Guest posts and Collaborations

Are you a blogger? Or maybe you have something you would like to share? I'd be happy to post it on my blog and give you all the credit for it! Guest posts are welcome! I also do the same and post for others, if you would like me to let me know! Head over to the contact page!

Blog Update: There is now ads on the site, I set up Google Adsense. A great way to earn money from blogging, check it out.

Efya Lauren x

Why I started blogging?

Hi, guys today i'm sharing why I started blogging. I love to blog, something I do almost everyday. It's the perfect way to share what you wanna say with the rest of the world. It's quite interesting and fun, meeting new people and learning new things. I've been blogging for 8 months now and it's be an awesome experience.

So why did I start blogging?

I love to draw and I was doing a lot of research around January. I had heard of blogs but I didn't really know what they were so I did a little bit more research. Handling a website to me was too much work and I didn't know the first thing about HTML and coding. A blog was just right. Google do all the coding and hard work, along the way you pick up things about code and learn.

I needed somewhere to share my designs, thoughts - the perfect place to do it was a blog. My blog was going to be in the fashion niche. Which is extremely competitive. The good news about it is that 90% of them really suck and are never updated. I was going to give this blogging thing a try!

I settled with Google's blogger, easy and quick. You can start a blog in 5 mins. The hard part was gathering the traffic. I told all my friends, put it on all the social networks I had, however nothing was working. After thinking hard I thought of what I would want in a good blog and those were:

• Good presentation 
• Good Grammar 
• Good Content 
• Giveaways
• Engaging with the reader.

I started to brush up on all these things and the traffic started to flow! I started enjoying blogging and I began to engage with other bloggers. I also made friends. I want to know my readers! Tell me who you are! 

Efya x

The best places to learn fashion illustration

Hi guys, pretty stupid one picture posts today right? Had a summer clean! Anyway, I've been drawing since the age of 9, realised fashion illustration was something I wanted to do at the age of 12. At the start, I was so terrible at it. I did my drawings in a Biro and the heads were bigger than the bodies Lol. I needed some help. This is my list (in no particular order) of the best places (on the Internet) to learn fashion illustration. I learnt from various places, GOOD PLACES!

1. Youtube

One of the best place I learnt (and I'm still learning)  is Youtube. What better place to learn than a place full of videos! I learnt from a range of channels that upload really good content and I'd love to share them with you!

• Zyra Banez - https://www.youtube.com/user/zyra333
• FashionArtventures - https://www.youtube.com/user/elidada84
• Fsketcher - https://www.youtube.com/user/FSketcher
• Fashion Teaching - https://www.youtube.com/user/FashionTeaching 

2. I draw fashion - http://www.idrawfashion.com/

This is the very first website I started using, great and it gets to the point. The tutorials are really helpful. The author is Teya Bozhhilova, she also offers fashion drawing classes on skype and gives you free feedback on your portfolio. 

3. Udemy - https://www.udemy.com/fashion-design-illustration-for-beginners/

Udemy is a place to learn anything, free online courses and paid online courses. They have a few lessons on fashion art so Check them out, you do need an account with them, so go on it's free! 

I think the best place out of these three is Youtube. What do you think?

Fashion Infographics: Ways to wear your tee

Fashion Infographics: Sunglasses

Style Combo of the day

Welcome to our 3rd Style combo post! Where I'll be giving you great garments and where you can get them from for incredibly affordable prices! Lets go!

Here you can get this gorgeous white laced dress with a navy bottom for just £7.31. It looks more complete when you wear a belt with it however that's personal preference.

Click here for the dress

This second dress is a stunning prom dress that can only be used for special occasions.
I'm now in love with the dress! Yes, the best part is I tell you where you can get it from! Are you guys ready for the price........................£13.67 yes! It's totally for real!

Click here to get this stunning dress

In my opinion, this dress is so adorable. The shoes are just the cutest ever! I can tell you where to get the dress, however the shoes aren't on the website anymore! This item are must haves! Absolute must have. Click here for the dress 

It's not winter yet, but it's approaching fast. This coat is the perfect coat to keep you warm and keep you in style too. It's stylish and warm and comfy, who would of thought you'd find those 3 features in a coat? 

Get the coat here for £14.37

Thanks for reading my style combo post, make sure to read the previous ones too, they really rocked. I hope you enjoyed the post and you do buy some of the picks. 

Efya x

Quick Reminder! - Bloglovin'

If you're a regular blog reader, it will be a good idea for you to get a Bloglovin' account and follow all your favourite blogs on there including us! If you do have one head over to the left hand side of the blog and click on the bloglovin' picture which will direct you to bloglovin'. If you don't have a bloglovin' account and don't want to make one you can also follow via the Google followers gadget on the left which takes less than 30 seconds. Kindly follow.

