KATBERRIES: lifestyle

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/ 14 December 2016 / Leave a comment

CHRISTMAS JUMPERS I'D MERRILY WEAR

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8OTpl2StK62vwirvD29pkvm_cdlGVRuwH6GDb09ZY1yU2drHtoxpAtP5RF_mcGkN8SfrOMVo067lmVJQW2g-XB7F_UZSGrcLYAyFtbj0Yf1Dppa5l7Dtd-Nh1v4r4DOpUWm5ZJaRMak/s2232/top+christmas+jumper+2551.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8OTpl2StK62vwirvD29pkvm_cdlGVRuwH6GDb09ZY1yU2drHtoxpAtP5RF_mcGkN8SfrOMVo067lmVJQW2g-XB7F_UZSGrcLYAyFtbj0Yf1Dppa5l7Dtd-Nh1v4r4DOpUWm5ZJaRMak/s2232/top+christmas+jumper+2551.jpg" /></a>
 
Do you do Christmas jumpers? I love them. Or, more precisely, I love the idea of them as my Christmas jumper count currently stands at 0. I know. 
 
We don't really have a tradition of Christmas jumpers - on Christmas Eve when we have a big festive dinner and then also for lunch on Christmas day we dress up in nice, fancy-ish clothes to celebrate the special occasion. So you see, a very casual Christmas jumper doesn't fit the dress code, however many sequins it may have. 
 
Still, watching Christmas TV, baking or wrapping presents certainly packs a bigger punch when accompanied by a festive jumper (sweater for my American friends... You knew that). However - here comes the twist - I won't be satisfied with any sort of jumper. It appears I'm somehow particular, because nothing the (physical) shops are offering is catching my fancy. Instead, I have to rely on the internet - the trouble being that once I find something I love it's, more often than not, sold out, doesn't actually have an online shop or ships for extortionate amount of money (or, let's face it, costs an extortionate amount of money). 
 
So while I'm biding my time I've complied a (wish) list of the jumpers I do like. The top picks amongst the top pics are: 
1. cream jumper with tiny green tree pattern (primark), 
2. the crazy red one below it that's actually a sweatshirt, 
3. the pink and red one next to it that isn't limited to Christmas use (and one could argue it's therefore not a proper Christmas jumper but hell, it was in the Christmas secion of the website so one can kindly shut up) 
4. sausage dogs in Christmas jumpers (primark) 
5. candy canes 
6. and perhaps the closest contender to #1 is navy blue jumper with a string of baubles (warehouse) 
 
Do you wear festive jumpers come Christmas time? What styles do you like? 
 
 
Here are the links to those that aren't sold out yet: <a href="https://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.boden.co.uk%2Fen-gb%2Fwomens-knitwear%2Fknitted-jumpers%2Fwv128-ivo%2Fwomens-ivory-bauble-jumper&pid=uid6400-30551420-82">cream with string of baubles</a>, <a href="https://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww2.hm.com%2Fen_gb%2Fproductpage.0390642005.html&pid=uid6400-30551420-82">I'm not a chicken</a>, <a href="https://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hm.com%2Fus%2Fproduct%2F32092%3Farticle%3D32092-I%26cm_vc%3DSEARCH&pid=uid6400-30551420-82">crazy red sweatshirt is n/a but here are pants</a>, <a href="https://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.boden.co.uk%2Fen-gb%2Fwomens-knitwear%2Fknitted-jumpers%2Fwv124-ppk%2Fwomens-velveteen_beatnik-red-iris-jumper&pid=uid6400-30551420-82">pink and red</a>, <a href="https://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww2.hm.com%2Fen_gb%2Fproductpage.0390642006.html&pid=uid6400-30551420-82">red sweater</a>, <a href="https://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hm.com%2Fus%2Fproduct%2F55940%3Farticle%3D55940-B%26cm_vc%3DSEARCH&pid=uid6400-30551420-82">Ho-ho-ho</a>, <a href="https://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?id=605967837&pid=uid6400-30551420-82">bunnies</a>, <a href="http://www.sugarhillboutique.com/xm16/jolly-sweater.aspx">jolly</a>, <a href="https://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hm.com%2Fus%2Fproduct%2F52662%3Farticle%3D52662-H%26cm_vc%3DSEARCH%23article%3D52662-H&pid=uid6400-30551420-82">candy canes</a>, <a href="http://www.warehouse-london.com/row/clothing/jumpers-and-cardigans/pom-pom-jumper/026993.html?dwvar_026993_color=99&position=13#q=christmas%2Bjumper&start=1">not in the pictures but this one is great too</a>

Christmas, fashion, good things, lifestyle, wishlist

CHRISTMAS JUMPERS I'D MERRILY WEAR

Do you do Christmas jumpers? I love them. Or, more precisely, I love the idea of them as my Christmas jumper count currently stands at...

