Thursday 31 December 2015

What I Got For Christmas







Off my mum and dad I got a lovely Kate Spade Tiny Metro Watch in this gorgeous vibrant pink shade, with the gold detailing. Kate Spade is one of my favourite brands, as her pieces are always so delicate and simplistic. I didn't know I was getting a watch, and it was a really lovely surprise. I also get a a bottle of Jo Malone Blackberry and Bay Cologne which has such a beautiful scent. I am super excited to be start wearing this as it smells divine. My parents also bought my some beautiful Charlotte Tilbury makeup, which I was totally shocked, yet over the moon about. She got me the Dolce Vita Palette, the Cheek to Chic Blusher in Love is the Drug and the Air Brush Flawless Finish Skin Perfecting Micro-Powder in Fair. I am super excited to try these out and I will report back soon, once they have been put to the test. Ugg Boots are a favourite of mine and I currently have a black and chestnut pair, which I have had for years and they are super comfortable. My sister surprised me with a pair of the Short Classic Chocolate style which was super lovely of her, and I know I will get so much wear out of these.

For other smaller presents, I received some really lovely bits. This Kirstie Allsopp Rose Bath Bombes Kit is from my mum as she knows my about Lush addiction, and I thought it was a really lovely, thoughtful present. I am definitely going to try this out soon, as I think it will be really good fun.
I am always in need of hand creams, and I now have quite a big stash to put to the test. These miniatures from the Soap & Glory Winter Wonderhand set are really lovely, and are the perfect size to fit into my tunic pocket for when I need them on the go. This Gold Polka Dot To Do List is a perfect present for me, as I am always making notes to try and help me remember to do things, as I am useless and my memory is rather small. I love that with this pad you can just rip the pages out easily. The magnet on the back is the super useful, as I can pop it on my radiator so it is super convenient for when I need it.

I hope you had a fabulous Christmas and I wish you a happy New Year!

Lucy
xoxo 
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Wednesday 30 December 2015

2016 Blogging Goals



I did one of these posts last year and I really enjoyed doing it. I love setting myself personal goals to strive to achieve and it helps you keep focused.

I have really tried to focus on my photography this year, and I worked hard to improve it but there is definitely more work to be done. I find it really hard when I am on placement to take photos when the light is at its best, and taking pictures in bulk is definitely the way forward. 

I have started to become more organised and I need to continue with this. Buying my notebook was the best thing ever, as it helps me to plan my posts. I can easily see what I have done, and what I still have to do. I also do mind maps and notes planning out what I'm going to do, the content needed, and when I'm going to be posting it in the month. I am definitely going to continue with this organisation, and try to optimise my notebook more when inspiration strikes. 

Instagram seems to be a game changer for a lot of bloggers recently. So I think I need to seriously up my game. I can go days or even weeks without posting anything, and people want to see regular content and uploads if you want them to stick around. So this is a big one for me, to also take bulk photos for Instagram to help me to always have something to upload for when I am busy.

This may sound a little cheesy, but I would like to start making more friends within the blogging community. I speak to some really lovely bloggers regularly who are really great, but I don't really know anyone on a personal level or talk to anyone off Twitter. I don't actually have any 'friends' who blog, so I think it would be really nice to be able to discuss blogging within people within the community. So here's an olive branch to those girls who are already my Twitter faves, and to anyone else for that matter! Let's all feel loved come 2016!! 

I think the goals which I have set are realistic and there is just enough to get my teeth stuck in to for 2016! I was thinking I might do a half yearly review next year, to see how I am getting on with sticking to what I set out to achieve.

I would love to read your goals posts. So please link them below. I wish everyone a Happy New Year and let's smash 2016!!

Lucy
xoxo



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Thursday 24 December 2015

Merry Christmas!



Today marks the last day of #blogmas for me. I have had a fab time doing it, but I have felt very pressurised at times trying to make sure I had a post up for the next day. But if has definitely made me feel at ease for the future, as to just post when I want to. I cannot believe Christmas Eve is here. I think I am finally in the Christmas mood (horray!). I am super excited for the next few days to relax and spend some quality time with my family, and eating as much food as I can possibly consume!

I'm not sure when I'll next be posting a blog post, but I have two posts planned somewhere between Boxing Day and New Year so keep your eyes peeled. I think I am going to do the obvious what I got for Christmas post, as I really enjoy looking back at what I got, and I love to read these on other people's blogs.

I would like to wish each and everyone of my readers, old and new a very merry Christmas, have a fabulous day and eat and drink as much as you possibly can!! A special little thank you to those few readers who have been keeping up with my blogmas and have been really lovely, it's made me all warm and cosy inside as you are all too nice. I am going to go before I get emotional!! 

Merry Christmas!!! 

Lucy 
xoxo


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Wednesday 23 December 2015

Spreading the Christmas Cheer


I have just woke up without a post for today and I've totally felt inspired to spread the Christmas cheer. Last night I watched Jaclyn Hill's video called Trying to Make a Change on why hate on social media has the end. I love Jaclyn, and as she states she's there to talk about beauty, and share her knowledge of makeup. I think she is absolutely beautiful and it is awful to see such a positive woman crying at the overwhelming hate which has been shared on her videos recently. She says how it has become so bad, she's just disabled comments. I would never dream of posting something which a mean intention on someone's blog post or video, as that's just not me. Also, I think a lot of people miss the point that these people have feelings and thoughts. The mean reason I would never do YouTube is due to the backlash, and I think this is a thought shared by many. I don't want this to be all doom and gloom, as today is Christmas Eve Eve, and I think it is about time that social media is a platform to share love and joy. You can not be a positive person all day everyday, but if your not feeling good, the answer isn't to make someone else feel bad. Jaclyn has dealt with many personal issues and has been having therapy. She has become to understand that the people who are being nasty and mean, is because they have some inner demons which they haven't dealt with. This is totally true, on social media it is ultimately down to jealously. Every one gets jealous, I wish my blog got more views, I wish that I was getting all 1sts in my uni results. At the end of the day, that's life and sometimes you do need to work on yourself.

