Ootd Throw Back Thursday

3 weeks into the new year and two of those weeks have been spent wrapped up in bed fighting off the plague. I had such better plans for 2015. The first day I recovered enough to don heels you know what I did ? Hobbled my ass down to Zara to see the last of those sales. I picked myself up this jacket for £49.99 and the necklace for £7.99. Here is a tip for sales - to avoid going nuts buying things you don't really want or need - always remember you will never regret a coat- it can be accessorised several different ways and can easily dress up a plain outfit. 

Today I headed to shoreditch to prove just that dressed, as my friend on Instagram Pointed out,  like a pilgrim - perhaps it's because I felt like a survivor :)  

Galliano Debut for Margiela : My Verdict

Back in 2011 nothing got the fashion birds in a tweeting frenzy more than John Galliano's dismissal from Dior and subsequent excommunication from the fashion world following his bizarre anti Semitic comments. Yet here we are in 2015 and it seems the fickle world of fashion has forgiven Galliano, or at least, anger has made way for curiosity. 4.30 yesterday, fashion designers, journalists and elites hot footed it after the Burberry show (Christopher Bailey included) and gathered anxiously to catch a glimpse of Galliano's anticipated debut collection for Maison Martin Margiela.

Whilst many have been reticent to forgive, my self included, no one can deny that fashion has sourly missed this scorned genius. One question was on everyones minds, "Is this collection enough to see him rise back to the top Phoenix style?"  My answer, in a word is yes.

The collection was rich in drama, as you would expect from Galliano, bold silhouettes were complimented with a generous use of chiffon- granting the theatrics of movement. The strict black and red palette, embellished breast plates, masks and makeup gave collection a look of ferocious beauty, perhaps hinting to a designer on the defence yet confident in his craft.

It is evident that he came ready, he came fighting, and he came to stay.

Life Hack : Overcoming Fear

If you're naturally an anxious person, there is no doubt that you have been told by well meaning peppy friends that the best way to overcome fear is to just "feel the fear and go for it" you know, do it anyway. This sounds great in principle, like an inspirational quote that should be written on a poster with panther, however in practice it's not so easy to silence your fears and positively push on.

My anxious friends, I feel you- there is certainly a scale of anxiety, and for those of you who are most severe, I strongly suggest seeking medical help, as severe anxiety is no joke, but for those moderates, I have come across a tactic that just might help you muster the courage and go for it.

The premise of this trick is inspired by Eckhart Tolle's, The Power of Now (a great book, must read). The central premise is, you are not your mind. Meaning there is a you that is infinitely powerful, and there is your mind. Your mind is full of worry, pain of past hurt and fear, it is the voice by which you evaluate situations. Eckhart encourages you to silence your mind and learn that sometimes it can be your biggest enemy.

Now it is difficult to silence your mind, some say its impossible, however after some consideration I decided that there is indeed some merit to separating your self (you at your best, who you were meant to be) from your weak, fretting mind. I decided to try something. To separate the thinking negative into one person in my mind (weakness) and develop another voice of strength. The voice of strength is focussed on what I want in life, and fed by my visualisations of a better life. The voice of weakness is that inevitable fearful voice, that gets in the way and usually psyches me out of doing what I need to do. Now that I had separated the two, negative thoughts could not run riot without being consciously checked. This is so important, as anyone with anxiety will know that left unchecked, one fearful thought will grow to a deafening riot. See your negative thoughts as bullies, bullies that given half the chance will have you living in fear, and never realising the life you were meant for. See your positive thoughts as your best friend, sticking up for you against the bullies and reminding you of why you're here, and that you can do it, pit the two against each other, and mindful of what you want out of life, ensure your best you wins!

I find this really helps me in situations where I feel fear getting the best of me and I hope it helps you too. I guess sometimes spilt personalities can be a good thing ;)

Bare Minerals Liquid Foundation & Concealer Review

Ladies ! I have discovered the holy grail of foundation, like most great discovers of the ages, I simply can't wait or keep this to my self- hence the low budget iPad selfie to accompany this, but don't worry when I'm back from Ireland I will review this properly - for now though here is my heads up for a flawless new year...

Ok so what I wanted was a foundation which looked flawless, was undetectable and covered blemishes. I had heard of bare minerals products before , but stayed away because I thought they had very little coverage and were mainly for people with near perfect skin. How wrong I was...

My main reason for foundation is to cover my uneven skin tone (hyper pigmentation ) and dark marks, I just happened past the bare minerals counter and on a whim thought- let's see what you got.

