spring
Next Spring 2017 Press Day
6 November 2016
Marylebone, London, UK
The lovely people at Next invited me down to London on 02
November to check out some of the pieces that will be features in the Spring
2017 collection, from Womenswear right through to the stunning Homeware range. Spending
a day in London is exciting as it is, but being able to have a sneak peak and
the newest trends is one sweet cherry on top. As I walked into One Marylebone,
the wide variety of clothing and
accessories immediately gave me a ‘jungle’ feel, as the shelves were decorated
with leaves, vibrant green plants and wooden crates. The room was lively,
perfect for spring.
Back to the Office
31 May 2016
Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK
I rarely wear skirts because I find it hard to pair them
with the right tops. However, my mum’s a designer so she was able to put
together this top and skirt combo to help provide the right silhouette and make
sure I’m comfortable. I’m really fussy with the waistband of skirts, simply
because they can instantly become unflattering if too high or too low (not
cool). Since receiving my amazing necklace from Wattney Kay about a year ago in
this
post, I have loved using it to brighten up a look – still one of my
favourite pieces of jewellery!
What is your favourite work week look?
Top – homemade // Skirt – homemade // Cardigan – New Look
(similar) // Necklace – Wattney Kay // Boots – Next // Bag – Topshop (only
available in red)
PS: hope you had an awesome bank holiday weekend!
That Khaki Coat
19 May 2016
Gilstead, Bingley, West Yorkshire
As you may know, I love a good coat. In my ‘Blue Marshmallow’
OOTD, I mentioned how much I really,
really like coats – and that’s still true. On occasion, I have to avoid the
coats and jackets section of a retail store because I know I have absolutely no
self-control when it comes to shopping; and that’s exactly how I found today’s item.
It’s a style that I’ve never really worn because I always believed extremely
long coats would make me look very Darth Vader-ish and that’s not what I’m
going for with my wardrobe. However, after trying it on, and completing a few
twirls, I fell in love with that khaki coat.
The colour isn’t one I’m normally drawn to because I
believed it would be difficult to find colours that wouldn’t clash with the
texture and shade. Nevertheless, I’ve discovered the complete opposite. There’s
actually quite a few items in my wardrobe that pair really well with this coat,
blue jeans being one of those items. Everyone has a pair of classic blue jeans,
no matter what the style. I chose the basic skinny jeans from New Look, but I
also see this coat going well with some lighter distressed boyfriend jeans and
looking very chic. I like to wear skinny jeans with my suede ankle boots (a
forever favourite) because they elongate my legs without being uncomfortable.
As I’m feeling quite down at the moment, and struggling to
focus on blogging (or just life in general), having a little gem like this coat
is slightly lifting my mood. The Limited Edition M&S coat was bought during
their recent spring sale and it was the very last one in store – which seems to
be the case for most items I buy. Sadly, I couldn’t find the coat online with
the product code as it’s been discontinued, but found a similar one linked
below! The khaki coat is acrylic, polyamide and elastane so is full of stretch
and extremely soft, it’s also a double breasted number, so I could pair it with
a full dress to create a super stylish evening look!
Coat – M&S (similar) // Top – River Island // Jeans –
New Look // Shoes – Next (similar) // Bag – Topshop (only available in red) //
Sunglasses - Next
Stila Cosmetics Face Haul
9 May 2016
Bingley, West Yorkshire, UK
There’s always one brand you go back to, no matter how much
you try to experiment with different products. For me, Stila has become that
brand. As the frugal person I am, spending money on makeup is one of my least
favourite activities (despite how much I enjoy owning it), but sometimes you
really have to splash out on a product that you love. I really like Stila’s eye
shadow palettes and liners, but their foundation and powders beat them all.
Stila
Stay All Day Foundation & Concealer - £29.50 (Shade: 06 Cocoa)
This foundation and concealer is absolutely perfect for the colder
weather and contouring. The foundation is faultlessly thick without being too
light and is very pigmented so there’s no need to go overboard with the amount
of product used. The foundation can be spread lightly because it is such a high
quality, and I don’t use a lot each time. I love that the foundation comes with
a mini concealer on the top, which is a lot thicker but still the same shade.
It works really well against the foundation and can even be layered on top. The
product really is Stay All Day as I
can apply it in the early hours of the morning before work and never have to
touch-up before going out in the evening – plus, it comes with its own brush.
