Monday, 30 September 2013

But I'm Just Gonna Let Something Brand New Happen To Me...

Beauty Favourite - September!!


Hey everyone!!
Hope you're all well!!
I'm back again!!
You literally can't get rid of me lately and why would you want to - don't answer that...
Anyway...
I'm back again with another reoccurring blog post - Beauty Favourite.
I suppose really I should use the word 'reoccurring' very loosely, as I only started this back in July and I forgot to do one last month. 
Oops!!
Now this month’s beauty favourite is something I've been using for a while now and I don't know what I would do without it. As you guys know my Mum used to get Avon through work, so whenever she brought a catalogue home I would tear through it. Round about the time she brought home the latest catalogue (at that time); I was kind of sick of wearing blusher and wanted something different. I was having a flick through when I saw these illuminating face pearls. Now I've always noticed these in the catalogue, but the £9 price tag has always stopped me from purchasing them. Fortunately this time round they were on special offer for £5! I couldn't believe it! I immediately added them to the list and before I knew it - they had arrived. (I actually talk about these in the last haul video I did here). I didn't quite know what to expect from these face pearls - in fact, I wasn't even sure how to use them. On the first day I used the face pearls; I grabbed my powder brush and started dusting them over my cheekbones. Before long I saw an instant difference to my overall complexion. The face pearls had not only given me shimmering colour, but at the same time, had given me a bronzed effect and given my cheeks some definition. Now I am famous for my chubby cheeks (not so much anymore - finally getting rid of them); so when this product instantly made me look less like a chipmunk I was thrilled. For £5 (at the time); this product is a bargain for all its capabilities. I use the face pearls everyday (well the days I wear make up) and I am in love with this product. I will admit there are days where I do put a bit more on then I should; but thankfully my hair covers that. I've been using this product non stop for two months (practically) and it's as if I've never used them. This is a product that I will definitely be repurchasing when I start to run out - if that ever happens. Even at the original price tag of £9, you're purchasing a good quality product that will last forever (within reason).
If you're fed up of looking like Truly Scrumptious - definitely go for the face pearls!!
B x

Sunday, 29 September 2013

It Was Love At First Sight, This Saturday...

Things I Love - September!!


Hi everyone!!
Hope you're all well!!
As you can see I've decided to bring back another of my regular posts - Things I Love!
Now as you guys know, the Things I Love post is about something in particular that I have bought in the past month and I am now obsessed with. 
This month is no exception!!
I know these boots don't look very exciting; but O M G these are the most comfortable footwear I have ever own. If a pair of slippers and a pair of boots had a baby - these would be their offspring. I've had my eye on these boots for absolute ages, but I kept telling myself I didn't need another pair of boots - yeah, that didn't last too long. In the same week, New Look had sent me two discount codes that both had to be used on the Saturday (beginning of September). On that particular Saturday, I had come back from a really enjoyable day out and decided to treat myself. I tried out both codes to see which one would give me the most money off; I stuck with the 20% one and continued with the purchase. Unfortunately (for some reason) the code stopped working and I could no longer use them. By this point I was questioning whether to get them or not. On the one hand I wanted them, but did I really want to pay about £24 (with P&P) on a pair of boots?? I was already set on having these in my life, so I decided to look at ASOS to see if they had them on there. The best part of ASOS is the free delivery and I knew if I found them on there - they would be mine. I was scrolling through and as if by magic they appeared! I clicked on them and when I saw my size in stock - my mind was made up. If I had bought them on the New Look website with the discount code (plus P&P); I would have only saved 5p in total - that helped justify my purchase. I was so excited when these arrived, as I had SO many outfits planned with these lovelies. This is probably the part where I should mention a flaw or two. Now I know I'm in love with these, but they do have two flaws. The first is they're big - I don't mean a little bit big, I mean quite a bit big. If it wasn't for slipper socks, these boots would have gone straight back. Although it is a flaw, the fact that they are big makes them more comfortable. The second flaw is, my slipper socks peep out. Now I know that sounds silly, but when you're wearing purple slipper socks it doesn't look that good. Thankfully it worked for Loud Tate, but for now on I think I'll stick to wearing them with trousers. I have lasted endless days (including Loud Tate) in them and they honestly don't hurt. Unlike some of my other boots (Alexxy, Adonis2, Dr Martens - my April's are getting worn in); these don't shred my feet to pieces. For £19.99 you are paying for a good pair of black ankle boots, that will last you through from autumn - spring (maybe summer if you wear boots in summer). 
I am so glad that I took the plunge and purchased these; because I absolutely love them and I hope New Look bring them back every year!!
 B x

'Cause Here Comes That Familiar Feeling, That Friday's Famous For...

