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Mini Forever 21 Jewellery Haul



Oh jewellery, what a love/hate relationship we have. I love the look of jewellery, I love what it can do to an outfit and really tie it together in some cases. However, what I don't love is the price tag of some things. Prices are obviously justified for what you're getting, but I can't afford to buy everything on my wishlist - even if I really wanted to!



I popped into Forever 21 in The Trafford Centre last weekend and fancied treating myself to few bits. I was hoping to grab a few clothes but honestly I left feeling a little underwhelmed. Nothing really grabbed my attention and it was all a little bit the same? With that in mind I headed over to the impressive jewellery stands. 


I felt like picking up some more bold items to add to my relatively small collection. I don't ever wear bracelets, I never really have I'm much more of a ring girl so to make a bit of a change I found this beautiful cuff. I adore the detailing on both the necklace and cuff, intricate but enough to be noticed. 

I have to admit, as much as the earrings are lovely they don't seem to sit in the lobe as I expected, still wearable due to the long bar back but can be a little tricky to get into place. I bought the rings in medium (I think F21 sizing isn't all that clear or I'm being silly) and they are true to size for me and all sit nicely as normal or midi rings.

WAYS TO WEAR:
Necklace £6 : Simple outfits/under shirt collars as a statement piece.
Rings: £5: Stacked and midis.
Earrings £3:  In lobes or if you have your cartilage pierced, they seem to fall and place better in that section of the ear.
Bracelet £5 : as a detail or with a long sleeve item.

So, there's a few things I picked up and have been wearing religiously for the past week! How would you style them?

Friday, 30 January 2015 Comments: 10
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Why Not People?

Why Not People is a charity founded by Jameela Jamil. The foundation aims to break the barriers between the experiences of able bodied members of an audience and those with a disability whilst attending live shows. Ensuring everyone has the same opportunities.

Why Not People will be a members only club (members are those with a disability) where members can not only buy tickets for themselves but for their friends and families also. The organisation will work with new technologies to ensure the experience is suitable for all those attending, be that a sensory or physical disability.



"I one day decided I simply can't continue living in a world that excludes such a large part of society. Some of my best friends are those people. Their disabilities should not prohibit them from having the same social experience as those of us who do not face the same challenges. 

In this day and age, and with so many technological advances, I simply refuse to believe we can't make more effort to create a more balanced society, one that accommodates those of us who already face so many daily struggles already. I am so grateful that I am finally in a position where I can help to do something about it." - Jameela Jamil

Acts already confirmed to headline Why Not People events are Coldplay, Tinie Tempah and James Blake.

WNP also aims to create “a social community for our members where they can do everything from catching up with mates and getting fit, to receiving personal styling tips from a personal stylist and blogging on our collaborative site”

I personally agree that it’s ridiculous something like this hasn't happened sooner. Going to live events is something I think can be taken for granted because for those who don’t live with a disability, they’re easily accessible. For example, there are some small venues that can’t accommodate for someone who is disabled. I can go to a show and have free range of where I stand or go to whereas it’s not that simple for others, something which is a key factor in the campaign.

     Source whynotpeople.com

I’ve been going to live shows since I was 15. This has led to meeting my best friends and to having a handful of memories to cherish. The fact that someone who could share the same attitude towards music and live shows as myself can’t have the same experiences or miss out on meeting new people and forming new friendships, is quite simply unacceptable.

"Why Not People? Ignores the notion of limits and discrimination and caters to all people for all walks of life. It is a chance for us all to party with the people we should have partied alongside all along. With accessible venues, the finest talent on the planet, we promise to put on gigs, events and club nights that you will never forget." - Jameela Jamil


.

The aim is to reach a goal of £40,000 by 19th February 2015

I for one am fully behind this and hope it has the success it deserves.

For more information:
http://whynotpeople.com/
https://twitter.com/whynotppl
https://www.facebook.com/Whynotppl
https://twitter.com/jameelajamil

*information sourced from whynotpeople.com 

Wednesday, 28 January 2015 Comments: 1
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Manchester 24.01.15





                               
 
This weekend I went up to Manchester to see my good friend Lydia for some "I know it's a month early but we're doing this anyway, pre birthday escapades" as she can't make it to my actual birthday next month, which involved Christian Bale, nachos, a lack of pizza and a bit of Amaretto.