Lauren x

British Tag

Good Morning, Afternoon and Evening to everyone (couldn't pick one as were all in different time zones). Today i'm going to be doing the British tag, Yesterday I did the Ghana tag, to see that click here. I decided to do this tag because I was born and live here so it makes sense! I got the idea from a blog I started reading called MissBellaboo99. She's just starting out, it's an ever so cute blog with great posts click here to see it. Lets go!

1. How many cups of tea do you drink a day? 

Well. This addiction kind of comes from my mum because she drinks a lot of tea, so I do too. On a weekday when going to school I'll have one in the morning and one in the evening. However now that I haven't been going to school I think i've been drinking at least 3 a day. 

2. What's your favourite part of a roast dinner?

STUFFING! I can't get enough of stuffing, it's so delicious. It's not something your supposed to eat by itself but I love to.

3. What's your favourite dunking biscuit?

My favourite dunking biscuit has to be digestives... the icky part is when all the crumbs get stuck at the bottom.

4. Favourite British pass time? 

I'm not even sure if this counts, but mum and daughter baking time. I love it!

5. Favourite word?

Cheerio.

6. Favourite sweet?

Cola Bottles.

7. Favourite British person?

Right now, it's Tanya Burr.

8. Favourite shop? 

My favourite British shops have to be Topshop and Primark. Where would we all be without Primark?

9. What British song pops into your head? 

Ummmm, wow... I don't think I know many, I'll go for anything by Take that. Lol. 

10. Marmite?

ew. Even though I've never tasted it. 

Hair and Beauty Blogger wanted! [GIVEAWAY]

I'm advertising again guys because I still haven't found anyone! A hair and beauty blogger is still needed for this blog! Now i've decided to make this interesting and do a giveaway. Whoever fills in for the post gets my Derwent Studio 12 set pencils and WHSmith set of 24 Watercolour pencils and a personalised Fashion illustration of them! 

Just because I'm doing a giveaway doesn't mean just anyone can enter, you must have good knowledge about hair and makeup. Ideally for white people and Asians because I already blog for Black hair and makeup.

*THIS GIVE AWAY IS ONLY OPEN TO BRITISH CITIZENS.

What do I  have to do? 

1. You must show your skills some way or another, however it must not be a blog post because the content could of been copied and pasted. Examples of what you could do; a video demonstrating your skills, a photo tutorial demonstrating your skills. Anyway possible you can show me that your worthy of the post. 

How do I get this to Lauren?

1. I'd like the submissions by email: laureywilliamsfashion@gmail.com

2. Alternatively could hastag #hairandbeautyforlaureys and mention me on either twitter or instagram: @efyalaurenxox

Criteria:

I am looking for original work .

I am looking for someone who can talk about the subject thoroughly without doing heavy research. 

Rules and guidelines:

*You must submit original work

*You must be between 12 - 18 years of age

*You must have or make a Google Account 

*You must be flexible in terms of time, to be blogging regularly 

The blogger description:

This blogger will blog about hair and makeup only. This blogger have to post at least once every two days. We will devise a timetable. The blogger must be friendly, fun and cater for all types of makeup styles. Vlogs are welcome however not all the time. After blogging you must make sure that your posts are shared via social media such as twitter, facebook, tumblr, Instagram and so on. 

When joining the team you'll have your own tab in the menu bar with your name or nickname so that people know who you are and who is delivering the content. 

The giveaway ends October 31st Midnight, Keep your eyes peeled because I may be adding for prizes to it.

Good Luck everyone! May the best beautician Win! 

4 good Art Mediums

Hi, guys. I decided to do this post because a reader asked me what are some really good art materials to use for fashion illustration. I am going to try and use different mediums and this is in no particular order.

1. Alcohol Based Markers - My favourite

These are what I use to colour my fashion illustrations, they are really good. An easy way for filling spaces with block colour and creating depth, shadows and highlights. I must say that they are expensive but some brands are cheaper than others. Brands of alcohol based markers include:

• Letraset Promarkers (What I use) 
• Copic Ciao Markers (What I want) 
• Spectrum Noir Markers (What I can't afford lol.) 

To see a quick review of the Promarkers and Copics, Head over to the post I did a while ago on it. To go there click Here. It does require a bit of practice using them though and if not careful they leak.

2. Watercolour 

Watercolour comes in mainly two forms; tubes and pan. However you can also buy watercolour pencils. I have all forms but the one that works best with me is pan, I just find it easy. Watercolour can be purchased anywhere but the high street ones usually aren't that good. I have high street watercolours. Some good brands for watercolour are:

• Windsor and Newton
• M.Graham
• Sennelier 
• Derwent 

3. Charcoal and Pastels 

Charcoal is charcoal. No special brands. It cannot be specially made, all charcoal is charcoal. Just that it comes in different forms. 

