Caroline's Catwalk

A Festive Day Out in Edinburgh

2016-12-17T12:00:00.000+00:00

Edinburgh is one of my favourite cities to visit. I've been lucky enough to go over the past few summers for the Fringe festival and whilst up there I've discovered many hidden gems the city has to offer resulting in me falling in love with Edinburgh more and more. I'd never visited in December before so decided to remedy this and hopped on a train at the start of the month for a day out to see the festive lights and to tick off some of my Christmas shopping. It has a great mix of high street shops including a H&M Home, Jo Malone and a recently opened Joules, alongside department stores decked out for the festive season and some great independent shops to explore.

Our first stop (following a traditional filled morning roll for breakfast.. would any trip to Scotland be complete without?!) was to head to St Andrews Square to see the ice rink and watch the skaters. I would definitely be the person going round using one of the penguin supports!

Princes Street Gardens houses the traditional European Christmas Markets where you can browse the many stalls taking in the sights and smells of whats on offer from the many food stalls including European cheeses perfect for your Christmas celebrations to the delicious mini Dutch pancakes, a variety of flavours of fudge, and not forgetting to enjoy one of the warm mulled drinks on offer. I highly recommend the Winter Pimms, it's surely an essential to keep warm in such cold temperatures! There's lots of cute decorations to buy to take home to create your own winter wonderland. Alongside the markets you can explore the Christmas tree maze, ride the Santa train, or see Edinburgh from above (if you dare!) on the Star Flyer. If you're looking for something a little more tame there's the beautiful traditional style musical double-tiered Carousel which is much more my level!

After all that walking we visited one of my favourite bars Tigerlily to refuel and enjoy one of their delicious cocktails. I highly recommend the goats cheese's wrap, I'm still dreaming of it now!

The Street of Light illuminates West George Street and is definitely a must see if you're in the city this month. Comprising over 60,000 bulbs you can watch the lights synchronised to music from 6pm every evening. Edinburgh looks even more magical lit up at night especially during the festive season.

Have you visited Edinburgh this Christmas?

10 of the Best Comedy Shows to See at Edinburgh Fringe 2016

2016-08-24T20:32:00.001+01:00

Fringe-goers you know the drill, everyone wants to stop and tell you about their recommendations of the latest and funniest show they've seen and so here I am shouting about the best shows I saw during my week at the Edinburgh Fringe..

BEASTS Present Mr Edinburgh 2016

19.00 at Pleasance Dome daily until 29th August
I saw the wonderful guys from BEASTS perform at a charity comedy gala on my first night at the Fringe and knew I should see more! We luckily managed to grab tickets from the half price hut and went along one evening. Usually sketch shows would leave me feeling unsure if it would be my sort of humour but BEASTS completely blew that out of the water! I don't think I stopped laughing from the minute they burst on to the stage to compete for the prestigious honour of 'Mr Edinburgh 2016' Watching the guys perform to win various rounds was a complete riot. I don't want to give too much away as you all need to go and see the show for yourselves but I must add that I had a sore throat from laughing so much (and at times crying with laughter!) and if that isn't high praise I don't know what is!

Hayley Ellis: FOMO

21.35 at Just the Tonic at The Community Project daily until 28th August
I saw Hayley at the Fringe back in 2014 after a picture of her super cute dog Kevin on her Fringe posters drew me to her show which turned out to be one of the funniest I saw that year! I've followed her on twitter since and recommend you all do the same (@Hayles_Ellis) In 'FOMO' Hayley discusses how we all compare ourselves to those friends we see on Facebook (you know the type!) as we fear are we missing out? How we question what we should have achieved by now, doubt if we're good enough, and how our lives on social media don't always reflect the true picture. She happily chatted with the crowd as we discussed what we'd put on our own vision boards for the future and left us laughing throughout!

