Off the radar- Retrograde is over

Mercury Retrograde is finally over and let me tell you,

this time it was a killer ...

Retrograde comes and go. Is it a myth or is it an excuse? With cynical tweets in full swing and all anyone talks about for an entire month (this time around), what does it really mean? Whether it is psychological or the planets really do have an impact on how we are feeling (which I believe they do) there was no escaping this one. What a roller coaster of emotions and feeling it brought along with it. 

November is always a weird one for me, it never sits quite right. This month I decided to go off the radar. My schedule was filled, work life was crazy and strangest thing about it? There was not a single part of me that felt the desire to share it. 

I went Christmas shopping in London, another trip to Edinburgh, I spent a minute taking time out, I went out with my nearest and dearest, I fell ill, I worked like crazy and quite simply I had the best time. 

  

I dined in my favourite restaurants, cafes and bars, spent Saturday in Selfridges and my Sunday in Harrods. I visited my sister and stayed solo, waking up at 5am and going to bed by 9. I took some time out for myself and I also spent it with my closest. After working like crazy all year round it was needed more than ever. 

The thing is social media and its influence makes you feel a certain way and keeping your head above  water when you are juggling so many things at once proves a challenge to anyone. It's hard to keep on top of your motivation, energy and engagement. 

   

The things that keep you going are the things that can make you not break you. I find myself fully invested in Christmas this year ... a completely new thing for me. I look back at my past month and despite a few hiccups know I have placed myself in the best position and situations and feel proud of my work even though I felt tested. 

Just remember darlings, you should never feel guilty about taking time for you regardless of where that is, who that is with or when that is. I have found myself in some tough situations this past year and its true what they say what makes you bad makes you better. 

This way you are ready for anything. 

  

You made it this far, who is ready to have a little fun? 

  

Down to earth

February is alway the strangest month. Congratulations, you made it through the January blues however know that your Summer vacay is still five months away. The key to keeping yourself motivated over these next few months is keeping it real. Throw yourself into what you are passionate about, work hard and surround yourself by encouragement- trust me you will be thanking yourself before you know it. 

Keep it real: Set yourself realistic goals

Keep your head out the clouds and set the bar but make sure you can get there. Deadlines are everything, if you could do it you should do it.

Keep it real: Plan, but don't overplan

You can't do everything but you can do most things. Keep yourself busy, reconnect and throw yourself into all things that matter. A girl on the go is a girl who is motivated and ready to kill it.

Keep it real: Surround yourself by ambition

Focus on yourself. Be a little selfish. Don't let others put you down. Not everyone will strive for what you desire and thats ok, but don't let it demotivate you. It's easy to be blinded but keep your head down and priorities in check, no one strives to be a people pleaser.

Keep it real: Have a little fun

It's not all work and no play. PLAN your Summer, set yourself something to look forward to. Do not turn boring. Take a break, get scandalous, make a mistake and learn a lesson. Buy those shoes you can't afford, leave that party later than you should, say the things you shouldn't, experiment with your style, be outrageous but keep it real.

Stay down to earth darling, because once you've left no one likes a fall. 

What's in my bag? Christmas '17 | Blogmas

The mini edition
           I have recently changed my go to handbag to something that is simple, structured and will go with any ensemble. This is a handbag that I pick up as I leave the house for any occasion and it is very rare that I change it's contents. I have had this Zara over the shoulder bag (SHOP SIMILAR) since last fall and I know I will have it for months to come. Costing around £39.99 it is the perfect mini for any trip and it's size eliminates the temptation to overfill it with unnecessary belongings.
      As many of you know I am a sunglasses enthusiast and wear them all year around. My Fendi Iridia's (SHOP), in classic black and gold, always leave the house with me. I consider these an essential to keeping my eye make up in place especially in the midst of a never ending polar vortex. 
     I have recently switched to an iPhone X (yes I am still figuring out how to use it). Like many I rarely leave the house without my phone but I also consider accessories such as a power bank a necessity when you are a far away from home, working long days or on the go. These keep you in loop with the world and great in an emergency. 
     Having a card holder is revolutionary. Instead of carrying around a purse, which is unlikely to fit, a card holder contains everything you need and is perfect for nights out in the city! I bought mine from River Island (SHOP SIMILAR) however the variations are endless. 