The makeup artist suggested liquid for me, which is in line with the natural dewy finish I love. The foundation used is called, Bare Minerals Brightening Serum Foundation, and is applied with an unusual buffer brush- this brush is crucial for application, and although I was sceptical about paying out for new foundation plus brush, now I have applied it at home, I can guarantee this to be a needed component. The brush just makes it ridiculously flawless and easy to apply.

How I used it
To prep -
Moisturiser : Mac Strobe Cream
Primer : Mac Natural Radiance (yellow tone)

Application

Foundation : Shake the bare minerals foundation well, as it does not contain mixants, drop 2 -3 drops in the centre of the brush, and then buffer on in circular motion. Add more drops and buffer as needed.I was so impressed with the level of coverage this foundation gives , all the while looking and feeling lightweight- like I had nothing on!

Concealer: bare minerals concealer was just dreamy. Although a solid cream it glides on mad does not cake! In addition to bare minerals under the eye I added the tiniest drop of Mac prolong wear in NC20 for a dramatic highlight under the eye and on cheek bones.

To finish the look I used my new Mac Format Frost Powder Blush and Mac Verve lipstick mixed with Sleek Dare. To set it all I used the Mac Finishing Powder.

All in all this foundation gets 5 stars, it's a must try- I'm in love!

Loves and Finds: Crop Bustier from H and M

                    

Who says lingerie is just for wearing underneath?  I came across this crop bustier from H&M and thought it was just to beautiful to conceal!

Great with a high waisted skirt, jeans or trousers, this crop supports the boobs and dramatises an hour glass shape, whilst offering killer support.

I got mine from H&M who have some great bustiers for really reasonable prices. Check in store or see my favourites below.

Lace Bustier, £14.99

For those with a smaller chest, this is perfect. Also comes in white and nude!

Non wire, lace bustier £12.99

Sequined Bustier £12.99

Inner Space: Positive Thinking Class 1

I have recently determined myself to embark on a positive thinking journey, because I have realised that it is so important to not let life just happen. Just letting things happen= becoming a victim of life, and as powerful beings and intelligent creations, none of us should play that role, especially not in our own life! I have chosen to own the power I have to consciously steer my mind and my life upwards, so I have begun a mission of enlightenment and I invite you to join as I share my experiences and what I learn.

Inner Space Covent Garden: Positive Thinking Course, Week 1 Review

Yesterday Anna & I proactively headed to Covent Garden to listen in on a positive thinking talk run by InnerSpace. Their classes are free & run by volunteers, who are passionate about creating a happier, fulfilled planet. You can check their classes here : http://www.innerspace.org.uk/event_category/courses-in-covent-garden/

I really enjoyed the class, and learned some worthwhile principals I simply must share:

The Garden.

Thoughts are seeds.

A good thought = good fruit
A bad thought= bad fruit.

A bad seed will not reap good positive fruits in your life and will lead to a negative mind.

Your mind is your garden. This makes you the gardener. 

It is important to realise and own the fact that YOU are in charge of your mind, your thoughts, emotions and how you feel. No one can make you plant a seed, ie you do not have to let someone else's negativity grow in your garden.

The Fence=  is your filter

Your mind is precious, and must be protected. Don't just let people chuck litter in your garden and then accept it. For example, someone can be negative to you, but it is up to you whether or not you choose to let that seed grow in your garden, or weed it out. It is up to you to tend to your mind. If you want a positive mindset and a positive mind you will have to work for it.

Analysing thoughts, ie. the seeds:

It is important to recognise the importance of your thoughts. Whether you believe in the law of attraction or spirituality, all agree that everything starts with a thought. The Law Of Attraction goes as far to say that "thoughts become things". Meaning negativity reaps negativity & positivity reaps positivity whilst spiritualists believe that thoughts become your mindset and can lead to a positive, healthy mind, or a negative unhealthy mind. In any case, it is important you evaluate your thoughts constantly.

Yesterday I learned that there are 4 kinds of thoughts.

Negative: things like envy, anger, hate, worry and jealousy
Positive: love, appreciation, gratefulness and happiness
Waste: non productive thoughts, mind wandering, planning things you don't need to worry about
Necessary: the thoughts you need to function.

The aim is to be mindful of what kind of thought you are having before you continue wandering down a path. It is also important to know that sometimes a good thought can lead to a bad one if you are not mindful of your thoughts.

For example:

"Wow she has beautiful hair" (appreciation) can become "I wish I had her hair" ( envy) "My hair sucks"- (self hate and not helpful)

I reasoned that a good practise is to measure each thought against gratefulness, as gratefulness is the root of happiness and the magic of the law of attraction. A negative thought is in essence ungrateful. In this state, good things do not happen.

