Glam

Monday, 30 September 2013

Food for Thought | Who are we? Where are we going?

Last night I found myself in a place I regularly find myself lately, pondering life.

What am I actually doing? Where am I going? Where do I want to go? It’s something that I regularly beat myself up about and let myself get absorbed in on far too many weekday evenings.

With these sort of problems we always assume that we are alone. Let’s face it we can all be a little self absorbed sometimes and like to think that we’re the only person suffering with one particular problem, and that no-one could possibly understand. Well, my tweet last night proved me wrong. SO many people seem to be feeling the same and from the replies I received sparked the idea for this post.

I’m 24 years old and to date I have pretty much no idea what I want to do with my life. I have a job and I love my blog, but I can’t sit here and say that it’s what I envisaged for my life, although I also have no idea what I envisaged. To write this down brings tears to my eyes and to be honest, makes me feel a little bit ill. It's never nice to admit publicly that maybe you haven't got it all figured out.

But what I did realise last night was that hey, it’s okay to not know exactly what we want right now. Yes, there are some people who discover their future careers and lifestyles when they are picking their A Levels, there are some that pick the exact course they will pursue a job in for the rest of their lives at university but there are also the people who don’t – and there’s nothing wrong with that.

What I’m trying to say is – we will all get there and it doesn’t matter how long it takes us, or how old we are by the time we do. Life isn’t a race or a competition (although it can feel like that sometimes) and our way of doing things are just a little different to others.

There are people who choose to be big flying career driven individuals and that’s absolutely fantastic, but I know that I will never be that person. Yes I want to succeed in what I do, but I also know that I am not particularly driven by money, or feel there is a definitive job I have to have and nothing else will do. 

What I think is most important is that we don’t focus on what other people are doing and just take time for ourselves. This is the time when it is okay to be a little bit selfish. I don’t have the answers as to how we will get to where we will end up and I think us continuously searching for them isn’t going to get us anywhere either, because in short there are no definitive answers. Each of us will find our way and with a sprinkle of positivity we might just get there a little bit quicker...don’t sweat the small stuff, keep a smile on your face and try and see the bright side of what can seem a shitty situation. Most of the time we are our own worst enemy and if we had a little more faith in ourselves we might be pleasantly surprised at how productive that could be.

Because...we are good people and we shouldn’t be so hard on ourselves. The people who are where they want to be in their lives (like my boyfriend Daniel for example) definitely had to go through some pretty rubbish times too to get that point, so bear that in mind when you feel the world is against you.

Our futures are just around the corner and let’s just enjoy our lives until we reach that point :)

I'm always here for anyone who needs a chat and like the good old Ernest Hemingway once said:

"If something is wrong, fix it if you can. 
But train yourself not to worry. Worry never fixes anything".


Saturday, 28 September 2013

If I was a Rich Girl | My Avenue 32 Wishlist

1.Carven Pink Crushed Wool Skirt. 2. Cedric Charlier Marine Shearling Leather Jacket. 3. J.W. Anderson Black Ten Pleat Skirt. 4. Cedric Charlier Pink Structured Top. 5. Carven Lilac Printed Leather Bag. 6. Carven Pink Angora Turtleneck Jumper. 7. J.W. Anderson Orange Wool Branded Jumper. 8. Eddie Borgo Rose Gold Pave Cone Studs. 9. J.W. Anderson Black Leather Mini Skirt.  
Daydreaming and pretending that I am a high flying business woman with a humongous salary to match is what I've found myself doing this morning. So when I discovered Avenue 32 I just had to share them with you lovely lot. Even though the price tags are pretty hefty, we all like to pretend we’re able to make these extravagant purchases sometimes and if I was, this is the first place I’d stop off at.

From the stunningly gorgeous pink wool skirt by Carven that I would happily go matchy-matchy on with the Cedric Charlier structured top; to that absolutely amazing jacket that I would probably sell my KA for and team up with those beaut Eddie Borgo earrings and J.W. Anderson leather mini-skirt to complete a match made in heaven. Who needs a car when you can have clothes...(ahem). Well a girl can dream, right?

What designers are you loving at the moment? I have to say Carven is a front runner for me!

Also - being my first fashion wishlist post, I'd love to know if this is something you'd like to see more of? Let me know :)

*this is a featured post


Thursday, 26 September 2013

Back to Basics




Maxi Skirt: Influence c/o Triple S Clothing. Beaded Crop: Miss Selfridge. Belt: ASOS. Lipstick: Topshop Fire Cracker

Sometimes I will stand in front of my wardrobe for what seems like an eternity, you know when you just have no idea what you want to wear or how you want to look. But sometimes, you open the doors and you know – you want to be comfy, you want something low maintenance and something easy. Well this outfit is the result of one of those type of days.
With the weather being warmer than I anticipated for late September, this jersey maxi skirt is super soft and comfortable and can easily be worn when the sun is shining or layered up when it gets colder. I picked up this beaded crop from Miss Selfridge a few years ago – granted it’s lost a few of it’s beads, but I kinda prefer it that way and it takes this outfit from being plain Jane to a little more textured and interesting.