I wanted to say that I have recently been really loving being in the blogging community, and I hope come 2016 I can make friends with some of you lovely people. Christmas for me is about spending precious time with family and friends, and life is definitely too short to be spreading hate, knowing that it will make someone feel sad about themselves. Today, if you are feeling crap or not in the Christmas spirit that's totally fine. I was feeling totally like that last week with a mountain of work in front of me. But I've learnt that you need to embrace the time that you have here and now. Spending time with your most loved at Christmas is the best thing ever, and it makes me all cosy and warm inside. I think a great thing to do is think about all the things in 2016 you want to achieve, which is a very scary and daunting thing to do. But it excites me, my life is going to be a big adventure, and that is scaring yet it is something which I have been wanting for so long. 

So I would just like to say that lets all spread the love and joy, and have a fab Christmas!! 

Lucy 
xoxo

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Tuesday 22 December 2015

My Top 10 Makeup Discoveries of 2015






I loved picking all my favourite pieces to put in this post, I actually found it surprisingly easy. When starting to write this post, I realised that I had in fact chosen five drugstore and five high end purchases.

I discovered the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge in the summer and I have been using it on a regular basis ever since. I don't own a beauty blender so I cannot compare them. But this is seriously get value at under £6. I love to use the wide, flat end to apply the foundation across my face, and then to use the pointed top to apply it to the smaller areas.
I have tried many eyeliners this year and this Maybelline Master Precise Liner is by far the best. I love liners which have a thin, pointed nib as this really helps with precision, and to get a perfect thin line. It is really excellent value, and this has lasted me a good few months. I will definitely be rebuying it when my current one runs out.
I am ridiculously fussy with my mascaras, so when there was a lot of hype surrounding the Maybelline Lash Sensation Mascara I decided to pick it up for myself. It was a great purchase as it adds volume and length without being clumpy.
This Rimmel Exaggerate Lip Pencil in East End Snob has been a firm favourite in my makeup bag this year. I have never previously been into using lip liners on a regular basis, but I have been converted with this. This colour is so beautiful, as a mid toned pink shade and is very versatile.
This KIKO Long Lasting Eyeshadow Stick in Rosy Brown has the perfect mixed of brown and bronze tones. It is beautifully pigmented and has just the right amount of shimmer within it. I have previously found cream products to crease really badly on me, but this does not at all.

This Nars Creamy Concealer is not exactly the cheapest concealer around, but I have really liked it and that really frustrates me as it means that I am going to want to rebuy it! I love how creamy the texture is, and it blends really lovely, and is long wearing on the skin.
It took me months to finally splurge and buy the Nars Sheer Glow Foundation. There is no denying that it is expensive at £31, but it is an excellent foundation. If you have dry to normal skin, and need some glow it does exactly what you expect. It sits nicely on the skin, and looks dewy and does not cling to dry patches on your skin, like some foundations do.
The Nars Satin Lip Pencils are the greatest lip product which I own. They are super pigmented and I love that is a 2 in 1 product with a lip liner and colour in one. They have a huge variety of shades including my favourite Torres Del Paine, and something which will suit everyone. They are long lasting, non drying and stay put. I like the simplicity of applying the product, as it is just so convenient for when you are on the go.
My sister bought me the Laura Mercier Primer for Christmas last year. I have literally just finished the tube, so it has lasted really well and I used it on a daily basis. It is light but really hydrating on the skin, which is exactly what I need as my skin can be very dry in places. I am definitely going to repurchase this, as this is the best primer I have ever tried.
I took my forever to decide to buy the Anastasia Brow Wiz, as I just didn't think that it would be as good as it is. My eyebrows are dark blonde and I bought the shade Taupe with is the perfect match for when I get my eyebrows dyed monthly. I think the range of shades from the brand is the best on the market, and the formula is great. I also love that the spoolie is on the other end of the pencil as it is so handy and all in one place.

Do we share any favourite makeup discoveries?

Lucy
xoxo

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Monday 21 December 2015

Am I Mad for Boxing Day Shopping?


Last year me and my sister got to the Trafford Centre for 7.30am. Yes that is early, but I am going to explain why it a great thing to do. We always have family round on the afternoon of Boxing Day, so we have previously not been able to go shopping in the sales. But last year we decided to test it out, and be one of those 'mad' people. However, it was brilliant. We got there, was able to easily park, and was able to get all of our shopping done by 9.30/10am. We were home by 10.30am, with everything we wanted in tow. It was busy, but not over the top, and we missed the rush which started at about 10am. We had made a plan of everything we wanted, and which shops we wanted to go in. I would really recommend this as you don't end up wandering round, and also it keeps you on track to only get what you intended to. I didn't go over the top with what I bought, but I did have some things which I really wanted to get. My favourite sale shops are Topshop, Selfridge's, Zara and Lush. They all do really excellent sales, and their stock is always 50% off. This early shopping trip stops all the traffic queues, driving round and round looking for a parking space, and also online shopping all day. It also means we make it back home early, to help my mum prepare for the Boxing Day Christmas party at our house!

