Wednesday 2 December 2015

December's Most Wanted

Fleur de Figuier ♦ Tray Lipstick Photo frames FreakChocolates


So it's finally December! I say finally - I feel as though this year has just flown by! In fact, I really don't know where the last two years have gone. I think everyone else in their twenties feels the same. It's all downhill from here, guys!

In an effort to cheer us all up, I've compiled a Christmas wishlist. Just so you know, I'm not spoilt enough to expect all these things - to be honest, I've struggled to think of things I'd actually like this year, my favourite present last year was a new lamp! That's a sign you're growing up if ever I heard one ...


Fleur De Figuier eau de parfum by Roger & Gallet

I discovered this unusual scent in the form of a sample I received with my Vichy Dermablend foundation a few months back. I tend to go for sweet younger scents so I was surprised by how much I liked this muskier perfume. As the name suggests, fig is the top note. The packaging kind of reminds me of a room spray but at the same time, I quite like it. It's cute and more practical than a glass bottle.

H&M Home tray

Although my dressing table at home is actually an IKEA desk, I'm attempting to dress it up as though it were a Parisian vintage vanity station. An essential part of this transformation is locating the perfect tray to organise my lotions and potions. I really like this metal mirror style, however I may scour the charity shops instead for something a bit more unique.

Lime Crime Lipstick in Chinchilla

I've never owned a product by Lime Crime, but I've long admired their beautiful unicorn lipsticks and this particular colour is one I've been coveting for the longest time. Chinchilla is a beautiful lilac grey and I feel it's a great place to start if you want to try more bold lip shades. This would be a perfect day colour for me.

Oliver Bonas photo frames

I have recently fallen in love with Oliver Bonas' home range collections, particularly these gorgeous frames. I'd make like Louise from Sprinkle of Glitter and make beautiful collages rather than just adding photographs to them.

Illamasqua Freak Perfume

Whilst working at Victoria's Secret, a friend introduced me to Freak by Illamasqua. Just like Fleur de Figuier, it's a more sophisticated scent than I'm used too, but I love it! Maybe I'm growing up, but I'm really into muskier darker perfumes and I just adore the packaging on this - I can't decide between the classic or Freak Scarab, they are both so lovely! I've not actually asked for this for Christmas as I think I might treat myself as New Year present, but it would make a fantastic gift for someone special. The Scarab variation of this scent is unisex, so it might make an interesting present for a guy with edgier taste.

Nectar & Stone Chocolates

I truly love looking at Nectar and Stone's beautiful creations. With aspirations to be a stylist, I'd love to use their artisan chocolates or ice lollies in a photoshoot. they look absolutely delicious and I would love to receive a box of these gorgeous choccies. Do check out their website and Instagram for more lovely images. You will not be disappointed.

So I have a question for you all - what was your favourite present of all time as a child? I think mine was my Winter Wonderland Bratz doll, I remember I was so excited to have her!


Wednesday 8 July 2015

Jacket, Joggers & Polaroids





Hi guys! I've had three glorious days off work this week so I decided to spend them in the sunshine. Here I am at Beacon Park in Lichfield, wearing the most comfortable joggers ever that you may have seen featured in my last OOTD. They are like pajamas, but stylish. 

You may have noticed my snazzy pink Instax Mini 8 case - I recently picked this one up from Amazon for a mere £9.99! It's the perfect way to protect my pretty little camera. What have you guys been up to during the rare days of sunshine we've been having?

Hope you're enjoying the lovely weather


Jacket - H&M ♦ Top - Republic ♦ Joggers - H&M ♦ Mules - ASOS ♦ Glasses - Replay ♦ Headband - Claires ♦ Camera case - Amazon

Wednesday 10 June 2015

Lazy Look





This is my attempt at staying comfy yet stylish. I threw on a pair of slouchy joggers and this no-fuss jumper with my latest slingback kitten heels, this time in black. I think the shoes pulled the outfit together and made it look more off-duty and less 'I'm-wearing-my-PJs'. 

