never be realistic Not to sound millennial, but 2025 went by faster than ever! I don’t even think I fully processed Christmas because in my head it’s still mid-june. Nevertheless I was well and truly spoiled this festive season and am already feeling very optimistic for 2026 - the year of the horse (apparently.) This new year holds the power to either be as iconic as 2016 was - let’s pretend I wasn’t nine years old - or be another futuristic let down. I’m praying for everyone to ditch this AI nonsense, give people their creativity and jobs back, and for doomscrolling to be a thing of the past. Some could say I live in a dreamworld, but where else would you want to live? I urge you to join me in this way of thinking, let’s be unreasonably delusional with our goals in 2026. I’ll go first… Every year I make a list of rational and irrational goals, rational being those that I am certain I can and will accomplish in the year ahead and irritation all being those that are so wildly ambitious I could probably be seen as mental to a normal person. This year the irrational list is far more populated than the rational list - and that is because of how truly INSANE 2025 was for me (see my fave 2025 modelling accomplishments below!)  To give you a sneak peek here are a few things from both goal lists - to give you some ideas.  Rational goals: Drink 3 pints of water a day - I’m severely dehydrated. Grow With Love, Mimi to over 10,000 monthly readers.  Once per month have a 1-1 friend date.  Send two career developing emails per week. Take one industry relevant course/ certificate per quarter to develop independent learning. Read one book per month. Irrational goals:  Be on a billboard. Volunteer in Africa for three weeks. Live in Korea for two months.  Get one very large editorial for a big magazine. Walk a fashion week show (September) Get myself at least one more internship within the fashion industry The list goes on and on and on… as you can imagine, however hopefully that's given you an idea of how I do my goal setting for the new year! I’d love to know what your new years goals are and if you have any outrageously ambitious resolutions! Please send me a message to let me know.  my 2025 editorial accomplishments! I can feel it in my bones that 2026 is going to be a very good year, because life is what you make it and if you speak it into existence enough I am undoubtedly certain it will happen. I’m not going to say I’m not scared, because I am, for all my goals to happen this year I need to change quite a bit, but as the saying goes, “what you aren’t changing, you’re choosing” so I’m very excited for these changes to begin, and I can’t wait to bring you all along with me!  Now it is the 31st December currently so I can only imagine Canva is crashing as I type this with the absurd amount of people making their vision boards for 2026! But I urge you to try and make one if you haven’t already, make it your lockscreen, your wallpaper, print it out and put it on your desk etc… bring it into your life so everyday you are faced with who you want to become and you can then take the steps necessary to get there.  My vision board was done yesterday, and I have attached it below for you to see, gather some images, scout pinterest to your hearts desire! Collate it all together and make sure that when you look at the final product you see yourself, and above all else who you want to become! Mimis 2026 vision board! Wishing you all a fantastic New Years Eve, 2026 will be MAJOR for With Love, Mimi, as the fashion state of events is booming with potential for this coming year. I can’t wait to comment on it all and populate your mind with articles so please do stay in the loop! Sign up to our monthly newsletter "Club Mimi" if you haven't already to get exclusive monthly commentary (I think I'm pretty funny), and only one extra email per month - who’s that going to hurt!  With love,  Mimi x

It’s Christmas Eve! Can you even believe it? Because I sure can’t. 2025 has been the best year of my entire life, yet also the most rapid and chaotic experience I’ve ever had. my 25' christmas tree Controversial take, but arguably Christmas Eve is better than Christmas Day!! Christmas Eve holds a special place in my heart - and in the hearts of many. It’s a night filled with anticipation, warmth, and a touch of magic that brings people together. As the world slows down and everyone collectively remembers that family is truly the most important thing. Stresses of life tend to melt away, happiness radiates from peoples smiles, and love is shared in a way often forgotten in other periods of the year.  Christmas Eve is more than just the night before Christmas. It is a time when families and friends come together to celebrate traditions, share stories, and create memories. My family follows a strict schedule on Christmas Eve, which finishes with one present each on the sofa, drinks in hand, and Home Alone on the TV. It’s potentially the most heartwarming two hours of my entire year, and I cannot wait for it this evening! This Christmas in particular, I’m feeling the magic more than ever as I’ve been working within the Elven world of Lapland! It was an entirely unique experience and involved a lot of improvisation - so I now feel qualified to add “acting skills” to my resume. Over this two-month festive period, I’ve also learned to truly appreciate the differences in how people celebrate Christmas and, above all, the importance of honouring childhood. One of my favourite times of the entire year is the period between the 27th and 31st of December, when everyone collectively seems to slow down and reflect on the year that’s passed. What we want for next year. Cleansing, vision boarding, manifesting - and, most importantly, prioritising what we want to use the next year for and how we can make it happen. The Christmas period can be terribly difficult for many people, and if you are struggling, I wish you peace and prosperity for 2026, alongside a sense of calm throughout the holidays. From mine to yours on this Christmas Eve, may you experience a truly magical festive period filled with joy, peace, and connection. We’ll be back (and better than ever) in the new year, ready to share so many more fashion stories with you. With love,  Mimi x

