Wonderful You | Fashion and Style Blog: March 2014

Monday, 31 March 2014

What I Wore | Country Cream

Hat: Ark Clothing. Coat: Miss Patina*. Blouse: Poppy Lux*. Leggings: Zara. Belt: Vintage. Boots: Joules*.

One of my favourite shops in the world ever is Miss Patina – a UK based vintage inspired clothing brand. The amount of hours I’ve spent lusting after their pieces is ridiculous, and you’ve probably already spotted them in the likes of Topshop.

It’s a well known fact that I have a serious obsession with coats, so naturally this houndstooth camel number needed to be in my wardrobe. Fully lined, with a unique blend of cotton and wool and a moose brooch to match it’s literally perfection. It’s incredible quality and smartens up an outfit like no tomorrow. I’m absolutely in love.

I’ve also tried to inject lighter shades in to my wardrobe recently. Don’t worry – black and grey are still pretty much my favourites. But teamed with my Zara leggings, my Poppy Lux blouse helps to finish off this preppy look and the beaded collar paired with a vintage belt and maroon hat break up the cream shades so that I don’t look too much like a digestive biscuit.

Thursday, 27 March 2014

What I Wore | Grecian Sparkles

There comes a time in a girls life where she wants to feel like a princess - and really the only way to fulfill that need is with a dress. When you make that discovery and it makes you giggle like a little school girl buying her first prom dress, it doesn't matter if you haven't quite got the right occasion to wear it. One day you will and you'll be so glad you got it, because well, it's just gorgeous.

That's this dress.

Dress: Chi Chi*. Boots: TK Maxx

I usually take my photo's down the end of my street, but I thought this dress deserved a slightly different, contrasting location.

The structure is so unbelievably beautiful and the delicate beading to the mesh top helps set it apart from your typical evening dress. I’m not going to lie, I do feel a little bit like a Grecian ~~goddess~~ wannabe. The fabric is pretty heavy, but in a good way and who doesn't love a cheeky bit of leg with a maxi length dress?

I'll be saving this up for a pretty darn special occasion, you know, when Ryan Gosling takes me to his next premiere...I'm still waiting on the invite.

Tuesday, 25 March 2014

Mother's Day Inspiration | The Flowers

Regardless of what sort of mummy you have, flowers are always a safe bet when it comes to Mother’s Day. There’s nothing quite like having a beautiful bouquet delivered to someone you love and seeing how happy it makes them. Debenhams have always been my go to when it comes to special occasion flowers, they’re fantastic quality, beautifully presented and delivery is super speedy.

Mums favourite flowers are Lilie’s and when browsing the site I instantly fell in love with this Raspberry Ripple Bouquet*. Made up of oriental lilies, elegant lilac memory lane roses with candy pink aqua roses and delicate greenbell it’s beautifully classic but contemporary at the same time. At £25.99 it’s not too pricey either and if ordered before 4pm you can have them arrive on a next day delivery :) marvellous!

Debenhams have been super lovely this Mother’s Day too and have offered you sexy lot a very sweet 15% off the Mother’s Day range. Simply enter the following code at checkout: MDBLOG15 before 28^th March to receive your discount.

I’ve got Mum a few other little bits to give her on Sunday, but these certainly brightened her day and it's the perfect way to show her you care. Thank you Debenhams!

Monday, 24 March 2014

Meet Moo's Marvellous Advertisers | April 2014

My April Advertisers post is a little early this month, simply because I’m just too excited to wait any longer! Filled to the brim with new blogs, vintage inspired jewellery and lingerie stores and a wonderful new online magazine you’re really in for a treat tonight....

I cannot quite explain the joy that Bess' blog brings me. If you are a foody and haven't read this part of the internet, then where the hell have you been? This is by far, my absolute favourite go-to for cooking inspiration - from green eggs and ham to honey wheat loaf and ice cream cakes it's certainly got something for everyone's appetite. Not only that, Bess has recently delved in to the realms of outfit posts, which excites me hugely. Are you still reading this? If so, why? You should be on her blog already.

Your one stop shop for perfectly cute, vintage inspired jewellery - from lockets to happy whale earrings and crystal rings, it’s bound to brighten your Monday evening. Since establishing in 2008 Ji Ji Kiki has grown to also cater for your home ware, stationery and clothing needs. I’m pretty certain there is something for everyone on this lovely store and at an affordable price too!

A lingerie store that fulfils every girls knicker needs - whether you are in to your delicate lace or a beautiful bustier, they’ve really thought of every ladies taste. I love the vintage feel to a lot of the collection and as a fellow lingerie lover I can’t wait to get my hands on a few of their lovely sets!

I had the pleasure of keeping Sara on my blog for another month, so you may have already discovered her wonderfulness :) if not...you can expect heaps of detailed product reviews, behind the scenes photo shoots and natural spring time makeup looks. Sara posts super regularly, so you're in for a treat, grab a cuppa and get ready to fall in love.