Al Porter: At Large

22.40 at Pleasance Courtyard daily until 28th August
The Cabaret Bar at the Pleasance Courtyard is the perfect venue for Al Porter's show, it lends itself to a slightly rowdy audience who are mostly a few drinks down by that point in the evening. Al had us screaming with laughter (no literally, the ladies near us did not stop screaming!) as he entertained us with tales from growing up in Ireland, priests and waking up abroad after a particularly big night out. He bounces off the audience in his trademark camp and mischievous style which leads to further laughs from the crowd. A great show to really get you laughing!

He's Simple, He's Dumb, He's Daniel Cook

13.20 at Just the Tonic at The Caves daily until 28th August
On our last day at the Fringe (sobs) we decided to seek out some more free comedy and ventured along Cowgate to The Caves to see Daniel Cook. As with most free shows you're taking a punt on how it'll be but from the minute I sat down I could see he has such an energy that we just knew it was going to be funny. He kept us laughing throughout the hour despite the humid conditions that day (I always wonder how Fringe performers survive in the heat of the venues!) with tales from his life and everything in between.

Ashley Storrie and Other Erotica

17.15 at The Free Sisters daily until 28th August
I love listening to Ashley and her mum Janey on their weekly podcast so knew both of them were must see's for me this Fringe. Ashley played to a packed out room on a wet Wednesday afternoon and she had us all in stitches from the start entertaining us with tales of erotica, turning 30 and being booked to perform at a particularly dry BBC Christmas party! She has a great way of interacting with the room and embracing the crowd, I'm the sort of person who would often be worried to sit at the front at a comedy gig but I'll happily head to the front row for Ashley!

An Act of Godley: Janey Godley

19.00 at The Free Sisters daily until 28th August
As mentioned above being a big podcast fan (I often listen to it whilst driving and then fear other drivers wonder why I'm in hysterics!) I knew Janey would be similarly busy to daughter Ashely and we made sure to join the ever growing queue 30 minutes before she was due to start. As expected Janey helped to seat everyone she could but it was standing room only at the back as the crowds gathered to witness Trump's No1 fan (disclaimer: this is a joke!) Some would describe Janey's comedy as not for the easily offended but if her material offends you there's a strong chance you need to have a word with yourself!

Axis of Awesome: Won't Ever Not Stop Giving Up

21.00 at Gilded Balloon Teviot daily (not 25th) until 28th August
I remember first hearing Axis of Awesome on Scott Mills shows from the Fringe a few years ago and loving their mixture of comedy songs. After seeing them at the charity comedy gala earlier in the week we managed to fit them into our ever growing Fringe show schedule. Go along and see them show how many songs are actually based on the same 4 chords! I can't stop singing the Bucket List song to myself and there's even one for KFC fans in there!

Jenny Collier: Jen-Hur

17.30 at Underbelly Med Quad daily until 28th August
Jenny Collier is another of the comedians I've seen a few times at the Fringe. She doesn't go for the loud brash style some seem comedians seem to adopt but rather welcomes the audience in and you feel like you're listening to a friend (be it one of your funniest!) She talks about being Welsh and her previous job history and always gets a laugh from me with her well timed witty one liners.

Soon Kempner: Queen

12.10 at Underbelly Med Quad daily until 29th August
I've seen a couple of Sooz's previous shows (I loved 2014's 'Defying Gravity', who doesn't love Wicked!) and particularly enjoyed how she combines music with original comedy songs. Sooz discusses her parents divorce as a teenager, a certain character assassination email from her father, the successful career of her brother (impressionist Luke Kempner) and that time she never heard back from 'Jim'll Fix It' leaving poor Sooz feeling like even Jimmy wasn't interested!

Felicity Ward: 50% More Likely To Die

21.00 at Pleasance Courtyard daily until 29th August
Felicity Ward is my favourite funny Aussie and possibly the comedian I've seen the most times at the Fringe (4 years and counting!) Her shows are always fresh and funny. This year Felicity talks again about mental health and her own anxiety as she recounts the day she left her bag on the bus. From excellent bus etiquette, to self help meditations, to chicken karaoke Felicity once again had me laughing until I nearly fell out of my seat! She manages to convey the underlying messages of the show and still leaves her audience feeling upbeat.

