The City Girl Blog

Five Things: In with the new

Mon, 19 Feb 2018 07:00:00 +0000

Hello you.

Let's gloss over the fact I've been an absolute stranger ok - as I'm back in the game with a fresh five things that I felt the need to share on the internet. You ready?

1. Spending the weekend in Bath... in a bath

And that's exactly what I did. Taking full advantage of my work perks (amen sister!) Matthew and I headed off to Bath for a long weekend of exploring, eating, house hunting and general galavanting about like we were on a film set. Oh let us not forget the massive marble bath tub that Instagrammed the shit out of and bathed in 5675878 times. Should you be in need of a 'girl' weekend, Bath has amazing spas and array of shops. Plus it's insta gold.

2. Pilates - but kinda wanting pie and lattes

It's equally impressive and disgusting at just how many get-out-of-gym excuses I can muster - especially now that my work hours are more flexible and I can actually go to a class before 11pm. Exaggeration but still.
With a groan (and no excuses left) I hauled my ass to pilates last Thursday eve to ease myself back in. Not only did my knees crack loudly and I marvelled at my entire body shaking like an earthquake when really I was only stretching (hmm) - I am pleased to confirm there has been a discovery of my inner core, however deeply buried.
Although I am now in intense pain every time I sneeze, laugh or bend over to take the Haagen Diaz out of the freezer.

3. Two for your reading list

In a bid to not fall back asleep on my morning commute, I recently flew through two books that you need to add to your reading list.

First up is The Power by Naomi Alderman, a page turner that I finished within a week, the blurb screams girl crap - when really it's thought provoking and incredibly well written. I can't tell you the number of women I've seen on the tube engrossed in it's pages.

Next up is the spy thriller I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes. I'm a bit late to the party on this one but it's been topping the best seller charts for years. I found it a little to slow to start but persevered to find myself hooked. So much so, I put my phone on airplane mode as not to be interrupted. Yep.

4. Stuck on repeat

This year so far I have become a total repeat outfit offender. Mainly because: firstly I've had to drop a ridiculous amount on dental fees* and secondly, there's absolutely zilch that's caught my eye. Mainly the first reason tho. But y'know what? It's forced to me to actually wear the gazillion jumpers I 'invested in' and get my pay per wear. And also cause the dental fees and those pricey af bricks in my future invisible house.

5. WYNTK: Beauty banks

What you need to know: Sali Hugh's beauty banks. Did you know the UK suffers from hygiene poverty meaning many girls miss school when they are on their period because they simply can't afford tampons or pads? It's shocking.

Cleanliness is a right, not a privilege says beauty journo (and all around legend) Sali Hughes, who this week announced her genius idea for people like you and I to donate to 'beauty banks'. From the mini toiletries we sneakily stash away from hotel stays to simply popping an extra pack of tampons our weekly shop - you can donate to the beauty banks by following the steps here.

Lusting after:

This overpriced burst of colour that my wardrobe needs - but not the dry cleaning only bill. Urgh.

*£900 - a genetic gum problem just to clarify, incase you think I'm a rotter.

ULTIMATE GIFT GUIDE 2017

Sun, 03 Dec 2017 18:50:00 +0000

As we tiptoe into December, 'tis the season for finding for the perfect gifts. As well as you know spending time with family, getting merry and all that festive fun. But I absolutely searching out the perfect present for my friends and fam - you might have already guessed that! - and let's be honest there's nothing better than receiving a gift that has been hand-picked just for you.

That being said I have once again compiled my ultimate annual gift guide for your perusal. Whether for your gal pals, sisters, mothers - or yourself - here is my collection of the most oh so tempting must-have beauty finds, interior treasures and coveted wardrobe wants.

So without further ado, go forth and browse...

Set of three note books - Kate Spade ∙ Flamingo socks - Topshop ∙ Pink scarf - Topshop ∙ Tap dat card holder - Skinny Dip ∙ Cult classics set - Fresh ∙ Pink embellished heels - Topshop ∙ Shazam lipstick - Topshop ∙ 36 hours in Europe book - The New York Times ∙ Pink air force ones - Nike ∙ Apron - Kate Spade ∙ Pink notebook - Quill ∙ Pink cashmere hat and glove set - Topshop ∙ Pencil set - Liberty ∙ Leather envelope clutch - & Other Stories ∙ Initial notebook - Kate Spade ∙ Blah blah blah notebook - Symthson ∙ Tweezers - Selfridges ∙ Compact mirror - Kate Spade ∙ Lip trio - Fresh

Silver bag - Topshop ∙ Daily notes - Kikki K ∙ Gazelles - Adidas ∙ Paperweight - Monsoon ∙ Yass notebook - Paperchase ∙ Santa baby socks - Topshop ∙ Lip masterclass - Charlotte Tilbury ∙ Amsterdam print - Rifle Paper Co ∙ Pink sunglasses - & Other Stories ∙ Constellation pendent - Accessorize ∙ Ballet slippers - John Lewis ∙ Striped scarf - & Other Stories ∙ Pale pink glitter set - Deborah Lippmann ∙ Sheepskin cushion - Oliver Bonas ∙ Thermal mug - Kate Spade ∙ Make your own neon sign - Urban Outfitters ∙ Festive beauty box - Burberry

Ballerina pumps - M&S ∙ Paperweight - Monsoon ∙ Love - West Elm ∙ Nail varnish - Tom Ford ∙ Pink notebook - Kate Spade ∙ Luggage tag - Topshop ∙ Heart print - Oliver Bonas ∙ Star choker necklace - Accessorize ∙ Pink jewellery box - Oliver Bonas ∙ Pink cashmere blend jumper - Topshop ∙ Pink cashmere blend joggers - Topshop ∙ Champagne truffles - Charbonnel et Walker ∙ Travel case - Oliver Bonas ∙ Lunch bag - Kate Spade ∙ Keyboard cover - Urban Outfitters ∙ Touche Eclat - YSL ∙ Gold bottle opener - Kikki K ∙ Wake up candle - Kikki K ∙ Hammered cuff - & Other Stories ∙ Pink velvet make up bag - Oliver Bonas ∙ Hers coaster - John Lewis

Memo board - Made ∙ Grey dressing gown - Topshop ∙ Highlighter set - Becca ∙ Lipstick vault - Mac ∙ Cashmere mix socks - Next ∙ Jewellery stand - MADE ∙ Eyelash curlers - Charlotte Tilbury ∙ Copper mirror - Oliver Bonas ∙ Pineapple ice bucket - M&S ∙ Mini moon stud - Astley Clarke ∙ Star & teardrop hair clips - Oliver Bonas ∙ Rose gold bag - Topshop ∙ Face mask - Charlotte Tilbury ∙ Lip 'n prep - Fresh ∙ Jumper - Joules ∙ Copper clock - M&S ∙ Highlighter - Topshop ∙ Marble pots - Made

Cracker - Marc Jacobs ∙ Velvet heels - Topshop ∙ Pocket selection - Hotel Chocolat ∙ Star necklace - Astley Clarke ∙ The Power - Naomi Alderman ∙ Lipstick pin - Whistles ∙ Lips mug - H&M ∙ Leather croc tote - Whistles ∙ Gold set - Marc Jacobs ∙ Card holder - YSL ∙ Candle collection - Jo Malone ∙ Leather purse - & Other Stories ∙ Moon star necklace - Hush ∙ Cracker - Jo Malone ∙ Glasses case - John Lewis ∙ Pink stacking ring - Monica Vinader ∙ H box - Hotel Chocolat ∙ Red glitter set - Deborah Lippmann

Face spray cracker - Caudalie ∙ Mini lipsticks - Charlotte Tilbury ∙ Shot glasses - M&S ∙ Liquid lipstick set - Stila ∙ Mini brush set - Charlotte Tilbury ∙ iPhone Cable - Oliver Bonas ∙ Star bangle - Hush ∙ Purse - Mulberry ∙ Fiji bracelet - Monica Vinader ∙ Wine Cashmere blend jumper - Topshop ∙ Pineapple vase - Oliver Bonas ∙ Wine cashmere blended joggers - Topshop ∙ Golden rose set - Tom Ford ∙ Copper wine rack - Oliver Bonas ∙ Small Darley satchel oxblood - Mulberry ∙ Glow highlighter - Topshop ∙ Copper tape - Quill ∙ Lipstick collection - Bobbi Brown ∙ Cracker - Fresh

