The best things to do in Kensington, London ??

Kensington Palace Queen Victoria Statue

Things to see and do in Kensington, london

Kensington is a bustling district in west London. Renowned as an upmarket area, it hosts London’s most famed museums, two magnificent Royal Parks and diverse shopping. Read on to discover the best things to do in Kensington, London. 

Of course, there are lots of fantastic sights and an abundance of hotels near Kensington, allowing visitors to easily access this cultural and glamorous area. 

The first stop for many in Kensington is three of London’s largest museums. These include the Natural History Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum and Science Museum. All of which offer free entry alongside a wealth of exciting exhibitions.

Natural History Museum Hope the Whale | The LDN GalNatural History Museum Exterior | The LDN GalNatural History Museum T Rex | The LDN Gal

Discover the greatest museums in London 

Renowned as one of the most precious collections of natural history specimens, the Natural History Museum is not to be missed. Be sure to say hello to Hope the blue whale skeleton who looms over the foyer as you enter.

The museum is famed for its dinosaur collections, as well as other natural environment exhibitions. These include botany, entomology, mineralogy, paleontology and zoology.

In winter, the Natural History Museum also hosts an ice rink and fairground rides.

Next door, discover the Victoria & Albert Museum, celebrated as one of the world’s greatest art and design museums. Inside, discover 5,000 years of creative genius with an abundance of ancient and contemporary collections.

These include eclectic collections of architecture, art, ceramics, design, fashion, furniture, paintings, performance, photographs, sculpture, textiles and jewellery. It’s certainly easy to spend a day getting lost within its astounding and varied exhibitions.

Science Museum Interior The LDN GalScience Museum Exterior | The LDN GalThe Last Tsar Blood and Revolution | The LDN Gal

Adjacent, you will find the Science Museum. Here, you are welcome to learn more about the world around you with countless exhibitions and hands-on displays.

Quite often, the Science Museum will also host a collection of special temporary exhibitions. Currently on, The Last Tsar: Blood and Revolution provides an interesting insight into the Russian royal family and their secretive medical history.

The interactive Fly 360° flight simulator ride also proves a popular paid attraction for adults and children alike.

What to do in Hyde Park Gardens, London

Have no fear though, museums aside, there is more fun to be had. Kensington is lucky to feature not one, but two Royal Parks. Discover the connected Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.

These parks offer plenty of open green space to explore, be it for a summertime picnic or brisk winter walk. 

Firstly, take a stroll in Hyde Park, one of the world’s greatest city parks. Here you will stumble upon 350 acres of nature at its finest. Appreciate its beauty among trees, flowers and meadows, as well as an array of monuments.

Hyde Park Italian Gardens | The LDN GalHyde Park Bear Fountain | The LDN GalHyde Park Italian Gardens Fountain | The LDN Gal

Stop for a moment by one of its lakeside refreshment points and enjoy views of The Serpentine. In summer, you may even opt to take a boat or pedalo out.

From November onward, you can also visit Winter Wonderland. Here you can enjoy traditional German wooden huts, fairground rides and an outdoor ice rink to boot.

You will also stumble upon a variety of monuments and memorials, such as the Achilles statue and the Joy of Life Fountain, to name a fewYou may admire flora in the Rose Garden, take a moment at the Diana Memorial Fountain or listen to the voiced opinions of many each Sunday at Speakers Corner.

Hyde Park has something for everyone, and offers year-round attractions and sporting fun. Connected, you will discover Kensington Gardens via the glorious Serpentine Bridge.

Kensington Palace Sunken Garden | The LDN Gal

What to do in Kensington Gardens, London

The gorgeous and graceful Kensington Gardens offers 265 acres of green space to wander. It is home to the celebrated Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial, Serpentine Galleries, The Italian Gardens, The Allotment Garden, Peter Pan Statue, Elfin Oak and the treasured Diana Memorial Playground.

Kensington Palace is a particularly popular pastime for tourists and local residents alike. This lovely stately home is embellished with period furnishings, landscaped by gorgeous surrounding gardens.