A brand spanking new online magazine, headed up by lots of wonderful bloggers. Contributing their loves for the industry, including beauty tips and tricks, style posts and lifestyle inspiration - they make sure everything is covered with fresh, relatable content. A lot of work goes in to building something so informative and it’s up to us fellow bloggers to help them spread the word! You heard it here first, Beauté Vie Mode is the one to watch!

If you'd like to find out more about advertising your blog or small shop with Wonderful You, all the details are !

Sunday, 23 March 2014

What I Wore | Emerald Green

Green Velvet Dress: Little Deer*. Knee High Boots: Daniel Footwear*. Black Bag: Becksondergaard* Coat: Olive. Glasses: Tesco. Nail Polish: Burberry.

I've spent so much time lately living in my leggings that I've almost forgotten what it feels like to have a breeze between the knees! And what better way to break a habbit than this beautiful emerald green dress from Little Deer? It incorporates two of my fashion loves - a collar and velvet. I love how large the lace collar is and that the waist is elasticated, meaning even after a cheeky McDonald's it's still roomy - not to mention the stunning, rich colour...b-e-a-uuuutiful.
Knee high boots are a new thing for me. I've always had a bit of a fear of them...thinking my legs might be a little too tiny to carry them off - but I've literally been living in these since I got them and I absolutely love that they're a small heel, it means they're practical for heaps of occasions and are super comfy too.
A super soft leather handbag is also a must in my wardrobe, complete with compartments galore and a slouchy, casual design it fits perfectly with my beloved Olive coat (which is now in the sale - you're welcome).

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Friday, 21 March 2014

Clinique | Anti-Blemish Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel

It’s no secret to anyone who reads my blog that I’ve been struggling with my skin for a pretty long time. A number of factors can cause breakouts, whether it be bacteria, excess oil, stress or hormonal changes it makes it pretty tricky for us blemished girlies to control. My skin issues have been a huge confidence knock, they’ve contributed to my anxiety and have really changed the person that I once was – carefree, makeup-free and confident. It’s something that’s really difficult to manage physically and can be so emotionally draining. There have been times when I haven’t wanted to leave the house, cried because my face feels so sore and just felt like there was nothing I could do to help myself.

It’s not all bad news though ladies – when we’re faced with such issues we have to find it within ourselves to make the most of what we do have. There’s nothing like a bit of positive thinking to help us on the way, eh? And that’s where Clinique come in...

My was about Clinique’s Anti-Blemish Solution 3 step skincare routine and their spot treatment gel. Nearly 2 years later (phew!) and that lovely gel is still a firm favourite in my routine. In the time since I last raved about this beauty, Clinique have been working their magic to re-brand it to the Anti-Blemish Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel. This has always been my spot treatment saviour and recognising their success, Clinique have put heaps of effort in to improving it and boy is it brilliant.

It has a 4-in-1 Clearing Complex that works to treat current breakouts and prevent future ones. It contains the following ingredients that work together to exfoliate, control oil, un-clog pores and reduce redness: Salicylic Acid (anti-blemish, pores & exfoliation), Laminaria Saccharina (oil-control) and Sea Whip Extract (calming, redness reduction).

That’s all super lovely, but the most impressive part of this re-launch is the fact that the gel can now be used all over the face, as an all over treatment. Yep that’s right, it’s no longer just a direct spot treatment (although of course it can be used as that too). And after clinical trials it’s been confirmed that this product delivers effectiveness as good as a topical prescription...so for most of us it will mean that trips to the GP might not be as necessary anymore.

Of late my breakouts have been less, but as soon as I have one I apply a thin layer to my entire face, followed with my daily moisturiser or SPF and within a few hours any redness has been reduced, pain numbed and my pores are so teeny tiny – I can’t explain the joy this brings me! It leaves my skin feeling fresh, clean and smooth, which is quite the task with stubborn skin like mine.

I’ve tried pretty much every spot treatment on the market but none compare to this, it’s the only spot product that can withstand the test of time on my skin, no matter how many times I reach for it, my skin never seems to become immune. Along with being a holy grail product in my beauty regime, it's also given my confidence a real boost. There's nothing more refreshing than waking up in the morning knowing you have a weapon that will work wonders against your skin – and being able to use it now as an all over treatment makes it even more wonderful than it already was.

If you want to get your hands on this beauty the Anti Blemish Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel is available nationwide from 21st March 2014 at www.clinique.co.uk

**Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Clinique via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Clinique.

Tuesday, 18 March 2014

Change Your Story | Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions UK

On the train to London!

I am so excited to share today’s post with you, I almost can’t contain myself.

A couple of weeks ago I was lucky enough to spend a few days filming with the wonderful Clinique. They have a new campaign called which runs alongside the re-launch of their New Clinical Clearing Gel...I’ll be telling you all about that very soon, but first I wanted to share with you what Clinique and I have been up to!

The campaign focuses on the emotional experience of having blemishes, how it affects our confidence. My battle with my skin has been a tough one, but it’s incredible when you find a brand you can trust, who understand the problems blemishes can cause but that more importantly, have a solution. Clinique and I worked together to create a video that shows you too can change your story and that as a brand they can be a part of that journey.