Hat - New Look
Top - Primark
Skirt - Oasis
Jacket - Berty & Gerty Vintage (ASOS Marketplace)
Shoes - Topshop
Bag - Primark (I think)
Jewellery - Primark / New Look & Forever 21
Hey everyone!!
Hope you're all well!!
I've certainly had an interesting week!!
Between work and my eventful day on Friday, I can honestly say I haven't been bored!
Some days were more eventful than I planned it to be; but if it keeps me busy then I can't complain.
I think it's been a crazy couple of weeks...
Anyway...
This was me on Friday when I came back from spending the afternoon with FASHTAG.
Now on Wednesday while I was waiting (I'm always waiting), I decided to have a look on Twitter (as you do) and stumbled upon a tweet. It was from FASHTAG, asking if any London based girls, vloggers or bloggers would like to get involved with a video. Immediately I copied the email address and emailed them straight away. I have been a fan of FASHTAG ever since they launched and I’m an avid viewer of their videos. So when there was an opportunity to be a part of it - I jumped! Now I won't go in to it too much, as I'm going to do a post about my day. Let's just say it was a fun afternoon and THANK YOU SO MUCH FASHTAG for letting me be a part of one of your videos. It was an experience I will never forget and who knows - maybe we could do it again sometime??
To the outfit...
Now as you can tell I'm my usual colourful self!!
I don't know what it is about me; but whenever I decide to wear colour - I always change my mind. Seen as I was going to meet FASHTAG, I wanted to dress a bit more stylish than I usually do. I paired together this black crop from Primark with my Oasis Amelia skirt. This is a style that I've always wanted to try; but as usual I never have the right components. Fortunately I remembered I had this crop top from ages ago and have never worn it. I like the way it sits just about the waistband and the mix of jersey and pleather. This outfit doesn't look very exciting, so I added my new Primark necklace that cost me a £1 – BARGAIN!! I think the necklace instantly adds something extra to this outfit and I paired it with another new item - my selfie hat. There is something cool about a slogan hat! I know that’s such a dorky thing to say, but I just think they had something extra to an outfit. This number is from New Look and I picked it up last week while running errands for Loud Tate. It cost £6.99 and I've been wearing it non stop ever since. You can't go wrong with a slogan beanie and an all black outfit - well, to me you can't!
Stay tuned for a post filled with every little detail about my afternoon at FASHTAG.
I still can't quite believe it!!
Someone pinch me!!
Ok, maybe not...
B x

Wednesday, 25 September 2013

And I Sure Would Like Some Sweet Company...

Me and Harriet!!
With Leanne Woodfull!!
(From left to right) Me, Corneille, Leanne, Charlie and Jen!!


Hey everyone!!
Hope you're all well!!
I had such a busy day on Saturday; but it is without doubt one of the most fun days I've had in a while. Now I don't know if you guys remember, but in my last ootd post I mentioned a meeting with Leanne Woodfull. I didn't mention what the meeting was about, but if you're a follower of Leanne herself then I'm guessing you would know. Yes, LoudTate!! The annual event at Tate Britain that is aimed predominantly at 15 - 24 year olds, to introduce young people to art within the Tate. With planning an event this big we have to go back a good few months. At one of the first Tate meetings I attended (after losing interest for a while); I had this idea for a workshop. My initial idea was for a fashion show inspired by the works of art in Tate Britain. After some deliberating, I decided to pitch my idea to the rest of the Tate Collectives. The idea went down well and the development started. After a few meetings, my idea was changed completely in to something I hated. I have to admit I was annoyed by this and didn't understand why. Thankfully by the next Loud Tate meeting, my idea had changed yet again - this time, for the good. The final evolution of my idea was - we would pick 4 pictures from the collection (in Tate), we would then set up 4 racks of clothing that correspond to a particular picture. You would be able to pick which photo you would want to dress up as and then you get your photo taken by a professional photographer. It was such a fun idea and unlike anything that Tate has done before. We decided to get a fashion blogger involved to style the outfits and to drum up interest. I put forward LeanneWoodfull's name and I'm so glad that I did. Before I knew it, a meeting was being set up with Leanne and I was meeting one of my favourite YouTubers. Saturday arrived just on time and the long day awaited us. Charlie and I woke up early to get there for 10am (naturally we went via McDonalds). We arrived on time and headed to the auditorium for the main talk and for our rotas. On the Fash-tography workshop was Charlie, Corneille and I with Jen helping out. Before the security talk Charlie and I met up with Leanne and Jen and headed down for the talk. The security talk is the funniest thing ever. How this security guard doesn't have his own show, I will honestly never know. It was soon over with and the day was about to begin. I headed up to the workshop with Corneille and was amazed by what I found. It was crazy to see my idea turn in to reality right before my eyes. Over the next 5 hours I had one of the best times I've had in a long time. Leanne is such a down to earth person and I got to meet her Aunt and her Nan who are both lovely. I'm so thankful to Leanne for helping out and to Corneille, Charlie and Jen to help make my idea happen. Over the course of the day we each took it in turns to dress up, but it wasn't until the end when we all had our group shot. Saturday was an amazing day and to find out that my workshop was one of the most popular, is an amazing feeling. I've helped out at quite a few Loud Tate's, but this year's has to be my absolute favourite. Team Fash-tography is the best team I've ever worked with and who knows, maybe we could do a reunion soon.
If you feel as if you have a creative voice and want to be heard, then definitely check out Tate Collectives or any other youth forum at an institution. It's a great way to meet new people and immerse yourself in to an artistic world - whether you're artistic or not!
Loud Tate was an amazing day and I can't wait till next years...
B x

