We’ve been getting a monthly subscription box from Craft Gin Club since February this year and I wanted to talk a bit about it! Full disclosure: Owen is the gin aficionado in our family and I’ve been partnering with Craft Gin Club on a gifting basis as a little monthly treat for him. We receive the boxes, I create some content each month (sometimes with Owen’s help, sometimes by myself) and then we enjoy the gin, snacks and mixers.
Would we pay for a Craft Gin Club subscription if I wasn’t in a position to create photo and video content in exchange for the monthly boxes? The answer is yes. We’d probably get a bi-monthly subscription instead of a monthly one – Craft Gin Club offers monthly, bi-monthly and quarterly subscriptions along with the option of purchasing one-off boxes of the month. There are some monthly boxes that I’ve loved more than Owen did and vice versa, so I appreciate that there’s the option to choose the ones you like the most.
Whether it’s a subscription or a one off box, Craft Gin Club makes for a wonderful gift as there are so many different things to try out in every box. Everything comes packaged beautifully and securely, and there’s something for everyone. I love the fruity gin cocktails that I can make with the mixers while Owen prefers a traditional G&T. There are even things for Lila to enjoy (she loves the toddler friendly crisps and chocolate!) And thanks to Craft Gin Club, I’ve also discovered some new favourite beverages, both alcoholic and otherwise. That’s my favourite thing about these boxes – there’s a bundle of new things to try out every month that we wouldn’t discover otherwise, and some of the snacks and beverages from previous months’ boxes (blood orange cider and chocolate covered marshmallows immediately spring to mind) have become firm favourites in our household.
When we were shooting these photos in the meadows, we soon realised that we’d once again forgotten to bring a bottle opener, so we couldn’t make the cocktail of the month for the photos! (With every subscription box, you also get an issue of the Craft Gin Club magazine which has a variety of cocktail recipes and ideas including the cocktail of the month, the ingredients for which are included in the box.) So I quickly made a cocktail of my own creation with the Tassie gin, limeade, cocktail syrup, and dried pineapple garnish. And it was so good! I know next to nothing about making cocktails and with the ingredients in a Craft Gin Club box, I can just throw things together to my liking and get a delicious end result. Now that’s what I call magic!
This is July’s box that you can see in the photos – we’ve already received the box for August and I can’t wait to unbox it and try out the gin and other goodies inside! The boxes are £40 each and all of them have a full sized bottle of gin along with a range of tonics, mixers, garnishes and snacks to nibble on while flipping through the monthly magazine. Craft Gin Club also has frequent discounts on their website which make the boxes even better value! So here’s to a subscription box that never fails to delight, month after month *clink* And to more makeup free photoshoots (did you notice?)
I have a very long answer for why I’ve been neglecting my little space of the internet so long but that will have to wait for another day and another post. Instead of being concerned as to whether anyone is reading or growing my following I’ve decided to go back to the roots of my blog where I posted a mix of creative work, outfits and music videos (new and old) I’d share with my opinions, so here we are.
Jamie Lawson is someone I discovered in October 2014 prior to him having a record deal. He had known Ed Sheeran from the folk circuit way back when and Ed asked him on a whim to support his support act at Manchester Arena, less than a year later Jamie had a number one single and a record deal with Gingerbread Records.
This is the first single from his third album (well third album he’s released as a signed artist?) and he may not have grown to the global success of Sheeran but his music is from deep in his soul and you can hear that throughout every lyric. I took my dad to his tour back in 2016 for his first album and my dad said it was bit depressing (which some of the songs can be and yes I’ve now had at least a few tears each time I’ve seen him live)
I’m going to leave you with the opening verse because yeah. Just listen.
If I ask too many questions
It’s cause I can’t quite comprehend
How my soul’s in your possession
How in the world it all makes sense
Is there any explanation
How you’re always in my head
Why does my heart beat irregular rhythm
Could it be the touch that your hands keep giving
Your love this the answer.
