Bonjour Londres! Where To Find the Best of Paris in London

Because, if you can't be a Parisenne, you can be a fake French-Londoner, sans beret.

London truly has it all. And that even means a little bit of Paris too. The city of romance is full of charm, history, tradition, amazing food, fashion, wine - the list is endless. Paris is certainly fetishised through the lens of Instagram, and has its flaws of being dirty and expensive, but the city somehow remains magical despite all its faults. And in a world obsessed with perfectionism, isn't that part of the charm?

The Red Jumper

The best jumpers are like rich mince pies, a warm bed on a Sunday morning and taking your bra off after a long day: pure comfort. When I spotted this knitted red jumper hiding in the corner of my local Zara, with its oversized shape and pretty bow at the back, it seemed only courtesy to take it in my arms and give it a home.

And when better to adorn yourself in red than the festive season? You can surely count on us bloggers to get you into the Christmas spirit with our vlogmases, advent calendar openings on Instagram stories and lengthy gift guides.

The White Shirt

Classic wardrobe pieces are classic for a reason. They work in any outfit and for every season. And a white shirt is exactly the kind of piece I'm living in right now. Though, I do admit, these photos were taken a little while ago as these days you'd struggle to find me amidst a bundle of layers and one too many scarves.

Chiltern Firehouse, Marylebone

It's no secret that I am a bonafide lover of Marylebone. And if you happen to follow me on Instagram, you'll more often than not see my frizzy hair and wide-toothed grin sitting gingerly at Chiltern Firehouse, a luxury boutique hotel down the ever-stylish Chiltern Street.

To catch a seat in the restaurant is near enough to impossible (Sienna Miller's and Princess Eugenie's clan seem to take up all the reservations), but the dreamy, cosy and undeniably chic courtyard is just as nice, if not better due to its intimacy and twinkling lights.

If you're not in full Christmas mode just yet (I'm a little disappointed in you though, I'll admit), then the cobbled courtyard is just your place. With it's black and white seats and awning, a roaring fireplace and dappled waiters in waistcoats, this charming spot tucked away from the bustle of the city is straight out of a New York fairytale. 

Black and White, Marylebone

Hello, hello ladies. It's been a crazy month cracking on with my university work but now that's all completed, you'll be seeing a lot more of me on here (feel free to boo or cheer.) 

November greeted us Londoners with the most bittersweet chill. A chill so cold that my skin has glued itself to this fluffy Mango coat, making me permanently resemble a polar bear. I've shared this faux fur number numerous times, and it wasn't until today that I realised I always style it in the same way (case in point here and here.) So while I wish I was showing you all something uniquely inspiring and revolutionary today, it's safe to say my style, still a year later, is pretty simple, understated and well, monochrome. So here's to more noir et blanc...

The Secret Parisian Gallery, Mayfair

Dreaming of an autumnal escape to Paris? Can't stop thinking about strolling around the Jardin des Tulieries, post-espresso and pre-Sezane shop? Ain't we all. But if, like me, your hometown ties are reigning you in and a Eurostar ticket is out of reach, there's a little pocket of Paris in Mayfair that can substitute for the meantime.

Monocle Café, Marylebone

Just past the luxury independent boutiques that line Chiltern Street, Marylebone, you'll find Monocle Café sitting proudly under the rust brick. A spin-off of Monocle, a global affairs and lifestyle magazine, this compact café is a cosy corner to read, work or relax. And in today's fast-paced world, where better to slow down than in here?

Today Marks Seven

Yes - today marks seven years of blogging. And, yes, I really did begin this blog at the age of 12! When a colleague of mine raised this to my attention just recently, that at such a young age I knew already that I loved style and travel and loved to share it, I realised something. I genuinely have always adored fashion, and I have only my Nan to blame for endlessly buying me pink silk dresses when I was incredibly young to blame. It just so happened that at the age of 12, the idea of being a journalist or 'blogger' - a term just becoming known as a career or full-time hobby rather than a questionable online diary - ignited within me.

