to 'Let's Buy Happiness' by Boyz Noise.

Karl McCaughey Photography

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:13:00 +0000

I've been meaning to blog about a guy I know Karl McCaughey for some time now. I mentioned him in a post a while back, when he did the PR shots for American Apparel Dublin, but his work is pretty great and I wanted to share it with you guys.

Pictured above are James, Sophie and Antony who all modeled in a Circus themed shoot Karl did for Limehouse Magazine.

Some more of my favorite pics taken by Karl are the studio and live shots of our friend Patrick's amazing band The Vagabonds, as pictured below.

Check out their MySpace and come to their next gig, they're absolutely brilliant live.

As you can see from the above pictures, Karl's style is wide and varied and my favorite Paul Banks look-a-like certainly has a bright future ahead of him! His work can be seen frequently in The Dubliner Magazine.

I love writing about creative and talented people that I know, because at the end of the day, they're who inspire me the most.

All images taken from Karl's website and blog.

Currently listening to 'Broken Drum (Boards of Canada Remix)' by Beck.

Stellar Magazine December 2009

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:31:00 +0000

The December issue of STELLAR Magazine hit the newsstand last Thursday and Leonn and I ran from work in a tizzy to see how our big editorial debut looked.

The opening page of the article is really striking and I love how we all look so different and showcase our own individual style.

Pictured above from left to right is Blanaid of Blanaid, Laura of The Stylebitches, Catherine of OffShoot, Jessica of Get Your Frocks Off, Laura of Whisty Blogs Dublin Fashion, Arsheen of Fashion Filosofy, Leonn of Cosmo-Sparkle and me.

I'm not too fond of my own page in the article and that's no reflection on the wonderful work of Lili Forberg or Corina Gaffey whatsoever, they were a dream to collaborate with.

I just regret choosing the outfit I wore on the day and hate the way I look so pale and am posing so awkwardly... This is why I don't post pics of myself on Ophelia Ford. I hate photos of myself, which is quite a funny trait.

Also my name is spelled wrong, which I usually wouldn't care about, but recently in both work and my internship (and now in STELLAR) people always leave the O out of my surname O'Doherty. Grrr.

But anyway, I certainly have no right to complain! It was so exciting to be featured in one of Ireland's top fashion magazines and I will never forget the wonderful experience.

Top image scanned by Laura of Whisty Blogs Dublin Fashion and bottom image scanned by me.

Currently listening to 'Qui Est Cette Fille' by Yelle.

New Spectacles

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:51:00 +0000

I bought new glasses the other day and they're lovely. I've always been as blind as a bat, but absolutely hated wearing glasses because I've never actually found a pair that I liked. I wear contact lenses now and again, but they scratch my eyes, so really aren't the best option.

In fact, if you read the About Me section on my Facebook, you will notice I have a paragraph from 'Scar Tissue' by Anthony Kiedis quoted...

"She had an ethereal, dreamy personality that was typified by her adamant refusal to wear glasses despite terrible nearsightedness. I once asked her if she could see without them and she said that things were very fuzzy. So why didn't she wear the glasses? I really do prefer the world unclear, she said."

I don't know what's more annoyingly ironic, having that quote on my Facebook or suddenly starting to wear nerd glasses. Hmm...

I made my way to Optilase around the corner from work, because I noticed that they had started stocking Cutler and Gross, which are possibly the chicest glasses I've ever laid my eyes upon.

I couldn't wait to spend my hard earned cash on a pair. Where others will blow 400 bills on a pair of shoes or a bag, I went all out on a pair of specs. They are going on my face after all...

Anyway I've decided to start a little side project after a fun night out with my new glasses in tow... Check it out here.

Currently listening to 'Satan Said Dance' by Clap Your Hands Say Yeah.

Vintage Blogging

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:33:00 +0000

When I'm not working or interning (or sleeping) I blog for American Apparel Dublin on the California Select Blog. Click here to keep up-to-date on all of AA Dublin's contributions.

Today was lots of fun putting this week's post together, because we got a delivery of Vintage Winter Coats and Jackets from the California Select Headquarters in LA yesterday.

How cute is Leonn? She modeled for the post, along with our fellow Sales Associate Jane, who is so incredibly fabulous and our super Store Manager Liam. I love this picture!

Leonn is wearing American Apparel Vintage Eyeglasses, California Select Vintage Tweed Blazer, California Select Vintage Leather Belt and American Apparel Opaque Two Colour Pantyhose.

Picture taken by me in American Apparel Dublin.

Currently listening to "Shadows (Tanlines Remix)" by Au Revoir Simone.

Where The Wild Things Are

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:57:00 +0000

I didn't have much of a conventional childhood at all, so any time there is huge nostalgic hype regarding iconic milestones from our youth, I often find myself at quite a loss as to what the big deal is.

So today I ventured out on my lunch break and bought "Where The Wild Things Are" before it became any more obvious how out of the loop I am.

I'm really looking forward to going home, making a cup of hot chocolate and giving it a peep!

Even though I don't know what all the hype is about, I do know if Opening Ceremony are going to do a collaboration with Spike Jonze, in ode to his cinematic portrayl of the book, it can't be all that disappointing.

Any Irish "Where The Wild Things Are" fans can look forward to BT2 and BTKids marking the release of the movie in early December. I'll be sure to keep you guys updated!

Currently listening to "Heartbreaker" by MSTRKRFT Feat. John Legend.

The Haunted Tree

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:55:00 +0000

Ok I promise Ophelia Ford isn't turning into an American Apparel shrine or anything, I just really want to share all these great pics.

They're pretty much what's inspiring me these days. "The Haunted Tree" featuring Britney below is really cool. I don't really know how else to describe it.

The boys in Back Stock are claiming Britney's a porn star though! I really hope not... As if the Sheer Luxe Cut-Out Pantyhose featuring Sasha Grey aren't bad enough!

You can purchase the Tie Dye Slim Slack here. I never wear jeans anymore, but these are incredible.

Images taken from American Apparel.

Currently listening to "So Insane" by Discovery.

Velvet Floppy Bow

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:24:00 +0000

I really love the new direction American Apparel is taking itself these days and am so excited to be a part of the whole process.

Any time I log onto the website, there's always something new and exciting waiting there to surprise me.

Like the pictures shown below. So chic and elegant, but still that little bit quirky.

You can purchase the California Select Velvet Floppy Bow here.

Images taken from American Apparel.

Currently listening to "Horchata" by Vampire Weekend.

BT2 AW09

opheliaford@gmail.com (Ophelia Ford) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 21:35:00 +0000

I'm really excited about starting back to my internship in the Brown Thomas Marketing & Communications Department tomorrow.

On top of working full time as a Key Holder in American Apparel, I will be interning for Brown Thomas and BT2 Marketing one day a week.

So expect lots of updates on the amazing events both stores will be holding in the run up to Christmas!

The above pictures are taken from BT2's AW09 shoot. I absolutely adore them!

Photography by Andreas Pettersson.
Styling by Paula Hughes.
Hair by Michael Leong.
Make-Up by Grainne Duffy.

Currently listening to "Hustler" by Simian Mobile Disco.