Who have been your Fringe favourites?

10 Tips For Visiting The Edinburgh Fringe Festival

2016-08-05T09:00:00.000+01:00

The Edinburgh Fringe kicks off today and I can't wait to head up there next week. This will be my 6th year at the Fringe so I like to consider myself somewhat of a Fringe veteran when it comes to planning a visit there. Here's 10 tips for getting the most out of your visit to the Fringe..

1. Book in advance any shows that you really don't want to miss out on but try to make sure to leave gaps. Part of the fun is some of the shows you'll come across whilst you're there. You might read a great review or get chatting with an enthusiastic comedian handing out their flyers and you want to be able to fit in seeing them.

2. When planning which shows you're going to go to make sure to leave gaps in between shows of at least 30 minutes. It takes time to walk between venues, some might be across the city and it could take a while to get a taxi during busy times. You don't want to have to leave the show you're at early to try and make it to the next, and you don't want to be sneaking in late trying not to be seen (and inevitably end up sitting on the front row!) Some venues have multiple rooms so even if your shows are based around the same venue allow time to find out where you need to go.

3. One of the best tools for planning a visit to the Fringe is undoubtedly the Ed Fringe app. The app makes it easy to browse and search for shows. You can add shows to your favourites and schedule them in your own personal planner. One of my favourite things about the app is the 'nearby now' feature which uses your location to display shows starting soon nearby. This is great if you've got a free hour or two and are wondering what to do next.

4. Wear comfortable shoes. It might sound obvious but you could potentially end up walking a lot between venues. There's quite a few hills and lots of cobbles so make sure to wear something suitable so you don't end up with sore feet halfway through the day.

5. Take a waterproof jacket or umbrella with you. In my experience (thinking back to the summer when it rained practically the entire week I was there!) the weather in Edinburgh can be quite temperamental, one minute it's pouring down and blowing a gale, the next the sun's back out and you're questioning if you need to apply suncream.

6. Wear layers! Fringe venues spring up all over the city and range from large auditoriums to tiny pop up cabins and they can get very hot with numerous people packed in so you want to be able to take your jacket or cardigan off. I watched Jenny Collier from the top deck of a very warm double decker bus back in 2014!

7. Visit the food trucks at Assembly George Square Gardens. Last year there was lots of great street food options including tasty gyoza's, fish & chips, burgers and you can sit and people watch (and no doubt be handed numerous flyer's!) If you're looking for something sweet stop by the crepe stand in the garden by the Gilded Balloon.

8. Go to see a compilation show. I really recommend 'Best of the Fest' for a chance to see a variety of acts. It's a great way to get a taste of whats on offer and should give you some inspiration for more shows you'll want to see. The lineups are released the day of the show on the Assembly website.

9. Many of the best shows I've been to have been part of the Free Fringe. Go along and discover some great comedians. Even though it's free you should give what you can afford (think how much you would spend on a ticketed show) Make sure you have change on you to put in the bucket at the end of the performance. I try to save £5 notes whilst I'm there to take with me.

10. Visit the Half Price Hut on the Mound to bag a bargain ticket. They're available the evening before and the day of the performances. You can also find out which shows are included via the app.

Have you been to Edinburgh Fringe?

You Know You're Nearly 30 When...

2016-01-03T18:00:00.000+00:00

In celebration of my birthday this week here's a list of how you know when you've nearly reached the big 3-0...