Am I crazy, or are a morning shopper like me?

Lucy
xoxo
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Sunday 20 December 2015

The 20 Emotions, Feelings and Thoughts of Buying Concert Tickets




I am writing this post just after having a 45 minute battle trying to buy Justin Bieber tickets. After printing off my order confirmation, I felt physically and mentally drained. This is a fun post about the all the typical thoughts and feelings which happen during the ticket buying process.

1. You log into your account early on the website you always managed to get tickets on, you're prepared and ready to go. You have your pc, laptop, tablet and phone at the ready. You can do this. 
2. You're all ready and prepared in your group text with your friends, to discuss who has the best tickets.
3. 9 am you get onto the page and get placed in a waiting room. I do not know where this idea has come from, but you just end up staring at your screen time and time again, as it tell you 'you will be placed in the room soon'.
4. 5 minutes later your still waiting to get into the room.
5. You log on to another website, and get placed in another queue, waiting the enter the room. You're thinking I need to keep my options open here.
6. You start to discuss on the chat how you've missed out. The we all hate the people who are selling them on ebay for 5x  the price debate starts, and you are all furious. But this does in fact drive me insane.
7. They announce another date you fly into a frenzy, and refresh every page possible. 
8. You feeling smug and are thinking to yourself, I've got this. Not everyone is going to know about an additional date. 
9. You put in the number of seats, SOLD OUT.
10. You're like what the hell how they have just gone on sale? Refresh. Sold Out. Refresh. Sold Out. 
11. Meanwhile, you refresh the other page on one of the many other devices which you have on the go, and BOOM you've entered the room on some site or another. 
12. You're too excited to actually do anything for a good 10 seconds, then you realise you're on a timer to get all your ticket preferences in on time.
13. Then reality strikes what if one of your friends has them too. You frantically type on your phone you are in the room, whilst watching the timer tick down on the ticket page.
14. Now to write in the security word, so you try your best to make no mistakes and do it as carefully as possible.
15. Just one moment please..... pops up on your screen. That 10 seconds, feels like 30 minutes.
16. It comes up and you have tickets. YOU HAVE TICKETS. 
17. Then you realise that you've never used this site before, and need to create an account and enter all your details. Once again, the timer is ticking and you are trying to make sure you don't mistype a number of your card details, and your hands are getting sweaty. 
18. You click that next button like a ninja, and so hard that you know it will make the difference.
19. You then wait... telling your friends where you're up to, and all that's between you and your tickets confirmation is the god dam timer.
20. The confirmation email is there in front of your eyes. You cannot quite believe. You let out a high pitch scream and do a little dance (or was that just me!) You have to tell anyone who will listen about your ordeal including the group message, your mum and every social media site possible. 

Has anyone else ever gone through these 20 steps? And everytime you tell yourself you will never do it again, but you do time and time again! 

Lucy
xoxo
.
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Saturday 19 December 2015

Last Minute Presents



If you still haven't finished or just about started (like me) your Christmas shopping, I have put together a few quick presents which you can get hold of pretty easy, in one quick, sweep shopping trip.

Pandora is a huge brand for jewellery, and I am a big fan myself. I think the Birthday Ring is a beautiful, and personal present for someone. These are £40, but if you know someone who really likes jewellery this a great present.
First up, what woman does not like perfume. Secondly, Jo Malone is the best kind on the market in my opinion. All their fragrances are colognes, and my favourite is the Nectarine Blossom and Honey Cologne. I have asked for the Blackberry and Bay scent for Christmas from my parents, which is another fruity, and beautiful fragrance. These are expensive as 30ml are £42, but they last for so long on the skin.
I think getting a designer t-shirt for Christmas is perfect for someone who likes their brands, like my sister. This Abercrombie & Fitch Tee costs £28 and has a lovely soft texture, and I love that the brand name is in rose gold. It is super versatile and I actually bought this one as a treat to myself.
I think the hardest presents to buy are the 'additional' gifts. This always happens when you have finished buying all your main presents, and you feel that you just need a few little extras. I think this Lush Cranberry Facemask is a perfect extra present, and is something which someone can use to totally relax and pamper themselves. It is also great value at just £6.75.
This Lipstick in Inhibition from Topshop, is also a great last minute gift to add to a present. This range has so many different shades, and they are a great price at £8. They are heavily pigmented, and do not need constant reapplication which is always a bonus to a budget friendly lipstick.

I think it is time for me to finally get cracking with my shopping, as there really is not much time left!

Lucy
xoxo








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Friday 18 December 2015

Kiko Makeup and Skincare Haul




Whilst in London I took a trip to the store at Covent Garden, where I picked up a few new bits of makeup. Everything was such great value, and all of this came to under £20.

