OOTD: My Little Black Dress

JEWEL EMBELLISHED BLACK PENCIL DRESS, £35* 

 

I haven’t done an outfit post in so long! I wouldn’t class myself as a particularly on trend or a fasionista. Personally, and I know I sound old but I love being comfortable. I like wearing what makes me happy not what the magazines are telling me to wear, so sometimes I get it right and sometimes I get it massively wrong! Therefore I don’t think many people would be interested in seeing what I am wearing, however I wore this outfit at the weekend and was particularly pleased with it so I thought I would share it with you all!

So going back to the comfort thing… I love getting dressed up for a night out as much as the next girl but I can feel ridiculously self-conscious in a little dress, which means I don’t relax resulting in a bit of a blah kind of night. So I thought I would put a grungy spin on this little black dress. I paired it with a messy hair do and a denim shirt, which was from Primark a few years ago. This is so much more me! If I didn’t think my classy friends wouldn’t tell me off I would have added my DM boots to finish off the look, instead I went for my old and amazingly comfy black wedges from New Look, they have a good heels on them which is vital when your only 5ft2” yet super comfy being wedges!

The dress its self is a black bandeau number with gorgeous gemstones on the bodice. I LOVE it! It’s from Blue Vanilla and its ones of my favourite dresses. Although it’s quite revealing so I love the denim shirt over the top, it tones it down and I feel so comfy in it.

Do you like dressing up or are you more like me and like to add an edgier dressed down tone to an evening look?

I&K Clip in Hair Extensions from Hairtrade

 

I want long hair. I am desperately trying to grow it but it seems to be having a pit stop just below my shoulders, grr!!! So hair extensions are a very happy resolution for girls like me who are desperate for a bit of length. They are fun to use and you can create some amazing looks with them.

When I was given the opportunity by Hairtrade to try some of their extensions I was beyond excited! I decided to go for the I&K Clip in Straight Hair, the chocolatebrown shade and 22” long. This is roughly how long, in a dream world, I would like my hair to be!

I&K Clip in hair extensions are made from 100% real human hair extensions, each extension has a decent amount of hair on and the clips are good quality that attach closely to the root to make them look as natural as possible. I received 10 clips in pieces with 18 clips attached, plus 2 pieces without clips which I would class as a full set of hair. However I do have fine hair so I think if you had thick hair you may need to sets.

 

 

My current hair do...

It is that awkward in between length that hangs just below my shoulders and the colour is dark brown with blonde streaks around the front that frames my face. I was a little worried that with the blonde bits the extensions would stand out like a sore thumb. However I was really chuffed as the extensions match my natural dark brown colour spot on! I couldn’t believe how well it’s matched!

How to attach them...

These extensions arrived with the clips already attached! Wahooo! I have had extensions before where you have to sew on the clips which aren’t fun. I found these extensions really easy to apply. I started applying the larger extensions to the lower level of my head and worked my way upwards, layering them with my natural hair. I then added the single strips where there were gaps. You just slide the clips in. I tend to back comb the area I want the clips to go and use a little hair spray. I find this helps keep them in place, we don’t want clumps of my hair falling out and freaking everyone out!

I&K Clip In Straight Hair in Chocolate Brown (22 inches)

 

This set costs £72.99 which is a great price for natural hair extensions. These are fantastic quality and I have seen them for a lot higher price elsewhere so think this is a bit of a bargain to be honest.

Overall I am really pleased with this set of extensions and they will definitely be making regular appearances! I’ve been playing around with up dos and plaits. All look so much better with a bit more hair! I completely LOVE the way these look up or down! The bonus of these being made from 100% real human hair is that it can be cut, coloured, straightened and curled.

 

What do you think? Do you wear hair extensions?

Glitterati by Crown and Glory - Septembers Box

I am obsessed with accessories, whether its bags, jewellery or hair pieces, I think they can really make an outfit! So it will probably come as no surprise that I am a huge fan of Crown and Glory. Their hair pieces are just stunning and so funky and original.

They are a little on the expensive side so I’ve always managed to resist, but this will power failed me in spectacular style when I discovered that Crown and Glory had their own monthly subscription box! ‘Say what?!’ I hear you all say! YES A MONTHLY SUBSCRIPTION BOX! I have officially entered heaven!