Kensington Palace Queen Victoria Statue | The LDN GalKensington Palace The Queen's State Apartments Bedroom | The LDN GalKensington Palace Diana Her Fashion Story Coats | The LDN Gal

Inside, discover the State Apartments, Queen Victoria’s former living quarters and a special Diana exhibition, dedicated to the fashion and charitable work of the late Princess of Wales.

It is currently the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (Prince William and Kate Middleton). Afterward, enjoy traditional afternoon tea in the Orangery before taking a stroll through the Sunken Garden, much loved by Diana.

Whole Foods Market entrance | The LDN GalWhole Foods Market lunch | The LDN GalWhole Foods Market bakery | The LDN Gal

What to do in High Street Kensington

Culture and outdoor ventures aside, Kensington offers a spectacular selection of outlets for leisure and shopping.

South Kensington is home to High Street Kensington, renowned for its impressive variety of independent shops, cafes, restaurants and galleries, as well as many a high street favourite. For antique finds, you will want to visit Kensington Church Street.

You could certainly spend hours hunting around Kensington’s variety of fabulous shops. My personal favourites include Whole Foods Market, Urban Outfitters and Japan House London.

Be sure to stop for a quick lunch at Whole Foods Market, this gigantic organic food market is famed in the area.

Japan House London Biology of Metal Exhibition | The LDN GalJapan House London Metalwork Exhibition | The LDN GalJapan House London Metalwork Exhibition tools | The LDN Gal

Next stop, the recently opened Japan House London. Surprisingly, contained within a three-floor art deco building, it features Japanese artwork, retail shopping and fine dining at the authentic Akira restaurant.

A fantastic experience for all, head downstairs to enjoy the fascinating biology of metal exhibition and become immersed in this cultural hot spot.

Finally, the Royal Albert Hall offers a night to remember. This concert hall is home to many a classical offering. Surprisingly, this grand venue also hosts a diverse selection of gigs, dance, opera and sporting events on occasion.

The Kensington area is especially accessible, served by the Central line at Queensway station and the Piccadilly, Circle and District line at South Kensington, as well as numerous buses.  

If you are looking to spend a weekend in London, Kensington is an area not to be missed!

Have you ever explored Kensington in London? Where would you go first?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more things to do in London?

The spending money was gifted by Hotels.com, but all views are my own

A night of American-inspired food at Dirty Bones Oxford ?

Dirty Bones Oxford review - cocktails | The LDN Gal

Dirty Bones Oxford review

If you are looking for some American-inspired food with a New York City twist, Dirty Bones Oxford is the place to be.

Walk inside and you are welcomed to a sleek interior, with moody low-lit lighting, plush seating and quiet corners aplenty. The perfect venue for an intimate evening with your other half or friends.

Grab a drink from the gorgeous cocktail bar and sit down to a menu embellished with traditional and exotic pairings – with many a twist to be discovered.

The menu offers quite the variety, with a fantastic selection of vegetarian choices and a vegan option to boot. As a fussy eater (and a vegetarian), I am always delighted when I have a few options to choose from!

To start, we sampled the mac and cheese balls and gyoza dumplings filled with mince and cheese. Who doesn’t love a starter oozing with cheese?

Dirty Bones Oxford review - interior | The LDN GalDirty Bones Oxford review - cocktail bar | The LDN GalDirty Bones Oxford review - interior dining area | The LDN Gal

So, what did I think of my dinner at Dirty Bones Oxford?

For my main, the vegan mac daddy burger, lovingly loaded with espresso-spiked BBQ sauce and vegan mac and cheese. I removed the ‘smoky mushroom short rib’ due to personal preference. Regardless, this main was a dream, held together in a soft bun and messy as they come.

My other half opted for the 12 hour braised beef short rib. These were anything but ‘short’, the monumental short rib is garnished with espresso-spiked BBQ sauce, crispy shallots and spring onions. They must have been pretty moreish, as the plate was left bone dry.

Alongside our mains, we sampled the cheesy truffle and crispy lamb topped fries. The cheesy fries garnished with aged cheddar, Parmesan cheese sauce and white truffle oil. The lamb fries, loaded with succulent crispy lamb, sweet miso, red chilli and jalapeño.

