#I got a new jumper from a charity shop

[georgekirrin]

Edward Teach, babygirl

[belmottetower]

Sorry to get nit picky about your Roy and Jamie time line academy post but:

1. Year 7 is the equivalent to 6th grade - grade 6-8 (middle school/junior high) is the equivelant to years 7-9 (key stage 3/lower secondary school).

2. All schools both private and state (public schools) wear uniforms and from my experience at a private school the state schools in my area were stricter about uniform/dress codes than my private school.

3. I got the impression from 3x06 sunflowers that Roy going to Sunderland was more of a Boot Camp/training camp rather than actually joining the academy.

Thanks for your thoughts!

For reference, the previous post is here - some notes on Roy and Jamie's academy experiences. A firmer version will go into the AO3 primer.

1. You've misunderstood what I said or perhaps why I said it. This info on British school years is already covered in my primer. But - UK Year 7 is still the equivalent to US 7th Grade in terms of year and age levels. We do R (reception, like their kindergarten) to Year 6 primary school, then Year 7 and beyond for secondary school. I am totally aware that the US splits the "school eras" differently into K-5 Elementary, 6-8 Middle and 9-12 High. British schools split the education levels in a different place - R-6 primary and 7-13 secondary (we do 14 years, not 13, overall.) But year 7 and 7th Grade are still the same year of school. The 8th year of formal education after K-6. The point of what I wrote in that post was to flag that in the UK, Year 7, rather than Year 6 or Year 9, is when the "new school era" starts.

2. Yep, most schools here in the UK wear school uniforms. I didn't say in this post they didn't, I just pointed out how strict somewhere like St Bede's is, which is a real school that I have researched. The primer is for people who DON'T know UK culture, and Americans tend to forget that uniforms are standard in the UK because for them, plain clothes are standard. Bede's is strict in terms of formality - it's a blazer, branded jumper and tie, as opposed to a polo shirt with a crest or something - and it's strict in terms of only wearing the official school shop uniforms. What happened at your school is your school, I am talking specifically about this real actual school. Here's a random tweet from St Bede's with some boys in uniform in case anyone wants a look at it to imagine what Jamie wore.

3. You might be the first person in the fandom to get that impression about Roy. In my opinion that is a pretty big misread of the show. Roy mentioning coming back home for Christmas in 3.06 is a very good indication that he was in fact living in Sunderland, and Christmas was his first visit home. That Christmas visit is also something he cited in 1.06, Two Aces, when talking about moving to Sunderland - in Two Aces there are actually two references to Sunderland that make it clear that he was scouted and moved up there at age 9. It's phrased like his visit at Christmas was a temporary stay, not a permanent return to London.

First, Keeley says the following to him on the treadmill: "I read this mad story about a kid who grew up in a shit part of South London. And who got sent off to play as a child in Sunderland, of all places. And who later was force to rap his own verse in a charity single which was called "Winner, Winner, Football Dinner."

And then at the curse breaking ritual Roy says: "I was nine when I got scouted by Sunderland, and I'd never left London before. My granddad drove me all the way there, and it was freezing, and I was terrified. I was fucking nine. Say something. When I got there, he gave me this old blanket. He said it was to keep me warm and to remind me of home. And that was the last time I saw him. 'Cause he'd passed away by the time I got back for Christmas, so..."

Scouted has a very specific meaning in this situation. It means scouted as a potential professional player and signed by a club's academy.

This season, in 3.09, Roy references Sunderland again. He says:

"When I was first coming up through Sunderland, there was an old-timer on the team. Local guy. He and his wife were about to have their first kid, so during training one day, I made a joke that, statistically, I was probably the real dad."

This comment tells us that Roy not only came up through Sunderland - as in, through their academy - but that he also made his way onto the first team there and made his senior debut with them. Because his academy team isn't going to include an older player about to have a child. This story is something that happened to probably a 17 or 18 or 19 year old Roy, to a 30 year old Sunderland player. This indicates that he "came up through" the Sunderland academy all the way til he was pulled from the junior side into their first team.

Every indication from the show, as well as interviews with Brett, tell us that Roy went to Sunderland at age 9 and lived there, was a part of that football club, for at least the next decade before being eventually sold to Chelsea as an adult.

[pancakehouse]

hiiii i’m asking for 5 please!!!! do your worst xx

lovely laura...i have given you my worst...i need to go lie down in a dark room now...

5. monsters are always hungry, darling

1981 and this October is colder than others. It’s a bone-chill that seeps through Remus’ ratty jumper, cracks his knuckles open and spills red over old wounds. It claws at his throat, his chest; takes big, swiping chunks out of skin, and asks: are you still here? is this all that’s left? 

The window in their kitchen is open. Already was, when Remus got back. Shouts carry up from the street; full of triumph and desperate, breathless relief. Celebrations and golden sparks exploding from raised wands. Streaks of owls in the breaking dawn, all carrying the news with them. 

He is dead! He is dead! Merlin gives thanks to The Boy Who … 

The taste of vomit is sour on Remus’ tongue. His stomach heaves, dry and wretched, but nothing else comes up. The moon is more than a week gone, but still it rakes at his skin, thrashes too close to the surface, always wanting more, more, so much more. What are monsters made for, if not hunger?

Is this all that’s left? he wonders. Where have you gone?

A glass-shattered ashtray on the ground. The charity shop sofa they bought together. A jacket - his jacket, worn leather and faded sleeves, on the hook by the door. His socks in the bottom drawer. His toothbrush on the bathroom counter. His indentation (oh. there you are.) on the left side of the bed. 

And Remus is there - he is here, on the floor. Blood under his nails, his teeth, his gums … is this all that’s left? Blood at his feet. Blood on his hands. His toothbrush on the counter - right there, next to the other one. 

A peek of orange spills through the window; the first light of morning. The first light of November, he supposes.

The knock on his door came hours ago now. Sharp knuckles against wood, in quick succession - rap rap rap. The rusty turn of a knob. Those last, precious seconds. 

There used to be a creak in the steps, when they first moved in. The ones leading up to the flat door. Several loose floorboards; old, rotting wood that groaned loudly under any sort of pressure. One step - creak - two, three - creak, creak - over and over, all the way up. 

Remus had wanted to keep them. Thought it gave the place character; an added quirk. And had said, maybe only half-jokingly: 

Plus, it might be nice to have a warning, y’know? I mean - like if someone’s on their way up to kill us, or something. 

(Or something.)

It was … well, it was Sirius who’d smirked at that. Raised a brow, huffed a laugh. Flicked his wand and set the floorboards right again. Replied, fondly:

This place is a shoebox, Moons. Don’t worry - we’ve still got plenty of quirks. And, anyway, if someone’s coming up here to kill us … well, they probably won’t be using the front door. 

Remus thinks of that, now, in the breaking hours of dawn. With shattered glass on the rug and clean laundry on the line. Two mugs in the sink. ( … so, this is it? you’re going to leave me here?) Sirius stuck under his nails, his teeth, his gums. Apples in the refrigerator. Celebrations outside and bile in his throat. 

Remus thinks of those creaky steps and loose floorboards. Those last, precious seconds. 

He thinks he really could have done with a warning.

[theretirementstory]

Oh the delightful colours of autumn! I think the red leaves are Virginia Creeper.

So this week I feel as if I have been “the white tornado”! I had a lovely walk down to the river, obviously taking photos as I always do. I did miss the opportunity of photographing the train as it made its way from the last stop, Chaumont, to the next stop, Bar-sur-Aube, it’s final destination being Paris. I was too busy trying to take the above photo.

I took delivery of the new printer 😁, amongst all the blurb was a CD for installing onto the computer……. Oh I wanted to cry! However another bag of blurb contained information on how to install online. Well it took about three attempts but somehow (I know not how) it actually worked and I was able to print papers to my hearts content!

A visit to the doctors was on the cards too as I told the nurse about my swollen, red hot ankles and she said the dreaded word “phlebitis”. Typically, my ankles were still a little swollen but had no signs of redness or heat when I arrived at the doctors and he concluded that it could be water retention. So I was given tablets (yes more!) and he hoped that I would expel the water by the usual channel.