I am a sucker for a face mask so when I saw Kiko's skincare range section, I was very intrigued. I picked up this Hydrating Mask for normal to dry skin. This mask is to illuminate and highlight the skin, which exactly what I need, and such a bargain for £2.90.
The Nail Lacquer in Vermilion Red is the perfect Christmas shade. For just £2.50, I have tried this out and for the price it is really excellent value.
I have previously tried some of these Infinity Eyeshadow a few years ago, and I was impressed with the quality of them. I bought two colours Metallic Golden Rose and Pearly Wine. I have been totally loving peachy, pink shades recently as an overall base colour, and Metallic Golden Rose seemed like a great shade to add to my collection. I have also been experimenting by using more red and purple toned shadows, and Pearly Wine totally caught me eye. They are such great value for £2.80, and I really recommend them if you are looking to add some new shades to your collection.
This was on the front display of the store, when I first walked in and I was instantly drawn in. When I swatched the Dazzling Highlighter in Bright Rose, I was really impressed with the pigmentation and the amount of illumination within the product. The highlighting stick has a soft, creamy texture which brightens the cheekbones. This was the most expensive product of my purchases at £6.90, but I have got high expectations for this, and I do not own very many highlighting products so I am excited to try this out.

Lucy
xoxo

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Thursday 17 December 2015

& Other Stories Hand Cream


I had heard about the brand & Other Stories from other bloggers, and have always been intrigued as to what they sell. Whilst in London my friend took me to the store at Oxford Circus, and explained how it is H&M's sister brand. The beauty and skincare range totally sucked us in, and we spent ages browsing the section. The best thing is that it is all budget friendly, and really affordable. I am always on the hunt for a good hand cream, and I was excited when I stumbled across this on the shelves for just £4. They have distinctive scents which run throughout their entire skincare and beauty range. I really liked the Punk Bouquet Hand Cream scent, as it is vanilla based and left a lovely, fresh scent once rubbed into my hands. I could have bought so much more than I did whilst I was in the store. I had my eyes on the Anti-stress Sleeping Mask which had a really smooth texture, and the Gorgeously Gentle Cleansing wipes had such a refreshing and calming scent. This is totally one of those moments where you wished you had just spoiled yourself there and then, as I really regret not picking up the other bits which I liked the look of. I think this calls for an online order having to be made sometime soon.

Have you tried any products from the & Other Stories beauty range?

Lucy
xoxo
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Wednesday 16 December 2015

Topshop Haul



This is the second installment of my week of London hauls, yesterday posts was a Christmas Lush Haul which you can see here.

I had some vouchers to spend in Topshop, and I had originally wanted to try and get a dress for over the festive period. Unfortunately I wasn't able to find anything, but I did find two things which I really like. The Brooklyn Sweatshirt is by a brand called Project Social T, who have their own petite concession range in Topshop. The clothing was really lovely, and I was impressed with the quality of their items. The jumper costs £30, but it is super soft and it was so cosy when I tried it on. It fitted really nicely, and it is a little bit oversized which is how I like my jumpers to be. This will be super easy to wear, and is perfect for those days when you just cannot decide what to wear. I also really love the pale grey shade of the jumper, as it suits my skintone really well.
This lipstick in Inhibition is definitely not something which I would naturally pick for myself. I think the colour is lovely, and has a satin matte finish. I think it would be great with a simple black dress and heels, and this lipstick as the statement to the overall look. I am really hoping that it suits me, as I have never been daring enough to try such a dark colour on myself before. I am definitely going to test it out this weekend, on a night out with my friends. I'll report back if it is a success!

Lucy
xoxo
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Tuesday 15 December 2015

Lush Oxford Street Christmas Haul




This week I am doing a series of hauls after my trip to London at the weekend, which you can read all about here.

I have been wanting to try the Cranberry Face Mask for ages. A lovely lush worker, took the time to go through how it works and tested some of the product on my skin. It has a very thick consistency, as it deep cleansing. It costs £6.75 for 75g. I think I will probably get 5 uses out of this, as I don't think you will need too much product for one application. It is for normal to dry skin, and leaves the skin matte and soft. The cranberries are an antioxidant ingredient to help brighten and replenish which sounds very exciting.
I have never tried the Angel Snow Melt before, but it looked so lovely I needed to pick it up. It costs £3.95, but I am definitely going to use this in two halves as it quite big and thick. It is rich in moisturising cocoa butter, which will leave your skin silky soft. The most exciting thing is that the gold side realises the shimmer, and turns your bath into a total glitterbomb.
I love, love, love the scent of the Cinders Bath Bomb. It costs £2.95, but it is smaller than the rest. The scent totally just makes me think of Autumn. It contains cinnamon, almond and orange oils which all smell totally delicious together. The little extra surprise is that is contains popping candy, which come out when it dissolves in the bath.
This is the only Christmas product which I have ever repurchased. The Candy Mountain Bubble Bar is so delightful and cute. They are £2.95, and I think you either love or hate this scent. It has a real sugary sweet scent, which I find is really lovely and relaxing. The main ingredient is vanilla absolute, which is one of my favourites. Once melted this bubble bar leaves your skin really soft and smooth.

Have you picked up any Lush Christmas products this year?

Lucy
xoxo
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Monday 14 December 2015

My Weekend in London











This weekend I had a lovely weekend in London seeing my best friend, who is a fashion student down there. I was excited to do some serious shopping, and just chill and relax, and have a well deserved catch up. 

On friday, we went into the huge Topshop on Oxford Road which was great. I loved all of the different concessions which they had in the store. We also picked up some Lola's cupcakes which tasted divine. We went to this incredibly cute burger place called Kua Aina, just off Oxford Circus, and it was incredible. I had the most amazing chicken and halloumi burger, which sweet potato fries. That evening we headed to Winter Wonderland, it was so big it was unbelievable, it was like a theme park. We had such a great time, we went on rides, and bought mulled wine and cider which was delightful. The atmosphere was great, and the place was filled with endless food and drink stalls, including a turning carousel ride which I was rather excited about. 