With Christmas r ight around the corner it’s only right to delve into what the most iconic girls are asking for. What do the fashion obsessed girls want? The ones with selective taste and a refined palette for excellence…  That is what we discover today as I share what I think the fashion lovers will have asked for this year – me included, because yes I am that girl.  The Journaling Epidemic Some of you may have noticed in recent weeks, months, and even over the most recent two years or so, the increase in journaling and how good it is for the mind. Now clearly this is not limited to fashion girlies, but as a fashion gal myself I can confirm I have been influenced by the Louise Carmen leather bound journal movement.  So much so that the red roadbook ended up top of my christmas list. I think a journal made with real leather, with such a long guarantee is without a doubt a smart investment. Made to last your entire life – as stated on the Louise Carmen website!  If you have money to spend and don’t know what to get someone, Louise Carmen should be your answer. A bound notebook that allows you to pull in and out different notebooks to suit your needs. It’s perfect, especially as a person who needs many places to scramble between sketches, random thoughts, poetry, notes etc… It’s undoubtedly the gift to give someone who has lots to say and no avenue to place it.  Sustainability Advancements The journal is also remarkably sustainable, a piece you keep your entire life! It ages with you supposedly. Which brings me swiftly onto my next point – the rise of sustainability in today's market.  Consumers are waking up, focusing less on trends and gathering always the ‘hottest’ piece, instead focusing on building a trans-seasonal wardrobe full of staples that can be seamlessly integrated to multiple different outfits.  More and more brands are realising this with Gen Z, but also now Millenials too and are being more open about their traceability and transparency ethics. Next time you buy something ask yourself if you care more about it being cheap, or ethical!  The true fashion girlies will have been doing this for a while – checking the fabric composition before purchasing. If a wool coat is claimed to be ‘wool blend’ it’s likely only 10% (or sometimes even less), with the rest being plastic composed fabrics. It’s time to be chic, update that wardrobe, but with ethically and sustainably sourced materials. Pay that extra bit for a piece that you won’t have to replace within the year - so worth it!  For example I bought a pair of dark wash denim jeans earlier this year in the Zara sale – already the colour has nearly vanished, so now I’m having to ask for some for Christmas which are better quality! Crazy.  Alongside this is the rise of Vintage products! For Christmas this year I asked a few of my family members to group together and buy me a pair of vintage Dior heels! I am ridiculously excited about these and not only because they are Dior, but also because buying second hand is sustainable, and allows for another piece to be added to my wardrobe that is undoubtedly me!  Invest in YOU To link to the Dior shoes, I fell in love with them because I looked at them and thought, “Wow. They look like me, in shoe form!” I could envision myself wearing them everyday and find it incredibly chic when a woman has an identifiable fashion piece that weaves its way into every outfit.  Statement necklaces, rings, earrings, bags, jackets, shoes, coats, etc… are ones that may have made it to the Christmas lists this year. However more niche personal statements bring me to my next point. Having something so distinctly unique to your character that people identify you with that inanimate object is such a high compliment in my eyes.  For example a digital camera – a must if you don’t already possess one! You must protect those memories and a phone is simply not nostalgic enough.  just a girl and her digi cam A killer pair of sunglasses perhaps – Jimmy Fairy ones have been all the rage this year, and I can see why I need a pair immediately!  Engraved anything! A pen, compact mirror, hat, shoes, literally anything. If it’s personalised to you it’s chic as hell. Love, love, love.  But on the other side of the subject are pieces that help you best identify yourself. If you want to be a DJ, invest in some DJ Decks - our marketing assistant put this at the top of her list this year!    Hobbies, interests and desires are often neglected to focus on the ‘important things’ in life, but what is more important than becoming your best self, and you simply cannot be your best self if your interests aren’t being listened to! If you want to play piano, invest in a piano and some lessons, if you want to write poetry buy a notebook and a solid pen. The list goes on and on…  Better yourself movement This could just be the most important category – if also the most boring potentially! While investing in your physical appearance is important, so is your mental development. That’s why I think all fashion lovers should also debate adding some educational books/ a subscription to their lists!  I’ve held my Vogue Subscription now for over five years and while, yes, they may look good on a shelf, they also educate me on recent fashion events and news. Very valuable to hold. This could be said about any interest, invest in your mental development and read, read, read. It is one of the best things you could do for yourself!  I have a myriad of books on my list, some being self help such as “The power of the subconscious.”, or “The let them theory.” which you may have heard of. But I got so impatient earlier this year and bought one on my list - “Gods and Kings: John Galliano and Alexander McQueen” and so far it has been truly enlightening!  To accompany this speech of bettering yourself I must also take a moment to mention fashion courses! I myself added a short course from UAL onto my Christmas list this year and can’t wait to start the content. I think solo learning is sometimes more valuable than taught lessons or structured learning. Only you know what you want afterall.  UAL has a lot of short courses relating to fashion/  the arts, Vogue College of Fashion also has some great ones! As well as Future Learn which has so many short courses on a larger range of topics. Which are all not too ridiculously expensive!  What's top of Mimi's List? Now we never aspire to ‘want’ things, because that could be construed as greedy and that wouldn’t be very nice. How ever, the things I have a subtle desire to possess this Christmas are as follows…  Louise Carmen Roadbook  GHD Gold Hair Straighteners  Saie Vanity Case  A personalised compact mirror The Let Them Theory - Mel Robbins  Laura Mercier Honey Bath  Magazine rack - to hold all the editorials I’ve done this year hehe What do you want this Christmas? Let us know… With love,  Mimi x

This was an exceptional day to write this article! Bear in mind I pre-plan my topics, and happened to allocate this particular day to track my day as an intern. It ended up being brilliant - so please be aware not every day is like this!  me on the way to wor k #interncore To give a brief backstory - last year I wanted to experience buying in a real fashion office, so acquired a three week work placement at Anthropologie - and loved it. I then was invited back in October, and started as a buying intern for a three month period a few weeks ago.  So far I’ve learnt so much! Through an extortionate amount of trend forecasting, competitor analysis, market research, sample development, and administration tasks. Without further ado… let me set the scene of this week as an intern for you.  Day in the life: Part 1 - Wednesday 3rd December Wednesday the 3rd of December I headed into central London - Brick Lane to be exact. Which is where URBN offices are (housing Urban Outfitters, Free People, and Anthropologie). My hair was dripping wet – poor timing with the Elizabeth line delays and the gloomy english rain not being on my side at all.  However when I waltzed into the office and sat down at my desk I was greeted with a pre-organised list of tasks for me to complete. Which I loved because everyone is usually SO busy I end up walking around like a lost dog begging for tasks. Today my list started with some research into birthstone necklaces, and SS26 caps and hat trends. Looking specifically for anything funky, fun and very Anthropologie. So due to being a complete fashion nerd I started reciting the many hat styles from the SS26 shows, and guest outfits. Including: Sailor hats, Berets, Baker boy hats, bucket hats, and flat back caps.  