Luna ring - Monica Vinader ∙ Alphabet stickers - Oliver Bonas ∙ Mirror - M&S ∙ Decanter - John Lewis ∙ Star keyring - Oliver Bonas ∙ Mini tracker - Tile ∙ Recipe stand - Oliver Bonas ∙ Pouch - Katie Loxton ∙ Gold speck mug - Anthropologie ∙ Pineapple - Oliver Bonas ∙ Brass and marble desk pot - Oliver Bonas ∙ Small Darley satchel gold - Mulberry ∙ Instella bracelet - Missoma ∙ Monogram mug - Anthropologie ∙ Opal hoop earrings - Accessorize ∙ Gold vase - Oliver Bonas ∙ Gold air force ones - Nike

Navy lace bra - & Other Stories ∙ Navy lace knickers - & Other Stories ∙ Jumper - J Crew ∙ Eye mask - Oliver Bonas ∙ Mini kit - OUAI ∙ Star bracelet - Missoma ∙ Navy velvet make up bag - Oliver Bonas ∙ Geometric hoop earrings - & Other Stories ∙ Wrap pj body - Topshop ∙ Leather gold pouch - Kikki K ∙ Star & moon hair clip - Oliver Bonas ∙ Ombre water bottle - Swell ∙ Monogram pouch - Accessorize ∙ Necklace - Missoma ∙ Velvet hair clip - Oliver Bonas ∙ Pom pom slippers - John Lewis

Tortoise shell sunglasses - Topshop ∙ Gold pen set - Kate Spade ∙ Leopard print scarf - Oliver Bonas ∙ Cashmere hat - Warehouse ∙ Monogram glass - Anthropologie ∙ Tortoise shell sunglasses - & Other Stories ∙ Two tone scarf - & Other Stories ∙ Nude purse - Whistles ∙ Memo wrack - Paper Chase ∙ Leopard print umbrella - Topshop ∙ Riva stacking ring - Monica Vinader ∙ Fur stole - Topshop ∙ Instant eye palette - Charlotte Tilbury ∙ Sheepskin slippers - Topshop ∙ Leopard print clutch - Whistles ∙ Gift coin - Liberty ∙ Wire gold hoops - & Other Stories ∙ Small nude Darley - Mulberry ∙ Rollerball fragrance - Tom Ford ∙ Sheepskin booties - Topshop ∙ Leopard print belt - Topshop ∙ Cashmere tan gloves - Warehouse

Falling fast lipstick - Topshop / Cook book - Shake Shack ∙ Pencil set - Kate Spade ∙ Vinyl - Guardians of the Galaxy ∙ Personalised diary - Papier ∙ Banana leaf wall decoration - Selfridges ∙ Mugs - Kate Spade ∙ Water bottle - Fabled ∙ 2018 calendar - Rifle Paper Co ∙ Hello you make up bag - M&S ∙ Wunderlust journal - Rifle Paper Co ∙ Yellow pom pom hat - Topshop ∙ Beauty besties - Fresh ∙ Travel laundry bags - Oliver Bonas ∙ Perfume collection - Jo Malone ∙ Botanical cards - Rifle Paper Co ∙ Record player - Crosley ∙ Mittens - Jigsaw ∙ Lemon enamel pin - Rifle Paper Co ∙ G&T lip balm - M&S ∙ Medium stacking ring - Monica Vinader ∙ Prism water bottle - Swell ∙ 5 Ingredients - Jamie Oliver ∙ Brights varnish set - Deborah Lippmann

Molten hoop earrings - Missoma ∙ Glow duo - Bobbi Brown ∙ Magazine rack - Oliver Bonas ∙ Make up bag - Charlotte Tilbury ∙ Earphone holder tan - Monsoon ∙ Leather coral pouch - Kikki K ∙ Cheers - West Elm ∙ Monogram pouch - Accessorize ∙ Stripe glitter socks - Topshop ∙ Little Black Book - Ottegha Uwagba ∙ Take my hand print - Oliver Bonas ∙ Lipstick - Tom Ford ∙ Hot water bottle - Oliver Bonas ∙ Agenda - Rifle Paper Co ∙ Moon ring - Missoma ∙ Mini glow tonic - Pixi ∙ Sunglasses pin - Rifle Paper Co ∙ Haircare set - Bumble & Bumble ∙ Seagrass basket - Oliver Bonas ∙ Initial keyring - Warehouse ∙ Heart keyring - Kikki K ∙ Ambient lighting palette - Hourglass

Star & teardrop hair clips - Oliver Bonas ∙ Hello - West Elm ∙ Standing gold planter - West Elm ∙ Cashmere bed socks - John Lewis ∙ Gold water bottle - Swell ∙ Moon and star studs - Missoma ∙ Cactus pin - Whistles ∙ Feather bookmark - & Other Stories ∙ Pineapple - Oliver Bonas ∙ After morning kit - OUAI ∙ Half moon planter - Urban Outfitters ∙ Grid wine rack - Oliver Bonas ∙ Footstool - West Elm ∙ Instella drop necklace - Missoma ∙ Mirror - H&M ∙ Gold letter necklace - J Crew ∙ Green and marble jewellery box - Oliver Bonas

Star necklace - & Other Stories ∙ Glossy hoop earrings - & Other Stories ∙ Nail liner - DIOR ∙ Initial pendent necklace - Missoma ∙ Tote bag - Whistles ∙ Book ends - Oliver Bonas ∙ Mascara set - Dior ∙ Coin purse - Mulberry ∙ Let's go home keyring - John Lewis ∙ Make up kit - Victoria Beckham ∙ Shoot for the stars candle - Kikki K ∙ Dipping set - Hotel Chocolat ∙ More less shot glass - Kate Spade ∙ Beauty box - Victoria Beckham ∙ Lipstick case - Bobbi Brown ∙ Measuring cups - Anthroplogie ∙ Stud boots - Topshop ∙ Eyeshadow - Victoria Beckham ∙ Star bag - Stella McCartney

Silver belt - Warehouse ∙ Varnish bauble - Essie ∙ Leather baby blue pouch - Kikki K ∙ Cashmere hoody - Topshop ∙ Earphone holder silver - Monsoon ∙ Goals journal - Kikki K ∙ Earphone holder navy - Monsoon ∙ Socks - Oliver Bonas ∙ Address book - Kikki K ∙ Satin pjs - Topshop ∙ Monogrammed clutch - Warehouse ∙ Gift coin - Liberty ∙ Neptune water bottle - Swell ∙ Instagram city book - Oliver Bonas ∙ Tote bag - Oliver Bonas ∙ Lips and lashes scarf - Oliver Bonas

Chocolate hamper - Hotel Chocolat ∙ Cashmere slippers - H&M ∙ Beauty kit - Net-A-Porter ∙ Cashmere pj bottoms - M&S ∙ Bralet - Calvin Klein ∙ Striped dressing gown - Topshop ∙ Bag of tricks pouch - Katie Loxton ∙ Star trainers - Next ∙ Merino wool headband - & Other Stories ∙ Cashmere scarf - Warehouse ∙ Pom pom DIY kit - John Lewis ∙ Moon phases print - Oliver Bonas ∙ Pearl t-shirt - Warehouse ∙ Chain bag - Topshop

What's topping your Christmas list this year?

Stay tuned for later this week where I will share my top independent businesses to #shopsmall from this Christmas.

MY DAILY LOOK: Walk On The Wild Side

Sat, 11 Nov 2017 09:19:00 +0000

I have a not-so-secret addiction to leopard print. A hint of print here and there. Or the POW in your face kind. I'm easy.

On last count I have exactly three pairs of leopard print flats already in my wardrobe (um), so naturally when my pal clocked these French Sole beauties and shared them with with me - I snapped them up in a heartbeat. Animal print clearly brings out my reckless side, and my credit card.