/ 17 June 2016 / Leave a comment

NEW CAMERA LENS 50MM F 1.8 / FIRST IMPRESSIONS

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyUJ-bE65MCAy-7eW2eTAUFl1Qsl3GCV9WIoJpXA82oqIqqH71ZuMReOnShmWL36BbBLMZDh3e3Wzggy1y8qmAiiialHz7pXutzD9XgpEXTQuT_JZhIh383ysej1nqtLW3M8k5J-zyYnk/s1600/01.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyUJ-bE65MCAy-7eW2eTAUFl1Qsl3GCV9WIoJpXA82oqIqqH71ZuMReOnShmWL36BbBLMZDh3e3Wzggy1y8qmAiiialHz7pXutzD9XgpEXTQuT_JZhIh383ysej1nqtLW3M8k5J-zyYnk/s1600/01.JPG" /></a> 
 
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
NIKKOR AF-S F/1.8</h4>
When I mentioned on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BF4Q2msqtDU/?taken-by=katberries">instagram</a> that I decided to upgrade my camera lens, a few of my insta friends asked me to share the results. I've wanted to get a new lens for the past two years, so you can imagine my excitement. If not, it went like this: 🎉 💃 😍 
 
In this post we'll be talking about: 
 
<ol>
<li>Technical specs (if you don't care for this feel free to skip): why I wanted a prime lens, a big warning to cropped sensor camera owners and a good, easy tip for picking the focal length that's best for you</li>
<li>Testing the lens - first impressions</li>
<li>First conclusions</li>
</ol>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
LET'S GET TECHNICAL</h4>
While the kit lens (18-55mm) was good enough, I wanted something with better light sensitivity. Also, lately the kit lens has been playing up and it seems a small part is loose inside (I may have accidentally banged it one too many times). My camera is a low range DSLR, which means the autofocus feature is in the lens, not the body - which in turn means that if I didn't want to lose autofocus altogether, my choices were limited. I knew I wanted a prime lens (a lens of fixed focal length). 
My reasons were: 
 
<ol>
<li>generally speaking, prime lenses have better light sensitivity</li>
<li>they're smaller</li>
<li>they're lighter</li>
<li>they're cheaper</li>
<li>they're cool</li>
</ol>
 
I was kind of set on a 50mm, with it being reviewed as a nice all rounder. Good for outdoors and indoors, you don't have to be too close, nor too far from the object. It's the lens that gives the "most real" view. (If you look through the camera, the distance is more or less similar to real life view. 75mm will look as if you zoomed in.) 
 
Now we get to the nitty gritty part. Because there is a big BUT coming. If you look through the photography advice forums and articles, a lot of them forget to mention this - 50mm lens is a "real-life" lens on a full frame camera. If you have a lower range/entry level DSLR like I do, chances are it has a cropped sensor. A 50mm lens doesn't actually act like a 50mm on a cropped sensor camera. Cropped sensors (APS-C) have a magnification factor, which means you have to multiply the lens' focal length by 1.5 for Nikon and 1.6 for Canon. Quick maths reveals that on this kind of camera, a 50mm lens will act like a 75mm. Ah-oh. 
 
A great tip if you're deciding between focal lengths is to take your kit lens, set it to the mm value you're thinking about getting, perhaps it is 75mm, and look through the viewfinder without ever zooming in our out. Take some snaps if you like, then set the lens to 50mm and repeat. Then to 35mm. I found this to be a really quick and painless decision maker for me. 
 
I wanted real life-like view, so with cropped sensor and magnification factor in mind, this turned out to be a 35mm (which would be 52.5mm with full frame). I wanted an f/1.4 but that lens is like triple the price so f/1.8 will have to do. It's still a huge improvement from my f/4 kit lens. 
Okay! Now let's get to the fun part- testing. 
 