We had very, very heavy rain on Tuesday and as I had anticipated (by placing a bucket in the appropriate spot) the water started coming through the dining room ceiling yet again! I decided to ring the man who had been out to view it the year before, but had never let me have the estimate as he was going through a divorce! When he answered, I just gave my name and he said he would be with me “tout de suite”, which to be honest he was. He remembered my address, all about the problem and he asked if I would be in all day as he would bring the estimate later that same day. He kept his word, I was happy with the price (as last year he had been up on the roof investigating the problem) I signed the estimate making it a binding contract and he will come and do the work when we have a dry day. Hallelujah!

I had a phone call from the hospital changing the date of my CT scan from Thursday to Friday. Of course I was in panic mode! Taxi to be cancelled and booked for the next day but everything was fine. So off I went with a very polite taxi driver. Having attained 60+ years without any real marks on my skin ( a caesarean scar but that’s not noticeable) I have now had not one but two tattoos! 😂😂these will also not be visible as they are the tattoos for my radiotherapy. I am under the impression that the treatment will start in two weeks, but who knows I may get a phone call to go in earlier or later!

I decided to clear the wardrobe of all the items which are just too big for me now. There were five pairs of trousers which just hung on me, a skirt which may have wiggled it’s way down 😳, there were t-shirts and tops which I would have worn but would have hung on me again! I took it all to the charity shop. Then I started clearing out other areas, and then filled the car with “stuff”for the decheterie (tip). Holy smoke, I had things I had brought over from England which were still wrapped in bubble wrap, well I have been here over 6 years so I reckon it is safe to say I won’t be needing them. I have a lot of English books which I have read and I am going to meet up with a friend on Tuesday and she is going to take me to a charity shop, in deepest darkest Haute Marne, where she has seen English books. So as you can guess I am sorting out more bits and pieces to take. Plus I am going to check out the garage for more stuff to go to the decheterie.

After clearing the clothes, I was looking for some new jumpers. I saw a couple on the “sale rail” bought them and brought them home to try on, they were a perfect fit. Yesterday, I went out looking for other items and I got the bargain of the day, a skirt with 70% off the original price! I tried it on and it too fitted very well. I have had a productive week.

I have been “knitting Nora” working on the babies blanket. As I would like all the knitting sorted up earlier than the 24 November so that it is all ready for the Christmas Fayre.

Of course my week wouldn’t be complete without messages to French and English friends plus telephone calls to the UK too. I really don’t know how I fit all of these in as phone calls usually run for an hour (or more). As the old BT advert used to say “ it’s good to talk”.

Now it’s time for the records spot! This weeks offerings are “My Cherie Amour” by Stevie Wonder from back in 1969. I remember at school in the playground we used to listen to the charts on a Tuesday, on a little transistor radio. I loved this song and would sing along any time it was played.

The second song is “Question” by The Moody Blues. My first “real” boyfriend liked the band as well as Wishbone Ash, Led Zeppelin and others of their ilk. I got into the Moody Blues after “Nights in White Satin” was in the charts again in 1972 and strangely was seeing the same guy for the second time. He was still into Wishbone Ash etc whereas I was into Slade, T Rex, Bowie (for Mick Ronson) and Mott thé Hoople. 😂😂.

Let’s just give a quick mention to “The Daddy” who has been on “elderly relative duties” again this weekend. It will be the last weekend for a while. “The Trainee Solicitor” has had another busy week too, I hope he managed to take advantage of the extra hour in bed. “The Ex-Graduate” has had a couple of “rest days” this week but that was just to get her ready for a very busy week at work this coming week.

Jusqu’à la semaine prochaine.

[sophieebdaily]

Sophie Ellis-Bextor on how LGBTQ+ people – and Alyssa Edwards – have influenced her

.

Sophie Ellis-Bextor speaks to PinkNews about her stint as a guest judge on Drag Race UK, why she’s grateful that drag has gone mainstream, and her Christmas collaboration with Save The Children.

It’s early November, and despite growing pressure from TV adverts and shop windows, many of us are still refusing to admit that Christmas is just around the corner. Not Sophie Ellis-Bextor, though: the British dance-pop chart-topper, author and podcast host has had Christmas on the brain since August.

“I’m already fully immersed in Christmas in my head,” she tells PinkNews. For starters, the singer and pandemic hero has been planning her Christmas Kitchen Disco Tour, which she’s taking on the road from 23 November until mid-December.

Sophie promises that the show will be “all the best aspects of a Christmas party,” – think trees, festive hats, “antlers on a horse” and, of course, an unhealthy dose of Christmas tunes. 

“I have remembered to put some of my songs in there as well,” she laughs.

Secondly, over the summer, she began working with clothing brand Chinti & Parker to create a Christmas jumper, inspired by her famous “Family” tattoo, for Save The Children’s Christmas Jumper Day on 7 December.

When we speak, she’s calling from a Save The Children centre in London, where she’s spent the day taking part in parenting support groups, one for dads, and one for children with special educational needs.

Sophie has five children of her own, all boys, with her husband, The Feeling bass player Richard Jones. “I can speak from first-hand experience on the importance of community when you’re a new parent. I think you can feel quite isolated,” she admits. 

“It’s so important, in all aspects of your life, if you’ve got a community of people keeping an eye on one another. It’s a powerful thing.”

The star became one of the organisation’s ambassadors in 2018. She’s also a supporter of premature birth research charity Borne, following the premature births of two of her sons, an ambassador for Ovarian Cancer Action, and works with children’s charity Lumos and HIV charity mothers2mothers.

She’s vocal about social issues too, having thrown her support behind the LGBTQ+ community, particularly the trans community, when it was needed most. 

So, why does she feel it’s vital to use her platform to support the causes she cares for?

“I suppose the question would probably be more why not? I don’t know another way to be with stuff. It’s a very natural thing to do,” she says. 

Through her celebrity status, she’s been able to meet people from all walks of life, going through all sorts of hardships – from queer people marching at Pride events, to children orphaned in Ukraine. 

“Even things like doing my podcast [Spinning Plates] means I can sit at the table with people and have conversations about other life experiences. 

“That’s kind of the experience of being human. We’re all sharing the planet at the same time. It feels good to empathise with people.”

Sophie has spoken a lot about the love she’s received from LGBTQ+ fans in return for being an enduring, supportive presence, but watching the crowd at her set at queer music festival Mighty Hoopla earlier this year was overwhelming.

Standing on stage, dressed in a silver, iridescent mini-dress, and orange, fringe shoulder piece, she remembers getting “a bit weepy” looking out at the crowd. 

“Particularly with the LGBTQ+ crowd, it’s funny, it’s always been such a significant part of what I do, and I don’t think I would be the kind of artist I am without that relationship,” she admits.

Now in her forties, she’s used to seeing younger queer people in the audience. “I feel this real affection and – I hope nobody minds me saying it – but quite a maternal feeling. It’s really special to me.”

There’s a particularly warm place in her heart for drag performers. Last month, she was a guest judge on Drag Race UK season five, and dedicated one episode of her BBC Sounds radio show, Kitchen Disco, solely to playing songs used as Drag Race UK lip-syncs.

When the British version of the show was confirmed in 2018, Sophie was straight on the phone, asking to be a guest judge. “A lot of my music is influenced [by] the same culture that bore drag queens. There’s a lot of crossover. A lot of it really resonates,” she explains.

In fact, it was one very famous, much-memed drag queen in particular who “changed” how she performs on stage.

“Alyssa Edwards was doing some gigs with me in Australia, seven or eight years ago,” she says.

“The absolute commitment and conviction of performance that drag queens can have when they enter the stage is phenomenal, and I was watching Alyssa. Right down to the fingertips, every part of them was completely committed to performing the song.”

Alyssa, Sophie says, taught her how to put on a “tough armour” while on stage.

“The bit about Drag Race that has always been really affecting is the stories behind it and the vulnerability.” That’s probably why, she believes, the show has found as much an audience with teenage girls as it has with queer adults.

Overall, drag has brought joy to Sophie and her family’s lives: she watched the Drag Race UK episode she guest judged on with two of her sons, aged seven and four.

“It’s just flipping fantastic that drag is so part of the mainstream now. We take it for granted a little bit, but what RuPaul has done with that show is incredible.”