Take Away Nugget

I have learnt that firstly it is crucially important that I acknowledge that I am in control of my emotions, my thoughts and my mood. This is how I can learn to be effect life instead of have it affect me. This means that I have power over my life, and you have power over yours. Powerlessness is a lie. Every time you take on someones negativity and let that seed grow, you are giving away your power and selling yourself short. So this week I want to challenge you with the same task they gave me :

Approach every circumstance and every thought  this week using SOS.

S= Stand Back
O= Observe
S= Steer

Stand back, away from the emotions of the moment, or craziness,
Observe the thoughts you are having where they are going, how they are shifting your mood.
Steer your mind into a more positive place, remembering that you are in control over YOUR life and YOUR mind.

I am going back to the class next Tuesday & look forward to sharing more. Anyone I can bring along with me on the journey to positivity I will :)

Have a fantastically powerful week.

Party Shoes Wishlist

This season, as you prepare to go to the ball: Don't forget your magical slippers...

Tim Walker Shoots Kate Moss for Vogue.

Happy first of December my lovelies! It is officially party season. I have taken it upon myself to become your holiday fashionable fairy Godmother, after all if you are going to tear up the dance floor, make a move on that guy in the office and look fabulous, you going to need some help.

Today I have decided to write all about shoes.  The reason I have chosen to kick of my holiday fashion guide with shoes, (not that decision needs justifying -who doesn't love shoes) is because, like my mum says, "You can't go wrong with good shoes and good hair". Shoes are so important to making the outfit outstanding, and offer the opportunity to go nuts with glitter, print and colour. 

Save or Splurge, get yourself some stunning shoes and get to strutting show stopping this season:

Spend: 

Treat yourself spend:

Marc by Marc Jacobs £265

Gianvito Rossi Python & PVC Pumps: £619

Giuseppe Zanotti £610

J Crew Glitter finished yellow pumps, £300

Jimmy Choo Metallic Sandals (available in gold too!)

Gianvito Rossi Mirrored leather & PVC pumps (exclusive to net-a-porter) £495

Jimmy Choo Lang texured-lam´e sandals, £495

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN, Ostri 120 eyelet-embellished suede slingbacks -£695

SOPHIA WEBSTER Nicole feather-trimmed ostrich sandals £495

GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI, Yvette suede boots, £575

Treat your wallet save:

Left to Right:

High heel court shoe £39.99, Zara

High heel Leather lace up bootie, Zara, 49.99

Leather Court Shoe, Zara £49.99

Patent High Heeled Mules: Zara, £39.99

Dune Ladies Burst Green, £85.00

Brook Pewter, Dune £79.00

New Look SS15 Preview: Le Sportif, Magical Marrakech & The 70s

Yesterday New Look unveiled their SS15 collection. Popular SS15 trends that feature are bold prints, sleek sportswear and a 70s revival. The collection has a fun holiday vibe, having me wishing for long summer nights somewhere tropical. Along the theme of irreverent holidays, favourite element of the collection was the cheeky slogan accessories and swimsuits. Check them out below.

Le Sportif

As the title would suggest this capsule is a chic & minimal take on the sports wear trend which is taking over SS15 accross the board. The sleek monochromatic pallette allows for easy adjustment into even the most conservative Parisians city wardrobe, whilst metallic accessories ensure that the collection is streetwear ready.

70s

It's the day your funky aunt prayed for, the 70s are certainly back. This daring era sees print clash, denim, brown and flares, which can actually be quite flattering on a curvy figure. About time! I have been over these blasted show all skinnies for years now -_-

Magical Marrakech

Representing prints  to the fullest, is Magical Marrakech. Printed crop tops, shorts, dresses and jumpsuits in colours ranging from cool subtle blues to warm desert reds.

Swim Wear

Beautifully intricately designed swimsuits for that pool wow factor

Beach please, I'm fabulous.

Metallic Accessories with holiday anthems

Give Presence Lulu Lemon Campaign

Anything that can make me take a retrospective look within I welcome. These days with so many distractions and things to do, I honestly feel like I have emotional ADHD. And is it any wonder? With Facebook in your palm, and Instagram at the tip of your finger there is a whole world of things begging your attention and your emotional engagement. Stimulating headlines and convicting images, how can the simple intimate moments of just spending time with family and loved ones compete with the buzz of what's online.

 For me it has become drastic. I actually never switch off and as a result, never actually plug in. Today I came across this powerful video by LuLu Lemon, which compels us to give presence. It challenges us to show up, emotionally and spiritually in our engagements with friends and family. You only get one life that you can be sure of. Isn't it time you showed up for the thinks that matter? This is an especially powerful message for the holiday season. This Christmas instead of focusing on giving replaceable presents, why not give the irreplaceable gift of your presence? Share the message of love.