A Winter Guide to Zermatt

Zermatt, a small charming village in the heart of the Swiss Alps plays host to some of the best skiing in the world. With the Matterhorn sitting proudly like a king high above, unique ski areas offering a challenge to all levels of skiers and snowboarders and Michelin-starred restaurants on the slopes, it's not hard to understand why this winter resort is loved by so many. Beyond skiing, there is plenty of adventure to be had from winter hiking to paragliding. And with the winter season soon approaching, there seems no better time to write a complete guide on where best to stay, ski, eat, dance and drink.

I am by no means an expert on Zermatt but considering I've been going almost every year (mostly during summer, I'll admit) since I was born, I certainly know a thing or two on what's good. Zermatt is the most beautiful town I've ever seen, and everything you can expect from a winter resort with chocolate-box chalets, breathtaking views, Swiss fine-dining, all topped off with iridescent, powdery snow. I love hiking here in the summer, but Zermatt certainly comes to life in the colder months, with so much to offer in every possible way.

If you're all booked up or still considering a winter adventure to Zermatt, follow me.

Where to See the Best of Autumn in London

F. Scott Fitzgerald wasn't one to mince his words. And his famous quote, "life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall," is most true when exploring the city of London. Tourists flee back home and nature's true golden colours finally shine through. Us city-dwellers love the frosty mornings and crisp afternoons, and welcome in the arrival of conkers, log-fires and mince pies. It's a true spectacle and one I'm sure you're happy to witness as much as me.

I've put together a list of pockets in London in which best to see the capital in its most picturesque form. Whether you're a Londoner in search of seeing the best of the city, or a tourist wanting to snap the perfect autumnal Instagram, there's an area here for everyone to enjoy. Just keep a brolly at hand...

26 Grains, Covent Garden

Though undoubtedly trendy, 26 Grains in Neal's Yard, Covent Garden, still manages to be unassuming and welcoming. There are few foodie hubs in London that put good food before style and aesthetic (here's looking at you Farm Girl), so when testing out one of the city's most instagrammed, I was pleasantly surprised.

And where better to kick-start your weekend than somewhere that is infamous for its delicious porridge? Count me in!

The Cashmere

It's hardly revolutionary or rebellious to talk about a cashmere jumper. It's a classic item that can be found in our grandmother's wardrobes, and is still worn by our favourite Parisian icons today, updated with Levis denim and Chanel ballet pumps.

As a lover of all things classic, high-quality and anything warm and fluffy, I've been on the hunt for a delicate swathe of cashmere to envelop myself in for some time. It's a fabric you must invest in and so a process of elimination around the shops is necessary. And after quite some time, I'm content to reveal Marks and Spencer simply do the best. I know, welcome to my forty-year-old inner-self.

Sundays At Columbia Road

Excuse the hyperbole, but Sundays in London are the best. It's almost as if the city workers, bankers and businessmen stay in bed all day for all of the young families, artists and creatives to roam free around the city. It's the day where food and flower markets lure us out of the warmth with their bittersweet smells and the perfect time to explore somewhere new in the capital's quiet charm.

I usually work on weekends, but I made sure to book a couple of Sundays off come September (my favourite month in London - goodbye tourists and hello autumnal colours!) to enjoy the city I call home. Since Columbia Road Flower Market only runs on Sunday mornings, we headed to Bethnal Green bright and early to grab the freshest bunch.

Here We Are, Burberry

"They provide a portrait of British life, in all its nuances, both exceptional and mundane, beautiful and harsh," said Christopher Bailey, Chief Creative Executive Officer of Burberry on the many beautiful photographs housed in the Here We Are exhibition. Featuring over 200 works by photographers Alasdair McLellan, Dafydd Jones, Bill Brandt, Brian Griffin, Shirley Baker, Jane Bown, Martin Parr, Jo Spence, Ken Russell, Charlie Phillips, Karen Knorr, Janette Beckman and Andy Sewell, the exhibition is a celebration of British life and reveals the inspiration behind the latest Burberry collection.

On an Indian summer Sunday, my sister and I headed to Old Sessions House in Clerkenwell, the site of the exhibition, to dose ourselves up on art and culture. Isn't that what weekends are for?