After gathering an absurd amount of imagery from Pinterest on another four trend forecasting presentations I had to retire my laptop for a lunch break! When I came back I finished off a presentation on unique colour combinations for hair accessories, shoe trends for AW26, current Tiktok trends for hair and beauty, and soooo much more.  After a totalled five hour trend forecasting session I swapped to a more interactive task for a movement break... hanging the new sample development handbags on the display wall - ready for the big boss to see the following day! Speaking of samples I then set up all the jewellery and eyewear samples ready to be shot the following day at the in-house studio; organised about five trays worth of tangled up necklaces - and then headed home!  Day in the life: Part 2 - Thursday 4th December Now this is not where the story ends, because this week my days were consecutive - meaning the next day was just as packed… my heart set on finishing this longgggggg list. When I came in on the following day I looked much fresher, with a cute outfit as well! Shirt, with a layered cami over the top - feeling very Rachel Green - ready to fully tackle the day… and it was very much tackled.  I had three things left on the list to complete… a comp shop on bags at highstreet retailers, new product lines we should be aware of from shoe lines we stock (e.g. Birkenstock, UGG, Doc Martens…), and researching the packaging for the birthstone necklaces so we can go above and beyond.  My brain was so locked in this day I got it all done by 11am, and was then informed we were having a sample clear out. So the girlies at Anthropologie had piled together loads of no longer needed samples from the storage cupboard and put it all in a box. Before announcing, “Come grab some free stuff!” To which obviously everyone jumped up like Lions attacking their prey. The first box I pounced on was hair accessories, and there was some incredible stuff. Then came jewellery - which I’m working on, so I got first dibs! As well as hats, cold weather, and handbags!!! I was overjoyed as a novice to the industry would be, however the others weren’t as ecstatic as this is probably a quartely occurence. All the more for me, my bag was growing bigger with every pass to the bathroom… not suspicious at all.  I have an addiction to clothes Then came the true worst offender – Urban Outfitters downstairs was hosting a Christmas sample sale, where you could buy a bag for £20 and fill it to the BRIM with samples from URBN!!! I went to town, and what's better is that all the money from the bags goes to charity!  Obviously this is not a regular occurence, just extreme luck on my part for being there on that day, and it's a brilliant perk of a job within the fashion industry for sure. So I took full advantage - only leaving when my bag was physically too big the seams were bursting at the sides. I headed back up to the office to drop off my new wardrobe, along with some new sample deliveries for SS26 Jewellery. Which we unpacked and discussed what was working and what was not with the suppliers via email, discussing materials, lengths, beading, metal, thread etc of summer earrings.  some new development pieces... I love that part of the job because you are actually curating something from scratch that someone will end up buying in a shop – and it could end up being their favourite item ever!  Then I made myself useful - feeling a tad guilty after the insane amount of stuff I had in my bag! So I tasked myself with untangling an insanely big box of earrings and bracelets in the storage room, and organised all the bags into categories to make it easier for the buying team to see the samples we have in. Finishing up around 5pm and heading home with an extra 40kg on my shoulder. I was humongous - but it was entirely worth it. Working at Anthropologie is such a lovely environment, the work-life balance seems to be honoured really well, and the perks are insane. I’m so grateful for the experience and I am learning an exponential amount of useful things during the process. Having nearly completed six weeks I’m sure you’ll hear much more about it as I continue my time… I just needed to let you all know about the ridiculous sample sale that occurred.  With love,  Mimi x

This is the big question of today, and I’m not sure I’m qualified to give my opinion on this matter - but we are giving it a go nevertheless!  me core Largely and most obviously is the fact people love to fantasise! It is the most intriguing thing when a man is entirely mysterious. If we know for a fact we cannot have the person then that makes them harder to access, so we strive for the challenge. That of course is the chase, and for some reason we all love it.  Through this deluded fantasy we all allow ourselves to delve further into mania as we feed into our own perception of this unattainable person. Fantasy is far safer than reality so we allow our minds to run wild with the potential of this person, it is all consuming at times. This is where I myself have fallen victim in recent weeks. By allowing your imagination to run wild you can control the storyline, the outcome, the memories etc. There is no risk of rejection because you are making it all up in your head, allowing for the complete romanticism of a completely ordinary interaction. Sounds a bit psychotic really when you spell it out - which is exactly where my own suffering comes into play.  Over recent weeks I have unfortunately fallen into a deep state of limerence, since coming home from a trip where I incurred the tragic event of meeting my exact type!   Limerence: “Limerence is a state of involuntary obsession and intense romantic infatuation with another person, defined by intrusive thoughts, an idealisation of the other person, and a desperate longing for reciprocation. Unlike love, it is based on the uncertainty of whether the other person returns your feelings and is often one-sided. ” Doesn’t sound very fun now does it? Well it's not. I have been an embarrassment to the independent womanhood community in recent weeks - and I used to be the Mayor of this community so it's quite a fall off.  All down to a trip last month in Budapest where I met the epitome of my type on the dancefloor of a club. He was a gorgeous blonde Hungarian man, and I had to have him. We had already been at the club dancing our hearts out for about an hour when he walked in and I boldly stated to my friend, "Look at the Blonde. I must have him” After 30 minutes of eyeing up him and his group we managed to secure the Hungarian blonde and his Italian friend. It was at this point that me and my friend realised we might be in a bit of bother the following morning because it was already 2am and we had a flight to catch, yet tragically were terribly infatuated by these men.  But why? As the night went on these men managed to completely seduce us with their European charm, not even speaking fluent English (quite an achievement!) They whispered sweet compliments in our ears and danced with us as if we had known each other for years, and that's exactly how it felt. It took everything in our bodies to not go home with them - and that is saying something.  