French Sole are a brand that has been on my radar for many years, known for their iconic ballet flats I remember gazing upon in the likes of InStyle and Marie Claire back in the day and thinking clearly this is what Parisian style is. Which isn't bad going for a brand that was actually founded in London.

Purchased from the Outnet (the sister discount site of Net-A-Porter), they were admittedly a little over my budget but with a snappy 40% reduction and with it being my first payday in three months, all hell broke loose.

They are slim (emphasis on s l i m, they are no-go if you have wider feet) and sophisticated. When I wear them I feel like doing a light fancy fast paced step to wherever I'm heading. Those swish Parisian vibes remember. Additionally, whilst they may be real suede and pony hair, I cannot fault the quality. With non-stop wear, I'm yet to see any marks or tear.

I feel like this might just be the beginning of a very fancy ballet flat collection in the works.

*Side note: How fancy did I feel purchasing something from the Outnet eh? This will probably never happen again.

THE LUST LIST: THE COAT EDIT 2017

Sat, 04 Nov 2017 09:58:00 +0000

It's the moment I've been waiting for since the nightmare of mild, sweaty weather kicked in - the chill has finally set in at last and it's officially winter coat weather. Hell to the yeah.

An effortless (read: lazy) way to look put together, it's also the simplest way to be as snug as humanly possible whilst looking equally as presentable. But before we begin, can we all take a moment to roll our eyes at how blimmin spendy a decent coat will set you back these days? Especially one that will take you beyond one season of wear.

With that in mind - and now that I've taken last years coats out of storage and had them dry cleaned - I've pulled together my edit of the trend-ticking styles to have on your radar. Ones that won't hopefully break the bank and that will last you for more seasons to come.

Warehouse (£90.30) ∙ River Island (£85.00) ∙ Topshop (£59.00) ∙ Oliver Bonas (£185.00) ∙ Topshop (£95.00) ∙ Mango (£139.99) ∙ Zara (£99.99) ∙ Topshop (£65.00) ∙ H&M (£59.99) ∙ Topshop (£75.00)

Mango (£69.99) ∙ Zara (£79.99) ∙ Topshop (£120.00) ∙ Mango (£79.99)

Zara (£49.99) ∙ Zara (£79.99) ∙ H&M (£24.99) ∙ Topshop (£100.00)

Topshop (£79.00) ∙ Zara (£99.99) ∙ Topshop (£49.00) ∙ Zara (£99.99) ∙

Topshop (£70.00) ∙ Zara (£69.99) ∙ Mango (£139.99) ∙ Zara (£89.99)

River Island (£85.00) ∙ River Island ∙ River Island (£90.00) ∙ & Other Stories (£165.00) ∙ Oasis (£98.00)

Mango (£89.99) ∙ Zara (£99.99) ∙ Zara (£119.00) ∙ Zara (£119.00)

M&S (£79.00) ∙ Topshop (£59.00) ∙ M&S (£69.00) ∙ Warehouse (£99.00) ∙ River Island (£85.00)

Topshop (£75.00) ∙ Oasis (£95.00) ∙ Mango (£39.99) ∙ Mango (£79.99) ∙ Mango (£69.99)

Mango (£79.99) ∙ River Island (£90.00) ∙ Warehouse (£89.00) ∙ Topshop (£65.00) ∙ Warehouse (£86.00) ∙ M&S (£89.00) ∙ H&M (£59.99) ∙ Zara (£89.99)

Which one(s) caught your eye?

STYLE: 7 NOW PIECES FOR YOUR WARDROBE

Tue, 10 Oct 2017 15:22:00 +0000

As I sit here in a heavy knit induced hot flush (glam as ever), winter is indeed coming as they say - just not as a quick as my winter wardrobe would hope. Taking it back to basics and stocking up the season ahead, here are 7 'now' pieces for your wardrobe that will take you through to spring. Bold claim, I know.

Trench - River Island ∙ Silver flats - Gap ∙ Pink Jumper - & Other Stories ∙ Belt - Boden ∙ Cashmere jumper - M&S ∙ Jeans - Zara ∙ Pink scarf - & Other Stories

I might have already snapped up this classic trench from River Island - ok I crumbled after my last died a sad worn out death and even the dry cleaner told me there was no going back. Whilst it may not look all that, IRL it's a corker. It's structured, of good quality and the storm flap and swish buttons certainly give it that little something something.

Admittedly my wardrobe is fifty variations of grey. Not that, you filthy minded person. I'm talking charcoals, gun metals to pastel hues. In a bid to liven shit up, this 'woah there nelly' PINK as a punch jumper from & Other Stories is just the style shake up I'm after.

As is the snazzy leopard print belt from Boden (you can find a similar less pricey version from Warehouse here) Having picked up a similar style whilst in Dallas from Banana Republic (RIP), it's another of layer of animal print that my wardrobe craves. And if like me you fan girl over Emma Hill, belts are my new go-to accessory.

Three pieces that your wardrobe will thank you for: a cashmere lightweight jumper*, a pastel hue scarf and a premium (but still highstreet) pair of jeans you can wear everyday.

BRB - just adding it all to my basket.

To ponder, delete, re-add back in, buy.

And then the weather will turn bloody chilly.

*Yes, cashmere is a pricey investment - and whilst it does pay to spend that bit extra, I do have a spendy tips and tricks post up my sleeve coming soon.

FIVE THINGS: Hello

Fri, 29 Sep 2017 05:45:00 +0000

It's been a while since I simply said hello.

There have been an assortment of beauty and style posts lurking over the past few months, but I haven't said a proper hello in a long time.

In the short space of summer, quite a lot changed and life threw a few curveballs. Which at the time seemed pretty horrendous but really looking back now, it makes me want to roll my eyes into the back of my head and say hang on pal, it's gunna be fine. Which it is. Because of course life has a way of working out like that.

So hello, here are five things to read on a Friday.

1) Ch-ch-changes

To keep things short and snappy, here's a little recap of how my summer went down. Incase you missed my internal monologue on twitter:

Suddenly found myself without a job.

Started panicking.

Panicked a bit more.

Decided to learn to drive with new found free time (didn't happen).

Began to miss my train commute - WTF.

Scheduled in multiple gym classes with new found free time (this half happened).

Somehow cancelled out above point by eating out way too often.

Accepted a brand spanking new dream job, all within a month of loosing previous job.

Took a mini break to Cornwall with Matthew in a 7 hour car ride and ate multiple cornish ice creams in one day. Living my best life. Then my family whisked me on a weekend break to Dublin, where we basically did a drinking tour of the city. And I ate 10 chicken wings in one sitting.

2) Then onto the good stuff

Started dream job in a higher position with a super cool company. So far there have been fresh, new challenges and a trip to Dallas in my second week (!) to meet my lovely new team. That means Sephora happened. J Crew happened. Watch this space.

3) Jetting off, again

Remember that time I spent 8 hours in a mini bus to Amsterdam back in January and saw like, zilch of the city? No, me neither. I have mentally blocked out that shit show. I am however jetting off on another city break (this is my life now) back to Amsterdam where Matthew and I will be staying at the swish Hoxton hotel to celebrate out birthdays in October. We blagged 25% discount by snapping up an offer on their email newsletter and now I am avidly planning our trip. Recommendations kindly appreciated.

4) Another year bites the dust

It's true, I'm nearing the end of my twenties. Not too close! But close enough for people to bunch up their noses and ask why I'm not yet a house owner or married. So for number quatre in my 5 things and an answer to their confusion, let's leave this here and let the tumble weed roll.

5) You need this...

Zara blazer in your life. The one I'm wearing above.

Check blazers might be all the rage this season, but really they are ugly as hell and they'll be in your local charity shop by February.

STYLE: THE TROUSER CONVERT

Sun, 03 Sep 2017 10:14:00 +0000

Before we get down to all the important trouser talk, I need to start by saying - you need to clap eyes on this French embroidered t-shirt from Topshop. It is a SNIP at £12. This is not a drill people. It is not only cute, it is not cropped (!!) and it has a nice sleeve length. Snap it up here.

Now - onto trousers. I hate trousers. There I said it.
Unflattering, uncomfortable and entirely uninterested just about sums it up.
Stuck in a jean rut that I desperately needed out of, I threw shit to the wind and snapped up this loss tailored sale pair in River Island.