TOMMYXGIGI AT LONDON FASHION WEEK

There are definitely a few perks that come with studying Fashion Journalism in London. And often that means invites into fun, exclusive events (but sadly no free Chanel handbags...damn). On Tuesday evening, my course-mates and I were allowed special access into the Tommy Hilfiger after party, the closing show of London Fashion Week.

Morty and Bob's, London Fields

The east end of town always favours quirky, off-the-beaten path spaces. Nothing is glamourous, too clean or pretty, in fact it can often be a little grimy. But that's part of the charm of the newly-gentrified areas of Hackney, Dalston and London Fields. They're flooded with young businessmen and creatives, and its bohemian inhabitants are what shepherd in a wave of beatnik cafés, restaurants and creative spaces. So I guess you could say this is where all the "cool stuff" is. 

On a sunny but slow Sunday afternoon, my friend Sarah and I headed to Morty and Bob's upon the news that Palm Vaults was closed for the week (we've been trying to go for ages!). But if we knew just how good this place was, we would have headed here first. A spot like this should never settle for second best.

The Birkin Bag

Not the Hermès, before you get all excited. I'm talking about the original Provencal basket.

Though Birkin, wife of Serge Gainsbourg, was British by birth she was Parisian by style, attitude and strong personality. Always with a basket in hand, she has become a true icon for all of those who admire an effortless 'cool-girl' style.

In an attempt to release my inner Birkin, this straw bag from Zara (sadly not a basket, but I can pretend it as such but sticking the odd baguette inside), has rarely left my side since its purchase.

(The Last of) Summer In The City

A floral dress for summer. Groundbreaking.

But considering the sunshine season, complete with evening walks in the park and al fresco dining, visits London so rarely, the need to make the most of it is imperative. After a week of rain, I was ready to slip into something wholeheartedly summery and loose.

2018 Travels: Five Places On My List

Positano, Amalfi, Italy

Travelling is the only thing I'm happy to admit I'm greedy about. Sure, pancakes and pizza make the list too, but there's something about travelling that makes me commit all the deadly sins. I lust after every place I read in Condé Nast Traveller, become greedy by booking more and more every year and take supreme pride in making each of my holidays the most perfect they can be. Yet, I'm still not ashamed. Travel enables us to escape, experience and learn so much. We can leave winter at home and arrive in the height of summer. We can learn a new language, swim in unknown waters, walk along untouched sand and learn about endangered wildlife.

And does anyone else ever get that feeling of impatience and restlessness when it comes to travel? Once one is over, we're thinking of the next, in a never-ending cycle of researching, booking or preparing for holidays. There's almost a frightened feeling that nestles itself within me that I will never be able to see all of what Earth has to offer, all of what I want to see, smell, touch and taste in the world.

So with the summer of 2017 wrapped up and London in full autumn swing, I'm fervently planning 2018 travels. Some of these that made the list have been on my 'must-visit' for years, but I finally think next year is the time to go.

Pancakes and Bali Bowls, Amsterdam

It is a truth universally acknowledged that it will rain in Amsterdam during some point of your visit. 

Be it a day long downpour or a passing shower, however, you'll still find yourself relishing in all of that the city has to offer.

We found ourselves relishing in breakfast.

Cycling Through Vondelpark, Amsterdam

When in Amsterdam, do as the Dutch do!

So in true Dutch style, we hired bikes and took a spin through Vondelpark, the 'Hyde Park' of Amsterdam (but most certainly nicer by my opinion!).

Exploring Jordaan, Amsterdam

I must confess, Amsterdam was never part of my bucketlist of places to visit, until now..

When my sister mentioned a trip a few years back, the immediate thought of "coffeeshops", stag do's and other unmentionable things sprang to mind. No thank you.

However, after reading a few too many blog posts with a not bad word said against it, and Alice, a work colleague of mine, suggesting her and I go, we booked a flight immediately (sorry Jess, next year!). It is a 45 minute flight after all!

Into the Wilderness, Zermatt

There is not one hike in Zermatt that isn't worth walking. The crisp mountain air, the sound of the crickets buzzing in the midst of the alpine flora and the awe-inspiring views can be experienced from any angle. 

But if you want the real thrill of adventure, then fly on the cable car up to Shwarzee.