me and my man in da club For the most part I am stupendously independent, yet this night managed to prove to myself I too crave intimacy - which I was naively unaware of. To be held in his arms, hold his hand, kiss him, lean on him as we danced and be told a myriad of overused but compelling compliments was everything I needed and more. Me and my travel companion walked out of the club at 4:30AM in a state of disbelief and were unawarely already entering into the hypnotic state of limerence. How and why do these men have this power over us…  After four weeks back in the country I think I've finally cracked the case!  The reason we fall so much harder for men we know we cannot have, is because of the mystery they obtain, I hardly know this man - which allows for my brain to create an idealised version of him. I’ve had four weeks now to stalk his instagram, talk to him over DM, rewatch a video of us dancing - obsessively - and from these three things I’ve formulated him as the perfect man.  THE man if you will - when really if I got to know him now, he’d probably be a bit of a let down because I've overcompensated with an idealised version of him! Quite sad really. His scarcity has created a desire so strong because of how unattainable he feels, he lives in a whole different country so my brain knows I will likely never see him again - and somehow that means he holds more value in my brain! It’s almost entirely psychological. My brain has systematically mistaken difficulty for importance - a tragic debacle.  It truly is tragic because I have never been one of those women who was obsessed by men, in fact I was more disgusted by them than anything else. Yes, I am unfortunately heterosexual by nature, however I often wish I were a lesbian, and it wasn't until this state of enlightenment that I've realised the lasting impact of having never had any romantic interaction. I’m nineteen years old and have never been in love, never had a boyfriend, never even been on a date. Until this night I hadn’t ever even held hands with a man - you can be a man hater all you like but that kind of inattention does transpire with a desperate desire for intimacy at times - today being one of them.  Can we break the cycle?  this is how deluded i've been The over romanticising must STOP! I think we can break this cycle but first we must understand that most of what we imagine is likely not real and we have unconsciously projected our desires onto a falsified version of a man.  Once we are aware and have acknowledged this as a problem we can start to take action! Which is easier said than done, however now we know this is the problem it should be easier to stop ourselves from creating these false ideals. So next time you catch yourself falling into limerence i'm hoping we are going to recognise the pattern and put a stop to it! But it's going to be an ongoing battle because even now I still catch myself hyper-fixating on this man! Partly because he has annoyingly fed into my delusions over messages - making it so much worse, but also because I've entirely allowed myself to fall into it! if this isn't the truth! (He was my lock-screen for two - weeks.) Thats actually psychotic. I’ve fully exposed myself with this one, I'm going to look back on this time and think how insane I was, but that is limerence for you! Aside from embarrassing myself I'm hoping this has helped you understand your own self more and possibly even relate to my crazy state of limerence because it seems to be an increasingly popular emotional state in recent years. Manifesting success and happiness for you all - and definitely no limerence. With love, Mimi x

As one of the most widely anticipated fashion events of the year, I was SAT, and waiting on Monday 1st December - earlier this week when The British Fashion Awards were presented by Pandora at The Royal Albert Hall in London. Secretly I was wishing I had been invited, or even had been able to dress one of the invitees! That is my actual dream.  However, watching everyone arrive in their brilliant outfits and refreshing the live stream every three seconds to see who the winners of the most prestigious fashion awards of the year (in my unbiased British opinion) was a close second to being invited amongst the stars.  This was the first fashion awards held since Laura Weir’s appointment as CEO of The British Fashion Council earlier this year, in April. She has already done wonders for the BFC, and has set goals for the Council that make her a legendary leader - because we are already seeing the results! Her main goal is to amplify the influence of fashion in London and make it equally as prestigious as Paris, and Milan for Fashion. Doing so by focusing on nurturing and celebrating new talent, investing heavily in innovation and growing the fashion industry sustainably!  So without further ado lets get into the results…  Grace Wales Bonner - BRITISH MENSWEAR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR This award recognises a leading British menswear designer who has consistently made a global impact with their innovative and creative designs, shaping the burgeoning international menswear landscape.  Grace Wales Bonner without a doubt deserved this, alongside her new appointment as the new Creative Director of Menswear for the French fashion house Hermès, making her the first Black woman to lead a major fashion house in this capacity.  If that isn’t icon behaviour, I don't know what is! She must be pinching herself that this year even happened. It sounds far too dream-like for real life.  Sarah Burton for Givenchy - BRITISH WOMENSWEAR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR This award recognises a leading British womenswear designer or business who has consistently made a global impact with their innovative and creative designs, shaping the burgeoning international womenswear landscape.  Well deserved, yet again another British icon - not to be biased but we just do it best. No shame.  FROM THE SS26 SHOW Dilara Findikoğlu - THE VANGUARD AWARD From when I reported on her show from the SS26 shows at London Fashion week earlier this year I knew she was going places. Iconic designs. Legendary, punky, gothic, dystopian energy. With Naomi Campbell having walked for her - she was always going to win some award. If Naomi sees your vision you know you’ve GOT it!  This award recognises a designer at the forefront of a new wave in British fashion. The recipient will have demonstrated visionary creativity, cultural leadership and global influence, helping to shape the future of fashion. And that she did – even dressing the winner of this year's Model of the Year award in a custom gown…  Anok Yai - MODEL OF THE YEAR The Model of the Year Award recognises the global impact of a model who over the last 12 months has dominated the industry, making an outstanding contribution to the industry. This decision is not done lightly, and instead is thoughtfully done through an esteemed board of casting directors, creatives, photographers, and editors that come together to evaluate the options.  This year the award went to Anok Yai, the infamous 27 year old who over the past eight years has totally overtaken the modelling industry, alongside best friend and colleague Alex Consani - last year's MOTY winner.  