 
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4sOBpxPcbm3yvuvJ88HZNqLy6JBQaKAgYZJWoe8lhJyJxqAJhSdh2qqhU0Zup9qZDh_VXTi0Doeq-qvShySMy-9_eT4QOtjkwTLFPAiR_XMl3QwQt2kXM6xgzmPtaWct-rqle9_eGiA/s1600/02.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4sOBpxPcbm3yvuvJ88HZNqLy6JBQaKAgYZJWoe8lhJyJxqAJhSdh2qqhU0Zup9qZDh_VXTi0Doeq-qvShySMy-9_eT4QOtjkwTLFPAiR_XMl3QwQt2kXM6xgzmPtaWct-rqle9_eGiA/s1600/02.JPG" /></a> 
 
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
FIRST IMPRESSIONS</h4>
Straight away, I wanted to test the low apertures. I set the camera to the lowest it can go - 1.8 - and shot a few things around the garden. I'm impressed! I can focus on the one thing that I want to be sharp and the blur sets the scene nicely. This is great for outfit shots (hello fellow bloggers) but also for any photo where you want to make sure one thing really stands out. 
 
Like in the photo below, the rose is the spotlight stealer while background is just blurry colours - you can't make it out. This may be the kitschiest show I've ever taken. 
 
 
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PjyNAW6qJBWBFnTHe8Bdg-db7RwO9tEM1Ua3wZz9nvgrWlotFRXZDjvRZnjxBoIZlndyfFeYp4umvG8_NXONCZVBF4tqxJUwf2MZYCLr2r5o3FCUPN6s2nK_KhmMgLvx2isaongVy5s/s1600/06.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_PjyNAW6qJBWBFnTHe8Bdg-db7RwO9tEM1Ua3wZz9nvgrWlotFRXZDjvRZnjxBoIZlndyfFeYp4umvG8_NXONCZVBF4tqxJUwf2MZYCLr2r5o3FCUPN6s2nK_KhmMgLvx2isaongVy5s/s1600/06.JPG" /></a>

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidkieN_MjW0OSP9hqMq25FDqrUjdlI_20EKnyw4FdNWxCvXum1IgvYmZW2qdJweJc1L3gkl03UZcSLpRV5IYqS-4EGer3vlldEr-_GXc3Rm1wjnR6Fuhd46FlMWz3C_AlapOyv7GiXg6s/s1600/04.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidkieN_MjW0OSP9hqMq25FDqrUjdlI_20EKnyw4FdNWxCvXum1IgvYmZW2qdJweJc1L3gkl03UZcSLpRV5IYqS-4EGer3vlldEr-_GXc3Rm1wjnR6Fuhd46FlMWz3C_AlapOyv7GiXg6s/s1600/04.JPG" /></a>
 
 
This little birdie was learning to fly and while he gathered his strength in between attempts, I was able to get close and snap a couple of shots. 
 
The shiny cake was something I whipped up last weekend. Lemon with surprise in the middle and orange + mint glaze. Yum. 
 
Below, my mum is playing with clay and making a dish that will be a present for my cousin's wedding this summer. The dish the cake is on is also made by her. 
 
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3m5R6WfAVmF7QHhi8GJ2TyqDEz20t8xFNUO4tXo_lpGsP9Ft3_H9zfe3M9m1wA-_juFetEyPpefU3yWgtlU02JYwP06-pcoBN4Zbr4M68KVOph_3ZnFcR7ExcRFU_rKb6T9cB7X4w9LU/s1600/05.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3m5R6WfAVmF7QHhi8GJ2TyqDEz20t8xFNUO4tXo_lpGsP9Ft3_H9zfe3M9m1wA-_juFetEyPpefU3yWgtlU02JYwP06-pcoBN4Zbr4M68KVOph_3ZnFcR7ExcRFU_rKb6T9cB7X4w9LU/s1600/05.JPG" /></a>

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlSB3UFXHDmbsL6kEv7VYzUFrn4RYcCtfBos1ekWpY1uriufXPRggjoFdugRNLMkQBDSIvcXoodwgmdfhnbXh0ElnLZyidiEZz6WNkTt-5muWenETShfsxIR2ZZ-Pwx_XQInog-SoOQQ/s1600/09.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlSB3UFXHDmbsL6kEv7VYzUFrn4RYcCtfBos1ekWpY1uriufXPRggjoFdugRNLMkQBDSIvcXoodwgmdfhnbXh0ElnLZyidiEZz6WNkTt-5muWenETShfsxIR2ZZ-Pwx_XQInog-SoOQQ/s1600/09.JPG" /></a>
 
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
FIRST CONCLUSIONS</h4>
I still have to work on my manual focus skills and figuring out what aperture is best for what shot, but overall, I am in love. Heart eye emoji love. The lens is everything I expected it to be and it got me excited for photography all over again. It makes totally trivial things look interesting. 
 