Sundays in Zermatt

Sundays in Zermatt are a relaxed affair. 

The town comes alive and oozes with atmosphere on Friday and Saturday nights but come Sunday, everything is a little snoozy. 

Swiss Day Festivities, Zermatt

The First of August in Switzerland is a pretty big deal. After all, it happens to mark the country's birthday!

The quiet little town booms with atmosphere in the evening, with crowds of locals and tourists coming together (in the name of beer, might I add) to celebrate.

Waking up bright and early, we started the day by catching the cable car up to Furi.

Lunch at Cervo, Zermatt

Cervo in Zermatt, Switzerland, is quite like no other.

A boutique mountain resort perched just above the town, overlooking the Matterhorn. This hotel is the stuff of dreams and the perfect package for families, couples and adventurers alike. Though we always stay in our home-from-home of Parkhotel Beau Site, we always make sure to pop by to Cervo for lunch. Unsurprisingly, this year was no different.

Visiting Audrey Hepburn, Lake Geneva

This probably has to be my favourite and most special blog post yet. Anyone who truly knows me is more than aware of my adoration for Audrey Hepburn.

On our annual family trip to Zermatt, Switzerland, we usually take four-hours worth of trains to get there. But upon realising hiring a car was not only a shorter journey, but a cheaper one too, we buckled in and saddled up ready for a roadtrip around Lake Geneva to Zermatt. I knew that Audrey's home, La Paisible, was located in Morges on Lake Geneva which just happened to be in the middle of the route. So, I begged my family to take a quick detour for me to see it -it's any Hepburn fan's Mecca after all.

Cacti Heaven, Barcelona

The best sights in any city, in my opinion, are those that steer well clear of the tourists. Off-the-beaten-track gems, cultural spaces and undiscovered landmarks that you get to enjoy all by yourself are just as worthy of seeing than any Eiffel Tower or Buckingham Palace.

A Barcelona cactus garden probably doesn't seem like much of an exciting, must-see thrill, but it is a fun botanical highlight that will teach you plenty about Spanish flora and treat you to a beautiful view over Barceloneta Beach and the harbour. 

But first, breakfast baby.

Surf House, Barcelona

My favourite day of every trip is always the beach day.

We strip off into barely-there bikinis, bathe in the tropical sunlight and listen to the sound of waves echoing in the distance.

But all beach days begin with a good breakfast feast.

Gaudi, Gallito's and Poolside Drinks, Barcelona

In comparison to London, Barcelona seems a lot smaller in size.

You can get from the heart of the city to the beach in a matter of a few minutes, but getting from West to East in London will take you nearly half an hour.

On our second day in the city of sunshine, it's safe to say we took advantage of this and packed in a lot.

Sightseeing in Barcelona

Barcelona is one my all time favourite cities. With amazing shopping, food, sightseeing, architecture and the beach all on offer, it's not hard to understand why. 

Abandoning our luggage in the hotel, we headed straight to Lulu's in El Born.

One Fire Beach and Sunset Cocktails, Amalfi

There's nothing quite like being in the open sea, is there? It's so much more open, wild and free than a pool. You suddenly realise how small and vulnerable you are in such a big world, in such a big sea. 

On our last day along the magical Amalfi Coast, we headed to Praiano for a splash, dive and a swim in the Mediterranean waters. We grabbed our towels, fetched a punnet of fresh Italian strawberries and hopped on the bus from Sorrento.

Exploring Positano

Positano is quite simply one of the most beautiful and extraordinary villages I have ever visited. 

Colourful buildings, bewilderingly perched on the side of the cliff, cascade down towards the open sea, where another myriad of colours from the umbrellas line up one by one facing the shore. It's peaceful, charming and utterly postcard-perfect. 

Waking up sharp, bright and early, we caught the bus to Positano from Sorrento.

Trattoria da Emilia, Sorrento

One of the most magical moments in a day is sunset.

Some are so beautiful that not even the strongest of words can quite describe the phenomenon before our eyes.