Dirty Bones Oxford review - starters | The LDN GalDirty Bones Oxford review - mains | The LDN GalDirty Bones Oxford review - desserts | The LDN Gal

To finish, we indulged with the peanut butter cookie cup and the stickiest toffee pudding. I have to admit, the pudding did not quite reach the bar compared to the rest of the meal. Of course, it was delicious, but seemed to just miss the sparkle that the starters, mains and sides had offered.

Overall, would I return to Dirty Bones Oxford? You bet! However, next time, I might have to skip lunch and breakfast that day…

You can book a Dirty Bones Oxford reservation for your next brunch, lunch or dinner date.

Have you been to Dirty Bones before? What would be your go to main?

 Stephanie xox

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This dining experience was exchanged for an honest review 

OOTD: Feeling oh so tropical with Femme Luxe ?

FEMME LUXE Cynthia multicolour striped floral wide leg trousers close up | The LDN Gal

FEMME LUXE Cynthia multicolour striped floral wide leg trousers

OOTD: Tropical stripes and flowers with Femme Luxe

With the cold weather well and truly creeping its way in and nights darker each day, an injection of colour into your wardrobe is really needed to brighten the mood sometimes.

When it comes to colour, Femme Luxe has you well and truly covered with vibrant shades, bold prints and trans-seasonal items aplenty.

I have to say, I fell head-over-heels when I spotted the Femme Luxe Cynthia multicolour striped floral wide leg trousers.

With a night on the town planned, I knew I had the perfect outfit to match, slipping into these gorgeous high waisted trousers, embellished with a slinky matching waist tie sash and wide eat-your-heart-out-ABBA legs.

FEMME LUXE Cynthia multicolour striped floral wide leg trousers review - The LDN Gal

So, what did I think of the multicolour striped floral wide leg trousers?

Teamed with an off shoulder frill bodysuit, I was ready to hit the town and pay the newest cocktail bar in the area a visit.

Not only do these slinky trousers standout – and I mean, they really standout – they are super flattering and comfortable with an elasticated waistband.

It is say to say, I felt fabulous. Want to know the best thing these trousers? They offer a sixties vibes with a bold twist.

What do you think of these tropical trousers? What is your favourite item on the Femme Luxe website at the moment?

 Stephanie xox

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This post is in collaboration with Femme Luxe

OOTD: Stepping out in style in Manchester with 10STORE ?

OOTD floral and frill long sleeve 10STORE cocktail dress review, Sunset by Australasia, Manchester | The LDN Gal

10STORE Floral and Frill Long Sleeve Dress

OOTD: FloRAL fRILLS with 10STORE

Spending a weekend in Manchester, I knew I would get the opportunity to take a new outfit or two for a spin. I had a 10STORE dress just dying to be worn – and I myself, desperate for some fancy cocktails. 

Sunset by Australasia would be the perfect place. So, I slipped into the floral and frill long sleeve dress and sought out some frozen Prosecco sorbet blends.

This A-line mini cocktail dress is fabulous, with a bold green colour and multi floral print, embellished with pink and white flowers throughout.

OOTD floral and frill long sleeve 10STORE cocktail dress review, Sunset by Australasia interior, Manchester | The LDN Gal

So, what did I think of the floral and frill long sleeve dress?

It’s all in the details in this pretty long sleeve dress, which features a round neckline, back button fastening alongside a keyhole cut-out and button embellished cuffs.

The best part? Its V-panel frill front and hem, alongside its tie wraparound waist. What I love, is the frill detail is rather subtle, yet manages to really bring the dress to life.

10STORE offers branded clothing at £10 or less, they sell high street brands (undisclosed) and offer quality clothing at super affordable prices.

What do you think of the floral and frill dress from 10STORE? What is your go to cocktail dress? 

Stephanie xox

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This post is in collaboration with 10STORE 

What to do for a weekend in Manchester via National Express ?