• roar charcoal
• charcoal pencils 
• charcoal sticks 

Pastels are a good media to use to create a different kind of look and it just looks different from other medias. There are different types of pastels:

• Soft Pastels 
• Oil Pastels
• Hard 

4. Colouring pencils 

Colouring pencils also come in different types and it's best to buy the best you can afford when it comes to them because rubbing out colouring pencils is not easy. There are some really good brands for colouring pencils. My favourite is Faber Castell and Derwent. Their things are amazing quality and not expensive at all. Good brands for colouring pencils.

• Faber Castell
• Derwent
• Prismacolor 

I hope you enjoyed the post and it helps you make some decisions on what mediums to use and buy x

Efya x

GHANA TAG!

Hello, my lovelies! Welcome to my Ghana tag post! I am Ghanaian and love all things Ghanaian, love all things African for that matter. So today i'm doing the Ghana Tag. Boohoo. Not in video form though, it's gonna take a while before the vlogs start coming. Anyway lets go!

Where in Ghana are you from?

I'm not from the Capital - Accra, I'm from a small town called Bompata. Funny story, i'm royalty there but I don't really take it seriously. My Grandma is Queen Mother of the town and Grandad is some kind of King of the town. So this will eventually be passed down to my mum and then me. So I guess it's a royal stool and it's been in our family for a long time. I actually loved my Grandma's crowning ceremony! So African! Powder, red stuff and everything!

Where you born in Ghana?

No, I was born in Leytonstone, London however I've always told people that i'm Ghanaian because I love the place and My parents come from there so I'm Ghanaian!

What is your Ghanaian name?

Wow. My Ghanaian name is part of this blog's title. Most of my Ghanaian friends called me Efya, it means Friday born. Correctly Spelt; Afua I think... However I jazzed it up. The full name is: Awura Afua Gabra
Pronounced: Araa efwuaa Gar bra. To shorten the confusion, call me Lauren, Laurey or Efya.

What is my favourite Ghanaian food?

Was waiting for this question! One thing I adore about my country is the food! I love it! I have so many favourites but I'll limit it down to 3.

1. Jolllo! Jollo! Jollof!

You guys may know it as the orange rice. Yes, it is orange and if made well it's amazing. I can eat jollof all day because it is that good. I never eat it alone, I usually have it with sides like; kelewele, chicken, salad, plantain.

www.jollofinfo.com

2. Fufu

Those of you in 10S who think fufu is cuscus, NO. Fufu is a starchy food. In Ghana I think it's done with Plantain, Cassava and all the natural stuff. In London you can buy neat fufu. However that doesn't agree with my stomach so I use fufu flour and farina to make it. My favourite soup eaten with it has to be Abenkwan, so GOOOOOOD.

multiculturalrecipes.blogspot.com

3. Red Red - Plantain and beans

Red Red is plantain and black eyed beans really. I love it, don't eat it much though.

http://izobahafriq.blogspot.co.uk/2012_07_14_archive.html

4. When was the last time you went to Ghana? 

2011.

5. Favourite Ghanaian Artist

So so hard to pick so I will list them all!

• Sarkodie
• EL
• Shatta Wale 
• Stonebwouy
• Efya
• Tiffany
• Fuse ODG
• R2BEES
• Bisa Kdei
• Chris Waddle
• D-Black
• Joey B
• Phootprintz 
• Castro - RIP 

5. What represents Ghana in your house?

Every Ghanaian can relate to this. Most of us have this random lady sitting in our house and we don't know where she comes from! Akwaaba means Welcome in twi.

Do I speak any Ghanaian languages?

uh oh. Well i'm a 50% twi speaker. 

I hope you guys enjoyed my Ghana Tag, soon I'll be doing a British Tag, I don't think it's fair for me to live here and not do one lol so expect that soon! Thanks for Reading!

Efya x

Popular Posts!

Late night post, so this is going to be a quick one! Hi to any new readers! Thanks for reading Efya Lauren illustrations! I just wanted to show you some of our greatest post that brought the most traffic. You may not see them because they were written quite a while back this year. This is in order of views.

#1 Historical Fashion - Taking it back to the 1960's

I wrote this post, to give you an idea of where today's fashion comes from and I honestly did not expect it to be the most viewed post! Took me by absolute surprise!

#2 The makeup for a casual day out - Avi

One Friday night I went over to my besties house and helped her put this post together! No special equipment! My iPhone camera and our average makeup.

#3 The Messy Bun Tutorial - Narin

My lovely fashion and make up whiz Narin, did a guest post for me on messy buns and it fetched a lot of views. She's brilliant she is and definitely needs her own blog because I for one would have my eyes glued to it.