Saturday, was the day we had planned to hit the shops big time, and we did that rather well. However, before we started we needed some fuel. We had intended to go The Breakfast Club, but the queue was huge and we was starving. We went next door to a place called Ko Chai which was great and we had some amazing blueberry pancakes. We then headed to Canary Wharf where we went ice skating, which I loved and it is always so enjoyable. We then hit the shops. I totally fell in love with & Other Stories, that shop has some seriously good skincare and makeup bits, and I picked up an amazing hand cream for just £4. We then went to Liberty as it is always so fabulous at Christmas, I picked up a lovely Christmas tree decoration. The Charlotte Tilbury flagship store has just opened in Covent Garden, so we went in for a peek. It is nicely laid out, and it was seriously busy, but I resisted as my mum told me she has bought me a few bits for Christmas. The Kiko store is opposite, so went in to have a nosy and it was great. I bought a few things which will be in a haul post sometime this week. I really wanted to visit the Lush Oxford Street store, so we headed there it was so busy. I did pick up a few bits and bobs which was rather exciting, including the cranberry face mask. 

Before I headed home at 5.30 yesterday, we went to the Abercrombie & Fitch store. I bought a new tee for myself, and a Christmas present for my sister. For dinner we went into this amazing pizza and pasta place, where you go and order at the chef's bar, and they make it there and then in front of you. It was great and the food was lovely, and me and my best friend spent 2 hours in there just chatting, putting the world to right as always.

I had a fabulous weekend, and it's brilliant when you can relax and just catch up on everything. There is going to be many hauls over this week of everything which I bought, which I am excited to share with you. 

Lucy
xoxo

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Sunday 13 December 2015

Christmas Gift Guide for Him




The last installment of my Christmas Gift Guide posts has arrived. In case you missed the previous posts - guide for her and under £15. I find my dad the hardest person to buy for, so I have tried to pick a variety of different ideas for men of all different ages.

I think buying men a travel kit is a lovely gift, as they would never think about buying it for themselves. I have chosen the Ted Baker Mens Minis  as it contains a number of different body washes and sprays.
I really like this Striped Scarf from Next. I think it is great value for £14, and the colours running through it are really lovely. I don't think men would necessarily buy themselves accessories, but they are essentials for the winter months.
I think quite an obvious present for a man is a wallet, this one from Ted Baker is a real classic design. It is £40 and is real leather, and comes in Tan Chocolate and Black depending on their preference.

I often buy my male relatives designer t-shirts, as it not something which they would by for themselves. This Levi's Tshirt is £25, and is a simple design to suit a man of all ages.
I love both female and male fragrances from Armani, and their new realise does not disappoint. This Armani He Eau De Toilette Gift Set, is a lovely fresh scent. The set includes a 50ml fragrance, and two 75ml shower gels of the scent. 
Now, some men are really into their skincare, and if they are the Kiehls Ultra Facial Gel Cream is a perfect present. I think men should take just as much time as women do, and use facial products suitable for their skin. This is a brilliant well-known product for women in the beauty industry, and this will work just as well for men.

If the person who you are buying for, works for a business, attends a lot of meetings or simply has a lot of paperwork, then an organiser is a great and thoughtful gift. This J by Jasper Conran Tan Leather Organiser is £34, and is perfect for helping someone to get organised.
This Seiko Men's Silver Quartz Chronograph Watch from Debenhams is currently on a half price offer for £100. Seiko is a really good, well known brand for watches, I like the design of this watch, and the detailing on the face.
I really, like these Barbour Leather Utility Gloves from House of Fraser. They cost £55 which is expensive, but they will be last a life time if they are looked after. I love that they are fur lined to help keep their hands extra warm. They also come in brown and black, and they have nice detailing to them with the straps on the front.

Lucy
xoxo
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Saturday 12 December 2015

Rice Krispie Christmas Trees

I have had such a disaster making these. It all started when a rather blonde Lucy, did not think and picked up pink and white marshmallows, heads up just buy white. It turned into a rather lovely shade of - snot. So mum to the rescue she picked me up some white marshmallows on the way home. Here is how to make them correctly...






Ingredients:
3 tablespoons of butter
300g of WHITE marshmallows
6 cups of rice krispies
green food colouring
24 rolos

decorations of your choice..
icing
sprinkles
chocolate stars
chocolate beans

Instructions:
1. Place butter in pan, and melt on a low heat.
2. Add half of the marshmallows and stir.
3, Add the other half of the marshmallows, still on a low heat and leave to melt, stirring when necessary.
4. Add enough green food colouring until you have your desired shade.
5. Take pan off heat.
6. Grease your hands and spoon with a little butter.
7. Take a handful of mixture and start to form into your desired tree shape.
8 Add 2 rolos to the bottom of each tree, attach with a little icing.
9. Place on greaseproof paper to harden.
10. Leave for an hour.
11. Now to time decorate with whatever you have in your baking box!

I told you it is simple, however the marshmallow mixture can get extremely sticky so make sure you grease your hands as I ended up in a big marshmallow mess at one point. This should have been an extremely easy bake but into turned into a five hour process. Note to self - don't try and bake again!

Lucy
xoxo

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Friday 11 December 2015

The Best Budget Nail Varnishes


Today I bring you my main nail picks for the festive season. They are all drugstore polishes which cost less than £5. Here's the lowdown...

