30 June 2013

CHANEL COCO ROUGE SHINES


To tell the truth, i'm not really a lipstick wearer, a lipstick lover - yes, but a shameful forget to reapply wearer. But that ladies does not stop my love for beautifully sculpted lipstick in an array of dazzling shades, no sir-re. Introducing my collection of Chanel Coco Rogue Shines, the lightweight lipstick for the girl that can't.. really handle lipstick. 

Lightweight, super glossy and a slick of colour, the Rogue Coco Shines are truly magnificent. Adding a flush/pop/slick of colour to the lips, they are easy to wear both day and night. Adding a subtle polished finish to your look. If like me, you don't really think you suit strong lip shades but do not dare to bare in the nude lip territory - the Rogue Cocos' are you go-to must have. And who in heavens name wouldn't feel ultra glamourous applying a lipstick in such sleek, sophisticated packaging eh? Even the double C's make me go weak at the knees..



Chance & Flirt



Flirt & Evasion


 Chance                                                            



Coco Rouge Shine in Chance - Chanel (£24.00)

Named after my favourite Chanel perfume, Chance also happens to be my favourite out of the lipstick trio. A light and oh-so-bright baby pink, Chance is an instant pop of glossy pink. A modern, fresh take on the baby pink - it brightens your entire complexion and works wonders as 'girl next door' look. Worn with pinched pink blush and a wide-eyed flicked liner, it ties the look together. Appears much brighter than the photo depicts, without going tacky barbie on your ass.


 Evasion                                                               



Rogue Coco Shine in Evasion - Chanel (£24.00)

Everyones favourite shade in the range, this milky pink toned nude is your lips but better shade. With a hint of colour, it works well to give that English Rose look. A shade to wear with a peachy blush, it works with any eye shadow look and applies beautifully.


 Flirt                                                                  



Coco Rouge Shine in Flirt - Chanel (£24.00)

A more milky coral toned shade in the bullet, Flirt appears rather darker on me. Though the image above only slightly shows the true colour (bloody lighting) - see this other image. Needing to have more warmth and tan in my complexion before I wear this, it IS the perfect shade for summer. In fact I really need to dig this out. Unlike the other two, there is a subtle shimmer shot through that translates beautifully without appealing to full on. Hopefully I will try to re-shoot this in another look so you can see it in it's true form! 

Have you ever tried the Rouge Coco Shines? Whats your favourite shades?

28 June 2013

MUST-HAVE: ALPHABET BAGS

If there's one thing I'm never short of, it's cotton tote bags. Amassing quite a collection is slightly strange yet otherwise handy I guess. Either tottering along my lunch for work or my camera, there's not a day I don't have one tucked under my shoulder - only me? When a friend of mine pointed out my tote-addiction, telling me she could never find one that appealed to her (way too boring or floral 'ick'), I set on finding the perfect one - that is when I stumbled across Alphabet Bags.

Born out of love, infatuation with the alphabet and typography married couple Hayley and Lucas set up their shop straight out of their dinky spare room in East Dulwich creating cotton tote bags. Spouting out seriously cool, bold outlandish fun slogan totes, Alphabet Bags was born. Fast forward a few years and business is boomin' - and it's clear to see why...   


Sunshine is Delicious (£13.00) / Let's Get Lost (£13.00) / Make The Most Of It (£13.00) / Gold Heart (£15.00)

With adorable slogan totes, I've fallen head over heels for the accessories brand. It's heart warming to see a start-up company bloom and blossom, especially when their range is pretty fabulous. Perfect for a gift (or yourself!) there are many, many designs to choose from. Good quality material and study, they are reasonably priced and my friend's present was beautifully wrapped up - serious brownie points. 


Initial Bags (£13.00)

It all started with the alphabet initial tote, before the designs spiralled into the rather charming...


Oh I do like to be beside the Seaside: Natural / Navy (£13.00)



Enter artist Rob Ryan, whose love for famed cut-up artwork gives the alphabet tote a pretty, quirky finish - adore the dinky bird too!

You Look Lovely Today (£20.00) / Red Heart (£20.00)

Branching out to wash bags...



Coin Purses (£14.00)

...to moving along to change purses.