#4 Beauty has no skin tone - MUST READ

This isn't a must read because I want the views to increase. It's a must read because I want people to get the message. So please, for my sake and yours - read the post.

Please do read the posts! What about you guys? What are your favourite posts?

Style Combo of the day.

Hi everyone, welcome to Style combo of the day. Today I have a few handpicked choices for you, and how to get the look!

This here is a beautiful lace dress shown in blue and yellow, however white is available for purchase too on the site. This dress is only £8.85! Bargain!!!!
Get the look here!

 In my opinion these are absolutely stunning! They are so beautiful. I admire the simplicity and the Necklace adding the touch of class. Great to wear to a formal gathering. Again, the price can't get any better at an amazing price of £7.29!

Get the look here!

Yes, these hot heels are selling for just £19.27. Get yours now for an amazing price today! They're beautiful, the patterns are wow, they stand out and they're very unique. This will fit you very well if your chic, or even Parisian Chic. For more of a chic look go for either heel 3 or 4.
Click here for heel 1
Click here for heel 2
Click here for heel 3 & 4

Lastly this pretty petite pastel green dress is really beautiful for a date or something kind of casual however not corner shop casual.
Get the look here!

I'm going to stop now! I could continue forever lol!

My Summer.

I actually can't believe next week I am going back to school. Really looking forward to it though, I miss my friends! Anyway I'm doing a post on my summer and what I did. 

The first week was the junky kind of week. Sitting at home, eating junk, watching tv and chilling! Then 1st August came where I attended Ghana Party In The Park with my cousin. We went to see Ghanaian sensation R2BEES, Mr Silva, Flava and Kwamz. It was absolutely amazing! 

In the second week I went to stay in Dagenham with my Dad and siblings. Day 1 was bowling, Day 2 was shopping, Day 3 was Olympic Park, Day 4 was exploring the city and Day 5 was the funfair. It was really fun. 

Family!

Next two weeks I was at home, went to Regents Park, Spent a few days in Luton with my Aunty. Absolutely adore her as she teaches fashion and textiles! We have a lot in common Lol. I then stayed at home ate a lot, visited the V&A countless times and blogged :).

Oops!

Our last post seems to have duplicated itself many times! Don't worry I'm working on it!

Kindly Follow

Hi everyone, recently I've added the followers by Google widget. It is on the right hand side under our bloglovin' widget. Kindly follow us and if you have a blog we'll follow you too. Just drop the link in the comments. Follow us on Bloglovin' too. Next to our labels you can also subscribe to our newsletter and be the first one to know about new posts that come out.

Please follow, thanks 

much love, Lauren x

Where to send your fashion sketches?

You draw almost like a pro. You do it everyday. It's your passion, your life. However your confined to your own space with your designs in your little folder. Ever asked yourself where can I send my illustrations? Read on my lovelies. Hopefully this helps.

1. Mewze

I recently created a blog post on this so you guys can go and check that out over here: http://www.laureysfashion.blogspot.co.uk/2014/08/mewze.html. I won't talk much, head over to the post.

2. Open up and network yourself!

If you want your illustrations recognized and you don't have a facebook, twitter, instagram, tumblr or at least one of them you're not serious. If you aren't socializing then you are your own problem here! Use hashtags in everything. That way, people find people that like or are doing the same things. You also meet new people.

3. Have some sort of E-Portfolio

I have a portfolio tab at the top of my blog for my use and also if others want to look. This is extremely helpful when people want to see what you do. There are many E-portfolio hosts online some are free and some aren't.

4. Find the big blogs and big names

You need to do a little research and networking. Don't be afraid. Hassle them. Be constantly emailing Chanel and Gucci because that is the only way they'll notice you!

5. Build links in the fashion industry

Nowadays, the truth is no matter how hard you work all industries will always be based on who you know. Now I don't know many teens who know a lot of people in the industry personally so you have to build the links yourself! See Ellen from Design Union? Say Hi, tell her your aim and drop your portfolio link. See Martin from CSM? Find his email and tell him how much you want to go the uni and drop your portfolio. It's all down to you. One idea; Find the directory of fashion designers. Find their emails and just mass email them Lol.

6. KNOW your FACTS.

Before claiming the spotliight, know your facts.

• Know who is who in the industry
• Know who does what
• Know the different roles played
• Know how they work 
• Know the trends 
• Know the language 
• Know the ways 

Some people (especially famous people) have no pity whatsoever on new designers so they expect you to know everything because the niche that we're in is extremely competitive. So know your facts like the back of your hand. This will make you look extremely professional and ready for anything.

