Since moving to London last September for university, my eyes have been opened to new ways of living; contrasting cultures that have pushed me out of my comfort zone and a fresh view on life- a clean slate you may call it. I'm just a girl born and raised from Essex- and whatever you have heard, it's not true. We have brains and don't walk around in heels with our miniature dogs in ginormous bags (unlike the outrageous stereotypes portrayed in TOWIE).
What better way to share my London experience than in the form of blogging. From Essex girl to London girl, my little diary will provide an outsiders perspective of the big city- with a little sprinkle of fashion, beauty and lifestyle, of course.
London has always had a stereotype. From a young age, I remember having family outings to museums, theatres, sightseeing- the usual touristy business that can be considered every body's guilty pleasure… you know it's true. But I couldn't help but notice the tall, stern business men and women, suited and booted in their shiny shoes and flamboyant suits. The image couldn't be more magnificent, a world away from what you'd see on the streets of Essex. But there seemed to be one thing missing… a smile.
Of course not every Londoner or commuter has stern features, but the beauty of a smile when passing others still seems to be absent. You know that old saying that laughter is infectious- the same can be said for smiling. So, me being experimental and as curious as I am, I decided to put this to the test.
On my treacherous journey to uni- the same day this epitome struck me- I wore my biggest smile. Grinning at all of the busy business men and women that walked past, I received some casual nods- a reaction that acknowledged my friendly gesture but a grade down from the smiles I was looking for.
Everybody seemed so caught up in getting to work on time or dashing to catch the bus or tube, that a simple second to smile seemed an inconvenience- after all, time is money, right?
But as I entered a lift with a woman sporting a pencil skirt and black patent Jimmy Choo peep toes - a situation that British people find typically awkward- there was a revelation. My grin was reciprocated! Without avoiding eye contact or forcing the friendly atmosphere, I blurted out: "I love your shoes". Had I gone a step too far? The woman gave a soft laugh with a warm smile and went on to say that she loved my emerald, checked jacket- a charity shop find I have to add!
Whilst stepping out of the lift, she looked back and smiled. My mission was complete! A simple Essex girl and stereotypical business woman had come together for those few seconds as if two worlds had collided.
It goes to show how much a simple smile can make somebodies day. From a soft grin to a compliment, the friendly acknowledgement allows us to step back for a second, away form the hustle and bustle form the streets of London and experience a euphoric feeling of content. A smile can go a long way and like the old wives tales say, smiling can actually be contagious.
After all of that, isn't it amazing how women can bond so quickly over fashion… just fabulous!
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