Anok was inevitably this year's winner, however many were amused by this as she angrily tweeted last year, in response to Alex Consani winning over her… “Alex, I love you and I'm so proud of you British Fashion Council, thank you but I don't want it anymore.” Clearly she did still want it… because guess who showed up on Monday looking ridiculously perfect in a custom couture Dilara Findikoglu gown. Anok Yai. She undoubtedly deserved the win this year and was rightfully chosen to do so by the Model of the Year jury which consisted of - Emma Matell, a casting director, Sophia Neophitou- Apostolou, Aston Em - among a total group of ten. Congratulations are in order. Manifesting one day me or my bestie will be up there!  Jonathan Anderson - DESIGNER OF THE YEAR This award Recognises a British or international designer whose innovative collections and campaigns over the last year have made a notable impact on the industry, defining the shape of global fashion. Jonathan Anderson won for Dior and JW Anderson, a third consecutive year! And no one had a doubt in their mind. He is the only Creative Director to currently be the exclusive head of a Paris Maison as well as his own eponymous label JW Anderson. Totalling a whopping 18 collections a year. Just writing that out makes me almost have a nervous breakdown. What an icon. I aspire to his level of work ethic, and think about his stressed out cigarette break on the Seine from earlier this year far too much.  Other awards and their winners -  CHANEL - SPECIAL RECOGNITION Chanel has been honoured with a Special Recognition award celebrating 100 years in the UK. ISABELLA BLOW AWARD FOR FASHION CREATOR Rei Kawakubo, Adrian Joffe and Dickon Bowden are recognised for their incredible contribution to the global fashion industry through the establishment of Dover Street Market (DSM). SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD FOR 15 YEARS OF BFC FASHION TRUST Accepted by Tania Fares, recognising 15 years of BFC Fashion Trust. DELPHINE ARNAULT - SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD The Special Recognition Award honours outstanding contribution to the fashion industry. BRUNELLO CUCINELLI - OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD The Outstanding Achievement Award celebrates the creative contribution of an individual, who throughout their career has constantly shaped and reshaped the fashion world through their innovation and creativity. Previous winners include Tom Ford, Mr. Valentino, Giorgio Armani, Miuccia Prada, Ralph Lauren and Karl Lagerfeld. KATE HAWLEY - COSTUME DESIGNER OF THE YEAR AWARD This honour recognises Hawley’s exceptional costume design for Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein , emphasising the craftsmanship, creativity, and fashion artistry that bring cinematic storytelling to life. LULU KENNEDY & RAPHAELLE MOORE - SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD FOR 25 YEARS OF FASHION EAST The Award honours talent incubator Fashion East which marks its 25th anniversary this year, recognising Lulu and Raphaelle’s outstanding leadership and the impactful legacy of the initiative.  LITTLE SIMZ - CULTURAL INNOVATOR AWARD  The Cultural Innovator Award celebrates a leading innovator and image-maker in the entertainment industry, who over the course of the year has had a profound impact on the fashion industry and wider culture.  SAM WOOLF - PANDORA STYLE MOMENT OF THE YEAR AWARD The Pandora Style Moment of the Year Award celebrates a stylist behind fashion or entertainment moments that have left a lasting mark on culture, innovation and influence.  MELANIE WARD - POSTHUMOUS OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO FASHION AWARD A very fashionable close to the year… With the Met Gala taking place mid way through the year on the first Monday in May, and the BFC hosting their awards every December. We fashion obsessed individuals only get fed twice a year - four if you include both A/W and S/S shows.  I always look forward to the British Fashion Awards, yes because of the awards, talent, and insane outfits but also because The British Fashion Council itself is admirable with their goals and motives, remitting on average £4 million per year across initiatives to fashion talent from education and scholarships.  This year's awards were a brilliant close to a historic year for the fashion industry! With such tragic losses for the industry, the brilliant Creative Director debuts a jaw dropping SS26 streak over all fashion weeks earlier in September, and even personally for me. I’ve been in Harpers Bazaar this year so that's my biggest fashion win!  However, my model agent went to the event – and saw Anok Yai. I'm so jealous, no idea how I'm ever going to look him in the eye again.  Bye for now!  With love,  Mimi x

The most magical month of the year has arrived… don’t be a scrooge and disagree. I'm glad its December do not fear, however I am baffled at how 2025 has flown by so rapidly! Honestly where has the time gone? Perhaps it's just the fact I’m adulting that’s making the time fly by (or at least that's what my mother tells me). Time sure flies when you are stressing about your future!  December is a strong contender as my favourite month of the year – as an avid gift giver and appreciator of all things Christmas I wholly love the rising joy as the big day grows closer and closer. As the doors on the advent calendar get lesser and lesser the anticipation grows and grows.  The entirety of December is captivating - for those with young children within the family you get the joy that Father Christmas brings. The excitement buzzing from every child as they await his sleigh and swift chimney climbing skills. For those who don't get the joy of Mr Claus, it comes from the subtle joy apparent from most peoples faces as the day grows closer, the atmosphere when you see some Christmas lights, overhearing carol singers, or getting all cosy to watch a Christmas classic!  The list goes on and on but the one thing that remains is that for whatever reason, December always manages to feel a lot happier than other months. Everyone buying presents for their loved ones, decorating the house to within an inch of its life, perfecting the Christmas dinner order list. Christmas is such a fond memory for me, and largely I think it's because it’s one of the only times a year where people are allowed to slow down and remember that life is about family more than anything else.  We spend so much of the year focused and stressed about what we are doing and where we are going and Christmas (for my family atleast) allows us to get together and realise we are the most important thing to each other. It gives people perspective as we come to a close on the year and transition into a new year. We reflect on who we have been this past year, and who we get to become within the coming year. That always really excites me.  This year the excitement for me is immense as my closest friends return from their modelling placements in Korea and Japan just days before Christmas Day! Having not seen them in over three months I’m eagerly awaiting their return and just know it’s going to add so much joy to my Christmas.  