Crop top & Culottes

Top - ASOS ♦ Culottes - Missguided ♦ Trainers - Ego ♦ Necklace - Claire's ♦ Gold ring - a gift ♦ Silver ring - Pandora

I feel as if we have been so lucky this year with the sun. No one can complain about the 'typical British Summer' this time around as the nation has been blessed with gorgeously scorching sun and I for one am loving it! My only issue with hot weather is this most of the fashion requires me to perform a task that I dread and hate with a passion - shaving (or shudder - waxing) my legs. This is precisely why I'm loving the comeback of culottes as those flowy uber cool trousers allow my third day pins to go unnoticed.

 On top of this incredibly useful perk, they transform an outfit into a put together, androgynous ensemble. These classic black ones can be worn quirky and casual with trainers like mine and dressed up for work or evening with heels. So far I have three pairs of those kooky trousers and I'm certain my collection will continue to grow. I hope these never go out of style but even if they do, I'm pretty sure I'll still be rocking them!

What's your favourite SS16 trend?

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Vintage Bomber Jacket & Light-up Trainers

I really love this look - I was going for a mix of polished and playful. I picked up this oversized bomber when visiting my sister and Leicester and instantly fell in love. It one of those wonderful items that transform any outfit into something just a bit more stylish.

These trainers are simply amazing - I need to wear them to a rave sometime! With their own charger, these LED trainers have a button to change both the colour and pattern of the lights. I often wear them turned off as classic white kicks and paired with these smart blush trousers, it gives the ensemble a cute sport luxe feel. 

Would you wear light-up trainers?

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Jacket - The Vintage Scene ♦ Top - Forever 21 ♦ Trousers - ASOS ♦ Trainers - Ego ♦ Necklace - New Look ♦ Gold ring - a gift ♦ Silver ring - Pandora

Roger & Gallet Fleur de Figuier

You may remember me mentioning this perfume in one of my past monthly favourites, and, much to my delight, for my 23rd birthday my big brother bought it for me. I discovered this particular scent by accident when I ordered a Vichy product and received a sample. I instantly fell in love with the unique, sweet and slightly spicy scent - I used to prefer sweet and girly scents like Anna Sui Dolly Girl and Marc Jacobs Oh Lola, but as I've grown up, these perfumes to be a little too ordinary and I find they don't really match my personality or style. If you're a fan of fragrances that are very different than the conventional female favourites, read on!

"Designed by the creator Francis Kurkdjian, Fleur de Figuier Eau Fraiche reveals all the fresh flesh tones of the delightful fruit. Initially you are enveloped by the fig leaves crisp aroma and fresh mandarin flowers, then the milk and notes of wood, create a warm and creamy background, this envelops you like a second skin, vibrant and sensual."

Roger and Gallet is a French brand that has been making perfumes for two centuries, the history is pretty interesting so if you want to know more about the brand, check it out here. The fragrance definitely has a strong scent of fig which I think is really unusual choice for a perfume, it totally works. The first sniff is rather musky and deep but it quickly transforms into a sweet and rather fruity aroma. It really is an intoxicating scent and is unmistakably unique - it is definitely going to be my signature scent! I adore it so much that I'm really intrigued to try some of their other perfumes; I quite like the sound of Bois d'Orange! You can even take a quiz on the website to see what your 'diagnosis' is and find the perfect product and scent for you.

Have you ever tried Roger and Gallet products? What is your favourite perfume?

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Revolution Death By Chocolate Palette

I can never have too many eye shadows and so was delighted when I received this gorgeous palette for Christmas. I actually purchased the salted caramel version for a friend of mine, so was pleasantly surprised when I unwrapped this gift. The Death By Chocolate palette by Makeup Revolution is a selection of neutral shades inspired by everyone's favourite candy.

 

 Some people have compared it to the TooFaced Chocolate Bar palette and I get that as the colour scheme are definitely similar but personally, I think the main similarity is simply the concept. Unpopular opinion, but although TooFaced is a high-end brand, I actually prefer the packaging of this one! A mixture of shimmery and matt shadows, it's basically a neutral palette with a few brighter tones mixes in. The shadows are very pigmented and buildable, it's a perfect everyday palette.

 

It looks quirky and cute displayed on your dressing table and after trying this one, I'm certainly looking to collect some more. Next I'm thinking I may grab the white choccy palette with the slightly odd name Naked Chocolate or maybe even the Salted Caramel one for myself!

 

Have you tried any of the chocolate collection? And what's your favourite kind of chocolate? I like dark and white!

Off Duty

Jumper - Selfridges ♦ Trousers - H&M ♦ Boots - Matalan ♦ Glasses - Replay ♦ Necklace - New Look
Earrings - Happy Trunk Apparel ♦ Rings - Pandora & a gift 

This weekend, I've been mostly chilling out - yesterday, I had out to Ashbourne with my family but apart from them I must confess I haven't moved much. Still, I want a look that would keep me looking stylish yet comfy. Cue the boyfriend's jumper. This wooly sweater is so comfy and perfect for keeping me warm and since barely wears it. I've decided to add it to my repertoire. 

Leopard print isn't for everyone, but I personally think with a low key toned down outfit, it can look very chic. These boots are deceivingly comfy and I can stomp around in them all day. And of course, a weekend with nothing to do requires glasses over contact lenses - ain't nobody got time for that!

What are you doing this weekend?

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Happy Trunk Apparel Crystal Skull Earrings

I love accessories but often forget to add earrings to an outfit. However, I received these adorable earrings after a giveaway Happy Trunk Apparel held on Facebook. These simple yet edgy earrings will go with so many things I'm going to make the effort to remember. 

Check out their website for more cute and unique pieces

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December's Most Wanted

Fleur de Figuier ♦ Tray ♦ Lipstick ♦ Photo frames ♦ Freak ♦ Chocolates

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!

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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

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

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?

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

Bracelets - old ♦ Bag - New Look

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?

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

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? 

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

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!

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

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?

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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? 

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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
★★★☆☆

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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? 

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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. 

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