The train up was stressful and when it comes to travelling I hate being pushed for time. It makes me all kinds of panicky. I'm THAT person who needs to be at least 20 minutes early rather than 20 minutes late... unless I'm only going out into London, then everyone would tell you I'm always at least 10 minutes late. My stress only seems to happen if I'm going away to a different city. Weird right? However, I did manage to finish my book within a return journey and I loved it. I read Don't Look Back by Erica Spindler and boy can that woman write a gripping story.

Lydia and I hardly get to spend as much time as we used to together now because of various reasons, so it was nice to spend time catching up over £2 cocktails. God bless you, Font. If you live/ever go to Manchester you have to take a trip to Font. I prefer the one in Fallowfield but the one by The Ritz is just as good but obviously busier. 

Here's what we got up to in moving picture format.

               


xx
Sunday, 25 January 2015 Comments: 2
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RED







Yeah, this is titled after a Taylor Swift album because why not?

Who knew I could wear something that wasn't black? I love the detailing on the back of this top, it makes what seems to be a plain shirt a little bit more interesting. Paired with some old school shoes I found, surprised they still fit me seeing as I haven't worn them since 2011! Makes a change from my chunky boot obsession.

Jacket - H&M
Top - Topshop (sale)
Jeans - Primark and really bad DIY knees
Necklace - Regal Rose
Shoes - on top of a cupboard

xx
Monday, 19 January 2015 Comments: 3
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The Best Bits Of 2014

   

                 

Tried that talking to a camera business and concluded I am still scared of Youtube so bear with me. There's something that makes me want to shrivel up and cringe when I watch myself back. Maybe I'll get over it in time!

I'm probably the last person to talk about highlights from 2015 but I felt like having a chat anyway.

If you want to see more moving images of me per second, go here.

Lots of love as always

xx
Saturday, 17 January 2015 Comments: 4
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Her Success Is Not Your Failure


Sometimes everyone needs a friendly reminder of this. It’s really easy to fall into the trap of feeling like a complete failure and endlessly listing comparisons between yourself and another. I’m fully guilty of it and no doubt it really plays on your mind.

We’re heading into an age where social media popularity and/or “fame” is thriving and throwing new beautiful people our way. Take instagram for example. It’s the app I probably spend most of my time using. Partly for inspiration for outfits, random things and to be honest I’m just plain nosy. I can find myself scrolling through a whole timeline, cautiously trying to avoid the 83 week ago like slip, getting more and more defeated? I don’t know if that’s the right word.

Being a girl (and obviously applies to guys too) is tough. There’s a lingering feeling of never being good enough always latched onto you. It’s not healthy to constantly compare yourself to others and think how wonderful they are and neglect yourself. I think for some people to say “I like my eyes/nose/cheek bones/face in general/body shape” comes with the fear of being seen as full of yourself. Body image is a huge pressure on many people’s lives and trust me I know how hard it is to look at yourself and be completely content. However, I’m learning to look at myself and be confident enough to say “Hey, I like this about myself and isn't that great!” without fearing I come off in the wrong way.

If we’re comparing our own lives to those on instagram or YouTube, we’re comparing ourselves to the bits we do see. We don’t see them doing massive cries about how crap life can be or see them when they’re in full hangover mode in last night’s makeup cringing into a pizza box screaming “WHY ME”. We see the parts they choose to share. So we might imagine these people have a wonderful life and look red carpet ready all the time when in most cases, it’s not.

There are so many young successful women around, building incredible careers and reaping the benefits for their hard work and it's so disheartening to see other girls bitching about them, directly or indirectly. What the hell happened to girls sticking together and all that? The world would be a lot better if more women stuck together instead of stepping on each other to get what they want. I mean there’s an actual Anti – Feminism political party standing at the general election and songs pitting women against each other as if that isn't worrying…

My friend Shannon tweeted this the other day and I couldn't more preaching hands emoji if I tried.

“Just a reminder: No one is better than you. You’re not superior if you step on other people to get to the top.”

Just because someone is doing incredibly well for themselves it doesn't mean you have to cut yourself short. You can do anything if you put your mind to it; there isn't a specific formula for success. I see all my friends who are at university doing really well and doing all the things university life entails. (The funny thing is I always saw myself going until the time came). The social life and great qualification, sometimes it makes me think I’m doing something wrong. I don’t go out every week, more like every couple of months. So am I missing out on meeting great people? People say uni years are the best years of your life, so am I missing out on those said best years?