I’m getting giddy just typing this out! I've spent all day decorating my Christmas tree, covered with an entirely discombobulated selection of baubles - some from my travels this year, some from my handmade phase, and others collected over the years. A curation of myself in tree form you could call it! A Christmas candle is burning and Nat King Cole is making himself known through my headphones, the vibes are strong and the merriness is already growing. I’m looking forward to the run-up to Christmas, as everyone gets excited and the atmosphere grows more welcoming by the day. The layering and warmth of a December outfit is of course another bonus – as the official beginning of Winter everyone brings out the long trench coats paired with humongous scarves that completely consume the outfit. Chunky knits with four layers underneath, three pairs of fluffy socks on to mitigate any cold toes, because that is truly horrible. And even with the abundance of layering, it's still not enough as our cheeks turn red, our noses mirror Rudolphs, and our lips get chapped the second we step outside. I cannot wait to drown myself in fabrics and step outside this December, into a much more merry version of the world - at least I hope! To those reading... Welcome to December! I’m very grateful to have started the blog this year, and would have never believed it at the start of this year. To any regular readers of With Love, Mimi - I am beyond thankful for your loyal readership, and to those who are new, I welcome you and hope you stay along for the new year…  With love,  Mimi x

Cinema is a true art and one that quite often feels under-appreciated. After a long day at work, on a flight, spending quality time with loved ones. The list is endless but a film is almost always involved, often being bonded to particular memories or people. There is such a power transcended through cinema that no other media can produce, and as we delve into the Winter months I want to share some of my favourite fashion oriented films that you should watch this Winter! Coco before Chanel Before the double C’s became a symbol of elegance, there was Gabrielle – ambitious, headstrong, and unafraid to challenge the corseted norms of her time. Coco Before Chanel  is a masterclass in minimalist rebellion, chronicling how a seamstress with an opinion turned simplicity into power.  Every muted tone and clean line in the film feels intentional, like a slow move toward liberation. This isn’t just a fashion biopic; it’s the origin story of Miss Chanel herself, and where she got her unique and understated confidence. The Holiday  When life unravels, swap your postcode, possessions, and even your brother. The Holiday  is a cinematic warm hug – equal parts Nancy Meyers interior design fantasy and cashmere-laden escapism. Although not exclusively a fashion film the knitwear speaks for itself! From Cameron Diaz’s icy LA chic to Kate Winslet’s cosy English countryside knits, it’s the definition of a “feel good film” and one of my favourite ever films.  It’s about heartbreak, healing, and the kind of self-reinvention that starts with a good coat and a plane ticket. I can attest to that from an avid plane ticket purchaser myself.  The Dressmaker If revenge is best served cold, The Dressmaker  proves it’s even better when served haute couture. Kate Winslet plays ‘Tilly’ a disgraced seamstress returning from the glamour of Paris to her small, scandal-ridden Australian town armed with a sewing machine and an immaculate wardrobe.  Very Dior esque silhouettes, in a desert environment, paired with a touch of madness. This film is bold, funny, and unapologetic,  a reminder that transformation, in life or in fashion, often comes with drama. House of Gucci  Camp, chaos, and couture – House of Gucci  delivers all three in unapologetic abundance.  Lady Gaga’s Patrizia Reggiani struts through betrayal, murder, and Milanese boardrooms with an accent as sharp as her tailoring (How is she good at everything?!?!)  And as for fashion… Pure excess: fur, leather, and gold dripping from every frame. But beneath the spectacle lies a darkly fascinating tale about ego, ambition, and the dangerous allure of legacy. It’s proof that money buys luxury, but not class, and definitely not loyalty. A lesson that even with family once money is involved things change.  Love Actually  The ultimate British comfort film, as we can all attest to! It just has a cosy characteristic to it, watching Love Actually is like wearing a wool coat in December.  Love Actually  isn’t even a “fashion film”, but the outfits can spark a debate, oozing early-2000s charm with chunky knits, velvet blazers, and timeless London energy. Jamie & Aurélia It’s the kind of movie that makes you want to devour an excessively decorated hot chocolate in an impractical Santa mug. Amid all the overlapping love stories, it reminds us that love, like personal style, isn’t always perfect – but it’s always worth the risk.  My favourite love story of the film is Jamie and Aurélia who fall in love despite not even speaking the same language, it reminds me each and every time that love can come in many forms, and is rarely perfect - yet is always worth it. The Devil wears Prada No list of fashion films is complete without The Devil Wears Prada . It is a true classic! Meryl Streep’s Miranda Priestly is the icy, immaculately dressed deity of the fashion world,  terrifying, brilliant, and oddly inspiring. Anne Hathaway’s Andy lived the life aspired to by many, making a hellish internship look like heaven, stumbling through Runway’s glossy corridors in cerulean sweaters and Chanel boots, learning that ambition often comes with a dry cleaning bill and lots of coffee runs.  Beyond the iconic one-liners and impossible stilettos, it’s really a story about power, and what it takes to get there. Finding your own voice in a world that demands perfection. (The teaser for The Devil Wears Prada 2 just came out - premiering May 1, 2026!!!)  The Intern Fashion may evolve, but style and grace are timeless. The Intern  pairs Anne Hathaway’s driven and always impeccably dressed CEO with Robert De Niro’s old-school intern, creating an unexpected duo that’s as heartwarming as it is stylish.  The film’s aesthetic is modern minimalism done right: silk blouses, tailored trousers, and subtle confidence. Beneath the soft lighting and tech start-up gloss, it’s a story about purpose, mentorship, and how reinvention doesn’t have an age limit. This shot is SO iconic!!! Breakfast at Tiffany's I mean as if i could make this list without putting in Breakfast at Tiffany’s!!!! Before influencer culture, there was the original It Girl. Breakfast at Tiffany’s  isn’t just a movie; it’s an aesthetic education.  Audrey Hepburn’s black Givenchy dress, pearls, and oversized sunglasses remain the blueprint for effortless chic and a classic piece of fashion history at that. But beneath the polished exterior is a complex woman chasing connection in a city that celebrates independence. It’s a delicate mix of glamour and melancholy – proof that the most stylish people are often the most human.  Audrey redefined elegance with a croissant and a cat. Still the ultimate mood board for anyone who knows that style and sadness can coexist beautifully. A lot of people can relate to that I’m sure.  to have friends like this is a true blessing   Sex and the City - The Movie If fashion had a religion, Sex and the City  would be its scripture. Every outfit - from Carrie’s tutu to Samantha’s power suits, tells a story of friendship, freedom, and fabulousness.  It’s a world where heartbreak can be healed by girls brunch and a new pair of Manolo's, and where self-expression is the ultimate accessory. More than just a show about clothes, it’s about identity - how what we wear reflects who we are becoming. Sex and the City always reminds me of the importance of good friends and an equally good shoe.  (I watch Sex and the City when I feel behind in life to remind myself I’m still 13 years younger than Carrie Bradshaw in Season 1 of SATC!!!)  The importance of Cinema  In a world that rarely slows down, films like these are non-negotiable! Reminding us to pause and relax, whether it's a Christmas classic, a fashion icon or a touch of fantasy.   Cinema, like fashion, lets us explore identities, eras, and emotions we might never live firsthand. Whether it’s Chanel’s innovation, Carrie’s chaos, or even Miranda Priestley's powerful assertion, each film offers a little escapism.  So this winter, give yourself permission to indulge - I’m starting with The Holiday!  With love,  Mimi x

