Wonderful You | Fashion and Style Blog: March 2013

Friday, 29 March 2013

Take me to another galaxy | Outfit Post

I must admit that I rather loved having the snow around for my outfit posts, but I'm glad to see the back of it (for now); did anyone else have snow drifts? Some of the ones around my village were absolutely crazy and created snow-walls higher than my car!! Any way, how very British of me - let's stop the chitchat about the weather and get on to this little number...

Dress: c/o She Likes. Brogues: Urban Outfitters

I don't usually go for little tight dresses, but there was something quite endearing about this one - it feels playful, young and of course colourful. As you know I'm usually head to toe in black but the purples and blues in this dress are gorgeous and I love the contrast of the galaxy print against the snow. She Likes is a clothing brand I'm loving at the moment - quality, beautiful pieces for an absolute steal, this little badboy was only £15!!! And at those prices you can't really go wrong can you?

Do you lovely lot have much planned over the Easter weekend? Daniel and I booked some extra time off either side of the bank holiday's so that we ended up with a week off (yippee!!). It's mainly going to be a time to relax and do not much of anything, but we are going to be looking at a few houses which is quite exciting...I feel like such a grown-up writing that.

p.s. My little blog is a whole year old on 4th April, how crazy is that?! I can't quite believe it :)

Tuesday, 26 March 2013

Elemis Fresh Skin | Skin Clear Overnight Serum

You may remember from a while back on Elemis’ new skincare range. There were a few items in there that were really lovely, but as a whole the range wasn’t tailored particularly well to my skin. The lovely people at Elemis read my review, got back in contact and asked if I would like to try some of the Fresh Skin range aimed at blemished and problematic skin. Of course I said yes – I’m always looking for products that will help sort out my troublesome skin.

There a few products that I will be writing about from the range, but first up is the Skin Clear Overnight Serum. This product is aimed at blemished prone skin and aims to work its magic whilst you’re sleeping. Now – the bottle instructs you to apply a thin layer across the whole of your face; but being wary of anything I haven’t tried before I wasn’t very willing to slop a whole face full of this serum on. Instead I used a pea sized amount and spread it across the areas that were suffering with a few howlers as well as applying across my t-zone where I suffer with larger pores.

The smell isn’t at all overpowering and the serum sinks well into the skin without leaving a sticky residue (let’s face it, nobody wants that), whilst providing a cooling sensation on the skin. I have to say I’m really impressed with the results - the spots that were bulbous, red and painful the night before are left calmer, smaller and less prominent and my pores were tightened. Now I’m not going to fib and say it got rid of all my spots overnight, it didn’t – but it definitely helped to reduce them and take away the pain without drying out the area which I’ve found to be a common thing in most acne/spot treatments. My spots now hang around for 3 days, instead of 2 weeks.

It’s the most sensitive spot solution product I’ve tried to date (trust me, I’ve been through them all) and for the £17.99 price tag, it’s definitely going to be something I’ll keep as a staple in my routine. I’m not sure that I’ll ever use it as an all over treatment – perhaps when my skin and hormones change and is less sensitive I could use it to even out my entire skin-tone but for now the next products on my list are the facial wash and moisturiser…fingers crossed!

Have you tried anything from the Elemis Fresh Skin range? What were your thoughts?

Monday, 25 March 2013

Let it snow.

Oh, hello ridiculous weather at the end of March - what's that I hear the public say 'there was a heatwave this time last year'? Oh sod it, who actually cares? Let's just embrace the fact that we can make snowmen and perhaps have a day or two in the house getting bits and bobs done. And also, let's appreciate the fact that it makes your garden look very pretty indeedy and perfect for a spot of outfit snapping.

Blazer: Zara. Dress: Topshop. Hat: Accessorize. Belt: Primark. Shoes: Urban Outfitters. Lips: Urban Decay Theodora

I love the winter, and I love wearing my big jumpers and leggings but sometimes (and I really mean sometimes) it's quite lovely to find a dress that actually keeps you warm in these colder months but still looks pretty and not like a sack for potatoes.
This weekend Daniel and I literally stayed in bed, watched Grand Designs and ventured out to Nando's for about an hour on Saturday (hence me actually getting ready). My Zara blazer I picked up in duty free has come in handy since I've been back from Aus and I have to say I'm rather attached to my little leopard beret.

