ASOS Velvet Black Boots

Velvet is everywhere this season, and I have been wanting some black velvet boots for ages. I have seen a few different pairs in a variety of shops, but they have all been above the £70 mark which I cannot afford, especially with Christmas just around the corner. I was having a little weeknight browse on ASOS when I came across these velvet lace up black boots. I was not initially sure about the lace ups, but when they arrived it makes them look more classy and expensive. As there was a 20% off Unidays discount offer on, I ordered them straight away. For £38, I think they are really great value, and I have officially assigned them my Christmas season shoes. I am no longer into wearing huge, strappy heels which are often very uncomfortable, and now I opt for a good old pair of heeled boots.

When they arrived on my doorstep on Sunday morning, they were just as beautiful as I hoped. The velvet is soft and they are super dreamy. I am worried that the velvet might get ruined quite easily, especially in the rain so I am going to have to be really careful with them. The block heel height is 3 inches which I find is just enough to still look dressy, and be able to be comfortable all night. I am really excited to give these their first outing, and I have already planned it for a night out in 2 weeks when I go to London.

Do you like the velvet trend?

Lucy
xoxo

Get To Know Me - 50 Facts About Me

I thought as I have had my blog for over two years now, it was time for you guys to get to know me a little better. So here is 50 facts all about me...

1. Student Children's Nurse
2. Hate bananas
3. Favourite colour is pink
4. Have a phobia of trauma to the eye
5. Fall in love easy
6. Favourite shop is Selfridges
7. My shopping dream is to own a pink YSL bag
8. Want to get more piercings - top of the ear
9. Want to travel the world - everywhere!
10. Passed my driving test first time
11. Want a small dog once I get my own house
12. Love ginger hair on boys
13. Ideal man would be Prince Harry
14. Obsessed with PLL
15. Size 3 feet
16. Gold is my favourite colour of eyeshadow
17. Would to go to NYC on a huge shopping spree
18. Actually really good at saving money - so tight!
19. My favourite place to go on a date would be the seaside
20. 5 foot tall
21. Really loved school
22. 1/8 Irish
23. 1/8 French Canadian
24. Would love to own a flat in central Manchester
25. My dream job if I wasn't a nurse would be to do something in fashion/blogging
26. My style icon is Lauren Conrad
27. If I hadn't of a nursing degree would definitely of done history
28. The thought of being buried alive absolutely terrifies me
29. My first job was at 15 sorting out files at my dads work for the entire summer
30. One Tree Hill was my most watched programme as a teen
31. Favourite place I've ever visited is Italy
32. I hate getting on a train with my suitcase as I'm too small to reach the overhead cabinets
33. Want to be a bridesmaid I'm 21 and it's my dream! Hurry up people....
34. Do want to get married and wear a beautiful lace ivory dress
35. Want to have twins (my dad's one so hopefully!)
36. Not a fan of cats at all
37. People who are disrespectful and overly confident grate on me
38. I believe in karma and it is a bitch
39. My favourite meal is Spaghetti Bolognese and it has been since I was tiny
40. When people don't lock doors - they're there for a reason
41. My dream car since I was little is owning a black convertible Bentley
42. Want to achieve everything in life which I set out to
43. Favourite cocktail is a strawberry daiquiri
44. Rubbish at all sports at school
45. Danced for 18 years of my life
46. Support Manchester United
47. Frankie Bridge is my idol
48. Hate being alone
49. Getting bored sooooo easily
50. Like cooking and baking

Lucy
xoxo

Skincare Update

A month ago, I decided it was time to invest in some new skincare products. I placed a feelunique order where I picked up two minis from Antipodes these were the Vanilla Pod Hydrating Day Cream and the Divine Face Oil.  I like both of these products, especially the day cream. I like a morning cream to have quite a think consistency and this has that. It has a lovely fresh scent, which is exactly what you want first thing in the morning. You have to give it a good blend, in order for it to be fully absorbed into the skin. Less is definitely more when it comes to this, which is great with a product of this price. It feels really hydrating and gives, the skin an overall boost. I have never used oils before, so was a bit anxious about using this. However, I am slowly getting round to liking it. It definitely takes some getting use to. But this isn't too overpowering or thick on the skin which I really like. It definitely adds moisture, and hydration into the skin, which is exactly what I need before I apply my makeup. These work really well combined together one after the other, and this has become my morning routine after cleansing.

For my night time routine, I have introduced the Antipodes Joyous Protein Rich Night Serum. I really, really wanted to love this, but I can't. I thought this would be perfect for my dry skin, but I simply do not like anything about it. My most disliked factor of all for me is the scent of the serum. I thought it would smell delightful, as it contains blackcurrants and berries. However, to me the smell is really off putting, I can't put my finger on it's exact scent but it is not nice. It is very thick and it lingers on top of my skin, even when I have only used half a drop. It just does not seem to work well with my skin at all, which is hugely disappointed. On another note, the product which I have been most impressed with is The Body Shop Tea Tree Blemish Night Lotion. The texture is lightweight, soft, and silky, and sinks into the skin very easily. It is aimed for blemish prone skin, which is exactly what I need. I do not necessarily think that my skin has had a grand transformation since using this. However, my skin has not got any worse, and I think that with further use I will see more results. It does has a strong tea tree scent, and personally I don't find off it putting as it is refreshing and cooling.

Have you got any new skincare treats?