Ari Seth Cohen
Photographer and author, Ari Seth Cohen, is the creator of Advanced Style, a project devoted “to capturing the sartorial savvy of the senior set.” He says, “I feature people who live full creative lives. They live life to the fullest, age gracefully and continue to grow and challenge themselves.”
Wearing ✶ Retro cotton print dress c/o Very Shop summer dresses at Very UK ✶ Self made hair bow ✶ Espadrilles and Bee shoulder bag, both c/o Very
It’s late August but I’m not ready to let go of summer yet! And with the August bank holiday weekend predicted to be sunny and warm, I’m hoping for one last river swim before the end of the season and holding on to my sundresses and sun hats. Last weekend, I wore this sweetest of summer dresses for a little trip to the Northumbrian market town of Rothbury. We’ve driven through Rothbury several times on our way to Cragside and Wallington, and I’ve always wanted to shoot some photos against the charming shopfronts and houses.
My entire outfit has been gifted by Very.co.uk (with the exception of my hair bow, which I made!) Very has so many delightful sundresses and maxi dresses in at the moment that are just perfect for summer holidays or a daytrip to a picturesque market town like this. It was hard to pick just one but in the end, this Monsoon dress in the most darling retro print had my heart. Everyone keeps saying that twee fashion is making a comeback but for me, it never left. I leaned heavily on the cutesy retro vibes with a red bee crossbody bag and cream espadrilles, both also from Very, and finished the look with a me-made hair bow and red lipstick. Matte red lipstick and winged liner is my go-to makeup look when I want I want to exude retro vibes without going into too much fuss. And my curling iron waves ended up looking like a messier version of pin up curls, which is the closest to pin up hair I’m ever going to get!
Regarding sizing, I’m wearing a size 20 in the dress and a size 8 in the shoes. In hindsight, I should have sized down to the 18 in the dress as the 20 is currently a bit too loose for me and this is meant to be a fitted style. If you look at reviews of this dress on Very and Monsoon, you’ll find a lot of people saying that it runs small, but that hasn’t been my experience at all – I feel that it’s quite true to size. The espadrilles felt a bit tight on my somewhat wide feet at first (I can wear both wide widths and regular, depending on the shoe) but after a bit of walking, they stretched out and were perfectly comfortable all day.
I hope you enjoyed this old school outfit post! I miss the days when I’d dissect my looks and discuss sizes and fit on this blog, and I think I need to bring it back. After all, twee fashion and outfit dissection is how I started blogging all those years ago!
Packing has become less of a guessing game for me, mostly because I’ve made enough mistakes to know what actually gets worn and what just takes the scenic route in my suitcase. (Looking at you, shoes that gave me blisters on day one and blouse that needed a cami so everything wasn’t on display). I’ve also learned that trying to dress like the locals can be a dismal failure when you’re abroad, especially after 50, so now I dress for myself.
These days, I pack more intentionally and I’ve built a travel wardrobe that feels appropriate, polished, and easy to wear. It’s not about dressing up, it’s about dressing in a way that feels like you, wherever you land. If you’re planning a trip and wondering what to wear abroad over 50, here’s what I’ve learned to skip and what I pack instead to feel confident, comfortable, and respectful on the road. You may also enjoy Why I’d Rather Be Overdressed (Every Time)
You may find these posts helpful too:
What Not to Wear Abroad for Women Over 50
Loud Logos Can Undermine a Polished Look
Wearing big brand names or graphic slogans might feel casual and fun at home, but abroad, especially in Europe, it can read more touristy than stylish. I prefer a quieter look when I travel with solid colors, subtle patterns, and timeless silhouettes. They’re easier to mix and match, and you’re less likely to feel out of place. Those loud, logo-heavy pieces can also make you a more obvious target for scams or pickpockets.
If you’re looking for more ways to elevate your travel wardrobe, you might enjoy my post on How to Look Expensive On Any Budget.