For me, when I really think about it and come out of my pre 20 life crisis mode, No. I made the best choice for me and funnily enough, I feel successful and happy. I left a college I hated to go back to my old sixth form, to leave not knowing what to do, to passing my apprenticeship at the highest level in that particular field , to be in a job now that’s intended for graduates. At 19. It was hard work but I’m so proud of myself for doing it. Is that not a success?

You don’t need to follow the same path as everyone else to get somewhere. Make your own and support and motivate those around you! Nothing beats a strong lady friendship.

It’s the old saying, Work hard, Play hard.


Source

xx

*photo from tumblr, I can't find the direct link.
Thursday, 15 January 2015 Comments: 13
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Golden Globes: My Picks

I never really care for awards shows, especially if they're on while I should be sleeping but as I've somehow acquired a new sleeping pattern (yaaay!) which is keeping me up, I took to twitter during the multiple live tweets/blogging updates to keep me entertained and fell in love with a handful of outfits!

So, here are my top 5 looks from the event.

EMMA STONE


I think Emma won on the outfit front for me. She always looks incredible on the red carpet! The look is just so well put together and fits perfectly. The detailing on the jumpsuit is absolutely gorgeous. I particularly like that eye makeup has hints of a blue shadow instead of just sticking to a traditional black smokey eye! Want this jumpsuit, please.

LORDE 


I am beginning to become a little bit obsessed with Lorde. I love the simplicity of her choice. When wearing a full black outfit I find it can be hard to find the right thing to "jazz" it up but she's done it perfectly with this bold statement necklace. Particularly like that she quite literally let her hair down for the after party and switched her look up with a white version of the bralet and down sized on the jewel front to a bracelet of a similar design to the necklace.

ROSAMUND PIKE


SHE JUST HAD A BABY AND SHE LOOKS INCREDIBLE.
People on my timeline were in two minds on this one but for me, I loved it. Good on her for showing off her beautiful post bubba bod! I think it has the right level of risk and safe to it. I am a sucker for a simple, floaty dress and the back detailing is so effortless and dainty. Having a nude toned makeup look really works hand in hand with the dress.

TAYLOR SCHILLING



Oh, I love Taylor. Ever since I started watching OITNB I developed some what of a girl crush for her. I think she is such a talented and hilarious woman! I personally feel like this dress is perfect for her, especially with the key hole cut out and backless touch. Some people weren't a fan of the brows but I thought it went with the look really well!

EDDIE REDMAYNE


Suits for me can be hit or miss, you kinda have to get it spot on for it to work. I love that it stood out from the numerous suits at the event due to the different fabric .It's a good take on the classic. Complete with a bow tie and 'chief he looked brilliant. (and totally deserved the win!)

So, that's my top 5! Of course there were so many incredible dresses, suits etc and it was difficult to choose from. Who were your favourites? Agree with the results? Let me know below.

xx
Monday, 12 January 2015 Comments: 2
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Face Of The Day - Wishing I Was Queen Bey




Just a quick one today!
I was watching a Beyonce video the other day and loved one of the makeup looks in it. Obviously, I'll never be Queen Bey (cries eternally) but I love how simple and quick it is. For me, this would work perfectly for work by alternating the lip colour around for different days as I'm always in a rush!

PRODUCTS:

Revlon Colour Stay - Ivory
MUA Elysium Palette
Vivi Blush Bake
Anastasia Brow Wizz - Taupe
Mac Lipstick - Diva
Miss Manga Mascara 
Real Techniques Brushes - Base Shadow Brush, Shading Brush & Detail Brush

xx

Saturday, 10 January 2015 Comments: 6
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5 Tips For Beginner Bloggers


I began blogging properly in 2014 as a way to fill time and distract myself from nonsense going in life and it's turned into something I really love doing! Even if I'm probably the worst blogger ever.

So, here's a few things that may help you on the blogging front.

1. Don’t over think it, believe in what your sharing
Over thinking and comparing your blog to other bloggers is something that I have done ever since I’ve started and my best advice to you is simply, don’t. Easier said than done granted but it can make you feel like you may not be doing the right sorts of things. Which is silly because what is exactly the “right thing” when it comes to blogging anyway?

Believe in what your posting and that will reflect onto your readers.

2. Comments
Commenting is essential for not only meeting new bloggers but also driving traffic onto your own blog. However just don’t go overboard. There’s a fine line between commenting and then just self-promo. In my opinion self-promo, done obnoxiously even if that may not be the intention, is off-putting and wouldn't make me want to click through whereas if I see a comment where you can tell someone has actually read the post and left their link with their name I’m more inclined to have a look.