Lucy
xoxo

Autumn Edit: Nails

I recently picked up my first ever essie nail varnishes. This may be a shock as I have had my blog over two years now, and for some reason I just haven't ever purchased an essie varnish in my life. This is despite, lusting after so many different shades in store and on other's blogs. I know that the shades I picked up are not necessarily your classic autumnal shades, however I have fallen in love with both of them. Chubby Cheeks is my favourite of the two, the vibrant mix of orange and red. This will look great worn in the festive season, and will definitely get me in the Christmas spirit.  Flawless is a pale pink, I usually always go for more brighter shades but this caught me eye. I like to be able to have nail varnishes, which you can rely on to look neutral for everyday wear. In terms of the range of colours which essie sell, they have a huge array and I am definitely going to pick some more shades up soon. I like the formula of them both, and they did not chip particularly easy. The only downfall is that the tip of the brush is quite thin, and I much prefer a thicker brush like the Maybelline Super Stay 7 Day range.

Do you have any essie recommendations for me?

Lucy
xoxo

Tanya Burr Candy Glam Palette

Last week, I was super happy when the Tanya Burr Candy Glam Palette  landed on my doorstep. I have been wanting this for a few weeks since it got released as it had been continuously out of stock. I signed up to the emailing service where they notify you when its back in stock. I got an email to confirm it was back in stock, and a few hours later it was sold out again. So last Tuesday when I got another notification, I made sure I ordered it there and then so I didn't miss out again. This is currently on offer for £10 (£12 full price), which is really great value for what you get in the set. You also get free delivery with your Superdrug health and beauty card.

This beautiful palette come with 9 special edition eyeshadows purposely made for the palette in the shades - snowflake, chandelier, plumberry, creme brulee, date night in Paris, ballet slippers, baking brownies, teddy bear and starry night. It also contains a blusher in pretty peony and a bronzer in beach bronze, which both feature in one of her new cheek palettes. This palette finishes up with a lip gloss in the shade daydream. I was dying to try this out straight away, and first impressions are that the eyeshadows are beautifully pigmented. The shades are gorgeous and I have been particularly loving plumberry and creme brulee, they are so wearable and are definitely going to be my go shades. I think the 9 shades have been really thought out, as there is such a good range of shades and colours It is really versatile as you are able to make a simple everyday eye look, but add intensity with the darker shades within the palette for a more smokey look. Many have been comparing the beach bronzer to Nars' laguna bronzer. I have to say it is similar, I think it is a little bit lighter in the tones running through it which I really like, and it is a great bronzer. It is one of the best parts of the set for me. The blusher is following along the lines of Nars' orgasm blusher. I find this very shimmery, and quite a vibrant pink. I made the mistake of doing a big swirl in the pan, and my cheeks were like disco balls! So a little differently goes a long way, but if you don't like a highly shimmering blusher, I don't think this would be necessarily suited to you. All in all, I am really impressed with this set from Tanya, and it would make a great Christmas present to someone wanting to try a range of products from her range. I think it will become super handy when I am travelling, as it contains so many essential products all in one place.

Lucy
xoxo

My Updated Marble Background

I recently decided that I needed a new marble background, and whilst browsing on Asda's homeware department I came across this Marble Print Worktop. I love the effect which a marble background creates on photos, and I will use this regularly for my blogging photos. I thought this would be a great alternative to my original marble background, which I bought from Wilkinson's. It was a sticky back adhesive, and it does do the job. However, it gets really dirty and can spoil really easy. Whereas, as this is glass it is super easy to just wipe clean, and keeps in perfect condition. This was £5, which is such great value. I love that this has slip resistant stands on the bottom. so it stays right where it is when you are taking your photographs. It is not top heavy to carry or move, which is an added bonus. I am super happy that I managed to find this, and for such a great price.

Lucy
xoxo

Autumn Edit: Perfumes

I love buying and receiving new perfumes, so I thought I would let you delve into my current favourites.

First up, Honey by Marc Jacobs, I have recently got back into loving this. It is super sweet which is what I like. I am not into woody and overly floral scents, I will always gravitate towards a fruity scent. I can instantly smell the mandarin and orange in this, and then when it settles the scent of the peach and honey really come through. I would probably see this is more is a Spring/Summer fragrance, but to me if I like a perfume I will wear it all round.

If you have been a reader of my blog for a while, you will know since my birthday in July when I received this I have been totally adoring it. It is the Jo Malone Nectarine Blossom and Honey, it is my first ever cologne, and you can completely tell the difference. It is much stronger and fresher, and lasts so much longer on the skin which is exactly what you want. You would think that this would be very similar to Marc Jacob's Honey as it has similar ingredients, but in fact they are very different. They both contain nectarine and honey, but this has additional notes of plum and blackcurrant, making it not quite as sweet. Also, in this you can smell a hint of floral notes, which adds an additional twist and freshness to this.

I have had Vera Wang Be Jewelled in my collection since last Christmas, when I picked it up in the boxing day sale in Selfridge's for half price. I am so glad that I picked it up, as it is really different to anything else which I had previously owned. When researching exactly what was is in this, I discovered it actually contains champagne - how amazing! This is a girly fragrance, and is once again fruity. It contains different scents completely to the previous two as this is primarily red currants, and of course champagne.

Viktor & Rolf's Bon Bon is such a unique and fresh fragrance. As always it is a fruity scent, containing orange and peach. But the secret to this, is that it contains caramel. It adds the sharpness to the scent, and turns into a dreamy mixture of total heaven when settled into the skin. The packaging of this is really adorable, and looks delightful placed on your dressing table.

What is your current favourite fragrance?

Lucy
xoxo

6am - 6 Products in 6 minutes

6am means simple makeup and most of all as little products as possible as I simply do not have the time. I complete my simple skincare routine containing Clinique Cleansing Foam Wash and then apply my Antipodes Vanilla Pod Day Cream.