Even down to her costumes, from the glittering green eyeshadow in her “Murder on the Dancefloor” video, to her gorgeous Mighty Hoopla get up, drag has been “massively” influential. She’s not always wearing a Christmas jumper. 

“Much to my sons’ horror, I’ve got more and more confident the older I’ve got,” she laughs. 

Christmas in the Ellis-Bextor household is always a busy time. It’s her, Richard, the children, her mother, brother, sister and Richard’s family, plus neighbours and friends. “I’m a bit of a magpie, so I think Christmas is just… it’s quite extra,” she smiles. 

They start it with stockings being opened, finish it with a mulled wine martini, “and see what happens in between”.

When she heads out on tour, no doubt Alyssa Edwards will be on her mind, ensuring that she remains… as camp as Christmas.

[ladegaard59campbell]

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[matzen74matzen]

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[marymccartneyphotos]

"My earliest memories are split between London and the farm in Scotland. The excitement of city life versus absolute solitude. It was still exciting but in a different way: riding ponies, climbing trees, helping Mum in the kitchen. And the sound of Dad’s guitar. It makes me laugh now, but there were some afternoons when we’d be watching cartoons and Dad would wander over with his guitar. He’d sit down and start playing this beautiful music, messing around with melodies and songs. We’d all give him an evil stare. 'Dad, we’re watching telly. Go in the kitchen.' One time he said: 'Do you know how many people would love to be sitting here now, listening to me play guitar?' I just shrugged. 'But we can’t hear The Wombles.' Being a vegetarian family in the late 1970s marked you out as different. Everybody said it was all Mum’s idea and she’d forced Dad to stop eating meat, but they did it as a team. I remember them discussing recipes and Dad saying he still wanted something he could slice for his Sunday roast. Mum was always excited about cooking and she inspired me. Dad’s pretty good in the kitchen — he’d make a great sous-chef. If you ask him to sort out the mashed potato, it’ll be the best you’ve ever tasted. He’s meticulous, just like he is in the studio. Of course people made fun of Mum and Dad for being veggie. They made fun of Mum for a lot of things, saying she wasn’t a real musician, she wore odd socks and charity-shop jumpers. The real problem was that she didn’t fit the mould of the woman they wanted Paul McCartney to marry. They wanted someone who went to all the chichi parties, but Mum was more interested in feeding the animals on the farm. Mum and Dad insisted we went to the local comprehensive school, which made me feel a bit awkward at the time. I’d be in school for a term, then off on tour. When I came back, all my friends had made new friends. Now, when I look back, I realise what a smart move it was. It kept us grounded. Dad was almost too enthusiastic when it came to helping with homework. On my own I could knock it off in half an hour but Dad would get out the encyclopedia, he’d be cross-referencing and drawing graphs. The teachers must have got suspicious when I gave in these ridiculously detailed essays. Dad said education changed his life and he wanted to pass that love of learning on to us. I look at Dad and think, after all he’s been through, how has he managed to stay in one piece? He has found a way of keeping a level head, no matter what else is happening in his life. My own personal theory — I’ve not talked to Dad about this — is that he needs normality because that’s what inspires him. Real life and real people. That’s where all the music comes from. Every year that goes by I seem to find a new level of admiration for what Dad has achieved — and Mum too. My husband and I have this game where we try to get through a day without coming across a reference to Dad or the Beatles. What usually happens is that I get to around nine o’clock, then something comes on the radio or I see an ad for the new Beatles documentary. I do listen to the Beatles at home, but it’s the Wings stuff I play the most. Mum’s not around any more, but when she’s doing her backing vocals I can still hear her and Dad together. There’s a song called I Am Your Singer — that always gets me. 'When day is done, harmonies will linger on.'” -Mary McCartney (2021)

[ariendiel]

Since we're getting close to December, how do you think the Islanders celebrate the holidays? Which one is their favorite? What kind of gifts would they give and like to receive? Go wild!🎄✨

Ohhh, I love this, thank you Debby! 🎅 I'm doing the Islanders I feel most "familiar" with, so feel free to reblog with additions or the Islanders I missed (like Carl, Lottie, and Jakub etc.)

How the Islanders celebrate the holidays

Bobby

Loves Christmas with all the food (always with a Jamaican twist) and gifts. Loves to receive toys in particular, as it's for some reason more socially acceptable around Christmas smh. He now also bakes for his family, and takes great pride in having perfected as many traditional recipes as possible.

Preferred gift: Video games or cool toys

Chelsea

I think Chelsea is the kind who'd make each holiday uniquely her (think pink Christmas tree and galentines day being near sacred). Chelsea adores giving away presents more than receiving them though, and goes on a whole little journey around the UK to deliver presents in person while dressed as Santa's little helper.

Preferred gift: Anything rose gold and quirky

Elisa

I mean, Elisa must love her own birthday above any other holiday, right? And yes, Elisa would consider her own birthday as being a worthy national holiday. She goes all out, gets so many gifts – including from herself – and basically her whole birthday week ends up being very Gatsby-esque in terms of glamourous parties that never end.

Preferred gift: Luxury items or tickets to a Beyoncé concert

Gary

Traditional, and so so very cosy. Christmas with Gary would include all the British classics, and of course Christmas jumpers – maybe matching ones? I think he loves how relaxing it is, and definitely avoids the shops around Christmas. It's all about spending time with his little family.

Preferred gift: Tools or Star Wars lego

Hannah

Classic Christmas with soft cottage core vibes and an instagram full of penguin classics she's reading in front of the fireplace (does she actually read them? Doubt). She also loves to go riding outside on frosty mornings, and of course receiving presents is a big one for her.

Preferred gift: Pretty books

Henrik

He definitely loves to go home to Sweden for Christmas! The snow, the long, dark nights, skiing, the smells... Yeah, he just can't get into the right mood if he's trying to celebrate in the UK.

Preferred gift: Hiking/outdoor gear

Hope

I think she's kind of over Christmas because of her job and how it's always super stressful before Christmas especially, so I think she prefers something more vague like the summer holidays in general (it's warm and she can travel to somewhere exciting).

Preferred gift: Jewellery

Ibrahim

So, I'm not quite sure if Rahim would celebrate Christmas or if he's muslim (or just from a primarily muslim family), but his favourite holiday would probably either be Christmas or Eid al-Fitr depending on that. Let me know what you all think!

Preferred gift: Comic books

Lucas

I think Lucas enjoys Christmas, mostly due to the mood that follows it. However, I think he personally prefers celebrating the Lunar New Year's day, with all the traditions, foods, and games that follow. It just brings him a certain calm, and it's something he doesn't feel depends on having a super close relationship with his parents to celebrate.

Preferred gift: Donations to charities on his behalf

Marisol

I think she enjoys Christmas largely because it gives her a proper break from her work and studies. She definitely enjoys the Spanish traditions she grew up with, and in particular the food. I think she's got her own traditions too though, like going out dancing and drinking with her friends.

Preferred gift: She loves a blazer, but she'll accept a good non-fiction book too

Noah

Noah definitely adores Christmas, mostly because he loves giving thoughtful gifts and spending time with his loved ones. Making people happy with gifts and eating the most delicious home made food (I imagine it's an amazing mix of cultures, and that he helps making it) are both some of his favourite things.

Preferred gift: Books or squiddles

Priya

I have a feeling Priya loves Diwali. The five days is a special time for her to remember her heritage, and then there's the colours, the food, the lights – and she loves preparing her home for it. All it stands for and celebrates just means a lot to her.

Preferred gift: Perfume or luxury clothes

[happylittlemilkshake]

I got myself a lovely new bag from the charity shop this morning and a nice new jumper. I know its almost summer but cosy clothes are my weakness. The movie was pretty good, I have such a love for the marvel movies.

I’m home now and I think my plan is to write for a little, maybe start a new book. Later I’m having a FaceTime date with the girl I’m seeing.

[riversofmars]

OR Thirteen wants to marry River - her previous self did the marrying but thirteen wants to do it herself thd proper way so travels to ask the ponds permission for their daughters hand in marriage ❤️

Thank you for a brilliant prompt! It got a little out of hand but what else is new lol. River is finally getting the wedding she deserves. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Ship: River/Thirteen

Rating: G

Word count: 4500

The Wedding of River Song

“So where are we going?“ River followed the Doctor around the TARDIS console as she was setting coordinates.