I went out for dinner with my boyfriend and brother today so I wanted to look presentable with little effort. That's why this shoes are such a great staple - paired with literally anything, they take an outfit from okay to amazing.

What do you think?


Jumper - New Look ♦ Joggers - H&M ♦ Shoes - Peacocks ♦ Glasses - Replay ♦ Hair bow - New Look ♦ Necklace - River Island ♦ 
Bracelets - old ♦ Bag - New Look

Friday 5 June 2015

Pastel Kitten Heels & Smart Trousers






Sorry about the brightness of these photos - I fiddled with the settings on my camera but couldn't get the exposure quite right. I edited them a little so you can see the colours better. I absolutely love these shoes, so much so I purchased them in black too, so I could style them with more outfits. The scrummy colour is perfect for the Summer - I just can't stop looking at them! 

This is what I wore for a meal with my boyfriend and his friends. We were going to a nice restaurant in Brindley Place so i wanted to look casual yet polished. These trousers from H&M are a total staple for me - they just look so smart and slick.

What are your style staples this season?

Tee - H&M ♦ Trousers - H&M ♦ Shoes - Peacocks ♦ Bracelet - Pandora ♦ Watch - Jeremy Scott for Swatch ♦ Necklace - my nanny's

Sunday 10 May 2015

My 22nd Birthday





So the ninth of May was my twenty second birthday - eek! The time has gone so incredibly fast it's insane. I decided to have pretty low-key celebrations this year and went out for a meal and drinks with a few friends. I've been rocking the middle part for a week or so on and off - it's an easy way to update your look and disguise the fact that your fringe has all but completely grown out. I really need a haircut. Well, it is my birthday, maybe I ought to treat myself.

I adore this dress - it's so pretty and feminine but it could easily be toughened up with boots and a leather jacket. However, I chose to keep my look somewhat demure with a smart black blazer and my summer staple silver flats. 

What do you think of my birthday outfit? 


Blazer - Dorothy Perkins ♦ Dress - Topshop ♦ Shoes - ASOS ♦ Rose & heart ring (right) - Pandora ♦ Gold & Emerald ring (left) - a gift ♦ Necklace - my Nanny's

Wednesday 29 April 2015

CRINGE






Recently, I've been dressing rather smartly so this fun little outfit was a nice change. As you can see, I've accessorised my new top with pet hair. With a house full of fur babies, it's pretty much impossible to keep unwanted fluff off your person. However, I hope it isn't too distracting as I really love this new crop from The Ragged Priest I spied in the ASOS sale - I think it suits me to a tee (pardon the pun). I'm quite an awkward person by nature and often find myself cringing.

I could not resist these silver mules either - I just knew they'd go with so many things and add a up-to-date chic look to any outfit - and they do! I will admit that having worn them for the first time today and walked a little dog that decided to pull me down the straight after the leaves, they do cut into your feet a tad. I'm hoping that as they are worn more they will begin to loosen up, but I thought I'd offer a warning just in case any of you thought about picking a pair up for yourself.

Hope you have a great week!


Crop - The Ragged Priest ♦ Jeans - Topshop ♦ Mules - ASOS ♦  Bracelets - both gifts ♦ Thumb ring - Claires ♦ Rose and heart ring - Pandora ♦ Gold & emerald ring - a gift


Friday 17 April 2015

Current Beauty Favourites



Vichy Dermablend
I have been using this on and off (but mostly on) for about a year, and I always seem to go back to it. At £16, the price is right, and even though my skin has improved dramatically from when I first purchased, I love the coverage. One qualm I have with this foundation is the lack of choice when it comes to colours - the palest shade Opal can sometimes look a little orange for me if I use too much and I don't think the darkest shade would be useful for black skin. For now, this is my favourite foundation as it is almost perfect.

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge
I bought this on a whim with my built up Boots advantage points and I am so pleased I did. My foundation has never looked so flawless and I am convinced that a sponge is the best way to apply makeup, I'm just mad I'm only now realising! However, I've only had it for about three weeks and it has a significant amount of tears in it from washing, so I'm curious to see how long it will last. 