First up for my base I apply my L'Oreal True Match Foundation, using my new Real Techniques Sponge, which has been working really well. I really like this foundation and I like the medium coverage which it offers. I love the great shade range available in this collection. The inevitable Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer, gets applied to my face most mornings. I need a high coverage concealer to help hide blemishes especially around my chin, and this works perfectly. Sometimes I will apply a powder and bronzer, but most mornings I opt just for Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Incandescent Electra (the middle shade). This blush is perfect and adds dimension and a light shimmer to my cheeks. It is great for my fair skin tone and adds some live and glow to my face. My favourite ever eyeshadow is MAC Woodwinked Eyeshadow. As much of a bold statement in which this is, there isn't an eyeshadow in which I own which I use as much as this. It is the perfect mid toned golden shade, adding just the right amount of shimmer to the eyelid. As you can see I have practically nothing left, so next time I am in Selfridge's a new one needs to be purchased. I literally apply one coat of the Maybelline Lash Sensation Mascara to my eyelashes. and they instantly make me look 10x more awake than I actually am. This mascara gives a really lovely curl and adds volume. The Anastasia Beverley Hills Brow Wiz is the best eyebrow product which I have ever used. I love that this is a two in one product with the spoolie on one end and the product on the other. I quickly brush my brows through with the spoolie, and then apply the pencil in natural stokes along the natural shape of my brow. It works a dream and takes me less a minute to get them just how I want them. The shade range is brilliant I have the shade Taupe, and it is a great match to my natural hair colouring.

What are you essential morning products?

Lucy
xoxo

My 28 Days Shopping Rule

My 28 day shopping rule is coming quite famous amongst my friends, so I thought I would explain a little further. An old friend from primary school posted on Facebook saying she's just found £600 of clothes in her wardrobe with tags still on. I quickly explained my 28 day rule, and she said shes going to take it on, as she knows I am a 'shopaholic'. My other friend then commented saying that shes incorporated my rule, and it has worked a treat, so I thought it was time to share it. Having £600 worth of clothes with tags on is an extreme example, but it can be easy to do when you get drawn in. A lot of my friends have graduated this year, so they have just gone into full time work for the first time, and I'm already looking forward to that pay myself. Is it sad that I'm already planning out a year in advance what I'm going to buy? I ain't going to be earning thousands, but it will be a lot more than what I get currently. I took a gap year before I came to uni and worked practically full time in retail. I remember getting £600-£700 in my wage and literally not knowing what to spend it on, as I had previously got £200 from just working the weekends. On pay day I would always take myself into town, and go a little manic. Topshop was always my go to, and my motto was I've earned it, I can treat myself. It didn't help that my best friend was on a gap year too, and it was our little monthly treat to ourselves. I was naive, but it was my money and it was always only going to be for one year. But after a few months I  had piles of clothes which still had labels attached, and  had never been worn. I had a uniform which I would wear 5 times a week, and I simply didn't need a mountain of new clothes every month.

 Thankfully I learnt quickly, and me and mum invented the 28 days rule. Every 3 weeks or so, I would go through my wardrobe and anything with a label on would be taken out and put on a pile. I would look at the receipt and the date in which I bought it. If it was getting close to the last return date usually 25/26 days it would be returned by the 28th day for a full refund. They was a few rule exceptions including  - unless I had an item for a planned occasion, it would be returned that weekend. This rule works an absolute treat now, if I've had lots of opportunities to wear an item and I haven't then I simply don't love it. I only keep things which I love, and I know this as I don't return many things now. If I love an item I want to wear it straight away so it will never make it anywhere near the 28 days anyway. How many times have you looked in your wardrobe, found an item, and looked at your receipt and it ran out yesterday! It's so infuriating and you just end up keeping an item for the sake of it.  Incorporating some simple rule for yourselves works a treat, and honestly you will save money which you are currently wasting.

Now, I don't know how you store your receipts, but I used to have that scattered across 5 different handbags, in my purse, coat pockets and across my bedroom. But now I have a plastic wallet which I keep all my receipts in, so if you need to return it you can, and with ease. I also think this is really important for faulty items, as having proof makes your case so much simpler.

I have changed a lot since three years ago on that gap year when I was 18, and it has differently done me some good. I differently think that I still treat myself a lot, maybe even too much still, but that is how I choose to spend my money. At the start of the month, I think about how much I want to spend that month on myself. I think about all the plans which I have made, to see friends and planned days out, as this can totally differ from month to month. Obviously taking into account all the important things like bills and all other necessities. I also look at how much I had left from last month, and usually move it into my savings account, as I love knowing I have that as a safety net for when I need it. I then set aside a certain amount, my mum always calls me a 'careful christian', or in my dads words 'tight'. I just hate the idea of wasting money, I thoroughly think about big purchases. My sister is the total opposite she's on a much bigger budget compared to me currently, but she really does not have a care in the world. I sometimes think I wish I was a little more relaxed, but I hate the idea of being literally penniless. I hate not being able to do anything at all because your down to your last tenner, because you went on a night out and bought a new dress which you obviously could not afford. I simply like to set myself a little budget, say £50 a month to spend on clothes and makeup. Like I say everyone's budget is completely different and when I'm working full time this will obviously increase. This is only a guidance, and if I've not bought much within a month I will treat myself to something extra. 

I hope this inspires some of you shopaholics to be a bit more thorough and ruthless with your shopping habits!!

Do you have tips and tricks to help you save?