Manchester - What to do for a weekend in Manchester - The LDN Gal

What to do for a weekend in Manchester 

Manchester is a thriving city, brimming with things to do and places to see. However, getting around the UK can be a bit of a nightmare at the best of times, trains may be slightly quicker but prices are extortionate. So, I opted for a cheaper – and in my opinion – far more comfortable alternative. If you are wondering what to do for a weekend in Manchester, read on…

Departing Oxford just after 8am, I boarded my National Express coach to Manchester. I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised, all National Express coaches come with leather seats, air conditioning, power sockets and toilets as standard. They offer a downloadable entertainment system VUER for free, which offers films, TV programmes and magazines.

VUER, National Express to Manchester - What to do for a weekend in Manchester - The LDN Gal

If you have ever been on a long coach journey before without a charger and toilet – and I have – it is not a fun time. The coaches are modern and comfortable, with adjustable leg rests, spacious seats and supported headrests – just perfect for a little mid-journey snooze. With a brief stopover to switch coaches in Birmingham, we were off again and before you know it, we were in Manchester, ready to explore the sights.

We arrived in Manchester city centre at around 1pm and were ready to kick start our weekend of cafes, culture and cocktails galore. Here are my top 10 things to do for a weekend in Manchester:

Top 10 things to do for a weekend in Manchester

Manchester Art Gallery, Manchester - What to do for a weekend in Manchester | The LDN Gal

Manchester Art Gallery, Manchester

We needed an infusion of culture so headed to the Manchester Art Gallery. The gallery is spectacular, housing an assortment of classic and contemporary pieces. A particularly interesting exhibition space was dedicated to the relationship between art and mindfulness. And Breathe… allowed guests to stop and pause for a moment, appreciating the connection between the two.

Afflecks, Manchester - What to do for a weekend in Manchester - The LDN Gal

Afflecks, Manchester

You could spend an entire day in and around the Northern Quarter, soaking up the area before strolling through Afflecks indoor market and many a quirky shop. There are lots of retro, nostalgic and vintage treasures to be found and bought in Afflecks. It’s a lot of fun to rummage around the many shops and I have to admit, it reminded me of Camden Market on a much smaller scale.

John Rylands Library, Manchester - What to do for a weekend in Manchester - The LDN Gal

John Rylands Library, Manchester

The John Rylands Library was founded by Enriqueta Rylands in memory of her husband and is housed in an impressive Neo-Gothic building. Step inside, and you will discover its grand history and architecture, alongside its vast collection of treasured books and manuscripts. We were lucky to stop by as the Women Who Shaped Manchester exhibition was on. It detailed the journeys of incredible women, past and present. Women who used their wits and determination to overcome many societal challenges.

National Football Museum, Manchester - What to do for a weekend in Manchester - The LDN Gal

National Football Museum, Manchester

I am not a fan of the great game but the National Football Museum is impressive. My other half was delighted, heading around the various exhibitions and it was a highlight of his trip. Inside, discover a diverse range of worldwide memorabilia and interactive skills-based challenges. The penalty shoot game ever featured the old Wembley goal!

eXchange Food and Drink Lounge, Manchester

The eXchange Food and Drink Lounge is a rustic restaurant that does not fail to impress. Within, discover a restaurant area, bar, sports screens and even a kid’s area. Perfect for all the family, the eXchange Food and Drink Lounge offers incredible dining, spectacular cocktails and an evening of chatter and memories. Read my review of my experience here.

The Liars Club, Manchester - What to do for a weekend in Manchester - The LDN Gal

The Liars Club, Manchester

While in Manchester, we proved to be frequent patrons of The Liars Club. It is a tropical tiki bar with an enviable selection of global rum and a vibrant and funky interior. The cocktails were incredible and good-value for money. You could lose hours sipping away listening to Reggae tunes aplenty. They even offer a two drinks for £10 happy hour on weekdays!

Sunset by Australasia, Manchester - What to do for a weekend in Manchester - The LDN Gal

Sunset by Australasia, Manchester

Sunset by Australasia is an Instagram dream. It offers a  stunning pastel pink and gold interior, alongside an outside terrace embellished with vibrant flower walls and plush seating and cushions. Sunset by Australasia is gorgeous – but the cocktails are even better. So, grab a frozen Prosecco sorbet blend and let the world go by for a few hours.