Behind the scenes!

If you guys want to get involved, Clinique are also running a competition via Twitter. All you need to do to enter is include the hashtag # and share your story/experience around blemish prone skin or confidence for a chance to win 1 of 5 Anti-Blemish kits they’re giving away! T&C’s are .

Their foundation was the first I ever used, Their 3-step system was my first ever post blog and they were the first ever products that actually gave me confidence with my skin to start my blog and reach out to others who experience the same problems. Needless to say I am a huge fan and this campaign is something very close to my heart.

I really hope you enjoy the video, I can’t quite believe I’ve been a part of something so amazing and I feel incredibly lucky and grateful.

I didn’t think I’d be able to do it, but facing your fears is worth it when you get to do fantastic things like this and meet such talented people in the process.

Thank you to Clinique and Cherry Duck for being awesome – I had a blast!

Drumroll....

The Video!!

Monday, 17 March 2014

What I Wore | It's A Man's World

Coat: American Apparel (similar here). Leggings: Zara. Top: & Other Stories. Boots: Joules*. Bag: Bagwise*. Glasses: Topshop. Earrings: Chelsea Doll*. Bumble Bee Clips: Little Nell*.

Well how bloomin’ lovely to have the sun shining for once, eh? This weekend was super lovely – I spent it visiting Zoe and we had a jolly good time. Naturally, I took advantage of her skills and made her take some outfit snaps for me ;) (she loves it, honest!).

Even though the weather was so glorious yesterday, I wasn’t quite ready to put aside my new coat – we all know how much I love coats and this one is my new best friend. I’m quite partial to baggy fitting clothes and this number no doubt makes me look like a man, but hey, I’m okay with that.

I’ve also discovered the perfect handbag from Bagwise – it literally fits my entire life in it. With three sections, zips and pockets galore it’s any girls dream. I love the green shade and soft leather-like feel – I’m a faff free kinda gal and love simplicity in handbags, so this one ticks all the boxes.

You know I love my basics - leggings, tees and boots but sometimes, when dressing like a boy, one must add a touch of glam and girly-ness. I ruddy love these earrings from Chelsea Doll, they instantly lift this outfit and paired with my beautiful little bumble bee clips from Little Nell I feel like I want to wear my hair up all the time!

Thank you to Zoe for taking these shots and for working her magic on the editing...she’s one clever girly and don't hesitate to contact her to discover all the amazing services she offers <3

Enjoy the sun my loves, keep smiling!

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Friday, 14 March 2014

What I Wore | Supermarket Styling!

When I go shopping for clothes the last places I usually think to explore are supermarkets – but when Debt Free Direct got in touch about their Making Money Go Further campaign I was intrigued. You know I’m always keen on a bargain and the whole idea is to see how supermarket own brand clothes compare against the high street. Interesting, non?

I agreed to take on the challenge but automatically second guessed myself. What was I thinking? I’d never looked to a supermarket for fashion inspiration, surely I wasn’t going to be able to pull this off? But I sucked it up and made a decision on my supermarket of choice: ASDA.

My plan was to find an outfit that was completely true to my style so that it would be super easy to compare the pieces and their prices to my current high-street wardrobe. I also decided that I would make my purchase online, so that I would be picking the items based purely on their price and look rather than examining the quality before purchasing.

It took me all of 20 minutes to pick an entire outfit...A daisy print shirt, high waisted leggings, black grunge ankle boots and a blacksatchel style bag.

Not only was the site super easy to navigate, my order arrived in record time – but the very best bit? The entire outfit cost a smidgen over £70 (including delivery), which I can’t quite fathom. I mean, that’s an entire outfit right there that you just won’t get from high-street stores at that price.

So, what’s the quality like?

The Shirt: RRP £12 - Although it’s perhaps not as soft as some of my high-street shirts, it is pretty perfect with a lovely pattern and flattering fit.

The Leggings: RRP £12 - Are amazing. I love the zip detail and ribbed sides – you’d easily think they were another Zara purchase. They fit really snugly but have a nice amount of stretchiness to them so they don’t feel like they’re going to rip when I bend over ;)

The Boots: RRP £38 - Literally the comfiest pair of boots I have ever purchased, I always have a problem with shoes fitting me, but these are a dream. They are so soft, yet sturdy and look like something you could find in All Saints. For £38 I actually can’t believe how amazingly brilliant they are.

The Bag: Is £9...I know. Not only that, it’s like a Mary Poppins bag and manages to fit my entire life in it. The strap is thick, which means it can carry the weight of a beauty bloggers makeup bag and it’s got lots of little compartments for storing bits. To be honest I can’t tell the difference between this and my Zara satchel that is treble the price.

What do you think guys? I'm pretty darn impressed and it certainly gives my high-street pieces a run for their money!

*These products were sent to me courtesy of Debt Free Direct. However, all opinions in this post are 100% my own

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