The Maybelline Superstay Nail Polishes are well known in the blogging world, as a great budget nail varnish brand. The shade Divine Wine is my favourite shade ever. It is super wearable and I love that it is a deep purple shade, which is perfect for this time of the year. I also really like from the line the shade Hot Salsa, it is a bit of a brighter pink shade, which looks lovely on your nails. These formulas are incredible for just £4.49. The brushes are wide and flat, meaning you need just one stroke to cover the entire nail. The nail varnishes also do not chip easily, as it has a thick gel like consistency.

I also am a big fan of the Barry M Gelly High Shine Nail Paints, I have been especially liking the shade Blueberry. At £3.99, they are also a great price for the quality of the product. They also have a gel like formula which has a high shine once dried. There is a huge range of colours within this range, and they are definitely worth checking out, if you are on the hunt for a particular shade.

I picked this KIKO Nail Lacquer last weekend in the shade Vermilion Red, and I have been wearing it ever since. I wanted the perfect red shade, and this does not disappoint. This is the cheapest one of the bunch for just £2.50. KIKO has previously been very difficult to get hold of. However, they are currently opening up a few new shops in the bigger cities and shopping centres, so hopefully you will be able to get your hands on their products much easier in the near future. I picked this up from the brand new store in the Trafford Centre.

If you like a little shimmer and sparkle at this time of year, then this shade in Cherry Space from MI-NY is a great choice. It is the glitteriest nail varnish which I have ever owned, and I love that so much of the glitter transfers on to the nails.  I picked this up in Italy over the summer, it is an Italian brand which is pretty big over there. They do have stores across Europe if you are taking any trips anytime soon, I suggest popping in if you are a nail varnish lover.

Lucy
xoxo

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Thursday 10 December 2015

Christmas Gift Guide: Under £15





I think the smaller presents are always the hardest to buy. Whether it is for stocking fillers or secret santa between your family and friends, it is hard to buy something which they will use on a restricted budget.

This Alphabet Filled Scented Candle from Next is such a lovely present, and has the personal touch with the letters on them. For just £4, they look so much more expensive, and I think I might have to pick one up for myself.
Soap & Glory always bring out such fab gift sets every Christmas, and this years do not disappoint. I choose to put the Belle of the Ball gift set in this guide as it contains some really lovely, and well known products from the brand, and is great value for £12.
I saw the Personalised Nutella stall in Selfridge's myself and was intrigued. I think it is a great additional present for someone. The jars are 400g and I am sure they are around the £10 mark. If you know anyone who is a real Nutella fan, then this is the present novelty present.

I thought these Penguin Bootie Slippers from F&F at Tesco, they are really cute. They are £12, and are great for girls of all ages. I love that they have the little wings on the sides, and the fact that they are soft and snuggly.
I was surprised to see that this Charlotte Tilbury Makeup Bag from Selfridge's was just £15. Charlotte Tilbury is a high end makeup brand, and I think most people would think that this costs much more than it actually does.
Oliver Bonas do some really nice personalised gifts, including this Alphabet Charm Necklace for £14. I would love to receive this myself, and I think I am going to get this for my sister as a little additional present.

I love getting stationery bits and bobs for Christmas and I think these Anchor Mini Notebooks from Paperchase are really lovely. These would be great a student, blogger or someone who likes to constantly jot things down. I think they are great value for £5, as Paperchase can be expensive sometimes.
I am a big fan of Tanya Burr's cosmetic line, and I think this little set is a great present for someone who likes makeup or is a fan of Tanya's. The Tanya Burr Merry Kissmas set costs £10, and includes an exclusive makeup bag which contains two miniature lipglosses and one of her limited edition shimmer pots.
I am a huge fine of Fleur De Force's eyelash range, my favourites are the Fleur & Fabulous lashes. They sit really nicely on the lash line, and give just the right amount of flutter. They are not over the top or too long, and they look very natural. They are great value for £5.95, and I think they are just as good as MAC lashes. These are perfect to go in a stocking for a girl who loves to dress up!

Have you seen anything which you fancy picking up for Christmas?

Lucy
xoxo


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Wednesday 9 December 2015

Christmas/Festive/Blogmas Post Ideas


If you are an everyday blogger or you are taking part in Blogmas this year like me, you might be lacking in ideas for the rest of the month. I thought that I would have so many festive ideas for my blog, but I had a little brain block and came up with a list of my own. I thought I would share it with you guys, to spread the Christmas love.

For you beauty bloggers...
1. Favourites festive makeup
2. Christmas day makeup
3. Beauty Christmas gift guide
4. Day to night makeup
5. What's in my handbag
6. Top 5/10 festive lipsticks
7. Your go to night out hairstyle
8. Christmas nail varnishes & nail art
9. Skincare routine
10. Beauty stocking fillers

Fashion bloggers...
1. Favourite Christmas jumper
2. Favourite party/works do outfit
3. Christmas day outfit
4. What you want for Christmas wish list
5. The best secret santa gifts
6. Christmas look book
7. Must have winter accessories
8. The best of the Christmas sales
9. What I got for Christmas
10.What to wear on New Year's Eve

Lifestyle & food bloggers...
1. Christmas markets within your hometown
2. How you decorate your tree
3. The best Christmas decorations 2015
4. DIY Christmas cards & stockings
5. How to do Christmas on a budget
6. Why you love Christmas and your family traditions
7. Last minute gifts
8. Festive drinks - mulled wine & hot cocoa
9. Rice Krispie Christmas Trees
10. Christmas cookies (how to make and decorate)

Lucy
xoxo
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Tuesday 8 December 2015

My Favourite Festive Makeup


I've picked a few favourite makeup choices, which I will be wanting for throughout December. At this time of year it is the perfect opportunity to embrace all things glitter, and have the guts to wear those daring lipsticks which have been collecting dust.