T-shirt - Topshop ∙ Trousers - River Island ∙ Shoes - Topshop (previous season)

As it turns out, transitional dressing ain't my thing. I am apparently only capable of dressing for the deepest depths of winter, crisp spring or sunshine filled days. All that in-between, hell breaks loose and I become a slave to my (too-ripped) jeans.

This RI trouser offering however make all the difference. I feel like 1) I'm actually making an effort 2) with next to no effort. They are elasticated at the back (can we get a hell yeah!), they have pockets, have enough material room to tuck in tops without the dreaded buldge and they are lightweight enough to wear on the hottest of city days whilst looking like you are keeping your cool.

This pair might have been in the sale, but they've got different colour ways still in stock - I'm tempted to even invest in the grey for spring next year. Now that is how you know you are onto a winner.

Shop the post:

BEAUTY: SKINCARE HEROES

Sun, 27 Aug 2017 10:03:00 +0000

When it comes to beauty, I'm a firm believer in if you nail your skincare, everything will fall in to place. Well she hopes. And it isn't until your entire skincare stash decides to conveniently run out all at the same time, that it makes you really appreciate your skincare heroes - and your credit card.

Additionally when you also wake up one morning, fresh faced to find a pesky little line appear on your forehead - you know shit has got real and you're not on the right side of 25 anymore. Nope. After a little breakdown and 6766786 whats app messages to your pal, out comes the big guns, hard and fast..

Neutrogena facial sunscreen

Every time I travel to the US, I make sure to restock on the Neutrogena facial sunscreen in SPF 30. Christ this makes me sound like a right knobhead, but I'll admit that I have finally become one of those women. The ones that religiously slather their face in spf - shock, splutter - even in the winter months.

This light lotion from Neutrogena just makes it all too easy. After moisturising, I smooth over my skin and apply my make-up right after. I like to think the skincare gods are looking down on me proudly. But honestly, it doesn't sting your eyes, clog pores, cause breakouts, it's oil free, light-weight on the skin and doesn't leave any white tint to your face. AND you can purchase it on Amazon here.

The Ordinary Advanced Retinoid

Say hello to the new wonder brand on the block, Canadian skincare brand The Ordinary delivers high quality ingredients and premium formulations for pretty much cheap as chips. Stocked on ASOS, I quickly snapped up a number of their cult favourites and it was the retinoid serum that really stood out to me.

Applied 2-3 times a week, I pop on a few drops of the milky serum before moisturising in the evening. I won't go fully into the benefits of retinoid (you can read more here), but as anti-acing skincare goes, this is shit hot. And not only that, the next morning I instantly see brighter, softer, smoother skin. So if you are looking for an affordable anti-aging product to introduce into your skincare routine, this bad boy is a snip at £8.

Pixi Glow Tonic

An exfoliator in a bottle. Treat it as a toner with the added ingredient of glycolic acid. Light enough to be swept over the skin every morning and night, but boy, is it packing a punch. Literally wiping away dead skin cells, it will leave you with brighter looking skin, refined pores and smoother complexion. Job done.

Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment

This was my first foray into the world of Kiehls and three years later, the mint green avocado night cream is still a firm fixture in my night time routine. Being honest, I'm never really sure when a night cream is working to be frank, but when it runs out and I try and convince myself out of it - my tired, dark circles haunt me back into repurchasing. Sneaky work Kiehls, sneaky.

Origins GinZing Eye Cream & High-Potency Night Cream

If I could stand from the rooftops and shout it, I would because I bladdy love Origins. My skin quite literally drinks it up and I can't get enough of their mask (more on this to come in another post).

Their GinZing eye cream is nothing short of magic. Applied every morning, it has a slight pearly shimmer that brings a brightening WOW to your dark circles without looking like you're ready to disco. It depuffs and hydrates, leaving the perfect base for your under eye concealer.

The snazzy Orgin's High Potency Night-A-Mins moisturiser might be a pretty fancy name, but this night cream is pretty fancy. Jam-packed with vitamin C, E and H, I apply a good dollop every night after cleansing and it gives my skin a much needed shot of hydration leaving it look and feel refreshed come morning. It's pretty pricey at £36, but a tub goes a long way and I recently picked up this gift set for £36.50 for a full-size Night-A-Mins cream amongst other goodies!

Have you tried any of this beauty buys? I would love to know your faves.

STYLE: DRESSING FOR WEDDINGS

Sun, 20 Aug 2017 18:54:00 +0000

Dress - Topshop ∙ Wedges - Topshop ∙ Bag - Whistles (previous season)

I've definitely hit peak adulting. This year (and next, dare I say) is jam-packed with non-stop hen do's and save the dates penciled in. And with every wedding that sneaks up in my diary, so does the excuse for another dress. Yes I am milking every occasion.

Enter the floral fancy Topshop midi dress that I spotted as a late summer addition in their new in section. A complete and utter style snip of the Zimmermann number that the beaut Anna snapped up. As soon as I saw it, I knew I needed it, stat.

Being that girl who doesn't have a single black item in her wardrobe (no really - bar a pair of jeans), this dress was the exception to the rule. A corker of a floral print, it's super flattering with a bow detailing, a cut out section and a hem that hits just below the knee.

Despite the fact that, yes I had to fake tan the cut out section (crikey), it wasn't a crop top-esq shit show I was expecting, but actually highlighted my waist quite nicely. Not to mention it's flowing midi skirt hid multiple bits of cake I scoffed. Well done Toppers, you beauty.

This weekend I was invited to a magical wedding of my beautiful friend Jen, not only was the venue a forest wonderland twinkling with fairy lights galore, it had a silent disco (waaa!), bacon sarnies, amazing band and was decked out like something out of an Anthro store. Pinterest dreams IRL. You can sneak a pic of the stunning bride here!

I might also do a post on my beauty must-haves for my wedding guest make-up - I have found the perfect lashes that a) aren't a nightmare to apply b) don't make you look like a drag queen. Let me know!

LUST LIST: H&M NEW SEASON PICKS

Wed, 16 Aug 2017 16:20:00 +0000

As soon as the H&M catalogue came through my letter box, out came the sharpie and eagerness to swoon over new season pieces. Think pink jumpers (yes please), grey knitted cover-ups, blouses that pack a stylish edge and a pair of jeans that I never thought I would wear, but would like in my wardrobe stat - all for an affordable price tag. Here is my edit:

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Cotton blouse (£29.99) ∙ Suede bag (£34.99) ∙ Blouse frill collar (£24.99)

Pearl jeans (£34.99) ∙ Wool blend coat (£59.99) ∙ Lace shorts (£19.99)

Jumpsuit (£39.99) ∙ Embroidered t-shirt (£12.99) ∙ Green frill sandals (£24.99)

Linen t-shirt (£12.99) ∙ Pink jumper (£34.99) ∙ Sunglasses (£12.99)

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Style: How to shop on ASOS

Thu, 10 Aug 2017 07:58:00 +0000

ASOS Jumper (£32.00) / Nobody's Child dress (£28.00)

Let's face it, ASOS is hard work. Navigating through pages upon pages of products and brands on there should be a skill you can jot down on your CV. And - let's not even touch upon the nitty gritty of weighing up the hit 'n miss of their own branded line.

For a quick fashion fix however, ASOS is a goldmine just waiting to be discovered. They uncover new brands, are quick off the mark on new trends and offer super swish discounts from time to time. When you're faced with a dress dilemma, you can count on scrolling through their 5,600 styles to choose from and have it shipped to your door next day.

Making it all that bit easier, here are five tips for nailing ASOS:

1. Download the app

The ASOS app is honestly where it's at - it's basically the creme de la creme of the app world. Where the desktop version blows my mind with a gazillion pieces to look at, I can scroll through the 'new in' section whilst on my daily commute at ease.

It's super fast, easy to find your way around and the real danger is, you can check out your shopping bag like a breeze. Also, grandma talking here - you can see the items in better detail also.

ASOS Jumper (£25.00) / Maison Laiche breton (£39.00)

2. Browse the edits

Since I stumbled across the ASOS holiday edit, I've been pretty impressed with their curated lists ever since. Handpicking key pieces, I've discovered a hella a lot of new brands and styles I would have never searched for. Give them a refresh every week or so, and they are updated with brand new product. Winner!