“Wouldn’t be a surprise if I told you.“ The Doctor grinned and pulled the lever to set them going.

“Well, will you at least tell me how to dress?“ River pouted crossing her arms in front of her chest. Her wife usually gave her some indication as to what sort of outfit would be suitable. Turning up to a safari in an evening gown was a mistake she intended to only make once. Today, for Valentine’s Day, however, the Doctor was being very secretive indeed.

“Don’t worry about that, got that covered as well…“ The Doctor winked and River sighed:

“Sweetie…“

“Just trust me, okay? It’s not quite time for our date yet. We need to make a quick couple of stops.“ The Doctor revealed as the TARDIS landed.

“It’s Valentine’s Day and you’re telling me you’ve got some other engagements before our date?“ River retorted trying her best not to show her annoyance too much.

“Yeah. Sort of.“ The Doctor scratched the back of her head, feeling a little nervous.

“Do you see how that doesn’t exactly thrill me?“ River raised her eyebrows with a sigh. The Doctor had never been particularly good at doing romance. She had gotten a little better since she had turned into a woman. She had, after all, made the effort to save River from the Library and reunite them in linear time but romance still wasn’t her strong suit.

“Well, yes but it’s not like you’ll be waiting in the TARDIS while I arrange things… plus, you’ll have company, don’t worry, you’ll have a good time!“ The Doctor grinned at her with excitement. She was bursting to tell her what she had planned but then, it wouldn’t be a surprise. After all this time, after everything they’d been through, she deserved something special and she was determined to give it to her. She was not about to ruined it when she had gone through so much effort to make today happen.

“Doctor…“ River groaned in annoyance, all she wanted to do was go for a candle light dinner. Was that really too much to ask?

“You trust me right.“ The Doctor stepped up to her wife and took her hands in hers.

“Unfortunately.“ River rolled her eyes.

“And you love me?“ The Doctor continued, her expression hopeful.

“I’m afraid so.“ River gave her a half-smile. She just couldn’t stay angry with her for long.

“Then do this for me, for Valantine’s, trust me that I’ve got something brilliant planned, just need to sort a few things out, okay?“ The Doctor smiled pressing a kiss to the top of her hands.

“You literally have a time machine, you could have sorted all of this out before now.“ River chuckled shaking her head at her. Why was she in love with such a chaotic idiot?

“Not really, it’s complicated, you’ll see. But there is something I need you to do as well, come on.“ The Doctor pulled her along to the door.

“You are making even less sense than usual, Sweetie.“ River huffed as she followed reluctantly. They stepped out of the TARDIS and found themselves in the front room of 13 Paternoster Row in 19th century London.

“Madame Vastra?“ River looked around confused as she spotted the mistress of the house head towards her with a smile. “Jenny?“ Vastra was accompanied by her wife and maid Jenny Flint who gave them a big smile as well. They had clearly been waiting for them.

“You’re a bit late, Doctor, we’ll have to rush to make the appointment.“ Vastra scolded but not unkindly.

“Sorry, it wasn’t easy to convince her.“ The Doctor smiled apologetically.

“Appointment. What…“ River looked from Vastra to the Doctor and back again. What was going on?

“Don’t worry, Professor, we will have a wonderful time, champagne?“ Vastra offered as Jenny went to the drinks cabinet and poured three glasses.

“Well, don’t mind if I do.“ River wasn’t one to refuse a glass of champagne but she was still confused as to what was going on. “Will someone tell me what’s going on here?“ She asked as she took the glass offered to her.

“Absolutely not.“ The Doctor grinned. “I’ll see you shortly.“ She kissed her wife’s cheek and before River could argue she skipped back into the TARDIS and threw the door shut.

“I feel like I’m missing something.“ River shook her head a little to herself as she watched the TARDIS disappear.  

“Thus is the nature of surprises, Professor, but you will figure it out soon enough, I’m sure.“ Vastra smiled and took a sip of her champagne as well. “Strax, bring the carriage round, we must get going.“

——

“Is that…“ Amy stuck her head out of the kitchen. Was she imagining the wheezing and groaning noise that seemed to be coming from outside or could it be that finally, the Doctor was returning after faking his death? Rory had already walked up to the window and pushed the curtains outside to look out into the garden.

“I think it is!“ Rory looked around to her and a wide grin spread across Amy’s face.

“What are you waiting for?“ She pulled her shoes on quickly. “Come on!“ They rushed outside to find the TARDIS in their backyard.

“A whole year, Doctor…“ Amy called out when the door opened. “What…“ She lost her train of thought when she laid eyes on the blonde woman that stepped out of the blue box. Who was she? Had they been replaced?

“Ah yes, sorry, new face!“ The Doctor grinned when she realised why she was looking at her all confused. “Come here Amelia.“ Without waiting for a response she pulled Amy into a hug. “And Rory the Roman!“ She grabbed Rory by the jumper and pulled him in as well. The Ponds were too perplexed to protest.

“I… don’t understand.“ Amy looked the Doctor up and down when she pulled away. They had seen River regenerate so they knew it was very much possible, but this was a lot to take in.

“Yeah, sorry, this bit is going to be a bit complicated…“ The Doctor gave an awkward grin.

“River said you were alive, she didn’t mention you had… changed…“ Rory said trying his best to work through his shock.

“I haven’t yet, not for you, well technically… it’s complicated. You’ll see me again, the old me, about a year from now and you can’t tell him you’ve met me. Sorry. It’s just… in my time, where you are now, I can’t get to you, so I had to come to a time where I knew I wouldn’t run into myself and… I’m rambling, aren’t I, sorry, I… I’ve missed you both so much.“ The Doctor pulled them into another hug. She couldn’t put into words how much she had missed the two of them. Losing them in Manhattan had been one of the most painful experiences of her life. She knew she shouldn’t be going back in her timeline like this but she knew the Ponds wouldn’t be seeing her previous self for a while yet, the risk was relatively low. Also, there was no way she could do today without them.

“You really are… the Doctor?“ Amy grinned as the truth sank in.

“Yeah… very distant future but that doesn’t matter right now…“ The Doctor nodded.

“Have you finally, in the very distant future, realised it wasn’t very nice to keep us in the dark and waiting for so long? You better be taking us on an adventure, Doctor!“ Amy exclaimed having got over her shock. She gave her arm a playful slap.

“Yes, I am, sort of…“ The Doctor chuckled.

“Great! I’ll just grab our coats.“ Rory grinned making his way back to the house.

“But only if they’re fancy coats, you’re going to a wedding.“ The Doctor called out, stopping him in his tracks halfway down the garden path.

“Sorry, what?“ Amy didn’t know if she had heard her right and Rory came back.

“A wedding.“ The Doctor repeated. “My wedding, actually. To your daughter. She doesn’t know about it yet but… anyway, Mr Pond, how would you feel about me marrying your daughter? Again. Properly. I mean, that’s what you’re meant to do, right? According to Earth tradition, ask the father of the bride first?“ She grinned at Rory who looked back at her dumbfounded.

“I uh…“

“Okay, I’ll take that as a maybe… Amy?“ The Doctor looked to Amy hopefully who was as perplexed as her husband.

“Hang on… did you just say you want to marry River again?“ She asked, needing to confirm she was getting this right.

“Yes. Wasn’t exactly a dream wedding, was it, on top of that pyramid, in an aborted timeline and all that. River has never complained but… I did ask her a while back if she’d want to do it again, properly and she said yes, so… I mean, I didn’t exactly look my best on the day and look at me now.“ The Doctor grinned tossing her blonde hair in amusement.

“But you’re not wearing that, are you?“ Amy looked her up and down.

“What?“ The Doctor looked down herself.

“You look like you got that charming combo from a charity shop.“ Amy couldn’t help but point out.

“Well, I did.“ The Doctor retorted, she didn’t really see what was wrong with her outfit but she had anticipated this problem. “Well, I do have a suit in the TARDIS.“ She revealed. “You still haven’t said yes yet, either of you.“ She put her hands on her hips expectantly, looking back and for between her in-laws.