Did you all have a good weekend? Short week this week - and mines even shorter (hehe) I've only got to work until Wednesday and then I'm off until the following Wednesday YAAAAY! Have a great week everyone :)

Sunday, 24 March 2013

Alpro #deskfest: Breakfast Day 3

The last day of my Alpro #deskfest is something that really fits the criteria; it’s perfect to have on the go, and at your desk, whether it is a morning or afternoon treat.

I mentioned in the first #deskfest post that I’m not milks biggest fan. I can just about cope with it in my cereal and a splash in my tea – but you’d never see me indulge in a whole glass before bed (or whenever it is you drink a glass of milk, blergh). Alpro may have just about changed my mind - the thought never entered my head to try flavoured milk, or a flavoured milk alternative and I’m really quite excited. The taste of this hazelnut drink is so yummy, a glass is reasonably filling and you’re getting some vital vitamins including B2 (energy metabolism), B12 (skin, hair and nails), D (weight loss) and E (reduces cholesterol). There’s also no lactose or animal fat so it’s an all-round healthy, tasty drink. I'm thinking of using it to do some baking too, perhaps some hazelnut pancakes?

Have you tried a milk alternative? Or any of the new products from the Alpro range?

Saturday, 23 March 2013

Alpro #deskfest: Breakfast Day 2

Thursday was the first day of my participation in Alpro's #deskfest challenge. I received a tweet from them yesterday telling me I'd won a little prize for best picture! *fist pump* I didn't even know that was a thing, so that was very exciting - has anyone else won one?

Day 2 I had a little bit more time on my hands, to sit down at the table and actually eat my breakfast. I'm never one for over-indulging in the morning, it leaves me feeling stodgy and like I need to go back to bed so I always prefer something filling, but light. (Although, I would never dream of missing breakfast - that would equal one grumpy moo).

Alpen is my favourite cereal ever ever. The hundreds of little raisins give it that extra flavour and it is super filling, I always feel like I have a better day when I start it with that.
Topped with 4 whole strawberries and Alpro's vanilla pouring yoghurt I was very satisfied indeedy.
Of course, you can't go anywhere in the morning without a glass of tropicana too.

What did you have for breakfast today? Have any of you decided to take part in #deskfest since my last post?

Thursday, 21 March 2013

Alpro #deskfest: Breakfast Day 1

Healthy eating is something that I’m slowly but surely introducing into my routine – and so far it’s been kept most steady with breakfast. So when Alpro contacted me and asked me to take part in their #deskfest challenge I was more than willing to give it a shot! They sent me some rather yummy pouring yoghurts, a hazelnut drink and some almond milk.

This morning was one of those days that you wake up late, and literally have no time to scrape your hair back, let alone plan what you’re going to eat for breakfast. On days like today I thank the kitchen for providing me with a blender (by the kitchen, I mean Mum).

Yogurt is one of my favourite things to accompany my breakfast so I thought I’d whack it in the blender with some strawberries and frozen raspberries to create a thick, tasty smoothie. I went for the simply plain one and the taste is SO GOOD. The consistency is runny enough to make it easy enough to drink but thick enough to be filling. It took me all of 2 minutes to make, and felt so refreshing.

If I’m honest Alpro isn’t a brand I’d tried before but the fact that it suits every diet is something that is so appealing. Alpro use soya to create their products, which is a plant-based extract, creating a naturally healthy alternative to milk. Milk is something I try to avoid where I can – I quite dislike the taste, so I’m excited to try the drinks and see how they compare!

#deskfest involves bloggers creating 3 of their own breakfast recipes and sharing them with their readers, but absolutely anyone can take part by tweeting their pictures, sharing on instagram using the #deskfest hashtag or simply just uploading their pictures to the Alpro website.

Are any of you taking part? I'd love to see your pictures or blog posts if you are. And please do let me know if you enjoyed reading this and would like to see more foody posts on Wonderful You?

Tuesday, 19 March 2013

The Sister Tag!

I've never had anyone in my video's before - so I was very excited to film this one...you can probably tell from me practically bursting with joy haha.
Any way - I have a sister, she is awesome and I thought it would be quite fun to film the Sister TAG!

I hope you all enjoy it - and here's the questions we answered..

How old are you both?

Describe each other in one word?

Do people ever get you mixed up?

What is something that annoys you about one another?

Do you ever argue?

Whats the best thing about one another?

Fave memory together?

Full sisters/half/step?

Guess each others fave singer?

Who takes longer to get ready

Heels or flats? 

Pants or dresses? 

Favorite animal? 

If your house was burning down, and your entire family was sure to be okay, what would you save and why?

Comedy, horror, or chick-flick?