The box is named ‘The Glitterati’  and its £20 a month which includes postage and packaging!! It’s such a good deal! And inside the box is over £50 worth of hair goodies!

My first box didn’t disappoint, I was sent the Intergalactic Starlight Crown which I have been lusting after for ages! It’s sold on their website for £15 so I couldn’t believe it when I spotted it in my package. All together I was sent 5 pieces and I am so excited by each and every one of them! There was a floral crown, a stunning floral hair clip, some glittery mouse ears and a pair of little flower grips.

I was going to be behaved and just get one month  and then cancel my subscription, err I think I may be investing in a few more boxes at this rate! This is one of the most exciting subscription boxes I’ve had for a while!

Holding onto Summer

Ipanema Tropical Womens Flip Flops // £14

 

Today’s been the first day for me where it has started to feel a little bit like autumn. This makes me feel so miserable! I know we have been incredible lucky with all the beautiful weather we’ve had this summer and I for one have tried to make the most of it!

I don’t know what’s making me feel all autumnal today, vie woken up with a slight cold and have just had a massive roast dinner and there is a slight chill in the air. It’s the kind of weather where you want to get comfy on the sofa with your duvet, a cup of tea and a good movie! Don’t get me wrong its nice not to feel guilty doing this like you would when the suns shining outside! This also pretty much sums up what I’m doing right now!

However I am not ready to give up on summer just yet! I am definitely happier in the summer, I tend to suffer terrible with the winter blues and I hate it! Therefore I am here to declare that I am going to hold onto summer for as long as possible. Today vie been in shorts and flip flops, I am going to be that nutter who wears these staples for as long as possible.

I love the flip lops I’m wearing in the above photo, they are from Ipanema who make the most unbelievable comfortable flip flops and these ones are their tropical women’s flip flop in Turquoise/Lime.  They will definitely brighten things up as we turn into the colder months!

I love summer so much, people are more social, everyone wants to be outside doing fun activities and people are generally in such better moods! For now I am going to make the most of being outside as much as I possible can before the weather gets any colder!

How do you feel about the changing seasons? Are you dreading it as much as I am?

 

Friendly Gesture

I am a huge fan of Etsy, an online market place filled with unique hand crafted bits and pieces. I can easily waste an afternoon browsing away at all the different shops. You can be guaranteed to find original goods that suit everyone’s style.

As a huge accessories fan, especially jewellery, Etsy is like a treasure trove to me! I love spicing up an outfit with a quirky necklace or some funky earrings. Which leads me to today’s post, I wanted to share with you all my favourite shop on Etsy and the recent purchases I’ve made from them! Friendly Gesture sells a wide range of cool hand stamped jewellery with a quirky edge.

Over the past year I have been slowly filling my jewellery collection with their range. My favourite piece so far is a T-Rex necklace, however this may have been trumped by my latest buys which are pictured below…

I am obsessed with Dinosaurs, I collect anything with them on so just had to add these awesome dino earrings to my collection, how cute are they!! The star earrings go with everything and are gorgeous. Finally, just check out my favourite piece, this Pegasus necklace, I have just one word, LOVE!

These bits come all the way from Nebraska in the USA, but shipping is pretty reasonable based on what you purchase and mine items have always arrived within a week of me placing my order¬

Do you have a favourite Etsy shop?

 

 

 

 

Sugarhill Boutique Wish List!

Do you ever have an online shop, where you always find yourself heading to and adding pretty much their whole range to your fantasy basket in the hope that on payday you might actually treat yourself to one or two pieces? Well Sugarhill Boutique is that place for me!

I am completely in love with their cool and sometimes quirky prints on the most feminine pieces. I think they are so dreamy! So I thought I would share with you all my current Sugarhill Boutique wish list!

Bike Stripe Smock Dress  / Miami Sweatshirt / Fruity Maxi Dress / Lolly Top / Burrito Skater Dress / Picture Perfect Top / Bright Birdie Blouse

To be honest I don’t think they have a single item I don’t like or wouldn’t want in my wardrobe, but these are the items that I’ve had my eye on for a while. How cute is the Picture perfect top?! Perfect for a blogger like me who can be found on weekend adventures with my camera in tow!