    You may think are three lip pieces really that essential? to which I argue yes they are. I always carry around two lipsticks, one day time and another evening. My current favourites are Bitch Perfect by Charlotte Tilbury (SHOP) and Marthe by Chanel (SHOP). I also carry my Unleash Me lipgloss by Charlotte Tilbury as an added extra to wear over Marthe (SHOP). These are for days when you don't have time for a dramatic outfit change but your still need a little help in creating a flawless look. Another quick trick is carrying a perfume sample or handbag bottle with your favourite scent (my current favourite is CT, Scent of a Dream), you never know when it will be needed.

Which are your favourite handbag accessories this festive season?

What do you consider an essential?

 

It's the season ... | blogmas

December has finally arrived and we find ourselves once more in confusion as to how the year has passed by so suddenly, but the festive season is here and it's about to be our best yet. It's time to take a step back, revaluate and have a little fun.

It's the season ...

... of city trips and new year getaways

There is nothing more dreamy than finding the time to travel over Christmas. So whether you are city hopping to Christmas shop or jetsetting to warmer climates, if you have the chance to do this - take it. 

I recently visited Edinburgh not only to explore those iconic Christmas markets but to purchase from some of my favourite places, oh and you know I have a thing for department stores. It's times like these that you forget about the minus degrees and your everyday schedule to take time out and have a little 'me' time. Christmas is my busiest period and i'm an avid shopper so I couldn't resist. 

... champagne, sequins, lovers

There is nothing I adore more than a Christmas party, I take any chance of an opportunity to dress head to toe dramatic. The shops are filled with the most ridiculous over the top, vibrant colours and sparkle and they are quite simply out of this world. It's time to bring Paris' 21st mini number into a new era and pair bold and brilliant cuts with faux fur and extravagant accessorising- and no one will question it.

... movies, songs and home decor

Christmas appears to have started early this year with Christmas trees appearing before November has ended. I treasure the time between Christmas and New Year due to a hectic schedule however that does not mean I refrain from surrounding myself with all things festive. Try something a little different this year when it comes to decorating your home. My favourite holiday theme of all time is rose gold and bronze, one trend I just wish would hurry and return. Christmas is about treasuring your home and creating tradition, a rule book you don't have to abide to.

... sales!

The second it hits midnight on Boxing Day my sale shopping begins. Find yourself snapping up some of the hottest seasonal pieces. This is the time of year I always invest in items I know that will last me for years to come the trick is knowing where to look. Everyone has the same idea when it comes to hitting the high streets and shopping centres in the days following Christmas but stores such as net-a-porter, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols are my go to, just be wary as you often have to await for Christmas delivery catch up.

... gift giving

Whilst many despise Christmas shopping for others I can't help but adore. Although you may find it difficult to buy for others there are plenty of hints and tips around that can help you on your way, whether you're picking up gift guides from your favourite stores or getting inspiration off your favourite YouTubers. Both scent and personalisation are things that have mesmerised this year.

... giving back and showing a little love

We have talked about all our festive favourites but Christmas is your time to make a statement. Think about what is important to you, how you can change someones day, and what you can do to make a difference. We always talk about having a voice, particularly in todays society, but do you consider how you can use it? Motivate yourself and others around you. 

Don't be a bystander when it comes to discussion or cause.

It's the season where everything happens. Where no matter what you have entailed this year your priorities refocus and you engage in a little self love. Join me this December as we explore all things festive and all things 2017. 

Merry Christmas my darlings!

Shop my look//

Coat: River Island SHOP 

Top: Zara SHOP

Jeans: Levi SHOP

Boots: River Island SHOP

Handbag: Michael Kors SHOP SIMILAR

Scarf: Burberry SHOP

Delectable | September favourites

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September is undoubtedly my favourite month. It marks the start of a new season, fashion week and the launch of a whole array of new products ready for the festive season. This month I have invested a lot of time and experimentation with some fresh launches. AW17 is in full swing and Autumn just so happens to be my favourite season, I mean who else agrees this seasons colour palette is too die for?