7. Make your email professional.

Your Email is the one thing you will always need. The Email you have defines you. EG: 

• You Email Chanel with your portfolio link
• Your email is Stardragonstarfishjustinbieberisbae@hotmail.com

1. Your Email is ridiculous so they won't bother opening it.
2. They'll think you're spam.
3. They'll move you to the trash.

PEACE OUT.

How I Blog

Well, the way I blog is very easy. No secret formula, however if your a blogger this may interest you too. 

I can't start blogging without my malt. Friends of mine reading his are probably laughing but it's very true. I'm absolutely addicted to Supermalt and I drink it before I blog everyday because it's something I love lol and motivates me. So that's the first thing I do. I have or do something I really like before.

Next I find what i'm going to blog about. For inspiration I head over to pinterest, tumblr and bloglovin to give me ideas. I also have a big ebook full of posts for my blog and I just pick and choose lol. I also have a number of books on fashion and sometimes I get my ideas from there. 

Once I've found out what i'm blogging about I collect any images or info needed for the post and then I start writing, spell check and finally spread the word! 

Laurey x

Style combo of the day

Hi guys, so I actually look at these kind of combo's on tumblr a lot and I thought why not do it for the blog too? 

So here we've got a floral blue and white cropped tank top, a denim jacket, a back tulle skater skirt, a black hair bow, some accessories and black sandals. It's summer, so this style really rocks. A little chilly? That's what the jacket is for! I think it really goes well and you can substitute that for any sort of jacket but blue complements the top.

Just in case you can't see it. These garments are from www.boohoo.com - Acid wash jacket £20, Cropped Top £5 and Skater Skirt £15.

Beauty: Foundation and Concealer

Beauty: Foundation and Concealer 

What is concealer and how do I use it?

Concealers cover scars, dark areas and even out the complexion. The concealer you choose should be one shade lighter than your own.

Can I use concealer without foundation?

Hell no. The name for that is raccoon eyes, shame on you! What are you going to blend it in with? Your skin?

How do I avoid bad looking concealer?

Bad looking concealer usually comes when concealer is too heavy and not blended properly.

How do I choose the right foundation?

Choosing the right one defines your whole look, choosing the wrong one changes it completely. Liquid foundations provide a natural look. It really is trial and error but try and pick something close to your skin colour.

Mewze!

Now, I could have been a selfish blogger and kept this amazing website to myself but my love for my readers told me to share it with you!

INTRODUCTING MEWZE!

Mewze is a website based in the USA that turns your sketches into real garments! Why is this good news? Less work for us fashion artists who are still reading the complete all you need to know about sewing! 

LAUREN ARE YOU FOR REAL? HOW DOES IT WORK?

For designers: 

1. Sketch and submit as many designs as you like! 
2. Promote your designs and get as many people as you can to vote for you.
3. If your design is chosen then a sample will be made to ensure that you are happy with it.
4. They produce the design!
5. They sell your designs and you make money! 

For others:

1. Vote for your favourite designs, you may vote for as many as you want. 5 lucky voters will be chosen to win some great prizes.
2. Promote your favourite designs 
3. Order, recieve your dress and enjoy!

It's an amazing opportunity and I surely will be taking part! Who's up for it?! 

My recent interest in still life!

I live 5 minutes away from a library and I've been living 4 years at that address and had never been in there. So today I took a trip down there and registered and went straight to the art department. I couldn't find many books on fashion illustration but I did pick one entitled "Draw like an expert in 15 easy lessons". After doing the lessons I can say that the title is legit. It works! 

Credit: Amazon

I got home and started reading the book and focused on the first lesson: Still life - household objects. I must say I really had no clue about still life but just by following the instructions I created something I never thought I could and i'm so proud of myself!

Book Review: A Fashion History of the 20th Century by The Kyoto Costume Institute

When I'm not blogging I'm reading this awesome book on the history of fashion in the 20th century and I decided to do a blog post/review on it so you guys may be interested to read it too. The book was a gift from my Aunty for my 14th Birthday who teaches Fashion and Textiles in Milton Keynes.

It doesn't have a specific Author but it's by the Kyoto Costume Institute and It's obviously non fiction. The book was very interesting and was definitely informative. It starts off like this "A persons clothing, whether it's a sari, Kimono or Business suit, is an essential key to his or her culture, class, personality or even religion" 

My favourite thing about the book is that it's really educational, I found out things so obvious that I didn't know. Also with trends changing all the time people tend to forget about the fashion in the past and focus on the future and whats trending now. So the book really does take you back. 

My least favourite thing would be how they would list a really nice garment and not know the designer meaning we can't research into his or her work.

Interviews

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Above is the link for bloglovin so please follow!
In my last post I interviewed Harriett. If you would like to be interviewed please contact me!