Having recently got back into cycling and aiming to ride my bike for at least 10 miles a week, the Bike Smock Dress is just calling my name. Then the Lolly Top would be perfect for my impending holiday at the end of next month and as for the Burrito Skater Dress, I am in LOVE! I think someone is going to have to hide my bank card so I don’t go on a crazy spending spree I just can’t afford!

The best part about most of Sugarhill Boutiques dresses and tops are that they can be dressed up or down, perfect for a day to night outfit, and they are all so lovely and feminine without losing the fun appeal.

What are your favourite Sugarhill Boutique pieces? Have you bought anything from them before?

 

 

The search for the most stylish man in somerset // An interview with Jeff Banks

Todays post is something a little different from me and features a road trip, some dapper looking me and a legendary fashion designer, I hope you all enjoy it! A couple of weekends ago now I was invited to Clarks Village in Street, Somerset to meet Jeff Banks and attend his event ‘JEFF BANKS SEARCHES FOR THE BEST DRESSED MAN IN SOMERSET’. If you not heard of Clarks Village it’s a great place that has tons of discount stores of your favourite brands, it’s a shopaholic’s heaven! I'm also a bit of a fan of Jeff Banks, if you've not heard of him (where have you been?!) he is a British fashion designer whose had a very long and successful career in the industry and his designs are very stylish, sleek, showcasing traditional tailoring with a modern twist.

I live about an hour’s drive from Street, and my brother lives about 10 minutes away so I picked him up along the way and dragged him with me! The event started at 12 noon with all the gentlemen entering the competition lined up outside Jeff’s shop, which sales Jeffs Mens wear collection. Four judges, including myself got to choose which 10 entrants could go on to become finalists, who all received a £250 makeover from Jeff Banks himself!

It was a tough choice choosing the top ten as there was a lot of stylish men in street that day!

After the top 10 had been suited and booted, they then modelled their new outfits for the audience with Jeff describing the outfits he had chosen. I have to say the competition was high, as they as looked pretty suave! Who doesn't love a man in a suit?! It was then up to panel of judges to decide on the overall winner, who would win a weekend away for two in Paris and a £500 Jeff Banks watch (…not jealous at all!!).

The overall winner, crowned with the title of ‘Most Stylish Man in Somerset’ was a local lad from Street, called Connor Derbridge who was encouraged by his gorgeous girlfriend to enter!

To top off the day, Jeff Banks kindly answered a few questions I had….

This event was to find the most stylish man in Somerset, what were you looking for?

A GREAT LOOKING GUY WHO WANTS TO RE INVENT HIS IMAGE

How would you define 'style'?

STYLE IS PERSONAL IT DEFINITELY IS NOT FASHION IT IS ALL ABOUT WHAT IS PERSONAL TO YOU.

What celebrities do you think have the ultimate style?

JOHNNY DEPP, KEITH RICHARDS, BRAD PITT, JAKE BUGG AND WILL I AM

You have had a very long and successful career, what has been the high point for you so far?

STILL BEING HERE!

What would you say is the secret of your success?

MY QUIET, SHY, RETIRING PERSONALITY

What one piece of advice would you give to budding fashion designers?

DON’T DO IT! LEAVE IT TO JEFF

I would like to say a big Thank You to Jeff for taking the time to answer my questions. It was a really fun day out, and fascinating to watch how Jeff works. My day was then topped off by a late lunch over in Glastonbury with my brother! Do you have any British Fashion designers you admire and that have stood the test of time?

P.S Have you checked out my ‘800 Bloglovin followers Giveaway’ yet? You could win a MAC Lipstick in ‘Plumful’, Kylie Minogue ‘Pink Sparkle’  Eau De Toilette, a Tangle Teezer ‘The Original’ Detangling Hairbrush and a Nail Rock Glitter and Polish Set... so what are you waiting for?

A Bit of Bling!*

 

I am a complete magpie when it comes to any form of jewellery! I Love a bit of bling, especially at this time of year. We are rolling head first into the party season and I’ve been on the hunt for some fab jewellery to go with all the outfits I have lined up!