Monday, 23 September 2013

But It Sure Would Be Prettier With You...

Monthly Want - September!!
 

Hey everyone!!
Hope you're all well!!
Now I realise that I skipped last months Monthly Want, Beauty Favourite and Things I Love; but this month I'm bringing them all back again. Well, let’s hope I remember to bring them back…
Anyway...
How amazing are these shoes??
I don't know what it is lately; but I think I have developed an addiction for shoes. No longer am I drawn to designer (knock off) bags - although I still want a Chanel 2.55 bag. Shoes have become my new Achilles heel and I think I’m ok with that.  Now usually I'm drawn to black and gold (you can tell I'm a colourful person); but there is something about these shoes that I just love. They're not usually a shoe that I would be drawn to, but I REALLY want these!! The classic lace up shoe design with the cleated sole gives it a Dr Martens feel, (I've wanted a pair for donkeys) and it's a great knock off (or spin). I really like the pewter colour as it's different to the normal black and brown (or white if you're brave). The darker metallic colour definitely coincides with the grunge trend that’s everywhere this season. The chunky sole gives a masculine take to the otherwise feminine flat shoe. Also if you have a penchant for the brogue, this is definitely a good alternative and something new to try. These shoes will literally go with anything and everything. I can imagine these on a really cold winter day with a pair of skinny jeans, chunky knit jumper, parka, beanie and a tartan rucksack. If you have a tendency towards the girlier trends (pink is huge this season); then these shoes will be perfect with a winter floral dress and an oversized coat. Metallics are perfect all year round, so these will be your go to shoes even in the summer. These shoes remind me of the holiday season ahead of us. If you're not a fan of glamorous dresses and dressing up, these would be a nice alternative. You'll still have the glamorous effect but with your shoes instead. If you're like me and prefer basics, then these need to be a necessity in your wardrobes. I may have an obsession with black shoes, but I will definitely be adding some shine with this pair.
Now before you buy anymore, I dare you to look at these shoes and try not to want them...
Go on, I dare you!!
B x

Friday, 13 September 2013

London To Berlin, All The Way From Paris To Tallinn...

Top - River Island
Jumper - New Look
Trousers - Kelly Brook @ New Look
Coat - River Island
Shoes - Oki Kutsu
Bag - ASOS
Jewellery - H&M / New Look & Primark