me this Friday Black Friday is basically the Olympics of shopping - except we win discounted knitwear and an unnecessary amount of mini dresses. It is so chaotic, especially if you go in without a strategy. I’ve had too many years of panic-scrolling at 2am, buying things I “might wear on holiday” (I did not wear them on holiday) or convincing myself I needed a fifth variation of a white tank top. This year, I’m trying to be organised, intentional, and not letting capitalism & overconsumption trick me.  Black Friday 2025 lands on Friday 28th November, meaning you’ve now got two full days of planning if you are reading this on Wednesday 26th (hi, organised queen), here’s your strategic, and slightly unhinged guide to navigating the biggest shopping weekend of the year without having a nervous breakdown in the Zara queue. The Real-Time Predictions You Didn’t Ask For (But Need) Let’s be honest: Black Friday “predictions” are basically astrology for shoppers. But I swear I’m getting frighteningly good at them. Based on last year’s chaos, early discount patterns, and my own unhealthy level of online browsing, here’s what will most likely go down: zara core High-Street Girlies Zara will pretend they’re not participating (as usual), then randomly drop 30–70% off on selected pieces at like 8pm on Thursday, and the app will crash. Start browsing now.  H&M will hit us with 20–30% off site-wide but only if you’re a member, which… we all are. Mango will quietly offer 30% off everything and suddenly half the internet will be wearing the same coat - don’t be that basic. Premium / Elevated Basics Arket, COS, & Other Stories will all do that annoying “20% off ~selected styles~” thing that somehow excludes the exact item you want. But COS coats? They will GO. Skims will discount things that aren’t the things we actually want, no one wants a 50% off bush, but thanks Kimmy! As for the Fits Everybody line? Expect 25% off and a stampede - grab what you can. Beauty LookFantastic will basically act like money is fake again and throw 25–35% off almost everything, including their amazing £40 Black Friday Box which is insanely well curated this year!  Cult Beauty will give us a discount code that mysteriously doesn’t apply to literally any product you click on. I’m onto you.  Sephora UK will go strong with bundles that make you feel like you’re saving £200 when you’re actually spending £400, but as long as you feel it queen. This is my Roman Empire. My Top 5 for Black Friday 2025:  Selfridges & the Luxury Lot - The Treat Yourself Edit Selfridges is fully leaning into Black Friday this year. Expect curated designer edits, beauty steals, accessories you’ve been praying would dip below full price, and those one-time markdowns on luxury pieces that make you gasp. Black Friday is actually the best time to buy investment fashion - the items that don’t follow trends, don’t date, don’t fall apart, and definitely don’t end up on Vinted six months later. The RealReal is another luxury goldspot and always has insane vintage steals during Black Friday - like actual dream-piece-level finds, but the shipping to the UK is so astronomical it low-key feels like they’re charging me for the flight the bag took. My advice? Browse online, shortlist what you want, then go in-store to secure the purchase! Because nothing beats the serotonin of holding a Selfridges bag. Shop Here: Selfridges - https://www.selfridges.com/GB/en/ The Real Real - https://www.therealreal.com/ Anthropologie - The Homeware Haven  Anthropologie is the dark horse of Black Friday. Everyone runs to the fashion section, but the real treasure is in homeware: rugs, furniture, candles, kitchen bits, even a sofa, the whole cosy-life aesthetic. Expect site-wide reductions and their classic “extra off sale” drama, plus early access for their members. If you’re nesting, gifting, or planning to reinvent your entire room for reasons unknown - this is where you should shop. Tip:  Join AnthroPerks for early access and prioritise home items (often better value than fashion pieces). Shop here: https://www.anthropologie.com/en-gb/ Free People - Boho-chic done right  Free People never screams about Black Friday, but when they do discount, the knitwear, fleeces, and denim are always the smartest buys. Trendy pieces sell out quicker, but the relaxed fits and staples are usually well-stocked online - and won’t be out of fashion by January! This is also a brand where in-person try-ons can make or break a purchase, especially with the more slouchy silhouettes. Shop here: https://www.freepeople.com/uk/ LookFantastic: The Beauty Bargain Queen If you buy only one thing this Black Friday: a Look Fantastic beauty box. LookFantastic has already dropped early offers and curated boxes that are genuinely incredible value -  we’re talking £40 boxes worth triple that inside. Beauty bundles sell out fast every year, so this is the time to be decisive. Great for Christmas gifting, restocking your skincare, or if you’ve been saying “I deserve something nice” for far too long - TREAT YOURSELF!  Shop here: https://www.lookfantastic.com/ Waterstones: book bundles & in-store calm In a world of flashing sale banners and price drops, Waterstones is the soft, gentle exhale you didn’t know you needed. Instead of elbowing someone in the Zara queue, browse book bundles, box sets, special editions and holiday releases. It’s the gift that keeps on giving truly because being educated never goes out of style - and it’s going to be far less drama than whatever is happening in Westfield this Friday. Shop here: https://www.waterstones.com/ What I'm Searching For This Year I’ve recently undergone some major life changes and have a rather exciting year ahead. Therefore it’s only right I completely reinvent myself and my wardrobe is included - but we are moving in a curated, timeless manner so we don’t fall into the dark pitt of overconsumption!  Last year I treated myself to a £500 pair of Reformation boots that were marked down to £275! And a Skims bodysuit that takes 45 minutes to put on - and therefore I’ve never worn! Mimis Black Friday 2025 Wishlist: its looking like an expensive Friday 28th. Great. My Non-Negotiables (so I don’t impulse-buy rubbish) If I wouldn’t buy it full price, I’m not buying it If I can’t style it three ways, it’s a no If it screams “trend that dies by March,” it’s gone. Final Thoughts Before You Click “Add to Basket” Black Friday isn't about buying everything. It’s about buying smart . Pick a few of your favourite retailers, save your favourites, and move with intention - not panic.  Do NOT overbuy, overconsumption is not cute sweetie.  And if you do end up getting overwhelmed and all else fails? Head to Waterstones, buy a book, and call it a day. Your bank account will thank you. Your wardrobe probably won’t. See you Friday… goodbye money.  With love,  Mimi x