Weekday Jumper (£40.00) / Maison Laiche jumper (£47.50)

3. Suss out the brands

ASOS has fast become my online destination for unique brands - I'm looking at you Maison Laiche Amour and Y.A.S.

OR your high street faves where items are since out of stock on their websites (hello Whistles), items where you CBA to buy off their own website (hey up Nike) or it's just easier to have delivered from ASOS (that's you, River Island).

Needle and Thread Dress (£350.00) / ASOS Jacket (£75.00)

4. Create your own faves

Whilst scrolling through ASOS, I continuously add items to my 'saved items' list. Whether I wanna snap them up on payday, feel the satisfaction of creating a dream holiday wardrobe or share with my pal (no really, you can email it) - they are also pretty savvy to have on hand when ASOS go on sale. You can go straight in and check out your faves without being distracted.

Noisy May Biker Jacket (£55.00) / Mango Frill Shirt (£35.99)

5. ASOS A-List

Many of you may already be quids in with ASOS A-List, but when I mentioned it to my pals and on twitter a few months back, it was all a bit hazy. In short, their A-List rewards is an easy way to rack up rewards that offer early sale access, birthday discounts and more importantly £5 vouchers to redeem.

If like me, you aren't that a big spender of ASOS - being serious - it is actually a) worth checking your account dashboard to see if you have any vouchers lurking (many of my pals did) b) opting in anyway as they really build up over time.

You can find out how more about ASOS A-List here.

There we have it, a crash course in getting spendy on ASOS - got any tips? I would love to hear them!

Travel: A weekend in Lisbon

Sun, 16 Jul 2017 11:25:00 +0000

First and foremost before I begin, as some of you who already follow me on instagram will know that life has somehow turned upside down (rather quickly) in the last few weeks, and whilst I will touch upon it in due course - I figured it would be perfect time to finally fill you in on my snazzy little getaway weekend in Lisbon!

Embracing my bridesmaidly duties, I planned a long weekend city break hen-do in Lisbon for bride to be Tanya. Topping the list of hen-do destinations, Lisbon most certainly has it all. As the capital city of Portugal, it's actually one of the oldest cities in the world. With rolling hills, picture postcard views, jam-packed full of history and culture, delicious food and rumbling trams - as well as offering a few hen-do antics thrown in for good measure, it had the lot!

Travel

With a quick hop across the Atlantic ocean (2hrs and 45 mins to be precise), we flew from London Gatwick on an early afternoon flight with Monarch airline, who did a cheap as chips deal with luggage thrown in. Side note: packing for a hen do is not light work, so instant WINNER.

Accommodation

Upon touching down, we took a taxi into the city centre and made our way to our very swish apartment. Located within the Baxia district, the heart of the city, our super instagramable Fanquerious apartment was serious #interiorgoals. Honestly, take a look here.

With three bedrooms, a plush living room (with an added sofa bed), full kitchen and dining area, marble bathrooms, wifi aplenty with scenic balconies that had the most heart emoji shutters, it was snip coming under under £100 per person for two nights for the seven of us! If I didn't already have plans to return to spend longer in the city, it would be to snoop out the other apartments on offer for major interior inspo on offer!

Adventures to be had

My absolute guilty pleasure when booking a trip is the prep work. Having been lucky enough to road trip along east coast of the US a few times, when it comes to nailing an itinerary - I take it very seriously. After reading what feels like every trip advisor review and nerding out over the pocket Lonely Planet guide, and creating a Lisbon google map (told you it was srs business), I decided to make a shortlist of places to visit and simply see where the weekend took us.

With only two full days (one with a hangover may I add), we certainly discovered the city exploring on foot and soaking up the sunshine, however a few highlights worth noting were:

Santa Justa Lift

Quite simply, the Santa Justa lift is an elevator that takes you from one part of Lisbon to the next. Without the hard slog of walking up a very steep hill, the elevator has fast become a tourist attraction in it's own right. A sight to behold in it's self, it's gothic design is similar to that of the Eiffel tower. At a snip of 5 euros for a ticket, you can also access the lift's observation deck that has magnificent views of the city to take in! Then all that's left to do is explore your way back down the hill, stopping at the many bars below for refreshing aperol spritz in the open air bars.

Cinco Lounge cocktails workshop

What's a hen do without a lil drunken frivolity? Enter the Cinco Cocktail Lounge, seven girls, take out pizzas and a hella lot of tequila - and you've got yourself a recipe for a the perfect hen celebration.

With it's sleek dark velvet sofas and sophisticated interiors, this trendy cocktail bar plays host to mastering the art of cocktail making. Mixing up three to four delicious (yet bloody strong) cocktails, you've got the whole place to yourself as you order in pizza, make full use of the boomerang app and come to realise that you've been over pouring the rum all evening. What's not to love?

You can pre-book a masterclass by emailing the bar directly.

Tuk Tuk tour

What better way to see the city than a guided tour? Albeit not what I was expecting in a tuk tuk (having avoided those in London and NY) but in Lisbon, with the steep hills and winding roads, the six seater tuk tuks are a genius way to suss out the city. For €10 per person for an hour and a half, our tour guide whizzed us around the city talking us through the history of Lisbon before stopping off at different sight seeing points / instaworthy grams.

The nearest tuk tuks to us were parked up at Rossio Square.

Praça do Comércio

For a lazy long afternoon on Sunday before our flight, we headed over to the Praça do Comércio square that looks over the river Tagus. One of Lisbon's biggest plaza's, we took the opportunity to soak up the sunshine and people watch on the outdoor terrace of the beer museum.

Places to eat

On our first night we stumbled across the CR7 hotel which was a few doors down from our apartment. They served up a delicious trio of burger sliders, homemade bread with garlic butter and kept the wine flowing - all under €20 each - and nope, who knew Cristiano Ronaldo served up such delish burgers?

A slightly less - er - random but delightful discovery was the Pizzeria Mezzogiorno tucked away from the main road within an open air courtyard full of fresh bloom, we took shade from the sun on their patio under big umbrellas, then sipped bellinis, ate endless parma ham, burrata, bruschetta and pizza!

Top tips

Uber - if you're travelling to another part of the city and the trams are too full, you can rely on Uber to get you here and there. We took Ubers to and from our night out and it worked out as little as €3-4! With hills that steep, with the combo of heels, download the uber app fo' sure.

Super cheap - With the euro exchange rate seriously dire, I was still so surprised as how affordable it it is to eat and drink out in Lisbon. You can eat delicious food without being budget conscious, and enjoy a cold beer at a mere few euros. SOLD.

City Mapper app - The app that is otherwise affectionately known as my London bible, as soon as you touch down the City Mapper app will switch to Lisbon. Your guide to sussing out how to get anywhere, with tram and subway journeys listed.

I've got a few more place on my list to visit when I return (next year hopefully) - any suggestions?

Wishlist: Anthro style sale picks

Sun, 18 Jun 2017 20:01:00 +0000

Well, would you look at that? As June gets the summer time memo, it's almost as if a switch flicks and BOOM, the high summer sales starts and then, BAM! all hell breaks loose with my debit card. Sorry not sorry bank account.

One place that's often overlooked when it comes to sale snips is Anthropologie. And whilst I'm first in line to snap up all their winter interior goodies in the new year sale, it's their style section that's really where it's at.

Their jewellery, whilst yes admittedly on the pricier side, is a treasure trove of gems and jewels just waiting to be discovered. I especially adore their earring sets and dainty gold pieces, but slightly out of my everyday budget - the sale make it a treat worth the splurge. Also thrown into the mix are a few fashion pieces, sometimes reduced from silly amounts to start with!

Astrid hoop earrings (£17.95) ∙ Tie front tank (£23.95) ∙ Bobby Pin Set (£21.95) ∙ Cold shoulder dress (£39.60) ∙ Earring set (£26.95) ∙ Ribbon Keychain (£9.95) ∙ Monogram Pearl Necklace (£21.95) ∙ Trinket dish (£7.95) ∙ Pinstripe blouse (£38.95) ∙ Starlet Earrings (£13.95) ∙ Peplum blouse (£39.95) ∙ Charm necklace (£33.95) ∙ Off the shoulder blouse (£33.95) ∙ Shimmered Monogram Necklace (£24.95) ∙ Turtle dish (£9.95) ∙ Gia hoop earrings (£16.95)

Have you overlooked Anthro's style section?