Athleisure Isn’t a Universal Dress Code
While leggings and athletic tops are standard weekend wear in the U.S., many cultures still see them as gym clothes, not daywear. I don’t wear workout clothes to run errands at home, and I certainly don’t pack them for travel. Instead, I count on easy, comfortable trousers, knit dresses, or relaxed silhouettes that are just as comfortable but feel a little more thoughtful. Here’s where things like my amazing Endless pants from Athleta come in. They feel as comfy as leggings but look elevated and put together.
Heavy Denim Can Weigh You Down
I love a great pair of jeans, but they’re not always the most practical for travel. They’re heavy, slow to dry, and stiff after a long day on your feet. If I do bring denim, it’s usually a lightweight, broken-in pair I know I’ll wear more than once. I usually favor breathable cotton pants or wide-leg linen styles. They take up less space and help me feel more put-together in warm weather. You may also find some new favorite travel pants here that pack like a dream and work just as well for sightseeing days as they do for dinner out.
Prioritize Shoes You Can Walk In All Day
Nothing will ruin a trip faster than sore feet. I’ve learned that the hard way. Now, I only pack shoes I’ve already worn and trust, like slip-on sneakers with arch support, cushioned flats, or a low wedge sandal with a sturdy sole. Style and comfort aren’t mutually exclusive. You just have to shop carefully.
Need a supportive, stylish travel shoe? You may find some options in these posts:
Keep Jewelry Understated and Low-Risk
When I travel, I leave anything valuable or sentimental at home, not out of fear but out of practicality. I pack a few classic pieces I wear every day at home, like silver hoops, a cuff bracelet, and a simple pendant. This is when nice costume jewelry is your best bet. It’s one less thing to worry about, and understated accessories tend to suit more settings anyway.
As for bags, a crossbody style that zips closed is always a smart choice. If it has anti-theft features or a slash-proof strap, it’s even better. My favorites are from Lo & Sons, but there are also plenty of affordable options on Amazon, like this one and this one.
Lighten Up on the Black
Black is elegant and dependable, but in hot weather, it can feel heavy and harsh. Instead, I suggest soft neutrals like beige, taupe, gray, or camel. These neutrals reflect light, keep you cooler, still hide dirt well, and photograph beautifully. If black is a non-negotiable in your wardrobe, I totally get it…balance it with breezy fabrics and lighter accessories. You might enjoy my tips on how to wear black without looking washed out or boring, for ways to make black clothing work for you, no matter where your travels take you.
Cultural Norms Deserve Respect
What feels normal at home might be inappropriate abroad, especially when visiting religious or historic sites where modesty is expected. In some places, exposed shoulders or knees aren’t welcome, and it’s best to be prepared. That doesn’t mean you need to cover head to toe, but it does mean planning ahead.
I always carry a scarf or light wrap in my bag. It takes no space, adds polish to any outfit, and can provide instant coverage when needed.
Pack Lightweight Layers for Changing Weather
Even in the middle of summer, weather can shift quickly. I always include a few layering pieces like a cotton or linen sweater, a knit blazer, or a light trench. These add flexibility and elevate even the simplest outfits. They also help me feel a little more finished, even when I’m living out of a suitcase.
Why This Matters
As we get older, getting dressed becomes less about following trends and more about trusting ourselves. When I travel now, I want to feel comfortable, appropriate, and like myself. That doesn’t happen by accident…it takes a little planning.
The right clothes won’t make the trip, but they can absolutely make it more enjoyable, while the wrong clothes can ruin your trip. You just move differently when you’re not tugging at your hem or hobbling in painful shoes.
Applying This to Your Wardrobe
If you’ve ever arrived at your destination and realized half your suitcase doesn’t work, you’re not alone. I’ve done it plenty of times…packed things I thought I might wear, only to rely on the same familiar few pieces day after day.
Now, I keep it simple by building a small travel capsule wardrobe with a handful of versatile clothes that mix easily, feel good in the climate, and suit the way I actually travel. It takes the guesswork out of getting dressed and helps me feel more put together with less.