Rimmel Lash Accelerator Mascara
My favourite mascara to date, I'd recommend this to anyone who wants a lengthening effect. Until I can afford to try out the much coveted Benefit They're Real mascara, I'll be buying this product for the foreseeable future.

Rimmel Moisture Renew Nude Delight 700
In my opinion, this is the perfect nude lipstick on a budget. The colour is subtle and long-lasting and feels moisturising on the lips. At £6.49, it's pretty cheap and at Boots, they currently are offering Rimmel products at 3 for 2.

Baby Oil
I swapped my old moisturiser for this about a year ago after my sister's recommendation. I have to say, my skin is softer than it has been for years. I have senstive skin on my chest and this is gentle enough not to irritate it. Between two and three pounds, you can't go wrong. This bottle has lasted since September.

Do you use any of these products?

Saturday 28 March 2015

Black crop & baggy trousers




Top - New Look ♦ Trousers - New Look (old) ♦ Boots - Matalan ♦ Necklace - Charity shop 

Anyone notice my Dad in the background? I've recently rediscovered these trousers from the depths of my wardrobe and although ironing them is a nightmare, I'm bloody loving them. I've teamed them with these chunky black boots - I love putting discordant items together and making them work, it's like a fashion challenge! Anyway, when I wear these trousers I feel so chic and I think they are the perfect for both work and play. Speaking of play, this is the outfit I wore to see Morrissey, who was amazing. I had a brilliant time, although I had a bit of a cry during Meat is Murder. I am an old softie. 

What I thought was so cool about the show was that Morrissey requested that the venue only served vegetarian food - yay! I'm still buzzing from the show, although I must say I was impressed by the supporting artist  Buffy Sainte-Marie, at the age of 74, she was a very strong performer.

Have you been to any concerts or shows recently? 

Friday 27 March 2015

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge



I've recently been using disposable make-up sponges to apply my make-up and I decided I would like to try something a bit more durable. I am aware that I am very late on the Beauty Blender band wagon but for a long time, I swore by brushes alone for my make-up. I have had bad experiences with Real Techniques - I purchased their stippling brush and it lasted less than a year before it started shedding. However, the price was right on this one (thank goodness for Boots points!) so I thought I'd give it a go.

The sponge is very soft to touch when dry and when damp, it expands. I love the squidgy texture. I either apply foundation straight to my face in dots on my chin, cheeks and forehead or directly onto the sponge and begin patting with the sponge, using the flat cone shape around the pointed end. I've seen tutorials using the flat side for application but I personally prefer the rounded shape as I can pat and roll easily. It feels so gentle; sometimes I find brushes can be scratchy or too firm for my sensitive skin but this is so light on the face. If you're not used to using a sponge, the technique can take a bit of getting used to - I mostly used a pad and roll motion. It definitely gives you a good full coverage with a natural finish, I find with a brush I'm often left with streaks and the sponge eliminates this issue. I wash this every time I use it with water and a little antibacterial hand wash or shampoo. If I'm really struggling to get the make-up out, I use a little argan oil - I've heard you can use olive oil too. These oils are great for your skin - bonus! 

I'm still getting used to this sponge - I've found it hasn't worked so well with my Benefit foundation (Hello Flawless) but that may be an error in my technique. However, it works beautifully with Vichy Dermablend - probably the most smooth application I've ever had. Again, I'm still finding my feet with Benefit so don't take my word for that. Overall, I'd say this is much nicer to use than a brush and gives a flawless finish, I recommend! However, I've been using it for a few weeks now and have noticed a considerable amount of tears from washing so I'm not sure how long it will last. 

Rating

Sunday 8 March 2015

March's Most Wanted


Wall Decor ♦ Heels ♦ Book ♦ Box Set ♦ Jumper ♦ Cat Necklace 


It's that time of the month again - no, not that one! We're talking about March's Most Wanted items, and I've got some great picks this time that hopefully you'll love as much as I do. Who knows, maybe your mom shares my taste and you'll find the perfect Mother's Day gift.