Hey everyone!!
Hope you're all well!!
I've had quite an interesting two days...
With both starting at 6:30am (don't ask)
So as you can probably guess I am knackered!!
Thankfully 'Death Race' is helping distract me.
Anyway...
This was me yesterday after I came back from a very exciting meeting.
Now I initially woke up at 6:30am to go out for a few hours (I will elaborate on that at a later date); but mainly to keep myself occupied. I was finished by quarter to one and practically ran to the tube station. I hopped off the tube at Pimlico and headed over to the meeting. I got there early and was surrounded by school trips. Right, I don't know whether it was national school trips day or something; but they were EVERYWHERE!! I was slightly scared. After a sit down and a few phone calls to my Mum, I was met by Jen (social media guru) and one of my absolute favourite YouTubers EVER, Leanne Woodfull and her lovely friend Sarah. It was one of those surreal moments where I couldn't quite believe what was happening. When you're so used to watching someone on your computer or phone and especially when it's someone who inspires you, it's completely insane to have them standing in front of you. I honestly never thought I would meet any of my favourite bloggers or YouTubers, but if I had to choose someone to meet - it would definitely be Leanne. I think every blogger needs their own USP (unique selling point) and with Leanne, she is so unique with her love of Halloween, tattoos, signature Morticia inspired hair and of course - her classic individual style. Leanne is one of the many reasons why I started a blog and doing YouTube videos. I think at the point when I met Leanne and Sarah; I honestly turned in to a fan girl. I was just so shocked that I didn't quite know what to do or say. Eventually we met up with Carey (boss lady) and headed on an adventure to the meeting room. Have you ever tried to have a conversation while walking up many flights of stairs – it’s not easy! I think I managed to cope (well, what I would call coping) and before long we were at the meeting room. There were 5 of us in total and the meeting started. It went really well and was really overwhelming for me, as I've never been in anything like that before. I think everything was sorted and ready for the upcoming project. I won't reveal anymore as I'll let Leanne do it (and you'll probably listen to her more than me anyway). After the meeting I turned in to even more of a fan girl and gushed some more, but Sarah and Leanne are genuinely two really nice people. I can't wait to see them both again and this time I will try and restrain myself (that sounds worse then I meant it to be). I headed straight home afterwards and in fact by the time I got home, I felt as if I had never been out! It was a very busy day, but I enjoyed every minute of it.
To the outfit...
I was hoping to look effortlessly stylish, but with a hint of on trend yesterday. Unfortunately I had to be up at half 6, so comfort won that round. I wanted to wear my 'disco pants', as it had been a while since I last wore them and I didn't want to be head to toe in black (yes I do wear colour). Yesterday I came to the realisation that these trousers are a little bit big on the waistband. Now I don’t know whether to be happy about this or sad - I'll let you decide. I did originally choose a more fashion forward style top; but again I decided a plain tank top would be more comfortable. I teamed it up with a chunky jumper, plimsoles and my coat for warmth. The one good thing about this outfit is the coat, bag and jewellery (I think) gives it a more put together vibe then 'I literally couldn't be bothered to make an effort' one. If this is what I wear when I want to be comfortable, then maybe I should dress like this everyday.
I didn't quite realise how posy these photos are - it's the inner blogger in me wanting to get out.
If any of you haven't checked out Leanne Woodfull you definitely need to! You can follow her Blog, YouTube, Twitter, Tumblr, Facebook and Instagram - @LeanneWoodfull. And definitely check out Sarah too on Twitter and Instagram - @Surrrah_
I have filmed a video so that should hopefully be up on my channel tomorrow.
Until then - toodles!!
B x

Monday, 9 September 2013

As The Air Began To Cool, And The Sun Went Down...








A little inspiration for September!!
September has arrived!!
Yes its official - summer is finally over!
Although the hot endless days are no more, we can now look forward to my favourite season of the year - autumn.
Autumn is that magical season when the days grow shorter, the weather turns colder and the leaves turn brown and fall from the trees. It may not sound magical; but when you spend countless days walking through this picturesque season you'll soon fall in love. As an autumn baby myself, I've become accustomed to the unpredictable weather and the beauty that surrounds it. Now this time of year signals the time for new beginnings, whether it is school, college, university or perhaps a new job. September is the new time for resolutions and new chapters. (New Year is so overrated!!) For me September brings a new sense of hope and the start of something new (no I'm not referencing High School Musical). And naturally with a new start, a new wardrobe must accompany such a change. In my case, it's the same wardrobe as I had before. Yes ladies and gentlemen, I have decided not to buy anymore clothes! I know with a new season arriving and new set of fashion rules, the need to buy a new wardrobe is more apparent. But I am resisting the urge and adapting what I currently own to fit in with the new trends. It'll be a challenge and one that I look forward to taking on.
So whether you're starting a new chapter in your life or creating a new wardrobe, I wish you luck on the journey that lies ahead of you!!
Sometimes we all need a little bit of luck…
All images found on Tumblr:
B x

Friday, 6 September 2013

We'll Start With Raspberry Ice, And Then Some Cakes And Tea...

Tuesday 20th August - Duxford
Hairband - Forever 21
Top(s) - H&M & Primark
Trousers - Oasis
Shoes - New Look
Bag - New Look
Jewellery - Primark / New Look & Forever 21

Friday 30th August - Polesden Lacey
Hairband - Primark
Top - New Look
Skirt - Vero Moda
Jacket - Primark
Shoes - Primark
Bag - New Look
Jewellery - Primark / New Look & Forever 21
Sunnies - Forever 21