Lucy 

xoxo

Home Wishlist

I love browsing homeware items online and in store, I've put together this little wishlist of all the things in which I hope to buy over the upcoming weeks and months. I think some simple, but effective home furnishings can really turn a house into a home. I have found this since moving away to university buying some things which have a place inside my room, makes me feel a lot more homely.

This metallic & candle is from West Elm which is a brand which I have never shopped at before as I don't think there is a store within my area. However, the shop online is really lovely, and features so really unique pieces. I am a sucker for candles and this is totally up my street.
Now I know this only a marble ceramic plate, but I have been wanting this for ages. I think that it will look really effective in blog photos, and I was planning on ordering it online I then learnt that H&M have opened a section in the Trafford Centre Selfridge's so I am definitely going to pop in next time I am home and pick this up.
I don't really know what I would do with this copper plate! However, once again I think it would look effective in blog photos as a statement part of a photo. I also think it could look really on my dresser, with my perfumes placed on it.

This rectangle art deco mirror is a unique shape, and I think is simple but quirky. I love mirrors which hang on a chain and this would look great hung above my dressing table.
I have seen these copper alphabet letters in a few shops, and have really been wanting to pick one up. But to be honest I am not quite sure what I will do with this. I saw this one from Oliver Bonas and was surprised at it being just £10. Oliver Bonas is a fab place for home decor and an order is going to happen in the imminent future.
How gorgeous is this brushed check throw? It is from Next who have a great Autumn/Winter range in at the moment. I think a feature throw like this can add so much character to a room, and it is such a simple accessory. I love checked designs anyway and these colours are perfect for Christmas.

This wire basket  from H&M is perfect for storing bigger beauty products like dry shampoo, lotions and skincare. My products are always scattered everywhere and this is such a pretty storage idea, to keep everything together and easy to access.
I was instantly drawn to this embellished cushion. Cushions are my absolute weakness, I adore them. I love having them on my bed, and having seasonal designs. For £16 it is not cheap, but this would look great as a central piece of your bed or sofa with plain cushions on either side.
I have seen these designs of lights on a few people's blogs and YouTube channels, and I think they're are cheesy, but also quirky. I like the star light the best as I think it would add some overall vibrance. and make my room look less plain and boring.

What is on your home wishlist currently?

Lucy
xoxo

November Wishlist

I have been  looking for some Knee High Boots for ages now, and when I spotted these online from Next I really fell in love with them. I want a suede pair, and I like the intricate detail on the front of the boots. I think the wooden heel is a gretat contrast compared to the black suede of the boots, and I they look really chic and sophisticated.

I saw a girl at uni wearing this River Island Off The Shoulder Top, and it look really lovely and stylish on her. I love the cold shoulder design alongside the tear drop neckline. I think it looks much more expensive than £22, and I am 100% picking this up on payday.

Buttoned skirts are everywhere this season and this Miss Selfridge Camel Button Skirt definitely does not disappoint. The design of this looks very high end, so at £30 it is definitely a great piece to have within your wardrobe. I love a line skirts, as they can be so flattering as they emphasis your waist and skim over you thighs, which is exactly what I need.

The colour of this Zara Burgandy Soft Tote  is what caught my eye to it originally. The TRF range from Zara is my absolute favourite, and they always bring out such great value bags each season. This is so well priced at £19.99, and I think the simple detail of the buckles complete the bag. This is a great size, as you can fit all your handbag necessities in, without it looking too big.

Since making this wishlist I actually went into store and pick this Zara Stripped T-Shirt up. It such a lovely, unique design, I like how jazzy it is. I would say that I usually get a XS/S in Zara tops, but this is sized exceptionally small and a M fits perfectly. Zara have brought out a wide range of tees for £12.99, including this and they are really great value for money.

This River Island Long Line Check Shirt is not something which I would naturally venture for, but I think it would be a great piece to have this season. I like the longer length as this meanings you could wear the shirt with leggings and jeans. It is something you could easily pop on easily and wear it with some thing simple as it is a detailed design.

Whilst browsing I came across this Topshop Denim Dress, and I instantly thought oh that will look nice! This is a really lovely autumnal piece, the long sleeves and button up make it a little bit warmer. I think would a make a great layering piece, you could wear this with a tee shirt and jeans, unbuttoned. I also think this would like great fastened up with my fur gilet, it is not cheap at £40 but I think I would get a lot of use out of it, and I really want to snap it up as it belongs in my wardrobe.

I simply put this ASOS Lace Up Cold Shoulder Top in my wishlist, for anyone needing a fancy top which is suitable for all occasions. At £20 it is a top which you can wear casual in the day with jeans and flats, or you can dress it up at night with a skirt or cigarette trousers with some heels.

I have featured cigarette trousers in a few wishlists, and I am still yet to pick some up. This month I totally love these aubergine Topshop Cigarette Trousers. I think these are a very versatile piece of clothing to have in your wardrobe. I can see myself wearing these a lot when getting to closer to the festive period, as I love wearing trousers which can look classy but also dressy when I head on night's out.

What have you got your eye on to pick up in November?

Lucy
xoxo

October Favourites

This has been the only month of the year so far, which I haven't thought has flown by. However, holy smokes November is just around the corner which means Christmas is well on its way.