Lauren x

Interviewing Harriett - Fashionable scribbles

Hi guys, I had a great chance to interview Harriett from Fashionable scribbles, who runs a great blog on fashion art. 

1. When did you start fashion illustration?

Hmm I started when I was 11 years old. Then I didn't know what I was doing was called fashion illustration lol.

2. How has your practice and work developed over time?

I must say it definitely has changed a lot over the years. I started off with just tracing figures my teacher gave me and drawing clothes I had seen on TV, magazines or just clothes I thought of that might look nice together. I have always been afraid of adding colour to my artwork as I was afraid I would ruin what I have drawn. Now, I love the idea of adding colour to my work and now my illustrations look more professional than they were 3-4 years ago.

3.  What materials do you use for your art work?

I use any mechanical pencil because they are thin and don't smudge everywhere, my Derwent sketch book, 30cm ruler, a rubber, a watercolour pad, watercolour paint, colouring pencils, a stabilo fineliner and paint brushes.

4. How do you get your ideas for illustrations and designs?

It's weird, they just come to me. I'm not one to look at nature and suddenly come up with an idea.... not that it's not a great process. Just not for me. I look at magazines, Pinterest and Instagram for my inspiration. I pick an outfit, draw it and think what I can add to it to make it different. I sometimes, take things off like a long sleeve and swap it for a lace sleeve with an underlining material such as beige for example. 

5. What do you dislike about your work?

Hmm I dislike how I can't paint like some artists I know on Instagram who are amazing.

6. Who is your favourite artist?

I have many, but my top 3 has got to be; Bil Dovan, Veronica March and Holly Nicholson (on Instagram)

7.  What's the best thing about being an artist?

The fact that your work can never be wrong. Everyone is always looking for something fresh and new, something that a past artist never thought of. There is no right or wrong way of drawing or painting. I mean okay, the way we are taught to draw in school is the most common way but that does not mean it is the only way. Take Picasso for example, he used shapes to replace our facial features. Smart thinking.

8. Any advice to the upcoming fashion illustrators starting out?

Don't give up! Try different medias, draw everyday if you can and maybe send your work to some illustrators online, like on Instagram. I know a few who are happy to meet aspiring illustrators and would love to look at your work. 

Thank you so much to Harriett for letting me interview her, it was lots of fun. 

Visit her blog here at http://fashionablescribbles.blogspot.co.uk/

Blog update

Recently i've become obsessed with widgets that you can add for blogger therefore i'm going to try and put some in although I suck with coding :/. So if the posts don't come today just know i'm fiddling around with the layout.

Lauren x

Artist Opportunity

Looking for places to showcase your work?

I was contacted on twitter by @Artisticallys (Artistically social) who were looking for artists to from the fashion industry to feature on their upcoming website. Don't miss a good opportunity to showcase your work!

http://www.artisticallysocial.com/blog/

Black hair corner: Black hair care part 2 --------> Tips

Hi guys! My last post on styles to do with your afro-caribbean hair had a lot of views! So guess what i'm doing another one on hair care! 

The icky boring stuff:

The way black hair is makes it unique in comparison with other types hair. It happens to be naturally dry and vulnerable to breakage. When chemically relaxed, it gets even more difficult to stay in good health. A lot of black women experience damage and loss of hair which will keep the hair from growing longer.

So these are my top tips for looking after your hair:

- No matter how ridiculous it looks, nobody sees you when going to bed so cover your hair with some sort of material (preferably satin)

-Weekly deep conditioning helps your hair grow and adds nutrients, it prevents damage and breakage and improves its elasticity and also keeps it smooth and shiny. 

- Always use a comb for detangling and if possible detangling cream/spray. 

- Your hairline is extremely valuable so look after it. If there's no front to your hair, what possibly are you going to do with it?

• Do not use harsh gels to smooth it down when having braids in. Yes use gels but recognize when the gel is hard and sticky and making your hair feel crispy. 
• To slick your edges down use a toothbrush 
• Use the most natural hair products you can find. 

Below i've embedded a youtube video on how to care for your hair, enjoy x

video by: signatureseries

Bored of your afro caribbean hair? Things to do with it!

Hi guys, this is actually another post for my black hair corner since I haven't posted on there in a while. I know I certainly get bored of my braids sometimes but the good thing with having Afro-Caribbean hair is that there is a million and one ways to change it up! So keep reading to find out!

You might be like me and love to have your hair in extensions because it's easy and stress free. Here are different types of braids you can try:

1. Box Braids 

Box braids are extremely protective however your hair will break if you don't look after it like most extensions. I've been rocking this style for a while and I absolutely love it! However I'm changing to crotchet braids so farewell box braids! I loved having them, what I really liked about them was literally any style was possible especially because I had long braids. 