I’ve recently been sent these gorgeous earrings from the lovely people over at ‘The Jewel Addict’, if you’ve not checked out their website you must! EVERYTHING is £5 and they have the most amazing earrings and necklaces!

 

 

This pair is called ‘Island Sunset Earrings’, they are really fun and look awesome dressed up and dressed down. I think their name is perfect! I’ve worn them to work a few times this week and I’ve had some great complements!

 

 

The second pair I received, which is my favourite are the ‘Mulberry Buzz Earrings’. They are very 20’s style and kind of tacky but tasteful! They really suit the ‘Gatsby’ trend that’s currently happening and I personally can’t wait to wear them out with my little black dress to a few Christmas Parties!

 

P.S I have my eyes on these Necklaces for pay day for some pressies for a few of my girl friends. I think they look so much more expensive than they are!



Autumn Clear Out!

So I had a pretty rubbish start to the day, I, like thousands of others spent the morning on the house phone, my mobile, my laptop and the ipad trying to get me some glasto action. Sadly me and Glastonbury Festival weren’t meant to be and I didn’t manage to get any tickets. Heartbroken is an understatement but I managed to pull myself together and have a reasonably productive day for a Sunday!

The last few weekends I’ve had something on and not really had a chance to catch up with things and get organised. Also I don’t know how everyone else feels, and I don’t whether it’s because of the however many years of education we endure, but Autumn always feels like new beginnings to me. It makes me want to clear out my life and start a fresh. So today I decided to start with my wardrobe and get a few bits on eBay. I am on a mission to try and save a few pennies at the moment, and I have so many bits of clothing that I though I might as well see if can sell a few pieces.

 

I am a nightmare when it comes to clothes! I love shopping and have no will power, my wardrobe is over flowing. Seriously I have a pile of stuff on the floor as have nowhere to put it. So enough is enough! I pulled out everything and put them into three piles of stuff I’m keeping, stuff to bin and stuff to sell. I found tops and dresses with the labels still on!

I feel so much better now after having a clear out, it’s a bit therapeutic. My bedroom looks a bit like a bombs hit it now but hey ho! I even started putting a few bits on eBay. Check out my page here, I will be adding more over the next few weeks.

I also caught up on my blog today, and a bit of blog admin. All my emails (well most of them...) have been actioned or replied to. I also wrote a few posts as well as two guest post, which I’m really excited about and I will tell you more about soon.

All in all I’m quite pleased today, I’ve had a pretty productive day. Go me! Hopefully it will mean this week will be pretty cool as I’m sort of up to date for me! For a severely disorganised person I’m feeling pretty together!

September Round Up

WHOAH! How is it the last day of September already?! This month feels like it’s gone so fast. On my first ‘Motivational Monday’ post of the month (check it out here) I stated a few aims for this month which were the following....

‘start looking at my future, make plans, start figuring out where I want to go what I want to do’

‘Learning something new’

‘Attempt to do a blog post every day for the month.’

Err so I kind of failed miserable at all of these, in terms of making plans I still have no idea how to get to where I want to be. Although I know I want to write, I want to travel, I’d love to meet Mr Right instead of Mr Oh So Wrong.... I just have no idea how to do any of these three!! I lack confidence in my writing, I have no money at all so travelling is out unless some amazing person would love to pay for me to travel and write about the experience??? And as for prince charming, how the hell do you meet hot single boys these days?!

I don’t think I’ve learnt anything new and I failed miserable at blogging every day! However the week where I did manage to blog every day, I’m not sure I enjoyed it that much. Don’t get me wrong I love blogging and have post ideas coming out of my ears but when I put pressure on myself to blog each day I didn’t get the same buzz out of it. Therefore in a good way it’s made me realize I love blogging and I will blog when the mood takes me. No pressure, no ‘I have to post’, no mass commitment. I think this is then reflected in my writing, if I’m happy I think my writing improves.

Do you blog? Do you like to read/write posts daily? I’d be really interested in people’s views on this.