“Well, of course you can, you moron, let us get our Sunday best and let’s get going!“ A wide grin spread across Amy’s face. She was going to see her daughter get married!

——

“Where are we going?“ River looked out of the carriage window.

“To get you a dress of course.“ Jenny grinned with excitement.

“Well, I do have plenty of dresses, she needn’t have gone through all this trouble.“ River chuckled. “But I must admit, this is fun.“ It had been a long time since she had seen the Silurian detective and her wife, they were wonderful company.

“You haven’t got a dress like this.“ Vastra smirked and the carriage came to a halt.

“You haven’t seen the size of my wardrobe.“ River grinned but obliged and followed them out of the carriage. She nearly tripped over when her eyes fell on the shop they had stopped in front of.

“Is the penny dropping, Professor?“ Vastra laughed at the look on River’s face as they found themselves in front of a bridal store.

“You can’t be serious. She can’t be serious.“ River shook her head to herself, she couldn’t believe it. Her hearts jumped into her throat and she had to force herself to take a deep breath to calm herself. She hoped she wasn’t jumping to the wrong conclusions but how could she be?

“From what the Doctor said you have waited an awfully long time for this. Some things should be done the proper way.“ Vastra revealed confirming her assumptions. She took the professor’s hand to reassure her.

“Let’s get you a wedding dress.“ Jenny grinned and took her other hand as they walked her up to the door.

“I think I’d better, hadn’t I…“ River breathed, trying her best to keep her emotions in check.

——

“Alright, let’s get the flower arrangements done, come on people, chop chop!“ Nardole clapped his hands together.

“Who put him in charge?“ Heather mumbled and Bill laughed.

“I think it’s cause he used to work here once…“ She replied fastening the last garland of white flowers to the balustrade of the balcony.

“Just can’t get the staff these days.“ Nardole huffed carrying on with his mission to make sure everything was just right.

“Maybe that’s cause we’re not staff but the Doctor’s friends and guests?“ Clara offered ushering the next load of guests in. The guest list the Doctor had provided was quite the challenge to accomplish but what good was having a time ship if not to get your best friend’s friends together from all over time and space.

“You just see to it that you get everyone here on time.“ Nardole jabbed his finger at her making her laugh. Despite the stress of organising it all, there was a buzz of excitement in the air. Clara’s heart lifted for seeing so many familiar faces. She had seen so much of the Doctor’s past when she had been inside their time stream and she knew how important each and everyone of these people where to them.

“I think we’ve got everyone now.“ Me pointed out looking around. “A few more TARDISes wouldn’t have gone amiss though. Did we miss anyone?“ She looked to Clara who checked the guest list.

“No, I think now there is just one trip to Victorian London to do.“ She grinned. “Time to get changed!“

“This place is beautiful.“ Kate Stewart observed stepping onto the balcony accompanied by Osgood. Everyone was having a good look around before the ceremony started and the view from the balcony really was quite something.

“What is that music?“ Martha asked as she leaned onto the balustrade, marvelling at the twin towers in the distance. A mild breeze carried a melody with it leaving them in awe. The sun was just settling in the distance.

“Nobody really understands where the music comes from. It's probably something to do with the precise positions, the distance between both towers. Even the locals aren't sure.“ Everybody looked around to see the Doctor stepping out of her TARDIS. She was wearing a black tuxedo and bow tie, her expression was one of unadulterated joy as she beamed at the sight of all her friends gathered.

“Doctor!“ Bill exclaimed in excitement.

“Wow, that’s not what I expected.“ Martha was dumbfounded. Clara had told them the Doctor had changed faces but that was quite the change indeed.

“Is the tux too much?“ The Doctor asked, feeling insecure for a moment at everyone’s gaping expressions.

“No, it’s just right.“ Amy reassured her as her and Rory urged her to keep going.

“Is everybody here?“ The Doctor asked slowly as she looked around. She felt a little overwhelmed seeing everyone. So many friends that she hadn’t seen in such a long time and yet they had all wanted to come. She couldn’t express how grateful she was to all of them.

“I think we’re just waiting for the bride now.“ Tasha Lem spoke up. “How about everybody has a seat?“ She gestured to the rows of chairs to either side of the aisle.

“I best be on my way then.“ Clara grinned. “You don’t mind if we take your TARDIS, do you? Less bulky than the diner.“

“Sure, yes of course.“ The Doctor nodded with a smile as the TARDIS hummed in agreement. She couldn’t very well deny the Old Girl when River was her child in a way, too. Slowly, the Doctor walked to the front as Clara disappeared with her TARDIS. Her nerves were catching up with her now as she found herself the centre of attention. Tasha gave her an encouraging smile as the Doctor came to a halt in front of her.

“Are you quite alright, Doctor.“ She asked tilting her head a little and the Doctor forced a smile. This was a whole lot more nerve wracking than she had imagined. It had all sounded like such a great idea at the time.

“You’re not nervous are you?“ Jack teased leaning forward in his chair.

“No. I’m not nervous. Why would I be nervous. Not the first time I’m getting married, is it. This is perfectly fine, no big deal…“ The Doctor huffed trying to gather herself as she grasped her hands together in front of her to keep them still.

“Would you look at that, the Oncoming Storm, trembling in the evening breeze.“ Jack smirked.

“I’d like to see you do this.“ The Doctor shot him a glare.

“Maybe you will, one day.“ Jack laughed putting his arm around Ianto who was sitting next to him. “Or maybe you won’t, seeing as you didn’t pick me for best man…“ He feigned hurt. “Who is your best man anyway?“ He asked looking around. The Doctor was looking rather lonely standing at the front with just Tasha to officiate.

“Best lady, thank you very much.“ Missy walked along the side of the chairs towards the front checking her hair in a pocket mirror. Kate and Osgood exchanged concerned looks, Bill huffed:

“Who invited you?“

“Why, the Doctor of course.“ Missy smirked as she made her way to the front.

“Who’s that?“ Yaz asked leaning forward in her chair, sitting just behind Bill and Heather.

“That’s the Master, the Doctor’s oldest… I don’t even know what anymore…“ Bill replied. She couldn’t believe she was here and that the Doctor would actually have invited her.

“That’s not the Master…“ Graham looked on in confusion.

“Probably a younger version of the Master that you know.“ Kate explained and Ryan asked:

“What would make her invite her, she’s like her worst enemy.“

“Or oldest friend… It’s… complicated.“ Bill thought back to the time she had spent with the Doctor while he had tried to help Missy change. She couldn’t presume to understand the relationship between the Doctor and the Master. She hadn’t then and she didn’t now. But she trusted the Doctor and if she had invited her, she had done so with good reason.

“You made it.“ The Doctor stated as Missy came to a halt in front of her. She tried her best to ignore the concerned whispers amongst her friends. She had had to invite her. Things were complicated to say the least but she couldn't do this without her oldest friend. Things had gone too far with the Master she had last seen, she couldn’t forgive him, but with Missy… it had been the closest she had felt to the Master in millennia.

“Evidently.“ Missy hummed. “Well, I could hardly refuse my oldest friend.“ She looked her up and down. “You are old. Where am I in your time?“ She tilted her head, she could tell this Doctor was a whole lot older than the one she had last encountered on Skaro.

“That’s not important. I’m glad you came.“ The Doctor smiled, she didn’t want to dwell on what was yet to come for her, she just wanted to be happy for her being here.

“I wouldn’t miss the wedding of my best enemy, now, would I.“ Missy smirked as she looked at all the guest gathered on the balcony. Quite a few of them she remembered and was disappointed to find alive still. “But where is the bride?“

As if on cue, the TARDIS materialised at the far end of the aisle and the Doctor’s hearts nearly skipped their beats. The door opened and the Doctor let go the breath she was holding. It was Clara.

“No peeking, Doctor, I just need your in-laws.“ Clara grinned as she waved for the Ponds to go in while she went looking for her seat along with Vastra, Jenny and Strax.

“Clara, dear, don’t you look ravishing.“ Missy winked at Clara who turned a little pink but squared her jaw as she dropped into her seat next to Me. She wasn’t sure how she felt about the Master being here but it was the Doctor’s decision after all. The Ponds meanwhile disappeared into the TARDIS.