Image Source

1. You walk into a bar secretly hoping they might still ask you for ID and then delight if they do and realise how old you are

2. You mourn your Young Person's Railcard and its discount.. why is there no in-between railcard?!

3. You happily drink red wine after years of only having white or rose. Red wine was something your parents drank it wasn't for you, now you'll happily drink all the wine

4. You don't have a clue who's at number 1 in the charts and you're still surprised to find out it's no longer on a Sunday evening

5. You find yourself switching to Radio 2 more and more. You ain't got no time for dance music pre 10am. All the DJ's you used to listen to on Radio 1 seem to be on there now too

6. You keep thinking about your 30 things to do before you're 30 list and wondering why you haven't managed to buy your dream house, travel round the world and achieve all your goals in the last 12 months

7. Weekend plans revolve around brunch. Forget clubbing, brunch followed by just a quick drink in that bar.. which inevitably turn into several more. You can recover tomorrow on the sofa with a Come Dine With Me marathon

8. You walk through Topshop and know to head straight for the beauty section or handbags. You pass by the rails continuously questioning what is it, is it a top or a skirt?! You know to keep on walking

9. You get excited about going to a Farmers Market.. even if it's just to buy all the cakes, bread and cheese

10. You're expected to have a fully fledged skincare routine and to have been using anti ageing products for the past 10 years, you know, just in case. You know never to mention make up wipes to beauty consultants on the make up counters, you may as well tell them you've been washing your face with rocks

11. You can't cope with hangovers, especially as they now seem to last all weekend

12. Your social calendar fills up with weddings, hen do's and baby showers

13. When you're filling in a form you're annoyed when you now have to tick the next age bracket

14. You enter a bar and it's one of your groups job to secure seats, you don't want to be standing up all night

15. You start to make practical purchases, yes you need that fancy new blender. It's surely the key to your sparkling new healthy lifestyle

16. You find yourself talking about something that happened at Uni and then realise it was 10 years ago

17. You don't understand Snapchat and you're happy to leave it to the 'young people'

18. You realise you don't need to wear skyscraper heels on every night out, you'd much rather be able to walk without having to remove your shoes halfway through the night

2016 Goals

2016-01-01T14:00:00.000+00:00

I'm generally not a big fan of New Year's resolutions and the cliche 'New Year, New Me' that we inevitably see doing the rounds at this time of year. I think it only serves to put unnecessary pressure on ourselves. As long as we're trying to do our best everyday surely we're doing ok without setting unrealistic aims such as becoming a total detox goddess come January or going to the gym everyday. However this time of year always does make you reflect (maybe it's all the sitting around over Christmas!) and think what you'd like to achieve over the next 12 months. It's good to have goals and something positive to focus on especially during the colder months. These are 5 things I'd like to do this year...

1. Travel
I've really wanted to visit Las Vegas ever since I started looking into it a couple of years ago. I subsequently received a Las Vegas travel guide last Christmas and I'm now hooked! It'd be great to take in all the sights and visit the different casinos, go shopping (of course!) and combine it with a trip to the Grand Canyon. I'd love to plan a trip there so fingers crossed. I'd also love to return to New York, I instantly fell in love with the city when I first visited a few years ago and would love to go back. I've always wanted to go in December to see the tree at Rockefeller Center and the city all lit up for Christmas. I hope to visit more cities around Europe and to explore more areas of London too. I'd better get saving!

2. Organise & Print Photos
This is something I keep meaning to do but I'm determined to actually get organised and do it this year! I'm guilty of uploading some of my favourite photos to social media and then never really doing anything with them. I miss having actual photo albums to look through, scrolling through on your phone just isn't the same. I've got many empty albums waiting to be filled so I have no excuse. I especially want to create albums from various trips and print photos of family and friends to put in the numerous frames I keep buying!

3. Visit more Exhibitions
I went to some great exhibitions last year including the highly anticipated McQueen Savage Beauty at the V&A and more recently Mademoiselle Prive at the Saatchi Gallery. It's great to escape for a few hours and loose yourself amongst the art or learn about something new. I've already bookmarked the Georgia O'Keeffe exhibition starting in the summer at the Tate Modern. The Saatchi is one of my favourite galleries in London and somewhere I hope to visit more in 2016. They have some really interesting exhibitions and it's free entry too.