Nails Inc. nail kale, Regent Mews SHOP

Nail Kale is my new Nails Inc favourite. As a loyal customer I am rarely wearing a manicure other than Nails Inc. Regent Mews is not only a rich, deep purple which is ultimately seasonal, and a known weakness of mine, but it leaves you with the manicure of yours dreams. Made with extracts of kale this polish strengthens your nails and from personal experience is a league ahead when it comes to being chip proof.

Full bodied foundation brush 110, FENTY Beauty SHOP

I happened to be in Harvey Nichols the day of the Fenty beauty launch and I just couldn't drag myself away. I have actively been seeking a new foundation brush all year and I just could not find the one, until I laid my eyes on this. Not only is the colour of this brush super cute and chic but it's softness is out of this world. This is one celebrity beauty range I would highly recommend testing. 

Liberation, Balmain X L'Oreal SHOP

I had been signed up to Balmain X L'Oreal list for a while and yes on September 1st I was sat there awaiting it's introduction. Balmain is one of my favourite brands, with Olivier Rousteing being one of my idols- his fierce attitude brings it all. The hard part when purchasing this lipstick was choosing a colour ... bold, bright, subtle or daring? Or all the above? Liberation is a divine purple that is perfect for your AW17 wardrobe. Beware this is one very dark lipstick however it is filled with rich tones that compliment any glam look.

  

Tootsie Tamer, Nails Inc SHOP

This was gifted to me as a birthday present and I only wish I had this all Summer. Essentially a foot buff this tootsie tamer works miracles ... find me wearing sling backs all year long.

  

Sweet Peach palette, Too Faced SHOP

What I adore about this palette is it's transitional array of colours. Whilst peaches and bronzes are perfect for the Summer months it also includes some of my very favourite Autumnal tones. Talk Derby to me, Delectable and Peach pit are what dreams are made of this fall.

  

Hollergraphic, Nails Inc. SHOP

I couldn't resist. You all know how much I adored my Unicorn mani, well it just got all the more outrageous. These nails inc duos are literally magic in a bottle. All you need is a dark room and a camera flash to see why. Hello showstopper. 

 

Rose Gold Apple Watch S2 SHOPS3

I was incredibly lucky to receive an Apple Watch for my birthday. As someone who is always on the go, and someone who must keep up to date with the latest news at all costs, this watch literally delivers everything I need in a heartbeat. I have never been a watch wearer but this rose gold design is stunning whatever your ensemble. If you are a tech lover like me I couldn't recommend it enough.

MOSCHINO

MFW has just passed and Jeremy Scott's SS18 ready to wear runway was something I will forever remember. His play with shapes and colours, paired with his fun and feisty attitude, never fail to deliver excellence. He encourages us to experiment, break boundaries and embrace our powerful persona's. View the collection HERE. 

Guess playsuit, SHOP GUESS

I picked up this gorgeous Guess playsuit ready for my birthday. It's phenomenal colour caught my eye in an instance and you all know how much I adore the 'almost lingerie' trend. This playsuit has not yet made it onto the website but I can only hope it's reappearance exists in multiple shades. It is laid back, effortless and of course a little sassy.

Sweet nothings journal, Kate Spade SHOP Kate Spade

Everyone knows I adore Kate Spade and her attention to detail. Everything feels so simplistic and effortless but her way with words add a little attitude to all her products. 

They also happen to be my desk favourites. 

Which products have been your favourite this September?

The festive gift guides are just around the corner, and we are on countdown.

 

Fashion Week Low down

Whats a Tuesday morning without Chanel? An army without Olivier? Paris without Giambattista dreams? AW17 is here and it's going to be one to remember. Riccardo Tisci presents his last Givenchy collection, Yeezy steps up his game and as for NYC? It's currently knee deep in snow. We love dramatics when it comes to fashion week, lets count on Jeremy Scott to shake things up.