On the plus side, this month’s been pretty awesome, I may not have achieved my aims but I’ve still had a blast! Works been crazy busy but I’ve managed to catch up with so many of my amazing friends. I feel so lucky that I’m surrounded by some pretty talented, lovely, funny, crazy people. As you get older it sometimes feels harder to see people and have regular catch ups, due to the daily grind of life getting in the way. But when we do see each other, it’s like no times past, and I love it. There’s something about good friends that just make you feel so awesome. It may also be due to the large amount of cocktails and dancing that’s taken place this month!

 

I’ve also done a bit of moon lighting this month, I was very lucky that I got the chance to write a piece for FETED Magazine about my homemade face mask and scrub. It’s so exciting to see my work someone else other than my blog! I also did my first ever guest post for the lovely Gabriella at Brighton Girl Blogger, which you can find Here. I also recommend you check out here bucket list! It’s inspired me to start my own. I’m not sure I’m as brave to put it in the public domain though!

Favourite product...

For September it’s definitely got to be my Moroccan Oil! It ran out about a week ago, but it’s lasted me for months! I’ve been using it most days and since I’ve run out I’ve definitely noticed my hair is more knotty and isn’t as soft at the ends. I’m trying to be good with money at the moment but I’ve got a big argument in my head to order some more. Oooh the dilemma!

Top Tune for this Month...

Please forgive me for such a word heavy post!  I just feel that even though I didn’t quite do what I set out to achieve this months, it’s still been refreshing and fun and I feel like I’m making massive strides down a positive happy path! It’s also been really nice to write this post, to be able to sit down and reflect on things. I think we are all guilty of not taking the time to do that, and it’s so important.

Happy Monday Lovelies! xx

 

OOTD: Weekend Warrior!

 

Weekend Warrior Tank Top from Jawbreaking

 

Fast as a Bullet Necklace from Cut and Run London

 

I’ve not done an outfit post in a little while, and I feel like I’m slightly cheating here only sharing my cleavage area with you. My reason for this is because I am still suffering the aftermath of a nasty cold so I am sporting a gorgeous red nose that would give Rudolph a run for his money. Because I am feeling run down I am also feeling a little self conscious and having a fatty day. However I really wanted to share my new purchases with you!

If you’ve not heard of Jawbreaking where have you been?! Their logo tops in various styles are fab and I’ve had my eye on a few of them for a while. I’ve been trying to be good with my unruly spending lately but when I came across a 10% off code I couldn’t stop myself from making a cheeky purchase.

I went for two vest tops and I’m so glad I did! They are great quality and completely suit my style. This ‘weekend warrior’ top is one of my purchases and I’ve been a bit naughty and now purchased this in the sweatshirt design too! Ooops!

My gorgeous bullet necklace is from Cut and Run London, another great site for cool clothes and jewellery. I’ve got my eye on a pair of earrings and a tee at the moment. I MUST resist!!

Have you made any cheeky purchases lately?

 





Mini Haul: Primark

 

This is the first time I’ve ever ventured into doing a haul post! I love reading them on other blogs but have never been sure if I could do as good of a one as the ones I like! However I thought I’d give it ago, as last Saturday I took a trip to Primark and thought id share my purchases with y’all!

 

So first up are these cute pair of White Hi-top sneakers. I’ve wanted a pair of white converse for quite a while now but have not been able to justify the £50 price tag. My logic is that I will try out these first, if I wear them nonstop I shall replace them with my converse.

 

I love this red coca cola sweater! It’s perfect for slouchy Sundays and those chilled out days. It’s fun yet grungy, which suits my style. They have a black version that was in the men’s section which I was tempted by but preferred this one.

 

Next up, the reason I went into Primark in the first place was to purchase a pair of pjs. Next weekend I’m off to Butlins for a 90’s weekend and all my nightwear is pretty old so I thought id treat myself. I loved the fun bird print on these trousers. The T-shirt is from the men’s section, I like to wear baggy tees in bed so I tend to do this.

 

Finally, for as long as I can remember I’ve owned a pair of leopard print ballet slippers. They are a great go to pair of shoes for something smart yet comfy. I don’t really do the traditional smart, so these are perfect! My last pair got wrecked due to rain, so nice to have a cute new pair

 

 

 

 

OOTD: Flowers and Spikes

Trousers: ASOS CURVE Peg Trouser in Floral Print

Tee: H&M

I don’t do may Outfit posts as I’m not sure I’m classed as cool enough, or wear enough of a variety to talk about! My usual standard get up is skinny jeans, converse and a slouchy tee. I am very lucky that I can wear what I like to work and it’s pretty casual, I’m not comfortable wearing ‘smart’ clothes so it works well for me!