4. Enjoy more Theatre & Comedy Shows
I love visiting the theatre and I'm always adding to the list of shows I'd like to see. I'm celebrating my birthday soon and would love to go and see a show as part of the celebrations! I've heard great reviews of Book of Mormon and I'd love to see Phantom in London having loved it in NYC. I want to see more plays too and take advantage of the January ticket offers and the half price hut. I was lucky enough to see lots of my favourite comedians last year including the wonderful Luisa Omielan at the Udderbelly Festival on the Southbank in summer as well as a whole host of great shows at Edinburgh Fringe in August. There's nothing better than laughing so much that you're nearly falling off your chair! I hope to be able to see lots more of these great comedians and discover some new ones this year too.

5. Improve Photography & Develop Blog
I've recently been relying on using my iPhone for all my photos, it's just so convenient although it's not ideal for all types of photos or for high quality images. I'd been looking into a new camera for a while and recently took the plunge with an Olympus Pen. I can't wait to get started and hope it'll improve my blog photos as well as capturing all the trips I'd like to take! Alongside improving my photography I hope to develop my blog this year and feature more lifestyle posts of places I visit and things I've done as these are some of my favourite types of posts both to put together and to read about on other blogs.

What do you hope to achieve in 2016?

December in Photos

2015-12-31T18:30:00.000+00:00

This past month seems to have flown by, I can't believe we're nearly into the new year! When I look back over my photos from December I'm reminded how much I've managed to fit in and what a great month it's been! I enjoyed catching up with friends over a delicious Christmas Afternoon Tea at a local pub complete with mini mince pies, festive sandwiches and a tasty fruit punch. I was lucky enough to attend the X Factor final. It was an amazing night with good friends and seeing Adele perform live was a definite highlight! I had a lovely festive weekend in London seeing the Christmas lights and decorations whilst doing some Christmas shopping and going for brunch at one of my favourites, The Diner (they do the best blueberry pancakes!) I did yet more shopping, this time in Manchester and I managed to fit in a trip around the Christmas markets too. I baked some festive treats and I was really pleased to finally master the art of piping cupcakes (thank you Lakeland!) I enjoyed a lovely relaxing Christmas at home with my family and watched some of my favourite Christmas films whilst working my way through some of the Christmas chocolates! I got my nails done and went for Shellac Plum Paisley with a glitter accent nail for an added bit of sparkle for the season. I'm looking forward to seeing what the new year will bring and celebrating my birthday in a few days time!

What were your December highlights?

Top 5 Beauty Products of 2015

2015-12-30T14:00:00.000+00:00

It's safe to say I've purchased quite a few new make up and skincare items over the past 12 months, you just need to look at my overflowing beauty cabinet to see this! I've tried some great new products from brands I hadn't used before as well as continuing to be impressed by new and innovative products from some of my favourite brands. I've also received some lovely beauty gifts for Christmas which I can't wait to use! These are my top 5 favourite beauty products of the year...

1. Benefit Roller Lash

I made sure to pick up a copy of Elle Magazine at the start of the year to try the sample size Roller Lash mascara from Benefit which came with the March issue. I'd seen lots of reviews already popping up across the blogosphere and with They're Real! being a firm favourite of mine I was keen to try Roller Lash too. It exceeded my expectations and instantly became my everyday go to mascara. Previously I'd often find myself using numerous mascaras to try and achieve a lash perfect look but Roller Lash does all of this in one! Its hook and roll brush curls, separates and lifts lashes and gives you a wide eyed finish. I've repurchased this twice since and I'm sure it'll remain a firm favourite in my make up bag this year.