I’ve also decided to rekindle my love for Topshop’s Fire Cracker lippy – it’s ridiculously bright but I quite like the contrast between my red hair and the bold orange tones from the lipstick.

What’s your outfit of choice through this odd transitional Autumn period?


Wednesday, 25 September 2013

London Fashion Week Fearne Cotton's S/S14 Launch with Very.co.uk

Dress: MeeMee.com Boots: TK Maxx Hat: Topshop
A few weeks before London Fashion Week was due to kick off an exciting email popped in to my inbox from the lovelies at Very.co.uk, inviting me to the launch of Fearne Cotton’s S/S14 collection. I was over the moon and of course said yes right away!

Fearne is somewhat of an idol in my eyes...everything about her is so effortlessly fabulous and I completely admire how much she has accomplished over the years. When I think of her style I always think casually glamorous - so I tried to encapsulate that in my dress code for the evening. I picked this t-shirt dress from MeeMee.com as I wanted the outfit to be quite simple, but also have a little jazzy, jazzy. You know how much I love black and white and the scallop bottom detailing really makes it for me. When Gizzi Erskine strolled up to me in the reception room and asked where my dress was from I pretty much died on the spot. MeeMee - you are fabulous! 

Needless to say, I was bloody nervous being surrounded with a room full of rather important people however, the event was so well put together and the venue was beautiful, but being hosted in the Ballroom at Claridge’s you wouldn’t really expect anything less.
We were greeted with cocktails and champagne and whilst awkwardly prancing around the likes of Tinchy Stryder, Dionne Bromfield and Tanya Burr I made my way through to the catwalk area ready for the show to begin.

Fearne’s collections are always fun and inspiring and next year’s will be no exception. With bold colours and popping prints here are some of my favourites from the catwalk.
Fearne looked stunning, Chloe Howl’s set was amazing (check out her music if you haven’t already, she’s fabulous) and once I’d managed to get over my nerves I thoroughly enjoyed the evening and felt so privileged to be invited. Thank you so much to Very for giving me the opportunity to view the collection and for organising such a wonderful event!

What do you think of the collection? Is there anything that catches your eye? I for one can't wait for 2014 to role around to get my hands on a few pieces :)

If you want to have a look behind the scenes at the buildup before the show and sneak peaks at the catwalk, you can watch Very's video  (you might even spot my little face behind Stooshe & Lydia Bright!) 



Sunday, 22 September 2013

Most Worn Summer Things 2013 | Video


I already filmed the 'I heart summer tag' but you know me well enough now to establish that I can't just pick one thing I've been loving throughout summer - I'm a greedy guts. So I thought filming the 'most worn summer things' would be a nice little addition.

As always, links are below in-case you don't like the sound of my voice ;)

This afternoon I'm off to watch Madness with Daniel and my family - I am TOO excited. I was brought up with Madness always playing in the house so I'm really looking forward it and the sun has his hat on too, yippee!!

Happy Sunday my lovelies - hope you all have a great day.

Much love, xxx
Most Worn... 
Nail Polish: Barry M Gelly Nail Varnish in Blueberry & in Lilac -http://rstyle.me/~Oimf
Hair Product: Batiste Dry Shampoo - http://rstyle.me/n/bwnwjsh6w
Bag: Vintage faux crocodile print bag from COW Vintage -http://wearecow.com/
Shoes: Emu Australia Sandals - http://tinyurl.com/pmf8om4
Clothing: Mina UK Clothing Dress - http://tinyurl.com/q6ul45s
Accessory: Topshop Fedora - http://rstyle.me/n/bwnw2sh6w
Temporary Secretary Daisy Earrings - http://tinyurl.com/36ngndg
Blusher: NARS Desire - http://rstyle.me/n/buyjvsh6w
Lip Product: Revlon lip butter in Tutti Fruitti -http://tinyurl.com/c8jk56w
Mascara: Estee Lauder - http://tinyurl.com/nq2hsuq
Eye Shadow: Maybelline 24 hour colour tattoo -- rose gold -http://tinyurl.com/p2ds7tg
Perfume: Agent Provocateur - http://tinyurl.com/jvl22jq
Foundation: Illamasqua Skin Base - http://rstyle.me/n/bwnycsh6w


WHAT I'M WEARING:
Fedora -- Topshop - http://rstyle.me/n/bwnw2sh6w
Blouse - Scarlett Fashion - http://tinyurl.com/q9zwrmz


Tuesday, 17 September 2013

Pretending I'm back on holiday by sharing this pic with you!! :(
Okay so I’m not usually one to shout about competitions on my blog, but when I found out about this one I just HAD to let you lovely lot know about it. I’m desperate to enter myself, but with no holiday left for the rest of the year at work I’ve got to bite the bullet and give you guys a shot instead ;) (I jest), but seriously, I’m gutted!