I've since taken photos for an <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BGoXsd2qtJf/?taken-by=katberries">upcoming summer project</a> (the photo session turned into a work out), new in skincare products, new in make up products and couple new things I got for my summer wardrobe. They all look great, if I do say so myself. My camera is less bulky and the lack of zoom hasn't been a problem yet. I can't wait to try it with outfit shots, just as soon as I can convince my mum to take some <img alt="😉" class="emoji" draggable="false" src="http://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/72x72/1f609.png" style="background-color: white; background-image: none; border: none; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #494949; display: inline; font-family: "open sans", helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.2px; line-height: 23.4px; margin: 0px 0.07em; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: -0.1em; width: 1em;" />. I am an advocate for low aperture (as long as it's not just the tip of your nose that's in focus) and so far, I'm finding the lens an absolute dream. 
 
What lens are you using for blog or life photos? What do you like about it? Do you prefer prime or zoom lenses? 
 
P. S. The goats say hello.

good things, lifestyle

NEW CAMERA LENS 50MM F 1.8 / FIRST IMPRESSIONS

NIKKOR AF-S F/1.8 When I mentioned on instagram that I decided to upgrade my camera lens, a few of my insta friends asked me to share t...

/ 16 May 2016 / Leave a comment

SENSITIVE SKIN SKINCARE ROUTINE

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFFYRy_vUlrZ9nDF-9_AD3UmEGxc1hqNPUdynWakvNZvKsdO_PFf8hFS2bMvNyJ8bLQNru3EiSMUqUv_kkNycvcG_p8DNmVR_U2AW1B1O43hXMLPr-tMCpWTvjuMbjkTe6yXz9PANr1LM/s1600/skin1b.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFFYRy_vUlrZ9nDF-9_AD3UmEGxc1hqNPUdynWakvNZvKsdO_PFf8hFS2bMvNyJ8bLQNru3EiSMUqUv_kkNycvcG_p8DNmVR_U2AW1B1O43hXMLPr-tMCpWTvjuMbjkTe6yXz9PANr1LM/s1600/skin1b.jpg" /></a> 
 
I don't normally talk beauty and I've never talked skincare - it's totally not my area of expertise. But I like reading lifestyle content and everybody needs a little break from outfits now and then, so I thought I'd share my current skincare routine. 
 
I haven't mentioned it here on the blog, but I've been undergoing skin treatment with Roaccutane. For those of you who aren't familiar, it's a prescription drug from your dermatologist designed to treat acne. This is my second time on it. Most patients only have to use it once, but I guess I'm unlucky like that. It can have some scary side effects. The most noticeable thing straight away is that it dries out your skin, lips, eyes, even nose. A moisturiser becomes your best friend. 
 
It does have one significant perk though, which is that your hair just does not get greasy. If you have or have ever had oily hair you know how annoying it can be! I wash my hair once a week now and that's only because my scalp starts to get too dry. My shampoo consumption has lowered significantly <img alt="😉" class="emoji" draggable="false" src="http://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/72x72/1f609.png" style="background-color: white; background-image: none; border: none; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #494949; display: inline; font-family: 'open sans', helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.2px; line-height: 23.4px; margin: 0px 0.07em; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: -0.1em; width: 1em;" />. 
 
But I've got my skincare routine down now (I'm on the last month of the drugs too) and I've definitely had less dry patches than the first time around, so if you've got dry skin too, this is for you. I gots my routine down! 
 
The products I use are: 
Bioderma Sébium Hydra Moisturiser - morning and evening after washing my face. It's a good texture and feels great on the skin. It looks a bit greasy but only for the first few minutes before it sinks in. 
 
Mary Kay Skinvigorate brush - perhaps part of the reason my flare ups were so bad was bad cleansing technique. Nobody told me how to properly cleanse my skin and I never thought I was doing it wrong. Oh boy. This brush, or really any brush of this kind makes your skin feel so smooth and refreshed. I use it a few times a week (the way you'd use peeling) with the La Roche gel. 
 