——

“I was gonna be cool and now I’m gonna cry.“ Rory took a deep breath, he had not been prepared for seeing his daughter in a wedding dress. They might not have been a traditional family but no matter what, she would always be his little girl, and this hit home. River was wearing a beautiful long wedding dress and her hair was pinned back with white flowers in it.

“And I thought I was going to be a mess.“ River chuckled and pulled her parents into her arms.

“Are you okay?“ Amy asked softly as they let go. She took River’s face in her hands, searching her eyes for an honest answer.

“I think so.“ River took a deep breath trying to compose herself. She couldn’t put into words how happy she was to see her parents again and how grateful she was to have them here now. It seemed as though the Doctor had put a lot of thought into planning this. The reality of it had yet to sink in. She couldn’t allow herself to think about it too much, she was worried that if she did, she would cry and ruin her make up.

“You’re not nervous are you?“ Amy chuckled.

“Where you in on all this?“ River asked, trying to wrap her head around it all.

“No, the Doctor only just picked us up! We will have to go back to our life to travel with her younger self again after this but… We wouldn’t miss this for anything in the universe.“ Amy kissed the top of her daughter’s head and gave her an encouraging smile.

“I am so glad you’re here.“ River smiled, her voice faltering just enough to betray the depth of her emotions. “So what do you think?“ She tried to play it off and took a twirl in her elegant white gown.

“Absolutely beautiful.“ Amy smiled, every inch the proud mother of the bride.  

——

“Right okay, stay cool…“ The Doctor mumbled to herself taking a deep breath.

“You’ve never been cool.“ Missy teased and the Doctor groaned in annoyance:

“Fuck off, Missy…“

“Swearing now, too, Doctor? Things have changed, I’ll say.“ Missy chuckled, delighting in the Doctor’s obvious tension.

“I’m fully expecting you to have come with some evil ploy to ruin the day… but I’m still glad you came.“ The Doctor looked to Missy hoping she understood why she had asked her here.

“Well, if I hadn’t, who would have brought you these?“ Missy sighed as she pulled out a small box. She opened it to reveal two pale wedding bands.

“That’s…“ The Doctor’s eyes widened in shocked but Missy didn’t allow her to dwell on it and get overcome by emotion.

“Dark star alloy… beats whatever pathetic excuse for wedding rings you’d planned on.“ She waved dismissively. “I mean, I only met the Professor once that time in prison but I have an eye for these things… not sure yours will fit now though, you’re much smaller than I remember.“ She grabbed the Doctor’s hand to look at her fingers.

“I’m not small! Look who’s talking.“ The Doctor huffed, she was still taller than her. “Oi!“ She pulled her hand back.

“Be back in a minute.“ Missy winked and hit the button on her vortex manipulator, disappearing into thin air.

“I swear this place must be giving off the biggest concentration of space time anomalies this side of the known universe…“ Kate shook her head to herself.

“There we are.“ Missy reappeared only seconds later. “Don’t look at me like that, what’s time travel good for if you can’t even get your best friend’s wedding ring resized.“ She smirked as she checked the rings again.

“Thank you, Missy.“ The Doctor gave her a soft smile and reached out to give her hand a squeeze. She didn’t have the words to say how much this meant to her, she could only hope she knew. Missy didn’t respond at first, she didn’t seem to know what to say, perhaps, just for a moment, she was overcome with emotion herself, so she pulled something else from her pocket to move the conversation along.

“Got you this as well, you wanted to do this properly, didn’t you.“ She handed over a scarlet ceremonial scarf to Tasha. High Gallifreyan symbols were embroiled on it in golden cross-stitch.

“That’s from home.“ The Doctor realised it was the sort of scarf used to officiate weddings on Gallifrey. With the planet destroyed she hadn’t thought it possible to find one.

“Your keen observational skills amaze me.“ Missy tried her best with a sarcastic quip but she couldn’t quite deliver it under the circumstances. “Only borrowed though, who knows, maybe I’ll want to get married one day.“ She shrugged and went to check her appearance in her pocket mirror again, ensuring she wasn’t showing any undo emotions. The Doctor, in turn, swallowed her emotions as well, they both knew how much this meant to either of them, it didn’t need saying.

“Old and burrowed.“ The Doctor smiled nodding at the ceremonial scarf. “And something new.“ She pointed to the rings in her hand and then turned her attention to the TARDIS.

“And something blue.“ Missy smiled and gave the Doctor’s hand a squeeze, allowing herself one brief moment of letting her guard down.

——

“Right, I better go and sit down. Let the father of the bride do the walking.“ Amy took a deep breath. “Do not stumble and embarrass your daughter.“ She jabbed her finger at Rory who straightened his tie.

“You just had to say that, didn’t you, now I’ll be watching my feet the whole time.“ He huffed and River chuckled.

“How about you watch out for me instead, Dad, hm?“ She looped her arm around his.

“I think I can manage that.“ Rory smiled and pressed a kiss to the side of her head. The TARDIS wheezed and hummed behind them, drawing their attention to the console. There was a bouquet of exotic flowers sat on top of it.

“She’s really thought of everything, hasn’t she…“ River said softly as Amy fetched the flowers for her and handed them over. “I can’t believe she managed to do all this and keep it from me…“

“I think she’s had a lot more help than she would admit.“ Rory chuckled as Amy left the TARDIS. “Can’t pull off a Valentine’s surprise like this without accomplices.“ He smiled to his daughter who took another deep breath struggling for composure. “Ready?“ He asked.

“Ready.“ River smiled.

——

“Try not to cry, that would be so undignified.“ Missy mumbled to the Doctor but she never even took her words in. The moment River stepped out of the TARDIS, time itself seemed to grind to a halt, at least for the Doctor. The last rays of the slow Darllian sunset caught in River’s curls and the singing of the towers seemed to pick up with the light breeze. Their eyes met down the aisle and both the Doctor and River Song smiled, they didn’t need words, they both understood. An impossibly journey had brought them to this moment, surrounded by friends and family, a moment of pure joy and love that radiated through all of time and space. The Doctor thought of the towers as she listened to their enchanting melody. They’d been there for millions of years, through storms and floods and wars and... time… as she intended for her and her wife to be.

END.

[moriemur]

recycled cashmere yarn! a jumper’s worth that I salvaged from a frumpy M&S jumper from a charity shop for like £20

process below the cut:

I found the original jumper just really boring and way too pink for my liking so decided to cannibalise it

I unpicked the seams and found the ends and unraveled them one by one with my yarn swift. There were a few breakages but not too many (cashmere is delicate and this was the day boris johnson cancelled christmas so I wasn’t being gentle)

here are the skeins I got from the jumper. they’re really thin yarns, like half the weight of lace weight, so I decided to dye them haphazardly and then ply them together on my drop spindle for a heathered effect

I threw them into a blue dye bath dry and still wound up in skeins to get as uneven coverage as possible. I wanted lots of variation in the colours. ignore the Shetland on the right, that’s the spinning project I was finishing up as I was dyeing the cashmere

I don’t have bobbins or a lazy Kate yet so I just wound them into balls by hand using my swift. this took bloody forever. it was THOUSANDS of metres. a few more breakages occurred at this stage thanks to my cat doing what cats do

using my drop spindle I took 3 balls at a time and plied them together. I got exactly the heathered effect I was going for and it matches my D&D dice

here are all the skeins lined up before I washed them to set the twist. I’m so happy with how this turned out and can’t wait to knit a new jumper with it. It’s going to be a cosy classic light by Jessie mae designs

[gayspock]

do you have any fashion tips or at least any tips on how to properly research it because im trying to get more into it but i have no idea how to figure out like what looks nice to begin with or how to style anything and every time i try to look myself i just get corporate articles trying to trick me into buying their expensive plain white shirts and idk i like your fashion sense so do you got anything

omg... flattered that ur asking me but honestly!! idk if i have any tips? personally i just kinda wear whatever i want omg 😁 i guess, like- (i'll put this under a read more?)