Basically, Jet2holidays are offering the chance for one blogger (and a friend, both 18 or over) to win a week’s holiday, half-board at a 5 star hotel in Gran Canaria this November. I know, right?

All you need to do to be in with a chance of winning is explain in 200 words why you’d be the most amazing blogger for the job! In return, all that Jet2holidays ask is that you write a few posts for your blog and send a tweet or two on your holiday and experience in Gran Canaria – share the love so to speak :)

You can find the full details here along with the T&C’s, but if you’re wanting to enter make sure you get your entry submitted by midnight on 15th October, along with all your bloggy and social media handles.


Please do let me know in the comments section if you’re going to or have applied. I’d really love to know who wins it and find out all about your stay if you do :) happy applying guys, so jealous of you!
*brought to you in association with Jet2holidays


Monday, 16 September 2013

August Lookbook | Video

Hello my loves, hope all is well?

I thought I would try my hand at a 'lookbook' video - it's not my usual bag when it comes to YouTube, so I'd really love your feedback and (constructive) criticism on what you thought and whether you'd like this to be more of a regular occurrence on my channel? 
I've had an absolute nightmare with Windows Movie Maker lately, I tried 17 attempts at saving this bad boy without success so thought it might be best to bite the bullet and invest in something jazzier. I went for Corel VideoStudio and was surprised at how much more technical it was (it took me hours to put this video together haha), but it's certainly got the potential for me to gradually improve the standard of my editing, which is exciting. 

I think I'll make these a more regular thing on my YouTube going forward and I can't wait to save a few pennies to go shopping for an Autumn/Winter lookbook! I've always wanted to visit the london shopping centre - it looks amazing with designer and high street labels giving up to 70% off items..who's coming with me?!

Here are the links to what I wore in the 5 different looks, sorry some of the bits aren't available online anymore, but I've tried to link what I can!


WHAT I'M WEARING: 

Look 1

Mom Jeans: Ark Clothing - http://tinyurl.com/obcsz8j
Crop Top: Ark Clothing - http://tinyurl.com/p87sy8b
Shoes: Topshop (similar here - http://rstyle.me/n/bt9n5sh6w)

Look 2
Dungarees: American Apparel - http://tinyurl.com/mxoyaxf
Brogues: ASOS - http://rstyle.me/~H9Gi
Bag: Scarlett Fashion - http://tinyurl.com/pouy54v
Hat: Topshop

Look 3
Jumper: Factorie - http://tinyurl.com/odgj2a4
Skirt: ASOS - http://rstyle.me/~Javc
Belt: ASOS
Bag: DSUK from LYDC - http://tinyurl.com/q7ajqfh
Fedora: Topshop - http://rstyle.me/n/bbndash6w
Necklace: Kirsteen Stewart - http://tinyurl.com/q3crs8x 

Look 4
Maxi Dress: MeeMee.com - http://tinyurl.com/os8alja
Belt: Vintage
Fedora: Topshop - http://rstyle.me/n/bbndash6w

Look 5
Denim Jacket: Urban Outfitters - http://rstyle.me/n/beeeush6w
Playsuit: Vintage
Backpack: Urban Outfitters - http://tinyurl.com/o8xahvu


Wednesday, 11 September 2013

Flying Solo






Hat: Topshop. Blouse: c/o Scarlett Fashion. Shorts: Vintage Levis. Shoes: Topshop. Satchel: c/o LYDC.
Although it’s quite clear that Autumn has arrived, a coat isn’t necessary at all times. Especially not when you have such a pretty blouse to show off. I think navy is going to play a big part in my winter wardrobe, I’d sort of forgotten about blue and how much I love it! I’ve also wanted to get my hands on a satchel for about a million years, but haven’t really found one that I thought was very ‘me’ – until I spotted this beauty. I’m not a huge fan of solid colour satchels unless they’re really old, distressed leather, so this one sprung out at me straight away. I absolutely love the deep red and chocolate brown detailing, it helps to give the bag a bit of depth instead of looking too blocky.