You may also enjoy Cruise Wear for Women Over 50: What to Pack
Here’s what I usually include:
- 3–4 tops in breathable, easy-care fabrics
- 2–3 bottoms that pair well with everything else
- 1–2 dresses that can be styled up or down
- 1 lightweight layer for warmth or coverage
- 2+ pairs of shoes and or sandals for walking, with one slightly dressier
- A scarf, a crossbody bag, and a few simple accessories to finish the look
I focus on clothes that can handle a bit of walking, weather shifts, and repeat wear without requiring constant adjusting or attention.
You don’t need a suitcase full of options. Just a few well-chosen things that help you feel like yourself in unfamiliar places.
Do you have any travel plans abroad this year? I’d love to hear what you’re packing and the one thing you never pack anymore.
You May Also Enjoy
I’ll be totally honest. It had been a hot minute since I’d been to Universal up until this past weekend. I had an annual pass when I used to live in Florida but I hadn’t been back since I moved home 8 years ago. I learned SO much this past weekend about what makes Universal a great option for families and also for adults!
Universal is a lot smaller than Disney World. If you’ve ever been to Disneyland the layout of Universal is more similar to that. You could walk to the theme parks from any of the hotels. Some would be an easier/fast walk that others of course but still, it’s possible! I love that aspect. One thing I don’t love about Disney is that it’s so huge you’re walking 8 miles a day and are totally exhausted everyday. Universal feels more chill and less rushed since you should have enough time to do everything especially if you have an Express Pass.
The Express Pass is another thing that is very different from Disney’s Genie+. It’s no secret that most of us don’t love Genie+. It’s expensive, confusing to use, and causes you to spend half your day on your phone. The Express Pass is also pricey (if you don’t stay at a premier resort) but it’s a lot more user friendly. You literally just show your pass at the entrance of the line and you’re in the express pass lane! You can use this once per participating rides. You can also purchase the Express Pass unlimited- this allows you to ride in the Express Pass line an unlimited amount of times. With this system you just walk to whatever ride you want and get in line. No getting up at 7am and booking lightning lanes, no checking your phone constantly booking the next one and seeing what’s available and no zig zagging all over the parks to get to your next ride! I love this system and I think it’s totally worth the money!
Let’s talk resorts. My husband and I love a nice resort. I was so excited I got to tour the Universal Resorts! I was surprised how much I loved them! The pools are amazing, even at the value resorts! They have great large gyms, arcades, bars & restuarants and the higher level resorts have pool side services! I really feel like staying in a higher level Universal resort could give you the ability to have 2 vacations in one- a poolside high end resort vacation and a theme park vacation!
For years Universal has kind of advertised themselves as a place for adults and teens. Maybe even to their own detriment. I think they’re trying to change that stereotype and show that are also for families and younger kids! There’s tons of rides the little ones can go on so trust me they won’t be bored! As someone who is NOT a roller coaster fan there’s plenty for me to do as well! They have lots of great 3-D rides, shops and dining!
We will definitely be spending more time at Universal and their resorts! They have some great deals going on right now including 30% off a 5 night stay! Complete my form here to get started on booking your next adventure! https://forms.gle/fFwg5mY2mN5wb4CMA
**Disclaimer** Universal is not as plus size friendly as Disney. They do have tester seats in front of the rides and I’d encourage you to try those first if you think you might have an issue fitting on something.
May 27, 2025
Every year, Met Gala Red Carpet becomes a canvas for self expression, creativity and stunning looks. The 2025 version, the theme “Tailored For You”, challenged the attendees to resume personal identity through fashion prism, celebrate personality, cultural nuances and celebrate master tailoring. While the event dazzled with futuristic silhouettes and archival inspirations from the West, Indian personalities created a memorable place, and brought stories, heritage and textile expertise to global luxury fashion dialogue.
This year’s Met Gala was more than just an event for the Indian stars, it became a global performance of Indian craftsmanship, cultural pride and fashion innovation. Let’s take a deep dive into the assortment of what Indian celebrities wore and how they used the subject as an entrance for past and future stories.