A little trick if you’re not so good with html like me, instead of a un-hyperlinked link to your blog use the html below. It tidies up the comment and makes it easier for the reader to click through.

<a href=”YOURURL”>BLOGNAME</a>

3. Proof Read
Now I have been awful for this in the past. If you’re a little bit of a perfectionist this is key. There is nothing more annoying than creating a post you’re really proud of to realise you have a spelling or grammatical error. People will pick up on these quickly so it’s always best to check! Ask a friend or family member to read through and make sure everything makes sense and flows. (Ironically, I spelt beginner wrong when I posted this)

 4. Timings 
Setting posts live and sharing them at the right time is something I have learnt recently and considered each time I’ve come to send a post out. Leanne Woodful posted an incredible guide to blogging which included the key times to share your material!

BEST TIMES TO POST:
7am - 9am
12pm - 2pm
5pm - 7pm

5. Don’t get disheartened
Now to be a little blunt.

Blogging is hard work despite what people may think. For some it comes with a stroke of luck and the “right connections” as some people have stated in recent months. Whilst for others it’s a slow painful process. I mean you can spend hours on something, be really happy with it and not really get any anywhere. However, don’t give up at the first hurdle. If you really really really enjoy it… keep at it!

Nobody gets 12164000 followers overnight. Don't focus on the numbers. Appreciate the audience you do have and use any feedback you get to improve and keep your blog growing. Just like anything in life work hard and keep determined and it will, fingers crossed, all be worth it!

I hope this helps and if any of you have any tips or tricks, leave them below! X
Thursday, 8 January 2015 Comments: 26
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Goals for 2015


It is too late to be posting about 2015 goals?

Anyway, I've never been one for posting New Years resolutions online but this year I figured a few goals wouldn't hurt anyone. I think I've never bothered because as humans, we're too worried of what other people may think of us. So that leads me onto number one.

1. STOP WORRYING.

I worry too much. I worry of what the person next to me on the train thinks of my hair, clothes, music choice if they can see my phone, everything. It drives me mad because it stops you from focusing on what you're doing and ruins your mood.

Take a deep breath and relax. They probably don't care as much as your feeling/at all. The only person you need to aim to please is yourself. I feel that people sometimes judge me for what I post on here or if I make videos. It's silly really but it's an overwhelming presence to me. Trudy, IGNORE IT. If your happy doing something (and not hurting anyone else in the process) good on you! Keep at it. (also be confident in you because you are one sassy lady at times)

 2.  BE MORE OPTIMISTIC!

You CAN do it. Believe in yourself and stop limiting yourself because you think you're not good enough for things or people. Apply for that job, talk to that person, nothing bad will happen!

3. F.R.I.E.N.D.S

See friends more.

Just because life takes people in different directions, it doesn't mean it's over. Put in the effort, plan trips and make time with people rather spending time missing them.

4. TRAVEL MORE

 I got the travelling bug in 2014. Hard. I spend hours looking into places I wish I could be and see.

Canada, California, New York, Rome, Barcelona... Trudy save up and do it. You have enough lipsticks.

So there's a few things I'd like to achieve by 2015, I'll try not to break at least one by next week.

Let me know what some of your goals are!




Sunday, 4 January 2015 Comments: 3
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Style Inspo : Lauren Conrad



For years I have loved Lauren Conrad. From Laguna Beach to the highly drama filled The Hills to now with her fashion lines, books and beauty tips. I think The Hills was one of the places my love affair with fashion started.

I used to, and occasionally still do, spend days on the sofa watching re runs of the best voted The Hills episodes. She always seems to just get it right. I don't think I've seen anything I haven't personally loved (Okay, well we can ignore some of the early Laguna episodes.)


I turn to Lauren for all sorts of occasions but especially for work wear. I'm not one to dress overly smart for work as I simply don't feel comfortable in it. I think it's just a personal preference but luckily I've always been in jobs where "uniform" isn't overly strict! However I don't want to turn up in a jumper and comfy trouser options as much as I'd love to. 

LC was a major part in swaying me to taking the chop to my hair in 2014... and I'm so glad I did. It's easier to maintain and care for plus it suits my face shape better in my opinion.

   
Any of you a fan of LC and/or The Hills? Who was your favourite and favourite episode?! Let me know who your style inspiration is down below.

xx

images from pintrest.

Friday, 2 January 2015 Comments: 4
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