2. Urban Decay Naked Basics 2 Palette

I remember the hype around the launches of the Urban Decay Naked Palette's and wondering what all the fuss was about. I thought it seemed like a lot of money to spend on eyeshadows and doubted that I'd use many of the shades. However when I discovered the Naked Basics Palettes on offer one day last December I added it to my birthday wishlist and I was lucky enough to receive the Naked Basics 2 Palette for my birthday at the start of the year. I love the range of shades in this palette and the pigmentation of the shadows. Primal has become an everyday favourite (I wish they sold it separately too!) The palette is small enough to fit in my make up bag and it's been great for trips away to save having to pack multiple individual eyeshadows.

3. Benefit Air Patrol

It's no surprise another Benefit item has made it into my top 5 of the year. I'm rarely disappointed with their products! I was really pleased to receive a sample size Air Patrol in September as part of one of their social media campaigns. I've never tried an eyelid primer so I was slightly sceptical if it would work. I was happy to discover the first time I used it that it definitely does! I always used to hate how my eyeshadow would crease or fall towards the end of the day but Air Patrol resolves this. It feels cooling when you apply it too. I've found it really handy recently for events such as weddings when you want your make up to last all day. I've found it helps eyeshadow last for 12+ hours. I received a full size Air Patrol for Christmas so I'm very pleased I'll be able to use it more in the New Year!

4. Mac Russian Red Lipstick

Mac Russian Red is the first Mac lipstick I've owned. I wanted a classic red that I'd get a lot of wear from. It's the perfect true red shade and gives a matte finish. It looks great as an everyday red lip for the winter months and it's my go to for a night out or special occasions. I've bought a few other red lipsticks throughout the year but this remains my favourite.

5.Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water

I'd never paid much attention to Micellar water in the past believing it to be something people seemed to be stocking up on when visiting French pharmacies or paying extortionate shipping fees to get their hands on. When I saw that Garnier had released a version I decided it was worth a try. I was instantly converted and now wonder what I did before! I use it to take off my make up before using a cleanser. It even removes stubborn eye make up. I have one of the big 400ml bottles for using at home but find the mini 125ml bottles really handy for when I'm away. You can often pick up the mini bottles for 99p in Home Bargains and Bodycare.

What are your favourite beauty products of 2015?

The Best of Beauty Sales 2015

2015-12-28T10:30:00.000+00:00

My idea of fun doesn't involve getting up at 5.00am on Boxing Day to join the queues for the sales to try and grab a half price perfume set or find that item you've been after amongst the deluge. I much prefer the online sales when you can browse from the comfort of your sofa whilst wearing your PJ's and working your way through the Christmas chocolates! I never have much luck with clothes in the Boxing Day sales (it often looks like half of the items would never normally be seen on the rails!) but I do like looking at the beauty sales especially when theres some great discounts on offer. You could treat yourself with your Christmas money and pick up that gift set you've been lusting after or try out some products from a new brand. These are some of the best deals I've seen...

Clinique Primed Pink and Plush Gift Set - Debenhams - ~~Was £40.00~~ Now £28.00

Bare Minerals Complexion Perfection Palette - Debenhams - ~~Was £25.00~~ Now £20.00

Liz Earle Skincare Gift Set - John Lewis - Special Buy £21.00

Benefit Lee Lee's Beauty Secrets - Debenhams - ~~Was £39.00~~ Now £26.00

Origins Handy Hydrators Gift Set - Feel Unique - ~~Was £15.00~~ Now £11.25

Soap and Glory Scents of Occasion - Boots - ~~Was £12.00~~ Now £6.00

Grooving Gold Eyeshadow Palette - The Body Shop - ~~Was £16.00~~ Now £8.00

Lancome Hypnose Drama Mascara Set - Boots - ~~Was £22.50~~ Now £15.00

I often stop and look at Bare Minerals counters and the Complexion Perfection Palette looks like a great introduction to their products. It comes in a range of shades and includes a mineral foundation, concealer, bronzer and luminizer alongside the mini brushes you'll need to apply them. It comes in a handy zipped clutch. Soap & Glory's Scents of Occasion gift set contains 4 x 100ml body sprays including my favourite Sugar Crush. They're a great size for keeping in your handbag. I often pick up one of the Lancome Mascara gift sets around Christmas. They're great value for money and include a mini kohl pencil and 30ml of Bi-Facil eye make up remover for the same price you would pay for the mascara on its own. They're even better for just £15.00!