Up first, the Hourglass Blush Palette I rediscovered this palette of dreams this month, and by golly am I glad that I did. This is not only so aesthetically appeasing - just look at the marble effect on those blushers. But most of all, the pigmentation is like nothing else which I own, these are way above anything from MAC. They glide on so easily, and the formula is so finely milled every aspect of the product is picked up and transferred on to my face. The palette contains three shades which are completely different which is what I totally love about this, as there is so much variation within the shades. Luminous Flush is the perfect everyday pink to add a glow to the cheeks. Incandescent Electra is the shade I have been using the most this month, it is a baby pink which adds the perfect amount of natural colour. Mood Exposure looks very scary in the pan, but in fact it is a great autumnal shade as it is slightly nude toned and looks gorgeous with a berry lip. Unfortunately this palette is no longer available but you can pick up the individual shades.

This month has been all about getting back into the routine of 6am starts which has not been easy. This means I don't want to have to shower in the morning, as an extra 10 minutes in bed will always win. Therefore, my trusty Batiste Dry Shampoo has been my best friend to help make my hair look a little more alive. It is super easy to use and I think it is the best one on the beauty market. With a few sprays my hair looks instantly refreshed and less greasy, and it just adds some overall life back into my hair.

MAC Brave is a satin finish which is lovely as it adds an overall polished finish to your lips. Its a dark pink with beige running through it, I always have this in the depths of my handbag as it is just so wearable. It is the perfect in between shade as it is not too light and not too dark, and honestly you can wear this shade with anything. It is hands down the most versatile lipstick which I own, and everyone should have it within their collection.

My mum bought me this Just Pink Reed Difusser  as a little extra for my birthday back in July. I brought it to my room away at uni, and it has taken a firm place on my side cabinet next to my television. I love how fragranced it really is, and the scent fulfills the room. The Just Pink scent is Next's best seller, and no wonder as the scent is floral and very fresh. This is such great value at just £8, compared with some other difussers which can be really expensive. I think this would make a perfect present for someone's birthday/ Christmas.

What have you been loving in October?

Lucy
xoxo

Body Shop Sale Haul

Another lovely blogger gave me the heads up that The Body Shop had a rather large sale, which she was not lying about. I could not believe the prices of some products, and I quickly made an order before all the bargains were snatched up. There is a huge sale already happening on the site with products being up to 50% off. However, I got my hands on a sneaky 40% off code, which took an extra 40% off all products sale and non sale. As you can imagine things were pretty cheap, all the prices mentioned are with all the discounts.

I could of gone absolutely crazy, but for once I reigned myself and only bought things which I knew that I would use. I have never tried anything from the beauty range from The Body Shop, so I thought I would take a risk and order one of the Colourglide Shine Lip Colour in the colour Rose Quartz I actually really like this colour and I can see myself getting good use for it. At just £1.20 I could not complain. This was the biggest bargain I would say, I love their lip butters they are great for seriously dehydrated lips, and they are not too rough on the lips. The Chocomania Lip Butter was just £0.60, I think I might gift this to my sister as the scent seems more up her street, I think it would be a little sickly for me. I decided to switch it up and go with the Passion Fruit Shower Gel,  I have been currently using the Strawberry version which is lovely. The consistency of these gels are silky smooth, and I really like that the scent lingers on my skin after washing it off. I was in desperate need of a new hand cream, with all the hand washing on placement my hands get so dry and cracked around my knuckles. Therefore, I thought I would test and try the Soft Hands Kind Hearts Hand Cream to see if it does the job. On first impressions, I really like the scent of this, it is not too overpowering and it seems to do the job pretty well. Unfortunately, the Cranberry Bath Jelly seems to be now be sold out online, but you can get in store if your quick! I have never tried this before but the concept sounds great. The tub is huge and for £1.80, I am hoping it makes both me and my bath smell delightful.

The only product I didn't purchase from the sale was the Tea Tree Blemish Night Lotion. When reading the description it was something which I felt I needed to incorporate into my night time routine. I am currently trying to develop the perfect skincare routine, morning and night and I don't have any targeted blemish treatment in it currently. My skin is very much acne prone, I've had acne since the age of 13, even though it is now mild I would like it to be gone well and truly. For £6 it was a product which I was willing to take a risk with, and I hope it helps my skin.

All together it came to £12.60, and with the voucher code of 14317 I also got free delivery over orders of £10. I am not a 100% certain when this code expires, but if you sign up to their emails, they continuously have offers on all the time.

Lucy
xoxo

My Blogging Schedule - How I Get The Balance

Within the #bbloggers chat on Wednesdays and Sundays, which I have been totally loving joining in recently, I have seen a lot of bloggers asking how people get the right blog/life balance. I think this is very tricky as everyone has so much going on in their individual day to day lives, it can be very easy to take on way too much. I thought I would put this post together, just letting you know how I have got into a good routine recently which I have really found has taken off the overloaded pressure which I was taking on. Obviously it not going to suit everyone, but even if it gives you just a few tips which you might not have thought of, or you can adapt to suit yourself. I also love reading these posts from other bloggers, to find where I can improve and utilise my time effectively.

Now I am not going to lie or exaggerate but I am a busy person at the moment. I am currently in the last year of my degree which is intense as it is. I also work as I get barely anything to live off thanks to the lovely NHS bursary people - no lying £20 a week. But thankfully I have amazing parents who help my out with my funds so I can at least eat, pay petrol and socialise every once and a while. I am also currently on placement as part of my degree which have 12 week blocks of placement, this year I have two weeks off for Christmas in the middle of it. The shifts can vary from long days which are 7am-8pm three times a week, or night shifts 7pm-8am. I could alternatively have a mixture of early shifts 7am-3pm, and late shifts 2pm-10pm which you would do five of in one week. Attending uni is always running alongside placement, along with one chunky assignment every month. I then need to find time to socialise with my friends and take the occasional trip home to see my family. The hardest thing to differently balance is my blog.