I am kicking thing off with my favourite palette of 2015, the MAC Warm Neutrals Palette. This palette costs £65, however for 15 eye shadows it is excellent value. It contains so many well-known and best selling eye shadows which are fabulous and I cannot stop using. The array of eye shadows are perfect for all occasions. My favourites are Amber Lights, Honey Lust and Gingersnap.
The Nars Sheer Glow Foundation is such a lovely, glowy foundation and has become one which I am able to rely on. For this time of year, I don't like to wear a foundation which is too heavy on my skin, and this is perfect as this is light and non cakey. It is expensive at £31 but if you do fancy treating yourself this would be a great choice.
This MAC Blush in Peachykeen is the perfect pinky shade with some peachy tones running through it. I think that MAC blushers last for so long, and it is a purchase which you will definitely get your moneys worth from. If you are looking for an everyday blusher then this is the perfect choice, as it suits so many makeup looks.
If you have been reading my blog for a while, you will know I am super fussy when it comes to mascaras. I have two which I use, and my current favourite is Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara . This is such great value for £7.99, and the wand has the perfect curve on it to give you luscious, long lashes.
Obviously this was going to be on my favourites as it is my most worn lipstick ever. It is the MAC Brave Lipstick, and I just totally adore this shade. It suits my skin tone, and always brings together the simplest make up look.
If you are more adventurous in your lip choices, the Nars Cruella Velvet Matte Lip Pencil is a perfect option. I love the formula of these lip pencils, and this colour is a cult classic. This is a great one to choose if you are a newbie to red lips. The pencils glide on super easy and I find the best way to use them is to line your lips first, and then slowly fill in the rest of your lips. For me, this prevents smudging and overlining your lips.

What are your favourite Christmas choices?

Lucy
xoxo
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Monday 7 December 2015

The Best Christmas PJs



If you saw last week's installment, I did a The Best Christmas Jumpers post which you can read here. Today I bring you The Best Christmas Pyjamas. Every year without fail, I buy myself some Christmas pyjamas and I think lots of other people do to. So to save you trawling the internet trying to find your perfect pair, I've put together a selection of the best ones on the market this year.

First up, The Snowman and The Snowdog  these are from ASDA and are an excellent price at £14. I thought this is the perfect pair for someone, who does not like anything too loud or over the top. The Snowman is a traditional Christmas character, and they are great for anyone who loves the film.
You can't have a post about the best Christmas pyjamas, and not feature something gingerbread themed. These are the cheapest of the bunch from the F&F range at Tesco and cost just £10. The Gingerbread Man set are a traditional design with the gingerbread lady and man, and their little gingerbread house. I think they are really lovely, and a pair which anyone would like.
These are the pyjamas which I think I am going to have to buy for myself. They are the Robin Fleece PJ Set from ASDA for £15. They are super cute, I love how the top is big and cosy, and the bottoms are more fitted. They are adorable and I love robins, so these seem like my perfect pair.

The Christmas Santa Globe pyjamas are super cute and festive. If you want to go all out on the Christmas theme, then this is a good option. I love the santa and the tree in the snow globe, and the pants are super cute with the trees printed all over them. For ASOS I thought they would more expensive than £18, I was pleasantly surprised.
For all us internet lovers out there these Green #Elfie  pyjamas from Next are totally perfect. I love how they are quite a simple design, yet so effective. I think the slogan is simple, but so clever at the same time. I laughed out loud when I first saw them, therefore they had to go in my recommendations.
Now this Christmas Bauble  set from ASOS, is rather cheeky! They are a cute, fun pair of PJs which is what Christmas is all about, and are reasonably priced at £20.

You can't have Christmas without a bit of Disney at some point. This Beauty and the Beast pair from Topshop are really just god dam cute. They have the classic winter wonderland theme, and you could definitely wear them after Christmas. The pants are super adorable with all the other characters printed on them. When I first saw these, I went aww to myself as they are really lovely.
Now, if you like festive pyjamas I think this is my best offering, the Robin 3 Piece Pyjama Set are from Debenhams and is the most expensive set at £32.50. But, they are really nice and are the definition of festivity. The jumper is oversized and fluffy, and I can imagine it to be so warm. The leggings are just as over the top as they have robins covering them. The best novelty part is you get a robin eye mask in the set, just to complete the overall look, and basically turn yourself into one giant robin.
The Polar Bear PJs from Topshop, are another pair which are simple but still festive. I think they are really nice, and would make a lovely present for someone for Christmas as they are more of a winter theme, with the snow and icicles.

I hope you have found yourself some perfect Christmas pyjamas, if you have any favourites please let me know in the comments.

Lucy
xoxo

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Sunday 6 December 2015

Christmas Gift Guide for Her





I have mentioned this MAC Warm Neutrals Palette so many times on my blog. But this is such a perfect present. I got this for my birthday, and it is one of the must used presents which I have ever received. This costs £65, but it is such great value as for 15 eye shadows individually it would cost over £150. If you know someone who wants a few MAC shadows or is struggling to choose a palette for themselves, then this is your chosen one. I would definitely choose this over any of the Urban Decay palettes, as the shade selection is so much better, and every shade is wearable.