Shah Rukh Khan: Debuting with Dignity and Drama
After many years of fan expectation, Bollywood’s biggest superstar Shah Rukh Khan debuted in Met Gala 2025 with a hint of drama, wearing an all black outfit prepared by her long term friend Sabyasachi Mukherjee.
He walked the red carpet in a black on black ensemble, featuring a custom tailored bandh gala sherwani crafted from Bengal silk and velvet. The appearance was elevated with rich embroidery inspired by the Mughal era, as well as antique brooches which caught a lot of attention. He also wore an iconic “K” Pendant and stacked rings which were symbolic of his family members.
He gave an indication of dandies from the 1800s, with a dramatic gold cane, and wore trendy sunglasses, which became a historical form of the modern cool. The presence of SRK was a master class in subtle power – emphasizing on elegance with timeless tailoring.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas: Drama, Dots, and a Dazzling Emerald
A regular at the Met Gala, Priyanka Chopra Jonas has come full circle from risk taker to red carpet queen. This time around, she teamed up with Balmain to design a drama filled look that stopped traffic and made headlines. She stepped out in a carved up black and white polka dot gown, a tribute to old school cinema and French haute couture. Her gown showcased cascading pleats, show stopping off the shoulder sleeves, and a tautly cinched waist, recalling mid century femininity but executed with bold modernity.
What really took her appearance to a higher level, however, was the Bvlgari Magnus Emerald necklace, holding a record breaking 241.06 carat faceted emerald—the largest ever set by the Italian brand. The gem, which bore a maharaja jewel like quality, spoke of both luxury and Indian royal heritage in perfect harmony with the evening theme.
Diljit Dosanjh: A Spiritual Statement Through Fashion
Diljit Dosanjh, India’s international music sensation and fashion rebel, amazed onlookers with an extremely symbolic outfit created by Prabal Gurung. His sherwani was ivory in color, but the reason it stood out was the incredible amount of cultural detail that had been worked into it. The cape flowing behind him was covered with the map of Punjab, lines of poetry in Gurumukhi, and small representations of gurdwaras and fields of wheat—celebrating both the earth and its spiritual legacy.
He sported a bejeweled turban, reminiscent of Sikh royalty, and a handmade kirpan with a lion head hilt. His accessories were one of a kind archival finds from Cartier’s Maharaja collection, blending vintage European luxury with South Asian resonance. Dosanjh’s appearance was not mere fashion—it was a cultural and spiritual homage.
Kiara Advani: Embodying Motherhood and Metaphor
For actress Kiara Advani, the Met Gala 2025 was close to the heart. Expecting her first child, she lived the moment of the theme’s emphasis on uniqueness and storytelling through a show stopping Gaurav Gupta creation. The evening gown was a sculpted black and gold masterpiece—boasting a metallic breastplate that revealed two hearts bound together by an umbilical cord, all sculpted from ethically sourced gold resin.
Her white organza cape, floor sweeping and in soft folds, was built around her like angel wings—in tribute to André Leon Talley, the late fashion editor with capes and a larger than life presence. Kiara’s step off the stairs wasn’t only visually strong—it was emotionally resonant, a celebration of femininity, motherhood, and strength.
Natasha Poonawalla: Parsi Pride Meets Paris Couture
Fashion lover and philanthropist Natasha Poonawalla has had experience being under the Met’s avant garde radar before, and in 2025 she broke the mold once again—this time with a powerful cultural message. Working with Manish Malhotra, Natasha’s ensemble honored her Parsi Zoroastrian roots. Two antique Parsi Gara sarees were disassembled and reconceived as an operatic fishtail skirt, worn with a bustier draping borrowed from European corsetry.
The pièce de résistance was her jacket: a fitted, long line embroidered blazer that referenced the ‘dagli’, a ceremonial Parsi robe. Her neckpiece—a lace cravat—was created by Atelier Biser, blending colonial era tailoring with contemporary femininity. Natasha’s look was a global history lesson in haute couture.