Although I'm still living at home with my parents, I'm very into home-ware and am constantly fantasizing about how I'll decorate my flat when I finally get the funds together. I absolutely love these unique wall decorations from Gems of the Soil. It's perfect for an apartment as it gives you a taste of the outdoors without the need for a garden.

I don't know about you, but when I check out ASOS I also head straight to the sale section. Luckily, ASOS never disappoints and I found this beauty. These delicate yet quickly heels are perfect for jazzing up a daytime look. 

I have seen the film Persepolis and really enjoyed it, so it seems a crime that I haven't actually read the book. I found this online at Urban Outfitters, but I would probably actually just purchase it on my Kindle. Plus, Kindle books are always a little cheaper, so that's a bonus!

Okay, this is a bit of a random one, but hey, it's my most wanted, so instead of picking the latest cool tv series I may as well be honest. I've recently been watching Ugly Betty on Netflix, but to my horror, the realisation that it only carries up to series two quickly dawned upon me. At this stage, my bank account is definitely not healthy enough to splurge nearly £25 on a eight year old programme box set, but maybe I'll cave as I really want to see what happens next! (Even though I've already seen it...) 

This boxy sweater is totally my style and the shiny panel really adds something to it. It would go with so many things, and since the weather is just beginning to turn, it would be perfect for these in between winter and spring days. 

How cute is this little kitty necklace by Eclectic Eccentricity - it looks just like my Casper cat. You can choose from several different breeds of dog too - take a look and see if they have one that resembles your pooch! They are hand-painted and ceramic so they aren't they most hardy pieces of jewellery but I think they are adorable.


What do you think of my March wishlist? 

Friday 6 March 2015

Smart trousers & cropped shirt


Shirt - Missguided ♦ Trousers - Dorothy Perkins ♦ Shoes - Peacocks ♦ Necklace - Charity shop ♦ 
Thumb ring - Claires ♦ Rose ring - Pandora ♦ Gold ring - a gift 

It's not often I go somewhere posh enough to dress up and act hopefully sophisticated, but Wednesday night was the evening of my friend's art exhibition. It was a lovely night; although admittedly I was quite late and ended up getting lost on the way to the venue. Seriously, am I the only one who struggles with the map thing on the iPhone when asking for walking directions? I always seem to end up off the blue line and somewhere random. 

I'm sorry these photos aren't up to the usual standard - had a bit of an issue with the camera and resorted to using my phone. While we're on the subject, does anyone have any tips for taking blog photos on the iPhone? Although they are basically good quality photos, they don't quite meet my standards when it comes to blogging, am I doing something wrong?

Any tips would be greatly appreciated. 

Saturday 21 February 2015

February's Most Wanted

Bra ♦ Septum ring ♦ Scrunchie ♦ Boots ♦ Plimsolls ♦ iPhone case 


Hi guys, hope you're doing well! I've been back and forth to London for the last two weeks preparing for dressing at Catwalk Edit which kick-started LFW on Thursday. It was great fun, but we had to work fast! I discovered some amazing new brands and my model was just lovely. Anyway, I've finally slowed down enough to sit down and write up my February wish list, maybe you'll see something you like too.

At Catwalk Edit, I discovered the beautiful lingerie of Fred and Ginger. Bras are something I don't normally splash out on, but I just love this pretty pale pink one. I've lusted after faux septum rings for ages and I've finally found the perfect one - this delicate gold design. Unfortunately, this is actually for a pierced nose, but hopefully they will release a faux version, fingers crossed! I love these bow scrunchies; they look great with a high ponytail and wrapped around a messy bun. As you can never have enough pairs of shoes, I've sought out two totally different but equally as cool ones this month. First up, these hiker-style boots are perfect for everyday, effortless styling when you want to add a little tomboy edge to your outfit. Second, these plimsolls are kind of naughty, but I think they're awesome! I guess you'd just have to an choose the appropriate time to wear them. I recently joined the elite and got myself an iPhone, so I'm on the lookout for cute cases. As I have a 5C in green, I like to show off the colour so this clear one is perfect. 

Which is your favourite? 