My blog is really important to me, and for me to have to face taking a few weeks or months off from it is a really daunting thought. It is something which is very personal and I feel very passionate about. Overall, it brings me a lot of happiness and joy, which is why I keep making posts. I did struggle massively last year, with getting into a blogging routine, and I never really did find my niche and that was the problem. Come this September I knew it was definitely time to finally get organised. When I am at uni and not on placement, I always plan to have at least one morning or afternoon of my weekend to take my photos and write my posts. The most important thing for me is to take my photos at the weekend, and to edit and upload them. This way I know that they are all prepared. If I don't manage to get all of my posts written up at the weekend I don't stress. If I finish uni early or I know that one night I will have a few hours free, I schedule that time to finishing preparing and writing the posts. This is harder when I am on placement as I often work nights and weekends. However, planning ahead and taking a few hours of one day to photograph, and a few hours later on in the week to finish writing and finalising posts seems to always work well.

Brainstorming is the newest addition to my routine, which sounds crazy but it's true. I previously just went with the flow blogging about what I wanted, when I wanted, which was fine. But after investing in my now life saver of a notebook, I now wonder where it has been all my life. At the start of the month I take a page and put all the dates of the days in which I will be posting on down the left hand side. For me my routine has been Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, and I have really been enjoying this formation. This is actually an addition post to last year but with a little bit of organisation it is no extra stress. I then put the name of the post, and a section split into two saying 'post' and 'photos'. I then tick once completed so I know exactly where I am up to, and what is still left to do. I do everything in pencil as I often change my mind, and it makes everything much simpler. This has been an absolute game changer for me, and after a month of this plan I already feel so much more relaxed and in control of where I am up to. I usually brainstorm a lot of ideas at the start of the month, and write a big list of all my ideas. I then fill them in within my notebook of where I think they will work best. I always leave gaps as I know that new ideas will always occur and will need somewhere to fit it. It is really easy if you pencil in your monthly posts, such as favourites and wishlists start away where they belong on your schedule so those dates are taken.

For me currently uni is my priority, and blogging is a hobby. At the end of the day, I want a career as a nurse and I haven't spent three years at uni for nothing. Whilst other people have other hobbies and find time for them, I take this same attitude with my blog. I think a lot of bloggers put too much pressure on themselves to always deliver, but everyone is different, and leads different lives and some times it is simply not possible. I like to always be one week ahead knowing that I have one or two posts scheduled, and therefore not having to be stressing myself out about not having a post for the next day. However, if this was to happen at the end of the day it is your blog, and you blog when you want to, and more importantly when you can. You do not want to just put a post up which you are not happy with just so you have fresh content, as it is not a true representation of you and your abilities. Sometimes I also am just not in the mood to blog at all, and I have find that when I feel like this I shouldn't as I am simply forcing myself to write content. A little tip I would say that if you maybe have a few days off from college/uni/placement/work, is to possible try and prepare a bank of posts. I have started to find this super useful, even just start to draft posts and ideas to give you something to work off. Last Sunday, I spent the morning taking photos for four posts, and I managed to write and schedule two there and then. It is definitely about utilising your time. On Sunday mornings, if possible I like I lie in bed catching up on TV and watching YouTube videos for a few hours. But I also use this time to get myself some breakfast, a hot drink, and sit and plan and draft posts. Like I have said I understand, that not many peoples life's will be the same or even similar to mine. I will finish by once again reinforcing, it is your blog, your schedule and your life.

What tips do you have for getting your blogs organised?

Lucy
xoxo

feelunique Order

After last weeks #bbloggers chat on Wednesday night, I was informed that there was a sneaky offer on Feelunique.co.uk where when you spent £25 you got £10 off. For me this is one of the best offers which I have seen in a while, and there has been a few bits which I have been wanting for ages, so I took advantage of the offer and made a few purchases.

I have been wanting to try the Fleur DeForce lip glosses which are exclusively available on the website since their release last month. What I find intriguing about this product is that it is a mixture of a lip gloss and a liquid lipstick. There are six colours in the range which I think are all really beautiful, making the decision of which one to choose really difficult. I watched Fleur's video on her range approximately 10 times deciding what colour I wanted! I finally decided on Starlight which is a really beautiful mid toned pink shade. I was going to go for a brighter shade but as I am currently on placement until Christmas, I thought this would be an excellent everyday shade to add a pop of colour to my lips. At £6.99 I think these are really great value, and I have really high expectations for them, as from the swatches in her video they look super pigmented and smooth. 

Next up, I picked up the Antipodes Moisture Boost Mini's Kit. I have been wanting to try Antipodes as a brand for so long now, like literally months. The price tag has always been what has put me off as it is by no means cheap, it is definitely a high end brand. I have been wanting to try both the Divine Face Oil and the Vanilla Pod Hydrating Day Cream, so this little set instantly caught my eye. For £12.99, after doing some sums it works out to cost the exact same amount in terms of the amount of mls in each product, compared with buying the full size versions. I am super excited to have finally got my hands on this set, and I am going to be instantly putting both products to the test. 

Now I know they sell this in Boots and Superdrug, but I have been meaning to pick it up for some time now and I keep forgetting. I have heard so many great things about the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge, and it was finally time for me to try it out for myself. It is described as a 3 in 1 sponge - having the rounded sides to blend, the tip for precision and the flat edge contours around the nose and eyes. I have always been impressed by Real Techniques products and I recommend their brushes to anyone who will listen!

