The Stranger x UNIQLO

I am in love with Notting Hill. There are pastel houses, the roads are plastered with cafes, free wi-fi, and a quietness foreign to other parts of London I have explored so far. These photos are taken on the streets of Notting Hill, as part of a project for UNIQLO. If you’re uncomfortable seeing me in a t-shirt, just pretend I’m casually recreating The Scarlet Letter.

UT by UNIQLO is hosting a styling contest. It’s ridiculously easy to join. Just take a photo of yourself wearing something from UT by UNIQLO, submit your photo, and you could win $10,000! If you’re interested in learning more, simply head over to the contest page.

On a side note…

Dear the new barista in the Notting Hill EAT right outside of the tube station,

You keep fidgeting nervously and glancing back and forth while I make my order.

“A black Americano please.”

You glance at me for a split second and your gaze hurries back to the cash register. I adore the way you fumble around nervously to process my order, and then surrender when you mess up my order. “Sorry! This is my first day!” I smile and tell you not to worry about it. I try to stall time, because I enjoy observing you.

“Is there free wifi here?”

“Yes there should be!” You stutter nervously.

You push up your glasses, and your eyes scroll towards my direction… almost… come on… look into my eyes… Nope. The cash register has all your attention again. I walked into this cafe in a terrible mood, ready to write a gigantic homage to solitude. But my mind is blank, and I can’t stop staring at you. You are blushing and your face is as red as a tomato. You are just my type. I would like to tell you I fancy you, but I’m an introverted, shy mess too.

I’m not as bitchy as I look, I promise. In fact, I think you’re adorable.

xo, M.

P.S. I am about to spend another 4 pounds on an overpriced sandwich so I have an excuse to talk to you again.


UT by UNIQLO shirt, H&M skirt, Yves Saint Laurent heels

Photographer: Mark K