Now the weather is cooling down I’m starting to get the holiday itch. This time last year I was getting myself excited for Australia and this year will certainly be a case of the winter blues. That’s why I was so excited when Explora Morocco let me know about their latest competition to win a week’s holiday learning to kitesurf in the Atlantic! I’m a bit of a wimp so have never tried anything like this before, but it sounds amazing – like surfing with added wind power. I’m definitely going to be entering to see if I can bag myself a winter trip away and even if you don’t get first prize there’s still a 6 hour course up for grabs as well as 10 runner up prizes. It’s a bit of a no brainer really – if you want to enter to you can do so here! Let me know if you do :)

And if you fancy it, you can shop my look here...
Brought to you in association with Exlpora Morrocco



Monday, 9 September 2013

Autumn Sunshine







Coat: Vintage (similar here). Bag: DSUK c/o LYDC.Ray-Bans: c/o Shade Station. Shoes: Topshop (similar here)
I’m not one to tell fibs (well, not regularly anyway) and I wasn’t about to sit around and pretend I wasn’t bloomin’ excited that summer might be over.  Don’t get me wrong I do love the sun and that everyone is so much jollier when it’s got it’s hat on, but I don’t really ‘enjoy’ summer clothing. I’m much more interested in my autumn/winter wardrobe and could not WAIT to whip out a coat!

Admittedly this is my mother’s coat - one she picked up at a vintage market for £7 a few years ago (you might say we’re quite the bargain hunters) but I’m blogging it all the same. It was rather nippy yesterday and I was staying at my parents so raided Mute’s wardrobe for something warm to wear before we popped out on a jolly. Needless to say she wasn’t impressed when I pranced out in this little beauty, but there was no chance I was taking it off. Oddly, the sun was still fierce so I was in need of some sunnies and having just received my first ever pair of Ray-Ban’s I whipped them out and off we went. It probably sounds ridiculous but it’s crazy how much difference it makes having higher-end sunglasses. They feel a zillion times sturdier than my £5 Primark pair I’ve been sporting this summer and actually manage to stay put on my little pea head without slipping halfway down my face every second and giving me a roaring headache like most do!

So, oversize coats and sunglasses combined are my way of stating that I rather like being chilly, but the sun must stay put. Agreed?

Looking for your winter coat? You can shop my look here...



Wednesday, 4 September 2013

Monthly Favourites - August 2013 | Video

Hi Loves,

Today is a monthly favourites day, in good old video form. You can expect an outburst of love for various facial cleansers and some random bits and bobs thrown in at the end. I’ve listed the products below the video, just in-case you don’t really fancy watching it :)

I’m feeling in a real grump today. I spent bloomin’ ages editing another video yesterday and my crappy laptop has decided that it won’t let me convert it to a video ready for uploading – so I’m going to have re-edit it all over again hmpf. If my laptop isn't careful it could find itself involved in a work injury claim and leaving me with no choice but to purchase a Mac...wouldn't that be a shame? BUT, on the bright side it is Wednesday today, which means we are halfway through the working week and it won’t be long until the weekend!

If you watch the video, do let me know if you’ve tried out any of the products and what you thought of them. Or alternatively if there’s something new you’ve discovered from it I’d love to know :)

PRODUCTS MENTIONED:

Etat Pur Cleansing Water

WHAT I'M WEARING:
Polka Dot Playsuit: Vintage


Sunday, 1 September 2013

The Skin Series Issue #2 | Face Masks and Exfoliators

Exfoliating and using face masks are one of the most important parts of your skincare routine. At one point I was under the illusion that just using one cleanser, mask and moisturiser would clear up all my skin worries - wrong. And I know that some people can fear using too many products on your skin will cause breakouts - wrong. If you have the right balance and the right ingredients you're on to a winner.

First up I'll be chatting about the exfoliating treatments I use and secondly my two favourite masks. Of course, what's right for me may not be right for you and this post is based on MY skin-type. Oily/Combination. 

Algenist Triple-Action Micropolish & Peel: RRP £58.50
Now, for an exfoliator I can see the price already putting you off. Who wants to spend nearly £60 on any skincare I hear you say - well I can tell you I never thought that would be me. But when you're suffering with your skin, it's amazing how important skincare becomes. For example you'd probably spend £60 on a bag or a new pair of shoes, yes? So why not on your FACE? One of the most important things! This micropolish peel is honestly one of the best investments I've ever made, with Alguronic and Glycolic acid working together to generate dermal cell renewal - removing the top layer of cells to reveal healthier, smoother skin underneath and the pumpkin, pomegranate and micropolish crystals removing larger and smaller dull cells to leave a radiant finish the ingredients are matches made in heaven. Using this once a month isn't going to do a thing - consitency is key. I use this at least twice a week. Applying a thin layer all over my face, rubbing in circular gentle motions for a few minutes, then leaving it to set for a further 5-10 minutes. When washed off my skin instantly feels smooth and super clean. I have really sensitive skin and haven't found it to cause any redness, drying or irritation. It's super gentle but 100% does what it says on the tin. My scarring is clearing itself up and it heals overnight redness so spots that are under the surface aren't so painful.