Link To Video & to Share

Avon #wallofsilence Campaign against Domestic Violence

Domestic violence tragically affects 1 in 4 women in the UK. A silent killer, domestic violence thrives behind closed doors, flourishes in silence and is fuelled by fear. In 2009 Avon, a company built for and powered by women,  decided to shine a light on the masked monster, donating £1.5 million, during their Speak Out Against Domestic Violence Campaign. This year they are back and bigger than ever, with the #wallofsilence campaign, which was conceptualised by Charli Bailey, a surviver of domestic violence and is in association with Glamour Magazine, Women's Refuge & Women's Aid.

How it works is the public (that's you, my lovely) are asked to upload a 'sshselfie' to Instagram or Twitter, with the #wallofsilence and @avon_UK. Every sshselfie will be uploaded to their website to form a wall of solidarity, against domestic violence. For every sshselfie taken, Avon will donate £1 to be split between worthy charities Women's Refuge & Women's Aid, who offer financial support, emotional support and guidance to women who are victims of domestic violence. The great thing about this campaign is everybody can get involved, no matter what your budget, as they are not asking for your money, they are asking for your support.

Earlier this year I watched the tragic true life drama by the BBC titled, 'Murdered by My Boyfriend'. The film followed the life of a bright young girl who fell victim abusive relationship, which would ultimately lead to her death. Whilst she attempted to leave a few times, the obstacles she faced were ones that are common to many women who suffer domestic violence. She had a daughter, which meant that what ever move she would make, she had to be financially secure and she was terrified and terrorised by her partner who had forced her into silence for far too long. It struck me how this awful tragedy could have been avoided, if only she had more support.

Charities like Women's Aid & Women's Refuge offer this support, to attempt to stop any more women from suffering in pain or death at the hands of her abusive partner ever again. Now you can take up the fight too. Stand up against domestic violence, show your solidarity by uploading your ssh selfie with the #wallofsilence @avon_uk and joining the #wallofsilence, encouraging women to speak out and empowering the charities that help them when they do.

We can rid our society of this terrible silent killer. Please post share, tweet, stand together for women.

More ways to help:

If after uploading your selfie you would like to do more, you can purchase the special Avon nail polish in forget me not blue, in which 50% of the proceeds will be donated to the charities mentioned. www.Avonshop.co.uk

If you would like to donate, text WALL to 70500 to donate £5

Whether or not you can afford to give, we can all give our time to do a simple selfie. For the sake of every woman you know who may be suffering in silence, please help Avon end domestic violence today.

Thank you x

Fresh Faced Sunday's: My Guide to faking the natural look

If you know me, you'll know that I am ever partial to a bold red lip. However someday's its nice to do the 'natural' look. Now of course, most girls will know that there is in fact nothing natural about a natural make up look. No it takes ages of careful application, highlighting and contouring to achieve that "who me? I woke up like this" look.After years of perfecting my method, I have finally settled on the following products to achieve natural perfection. Prices will vary depending on where you get your products so I have listed is an average guide based on what I paid.

1. All about that base. As any one of the flawless people who work at MAC will tell you, good make-up is all about the base. I love the radiant effect and so I use the Mac Strobe Cream, I let it dry before applying the primer. I have used a few pre make-up creams from Mac, and this is my favourite.

Both around £24

Followed by Mac Primer, Their standard primer. Works well for me.

Face

Next I have started to use the Mac BB cream (around £24), mixed with some Pro Longwear. The reason I do this is I find mixing the colours makes the colour of the BB cream much more natural to my skin tone, and also lasts a bit longer. I also do this because I find the ProLongwear to be a bit too heavy for the natural look. Once I have applied my base foundation of the two mixed up, I then go back over and apply some ProLongwear to my chin and the bottom half of my face, as this is where it tends to fade more, and it doesn't matter too much if my chin has more makeup than around my eyes. I want to keep around the eyes light to avoid creasing.I apply the BB cream & Pro Longwear mix using my fingers first, and then blend in with their amazing brush

Concealers.

I use 3 types.

1. Studio Fix Concealer, to cover up dark blemishes. I apply this with my fingers, this warms up the concealer and makes it go on better.

2. For under my eyes, I use a mineralise conceal (because it isn't as heavy) and is a shade lighter than my skin. This is for the highlighting look.