Stila
Stay All Day Bronzer for Face & Body - £28.00 (Shade: Dark)
If I’m using a Stay All Day foundation I need the Stay All
Day bronzer right? Well, that’s my logic anyway. I have always been a fan of
Stila’s powder and bronzer range because they really help foundation to set and
stay in place and absorb oils and grease. I used to use the Stay
All Day Bronzing Powder (which is currently on sale for £9.00) but recently
started using the bronzer for face and body – and I just love it. The best
thing about the bronzer is the setting power, and that it doesn’t come off
easily. There’s nothing worse than finishing a base for makeup, and then
finding brown fingerprints all over my white walls and doors. The powder doesn’t
lift off easily, meaning less need for setting spray!
This foundation has become the perfect product for the
recent warm weather. If I’m ever going for a ‘no makeup’ makeup look, this
foundation is the one to use. It’s so lightweight, I often forget I’m wearing
any makeup. The light, bubbly texture is ideal for the summer or being in the
holiday heat. The foundation is a lot more hydrating that the Stay All Day foundation
and keeps my skin fresh and able to breathe. The foundation blends really well
with other concealers, and is an amazing base for powders. Like the rest of
Stila’s line, the product doesn’t come off the second you touch it, so I don’t have
to worry about waiting for it to set.
Have you tried any of Stila’s face products? Did you like them?
Let's Go to the Gym
6 April 2016
High Eldwick, Bingley, West Yorkshire
A year ago, I would never be seen at a gym. I always assumed gyms were for the super-fit, exercise enthusiasts. However, after one massive kick, and a spur-of-the-moment burst of motivation, I decided to try at least a whole hour one a few machines. Three hours later, I was loving every moment and decided the gym is my new favourite place. As much as I enjoy having a higher level of fitness and slowly losing weight, I also love shopping for gym gear and finding new outfits for each session. Activewear is just so much fun to shop for!
One of my favourite looks is this almost all-black outfit I wear when I have to walk to the gym. It's important for me to keep warm, as there's still a little snow on the ground; but I don't want to be wearing multiple layers because walking quickly will keep me heated. My leather jacket is a cold weather essential and an overall wardrobe must. The great thing about this faux leather piece is that it keeps you warm once you're warm - almost like a thermal. Because it's faux, the fabric is lightweight and easy to move in. The fur collar is a great accessory for this season too. I never carried a bag to the gym at first, but now that I've become more confident with going, I will shower and sometimes change into different clothes while there. This small but spacious Nike bag is absolutely perfect for me and holds just the right amount without becoming a burden.
I have never owned a pair of Vans shoes until a few weeks ago. They were immensely popular while I was in school, but never something that I was into. However, while doing my weekly browse at TK Maxx, I came across this pair in the men's section and knew I would never seem them again. They're bright without being too 'in-your-face' and can be worn casually and for exercise. Vans shoes are way more comfortable than I imagined and I'm definitely going to look into getting another pair soon.
MATALAN TOP // MISS SELFRIDGE JACKET (similar - Mango) // KARRIMOR LEGGINGS // TK MAXX VANS (similar) // NIKE BAG // NEXT SUNGLASSES
10 Perks of Being a Tall Girl
4 April 2016
Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
Growing up tall was something I always saw as a challenge.
It can be awkward and uncomfortable, especially if you don’t like the
spotlight. I used to always wish I was short, just because that seemed to be
the idea size for a girl and there were never any articles or websites on positive tips for tall
women. Unless you’re a model or celebrity, being tall isn’t the easiest thing
in the world. Over time, I’ve come to realise being tall isn’t a bad thing and
actually has its perks. Being a tall girl doesn’t mean you aren’t feminine or
girly; it’s just another body type. So today’s post
is pointing out some of the perks I’ve found, being a tall girl. I’m 5’11”
which is what I would consider tall in comparison to my friends and colleagues.
Disclaimer: This post is in no way bashing or hating on
anyone who is shorter than me or considers themselves short. It’s just a way to
build up those who are tall and should be proud and never ashamed. It’s a post
not to be taken too seriously, and purely for entertainment. Trust me, I didn’t
do any scientific research. I’m not boasting at all, and am more than aware
that being tall does have disadvantages like all body types.
#01 Long Legs
I would consider having long legs the most important perk of
all. Being tall usually comes with
pretty longs legs. Some girls have longer bodies, but their legs are still
longer than average. For me, my inside leg length is 36”, which is apparently
very long. Having long legs is great for an overall image, it helps you to
appear slimmer and taller than you actually are. Although, shaving can be really annoying.