Isha Ambani: Jewels of a Dynasty, Threads of Tradition
As one of India’s foremost businesswomen and philanthropists, Isha Ambani walked the red carpet with grace in a custom gown by Anamika Khanna. The look included a handwoven Banarasi silk train that took more than 400 hours to make, paired with a modern structured blouse and pantsuit style jacket.
She also sported a vintage Cartier necklace belonging to Maharaja Digvijaysinhji of Nawanagar, which had been passed down through generations within her own family. Her look was an exquisite example of how royal legacy can intersect with contemporary silhouettes in strong, subtle ways.
Manish Malhotra: The Designer Becomes the Muse
Though he has dressed some of India’s biggest fashion names, Manish Malhotra himself stole the spotlight at the 2025 Met Gala. He donned an all black deconstructed sherwani cape hybrid, complete with elaborate embroidery in the shape of paisleys, Mughal jali motifs, and zardozi beads. The figure was deconstructed and bluntly cut, employing fabric sourced from artisans in Lucknow and Kutch.
Manish also wore pieces from his High Jewellery line—including a custom cluster brooch created from ethical diamonds and emeralds. His arrival was a testament that Indian designers are no longer relegated to the background—they are the narrative.
Sabyasachi Mukherjee: Walking His Talk
Renowned for revolutionizing Indian bridal and couture attire, Sabyasachi dressed for the Gala in one of his creations—a quilted ivory overcoat made from Bengal jamdani fabric. He paired this with a sharply cut black structured shirt and pants but took the look to the next level by accessorizing with antique rings, a multi strand gemstone choker, and a velvet feathered hat inspired by the courts of Nawab Lucknow.
Sabyasachi’s personal style mirrored his brand ethos: a balance of Indian tradition and global luxury. His look represented the artisans and weavers whose work is often unseen, making him not just a designer but a walking canvas of Indian heritage.
Mona Patel: Futuristic, Feminine, Fearless
Entrepreneur and art patron Mona Patel defied rules in a bespoke Thom Browne outfit with robotic design features. With Vector, a robotic dog in a tuxedo and 1000 carat diamond leash, Mona erased the boundary between fashion and futurism.
Her gown had mechanical butterfly wings, microchip embroidery, and a corset made of lab-grown diamonds. She used her moment to push for sustainable technology in fashion, and her robot pal has become one of the most mentioned moments of the night.
India’s Met Gala Moment: A Cultural Renaissance in Motion
What was so compelling about the Indian appearance at the 2025 Met Gala was the intersection of heritage storytelling, artisanal craftsmanship, and present day tailoring. Every look—whether a personal history, cultural iconography, or futuristic fantasy—served as a reminder to the world’s fashionistas that India is no longer a supporting actor on the world stage. It is the headline.
Unlike the frequently shorthand “exotic India” tropes that previously owned the fashion narratives, this year’s looks were about authenticity, detail, and smarts. From fields in Punjab to Parsi garas, from emerald dynasties to digital dogs, Indian celebrities and designers showed not only fashion—but identities.
Conclusion: Tailoring a Legacy for the Future
With the curtains dropping on the Met Gala 2025, one thing became clear: Indian celebrities are no longer posing on red carpets—they’re claiming them. Their appearance transcended fashion, offering monologues about motherhood, memory, technology, history, and belonging.
In an era where fashion can sometimes prove to be transitory, the arrival of Indian excellence at the Met Gala was a testament to the enduring might of storytelling on fabric, tailoring, and tradition. Whether it was Kiara’s motherly symbolism or Diljit’s Punjabi map, every stitch narrated a story—and the world heard.
It was scheduled for Friday, a full stop to a full conference programme. But to describe this walk as a full stop is erroneous. It suggests the end of something. That the point has been made and that there’s nothing more to say. The future is formed. Which will never be the case. Below are some fleeting reflections on this walk, which touch upon both the potential of walking as an experimental pedagogy and as a space in which critical questions about how we might fashion new ways of thinking are asked. This is especially pertinent to CSF’s thinking about fashion education as a form of ‘the commons’. It draws on Isabelle Stengers’ work on Cosmopolitics.