This product is ultimate luxury, although it's price tag is heavy there is no denying this exfoliant is up there with the best. It's unlike any exfoliator I've ever used before - it's bright orange, with a gloopy consistency and doesn't contain any beads. To be honest, it doesn't sound much of an exfoliator at all, but once you've used it there's no going back. With Azelaic, glycolic and lactic acid it's certainly strong and not for the faint hearted. As you know, my skin is is sensitive but if you are SUPER sensitive I would certainly suggest applying a dab on to the back of your neck or wrist before whacking a face full of it on. Surprisingly my skin has lapped this baby up and I haven't experienced any discomfort from using it. Like any other exfoliator, you apply a small amount to your entire face and rub for a few minutes. I then leave it on for about 10 minutes as it is more like a mask than a quick rub down. It stings and tingles but it's nothing unbearable. Once I've washed it off my skin feels smoother than a baby's bum and I can already notice the reduced size of my pores - it's also a key player in balancing out both oiliness and dry skin. I alternate between this and the Algenist so use it aprroximately 2 times a week. Even though it's pricey I'll definitely be re-purchasing it, it's not only helped improve my complexion but it's also helped prevent breakouts which is a winner in my book.

Liz Earle Gentle Face Exfoliator RRP: £14 

Liz Earle is one of my favourites, I found when using all of her products and nothing else my skin wasn't at all happy, but sharing the love with other brands and throwing in her heavenly animal friendly products once or twice a week makes a huge difference to my regularly un-happy skin. 
If you're looking for an affordable exfoliator that shows almost immediate effects then STOP, you've found it. 
This product is so gentle but effective - aimed at congested, flaky skin it contains jojoba beads to gently buff away dead skin cells and cocoa butter and sweet almond oil to keep the skin hydrated. As it's so gentle I use this daily when my skin needs it, rather than on a weekly basis. For example, if I'm feeling run down or it's that time of the month, I'll use this morning and night for a few days and any dry patches or flaky skin are banished. I've re-purchased this 4 times...so that's saying something, right?

Liz Earle Deep Cleansing Mask RRP: £14.50 
First up on the masks is another Liz Earle product - the Deep Cleansing Mask. With ingredients such as Manuka honey, rose scented geranium, green clay and propolis you can imagine how heavenly this smells. Whilst the scent is quite strong, it's not overpowering and as with the majority of Liz's range they feel and smell almost medicinal - something I find to be beautiful in skincare, it makes you feel that it's really giving your skin what it needs. I've been using this mask for a few years now and know I'll be using it for years to come. It's a very thick but almost runny consistency (a little messy, some might say) but boy does it work. It's meant to regulate oiliness in the skin (winner) and when used once a week certainly does that, along with helping to reduce redness, clear up patchiness and leave your skin feeling super smooth for it's hugely reasonable price tag, it's a bit of a no brainer.  

REN Invisible Pores Detox Mask RRP: £18
It's a little pricier than the Liz Earle mask, but I still think it's a mask that's affordable and definitely worth the £18. It's a thick clay that's formed to draw out any impurities in the skin whilst reducing the size of pores and blackheads. I bloody love this mask, not only is the packaging a beauty lovers dream (pump applicator and kept contained in a little bag to see when you're running low) it also contains lavender oil which is something I always look for in products as it's so soothing for spot prone skin. I use face masks twice a week, so when I've used my Liz Earle on a Sunday night I'll turn to my REN mask on a Wednesday. It dries in the most peculiar way, showing off all your blackheads, pores and patches but you can really see a difference in your overall appearance once you've added this to your routine. Of course, you're not going to wave goodbye to your blackheads overnight using this, but it will definitely help you on your way.

I hope you guys found this helpful, again I want to reiterate that using these products *together* helps keep my skin healthy and regulated, none of them are miracle workers on their own and if I'm honest I don't think that product even exists...do a bit of research in to what your skin needs and what will help it recover from whatever downfalls you feel it may have. There's a routine for everyone and sticking to it is the key element :)

Next up on the list will be serums and oils! Keep your eyes peeled...

Much love, xxx


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