I was super excited for this package to arrive, and I was even more happy as it only came to the grand total of £15.97. An added bonus was that I also got free delivery, as they offer this service on every order over £10. I will let you know as soon as they have been put to the test how I get on with these products, they are sure to feature in up and coming posts here on my blog.

Did you pick anything up in the offer?

Lucy
xoxo

My Three Current Beauty Must Haves

This Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara is the first mascara that I have ever bought and liked compared to my holy grail which is Maxfactor's False Lash Effect. In my makeup collection mascaras is something which I do not buy or often try. I think I currently own 3 or 4 mascaras and that is it, I have bought so many over the years and have hated so many of them. This from Maybelline however, has fast become a part of my every day makeup routine which I have been super happy about. I bought the latest waterproof version and it has been working really well. I think the best feature of it is the amount of length which it gives my lashes. I feel like the formula is slightly too wet so with this, less is definitely more.

My official first Autumn purchase was the Maybelline Color Sensation Matte Lipstick in Divine Wine. I do not own anything like this, I have never previously been brave enough to branch out into such a dark berry toned shade. But I have really been loving it, it has not been my go to lipstick for everyday due to its dark colouring. However, every night time occasion which I have recently had, this has been on my lips. It is really pigmented and I like how it is has a red tone running throughout it, as I have fair skin it is not too overpowering.

I have been using this for a few months now, and I am only just getting round to featuring it on my blog. The product in question is the REN Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Gel. It is a soft gel which you gently rub into your skin and then wash off, and I find that it works really well. As it states it is a gentle cleanser, and is very calming and soothing on the skin. I think it works great for my skin type which is dry and acne prone, as the ingredients are very simple and contains nothing to complicated to upset my skin.

What are your current must haves?

Lucy
xoxo

Autumn Edit: Beauty

These seasonal edit posts have become a huge favourite of mine this year. Last week I did an Autumn Edit: Skincare post which you can have a read of here. Today we are talking all things beauty which excites me hugely. I took me a good few days to formulate what products I wanted in this post, but I got there in the end!

The Maybelline Lash Sensation Mascara has been something I wanted to pick up for ages, and when my beloved Maxfactor False Lash Effect ran out I thought it was finally time to branch out. It's so hard trying to choose a new mascara as there are so many out there on the market. I am super happy with this as it adds lots of volume and length which is exactly what I need. I have the waterproof version which is an added bonus.

This is my third MAC Skinfinish Powder as I just cannot find anything which compares to this. I wear the shade Medium which is a brilliant match for my skin. It is not too heavy on the skin, and it is build able depending on individual preferences. It has a finely milled texture meaning it is breathable, and helps to set my base makeup really well. One of these powders lasts me about 6 months, I also love that it has a mirror in the packaging as it is just so convenient.

Autumn screams berry shades to me, and this  Maybelline Lasting Sensations Lipstick in Divine Wine is the perfect addition to anyone's lipstick collection. It is not too dark as that is what worries me about darker shades, as I have a pale complexion and I think some lipsticks can be too overpowering. You do have to keep up with applying this, especially after eating as it fades a little bit due to it being a matte finish. I think this range is a really good drugstore range for matte lipsticks, I just wish they would expand the range a little bit more.

Rimmel Cocktail Colour Nail Polish in Hawaiian Punch (not available online) is a lovely dark pink with shimmer, it has a red undertone which is what I like and it seems more season appropriate. The formula is quite thick and I only need one layer, which is such an advantage as I don't particularly enjoy painting my nails! I think this colour however is very versatile for both day and evening.

The Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation has featured in quite a few recent posts over on my blog. It has now become a firm favourite and I think it is really great for the a Autumn season as it is a medium-high coverage which is what I like for the colder seasons. This has a really good lasting power, when used with a good base and a primer.

Sephora Lip Cream in Manderin Muse just had to feature in this post. This is my favourite lip product of the moment, the formulation is sensational. It is so pigmented with just one application, and I actually really love how bright and bold this is. I think orange is lovely for this season and adds a pop of colour to a simple golden eye look. If there was a Sephora in the UK I would definitely have every shade from this range. It is one those products that until you have tried them, you can not quite understand how amazing they really are.

I have a love/ hate with eyeliner, and I am very particular with what I use. I have tried both pencil and gel before and I have always gone back to liquid as it is what I find easiest to use. I have always headed towards the drugstores for eyeliners and this Rimmel Scandal Eyes is by far the best of the bunch. It has a really thin nib which is what I always look for. I always want something which is going to make precision as easy as possible. I also want something long lasting as I don't want it flaking off as the day goes on.

What are your Autumn essentials?

Lucy
xoxo

Black Dungarees

I have been wanting some black dungarees for at least 2 months now, and I have not been able to find myself the perfect pair. I ordered some off ASOS twice and both pairs were faulty, which was such a pain. I then set my heart on some in Topshop and they had them in the Petite range, which I saw as an added bonus. However, I am only 5 foot tall and they were way too short on me, and I did not like the design of the ones in the regular range. I spent the whole of last Saturday shopping around for the perfect pair and I finally found this pair in River Island. I went for the black slim leg style, as that is what suits my body shape the best. I was so happy as they fit really well, I have to turn them up once or twice, due to them being in the regular range. I like the turned up look anyway, and they fit exactly how I wanted them to. They were not cheap at £48, but I am going to be able to wear them a lot throughout Autumn and Winter.