3. For serious highlighting, in the centre of my nose, eyebrow arches and under the cheek bone,  I use Collection 2000 Fair concealer (basically any concealer 2-3 shades lighter than your skin tone) in a stick form and draw lines in the necessary areas, then BLEND!!! If you are not sure where to highlight and where to contour, follow this image,

Contour.

See those dark areas in the pic below? To achieve the cheekbones I was not born with I use Mac Studio fix concealer, the same as the one above in a shade that is a chocolate colour. Very similar to the colour in the picture. I put this on my cheek bones, then BLEND. I don't really contour my nose as I like the size of it, but I do put highlighter in the centre.

I then go over my Cheeks with some neutral brown blush. I love Sahara from Sleek. Its like a bronzer with a hint of pink.

Sleek Sahara £4.99 from SuperDrug

Lips and Eyes

For the eyes I use champagne colours from Avon Master Collection Palette, and stick to the top row you can see there,. Starting with the lightest in the corners of my eye and a darker at the end. Not too dark mind, you want a very subtle smokey eye. The exact eyeshadow combinations you use depend on your skin tone.  but be sure to stick to natural browns. I then line with cheap MUA eye liner (£1)n and use Avon Lux rose gold mascara (£9.00 from Avonshop.co.uk)

For lips, I use some Blistex, and the same dark concealer I used for my cheeks. I don't like lighter concealer on your lips, you look dead, but a darker colour works quite well.

To set the look, I go over my chin with the Mac Mineralize powder & spray with the fix spray.

And there you have it a rough rough guide to how to look like your aren't wearing tonnes of make up when you in fact are.  Happy fooling people!

Coast SS15 Preview.

If you know me at all you will know that I am a huge fan of Coast. Statement drama pieces that transform an ordinary city stroll show stopping extravaganza- what's not to love? Far from the occasional bridal wear indulgence, Coast offers statement pieces which transform the everyday ordinary outfit to outstanding. I have been campaigning for women to use some imagination, embrace their fabulosity and bring high drama items from Coast into their everyday lives for a while now. Go nuts! SS15 sees, statement singles, that can be worn together or alone, accessorised with a t-shirt or dressed up with diamonds, the combinations are as endless as they are fearless.

Think Carrie Bradshaw, from Sex In The City, never the wallflower, she was known for her high drama extravagant pieces, styled with flair. Who says you need an occasion to be fabulous?

SS15 Coast collection:

Simple Lux.

Simple Lux enjoys soft pastels, pretty pinks, bashful blues and complimenting creams, occasionally embellished with gemstone details, luxurious lace and shimmering sparkles. Despite all this the collection still manages to be refreshingly light, this part of the collection sees understated easy elegance personified with unique pieces, which stand out on their own whilst simultaniously possessing an elegant subtlety that enables them to be worn together with other items in the collection without clash.

Look 01 Artemis Waterfall Coat, Bliss Top, Paoma Trousers  |  Look 2 Bow Back Dress

New Romance

Takes a modern approach to classic sophistication. A lined printed skirts are paired with lacy bomber jackets for a remix of a classic love story. As well as some great dresses, this section of the collection offers brilliant statement singles that can be dressed up or down to match your mood or personal style.

Nolita Coat, Molly Dress

60's Mono

Power dressing takes a new form with 60's silhouettes, bold lines and a confident monochrome palette.


Luminous Blooms.

Here is where you can really inject some life into your SS15 wardrobe with vibrant modern prints on statement pieces.

Bliss Top, Hyper Bloom Skirt

Modern Muse,
Last but not least, Coast presents Modern Muse, a collection which is a celebration classic of femininity, elegance and charm. Vintage glamour is revisited to create iconic looks which encourages every woman to swap flats for glass slippers, and play the leading lady (if only for a day).

Lessons On Living Shamelessly

Ever wondered what life would be like if you were shameless? Not pointlessly shameless like Kardashians butt pick, but you were decidedly and unapologetically who you wanted to be with no apologies.

Too often, embarrassment, fear of rejection and the wounds of past failures pain hinder us taking the most of an opportunity and living in the now. Yet if we look back at it, more often than not it is not the actual incident that was so bad, it was the emotional pain, chastisement and fear that we attributed to ourselves.

The gift of hindsight truly is a wonderful thing, yet the downsides of death bead revelations, is that it is all too late. To that, I am going to attempt to save you some time with a quote.

"Everything you want lies the other side of your fear". Shame is a useless emotion, the only person you should worry about letting down is you. And the only thing truly hard to forgive yourself for is not the risks you took that didn't pay off, rather it's the risks you didn't take that could of.

So today, I say feel the fear and go for it. The only person you will truly let down if you don't is yourself.