Biopha Micellar Water - I'm not too familiar with this brand but it's organic which is great. Just a nice micellar water to cleanse and/or remove my makeup with. 
 
La Roche Posay Gel Demaquillant Physiologique - I got this on clearance only to realise that it's been discontinued, however this is the best gel cleanser I've ever had. It's made to remove makeup but I use it with my Skinvigorate brush and it's an absolute beauty of a product. You only need a little bit and it lasts a long time, I've had mine for over 6 months and it's only half gone. I really don't know what I'll do when I run out, the new version isn't nearly as good. I think this is good for any skin type and I find it's the only gel that doesn't dry my skin out. Can you tell I love this product? 
 
Ziaja eye cream - I don't know if this has any effect but it's quite nice so I'm testing it for now. Itś part of my evening routine, I pat it in around the eye and feel really pretentious doing so. 
 
La Roche Posay Gel Moussant Purifiant - This is a sample that I use when I travel. It's meant for problematic skin and smells really nice and not too perfume-y. Perhaps this might replace my big love, the gel physiologique? 
 
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQCnrNaVgvEExACP-DRqQkHWRCgizIcbPL3b2zuyVaX8onyzzuIMMZ36_TMlHpJLGzjE5Ur9vGimE7j1WQbohYph5Jl1E_OkpzsX2CEPryaWXzeH_UBDfLXflixmHgu-ROzaKfdLJhs0/s1600/skin2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQCnrNaVgvEExACP-DRqQkHWRCgizIcbPL3b2zuyVaX8onyzzuIMMZ36_TMlHpJLGzjE5Ur9vGimE7j1WQbohYph5Jl1E_OkpzsX2CEPryaWXzeH_UBDfLXflixmHgu-ROzaKfdLJhs0/s1600/skin2.jpg" /></a> 
 
So that's it for my current skincare routine. Oh, except for Bio Oil that I got a couple months ago but just now started using every day. We'll see if it improves any of my scars as it says after the recommended 3 months. 
 
What's a skin product you swear by? Do you prefer high end or high street skincare products? 
I only fear I'm going to have to change my routine again soon, because after I take my last Roaccutane pill, my skin is slowly going to go back to its oilier stage. So any recs on what works for oily skin and doesn't break it out? Any recs that don't require me to spend all my monies?

beauty, beauty routine, lifestyle

SENSITIVE SKIN SKINCARE ROUTINE

I don't normally talk beauty and I've never talked skincare - it's totally not my area of expertise. But I like reading lifest...

/ 05 May 2016 / Leave a comment

9 GREAT TV SHOWS

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglgSoY1Hn4OwEi9GJgqDWO_pbWDv3sfNaGcJVlkTOB0pReea67_ca0RSGwtU-5zP7APW2xj1_df3msPnBEq0ohLHKzFXuUGVuRxY3MjIa2h2YYnI3YMDaSa5waeEXJPM6P_3bv5HQ7IAs/s1600/web+IMG_3122.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglgSoY1Hn4OwEi9GJgqDWO_pbWDv3sfNaGcJVlkTOB0pReea67_ca0RSGwtU-5zP7APW2xj1_df3msPnBEq0ohLHKzFXuUGVuRxY3MjIa2h2YYnI3YMDaSa5waeEXJPM6P_3bv5HQ7IAs/s1600/web+IMG_3122.jpg" /></a> 
 
I like movies as much as the next girl, but what really gets my heart beating is TV. Good TV, that is. (Okay okay you got me, I do have some guilty pleasures...that I shan't feature here <img alt="😉" class="emoji" draggable="false" src="http://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/72x72/1f609.png" style="background-color: white; background-image: none; border: none; box-shadow: none; box-sizing: border-box; color: #494949; display: inline; font-family: 'open sans', helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; height: auto; letter-spacing: 0.2px; line-height: 23.4px; margin: 0px 0.07em; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: -0.1em; width: 1em;" />.) To me, the basis of good TV is great camera and editing, good direction and acting and very importantly, great script. This together makes for high production value and sets the show up for success straight off the bat. Us viewers, we'll believe anything, as long as it's well executed. 
 
I don't discriminate any genres so you'll find a mix of things on this list, but I believe all of them make for great TV, each for their specific reason. Here goes! 
 