I have actually bought these Scotty Dog Slippers  for my mum... sssh don't tell her! She is constantly asking my dad for a scotty dog, as they are totally adorable so I thought these would be perfect for her. I think slippers are a perfect present for your mum and nana, as they are a present which you know they will wear, and will get good use of it.

Pandora jewellery is one of the best presents to give. I love, love, love all of their delicate designs, and I especially love their rings. I  have the July Birthstone Ring (£40) and the Heart Stacking Ring (£35), and they are both perfect presents are they are stacking rings. The birthstone rings are a great present, as they are personal and a statement piece of jewellery.  I have a few stacking rings, but this heart one is my favourite. They look so lovely stacked on top of each other. I love how they are such a simple, yet effective design.

The Jo Malone Nectarine and Blossom Honey Cologne is my favourite fragrance ever. I got this for my Birthday in July, and the scent is heavenly. I adore fruity fragrances, and this is so fresh on the skin. As this is a cologne, the scent is really strong, but not too overpowering. This lasts a seriously long time on the skin, and there is no need for a refresh throughout the day. Jo Malone do some sensational Christmas gifts, and such a wide array of products including candles and body lotions. It is a present which you can guarantee that they will like.

Gloves are an essential for the time of the year, where I live up North it is particularly cold at the moment. These Jack Wills Turnpike Stripe Mittens are so adorable, and are the warmest gloves which I have ever owned. The mittens have a really thick fur lining inside them, making them super warm and cosy. This type of gift is something in which someone would not necessarily buy for themselves, but it is an essential for the winter months. They are also a luxury presents as they are £24.50, but you can buy the matching scarfs and hats as well if you wanted to splash out on them.

I have actually bought this present for someone, which I am obviously not going to reveal. But I am really jealous, as the Smashbox Mini Double Exposure Travel Palette is totally gorgeous and I would like one for myself. However, I am going to be good and give it to the intended person, as I know that they will really love it. This actually is a lot smaller than I expected, it is rather tiny. But, the shades within the palette are beautiful and all shimmery and gorgeous. If you know someone who travels a lot, or you think could do with some revamp within their eye shadow collection this a great palette for them, and not too expensive at £17.50.

I hope you have enjoyed this post, keep your eyes peeled for my other gift guides which will be on the blog sometime this week.

Lucy
xoxo
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Saturday 5 December 2015

Nip + Fab Party Prep Glycolic Set




In the Black Friday sales, I picked up the Nip + Fab Party Prep Glycolic Set from Boots, it was half price for £7.42 and an offer I couldn't resist. I have been wanting to try some products from Nip + Fab for a while now, but never knew where to start. I thought this set would be the perfect introduction to the brand. This is said to brighten and refine in two quick steps for party ready skin, and who doesn't want that!

The first product is the Glycolic Cleansing Fix, which is a deep cleansing and purifying formula to help create clean and radiant skin. That sounds like the perfect kind of cleanser to me, and I am hoping it is not too harsh for my skin as I am prone to blemishes and break out. The second part of the kit is the Glycolic Fix Cleansing Pads. You get 60 pads which I think is really great value. I've heard great things about this type of cleansing and exfoliating pads from other brands, so I thought this would be a great way to try them without wasting too much money. I was surprised and very happy to see witch hazel within this product, as that helps to calm and tone the skin. It is also a brilliant product for blemished prone skin so I have high hopes for this to do it wonders on me.

Have you tried any Nip + Fab skincare?

Lucy
xoxo


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Friday 4 December 2015

November Favourites



Once again, I do not feel like November has particularly flown by, but I have had a really great month where lots of nice things have happened. Call me Scrooge, but for me and my family, you can only start getting into the festive spirit once December 1st arrives. So as we are now a few days into December, and I have dug into my advent calendar, and bought some tinsel, I am finally getting into the spirit.

Within November I have had lots of beauty and skincare favourites which I have been very excited about, as that doesn't happen that often. The Tanya Burr Candy Glam Palette has been my go to since I bought it right at the start of the month. I was that impressed I wrote a dedicated post to it, which you can read here. This has been sold out so much throughout the month, as for £10 it has been such an in demand product. I really love the eyeshadows as they have great pigmentation, and there is a wide variety of colours in the palette. Unfortunately, this has been taken off the website as it is now sold out, but if you are quick you will be able to get it in a Superdrug store.

The Essie Nail Polish in Chubby Cheeks, has been constantly on my nails this month. It is the perfect in between orange and red shade, and it was beginning to get me in the mood for Christmas. I love the formula of Essie polishes, and I definitely need to purchase some more. If you have any must haves please let me know!

The Antipodes Vanilla Pod Hydrating Cream featured in my recent skincare update post. The hydrating cream, does exactly what is it intended to. The texture is quite thick, and adds moisture into your skin, I use this every morning. I have continued to use this moisturiser every morning, and it is still doing the job perfectly. It sinks into the skin lovely, and does add a good dose of rehydration into the skin.

Finally, Lush bath products in general have been a big part of my relaxation time during November. I have had an extremely busy month, and I have really enjoyed having a relaxing bath, with a bath bomb and catching up on missed TV and YouTube videos. I have bought the bubble bar Candy Mountain previously and loved it, so I was excited to see it back in their Christmas range this year. It has a lovely, relaxing scent of vanilla and I love how it turns your bath into a baby pink extravaganza.

What have you been enjoying in November?

Lucy
xoxo

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