The sunset in Sorrento, however, is quite literally the best I've ever seen. The sun drowns and disappears into the endless sea, dispersing colours of peach, orange, red and indigo into the faded blue of the sky. After seeing it on our very first night, we decided to make the most of it by having dinner at one of Sorrento's best-known restaurants by the sea.

Jetting to Capri and the Grotto Azzurra

If I had a penny for every Instagram photo I've ever seen of Capri, I'd be one rich woman.

But, now I get it. The rocky island of Capri, located just off of the bay of Naples, is the most picturesque, classy and oh so glamorous place one could quite possibly visit in the world. 

On our third day along the Amalfi Coast, we jetted to this Italian paradise.

Eating Under Lemon Trees, Sorrento

On your upcoming trip to to Sorrento (that one you're planning in the very back of your mind after seeing this), you'll want somewhere lovely to go out for a long dinner.

Well I know just the place. 

It's tucked away in a rustic courtyard where lemon trees sprout in between tables and where local Italian music dances into guests' ears while they sip on the very best wine. Jess and I headed to this rather dreamy place on our second evening in Sorrento. But first, a beach day was to be had.

A Summer Sojourn to Sorrento

Until this trip, I've never had the pleasure of visiting Italy. A Roman holiday always sounded delightful and a romantic trip to Florence was worthy of a dream. But finally I had the chance to experience the true Italian dolce vita with a whirlwind trip to the Amalfi Coast with my sister.

Italy most certainly lived up to all of my expectations - endless gelato, spaghetti, fresh wine and eternal sunshine. I'd be lying to say the trip wasn't truly perfect from beginning to end.

For now, let's dive into our first day. 

A New Chapter

It's been a while, hasn't it.

Truth is, I almost considered giving up this blog. It no longer gave me the enjoyment it once did, I had no enthusiasm to post and I got too busy with life that it had taken a backseat - so, in other words, I lost all hope.

I endlessly questioned myself as to whether I wanted to throw away seven years of blogging, or if perhaps it was merely a previous chapter in my life that I had to accept and say goodbye to. It was only after travelling to the Amalfi Coast in Italy recently that I came back refreshed, re-energised and with a fresh passion to share my travel adventures with you all.

But, ATF won't be the same as it used to be. For now, I wish to turn it into more of a notebook of sorts to keep a track of my wanderings. So things will be pretty light-hearted, casual and personal. I used to put so much pressure on myself to regularly update and churn out content that I was no longer producing things I enjoyed. I'll be posting similar content but with more flair, personality and insight into who I am.

I'm also considering a new name! ATF has had its day I think, and in order to keep myself motivated and grow this blog into what I now want it to be, I think some things need shaking up. And the name I feel is the first on the list. I have a few ideas up my sleeve already!

So, let's catch up!

I've now officially finished my first year of university! Woooo. While it has absolutely flown by, it does seem longer than a year ago that I left school, but time is always such a confusing concept to me. I am so grateful to be attending The London College of Fashion and to be earning a degree in something I always dreamt of studying. I've met some pretty awesome peeps along the way and have learnt lots of new, incredible skills.

Summer has officially commenced, and while things got off to shaky start with the ending of a relationship of mine, I'm now happier than ever with a summer filled with exciting travels. Last week, my sister and I travelled to the beautiful Amalfi Coast in Italy for all the gelato, pizza, sun, sea and wine we could get. Sounds bliss, doesn't it. Well, I'm already editing photos and writing bits about my experience to share with you all so stay tuned. Next up, I'm off to Barcelona with my best friend mid-July, and then Zermatt in Switzerland with family and lastly a quick trip to Amsterdam with a work colleague/ very good friend of mine.

Cheers to new beginnings and what I hope will be an exciting, fun-filled summer for us all! Best wishes.

Brunch at Tom Tom's, Belgravia

"Let there be brunch!" - declared everyone who has ever delved into the world of the late-breakfast, early-lunch delight.

Quite simply, there's nothing better.

On an unusually sunny day in London, my old school pals and I got together in Belgravia for a round of alfresco brunch at Tom Tom's. 

Easter at Kew

I come from a long line of nature lovers in my family.

Every year we spend our summers in Zermatt, Switzerland to gaze at the majestic mountains, exotic alpine flora and wild animals. Add to that the fresh, clean air and that mighty Matterhorn view and you can probably picture quite the postcard perfect scene.