1. dont feel pressured to overhaul ur whole wardrobe at once or anythin like that. not just bc its mad expensive to drop a load of money like that, but honestly sometimes its just easier to feel out what u might like/dislike by going gradually. take an outfit u wear already and find sth new to add to it, for example. or sth to swap out to make it more ur own. also keeps it more dynamic- bc honestly... u will change with time, and u can overhaul ur whole wardrobe in one go but even if u rlly love it, give it a year or two and its likely its likely ur needs will change. not even just wrt style or whatever. but ik i bought a load of jumpers at once before and i barely wear jumpers any more!!! bc i get too warm nowadays and i feel suffocated in them - when i didnt before.

2. ^ carrying off of tht, i think its always useful to have some "staple" stuff, thats Sound. nice jeans that you feel comfortable in and fit well and plain shirts. you can layer them with whatever new stuff u wanna experiment with and if all fails u can go back to them. honestly if im not feelin sth loud i'll just wear jeans and a shirt i like and then wear a necklace and earrings that match and it looks put together.

3. look at other ppl's styles and dont copy them entirely but think abt wht u like and take elements of them and adapt. even if its a style completely different to urs. if u like it take the idea and remix.

4. when it comes to getting new clothes... personally i literally get like. 90% of my stuff secondhand. depop and charity shops, mostly. depop you do have to be wary with and yah it can suck on there. try to avoid putting money into scalpers' pockets (tho at the end of the day... better than a larger company, tbf) but yeah. theres other second hand online stores too that u can explore and it can take some searchin but u can find rlly nice things in there, cheaper than if u bought em straight from the shops. and with charity shops tbh just pop in whenever ur bored around town bc u never kno when u see sth nice.

5. also whenever u go to buy sth. try to imagine how you would wear it and what with. if you'd need sth else to go with it, or if you have the stuff to compliment it already; if its comfortable and practical, etc... just so u dont buy sth you'll regret. stuff can be unique looking and rlly pull you but if it is gonna just end up in the bottom of ur closet, ur gonna feel like ass and you've wasted money.

6. anyways once you've managed to integrate more specific stuff u like into ur wardrobe, then i think u can just build more on that from there over time. like if u got a rlly nice top and you've just been pairing it with the same jeans for a while, and now you know for sure ur gonna wear it a lot bc you have done so arleady, you can buy sth that might more specifically match with it and kinda build more outfits like that. :3 dont feel to boxed into wearin specific stuff with specific stuff, tho- sometimes if u just throw two random pieces u didnt think would work together, they can work together... tht happens to me a lot omg.

sorry if this is wordy!!! honestly im rlly NOT. fashionable-fashionable if u kno what i mean like idk a lot abt fashion! i just put stuff on that im personally into, and vibe. but i think honestly at the end of the day thts what you're gonna be happiest in! so... 😁

[amphtaminedreams]

If We Can’t Have the Parties, At Least We Have the Coats: Lookbook no.13

Hi to anyone reading,

It’s been a weird winter, right?

A winter that I REALLY did not need to buy as many clothes for as I have. You WILL save loads of money during this lockdown, I told myself. You WILL. And yet here I am in December, in exactly the same financial position I was in March. You would think that making the switch to an environmentally friendly wardrobe would mean I own less but now I no longer have the guilt of supporting fast fashion to hold me back, I’ve accumulated more clothes than ever. Part of a sustainable wardrobe is also about reducing your consumption so now I’ve mostly made the move towards only supporting transparent companies/small businesses, I can move onto the buying less part. I haven’t thrown any clothes away but still, I am not the clothes rescuer I think I am-more just an overdraft abuser. To add to that, for those of us actually following the rules (half the people I went to secondary school with flaunting their apparently unaffected social lives on Instagram, I’m looking at you) there aren’t actually all that many opportunities to wear new outfits. Not to go too first world problems, but it is a little shit when getting dressed up and doing your makeup is one of the things that you do to help you feel a little better, especially when the seasonal (and situational in these times) depression kicks in.

So yes, I have been extra af recently and combatted this with the decision to start making an effort to outfit plan for the most basic of tasks. We’re talking a full face of makeup and accessories for going into town to get a coffee or to meet a friend for a walk. I mean, I still go to Tesco in my trackies but if I’m seeing somebody else, I am sure as hell going to treat it as a reason to wear something nice. See the winter outfits section of the lookbook as your inspiration to do the same because I can guarantee you the sense of normality forcing yourself to take makeup off at the end of the day brings will actually make you feel a lot better. Genuinely the mark of exceptional times. We’ve also got the few days relief period over Christmas in the UK where we’re allowed to mix with a maximum of 3 other households, and ignoring the fact that it doesn’t really make any sense given that the number of people you could end up mixing with depends on the size of the households and is realistically completely arbitrary (I have a lot of feelings about how fucking moronic half the decisions this government has been making are but then again, what’s new?), I’m sure those of you with big families are gonna be partying. I’m only spending Christmas with my immediate family but I thought I’d put some more festive outfits together anyway. I know, I know, it sounds like I’m just bullshitting an explanation as to why I put this lookbook together when in reality I’m trying to make myself feel better about the damage to my bank account buuuut it really is more a case of being inspired by my Depop finds and if you are trying to quit fast fashion, I can’t recommend the app enough (especially if you know what you’re looking for). As I did in the last lookbook, I will make sure to include the tags of all the people I bought these pieces from but I also thought it might be helpful to make a note of some of the descriptors I used to find them so you can get more of an idea how to find the things you’re looking for too, as well as prices. I did include the names of the shops I bought the few fast fashion items I styled from too, mostly earlier this year or at some point over the last couple of years, on the basis that they may be a useful search prompt if you’re looking for something similar or the exact item-the majority are no longer available (disclaimer: I haven’t bought anything from Boohoo in a longgg time) to buy but you might be able to find an account that’s selling a used version. Don’t be put off by that-I’ve had to wash a couple of pieces but for the most part, that hasn’t been necessary. Charity shops usually wash things before they put them out, so you have nothing to worry about there either-I expect that they’re particularly thorough at the moment considering the COVID crisis.

Enough rambling from me for now! Enjoy!

-(SOCIALLY DISTANCED) PARTY SZN LOOKS-

Powder Blue Wide Brim Felt Hat/Fedora: £16.99

Structured White Mesh Oh Polly Mini Dress w/Ruched Detail: £27

Black PVC Beret w/Red Flame Detail: £14

Red Fit and Flare Dress w/Satin Corset & Tulle Skirt: £12

Black PVC Vintage Platform Boots w/Red Flame Detail: £27

White Satin Corset w/Straps: £8

Pinstripe Cropped Blazer Co-ord Set: £12.50

Oh Mighty Strappy Contrast Corset: £27

Contrast Check Cigarette Trousers: £15

Pink Topshop Gingham Blazer Co-ord Set BNWT: £35

White Strappy Corset w/Suspender Detail: £10

White PVC Beret w/Black Flame Detail: £14

Reworked Strappy Patchwork Sports Cropped Tee: £10

Black Combat Cargo Trousers: £5

Strappy Tie-dye Pretty Little Thing Corset BNWT: £15

PVC/Vinyl Zip-up Mini Skirt w/Belt Detail: £9

White Satin Cowl Neck Mini Slip Dress: £8

Urban Outfitters ‘90s Style Celestial Print Mesh Babydoll Dress: £15

-(SOMETIMES PRACTICAL) COAT SZN LOOKS-

UNIF Colour Block Oversized Jumper/Sweater: £25

Topshop Dark Wash Denim Kick Flare Jeans w/Frayed Hem Detail: £16

Vintage ‘70s Style Brown Faux Suede Western Blazer/Jacket: £15

Black Velvet High Neck Bodysuit w/Keyhole Detail: £4

Topshop Paisley Print Chiffon Midi Dress: £15

Brandy Melville Cropped Motorcross Slogan Slogan Tee: £13.60

Ragged Priest Gingham Cargo/Combat Trousers w/Utility Style Buckle Detailing: £33