Sugar Junction interior, Manchester - What to do for a weekend in Manchester - The LDN Gal

Sugar Junction, Manchester

Sugar Junction is a coffee, cake and cocktail lovers’ dream. This vintage venue in the Northern Quarter offers lots of wholesome and homemade produce. I had a cake (gluten-free, which was a nice touch) alongside pink lemonade – which was beautifully decorated. My other half opted for a rather filling and well-presented sandwich, which was accompanied by chips. You can enjoy breakfast, brunch throughout the day and afternoon tea – or a cocktail or two, if you feel inclined. 

Home Sweet Home. Manchester - What to do for a weekend in Manchester - The LDN Gal

Home Sweet Home, Manchester

Looking for the best pancakes in town? Home Sweet Home offers an American breakfast and brunch in a cosy and quirky location. The pancake stacks are huge, doused with fresh fruit, cream and sauces – there are some savoury options too, so don’t fret. Do be wary though, if you get there at the weekend and are looking to quash your comfort food cravings, there may be a bit of a wait.

Bees in the City at Manchester Cathedral, Manchester - What to do for a weekend in Manchester - The LDN Gal

Manchester Cathedral, Manchester

We spent some time in Manchester Cathedral, appreciating the many Bee in the City bee’s dotted around its interior. Although Manchester Cathedral is rather small, it was as expected, beautiful. It is the perfect place to take a few moments away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city centre.

So, if you are looking for a fabulous UK city break, look no further! There are plenty of things to do for a weekend in Manchester.

You can book your next journey to Manchester (or the rest of the UK) with National Express here or give them a call on 0871 7818181.

National Express travels to over 900 destinations nationwide and offers thousands of tickets for £5 or less (plus a booking fee). The best bit? Travelling by coach proves to be the most environmentally friendly form of public transport!

Where would be your first stop in Manchester? Have you travelled via National Express before?

Stephanie xox

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This post is in collaboration with National Express

OOTD: Topshop blue tartan check trousers ?

Blue tartan check trousers Topshop | The LDN Gal

Boohoo Oversized Shirt – Topshop Trousers – Zara Heeled Boots

OOTD: Blue Tartan Check Trousers with Topshop

I have to admit, this weekend gone was fabulous minus the little bit of drizzle. Me and the better half finally got some quality time together and decided to go exploring in Oxford for the Oxford Open Doors event.

Oxford Open Doors is an annual event that allows people access to many an Oxford University treasure across the city, with free entry to its many beautiful buildings.

We decided to take a stroll through Christ Church, enjoying the cathedral, Tom Quad and great hall – with many a lovely photo opportunity. 

So, what did I think of the blue tartan check trousers?

This weekend also allowed me the perfect opportunity to embrace my Summer-meets-Autumn wardrobe with these oh so gorgeous Topshop blue tartan check trousers.

I love these trousers for three main reasons – any many more, let’s be honest. One, they are vibrant as, the blue stands out beautifully against the contrasting red and yellow. Two, they are high waisted and thus super cosy and a flattering fit. Three, tartan – it’s Autumn, so tartan! 

Teamed with a Boohoo oversized shirt and Zara heeled boots, this OOTD defines bright and bold meets smart-casusal. It is perfect dressed down in the day or up at night. These blue tartan check trousers are an all-day transitional dream.

What do you think of these blue tartan check trousers from Topshop? What’s in your autumn wardrobe? 

Stephanie xox

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Spellbound exhibition, Ashmolean Museum ?

Spellbound exhibition witch, Ashmolean Museum, Oxford - The LDN Gal

Spellbound exhibition, Ashmolean Museum, Oxford

The Spellbound exhibition at the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, features a quirky and eccentric collection of oddities, thwart in superstition. The exhibition illustrates over eight centuries of magic, ritual and witchcraft.

As a country, we have always been wary of magic. Spellbound illustrates this fear, showcasing many a mystical and fascinating object and artwork. It aims to entice discussion and reflection.