(the turtle dish had to make the edit, just because)

5 things: The reality of saving for a first home

Thu, 15 Jun 2017 06:20:00 +0000

I mean it's the twenty-something crisis right?

Fresh into my early 20's I was ready for the get-go in life after graduating with my top notch degree, then the doom 'n gloom of the middle twenty crisis happened where I was stuck in a dreadfully paid job and endlessly questioned myself if this what my life was going to be - and then, when my career slotted into place and everything seemed like it was plodding along, I decided to move on to the next task: buying my first home.

Here's five ways to beat the impossible:

1. You need to be realistic with yourself.

This is both literally and mentally.

It feels like we've been saving for a house forever. When in reality it's only been in the last year that we've really buckled down. In that time we've really accomplished a pretty darn chunky deposit that's growing steadily each month.

But after a pretty disappointing meeting with our bank advisor, we were knocked back by how little this would get us due to the crazy house prices in our area. It took a while - and a lot of whinging on my part - to get over the fact that we could buy a four bed house up north with the savings we already have, but have to settle for a flat down south. Grumble aside, whilst our forever home might be further off than expected, it's all about being realistic and not beating yourself up about it.

2. Be in the know.

With shit getting real, we decided to #adulttheshitoutoflife and set up a meeting with a financial advisor at our local bank. Turns out this was completely pointless and they were in no hurry to help unless we were ready to buy a mortgage. Le sigh.

Buying your first home is a minefield, navigating what is on offer (there are so many different government schemes on offer such as the Help to Buy ISA and part buy ownership), let alone how much you should be saving and what is within your reach. What you do need to do is throw yourself into the deep end and educate yourself.

I started with the handy online government guide that dishes all the need to know on everything help to buy, explaining all the nity gritty to weigh up your options. Then I unashamedly became Martin Lewis (yep, the tv guy behind Money Saving Expert) newest fangirl after reading his impartial guide to buying a home as first time buyer - it's actually genius.

3. Set a goal.

Whilst it's important not to pressure yourself, it makes sense to have a goal in mind. We have a savings tracker on the go, an understanding of what position we will be in this time next year and what the next step should be.

There's no rush, even though it feels like there should be. Buying your first home completely depends on what position you are in: Are you currently in the cycle of renting? Is a family member able to help you? Are you going it alone? Do you live at home?

Above all it may just take a little longer in certain cases - but that's ok. I personally live at home, and whilst I may not be handed everything on a plate, I am in the best position to save.

4. Ignore everyone.

Whilst my friends back home are navigating their next step on the housing ladder and probably questioning all my life choices, my London friends laugh at the very thought of having a mortgage. The best bet is to ignore everyone. Unless of course when they are offering you sound advice. Comparison is the thief of joy: you should neither feel guilty for lack of not having a house or even wanting one.

5. It's not the be all and end all.

This is something I regularly have to tell myself. I will buy my first home next year, but in the mean time there are other things on my agenda too - which are just as important. Like pinning my dream house on Pinterest, yup.

The Lust List: 20% off & Other Stories

Sun, 14 May 2017 17:11:00 +0000

Confession time: I have been living under a right ol' big rock but I'll put my hands right up in the air and say it super quick - & Other Stories has never been on my radar. It's always been a bit 'out there', too pricey for me and I've never clocked anything IRL.

But stepping into the store just off Regent Street, I found myself nearly late for brunch as I was snooping so hard. And i'm never late for food reservations. Uh huh.

When my girl Jess got over the initial horror of my ignorance, she let me in on a 20% off code that has had me refilling my basket like no tomorrow - and digging out my hidden credit card.

Browse my hot-list here and shop with the code SXD20 - valid until the 21st May.

Pleated midi skirt (£55) ∙ Off the shoulder blouse (£39) ∙Grey buckle heels (£69)

Red dress (£95) ∙ Star hoops (£12) ∙ Almond block heels (£55)

Straw basket (£45) ∙ Nude strap heels (£65) ∙ Print dress (£95)

Cross front dress (£65) ∙ Red heels (£69) ∙ Bar earrings (£7)

(I NEED THIS OUTFIT IN MY LIFE)

Stripe sweater (£39) ∙ Star long necklace (£17) ∙ Silk camisole (£39)

Embroidered blouse (£45) ∙ Frilled blouse (£39)

Fringe dress (£79) ∙ Pink leather espadrilles (£65) ∙ Star back earrings (£12)

Grey t-shirt (£19) ∙ Red swimsuit (£45) ∙ Geometric hoops (£17)

Blue scalloped blouse (£39) ∙ White scalloped blouse (£39)

Embroidery top (£45) ∙ Frill skirt (£39) ∙ Straw clutch (£35) ∙ Gold sandals (£65)

Frill swimsuit (£45) ∙ Frill bikini bottom (£19) ∙ Frill bikini bikini top (£25)

A line cotton dress (£55)

Striped bikini top (£19) ∙ Striped bikini bottoms (£17) ∙ Embroidery dress (£69)

I'll take it all then kay?

Style: Throwing it back '70s style

Mon, 01 May 2017 09:05:00 +0000

Suede Sandals - Topshop (£52.00)

That spending ban that I kept banging on about it? Nailed it. If you excuse the multiple Pret choc bars here and there, oh and these Topshop suede '70s style heels.

When the 20% student discount hit my inbox, I said a quick prayer to my brother for studying his masters - then the very next day they were mine.

Something about a chucky wooden heel just gets me. Awaiting the warmer weather, I cannot wait to throw these on for a slightly dressier day-time look with denim or mixing it up on holiday for heels that are for once, easy to walk in.

Currently lusting after:

Style: The perfect stripe tee

Sun, 30 Apr 2017 11:35:00 +0000

T-shirt - ASOS (£12.00) ∙ Mid Rise Jeans - Zara ∙ (£39.99) Boots - Topshop

I feel like a bit of a tease writing this post, as the perfect stripe tee I'm banging on about is currently sold out. Great.

Having said that, it is from ASOS and when something is a corker of a best seller they tend to restock it.

ANYWAY - in short, you need this t-shirt. Yes I am full blast enabling you, but it's for your own good.

Why?

1) It's oversized in a good way. The sleeves and t-shirt length are little longer than most, meaning you can tuck it in nicely and it's super flattering on your arms - a major win for me.

2) It's striped, navy and white, no explanation needed. Must have staple.

3) It's cotton, super soft without being clingy or showing your bra. Double winner.

4) The white neck collar band makes it look way more spendy than the £12 price tag and it's a just a nice touch.

5) Did I mention it's twelve English pounds - yassss!

And whilst you wait for ASOS to get their stock situ under control, here are the other colour ways I'm diggin:

Style: 20 Topshop pieces that won't break the bank

Thu, 13 Apr 2017 06:00:00 +0000

I'm a Topshop girl through and though. I'm no stranger to stalking their 'new in' page on the daily whilst scoffing down my breakfast in the early morning rush.

However, out of nowhere - like a bat out of hell - their prices soared. Um what? No thank you. Unlike Zara where you can indulge in the season's newest trends without emptying your account, Topshop is a right bugger for overcharging for no reason. Their knitwear? Case in point.

I've come to notice them a few style snips sneaking on to the website. Ones that don't exactly break the bank, but are a nice treat come payday. And as sharing is indeed caring, here are my top 20 currently tickling my fancy / enabling me to break my spending ban...

Floral blouse - £36.00 ∙ Silver pointed flats - £22.00 ∙ Structured bardot top - £32.00

Denim shorts - £26.00 ∙ Bag - £32.00 ∙ Grey sandals - £26.00

Ballet flats - £16.00 ∙ Lilac bag - £29.00 ∙ Broderie sleeve t-shirt - £24.00 ∙ Point shoes - £29.00

Stripe shorts - £26.00 ∙ Stripe top - £22.00 ∙ Bardot dress - £29.00 ∙ Scoop neck t-shirt - £10.00

One shoulder dress - £29.00 ∙ Pink trainers - £24.00 ∙ Lipstick - £8.00

Leopard print sandals - £26.00 ∙ Embroidered shirt - £29.00 ∙ Nail varnish - £6.00

How on point is Topshop's shoe game huh? Those sandals are a snip at £26!