I really like the outfit I’m sharing with you today, and hope you guys like it too! It’s very ‘me ‘and is what I wore to work yesterday. I love the flower trousers, they are so comfy and remind me a bit of PJ bottoms. They are slouchy but I think they can be dressed up or down. I’ve teamed them with a plain black tee for work which I think smartens it up slightly.

Necklace: New Look

Footwear: Haviannas

Rings: Both Accessorize

Watch: Fossil

I’m a huge accessories fan, I think you can make the most boring outfit exciting with a fab necklace or ring or hair accessory. I think the necklace here really funks up this outfit, it’s grungy but fun.

I am trying to wear my jeans a little less so think outfit is a great alternative!

What do you think of outfit posts? Would you like to see more of them?

Feeling Shady

I love a good pair of sunglasses! Living in England I know we have very limited sunshine and are more know for our poor weather, but lately we had a heat wave and every so often we get a sun filled day! Therefore I find its always useful to have a good pair of shades on hand, I keep a pair at the bottom of my handbag for those moments of need, along with my brolly!

I have a few pairs, one I keep in the car, one in my handbag and my favourite pair that I take out on special occasions. Also I am heading off on holiday soon so have been thinking about which shades to take and debating whether to treat myself to some new ones!

  This pair I purchased this summer from Dorothy Perkins. I quite like the square frame.

I received this pair of sunnys as a Christmas present from a friend. They are a black frame with a diamante eyebrow rim. They are quite 60’s retro.

These are my favourite pair of sunglasses that own! They are from House of Harlow 1960 and were pretty expensive! They remind me of Audrey Hepburn who us my ultimate style icon.

As you can see my collection is quite varied! I think you can have so much fun with a pair of sun glasses. They come in all shapes and sizes, can be amazing for wearing on sunny days or just to cover up this tired eyes and hangovers!

I recently came across the brand Cutler and Gross, they do some quirky styles that have definitely been added to my wish list. I am very tempted to treat my self to a pair for my holiday but apart from not being able to pick only 1 design they are a little out of my price range, varying from £300 - £365. A girl can dream!

 These are my favourite designs from Cutler and Gross. I LOVE them!!

I want! I need!

I am desperately in LOVE with these boots. I think a decent pair of leather boots are a staple for everyone’s wardrobe. Especially a good pair of leather ankle boots. They can be so versatile they can go with dresses, skirts or skinny jeans and can be dressed up or down. Most importantly for me they are usually pretty comfortable! I am useless when it comes to big heels, I like to be the last one standing so love flats or low heels. This isn’t so great being a complete shorty!

Hudson Encke Ankle Boots in Coal

£150

find them HERE

 

Hudson are a fantastic footwear brand and I can often be found drooling over their website. They are expensive but are good quality shoes and boots. I can’t explain how much I am lusting over these boots at the moment. Sigh. They are £150 and are slightly way out of my price range at the moment, so I can only dream!

 If anyone would like to lend me the money.....

Ebay Wish List...



Welcome to my EBay wish list! This is a constantly changing list depending on what style I’m into at the time and think it’s a great reflection of where I am at the moment! I am a huge fan of EBay, I am constantly looking for fun little bargains, and who doesn’t like a saving? The only issue I have with it is that I can be quite competitive so when it comes to any auction items I have to be quite restrained and not go bidding mad! I also sell a lot on EBay, it’s definitely helped me survive in that end of the month skint period the week before pay day!

Anyways here is my current wish list.... Let me know if there’s anything you’re currently watching or have your eye on!

Gold Triangle Hand Harness and Ring

£2.99

find it HERE

 Sequin Peter Pan Collar Blouse

£3.99

find it HERE

 

 Rose Flower Necklace

£0.99

find it HERE

Rottweiler Sweatshirt

£21.09

find it HERE

Studded Sandals

£6.99

find it HERE

 



Swallow Necklace

£1.27

find it HERE