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWGzCzDYhYLiofS7B4zM3GVciyCG8xO1g09plDx2ocxtiWU3AYRmJzH-itZ8_bEbpMj0mtTTAA4HEXg_Wscq_5PXBxCvA__sGXbSJ377VZZ5hifIgA9OQbgFeZOjCKZsmD_qWnvm3cNA/s1600/1+the+killing+3.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWGzCzDYhYLiofS7B4zM3GVciyCG8xO1g09plDx2ocxtiWU3AYRmJzH-itZ8_bEbpMj0mtTTAA4HEXg_Wscq_5PXBxCvA__sGXbSJ377VZZ5hifIgA9OQbgFeZOjCKZsmD_qWnvm3cNA/s1600/1+the+killing+3.jpg" /></a> 
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
THE KILLING</h4>
I watched the US version before I learned it was adapted from a Danish TV show, but unlike some adaptation attempts, this one is good. I might go as far as to say that I prefer it. (<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/tvandradioblog/2014/aug/05/why-i-prefer-us-version-the-killing-danish-original-forbrydelsen">And I'm not the only one</a>.) 
 
This is a crime show, with dark and twisted undertones. It's set in Seattle and couldn't be further from your usual CSI stuff. I love it for the same reason we all loved Serial: the whole season investigates just one crime. The pace is good and so is the plot. The show centres around a female-male cop duo, Linden and Holder, whose personalities are seemingly incompatible, but actually work. Linden has some serious noir charisma. It may sound like a cliché but it's not, it's very well made and very high on my list of great TV. 
 
Watch if: you like clever and well made who done it stories. If you loved Serial. If Seattle's atmosphere appeals to you. If you're in the mood for something a little dark. 
 
Best season: 1, without a doubt. But all 4 are worth watching, you can find them on <a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/70180183">Netflix</a>. 
 
 
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
OUTLANDER</h4>
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Closely based on a same name book by Diana Gabaldon, I'd resisted this show for a while. The premise: a woman travels in time 2 centuries back did not sound appealing. I don't care much for time travel stuff, but Outlander is way more than that. Plus, the costumes are amazing.</div>
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After World War II, Clare and her estranged husband Frank travel to Scotland for their second honeymoon. Frank is interested in genealogy and studies his family tree. Clare accidentally travels through time to 18th century Scotland. Are you bored yet? If so, stay with me anyway. Apart from the great costumes, you'll learn about life in the Highlands and about the clans culture that died out after the battle of Culloden. You'll learn about Jacobites, all in a very gripping period drama way. You can count on beautiful settings and good acting, especially from Sam Heughan who plays Jamie, the handsome man in the photo.</div>
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Watch if: you like period pieces, Scotland, Sam Heughan, history and even time travel. If you want to know what life may have looked like almost 300 years ago.</div>
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Best season: with only 1 full season out, it's too soon to tell. New episodes every Saturday. There are about 10 books in the series though, so hopefully we have at least 5 more seasons to look forward to.</div>
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P.S. I downloaded the audiobook after finishing the first season. I'm now finishing the 2nd audiobook in the series (they are 45 hours each after all) and the reader Davina Porter is nothing short of brilliant. I highly recommend that too!</div>
 
 
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
MAD MEN</h4>
My list wouldn't be complete without the (in my opinion) best TV show of all time (though there are close seconds), Mad Men. I'm assuming you've all heard about it, so I'll keep it brief. If you've not watched this, don't hesitate (and also I'm jealous because watching a great TV show for the first time is a wonderful experience). It covers everything from politics, advertising, the American dream, sexism at the workplace, sexism in general, feminisim, fashion...I could go on. Watch it, fall in love with Don, you won't regret it. I think. 
 
Watch if: you want to be my friend. And if you're feeling like taking a peek into life in the 60s in the US. Also if you love advertising. 
 
Best season: too hard to pick. There's 7 of them and every season has unique value. The show doesn't slack. (I still haven't watched the final few episodes, I'm savouring them - I don't want this to be over! So no spoliers, I beg you!) 
 
 
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
FLESH AND BONE</h4>
Everybody loves ballet. This is the dark side of it. And the show's all better for it. This title is little known and there is only one season with 8 episodes, I don't think starz plans on making more (this is my official appeal to Netflix to pick it up). Claire comes to NYC to audition for a ballet company. She has a secret and she's doing her best to keep it together. A lot of beautiful ballet inbetween. (And the lead actress is stunning and perfect in the role.) 
 
Watch if: you like White Swan to Black Swan pieces. If you love ballet and aren't too squeamish. 
 