Hooray Pouch (£16.00) / Treasure Pouch (£14.00) / Gold Heart Pouch (£17.00)

Then on to my favourite pouches, perfect for slotting the essentials that get lost in your handbag (just me?). Or popping in your beach bag with your phone inside for safe keeping. So cute it hurts.

So here is my ode to Alphabet Bags - sometimes a brand deserves a rave. Especially when word of mouth can do wonders, and let's face it what a charming little company. Also a must-see are their phone cases and wedding range (no really!). My now first port of call for gift buying (forget you ever read this Sarah) I cannot wait to see what Alphabet Bags have up their sleeve's next...

Have you ever bought anything from Alphabet Bags? Or share a cotton tote fetish/addiction/craze like I? 

23 June 2013

BECOME A SAVVY SAVER


So, you want to splash the cash, but the only problem is you haven't got any. Of course you would love to be able to drop serious dollar on that handbag, a pair must-have red licked heels or even a oooh-awww inducing Tom Ford lipstick, but when it comes to the crunch - (in a Miranda voice should you please...) it really is quite a lot of money. Naturally all the beautiful things in life are the most expensive,  materialistic terms i'm talking here - let's not get too deep. The trick of the matter is to save. 

Ugh yes - that dreaded phrase. I'm not trying to be your Gran, or instil some life wisdom - but I bought three high-end handbags (and I ain't on no banker wage - just pure determination). You don't have to earn mega bucks, slave away half your wages each month or live off baked beans - saving can be easy - you just have to get behind the idea and motivate yourself - a little mulberry motivation never hurt no body.


Be Honest - What can you save?      

Set a target of what you would live to save, how long it will realistically take you and - don't beat yourself up if you have a Zara spree by accident one month. Assess your spending, what do splurge on but don't really need. Blindingly obvious stuff, but have you really thought about it? Are you tempted to spend more money with a debit card or cash? If I have a note in my purse, I will blow it on a cheeky hot chocolate and shitty mag I probably won't read, so I stick to carrying cards. It's not about putting pressure on yourself, its about being savvy. 

Back to Basics - cut out the crap.     

Do you really need that? Should be your top question. Ban the impulse purchases and set yourself a budget of how much you want to spend this month. It doesn't need to be drastic, but another lipstick (when you own fifty?) or eating out some where pricey every other night adds up. Ditch those magazines you flick through in all of five minutes & cut down your Primark addiction (it all falls apart....) Or give yourself £50 budget a week to have 'fun' and be done with. Wise up your spending habits, by all means don't be a tight missy, just suss out what you don't need.

If you really really want it, write it down. I currently have a list of beauty product's i'm desparado to splurge on, but flicking through now - there's probably only a handful I would still want now. Don't buy into the hype. Or whack it on to a Christmas/Birthday list and you can wave goodbye to awful presents - win win situation.

Let's be frank here, I get so many disgruntled looks/comments about my Mulberry handbags from the same people who tell me they can't afford it, but they happily drop £80 on a Zara bag each month. Where are your girl maths qualifications at? Seriously. One investment that you'll love & wear each day, or a throwaway high-street buy you'll get tired of in three weeks because everyone and their gran has it. 


Little by little, week by week.           

Pop a tener in a jar (like the lovingly made one above) each week and by Christmas you will have £260. A nice treat in the sales or a helping hand towards presents, and to be honest would you really miss £10 a week? I probably spend that in Boots (on stuff I don't need), er cake & hot choc in Pret (don't judge me) or going over my phone bill (whoops). Even whacking in small silver change or loose pound coins will soon add over time. And if you don't trust yourself to not raid your jar, then set up a weekly direct debit into an ISA account - saving without even doing anything.. ta dah!

 Sophie, one of my favourite fashion bloggers, who can impressively spend her wages on ASOS/Zara before the money's hit her account got savvy and in the last year bought a Kitchen Aid (oooh) and Mulberry bag. From simply saving a little bit each month, over time. Whatever you do buy, whether that is a holiday or  kitchen appliance (!) you will value it so much more. 

Earn the extra dollar!                      

 Go through your unloved clothing items/accessories and have an eBaying spree (see my post here). I earnt well over £200 smackers, putting it towards my handbag purchase, by selling clothes I never planned on wearing again but taking up space. Earn cashback through buying through specialist sites such as Boots Treat Street - see Leanne's excellent post on how to get to grips with cashback sites. 