So it's quite a wonder as to why we don't always make the most of the natural beauty that's on our doorstep. Thus, for Easter, we headed to Kew Gardens for a dose of all things flora and fauna (though sadly, I don't think anything can compete with my precious Zermatt).

Press For Champagne, Bob Bob Ricard

It's a truth universally acknowledged that champagne on your birthday is mandatory.

Naturally, to follow this cardinal rule and to celebrate my 19th birthday in style, my sister and I headed to Soho's iconic English-Russian restaurant Bob Bob Ricard for a glass of bubbly. 

A Birthday in Bath Part 2

I fell head over heels for the Georgian architecture in Bath. Symmetrical, weathered and classically simple, Bath is saturated with picturesque architecture in every corner. So on our second day we headed out into the cold to feast our eyes on just that. 

A Birthday in Bath Part 1

Surprisingly, I've seen very little of the UK. I know London like the back of my hand, where I live (just outside central London) I also know pretty well, and throw a bit of the southern coast in there too. However, apart from these few places, I've seen little more. So, in a bid to do and see something different for my mine and mother's birthdays, we drove to Bath for a very British weekend away.

Hey Spring!

It's March. It's spring. And I'm finally back with a new blog post! I've been a little quiet over the past month due to university work and celebrating my birthday, but I'm returning with lots of fun content to share.

First up, we have this beautiful backless bow bodysuit from Topshop I bought a few weeks ago. It's the prettiest thing and works fabulously for both day and night. But it was my go-to top of choice on a spring day exploring...and hey, it was almost 18'C which is practically summer in London if you ask me.

A Breakfast in the Sky

You know that feeling when you're headed out and you know it's going to be awesome?

That's exactly how my sister and I felt when we skyrocketed ourselves to the Darwin Brasserie in the 'Walkie Talkie' building, a few weeks back.

The Motorcycle Jacket

I had hoped my expensive love affair with jackets and coats was venturing towards another hiatus with spring just around the corner.

But then I saw this guy.

In buttery, charcoal black, faux suede with silky fur lining, all toughened up with silver zips and a belt, I couldn't resist this Zara purchase. But when can I ever resist a good, classic coat?

A Notting Hill Brunch

Brunch anywhere is a good idea, but in Notting Hill, it's always extra special.

There are plenty of options for a good brunch in this West London neighborhood, such as Egg Break, Farmacy, Bodyism or Granger & Co.

But Farm Girl is forever a go-to choice with it's Liquid Gold Tea, Pumpkin Porridge and Coconut BLT sandwich.

The Faux Fur Coat, Shoreditch

It must seem that I begin every blog post with an anecdote about the weather, but it's seriously bitter here in London this winter. I know, it's nothing compared to the blustery snowstorms of Iceland or the arctic winds of Norway, but I quite literally turn into an icecube in any temperature below 10 degrees.

So naturally my fluffy Mango coat has been my best friend.

And it was the perfect winter warmer for a blogger coffee date of shooting with the wonderful Jazmine from Jazzabelle's Diary, whom I met in Shoreditch earlier this week.

How I Would Spend 48 Hours in London

I may live in London, but I still play a tourist in my own city. I am endlessly visiting new neighbourhoods, wandering around markets, testing out the latest coffee shop (it's a hard life).

Similarly whenever I travel to a new city I always enjoy getting lost in the streets since it makes me feel as if I genuinely live there, even if for just a short space of time.

And while London's landmarks are definitely a must-see for any tourist, I'm a firm believer that you get to see the true heart of a city when you mingle with the locals.

Who finds the hoards of tourists at Piccadilly Circus fun anyway, even if you are one?

So how I would choose to spend 48 hours, your typical 'city break' visiting time, may be a little different to others on the web, you'll most likely feel like a true Londoner when you return home if you wish to complete it (and I highly recommend you do).

Dinner at Padella, London Bridge

Who doesn't love a good Italian?

If you genuinely don't, I have just the restaurant that will most certainly change your mind.

Welcome to Padella - a new Italian fella on the block in Borough Market, Southwark.