5 Things Friday: Spring hotlist

Fri, 07 Apr 2017 08:09:00 +0000

It's official - I've ditched my heavy cream coat and I have whipped out my light weight grey suede biker jacket, spring has arrived. Whilst the spending ban is still in full force (7 days proud), I've made a spendy list of what's on my to-buy list for May, the month of a sunshine filled weekend getaway. In the mean time here are on my top 5 spring hotlist:

1. Delicate is the new statement.

Minetta is a jewellery brand I want to shout about from the rooftops, whilst keeping their delicate and dainty collection all wrapped up to myself. From their initial stamped necklaces to their dainty gold plated bracelets, I've fallen head over heels for - well, everything. Whilst I've got my eye the majority of their collection, the curved bar bracelet has been adorning my wrist pretty much since it arrived in the post. Major heart eyed emoji.

2. I've found the one to rule them all.

Essie gel nail varnishes, where have you been all my life? The most long lasting polish I have ever used - for real, it's a dream. Check out the shade Spool Me Over.

3. Finding my inner, inner core.

Pilates is a fitness class I can't wrap my head around. Because I don't sweat like the beast I do in my cardio classes, is it really a work out? Sure I get to zone out for an entire blissful hour and appreciate my pedicure, will I see any benefit? At the moment I'm just crippled by the fear. *TMI warning*

The fear of farting whilst your ass is sky high.

4. Can we all please take a moment

...to appreciate how beautiful this Topshop lace top is?

Now let us all roll our eyes in unison at Topshop who insist on making everything cropped. Nah pal.

5. A new discovery

If like me you wear glasses, you know what a ball ache the sunshine is. I take that back, you know I didn't mean it. But really, the constant squinting. The realisation that if you want to save your forehead lines, you accept that you must be prepared to go blind in a pair of stylish sunglasses. OR you can snap up a cheap as chips pair of prescription sunglasses from Toy Shades.

After a work pal recommended the brand to me last year, I picked up a pair of rip off aviator sunnies for £40 with my prescription and they have been a staple since.

The Lust List: 30 must-have accessories from H&M

Mon, 03 Apr 2017 06:30:00 +0000

So whilst I may be only day three into my spending ban, that does not prevent me from 1) enabling you 2) online 'window' shopping.

Excuses over - let's talk my top 30 must-have accessories from the high-street hero that is H&M. A place I often overlook (mainly because cba with those racks), but online it's another story. Offering up quite the premium range with suede handbags, polarised sunnies and gold plated jewellery, their accessories game is majorly on point for spring.

With the trend for luxury so hyped at the mo, it's pushing me to the reverse. Sussing out arm candy that won't break my house savings, the pink powdered suede bag with gold detailing is the perfect addition for the gazillion weddings I have this summer. Thank you please.

Knot bangle - £5.99 ∙ Pink glittery heels - £24.99 ∙ Pink sunglasses - £6.99

Grey belt - £4.99 ∙ Suede pink bag - £39.99 ∙ Hoop earrings - £5.99

Cream suede bag - £24.99 ∙ Oval hair clip - £3.99 ∙ Belt - £12.99

Red heels - £17.99 ∙ Rose gold shopper - £17.99 ∙ Hair grips - £1.99

Suede navy bag - £24.99 ∙ Printed sunglasses - £6.99 ∙ Suede pink heels - £39.99

Powder pink shopper - £17.99 ∙ Silver belt - £4.99 ∙ Hoop earrings - £4.99 ∙ Ruffle flats - £17.99

Grey heels - £17.99 ∙ Leopard print bag - £8.99 ∙ Gold plated bracelet - £12.99 ∙ Necklaces duo - £5.99

Coral suede bag - £24.99 ∙ Silver shopper - £17.99 ∙ Tortoise shell sunglasses - £34.99

Hair clips - £4.99 ∙ Gold plated necklace - £17.99 ∙ Pastel pink sunglasses - £34.99 ∙ Grey shoulder bag - £19.99

5 Things Friday: The perfectly pink flats

Fri, 31 Mar 2017 05:30:00 +0000

Coat - Zara ∙ Bag - Topshop ∙ Scarf - Warehouse ∙ Breton - Boden ∙ Flats - Accessorize ∙ Jeans - Zara

In a bid to share more 'me' on this little space of the internet, I'm bringing back 5 things Friday. Oh yass. Being immersed in the world of social media and influencer marketing career-wise, I somehow forget that I *actually* have a blog. And that's something that I wanna change, so here goes...

1. First and foremost, the pink pointed flats I shared over on my insta.

Pastel pink perfection, of which pairs perfectly with my Zara rough hemmed jeans. Where from? You'll never guess. Accessorize. Uh huh right?! They have seriously upped their shoe game. A snip at £29, sure they'll murder your feet, but so worth it.

2. This new-in Topshop dress is currently sitting in my wardrobe (see below).

It's navy (winner), it has a dinky star print (double win), but it's a midi dress length. Otherwise known as slicing me in half length. Should I whip off a chunk and make it into a mini?

3. Which leads me nicely into the fact that this month is going to be known as: MEGA SPENDING BAN ENFORCEMENT.

April is all about #adultingtheshitoutoflife and saving my bucks for the flippin' 6760786 weddings and hen do's that are lined up this year. Not even mentioning the never ending house savings. This year was honestly like a light switched - pow! - you are now officially grown up, now cough up.

4. Whilst I plan to fill you in good and proper with a health and well-being update - (hold on to your seats kids).

I'm finally feeling back in the game and ready to hit the gym. Throwing myself in the deep-end with weeknight circuits - sweet mother of god preserve me - and pilates classes, I am determined to find my inner core, however deep down it might be hiding.

5. It's official, I suck at posing in outfit snaps.

You may have noticed. But you know who masters them every damn day and has shared her all top tips in a handy blog post? Deborah. Go read her post. I've been making notes and really trying to suss out how to change the depth of field on my camera - whatever that is. Next go follow her on insta, she's one of the best 'real' bloggers out there.

Beauty Talk: My Charlotte Tilbury Collection

Sun, 19 Mar 2017 20:10:00 +0000

Remember way back when I was literally too excited to function (but managed to pen a blog post) when Charlotte Tilbury sent me her new collection? Yeah, I still can't believe that either. But I'm back with the next instalment on the other CT goodies in my stash. That fancy gold packaging has me hook, line and sinker - here's a round up what you need stat, and what you can kindly look over.

Airbrush Flawless Finish Powder

When I avidly read that Sam Chapman (Pixiwoo) was a dedicated fan of the flawless finish face powder, that's when I knew needed in.

It's light, it's breathable, slightly overpriced - but it simply does wonders to blur and mattify. In short, it's perfect for finishing off your morning routine.

Not quite handbag friendly, what grates on me is the super luxe packaging is never not marked with finger prints. It's like the never clean Nars packaging all over again. Meh.

Magic Foundation

Normally flirting between a tinted moisturiser or something a little fancier like Armani luminous silk, the Magic foundation is heavier. It smacks you right in the face with full coverage, yes - it blurs and covers imperfections - but you look dull, flat and lifeless. Eurgh.

Not velvety soft matte, nope, nada - just dull. I'm currently mixing in my precious liquid Becca highlighter with every dollop.

Filmstar Bronze and Glow

Perhaps the most expensive item in my stash - the Tom Ford doesn't count as that was (duty) free - and the CT Filmstar compact was worth every buck. I honestly dread the day I hit pan. Dramatic, I know. A sleek compact that is home to a very cool toned bronzer (no glitter here people) to sculpt and slim, joined by a soft and buttery highlighter that offers that's that candle-lit glow in real life.

It's a subtle boost on a no-makeup makeup day, it's the added cheekbones and luminous glow for an occasion worth dressing up for. And what's more? It's idiot proof. I can take a large powder brush in the bronzer for a healthy complexion or embrace my inner super model cheekbones with an angled contour brush. If you haven't tried it, you need to.

Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk

The 'your lips but better shade' in lipliner form. The hype for this modern day liner has been so intriguing and I can thankfully report back that this lip cheat does certainly that. You can ever so slightly enhance the shape of your lip line to look fuller. In a way that Kardashian wouldn't know how.

Sexy Sienna Lipstick

You know you have have the best bunch of friends when they surprise you with a CT lipstick in the post on your birthday. Sexy Sienna is one of the 16 celeb inspired shades in Charlotte's Hot Lips collection. Named after the beauty that is Sienna Millar, this golden coral shade is calling out for summer days and it can't come soon enough. Major props to the square tipped shape that makes application a dream.

Mini Lipstick Charms

Every Christmas, Charlotte brings out a dinky little lipstick gift that features three of her most popular shades. Whether you're a lipstick newbie (this is a great way to suss out shades that suit you) or you are lipstick junkie, they are perfect for slipping into your handbag - and really, who could resist the temptation of miniature lipstick? Major swoon.

Eyelash Curler

Ah, the famed golden eyelash curlers that were sold out long enough for me to obsess over them and decide that I most definitely needed them in my life. How do they fare? Couldn't tell you. I simply never remember to use them. They do look super pretty on my dresser however.

Tell me - what should I try next?

Style: Feeling shirty

Fri, 03 Mar 2017 08:53:00 +0000

Shirt - Next ∙ Jeans - Zara ∙ Flats - J.Crew ∙ Bag - Whistles

There's a new trend on the block - and it's one I can totally get behind. Say hello to the blue ruffled shirt. Conquering that awkward transitional in-between season palaver. And making you look effortlessly sophisticated at the same time.

WINNING.

Really, this is me pretending to be trendy. Springing into next season a little early, when I stumbled across this frilly but flirty blue shirt months back I knew it would be just the pick me up my wardrobe needed.

It was a snip at £28 (impressive), super comfortable (standard), needs next to no ironing (dreamy) and it was from none other than from Next. Uhuh, you read correctly.

Paired with my trusty Zara skinnys (as per) and my painful but oh so pretty J Crew flats, a slick of Bobbi Brown lippie - it's fail safe.

The Lust List: Spring dreaming

Mon, 13 Feb 2017 08:00:00 +0000

Technically I promised my next post would be the second instalment of Charlotte Tilbury must-haves. And then - well truth be told - last week was pretty shitty. The weather is never ending god awful, I injured myself in the gym (clearly death is more on my agenda than being skinny) and then I spent the entire weekend eBaying my life away - this calls for retail therapy stat / slash adding items to my pretend online baskets.

Star & Moon bracelet - Estella Bartlett ∙ Silk floral dress - Zara ∙ Mini Lily - Mulberry

Gingham top - New Look ∙ Red mini bag - M&S ∙ Bow pointed flats - Accessorize ∙ Flounce jumper - Zara

Pink coat - Mango ∙ Floral blouse - Zara ∙ Lightening bolt t-shirt - Hush ∙ Lilac bag - Topshop ∙ Pink flared jumper - Zara ∙ Flute sleeve jumper - Mango

Funnel jumper - Miss Selfridge ∙ Star t-shirt - Hush ∙ Jeans - Zara ∙ Striped top - Warehouse ∙ Coral bag - M&S

Lace top - Miss Selfridge ∙ Pink heels - Topshop ∙ Pink blouse - Topshop ∙ Skirt - River Island ∙ Scarf - Zara

Coat - Zara ∙ Top - New Look ∙ Heels - Miss Selfridge

Yadda yadda, I'm having a pity party right now - but seriously, I need to up my eBaying front to get that mini Mulberry in my wardrobe.

Beauty Talk: Charlotte Tilbury Collection Part 1

Sun, 29 Jan 2017 17:33:00 +0000

It goes a little like this: when a package of Charlotte Tilbury landed on my doorstep jam-packed with goodies from her new collection, I gasped, screamed in excitement and have pretty much been mouthing 'ME?' under my breath ever since. That and slapping it on my face of course.

After giving both the Instant Look in a Palette and the Quick 'n Easy Kit a full rundown over the last month, it was high time I shared the love...

Instant Look in a Palette - Seductive Beauty

Next in the palette pipeline was a seductive, smokey version of the Instant Look in a Palette. Housed in a sleek burgundy compact, the perfect size for traveling or handbag stashing for desk to dinner plans, it contains 3 shadows, 2 blushes, a bronzer and a highlighter.

When it comes to all-in-one palettes, I've been left feeling pretty irked in the past. The quality is never up to par and there is always a dud shade that makes your eyes roll back so far into your head, you question yourself, your life and the brand.

On price alone, this palette is a savvy little way to get in on the Charlotte Tilbury action - and just look at the the bronzer, blushes and highlight - THIS is what hit the excitement levels for me.

Firstly the bronzer, what a dream. More pigmented than the likes of my Nars Laguna, it's a buttery soft matte powder that gives a good boost of tan, which looks natural and pretty effortless. No muddy streaks to report here thank you.

It's worth noting that surprisingly Tilbury doesn't have a run of the mill bronzer in her wider collection, but if she were to launch the palette bronzer in her collection, I would snap it up in an instant. That's a testament to how freaking impressed I was.

The highlighter I'm pleased to report is very similar to the iconic shade in her Filmstar Bronze & Glow kit, although this is slightly peachier in shade. The formula is so light without being stark (looking at you Becca), I take a large fluffy shadow brush and sweep it across the top of my cheekbones for a subtle day-time appropriate glow.

The blush shades pack a delightful punch, one to swish and one to add a pop. They both revived my lacklustre skin with an instant zing and refresh. Full marks from me.

Finally onto the shadows - again very buttery soft (similar to the likes of Urban Decay) and easy to blend. It is worth noting however that they are cool toned shades, which is great if thats your thing but as I prefer to warmer tones, I dotted the champagne shade in my inner corner for a poppin' glow.

Buy it: if you want a handy blush, bronzer and highlighter combo palette - perfect for everyday or travelling. This will be tucked away in my make-up bag on all my adventures this year.

Quick 'n Easy kit - Red Carpet Party

Before we dash onto how much this red lipstick is an absolute beauty - can we appreciate a) the hella savvy price point of the kits b) the snazzy little bag that answers all my travel dreams.

Tucked inside were all the essentials for a Red Carpet Party. And whilst I may not receive many er invites for parties of such nature, I pretty much swooned hard over the red lip duo. Having sussed out this handy tutorial on the Tilbury website, I had a good go at recreating the look.

Wonderglow highlighter, I'm on the fence here. Described as a highlighter to create that 'soft focus look' - I'mma fess up and say I found it to be glittery if worn under foundation. Preferring my pores not to sparkle, I choose to pat it on after my makeup application for a softer, more contained glow.

The Rock 'n Kohl liner in Barbarella Brown is everything a kohl pencil should be. A softer alternative to a black liner, this is super easy to apply (it glides like a gel), smudges if preferred or drawn neatly to create a flick. Nicely done CT.

A massive fan of the Tilbury Lip Cheat pencils already, this was no exception. Effortless to apply when wearing a bright lip, they are a godsend at keeping everything in place and um basically it's like colouring in the lines. Worn with or without the lipstick, this shade Kiss 'N Tell was soft enough to line the entire lip and lasted a good chunk of the day.

Paired with the Matte Revelation lippie in Red Carpet Red, I am smitten. You can see me rocking the shade here and loving life. It's the easiest shade of red I have in my collection, wearable without looking too try hard. Also, notice the shape of the lipstick? Makes application a dream if you are monstrously cack-handed like I am. WINNER!

Buy it: if you wanna give a range of Charlotte Tilbury items a whirl - especially if it's pay day and you fancy / deserve a treat.

Sorry not sorry if you're feeling enabled but I'm a fan girl through and though. Stay tuned this week as I will be sharing some of my other Charlotte Tilbury faves - turns out I actually have enough bits to be deemed a collection.

Now excuse me, I'm off to campaign to get the bronzer made into a stand alone product - pretty please?