It looks at our ongoing and emotional relationship with magic, superstition and ritual. Have you ever avoided stepping under a ladder or putting new shoes on the table?

Within Spellbound, discover a collection of “spellbinding stories, fascinating objects… from crystal balls and magic mirrors to witch bottles and curse poppets.”

Spellbound: Magic, Ritual and Witchcraft exhibition

Exhibition highlights include a witch in a bottle, a heart in lead and silver casing and a copy of The Discovery of Witches by Matthew Hopkins, 1647.

You will explore the history of magic, ritual and witchcraft over 800 years. The objects and artwork on display highlight people’s superstition, witches practice and the tools used to eventually condemn them.

Magic and the unknown has always historically caused people to be fearful, and when married with religious views, it was linked closely to devil worship and ultimate despair.

Once inside, you will discover Medieval texts, binding jewellery and crystal balls, as well as magical objects aplenty alongside contemporary art installations. If you are a fan of magic, the supernatural, the cosmos and the occult, this enchanting exhibition is for you.

To book tickets for the magical Spellbound exhibition at the Ashmolean Museum, please take a look here. The exhibition runs until January 6, 2019.

Are you fascinated by magic? Which exhibition highlight would you be most intrigued by?

Stephanie xox

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Why you need the ZOE QYKSonic facial cleansing device now ?

ZOE QYKSonic facial cleansing device review

Zoe QYKSonic facial cleansing device review

I have to admit, this is the first time I have tried a facial cleansing device. So, I wasn’t overly sure what to expect with the Zoe QYK Sonic facial cleansing device.

The Zoe is as vibrant in colour as it is beautiful – but does it actually work?

Its unique petal-shaped design may be pretty, but we’re here to find out if it packs a punch. Available in five gorgeous colours, the Zoe’s silicone bristles work at over 6000 pulsations per minute, to target every nook and cranny.

The gentle massaging bristles ensure no irritation to your skin and work in motion to clean and minimise pores, eliminate blemishes and target wrinkles. This super swift circulation movement works to gently cleanse your face, exfoliating any make up, dirt, or oil that may clog up your pores and cause imperfections.

The Zoe offers 300 uses in a single charge, alongside 15 alternating massage settings when in use. It is perfect for all skin-types due to its medical grade and hygienic antimicrobial silicone exterior.

So, what did I think of the Zoe QYKSonic facial cleansing device

Using a sonic facial cleansing device ensures that no nasties are touching your face. It can be used easily alongside your favourite skin care cleansers, serums, masks and moisturisers. Using it with my favourite cleanser, it certainly made a difference – shifting away my daily make up and grime.

Not only is Zoe effective, but she is packaged beautifully. Sealed within a magnetic box, the facial cleansing device is presented alongside a matching drawstring bag and USB charger.

Its compact size also means it’s great for on the go – so you never have to miss out on your nightly skin care routine! 

So, if you are looking for a product that offers deep and effective cleaning, look no further than the Zoe QYKSonic facial cleansing device.

Have you used a cleansing device before? What is your skin care regime like?  

Stephanie xox

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This post is in collaboration with QYKSonic

Here’s why every girl needs a pair of emerald earrings ✨

The Diamond Store 9 Carot Gold Emerald Earrings UK | The LDN Gal

Why every girl needs emerald earrings

What girl doesn’t love gemstones and a bit of sparkle?

Let’s face it, anything that glimmers is a girl’s best friend and I was lucky enough to get my hands on a pair of emerald earrings from The Diamond Store.

Of late, colourful gemstones have been increasing in popularity, gracing red carpets, parties and publications globally. So, here is every reason why every girl needs a pair of emerald earrings.

The Diamond Store 9 Carot Gold Emerald Earrings | The LDN Gal

The history of emeralds

Emeralds are celebrated for their vivid colour and contextual meanings, having been worn since ancient times, emeralds were introduced to Europe in the 1500s.

As expected, green connotes nature and the emerald is believed to encourage a myriad of enhancing properties including balance, fertility, growth, healing and peace. The precious gemstone therefore looks after your mental, physical and spiritual well being.