Blackberry or iPhone? 

Favorite movie?

What is something weird that you eat?

Do you guys have anything matching?

What's your favorite TV show?

And we TAG everyone that want's to take part :D

Monday, 18 March 2013

Black or White?

Little needs to be said about this outfit - quite frankly I think it does the talking all on it's own. Who would've thought there would be another post of me wearing black? If you're shocked, pick your jaws up off the floor and let's talk monochrome.

Hat: Topshop. Top: H&M. Skirt: c/o Karma Clothing. Blazer: Topshop. Brogues:: Urban Outfitters

This is what I wore to work last week - and I'm chuffed that I didn't bother taking some snaps on the particular day because I woke up yesterday and we had SNOW. Dear weather, it is March what are you doing? But I'm not complaining I ruddy love snow and it leaves the perfect opportunity for a slight change of scene on the old outfit posts.

The dress code for my work is smart/casual and I'd say that's exactly what this outfit represents. This skirt is the ultimate swisher and that makes me very, very happy. At £10.99 it's a frickin' steal and the fabric is so thick and hangs so beautifully you'd think it was treble the price. Teamed with my Topshop blazer and hat, Urban Outfitter brogues and a trusty H&M long sleeved top I feel warm enough to make the journey from the car to the office but stay nice and toasty all day at work.

What are your thoughts on monochrome for this season? It's no surprise to my wardrobe but is it too plain for you?

p.s. if you haven't already, pretty please go and vote for me in the Company Style Blogger Awards!

Sunday, 17 March 2013

Wonderful You Reviews | Imperial Leather Shower Range

I have super duper sensitive skin – so when it comes to washing my body I have to be quite choosy with the products I purchase; if there’s too much going on then my skin will just say ‘hell no’ and bring me out in a beautiful rash. A firm favourite in my shower is the Sanex cream body wash, but let’s face it I’m not bowled over by the very plain scent and it does feel a bit clinical. When I was contacted and asked to try out one of the new Imperial Leather shower gels I was excited – their products have always been so gentle on my skin and smell like heaven in a bottle.

Japanese Spa Imperial Leather Shower Gel (c/o)

Of course – I wasn’t disappointed the consistency is so thick and creamy, a little goes a long way lathering up tremendously it just feels like you are rubbing wonderfulness into your skin. I’m particularly fond of the applicator – the suction from the dispenser is so strong that you get almost no waste, if you don’t squeeze the bottle hard enough it will literally just suck back the product which not only makes me giggle, but c'mon it's highly practical too ;)

The scent is so subtle but absolutely gorgeous and the green tea and the jasmine complement each other so well - added to the rice milk it's the most relaxing, refreshing scent. Above all it's moisturising which is why it gets such a big thumbs up from me. My skin feels hydrated and silky soft - since I've been using this I haven't been reaching for my moisturise half as much. There are heaps of scents to choose from in the new range and each are dermatologically tested, with a skin friendly PH that makes it gentle enough for the most sensitive skin types.
A whopping 750ml bottle will set you back a measly £2.89 and 300ml is a teensy £1.89 - which is affordable skincare at it's best.

What are your thoughts on Imperial Leather? Have you got your mits on any of the new range?

Tuesday, 12 March 2013

A Plea...Company Style Blogger Awards

Hello my loverlies.

Hope you all had a jolly weekend? Now it's back to the grindstone I thought I would all ask a bit of a cheeky favour from you...

This little blog is coming up to a year old in April, yes you heard me - a whole frickin' year, not that we feel any older, eh? And since I've tried to work my tooshy off to rock some outfit posts over the past 11 months it would absolutely make my entire LIFE (yes I mean it), if you could vote for me in the 2013 Company Style Blogger Awards.

You can nominate me for whichever category you fancy, although the one I'm keeping my fingers, toes, arms, legs and eyes crossed for is the Best Fashion Blog - Newcomer

I know lot's of people aren't too fond of these posts, and I know that there have been heaps of people asking for their readers to vote, so I totally understand if it's not something you want to do! But of course, if you have a spare minute I would massively appreciate it :). If you want to nominate me, you can do so here and don't forget you can vote as many times as you like! :D Have a great week!

Sunday, 10 March 2013

Another Outfit Post...

