Anika May: The Top 10 Posts of 2015

31 December 2015

I've been blogging for over a year now, but 2015 is the year I realised this is the job I want to do for the rest of my life. Anika May has had a broad range of posts, beginning as an OOTD blog and merging with my love of lifestyle posts. It's actually quite weird looking back and thinking: "Wait what? That was this year?!" Check out the 10 most popular posts from 01 January 2015 to today. 

My Blogging Goals for 2016

28 December 2015

2016 is only a few days away. It's crazy to think about how much has happened during 2015 and how much has changed. There's so much more I want to do with Anika May - bring on the new year!

Blogging Events: My Essentials

24 December 2015

blogger essentials, flatlay, blogger event, london, travel essentials, travel kit, emma bridgewater
When attending a blogging event, I learned plenty. A lot of tips were around how to improve my blog, increase my traffic and take better photos. One thing I managed to learn on my own, is exactly what to take, what I'll actually use an what I'll never use. 

Things I Love to Geek out Over

21 December 2015


I think in their own right, everyone has nerd moments about certain things. Whether it's all out fangirling or simply an inner squeal, it's always exciting.

How to Deal with Nosey People

18 December 2015

latte, coffee, talking, nosey, people, coffee shop, latte art, tumblr
They're everywhere. Family, friends and especially colleagues. I work in a pretty busy city, and in a very open office. Conversation flows from day to day, and as colleagues get to know each other, they begin to build an interest in the lives of others and that interest turns into a source for entertainment. Some people are naturally nosey, they can't help but feel the need to know anything and everything. On the other hand, some people are obnoxiously nosey, and drive me absolutely crazy.

Being a Grown Up: One Year On

15 December 2015

When I turned 18, I truly believed I had reached the definition of adult life even though I'd only just finished my A-levels and didn't even have a job. A year on from actually becoming a grown up, there's a few things I've learned.

Why I Like to Keep a Journal

8 December 2015


Diary, journal, feelings book - whatever you want to call it, an area where you can note down your thoughts and feelings isn't just for the youngsters. Keeping a journal is a really great way to keep your mind at ease and decrease the chances of anxiety attacks.

A Northern Girl Down South

5 December 2015

I recently travelled down to London to attend my first blogger event. Of course, while I was there I took hundreds of photos, unfortunately that would make the world's longest blog post. So I've chosen so of my favourites and created a mini gallery below!

The Secrets of Winter Style

30 November 2015

I hate the cold and the cold hates me. As a Northerner, enduring the colder temperature is nothing new. However, being cold is the most uncomfortable and demotivating state I think I can ever be in. The chillier weather makes me lazier, sleepier and encourages procrastination. I like the snow, but only when I’m inside. Some people get rosy red cheeks during this time of year, whereas I get head colds and dry skin. Walking around dressed as the Michelin Man all day isn’t always ideal – despite feeling like the only alternative to being wrapped in a duvet.

Luckily, one of the biggest winter trends is also the warmest trend to hit the runway: faux fur. And more specifically in coats. Faux fur has developed so much over time, from an itchy and irritating plastic mess to giving an insulating and cosy feeling. The greatest thing about faux fur is that it’s available for an affordable price and in so many different styles.

My favourite thing about the winter time are jumpers. There’s no going wrong with a jumper, it’s impossible to wear one incorrectly. Living in the North means it’s acceptable to wear jumpers all year round, and no one is surprised when the winter wools start appearing in August. I have a special fondness for oversized jumpers, they’re easy to hide and feel snug in while still being on-trend. Jumpers, or sweaters, make great layers to stay warm and the woollier the better.

Finally, hosiery. This little gem is always forgotten and underestimated. There are so many different ways to experiment with tights in particular, including leggings. In many high street stores, basic black tights of any denier are inexpensive and durable for the colder season. There are so many different designs used with tights and leggings, it’s impossible not to find one you’re drawn to. The great thing about the wintry season is being able to wrap up warm and cosy whether you’re inside or out; and the trends are always adaptable.