Not only is their meaning so special – and the emerald so unique – but these bold and bright gemstones add a touch of class and sophistication to any outfit, alongside a splash of calming colour.

The Diamond Store 9 Carot Gold Emerald Earrings Close Up | The LDN Gal

When worn, emerald earrings are simply enchanting. These traditional gold earrings featured offer set emeralds that are subtle in their size but nevertheless stunning.

Whatever you may be looking for, The Diamond Store have you covered for all your glitz and glamour needs, whether you are seeking out colourful gemstones, the perfect diamond or ornate costume pieces.

Let’s face it, diamonds may be a girl’s best friend but emeralds are her partner-in-crime.

You can get your hands on these affordable emerald earrings here.

What is your favourite piece of jewellery? Do you prefer emeralds to diamonds or vice-versa?

Stephanie xox

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This post is in collaboration with The Diamond Store

Boobie Bears travel the world to raise breast cancer awarenesss ?

Boobie Bears for Breast Cancer | The LDN Gal

Scarlet’s ‘Little Orphans’ raise breast cancer awareness

Boobie Bears are from the creative genius of Scarlet of Scarlet’s ‘Little Orphans’. What started out as a fun pasttime to connect with friends exchanging ‘Boy Bears’, has turned into a micro movement.

In essence, the concept is simple. Scarlet sends out her travelling Boobie Bears from her home in Winterton, North Lincolnshire in the UK, with a very special mission.

After developing cancer herself in 2018, Scarlet decided her bears could help to raise awareness of breast cancer. Boobie Bears are sent out to travel the world, bringing a smile to all who come across them and their heartfelt message.

In February 2018, Scarlet was told she had Paget’s disease, a form of breast cancer that affected her nipple. When asked about her diagnosis, Scarlet said:

“I had a tiny flake of skin on my nipple that wouldn’t heal. Paget’s disease doesn’t show on a mammogram or ultra sound.”

After an operation in March 2018, Scarlet lost a nipple, lots of breast tissue and had to undergo a reconstruction. After three weeks of daily radiotherapy, the cancer was gone!

“I wanted to turn a negative into a positive and send the girl bears out for breast cancer awareness.”

Boobie bears are not looking to raise money, they’re simply on their adventure to raise awareness. Scarlet said: “We are asked all the time to donate money to what seems a million charities and I just wanted to raise awareness.”

So, where do Boobie Bears come from?  

Scarlet sources her bears from her own pocket, picking them up from charity shops and car boot sales. In addition, she asks her Facebook followers for teddy bear donations where possible.

“People in my village have been amazing and I often get up in the morning to teddy bears being posted through my letterbox.”

As the bears leave Scarlet and travel on, their adopted finders post on Scarlet’s dedicated Facebook page, Scarlet’s ‘Little Orphans’.

These prompted Facebook posts help spread the message. As well as creating an oh so cute travel diary. So, when it’s time for a Boobie Bear to move on, it’s carefully left in its next destination. Afterward, it’s ready to be adopted once more and continue its journey.

“I’m very proud of my Boobie Bears and their feedback. A few ladies have had their boobs checked after seeing one of my bears, which I think is amazing.”

Tracking Boobie Bears worldwide

Over 300 bears have been sent out so far. Unfortunately, they do not always turn up online. However, Scarlet keeps a track of the ones that do. She adds people’s photos to dedicated albums, illustrating their journeys.

“The bears are everywhere from Skegness to Australia, to the Caribbean and Europe – and lots of places in between.”

Scarlet will continue to send out Boobie Bears for as long as she can. With this in mind, she hopes her grandchildren will carry on her Boobie Bear mission when she is gone.

“It really is amazing to see where they go and what they get up to.”

She gives bears out to friends, family and colleagues to take on adventures, as well as leaving them wherever she goes. She’s been posting them to people all over the UK too, so that they can join in on the fun!

You can keep an eye on Scarlet’s ‘Little Orphans’ page for all of the Boobie Bears adventures. You never know, you may even find one of your own some day!

What do you think of the Boobie Bear concept? Where would you take your Boobie Bear?

Stephanie xox

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