Black Kappa Logo Beanie: £12

White Platform FILA Disruptors in Good Condition: £55

Black Fur Bucket Hat: £8

Celestial Silver Moon Detail Chain Belt: £18

Black Satin Cowl Neck Detail Midi Slip Dress: £15

Floral Print Platform Boots: £10

Blue Denim ASOS High Rise Mom Jeans: £12

Brown Vintage ‘70s Style Afghan Coat w/Fur Trim: £25

Teal Wide Brim Felt Hat/Fedora: £10

Topshop Floral Print A-Line Jacquard Mini Skirt: £7

Lana Del Rey Screen Printed T-Shirt: £9.99

Vintage Corduroy Contrast Stripe Trousers w/Kick Flare: £28

Anyone that read to the end, thank you so much as always and I hope this shows just how many in-trend pieces you can find second hand! I know I'm SUPER far behind to the point where it’s closer to the F/W2021 shows now than it is since the S/S2021 collections were showcased but I decided I am going to do a full length fashion week review. I also have a few moodboards planned and my next is gonna be one focussing purely on plus sized fashion as the feedback that I got from my New Style Icons post was that I could have included more bigger girls; I am so, so, SO passionate about body positivity and fat acceptance, especially since I know my own relationship with my body would be so much better if this kind of movement was more prominent when I was younger, so I don’t for a minute want anyone to think it was my intention to be exclusionary in any way. It bears repeating that I genuinely appreciate feedback in any form (as long as it’s not too mean and presumptive, lol) and I hope the next post doesn’t disappoint! It hasn’t been a good year for cinema due to COVID having lead to theatre closures, however I still do want to do another film tier ranking in the new year as that is something I really enjoyed doing last time. Any more suggestions are welcome!

As always, my inbox is always open if you need someone to talk to or just wanna chat about a post:-) I am constantly on the look out for new blogs to follow and people to interact with so any communication is welcome. I’m not sure if I’ll get another post finished before we enter 2021, SO I wanna say that I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and that this shitshow of a year DOES come to an end at 11:59PM on the 31st because THOSE MEMES ABOUT IT TURNING DECEMBER THE 32ND ARE NOT FUNNY! Here’s to our second attempt at our first year of the roaring twenties (because this past year it feels like we skipped them and went straight to The Great Depression, the likely incoming recession denial is real) and to happier times and good health for everyone.

Lauren x

DISCLAIMER: Background in the first 2 images are mine, others are not. I found them on Pinterest so not sure of the artists but if you do know, drop me a message so I can credit them!

[a-magpies-dream]

05~05~19: East London Vintage Kilo Sale

£2.50 entry + £14 for clothes

If you’ve never been to a kilo sale before, essentially how they work is you fill up a bag of clothes and instead of them being priced individually, you pay by the kilo. I think at this sale it was around £15 per kilo – it’s also worth remembering that just because it says ‘kilo’ in the title it doesn’t mean you have to buy a kilo. You just pay for the weight of your items. So, if you’re clever and realise that you’ll be able to pick up more lighter items for a kilo than heavier items, you could come away with lots of blouses and scarves for £1 or less each!

Embroidered floral cotton jumper

~Flowers have always been a visual source that I have referenced in everything from my photography and graphic design work to my wardrobe. I don’t really know why I have such a strong affinity with them, but I do know why I had to have this jumper. When you scour vintage stores or charity shops, it can be hard to find jumpers that aren’t super itchy. This beauty is made from cotton yarn so is an absolute dream to wear. Aside from that the design of the flower embellishments is just so pretty and I love how it continues onto the back.

Stripy 70s-esque jumper

~I get a lot of clothing inspiration from the seventies, and so this beige and white vertically striped jumper just felt like a classic seventies piece that I needed in my wardrobe.

Hand-painted skirt

~So, when I picked this skirt up the elastic waistband was not only too big but was coming apart. But I loved the fabric too much to leave it, so it became a project. I unpicked the old waistband casing and made a new one, inserting new elastic (who says A Level Fashion isn’t useful?). I love how it turned out, now I’ve just got to figure out how to style it.

[blu-joons]

SEASONS BTS HEADCANON ~ Jeon Jungkook

Summer

Jungkook loves beach days, being able to make the most of the long, hot weather that made him so happy and relaxed

The two of you loved to make cocktails together in your back garden, trying all sorts of different things

“I don’t know what you’ve put in here, but it’s gone right to my head Kook, that’s a crazy one.”

Dates were always outside doing fun activities, either the fun fair or a festival, or something along those lines

He wasn’t afraid to walk around with his top off and flex his muscles on you

“Y/N, do I look good? Look at me, tell me how good I look.”

Spending time with your families is something he loves to do, inviting everyone to your home

His hair is usually short during the summer to stop him getting so hot

You have to work hard to convince him to not wear black clothes in the heat

“Going to a concert in black in this weather is asking for trouble, at least put your grey tee on, save yourself a little bit.”

Travelling is one of your favourite things to do, exploring the world in the beautiful weather

Late night walks are beautiful, Jungkook loves to snap photos as you walk around as the night draws in

He’s like a big kid sometimes, especially when he hears the ice cream van coming down your street

Summers are about being with your friends, you and the boys are always doing things

 Autumn

He loves to explore when the leaves fall and photograph all the different colours

Halloween is huge for Jungkook, he loves to get involved and decorate the house

“I was thinking about putting some fake blood up the garden path, what do you reckon?”

The two of you have a tradition of going pumpkin picking, and having competitions as to who can carve the best pumpkin

A lot of your evenings are spent exploring firework displays, again, with Jungkook attached to his camera to snap photos

Late nights are often spent out in your garden, lighting bonfires and toasting marshmallows

“I’m so cold, it’s a good job you decided on putting this fire on tonight.”

It’s his favourite time of year, as the weather gets cooler and the winter sets in, he loves pulling his big jumpers back out of his wardrobe

It never mattered about the weather, you’d often go on walks, you’d slip on your wellies or raincoats and go out and explore

The two of you love collecting leaves and twigs, making garlands and wreaths to scatter around the house

“That’s really cute Y/N, maybe you could regift it for Christmas, Namjoonie loves things like this.”

Every year you’d both buy a new blanket to snuggle under through the cold weather

He loves to get you on ghost walks and horror houses, but it’s not your favourite thing at all

Kook loves to spend evenings watching the gorgeous sunsets, snapping plenty of photos

 Winter

Jungkook is big on Christmas, and spending time with his family, it’s his most treasured time of year

On the off chance it snows, he turns into a big kid, throwing snowballs at you and building snowmen

“I’m going to name this one Jimin, he’s about the same height as him anyway.”

Spending cosy nights by the fire makes him incredibly happy, it’s his favourite time

He loves to wear his big, thick, woolly clothes in the winter, keeping himself nice and snug

The cold weather often inspires him, as he spends time indoors, writing plenty of lyrics for the band

“I’ve written a song inspired by that family we saw out sledging at the park yesterday, it’s weird what can get the creative juices flowing sometimes.”

Exploring, again, is one of his favourite things, taking pictures of all the things winter brings

Being able to spend nights with you makes him very happy, doing lots of crafty things

The best day of the year is putting up the Christmas decorations, giving you a leg up to put the star on the tree

His hair usually grows during the cold weather to keep him warm, as well as knowing how much you love it

“Can you lay beside me for a while? Just so I can play with your hair.”

With the rainy weather, his romantic side definitely comes out, taking you out for a dance, making sure to record it

 Spring

During spring, he loves to rise early, it’s the only season he does for, so he can see the sunrise

It’s often about new beginnings, so he tries to start at least one new hobby in time for spring

“This year I’ve decided to take up cooking, it’s about time someone gave Jin hyung a helping hand in the kitchen.”

The garden is well looked after, he likes to buy new plants to let grow and take pictures of

Heading out for walks, picnics in the park, just enjoying the fresh air again is great fun

Going out running and swimming in the pool restarts for him as the weather warms up once again

Just being able to walk around the house without being freezing cold is a great relief to him

He likes to go out for food, and be able to sit on the tables outside of the restaurant and watch the world go by

“Look at that guy over there, looks like his wife has bought the whole shop and he’s the one who’s got to carry it.”

You’d often find him sat in the garden listening to the birds, sketching little doodles of whatever was before him

Spring usually called for a spring clean from you, even if Jungkook just sat around, watching you do it all

“Jungkook, can you move, I’ve got a pile of clothes just by your foot that need to go to the charity shop.”

The two of you love looking through the spring sales, changing up your wardrobe and helping each other find new clothes

Masterlist