NEW YORK

Thursday 9th February          Friday 10th February             Saturday 11th February
Nicholas K                                Calvin Klein                              Lacoste
Desigual                                    Kate Spade                                Jill Stuart
Tadashi Shoji                            Tanya Taylor                             Tibi
Noon by Noor                           Cushnie et Ochs                        Banana Republic
Adam Selman                           Pamella Rolland                        Christian Siriano
Thakoon                                   Jason Wu                                    Mac Duggal
Michael Costello                      Jeremy Scott
Rag & Bone

Sunday 12th February          Monday 13th February           Tuesday 14th February
Victoria Beckham                   The Row                                     Tory Burch
Vivienne Hu                            Carolina Herrera                         Badgley Mischka
Prabal Gurung                         Zimmerman                                Naeem Khan
Altuzarra                                 Lela Rose                                    Adrienne Landau
                                                Proenza Schouler                        Alice + Olivia
                                                Zadig and Voltaire                       Dennis Basso
                                                3.1 Philip Lim                             Gabriela Hearst
                                                Mara Hoffman                             Coach
                                                Oscar de la Renta                        Carmen Marc Valvo
                                                Zac Posen                                    Brandon Maxwell
                                                Zan Toi                                        Reem Acra
                                                Philipp Plein                                Monique Lhuiller
                                                                                                    Narciso Rodriguez
                                                                                                    The Blonds

Wednesday 15th February  Thursday 16th February
Kimora Lee Simmons             Marc Jacobs
Brooks Brothers
Derek Lma
Anna Sui
Marchesa
Tom Browne
Ralph Lauren
Yeezy Season 5

London

Friday 17th February           Saturday 18th February         Sunday 19th February
Fyodor Golan                          Jasper Conran                            Margaret Howell
Eudon Choi                             Julien Macdonald                      Anya Hindmarch
Bora Aksu                               Markus Lupfer                           Preen by Thornton Bregazzi
Daks                                        J W Anderson                            Roland Mouret
Ashley Williams                     Emilia Wickstead                       Peter Pilotto
Paul Costelloe                         Simone Rocha                           Topshop Unique
Preen                                       House of Holland                       Mulberry
Central St Martins                  Gareth Pugh                               MM6 Maison Margiela
Charlotte Simone                    Versus Versace                           David Koma
                                                                                                   Temperley London
                                                                                                   Mary Katrantzou
                                                                                                   Charlotte Olympia

Monday 20th February     Tuesday 21st February
Antonio Berardi                   Emilio de le Morena
Roksanda                             Amanda Wakeley
Erdem
Sophia Webster
Aspinal of London
Christopher Kane
Osman
Joseph
Burberry

Milan

Wednesday 22nd February  Thursday 23rd February    Friday 24th February

Gucci                                      Max Mara                               Diesel Black Gold

Cristiano Burani                     Fendi                                       Emporio Armani

Alberta Ferretti                       Emilio Pucci                           Sportmax

No21                                       Les Copains                            Etro

Fausto Puglisi                         Prada                                       Giamba

                                                Moschino                                Tods

                                                                                                Versace

                                                                                                Vionnet

Saturday 25th February     Sunday 26th February          Monday 27th February

Bottega Veneta                      Marni                                       Giorgio Armani

Blumarine                             Trussardi                               

Missoni                                 Stella Jean

Ermanno Scervino                MSGM

Jil Sander                              Salvatore Ferragmo

Philosophy         

Elizabetta Franchi

Paris

Tuesday 28th February    Wednesday 1st March          Thursday 2nd March 

Saint Laurent                      Maison Margiela                     Chloe

                                            Lanvin                                     Ann Demeuleester

                                            Dries Van Noten                      Paco Rabanne

                                            Rochas                                     Balmain

                                            Kenzo                                      Alexis Mabille

                                                                                             Rick Owens

                                                                                             Isabel Marant

Friday 3rd March            Saturday 4th March              Sunday 5th March

Loewe                                Haider Ackermann                  Balenciaga

Issey Miyake                      Mugler                                    Celine

Dior                                    Acne                                        Valentino

Andrew GN                        Elie Saab                                 John Galliano

Yohji Yamamoto                Vivienne Westwood                Givenchy

                                           Commes Des Garcons         

                                           Nina Ricci 

                                           Sonia Rykiel

Monday 6th March         Tuesday 7th March

Stella McCartney              Chanel

Sacai                                  Miu Miu 

Giambattista Valli             Louis Vuitton 

Hermes                              Paul and Joe

 

17 things to get you going in 2017

Today is the day that many people face the dreaded return to work after the festive period. Why so dreaded? It's the start of a brand New Year and a whole new list of things to get excited about. Here's a just a few things to get you through the start of those dreary January blues.