Friday 13 February 2015

Philosophy Kiss Me Tonight



I have always suffered with dry lips and no matter what I do - exfoliate, slaver with lip balm and Vaseline - I'm often left with them still cracked and flaky. However when Philosophy told me I had won their Facebook competition and could choose any product I liked, I took it as an opportunity to perhaps solve my problem and picked their lip therapy balm, kiss me tonight.

As soon as I applied it last thing at night, it felt smooth and cooling. It smells sweetly minty; like Kendall Mint Cake. When I woke up the next day, my lips felt reassuringly soft and flake free. I decided to apply some more in the morning as it was a cold day and I knew that wouldn't help my lips. 

I've tried Nivea, Vaseline and Carmex but nothing has ever really worked up until now. For £16 a tub it's not exactly cheap but I think once I'm all out I will repurchase as it really does the trick. In fact it's so brilliant my boyfriend has even had a sneaky go of it!

Rating

Wednesday 21 January 2015

Antler Vanity Case & Leopard Boots





Hat - Vintage ♦ Glasses - Replay ♦ Jumper - Boohoo ♦ Leggings - New Look ♦ Boots - Matalan ♦ Case - Antler (vintage)

Here's the first outfit post of 2015, I hope you guys like it. I'm so obsessed with these boots - not only are they incredibly comfortable, at £9 in the sale they were a total steal! Despite their gaudiness, I adore them and think they make a plain look more daring and interesting. My boyfriend absolutely hated them when we saw them in Matalan, but hopefully this outfit will change  his mind.  What do you think? I'm also loving this hat, it was such a great find.

Jack's nan bought me this lovely vintage case for Christmas and I love it so much. It's a vanity case but I've been using it as a bag and have had so many compliments on it. I hope the broom here hasn't ruined the shot for you guys, I should really check the background before I take pics!

Tuesday 20 January 2015

January's Most Wanted

Deer screen - Argos ♦ Mint lipstick - Lime Crime ♦ Vintage fawn jumper - Candy Candy ♦ I Origins DVD - Amazon ♦ Collar bib - River Island ♦ Flower globe pendant - Resity
So Christmas is well and truly over, but that doesn't mean I have to stop wishing for stuff! This month, I'm lusting over these lovely items. Have a look and see if anything takes your fancy too...

 I have no idea where I would put this decorative screen in my bedroom, but hey, lets just say I'm saving for my bottom drawer? Regular visitors of this blog will know that I've really got into to weird and wonderful lip colours, and my latest obsession is this gorgeous mint. This cute fawn sweater is on sale at the moment, and it's taking everything in me to not click and buy it - there's a high chance I will. I Origins is out on DVD and Bluray and, after seeing it with my best friend in the cinema, I'm desperate to get my hands on a copy. It's such a brilliant movie. And check out this collar bib - what a great idea! I really need to get myself one of these, maybe I could make one myself? And lastly, I'm in love with this beautiful globe pendant I found on Etsy by Resity. Their delicate jewellery is definitley worth a look and is pretty reasonable. 

What do you wish for this January?

Friday 9 January 2015

LUSH Magic Wand Bubble Bar





I was very lucky this Christmas to receive two boxes stuffed full of Lush goodies. I've never tried anything from Lush before but have always longed to and I love that they are a completely cruelty free company and environmentally friendly - the plastic-like wrappers can be recycled or put in the compost!

Anyway, this pretty little thing is the Magic Wand Bubble Bar and was part of my Snow Fairy gift box. It has a sweet scent that reminds me of lollipops. After scrubbing the tub free of dog hairs, I was ready for a, ahem, relaxing bath! With this product, you simply crumble it into the water whilst you run the bath. A little goes a long way; I only needed a small amount to create fabulous bubbles and turn the water a gorgeous pink. Unfortunately, it hasn't come up as bright in these photographs, but I can assure you you'll be pleasantly surprised.

I also noticed that my skin felt very soft and moisturised. While I was in the bath I decided to shave my legs sans shaving cream and was able to achieve a smooth close shave without any irritation. I think this was down to the Magic Wand in the water - bonus!

Have you ever tried Lush's products? Oh, and Happy New Year!

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