They are super easy to wear, and you can throw on all different types of tees underneath them. You can dress them up, or down like I have for a lazy Sunday with my new white leather converse. I think they are a staple piece to have in your wardrobe, and they have been everywhere this season. I featured here on my blog a light denim pair of dungarees earlier in the Summer which you can read about here. I have worn them to death, which is surprising as I was not too sure about them when I first got them, it's great as I will continue to wear them into the Autumn. It is really lovely as girls at uni are always asking me where I got them from, and complementing me on how much they like them. I wanted the black version as an alternative, and like I say I think black is more season appropriate. I can style them with cosy knits, my leather jacket or a structured coat. I know not everyone loves dungarees and I was in that camp, until I bought my first pair. I swear if you find the right fit, style and colour for you, you will be able to rock them and do it well!

Do you love or loathe dungarees?

Lucy
xoxo

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation

This Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation is the first high end product which I have bought in a while that I haven't instantly loved. There was huge hype around the release of this product, and I had my eye on purchasing it at some point. As I already own Nars Sheer Glow I was going to wait for it to run out before I picked it up. However, when I headed into my nearest Selfridge's and I saw the huge display of the foundations I was really intrigued. I had some birthday money which I had not spent, so I decided to treat myself.

I actually had a really bad experience with my assistant colour matching my skin. She originally matched me to the shade 5, but my sister noticed it was a little too dark and so did I. I do have to say that I had just got back from my holidays and I was a little tanned, but I felt that it was still dark for my skin tone. The assistant tried to convince me that shade 5 was correct, but I asked her to apply the 4.5 to my skin for comparison. I felt that this was much closer to my skin tone, even with my slight tan. I therefore decided to go with the shade 4.5, I really like that they have shades which are just half a shade darker as it can make a huge difference to getting an exact match.

I was dying to try it myself, so the next day I jumped at the chance to use it. First impressions, I was not totally convinced at its 'magic' properties, and I found it a bit disappointing considering the £29.50 price tag. I found that it was quite drying and clung to dry patches. For this foundation I definitely need a primer, I use the Laura Mercier one which works really well. It definitely took a few days before I started to like this, and fully understand how it works. Whereas with the Nars Sheer Glow it was instant love. After a few uses I realised that it was in fact actually working well with my skin type, it was just different to anything else I have previously used. My skin is quite dry at the moment and I have noticed that it does in fact add some glow and dewiness. It is a demi-matte finish which is something new to me, but I like the way in which it sets. I would say that it is a medium-full coverage, which I really like compared to Sheer Glow which is lighter. My skin is acne prone, and sometimes full coverage foundations feel very heavy and cakey on the skin. This still feels light and fresh which is one of it's best features. I used the Real Techniques Expert Face Brush to apply this, and it works really well giving an even coverage to the skin. It contains SPF 15 which is always an added bonus to any face product. In terms of it's longevity since day one I have been impressed. It lasts a good amount of hours, and I do not feel like it sinks in or sits on top of my skin.

Have you tired or want to try this magic foundation?

Lucy
xoxo

Autumn Edit: Skincare

I discovered the Evercalm Cleansing Gel from REN, in the Harvey Nichols sale and I have been completely in love with it ever since. Out of everything in this post, this is my must have skincare product for this season. I bought it completely clueless about the product, but it sounded like the perfect, gentle cleanser to help clear my skin. I have been testing this out for a good few months using it a few times a week at night, and it makes my skin feel so smooth and cleansed. At £15 it is much cheaper than other high end skincare cleansers, and you get 150ml which is going to last me for a while.

I have recently rediscovered the Clinique Anti Blemish Cleansing Foam. I was using this religiously before the summer, and I forgot to take it home with me. As soon as I arrived back at uni last month, I started using it again most mornings, and I feel like it does cleanse my skin really well. I feel like it helps to reduce and prevent my acne from worsening. It is £18, which is by no means cheap but it has lasted me a good 6 months, and you only need one pump of the product for the entire face and neck.

The Body Shop Vitamin E Overnight Serum was a product which I had hanging around in my skincare stash forever, before I started to actually use it. I have never really been into serums but this is a 2 in 1 serum and oil, and it is a perfect combination. It does help to replenish dull skin, and helps to refresh and brighten the skin. Even though it is oil based, it is none greasy and absorbs into the skin really well. You only need a few drops, and I think it is a great find at £15 as serums are usually rather expensive.

The Soap and Glory The Ultimelt was something which I heard many bloggers writing about as a cheap alternative to many high end versions. I am a bigger lover of Soap and Glory as a brand, and have bought many skincare products from them and I have always been impressed. If you have acne prone skin like me, you will really love this. It also helps to fight clogged pores, and I love using a mask as it feels like it has reached the lower layers of skin. It really is a deep cleansing product to use 1-2 times a week to help rebalance and thoroughly cleanse. This is currently on offer for £6.67 from Boots which is great value.

Garnier's Micellar Cleansing Water has been a firm favourite of mine for months now. You can see that I have used about two thirds of it up, but it has latest me a good 5/6 months as you get 400ml per bottle. It states you get 200 uses which is probably precise, I used this is my first cleanser every night. I firstly take off my eye makeup which it is brilliant for, as it breaks everything down super easily without being rough. For my skin I find it very soothing, and I like that it is water as it does not leave a sticky residue on my skin. I used Bioderma for ages but swapped to this for convenience, and it is just the same quality and half the price.

The Sanctuary Moisture Boosting Mask is such a great drugstore one stop product to help clear and hydrate your skin. You can get your hands on these in Boots, and they sell a few different variations including the clay detox version which I also really like. But as the weather gets colder, my skin gets dried and I am always in need of as much hydration as possible, and this is exactly what this does. It contains lavender oils which help to replenish and add some glow back into your skin.

What are your Autumn skincare must haves?

Lucy
xoxo