2. Crotchet Braids 

Crotchet braids are my new craze, I discovered them when looking for something new to do to my hair and decided to write this post. They aren't full braids, that is why I like them. They look really good. I want to do for the short ones however long also look good. 

Picture credit: Pinterest

3. Pick and drop braids 

This is another braids style however I stopped doing pick and drop because it was getting old and no one was doing it anymore therefore I stopped (Don't wanna be stuck in the stone age do we?) However you might like to do it. 

hairmillionaire.blogspot.co.uk

4. Poetic Justice braids/Jumbo box braids

Poetic Justice braids are the big version of box braids. I've always wanted to do this hairstyle but I'm afraid that I won't be able to take the heaviness. The first time I got normal box braids I was finding it heavy so I don't think I'll be able to cope with these lol! It is a protective hairstyle however you wanna watch the pulling and tug force when styling it. No need to style actually, these braids look beautiful down as well as up.

Pinterest

5. Micro Braids 

Micro braids are really small braids. This will cost you a lot to braid because it takes long, you'll get tired! It's all worth the style lol.

Pinterest

6. Yarn Braids

It's literally what you see... Braids made out of yarn. 

Pinterest

Types of twists: 

1. Havana Twists/Marley Twists (Both the same things but have different names)

Havana Twists are the big version of Senegalese twists. I adore them and they're so beautiful but can you handle the weight? 

Pinterest

2. Senegalese Twists

I've had Senegalese twists before and they rock! However to do the good styles you need to do your twists long which means sitting down for longer and raising the cost! 

herhairpin.com

3. Kenkey Twists 

We Ghanaians call it Kenkey twist however some people may know it as another thing. It's a puffy kind of twist that looks nice when it's short. My mum does this quite a lot.

committogrow.com

Those are my hairstyles for extensions!

Lauren

LOOKING FOR A HAIR AND BEAUTY BLOGGER.

Hi everyone this a short post! I'm looking for a hair, makeup and beauty blogger because I don't have much knowledge on those areas! I would really like to start having some of that content up on here so please, please!!!!!! Anyone? You might be reading this and have no clue about it however you might know someone who does... if you're interested comment below because it's rather urgent!

Lauren x

My recent activity!

Hi guys, of late i've been watching Victoria Secret fashion shows because they have become a source of inspiration for me! Can't wait for the 2014 show to come out. I absolutely adore the designs and creativity that can be put into a small piece of lingerie.

Lauren x

Liebster Award

Hi everyone, I am back from Luton and back in East London! Big thank you to Harriett for nominating me for the Liebster award! I had never heard of it before so Thanks to Harriett for letting me know! Check out her wonderful blog - http://fashionablescribbles.blogspot.co.uk/

You qualify for a Liebster award if you have less than 200 followers, you meet new bloggers and get a little known. To get the Liebster award there are a few things you must do:

- Write 11 random facts about yourself
- Answer the 11 questions that the awarding blogger has given to you
- Nominate 11 bloggers who have 200 or less followers and link them in your post
- Let the blogger know you have nominated them
- No Tag backs

11 Random facts about me!

1. I am Africa obsessed, I LOVE anything African especially the music.
2. I have a big crush on Wizkid.
3. I like black pens.
4. I speak French, German, Twi and English
5. My favourite colour is purple.
6. Can't stand Nicki Minaj. Ew.
7. I love cheese
8. Addicted to Twitter and Instagram.
9. I can't ride a bike.
10. I'm an expert in photo editing.
11. I love singing.

Harriett's Questions:

1. Heels or flats?

• I am defo for heels.

2. Sweets or chocolate? Why?

• I find chocolate more filling than sweets.

3. Who influenced you to start a blog?

• Zyra Banez - LoveTheart Fashion

4. How has your blogging experience been so far?

• Totally topsy turvy but overall i've loved it.

5. Do you have any other hobbies other than blogging?

• Yes! I love to sing!

6. What's your favourite colour?

• My favourite colour is purple.

7. Where are you from?

• Ghana all the way! British born of Ghanaian decent. 

8. What country would you like to visit the most? 

• It's got to be Nigeria

9. Describe yourself in 3 words?

• Creative, funny and musical

10. What's your dream job:

• Easy - A fashion designer. 

My nominees: (Couldn't find 11)

Lisa Jasmin - http://www.dearfashion.de/

Dilara - http://fashionablefantasies.blogspot.co.uk/

Katie - http://www.katievibes.com/

Alexa - http://www.missrosieo.com/

My questions:

1. Do you wear makeup?

2. What's your dream job?

3. What's your favourite song currently? 

4. What's your favourite colour?

5. Why did you start blogging?

6. Who is your favourite designer and why?

7. Who is your role model and why?

8. Do you have any pets?

9. What do you think makes a successful blog?

10. Who is your favourite artist?

11. Chicken or fish?

That's it! I didn't mention 11 bloggers because I couldn't find 11 so if you'd like to be nominated comment below x

Lauren x

My Luton Holiday!