When they announce the Met Gala theme usually a pit forms in my stomach of impending doom for the looks that may appear on the carpet… I didn’t get that today, in fact, the second I read Vogue’s announcement that “ The Met Costume Institute theme is… Costume Art,” my mind immediately spiralled into an exhaustive list of how this could be interpreted, what the exhibition will be like, and what the dress code will be!!! Thinking at a million miles a second trying to deep dive into my archival knowledge all within a single minute - to cut it short, my brain almost exploded and fashion facts almost spewed out everywhere. Thankfully I held it together, purely because I was at work. Just about managing to contain my excitement so I could debrief the theme announcement and its prospects properly here with you all. Costume Art: This theme fills my fashion heart with hope, and hearing the press release from the Met Museum itself did wonders for enhancing my excitement! According to a joint Instagram post from The Met Costume Institute and The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the 2026 Met Gala’s “Costume Art” theme is aiming to "celebrate fashion as an art form." LOVE! It is about time fashion got the true representation it requires because designers should be considered artists, and in my head they always have been - sometimes more so than a traditional artist. (Don’t come for me.) I’m all over the place currently thinking about what the iconic stair design will be: a stripe? an abstract pattern? a single, striking colour block? As for the exhibition itself, I can only imagine the beautiful costumes they are going to obtain to display for the attendees! If only I lived in New York - I’d be first in line after opening night trying to get a sneak peek. The Exhibition: From The Met Museum and The Met Costume Institute's collaborative Instagram post, they revealed the annual exhibition will be: "Focusing primarily on Western art from prehistory to the present”  and will “explore artistic representations of the dressed body, pairing fashions and artworks from the Museum’s vast collection to highlight the inherent relationship between clothing and the body.”  I love the history behind the theme and how they are digging deep into how clothing has shaped the image of the body across history, from history sexualising women, to  continuously changing body standards and the impact of clothing with it.  So basically what I’m sensing is someone is bound to show up dressed almost naked, and others will be dressed head to toe in the most outrageous clothing to “make a point,” which will most likely lead to them being labelled as the 2026 laughing stock. From a press release about the exhibition the institute revealed:  “Costume Art will be organized into a series of thematic body types that reflect their ubiquity and endurance through time and space. These comparisons will highlight the inextricable relationship between clothing and the body and reveal that artistic representations of the body are shaped by the garments that clothe them and that the garments, in turn, are shaped by the bodies which they clothe." I love that last quote - that the body is shaped by the garments that clothe it and the garments equally are shaped by the bodies that they clothe! It truly is our bodies that give garments life, and this should be appreciated! What a poetic emphasis to the theme - could this possibly be an easter egg that the dress code is linked to literature or am I going crazy?!?! The Dress Code: It is a pity they don’t reveal the dress code until a few months after the theme reveal, because if I were a high-end designer or stylist and heard this theme I would be overwhelmed at how vast the options are - yet equally ecstatic and unable to sleep tonight out of an everlasting flow of ideas. I audibly gasped When the dress code does get announced, I’m hoping it in some way relates to cinema, because imagine the plethora of costumes to choose from when digging into the archives! The potential for designers to interpret a classic film costume… or create something entirely unique -  a costume of their own making. What I genuinely do not want to see is a parade of identical ideas, a string of unoriginal thoughts if you will -  like Zendaya this year, who somehow managed to show up in the exact same outfit as Anna Sawai. Shocker. How did Law Roach not catch that? Link to my Met predictions: Jacob as Frankensteins Monster Now although my predictions weren’t entirely accurate, I still hold hope for following years' themes because the concept of “Meet your Muse” is insanely good (not to big myself up) and I must see it happen at some point!  However as far as the dress code goes this year because The Gothic would be an insane link to the Costume Art theme! And it would work beautifully - so many Gothic movies to choose from. Imagine Jacob Elordi as himself in Frankenstein  (2025) as the Creature, or again in Wuthering Heights  (2026) as Heathcliff… both Gothic classics! Kris, Kim, Kendall & Kylie Another costume idea that could definitely be coming is Kim Kardashian going big - as per usual. Perhaps leaning into that “garments shaped by the body” ideology with something slinky, sculptural, and inevitable. Or maybe she comes as some kind of Greek statue. I can wholly see Kim covered in plaster (Tyla 2023 behaviour). Perhaps it could be a family affair with the Kardashian clan as the Greek caryatid sisters. I’m thinking: Kim, Kendall, Kylie, and Kris with her new face. Save the Date: The Met Gala, as per usual, is held on the first Monday in May - which in 2026 means Monday 4th May. Put it in your calendars, make a mental note, write it on a Post-it, or wait and see whether the dress code is a hit before committing it to memory. this photo gives me life The entire ordeal is, of course, chaired by none other than Anna Wintour, as it has been since 1995. The 2026 co-chairs have yet to be announced but will be revealed “in the coming months, along with members of the Gala Host Committee.” Thank god, because the 2025 co-chairs were surreal! Pharrell Williams, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky!!! And so many more - praying for another elite selection in 2026. To my dismay, along with the announcement of the theme they also revealed that the exhibition itself is largely funded by Jeff Bezos & co. Of all people. Please give some money to the homeless or fix world hunger Jeff but don’t strut around American Museums for a free invite. That is so tacky.  As for me I’m manifesting an invite from Anna Wintour herself - I’m hoping she can feel the telepathic frequency I’m currently sending her. While on her frequency I’ll add in a request for The Gothic dress code, until then... With love, Mimi x