My Desert Island Movies

27 November 2015

The game "Desert Island" is very simple: you're stuck on a desert island for an infinite amount of time. You can only take a handful of items with you, however for today's post, all my items are DVDs. 

Next Blogger Network Event in Soho | #NBNevent

24 November 2015

I was recently invited to a blogger event by Next at the Soho Hotel in London. With a 4am start, the day was filled with fun, food and plenty of bloggers. Take a look below!

My New Phone + Giveaway!

20 November 2015

If you follow me on Twitter, you'll know I recently got rid of my no-good iPhone 5 and finally treated myself to an iPhone 6s. It's not often that I'll splash out on new technology, but when your phone is dying at 80%, I think it's time for an upgrade.

The Superstar Setting Spray

17 November 2015

Soho, London, UK
I work pretty long hours during the week and I often find that around halfway through the day my make-up doesn't look as great as it did when I initially applied it. This is most likely due to the huge amount of rushing around I do, as well as the weather conditions and the complete mess I make when eating. Looking for a setting spray online was quite difficult as there are so many to chose from and a lot of YouTubers or beauty gurus recommend sprays that are just too far out of my price range. 

this is how my week goes

15 November 2015

Eldwick, Bingley, Bingley, West Yorkshire BD16, UK
this is how my week goes
My style has evolved massively over the past year and that's fairly evident from my Polyvore page and choice of outfits. From the beginning of Anika May, I believed the crazier the better, the most I had going on in one look equalled the best I was going to look. As I've grown up, that's changed quite a bit, and although I tend stick to a simpler palette, I still like to make a look interesting.

Today is a Leggings Day

11 November 2015

Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
I've recently been trying to wear all the clothes in my closet. Not all at once obviously, but there are some items I just never seem to put on any more and I think it's time for this to change. After having an enormous dig through my bits and bats and cleaning out as much as possible, I managed to fill a charity bag and two shoe boxes (which I'll be using for the Shoebox Appeal). Alongside the pile of things to go away, was the pile of this to try on and wear more often - which is how I cam across a few items in today's look. 

What to Do When You're Uninspired

9 November 2015

The most obvious answer would be to: find inspiration; but there are plenty of ways to do this without it feeling like a burden.
Get online.
This is something I usual do without effort anyway, but one the ways I find inspiration in many forms is from other people. Social media such as Instagram and Tumblr are my favourites for finding the perfect photo or post idea. Likewise, Pinterest has the ability to create ideas and inspire in every category on the earth, from weddings to house interiors and workouts.
I have quite a lot of boards dedicated to fashion and style, as well as some of the other loves like beauty, TV shows and even food. All of a sudden, I could be scrolling through a feed and come up with an idea the exact moment I'm not expecting it. Social media is great for learning from others while getting to know new people simultaneously.

Brilliantly Bold

6 November 2015

Sometimes dressing in in a bold dress on a dull day is what you need. The weather is gloomy ad winter is setting in so why not throw on some heels, your favourite jewellery and act like you're a total diva?

Beat the Monday Blues

2 November 2015

It's very common to get a little down on Sunday evenings, I certainly do. This is for one reason: Monday is approaching. By Monday morning, I'm never that motivated even though I have plenty of energy following a fun-filled weekend. 

Style Crush: Chrissy Teigen

31 October 2015

Everyone adores Chrissy for her humble personality and relatable sense of humour. She also has an amazing sense of style making her the ultimate style crush.
I can't be the only one looking forward to Chrissy's future maternity style!
One thing I've noticed is that Chrissy has a really fun style that's always chic. She doesn't usually go out of her way to look good, and has the confidence to make every ensemble effortless. Chrissy's sense of style is likely to come from her amazing experience in fashion and great relationship with some of the world's biggest designers. She is a huge fan of dresses, and has a naturally feminine approach to chosing the gown for her. 
Whether it's a velvet red carpet or a New York stroll, Chrissy can easily rock the mini or full-length. The Sports Illustrated model has a marvellous figure, but will often be spotted wearing a pair of killer heels to elongate her legs and increase her level of sex appeal. I also think Chrissy's personality shines through in some of the pieces she wears. For example, at the Spike Guys Choice Awards in 2014, Chrissy wore this amazing bright yellow number by by Three Floor. The dress is short, fun and playful which matches Chrissy's bright nature and smile. 
Her outfits manage to remain chic and never fall short, making Chrissy one of my favourite style crushes to date.