A walk is an opening, an invitation for more. A walk, despite its time bound nature, is continuous, a state of ongoingness, an action, a verb. It is this ongoingness which appeals to me both personally and professionally. A walk creates a space not about answers but about thinking, being, talking, moving, listening, feeling. There is (on walks) and was (on this walk), spontaneity, confusion (which way shall we go, will we become stuck?), connection, joy, humour, awkwardness and a feeling of the unknown, of the possible.
A walk speaks to Isabelle Stengers’ Cosmopolitical Proposal and it’s call to ‘slow down’ and ‘think in the presence of others’ (2005). As we (at CSF) explore what fashion education for sustainability underpinned by a commitment to justice and equity looks like, Stenger’s work encourages reflection on how new forms of learning and knowing might emerge. Equality is not a pre-given state. It is an ongoing process of making visible and attending to the plurality of agencies and needs of both humans and more-than-humans. What, she encourages us to think about, are the consequences of making visible other ways of knowing and the messiness and challenge that comes with that. In a fashion system/culture of endless to do lists, calls for solutions, measurements, and deadlines, a walk offers a rare opportunity for thinking about our practice of walking, while walking and beyond walking.
While the appeal of walking is the possibility and the potential for critical reflection, a walk is still a sum of its parts. Of participants and their incomplete knowledges, their moods, and emotions. Of place, the terrain, the weather, the sounds. How much prompting is required? What is the structure of time and direction? I favoured looseness. Slowness. Weirdly, this felt like a risk. Was the time too loose, too open, too purposeless? Too stark a difference to our working norms? Into my pockets I stuffed some prompts – a way of holding the group together? A mitigation strategy in case of silence or discomfort? Or useful, to bring focus? Stengers’ reassures, to ‘think in the presence of others’ is slow and messy. It is, to complete the full title of her works – a ‘speculative adventure’ – a space for new questions to emerge. It is this potential that a walk holds for me.
Yet to be true to Stengers’ call, is to problematise this walk. Embedded in Stengers’ call for collective thinking is the inclusion of those who would ‘be likely to be disqualified’. Holding this lightly, questions emerge. How might the river be included as an active agent in provoking new ways of thinking? Rather than just being part of the scenery through which we walked. What about the bats, by whose homes we stopped by, while discussing the human homes edging the paths where we walked. How can others be included in academic events, when costly tickets are required and membership to the academy is expected? And how does that sit, with those of us, walking and talking about a Stratford here (E20) and there (E15)? If fashion education is a form of commons, then who is in the commons and who is not? To walk and ‘think in the presence of others’ is then to question our knowledge and our authority. Our intention and our ideas about how we might create a more just common world or fashion system.
It troubles the assumptions of a universal us or we. What does it mean to say (as I did in the event blurb) that we (those on the walk) can ideate ways fashion education can nurture fashion practices that allow for human and planetary flourishing? If ‘human and planetary flourishing’ is the goal, how can the planet itself, and the humans whose livelihoods and existences are fundamentally shaped by the fashion industry, truly be present and active in the ideation process? As, I mentioned earlier, what about the bats, the rivers, the communities through which we walked? Thinking with Stengers’ asks me (we?) to confront the limitations of this group (or indeed, any group) to define flourishing for all. This, in turn, only forefronts the need for more expansive participation. For more criticality. More reflexivity. And ultimately, for more care.
Picking back up on the theme of ongoingness, this walk was part of a series of CSF walks exploring walking as an experimental methodology for critical and collective fashion practice. Inspired by the ‘de-fashion walk’ organised by Sophie Barr and Sarah May in 2023, and the walking conversation from CSF’s Imagining Possibilities Festival last year. We were accompanied on this walk by sound artist Beth Robertson who will produce a soundwork to sit alongside it. We are developing our next walk exploring the possibility of Hope.
Stengers, Isabelle (2005). The cosmopolitical proposal. In Bruno Latour & Peter Weibel, Making Things Public: Atmospheres of Democracy. Mit Press (Ma). pp. 994-1003.