Do you guys get a bit bored of how I tend to wear black, all the time? I don’t know what it is, but I just feel so much better in it and feel that then when I do buy something a little bolder I cherish it a little more, you know? So of course this outfit is me wearing black, sorry to disappoint haha but there is a pop of colour – so it’s not all doom and gloom :)

Dress: Zara. Coat: Zara. Scarf: c/o Hannah Belle. Belt: Thrifted. Boots: c/o Zalando. Nails: Barry M Gelly Polish in blueberry. Lips: Rimmel Apocalips in Stellar. Earrings: c/o Temporary Secretary

I picked this Zara dress up in duty free at Heathrow before jetting off to Australia; I actually really really love it. It’s the silkiest, most luxurious fabric and the lace panels down the side take it from a standard slip dress to something so pretty. It doesn’t have much shape to the middle so I hoisted it in with my vintage bead belt (clearly wearing this to death) to add a little definition to my non-existent waist. You remember Hannah Belle? I thought this gorgeous scarf with hints of fuscia pink running through would go perfectly and it is SO soft and large, I can wear it just how I like – all rolled round into one big snood-like comfort blanket! Now obviously I had to have something to match the scarf and how frickin’ gorgeous are these boots from Zalando? Velvet is a dear friend of mine and when it comes in the form of pink boots I’m dribbling all over the place – it’s definitely love.

I figure it doesn’t really matter too much if you feel more comfortable in a plain colour, if you’re adding pops of prettiness here and there :)

Wednesday, 6 March 2013

Apricot Lane Necklace GIVEAWAY!

Late last year I was lucky enough to win some Apricot Lane Jewellery from the beautiful Aubry’s blog. I showed it off on Instagram and so many people loved it I thought a perfect way to end my 3-part giveaway would be with another beautiful piece from their collection, courtesy of Aubry herself!

It's a beauuuuutiful statement necklace - to be honest I'm a little bit jealous that it's not mine! Big, chunky, bold necklaces are a firm favourite of mine. Day to day I tend to go a little plain Jane with my outfits, and a necklace like this can take your appearance from casual, to fabulous :)

I hope you all love it as much as I do! Make sure you're following the beauty that is Aubry on her blog for a chance to win, and follow the details below to earn extra entries! The giveaway will be running for one week and is open internationally.

Once again, a big mahooooosive thank you to each and every one of you that reads my ramblings and watches my craziness - as cheesy as it sounds you lovely people really make blogging so much more amazing. You're just wonderful :) GOOD LUCK!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday, 3 March 2013

The Vintage Set | How to Style...

As you well know, The Vintage Set is one of my favourite shops online. I was a little bit over the moon when the ever gorgeous Charlotte contacted me and asked if I’d like to receive an item to style on my blog. Of course, being the vintage perve that I am, I said yes.

Firstly, let’s appreciate the cuteness of the cardigan and give Charlotte a massive thumbs up for her vintage thrifting eye. I’ve taken quite a fancy to corals of late and I’m severely lacking in the cardigan department, so this was a welcome addition to my wardrobe.

Secondly, this post will be a tad different from my usual – I’m going to show you how I would style this beauty for two different occasions. As you’ve probably picked up from on my other outfit posts I like to try and add something exciting to my outfit every day, I think it’s important to make the most of yourself and your wardrobe! (Of course we all have lazy days, where we sit writing blog posts in our pyjamas, ahem). But I thought it would be quite interesting to show you how I’d wear this outfit for a night out i.e. casual drinks / a bit of a boogie and also for just a casual mooching, shopping day! I think sometimes people are a bit nervous of shopping vintage - I want to show you how it can easily fit in with today's fashion, and make an outfit that little bit more interesting!

Cardigan: c/o The Vintage Set. Disco Pants: American Apparel. Shoes: Zara. Belt: Thrifted

I haven’t worn my disco pants for a while now, I find myself doing this all the time – I fall in love with something, wear it to death and then it gets made redundant to the back of my wardrobe for probably the rest of life. But when I saw this cardigan I knew I would pair them together. I quite like matching a bit of bagginess with tighty-tighty – and teamed with my little Zara heels I felt every inch Olivia Newton-John (/ of course I didn’t but you know).

Dress: Olive & Frank. Boots: Hudson of London

When I opt for a bit of comfort in an outfit it’s usually ‘let’s have no shape, be floaty and be done with it’ - In moo land (that’s my nickname, yes I’m cool) that’s the definition of comfort. I think the cardi matches perfectly with my little slip dress from Olive & Frank and it’s definitely a Sunday lunch type of outfit.
Please do take a peek at The Vintage Set website, and give them a follow on to be the first to know about special discounts and bargain vintage buys!

What do you think about how I’ve styled the cardigan? How would you style yours?

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