#02 Being taken seriously from a young age
Being a tall girl means you were a tall child. I remember at
around eleven years old and up, I was always mistaken for shop assistants and
store staff. This would happen to me while still being in primary school. But
it’s definitely a perk. Adults automatically assume you’re older which helps
you to feel more mature. It also means you don’t get refused from
rollercoasters.
#03 Easily noticeable
It’s hard to ignore a tall person. No matter how hard you
try, someone who is taller will always stand out and it’s not always a bad
thing. I used to try and hide myself among the crowd, but now I stand tall
meaning others have to look up to me. Getting a lot of attention used to be my worst
nightmare, but if it’s for my height – I’m happy to take it.
#04 Tall compliments
Not that being described with adjectives such as “statuesque”
and “model-esque” happen every day, but when they do, your day is made. “You
should totally model” was said to me once and I kid you not, my mood was lifted
for about three years. Of course, strangers don’t approach in the street and
tell me I look good, but even hearing it from peers is a good feeling.
#06 Being able to reach things
Reaching something a little further away? There’s no struggle
there. Getting things from the top shelf? Never a problem. A tall body is built
with long limbs which means less time asking someone to get something for you.
But it’s not just objects that are easy to reach, kissing doesn’t result in the
pointe pose and he gets less trips to the chiropractor.
#07 Intimidating others without being intimidating
Naturally, humans are intimidated by bigger humans. I’ve
always been a ridiculously shy person, and would never approach someone on my
own. When you’re lacking in confidence and tall, it’s good to remember than
people can assume you’re confidence because
you’re tall. It’s a strange thing to comprehend, but friends have told me
that from their first impression, they thought I was super-confident; when in
fact I’m really not.
#08 Sports advantage
Sometimes when you’re tall, all you have to do is show up
and you’re moderately good at a sport. Netball was always my sport. I played
others, but there are some practises that require skill and co-ordination that
I was built without. Netball including a lot of jumping, reaching and
intercepting. Techniques that are easier with a few extra inches. Plus,
shooting was always easier as I’m closer to the net.
#09 Great hugs
I’ve always found that people who are taller than me give
great hugs. Boy or girl, when someone larger than you gives you a good squeeze,
it’s comforting and mood-lifting. I’ve never assessed my own hugging skills,
but I would never reject a solid hug from someone who towers above.
#10 Heels or no heels
Before the age of sixteen, I never wore heels. Being so tall
results in attention on me and that was something I could never handle. Well, how
things have changed – I can’t resist an amazing pair. Not only do they make my
legs look even longer, but they slim down my overall image and that’s something
I could never turn down. However, I don’t have to wear heels if I don’t want to
and can still appear taller than most people.
I hope you enjoyed this post! Please let me know in the comments if you've found any other advantages of being tall. Also, if you're a petite girl, let me know advantages you've found too!
50 Blog Post Ideas for a Rainy Day
28 March 2016
Harrogate, North Yorkshire, UK
It's incredibly easy to hit blogger's block. Every so often, I find myself stuck for ideas and it can become quite discouraging, especially when I'm eager to post. So rather than sitting in a blogging drought, I occasionally jot down idea ideas I have and always look back on them for inspiration.
Fantastic Faux
24 March 2016
Eldwick, Bingley, West Yorkshire
I happen to be one of those people that are always freezing cold. No matter what I wear, if I spend a certain amount of time outside, I'll get cold. A fresh spring breeze is hitting Yorkshire, and I think I've found the perfect coat to shield me from the cold.
My Top 5 Reality Shows
22 March 2016
Eldwick, Bingley, Bingley, West Yorkshire BD16, UK
I have a guilty pleasure. It’s low-brow and I’m not proud of
it, but I love cheesy reality shows. The cheesier the better. They’re good,
cheap entertainment and a good distraction on a lazy day at home. Whenever I’m
unwell, my instinct is to download as many shows as possible to binge-watch
throughout the day. The list could be endless, and some shows such as House of
DVF, Geordie Shore, Vanderpump Rules and Eric & Jessie: Game On are also
some favourites but didn’t quite make the cut. Over the past few months, I’ve
found more and more shows to get into, and realised I enjoy them so much, I
would share my top five on Anika May.
It's Still Wellie Season
12 March 2016
Eldwick, Bingley, West Yorkshire
So technically, it's spring. Honestly, there's been very little snow and I'm quite disappointed as 2015/2016 was expected to have one of the worst winters ever. Actually, there's only been two days of traffic-stopping snow in West Yorkshire, and the enormous floods did way more damage than the snow has. Either way, I'm still saying it's wellie season.
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