Of course, whilst the finer things in life are nice - saving for birthdays, christmases (creeps on you like a motherf that one) and everyday savings are handy to have. Without sounding all doom or gloom, but you never know what's around the corner.. cough Net-A-Porter sale. Haters gunna hate. But you can do it!

I hope you found this post useful and I didn't preach too much! If you have any top saving tips, then please leave them below.  And if you're here to say OH MA GOD, you dropped that on a handbag, then get a grip and excuse yourself from my existence. Tar then! 


19 June 2013

HOT SHOT! LIP MARKER

Lip Marker - Topshop (£8.00)

I am a total stranger when it comes to a bright lip. In fact it screams danger. Oh how I would love to pull off a statement cherry pink, but alas I think i'm far too pale and I would probably end up smearing it all over my gob - classy. However, all change here, all change. For when I was innocently placing a Topshop order last week, they were oh so kind to send me an offer to tempt me back to my old Topshop addict ways: a free lip marker. Well I was sold, and so was most of Topshop.. to me.

What a face!  Screams Crimewatch.
It's bold, its brash, it's bloody hot shit. Yes, I can quite accept that I am useless at colouring in my lips (see photos) but I'm rather taken with this Lip Marker. I've been a big supporter of Topper's make-up since the beginning (hate the cream blushes though, yuck - pass) Hot Shot did not disappoint. Highly pigmented and uber long-lasting (without the awkward dry lip situ) it wears on the lips perfectly to a stain like effect. Completely fool-proof I neither have to check my teeth for tragic lipstick on teeth disasters or  'remember' to re-apply (my biggest failure in the make-up world). 

In fact I forget I'm wearing it, till I catch myself in the mirror and I think... blimmin' heck. 

Do you dare to wear bright shades?

18 June 2013

THE PRINTED TROUSER: TAKE TWO

Scratch Print Trousers - River Island (£30.00) / Grey Knit - Topshop - yes I bought it (£34.00) / Sandals - Topshop - yes I bought these too... (£18.00)

After my first stylish dabble into the world of printed trousers, I was clearly hooked. With the weather being horrendously pants, I still want to look summery - but ovbs warm, as summer it is not. Needing to exchange a very ill-fitting dress in River Island, I swapped for these tribal offerings. So very comfortable (hello elasticated waist band) they have a neat little pocket detail that adds a certain edge Dressed up or down, the print is neither bland or LOOK at me - my dread is that I resemble a children's tv presenter. Tell me I don't look like a tv presenter? Either way these are the perfect transitional piece this season, even if I look back in ten years & cringe.

Do we love or hate?

16 June 2013

STEPPING INTO SUMMER



Tan Leather Peep-Toe Pumps - New Look (£19.99)

In search of a new summer sandal for everyday-wear and city life I came across these pretty looking fellows in New Look. Easy to wear, surprisingly comfortable and quite the steal at £20, there are my new firm favourite. Perfect for this 'I can't/won't make my mind up weather.' Le sigh, will sunny days arrive soon? We can only hope!

Do you have a pair of go-to sandals? 

12 June 2013

OFFICE CHIC


Knitted Fine Gauge Skirt - Topshop (£34.00) / Necklace - H&M (£9.99) / Skinnies - Next (£22.00) / Sandals - Topshop (£18.00) / Dovima - Nars (£14.50) 

When I clapped eyes on this grey fine knit from Topshop it was love at first sight. The perfect wardrobe classic - it may not be a show-stopper, but it's certainly one of those pieces you can throw on and trust it to work with any outfit. I cannot wait to team this with a sequin embellished skirt I have tucked away, unloved as I cannot quite get it to 'work'. Or throwing over the numerous summer dresses I own for a more polished feel. 

As sharing is caring... With any Topshop order enter 'TSLIPMARKER' for free lipstick & free delivery for orders over £30 with UKFREE30


What classic piece do you feel your self reaching for? 

9 June 2013

LETS CHAT!

I'm feeling chatty so I'm afraid it's going to be one of 'those' posts - brace yourself. This week has been rather a roller-coaster of excitement, celebration and sadness in equal measure, so grab a cup of tea and let's talk. 