Simple Stripes

28 October 2015

As a few of my reader may know, my mother has worked in the fashion industry her entire life. Being in that environment a few times has helped me to realise how much a simple look can go a long way. Sure, wacky and wonderful pieces are to being admired for creativity, but there's something like the simplest of styles that has always caught my eye, whether it's in the sewing room or on the catwalk. This dress has become one of my favourite pieces because it's complex but simple at the same time - if that's even possible. It's a basic A-line design, with no side seams or sleeves. The dress is cotton-jersey which is easily one of the most comfortable fabrics besides wool.
The blend of colours is what makes it stand out and they're contrasted in a stripe pattern which immediately catches the eye. The red, white and blue printed dress was one of my favourites while travelling around Oslo, and is the dress I'm wearing in my profile picture on this page. It also happens to be the dress I'm wearing on my Contact page - I really like this dress.
The best quality is that it's so easy to dress up or down and pair with many different colours. The use of primary colours makes the dress much more versatile. In today's look, which is quite light for the time of year, I opted to make the Primark piece the centre of my look, surrounding it with black. 
I love nothing more than a simple pattern - what's your favourite look?
Dress - Primark // Cardigan - F&F // Shoes - Evans // Bag - TK Maxx

The Perfect Movie Night

25 October 2015

There's nothing greater that to stay in and get cosy during Autumn. It's the perfect season to storm through your Netflix list or catch up on your favourite DVDs. An intimate night in is the perfect weekend idea and the best way to get together with friends and family for light-hearted fun. There are are a few essentials needed to make a movie night perfect:
The perfect TV
For a film night to be complete, you need something to watch the films on! The Panasonic Viera has recently caught my eye, mainly for the amazing 4K quality. I'm not as tech-savvy as I like to think, but when finding out about this 4K television, I knew it had the be included in my essentials. 4K resolution is a much higher quality than the standard HD most people settle with; plus, the idea of my future husband (Chris Evans) on a bigger and better screen is a win-win situation!
Snacks, snacks and more snacks
I couldn't imagine a movie night without a gallon of popcorn and a never-ending supply of sweets. Hot food is also a bonus for a great night in, the unhealthier the better. Pizzas and takeaways are the cheapest and quickest way to go without making too much of a mess. Autumn is the season for hot chocolate, and hundreds of mini marshmallows!
Little lights
As it gets a lot darker during this time of year, I always like to add a little splash of light the lift the mood during a film night. Fairy lights are ideal as they won't take away from the picture shown on the screen and will still create a great vibe and ambience in the room. I also adore candles (they're all I ever seem to talk about), so whenever I get an opportunity to light some Yankee Candles around the home, I jump at the chance. They'll also hide the greasy pizza scent that usually films the room.
Blankets and cosy cushions
For a cosy night in, the more blankets the better - bring a duvet if necessary. While the crazy cold breeze continues outside, a movie evening brings in the best warmth and any excuse to cuddle up in some faux fur. I love using massive cushions or beanbags to melt into and snuggle up in. They help to create a great atmosphere which is fundamental for a marathon of movies. 
Plenty of options
Sometimes it can be really difficult to find one film to watch that will satisfy everyone, that's why I always have a few alternatives up my sleeve or go for the all-out movie marathon. My little sister and I often plan ahead for what we'll watch. For a super girly night in, the classics are essential. However, no one ever says no to a little Disney all-nighter. Or if no one can decide, I'm perfectly happy to watch every Chris Evans film for the night.
Sunday evening is one of the best times to have a movie night before the big week of work ahead - let me know if you try it out at @itsanikamay
This post is in collaboration with Panasonic.