Best season: n/a. But, Netflix, you got this. 
 
 
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
RITA</h4>
Let's lighten it up a bit. I present you Rita, a niche TV show. Why niche? Well, because it's Danish, which means subtitles. Yup, I know I've already put some of you off, but it's worth the read! Rita is unlike any other show I know, precisely because of its country of origin. The episodes are shorter and Rita is a true character. But I'm jumping ahead. 
 
Rita is a rebellious school teacher and a single mom of 3 almost grown up kids. We get to see both of these worlds. She's unconventional, but has integrity. She quickly grows on you as you follow her through her ups and downs. This wouldn't normally be up my street but something about the show keeps me watching. It isn't a big production, but it works. 
 
Watch if: you're looking for good international TV. If you like Denmark and/or Danish. If you want to understand teachers better or if you're just looking for a new TV experience. It isn't revolutionary, but it is refreshing. 
 
Best season: 1 or 2. All 4 seasons available on <a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/70285368">Netflix</a>. 
 
 
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
YOUNGER</h4>
I've never heard of TV Land before but this show's put it on the map. The premise rings true: a 40 year old woman wants to get back to work after being a house wife and raising her kid for the past 18 years. Naturally, nobody wants to hire her. That's when she decides to fake it and be 26 again. And oh boy can she (pretty much) pass for it! This obviously comes with its own set of problems. Pretending to be in her twenties is fun but also pretty exhausting for Liza. To shorten it up: there's a very handsome boy and Hilary Duff acts as Liza's colleague/friend. If you like Hilary, great! If not, don't let that put you off. 
 
And, I can't not say this, the wardrobe here is ah-mazing. The stylist is Patricia Field. Rings a bell? You probably know her from Sex and the City (!!) 
 
Watch if: you're in the mood for comedy. Lord knows I've not included much of that on this list. Also watch for tips on how to look 14 years younger, as the actress playing Liza actually is 40. You'd never have guessed. 
 
Best season: Only 2 seasons out right now. They're both pretty great. 
 
 
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
3 MORE SUGGESTIONS</h4>
The Fall: Another dark and twisty crime show focusing on just one perp. British. Jamie Dornan. 
 
The Walking Dead: Yes of course. If you sum up this show in one sentence, it does not to it justice. I don't like zombie stuff. I love this show. But like I said, I'll eat up whatever you serve me, as long as it tastes good. (A bit inappropriate to mix food and zombies but after 6 seasons I'm immune.) 
 
First Dates: The only reality TV I'll watch. The format is so popular it got picked up in Australia as well as in the US (by Ellen DeGeneres!). It's blind dates on TV. Two people meet for the first time in the First Dates Restaurant. It's in London, it's a stone's throw away from Saint Paul's and it's full of awkward, glad-this-is-not-me moments. Also fun and aw moments. Each episode shows you 5 or so couples. So, so interesting to see how people act and behave in this real situation. 
 
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By now you can probably tell I love TV. So do leave me your own recommendations, I'm in a desperate need for something new! 
Let me know if you try any of these 9 shows or what you thought about them if you've already seen them. 
 
P.S. If you're wondering why GoT isn't on the list, it's because I'm not a fan. Sorry! I gave it a go, I don't hate it but that's about it. 
 
P.P.S. I still have a few recs up my sleeve but this is already a monster of a post, so let me know if you'd be interested in another! I can't wait to read your recommendations.

good things, lifestyle, try this

9 GREAT TV SHOWS

I like movies as much as the next girl, but what really gets my heart beating is TV. Good TV, that is. (Okay okay you got me, I do have so...

/ 22 December 2015 / Leave a comment

A BIG HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE (BUDGET FRIENDLY!)

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<a href="https://flic.kr/p/BrYagg">Full res image</a></div>
 
Heeey guys! I really hope you're not sick of gift guides just yet! Because, you know, this image took hours to make.  No kidding. So let's show some enthusiasm! Who's feeling up for the holidays? My hand is raised, both of them, in fact. I need some peaceful time off. Watching Christmas TV and eating great food have never sounded more appealing. I have most of my presents sorted out, I think, but if you're finding yourself a bit stuck for ideas, I'm here to help.

DIY, fashion, good things, lifestyle, wishlist

A BIG HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE (BUDGET FRIENDLY!)

Full res image Heeey guys! I really hope you're not sick of gift guides just yet! Because, you know, this image took hours...

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