First up was the Mother's 50th birthday, a complete nightmare for sussing out birthday presents months in advance (this is who I get my 'I can't keep secret to save my life trait' from), my family surprised her with a Tiffany voucher which took her all of 10 minutes to mentally spend after whipping out the iPad (another trait inherited). 


We took a trip up into London town on Wednesday for some serious girl-time which translates to hardcore shopping and stuffing our faces. If you haven't been to The Diner, what are you waiting for? Give a girl a cheese burger goodness, strawberry milkshake, sweet potato fries, onion rings and she's yours. May or may I not have dropped serious dollar of a cheeky handbag purchase... 


Wednesday was a sombre day, for we had to say a tearful goodbye to our westie, Billy. Having been in the Sandiford family for over 16 years, he was a cheeky little fellow that will be sorely missed. Lying in the sunshine today, I was waiting for him to pad over and join me, but the pang of sadness struck. I don't think you ever quite grasp how sad it is to loose a pet, until you sadly do. Finding it unbearably hard.


Playing up to his cheeky character, Billy can be found over the years photo-bombing various blog photos: example 1 & 2.


Taking full advantage of the sunshine, Matthew and I stole away to Brighton to celebrate our 10th anniversary (pass the sick bucket eh?). We met aged 14 in English class and have been together ever since, ever so soppy, but with a good excuse to explore our favourote seaside haven off we went! 


Staying in the Artist Residence, a very budget friendly hotel, each room is designed by a different artist - some crazy, some cool, some a little too odd.. That being said this was our third or fourth stay! We stayed in the Pinky Vision room on this occasion, but highly recommend the Atlantis and Panorama rooms for a very arty experience. Located opposite the old pier in Regency Square you are within walking distance to the front & main town - perfect. Settling for lunch and stroll on the beach, we went for Bills for dinner (fish finger sarnie for the win!) and made the most of a beautiful weekend. 


A little peak into my week, just in case you fancied being nosey. As you read I'm actually scoffing afternoon tea with the girls for part 3 (!!!) of my mum's birthday celebrations at Fortnum and Mason. A yummy cake post to follow! And maybe one on that handbag eh??

What have you been up to this week?


6 June 2013

THE NEED TO KNOW: FAKE TAN


With the sunshine making quite the appearance this week (hurrah!) it begs that age old question of: do we dare to bare? Turning our once pasty selves into golden bronzed goddesses, with olive hues and a warm glow to rival a two week tropical holiday. Because let's face it, straight out the bottle is the closet I'm going to get - Gisele eat your heart out. Fake tan is an area of expertise and not to be taken lightly (har har) with over 6 years of experience and disasters (sachets of fake tanning wipes aged 14 anyone?) I like to think I got this business down to a T. A few things I've learnt...

1) I'm really lazy. I only do body parts that are actually on show.

2) I'm really impatient. I want to be olive, like tomorrow ok?

3) Did I mention I'm real lazy? I don't do acrobatic applications, excessive exfoliation or bother reapply every night, meh.   

So with those thoughts in mind, I handpicked my favourite fake tanners...

Instant Tanning Mousse - St Moritz (£2.99) / Ultra Tan Absolute Luxe Tanner - Xen Tan (£28.99) 

THE QUICK FIX - St Moritz                     

As you've already guessed, St Moritz, as the name suggests is the complete rip-off of another tanning brand on the market, yet a slashing of the price. Coming in at a cheap as chips £2.99, this fake tanning mousse is bloody good value, works amazingly well and easily to get hold of. After having quite a few tricky disasters with high-street tanners, St Mortiz knocks every other one out of the water. This deep olive based mousse glides on leaving a relatively dark guide colour that develops over a few hours - ideal for a spontaneous, impromptu nights out where you think 'oh shit! my (very, very white) legs!'. St Moritz waves goodbye to dreaded tango, leaving a streak-free deep olive tan with a very easy application. A little goes a long way with the mousse formula, but slightly drying so it's important to wack on a body butter the day after. 

Best for: when payday seems like lightyears away and you're in need of a quick, cheap fix. 