Hi, everyone right now I'm in a total different scenery and I'm right outside of London with my Aunty in Luton!

Coming here I was worrying about WiFi and connections, turns out they have better connection than us in London.

Anyway, i'll be back in London to shoot the first vlog and also do a blogpost on the Liebster award. I'll explain more about it later. A big thanks to Harriett for nominating me!
I want to do an intro video and then do another vlog on something you guys would like, maybe an faq? However an FAQ can't be done without questions! So if you would like that comment with some questions and if you want something else comment on the post!

If I don't post again today, my next post will be tomorrow.

Thanks for reading luvlees!

Lauren x

My first Vlog

Hi guys!

I've finally got decent camera equipment and I can start doing vlogs! I'm mighty nervous about doing them so the first blog is going to be an intro! Hopefully it comes out today or tomorrow! 

Lauren x

Drawing preparation

Hi guys, I hope everyone is good! I got today's blog title from a really good blog generator. It's a great topic and i'll be showing you my ways of preparing before I draw. 

Disclaimer: This is only my way, you may have yours and prefer to do it a different way. This is not the right or only way.

1. Inspiration

Usually before I draw, I don't know what I'm going to draw. So I get my inspiration and this usually is on my tablet, I'd search on my social networks especially pinterest and find ideas. 

2. Equipment 

I decide what media i'll be using before I Draw and ink because I can't get every media I have out. So if I am using my markers then I bring them out and etc. One thing that I do always have out are my gel pens, fine liners, pencils and erasers, bleedproof paper and colouring pencils. 

3. Mood 

Your mood can affect the way you draw very much. I like to be in a good mood so I put on music that I like. I draw and concentrate to music which can also be a source of inspiration.

That's it! Not much but I'm not a complicated person

History of Fashion : 20th century

No post for 8 days! Hi Guys, I am back! Where did I go? I went to stay with some family for a week in the middle of no where with bad connection and no WiFi meaning no blogging. However I am going to make up for those 8 days I have missed. Today's post will be on a little research I have done about fashion in the 20th Century. The post about historical fashion is currently the most viewed post on this blog therefore I thought you guys would like to read more. It is very long so i'll be doing this post in different parts at different times.

The influence of Haute Couture.

World War 1 had messed up the old social systems, society changed and so did their look. More and more people were categorized as middle class and they bought a new lifestyle because they weren't sitting at home anymore and had to fill in for the men and they discovered clothes that were comfortable to work in, instead of the corset. During this time the media systems were new and they spread news about the Parisian haute couture.

The S-curve silhouette became popular around the 1900's. This dress was made with materials such as chiffon and charmeuse.

Irish Crochet lace was knitted by hand. It originates from italian needlepoint lace in the 17th century.

Arts Award Silver - Plan

This summer one of the things i'll be completing is my second Arts Award. I've decided to share my plan with you!

Unit 1 (Part A) - Arts Practice. 

To pass you need:

• Active participation in any art form
• Attendance of at least 2 arts events
• Research a hero

Chosen Arts Practice: Fashion Illustration/Fashion Design/Fashion

Steps of arts practice:

• Drawing 10 new dresses and 2 international dresses
• Making (designing dresses)
• Styling - Styling people and putting together a fashion show

What I hope to achieve by the end of the award:

A silver arts award and some new creations to add to my portfolio

Strengths; Creativity, Fashionable language, The history of fashion, using markers 
Weaknesses; Creating dresses, Creating depth and ''realness'' in drawings and using a variety of media.

Unit 1 (Part B): The action Plan
Targets:

• To be able to create depth in drawings 
• To be able to use different media

Progress Monitor: I'll have a targets checklist and peers to monitor them

Sharing work: On my blog of course! 

How will you record your progress and maintain your personal portfolio?

I'm recording it by regular updates on my blog and also a paper copy. I already have a portfolio and find it very easy to maintain one.

Week 1: Drawing the new dresses and video review of the dresses. 

Week 2: Video review of art materials and art work space.

Week 3: Tutorials

Week 4: Styling and Fashion Show

Week 5 and 6: Creating a garment 

Unit 1(Part C) - Planning an arts event 

• A visit to the FTM and a review with pictures.
• A visit to a fashion show and a review with pictures.
• A brochure and information about the event.
• Research into future opportunities and career pathways 

That's the end of unit 1! Unit 2 coming soon!

Laurey x