Wednesday 4th September - The Old Operating Theatre Museum
Hairband - Forever 21
Top - The Royal Opera House
Dungarees - ASOS Marketplace
Shoes - Vans
Bag - New Look
Jewellery - H&M / New Look & Forever 21
Hey everyone!!
I hope you're all well!!
I am so sorry that I have been away for 3 or 4 weeks now - I honestly don't know where the time went.
Between my Nan coming out of hospital, starting a new chapter in my life, dealing with work and spending as much time with my family as I can - I never have enough time to do anything else. I've also put blogging and YouTubeing on the back burner, but now I am back and ready to get started again. It also seems appropriate that today is the first day of New York Fashion Week.
Anyway...
This is a collected post of three family outings that I have been on over the past two weeks. 
The first was a trip to Duxford with my Dad, just over two weeks ago. I have wanted to visit Duxford for a few years now; but as it's a bit of a trek to get to I have never been. Thankfully a day was freed up for me and my Dad to go and visit Duxford. We arrived just before 10am (after a brief stop for food) and already there was a queue waiting outside. Soon enough we were inside and we headed straight to the Air Space. Walking in to the vast aircraft hanger surrounding by these huge flying machines was completely overwhelming. Just walking around these magnificent creations was amazing - to sum it up in one word. Whether its planes, tanks, trucks or historic artefacts, there is something for everyone at Duxford. I'm so glad I went and it was really fun spending time with my dad (the chips and sprinkle doughnut were just as good). Secondly was Polesden Lacey last week with Charlie. Now when we were younger, our Dad used to take us to a new National Trust place practically every Sunday. As Charlie and I are now older (and more expensive), we never have time to visit National Trust properties anymore. So when Charlie suggested we should visit Polesden Lacey - I couldn't refuse. We arrived at lunchtime to a very busy car park and headed straight to the restaurant. I have to say when it comes to food - they don't do normal. After trying some interesting tasting food, I ended up being happy with just a slice of cake. We headed straight to the house afterwards and it is so exquisite. Each room tells a story and sums up the lady of the house very well. My favourite room was the Saloon designed to match a c1700 Italian villa. The staff were very friendly and were willing to talk to you and ask your opinion on the house. The gardens were peaceful and vast, with views highlighting the splendours of Surrey. The gift shop helped sort out the problem of what to get my Dad for his birthday and also stationary (I don't know why I buy so much). It was a lovely day and I enjoyed spending time with Charlie before she headed back to work. Last (but not least) was The Old Operating Theatre Museum on Wednesday with my Dad. Wednesday was more then just an average day - it was my Dad's birthday! Usually in the past on my Dad's birthday I have started college or school, so with both of us having Wednesday free (my Mum was looking after my Nan and Charlie was at work) we decided to go to The Old Operating Theatre Museum. I have wanted to go for what feels like ages; but have never gotten round to going. Dad's birthday was a perfect time (and excuse) to go and visit. We arrived around late morning and were greeted by a narrow 32 step spiral staircase (this was the only way to get in or out). It is based in an old church and is quite a small place, but I think that's what gives it character. The main part is beautifully dark and beamed with curiosities everywhere. Big glass cabinets filled with bottles, pills, assortment of instruments and even human organs (and a skull). It's fascinating to walk around and discover things that you never knew before. The operating theatre itself is very small and stuffy (no wonder there was only a 1 in 3 chance of survival). When you’re walking around the theatre it makes you grateful for living in the 21st century. It was a nice and quirky museum and I definitely recommend giving it a visit. Afterwards, Dad and I wandered through Borough Market (via the pub) and then headed back home. The allotment and a little party round Nan's followed. Overall it was a nice day and Dad had a good birthday - that's all that matters.
To the outfit(s)...
For the first outfit I had absolutely no idea what to wear. The sun had decided to reappear after a few days of absence and I thought it would be colder then it actually was. I boiled in this outfit but at least it was summery for the weather. I have been living in jeggings at the moment, so I just paired it with a colourful baggy shirt and a floral headband. I added sandals for comfort (which is ironic as I got a blister) and neon jewellery for added colour. For the second outfit I wanted to dress up a bit more than I usually do. I pair a white cut out shoulder top with my Vero Moda netted skirt for maximum effect. I accessorised with a floral headband, neon jewellery, black slipper shoes and a denim jacket. With the big sunnies I felt very much like the hostess with the mostess. For the third outfit I knew I wanted to wear my dungarees, as the warm weather has come (and swiftly gone again). I chucked on my Royal Ballet t-shirt on underneath and my new pair of Authentic Vans Hi. I boiled in this outfit but it was perfect for going up and down that spiral staircase. Again I accessorised with a floral headband and a chunky gold chain for a bit of colour.
Sorry I've been so absent, but my heart hasn't been in it. But hopefully now I'm back to normal, I can start blogging again more regularly. 
I'll be back....
B x