THE PAMPER & PREEN - Xen Tan          

Having never clapped eyes on a fake tanner that has created such a deep olive, natural looking tan (heck even two weeks in Cuba is nothing compared to this bad boy) it costs big bucks. A thick luxurious caramel scented cream, it instantly leaves an impressive tan that can easily be built upon. Long lasting, Xen Tan is the perfect option for when you have a special occasion or in need of a good pamper. Fool proof, the guide colour is easy to follow and application is easy as pie (though you will need a large dollop) so keep for your Sunday best. Rather moisturising, this tan fades to perfection - neither looking patchy or scaly - just a post holiday glow. Serious brownie points for not transferring on to bedding or nightwear - but for that price, it shouldn't.

Best for: when it's imperative you look better than everyone else at said occasion, including all family members and 'her'.

Every Day Body Moisturiser - St Tropez (£12.15)

THE DAILY GRADUAL TANNER - St Tropez   

Never have I used a gradual tanner with such fabulous results - no really, they are the ultimate tanning war zone. Fluorescent orange is a phrase that jumps to mind. But St Tropez banish these unsightly thoughts for their Every Day Body Moisturiser is simply a joy to use. You heard right.. a JOY. With serious intensive moisturising properties, this badboy not only leaves skin feeling hydrated and silky soft, it creates a warm build-able tanned hue. Subtle but noticeable, the gel formula is super easy to use. I even go the full hog and not use a tanning mitt (its that good!). Should a sunny spell appear, I whip this out and apply every other night for the 'natural' look. My only grumble is the upkeep, should you get lazy you may appear a tad patchy.. but all is resolved with these funky multi-purpose shower gloves (sexy!).

Best for: when a sunny spell arrives and you need to up your game sister. 

Have you tried any of these fake tans? If not, which is your go-to product? Now more importantly, whens someone going to brew a bottle of freckles?

4 June 2013

INTERIOR WISH LIST

The topic of interiors is something I have recently stumbled upon in the last few months. Writing about the subject in my day to day life, working for a homewear brand (ohh the mystery!), it's fair to say I have truly fallen all things décor. Finding myself inspired by different styles, textures and interesting ideas - my Pinterest board is starting to feel majorly confused to say the least. Whilst I'm not ready to fly the nest just as such - sorry dad - I have spotted a few key pieces that would refresh any space (interior lingo at it's finest!)...

Cut Jars - Zara Home (from £17.99) / Mini Jam Jars - John Lewis (£3.00) / Desk Tidy - Cath Kidston (£22.00) / Carved Jewellery Box - Monsoon (£19.00) / Laundry Bag - Zara Home (£9.99) / Coco Storage Boxes - Laura Ashley (£25.00) / Moss Stitched Blanket - Zara Home (£59.99) /  Alphabet 'S' Candle - Urban Outfitters (£4.00) / Summer Palace Cushion - Laura Ashley (£48.00) / Quote Cushion Cover - H&M (£6.99) / Mirrored Tray - Laura Ashley (£35.00) / Celine Drawer Pulls - Laura Ashley (£16.00) / Mini Heart Frame - John Lewis (£6.00) / Perfume Bottle - John Lewis (£8.00)

I adore the print of the weeping willow and bird cushion from Laura Ashley (squeal at the matching wallpaper!) as is the rather cute quote cushion cover from H&M - a hidden gem for home pieces it seems. John Lewis of course always has adorable trinklets on hand for any feminine abode, with those stylish spanish offerings from Zara Home delivering on trend pieces - how adorable are the glass bottles  and laundry bag. The perfect addition to any girls dressing room, this mirrored tray from Laura Ashley would look beautiful playing host to all your must-have perfumes.

What is your favourite item from the wish list?

2 June 2013

STYLE #2: The Printed Trouser


T-shirt - Topshop (£12.00) / Necklace - Next* (£10.00) / Cardigan - H&M (£9.99) / Printed Trousers - H&M (£19.99)

With this seasons biggest trend being the printed trouser, it takes sheer nerve and fashion balls to nail this S/S must-have. Coached on by the leading lady of printed trousers Aisling, I found my perfect print in H&M. A floral tapered pair, with hues of light grey and slight blueish tinge, they are daring but incredably safe. Paired with a simple white tee or glammed up with a cream blouse for evening, they are efforlessly easy to wear (and comortable!). The pattern is laid back, without feeling too bold, but feminine and classic at the same time. In love!

Have you ventured into the printed trouser trend?
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