Exploring Disney Cruise Line: Comparing All Three Ship Classes
I’ve had the pleasure of sailing on all three classes of Disney Cruise Line ships, and I’m excited to share my honest feedback! As a devoted Disney enthusiast, Disney Cruise Line holds a special place in my heart. It’s my favorite cruise line for a reason: it’s more “all-inclusive” than many others, and no one does entertainment quite like Disney. That said, each class of ship offers unique experiences, with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Let’s dive into the details!
The Magic Class: Magic and Wonder
The Magic and Wonder are sister ships with similar layouts but distinct theming and shows. While they are the smallest and oldest ships in the fleet, don’t let that discourage you. They’re still brimming with Disney magic! Here are some highlights and considerations:
Positives:
- Incredible Shows: These ships have my favorite entertainment lineup of all three classes.
- Spacious Adults-Only Areas: I particularly enjoyed the hot tubs in these areas.
- Animator’s Palate: The interactive dining experience is especially enchanting on these ships.
Considerations:
- Smaller Size: The ship’s size means there’s less to explore compared to larger vessels.
- Food Options: While none of the food was bad, it was my least favorite compared to the other classes.
The Dream Class: Dream and Fantasy
The Dream was my introduction to Disney cruising, making it extra special to me. These mid-sized ships strike a balance between intimacy and spaciousness, and they’re ideal for families and Disney fans alike.
Positives:
- Memorable Shows: “The Golden Mickeys” was a standout for me.
- Interactive Fun: The detective game onboard is a fantastic way to spend a day at sea.
- Balanced Size: The Dream and Fantasy feel just right in terms of scale—not too big, not too small.
Considerations:
- Adults-Only Areas: These felt lacking compared to other classes. The hot tub space was limited, and the pool area was small and chilly.
- Restaurant Theming: Aside from Animator’s Palate, the restaurants didn’t offer much in terms of immersive decor or entertainment.
The Triton Class: Treasure,Wish, & Destiny
I had the incredible opportunity to experience a preview cruise on the Treasure, and it exceeded my expectations! As the newest and largest ships in the Disney fleet, the Treasure and Wish set a new standard for cruising magic.
Positives:
- Stunning Decor: The detailed theming and artwork throughout the ship are breathtaking.
- Exceptional Food: From the main dining rooms to the pool deck, the culinary offerings were the best of all three classes.
- Adults-Only Infinity Pool: This area was spacious and beautifully designed, making it a highlight for relaxation.
- Coco-Themed Dining Experience: The food and accompanying musical show were deeply moving and memorable.
Considerations:
- Limited Show Variety: The Treasure currently offers only two full productions—“Moana” (which is spectacular) and “Beauty and the Beast” (a bit overplayed for me).
- Exclusively Seven-Night Sailings: While the longer sailings are a treat, the limited show options felt like a missed opportunity.
My Personal Rankings
While each ship class has its own charm, here’s how I rank them overall and in specific categories:
- Overall: Treasure, Dream, Magic
- Rooms: Treasure, Magic/Dream (tie)
- Food: Treasure, Dream, Magic
- Kids’ Clubs: Treasure, Dream, Magic
- Shows: Magic, Dream, Treasure
- Shopping: Treasure, Magic, Dream
- Adults-Only Areas: Magic, Treasure, Dream
- Bars/Lounges: Treasure, Dream, Magic
- Service: Magic, Dream, Treasure
Ready to book your next vacation?! Contact me today at kathryn@straightawaytravel.com!
Final Thoughts
These rankings reflect my personal opinions and preferences, and every ship in the Disney fleet has something magical to offer. Ultimately, the best ship for you will depend on your priorities, whether that’s the itinerary, onboard amenities, or show offerings.
If you haven’t sailed with Disney Cruise Line yet, I’d love to help you plan your dream vacation. No matter which ship you choose, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience! What’s your favorite Disney ship? Let me know in the comments or reach out to start planning your next adventure!