Why the Opinions of Others Shouldn't Bring You Down

21 October 2015

"How do you maintain such a care-free attitude?"

Getting here wasn't easy. There was no rainbow-filled road surrounded by sunshine and smiles, it took a few down days and plenty of eye-opening experiences to realise the only opinion that really matters is mine. If you've followed my blog for a while, you'll know I grew up as a painfully shy introvert surrounded by family and friends who were quite the opposite. I often found it very difficult to find someone to relate to, which made me feel more uncomfortable in my own skin.As time passed, my teenage years were not simple. Like most, there were amazing moments and areas I would rather forget. But each event has helped to shape the person I am today.

My personality hasn't changed, I still have the same sense of humour and traits, but my train of thought and mindset altered in a way that makes me much more confident. It's almost heart-warming to look back at how much I have come out of my shell... as narcissistic as that sounds. I understand not everyone is in my position, but over my nineteen years of life, there are a few tips I stick by that help keep my brain happy

Develop an attitude. A level of my confidence comes from my attitude, as in that weird teenage "I hate everything" attitude you develop from around fourteen onwards. There's a part of this outlook that really helps with ignoring the 'haters'. This doesn't mean you have to say anything, but it's all in your head. Get the brain in the right place, and the rest will follow. Having a strong attitude has helped me to gain a tough skin which is handy in the working world. If you have the right attitude to a poor opinion, it won't mean anything to you.

Don't compare. This will always be a no-no. I learned the hard way and it wasn't pleasant. Sometimes things other people say have no meaning or purpose. There are mean people everywhere, and sadly it's something that one person doesn't have the power to change.  Instead of repeating the harsh words over and over (because I know that's what you do), try and wipe them completely out of your mind by acknowledging the comment with pride and moving on.

Embrace it. I think part of the reason the opinion of others got to me was because I actually cared about their opinion. My mind instinctively became troubled at the idea of someone disliking me or finding something wrong with me - not the way to go. This tip goes hand in hand with having a confident attitude, as it's time for our generation to be selfish, but in a good way. Just think: "it doesn't actually matter"... or be super Sasha Fierce feisty and take it as a compliment. 

So, when another voice gets to you, what do you do? 

Why I Want to Travel the World

19 October 2015

There are plenty of people who dream of travelling from city to experience the most each has to offer; I am one of those people. After visiting Oslo earlier in the year, I've come to realise how much I have the "wanderlust fever" and have embraced a large need to explore.

There's just so much to see.

Every step of a journey is one I enjoy. From packing, to the ride to the airport - it's all extremely exiting. In 2013, I went to Paris on the Eurostar and would love to do it again before the end of the year. Paris is one of the greatest cities in the world and like New York City, manages to satisfy all my interests. They're fashion filled and contain plenty of amazing sites. Paris and New York are easily two of the most photogenic cities in the world, alongside Sydney, Marrakesh, Tokyo and Florence.

The list of places I wish to visit endless, and putting together a list of importance seems impossible. However, the reason I want to explore remains the same: to learn and to experience. Working in a busy city five days each week means I see the same scenes all the time. To look at something new or live in a different way, even for a short while, is stimulating and always impressive. 

Fashion has always been on of my biggest interests, so another reason to visit a new area is to take in the different kinds of street and designer style around the world. I love the idea of a new piece to my wardrobe, from a different culture or country to store as a cherished memory. A new favourite of mine is this Tokyo inspired Spiral rucksack*, kindly sent to me buy stylefruits.co.uk after I won their Insider's Tip competition back in September. The graphic print mimics the bright lights of Tokyo - one of the cities towards the top of my list. It's bright and colourful and makes the perfect carry-on.

There are hauls of items and accessories I couldn't live without while travelling; from my iPad (and Spotify) to my growing collection of notebooks and diaries. Bringing in another reason I want to travel the world: I get to buy stuff. Shopping is the best friend that never says no and I love shopping around in unfamiliar cities.

My plans to travel are in motion, which means saving every ounce of my wage and adding plenty to my Pinterest boards and Tumblr blog. What do you love about travelling?
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