2017
1.We have some serious movie releases heading our way this year. From Jackie O, to Beauty and the Beast, Wonderwoman and Star Wars (!!). This is one killer year for the film industry and they come so frequently that there is always something to spice up your month.

2.Awards season starts this Sunday! Yes... this Sunday. All eyes will be peeled on the red carpets of the Golden Globes, BAFTA's, Peoples Choice, SAG and of course the Oscars. Will it be Emma and Ryan who take the lead or Natalie who strikes again? Were still not quite over Leo's win.

3.It is exactly 5 months until it becomes perfectly acceptable to start jetting away on your Summer holiday. That's 149 days, and this is one.

4.Lin Manuel Miranda creates dreams. Can you believe that Hamilton has finally made it across the pond debuting in the Victoria Palace theatre? Whilst we have to wait until November, we all know that wait will be worth it.

5.I'm not sure I could even consider Pretty Little Liars a thing to look forward to. With only half a season left, resuming in April, i'm not ready to give up the outrageous and scandalous adventures of four of our favourite liars, but who is A? That's a question we would all like the answer to... again.

6.Can you believe it's less than a month again until the Superbowl? It forever comes around so quickly. Whether your thinking of the football, the food or Lady Gaga's half time performance, this is one night you won't be able to resist.

7. After a turbulent 2016 we are entering a new era. The era of Trump and Brexit. Whilst this was never many of our desired path we are making history. It's time to play your part and make sure we obtain the best outcome possible. We always flourish when the going gets tough.

8. I may have mentioned movie releases but 50 Shades Darker is in a league of it's own. This is all the scandal we need to get us through the February freeze.

9. Will she or won't she, everyone is waiting to see if the rumours are true. Will Queen B headline Coachella? We can't wait for festival fringe, space buns and outrageous glitter make up.

10. Apple celebrate it's ten year anniversary of the iPhone. Will we see one of the greatest releases in mobile technology to date?

11. Rei Kawakubo will become the first designer, since Yves Saint Laurent in 1983, to become the sole subject of this years Met Gala with the theme Commes Des Garcons.

12. With new music in the line up we can only expect to see tour announcements. The likes of Ed Sheeran, Adele and Taylor Swift are all in our radar. Will we expect to see One direction added to that list?

13. It was in January last year that we first saw the emergence of spray on nail polishes, primarily Nails Inc. One year later they are bigger and better than ever. In a rush, no problem? Having a flawless manicure at all costs has just become one of the most accessible things on the market.

14. The rise of the Instagram story was one of the central talking points when it came to social media discussion last year. With shared similarities to snapchat will we to see show and shop fresh off the runway this coming season? We hope.

15. Companies such as Google and Amazon are believed to be trialling 'food by drones'. Yes this does mean grocery shopping straight to your door by drone. Talk about coming a long way.

16. Greenery is Pantone's colour of the year and I couldn't love it anymore. It's time things got a little brighter and more down to earth. Bring on S/S.

17. Pyjamas in the daytime are all the rage. Well almost. Whether you are going sleek and sophisticated with a slip dress, or wearing a silk playsuit with all the frills, being on trend never looked so good, or felt so comfy. Think of it as a wear your pyjamas to work/party day, year.

 

Go bold or go home | Blogmas

    

Outfit of the day

Dress: River Island

Shoes: Office

Face of the day:

Make up look, 'Glamour Muse' by Charlotte Tilbury

Face: Magic cream, magic foundation, the retoucher, airbrush flawless finish, love glow cheek to chic, Bronze and glow light to medium 

Eyes: Full fat lashes mascara, Rock n Kohl: Barbella brown eye liner, the luxury palette, Brooke S brow lift SHOP HERE

Lips: Pillow talk lip liner, Velvet Underground lipstick, Candy darling lipgloss SHOP HERE