What bargains have you found in the sales?

Christmas Gingerbread Recipe

2015-12-24T11:00:00.000+00:00

I love getting up on Christmas Eve and heading into the kitchen to do some baking whilst listening to Christmas songs on the radio. My list of things to bake over Christmas seems to grow each year but one thing I always try to make time for is baking some Gingerbread. It's quick and easy to make and the kids can join in with the decorating too. I've never been brave enough to attempt a Gingerbread house (yet!) This is my simple gingerbread recipe if you fancy having a go too:

You will need:

350g/12oz plain flour
175g/6oz light soft brown sugar
100g/4oz butter
1 medium egg
4 tablespoons of golden syrup
1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda
1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger

Remove the butter from the fridge half an hour before you plan to start so it's easier to mix

Pre-heat the oven to 180C / 350F / Gas Mark 4

Combine the flour, butter, ground ginger and bicarbonate of soda in a mixing bowl and mix together with fingertips until it's crumbly

Add the sugar, syrup and egg and mix until it forms a firm pastry mix

Make sure the surface and rolling pin are well dusted with flour. Roll out pastry to approx 5mm thick and cut into shapes

Place the shapes on a greased or non-stick baking tray

Bake for 15 minutes

Decorate & Enjoy!

What are your Christmas Eve traditions?

Top 5 Diaries & Planners for 2016

2015-12-23T09:00:00.000+00:00

I love going shopping for a new diary each year. I can spend ages scouring my favourite stores looking at all the different styles and designs trying to decide which to choose. Alongside putting all my important dates, meetings and appointments in my phone I like to have them in my paper diary too incase my phone dies. I'm a little obsessed with making lists (you should see the amount of Christmas based lists currently in the notes section on my phone!) but I also love desk planners and list pads so you can see what you've got to do that day and tick it off as you go along.

1. Kate Spade New York 17 Month Organiser - John Lewis - £30.00

2. Happy Jackson Spiral Bound Diary - John Lewis - £8.99

3. Busy B Weekly Planner Pad - Busy B - £8.99

4. Mini Pocket Leather Diary with Pen - Aspinal of London - £40.00

5. Provence Rose A5 Diary - Cath Kidston - £15.00

Kate Spade have some gorgeous stationery (along with pretty much everything else they sell!) and this organiser is ideal for keeping everything in check. It includes sections for you to list each month's celebrations so you don't forget anyone's birthday. I love the stylish white and gold design.Busy B are one of my go to brands for stationary. They have so many great products to help you stay organised in cute and quirky patterns. The weekly planner pad is a must buy each year for me. You can list what you have on each day and there's a handy to-do section for each week too. If you're looking to spend a little more this mini pocket leather diary from Aspinal of London comes in a variety of colours. It features a week to view layout and has a handy pen attached. You can even get it personalised for free with your initials.

Have you got your diary for next year yet?

How do you stay organised?

A Festive Weekend in London

2015-12-21T09:00:00.000+00:00

Last weekend I spent a few days in London. I especially love wandering around the city at this time of year to see the Christmas lights, even amongst the crowds of Christmas shoppers Oxford Street looked beautiful lit up in gold and silver. Carnaby Street has a vibrant Christmas party theme this year complete with sparkling glitter balls and colourful stars. Covent Garden is one of my favourite places to visit, especially to see the giant Christmas tree! I loved the mistletoe decorations hanging down above the market. With Christmas day just a few days away I thought I'd share some of the photos I took of the lights and Christmas displays over the weekend..

Where are your favourite Christmas lights to visit this year?

A Visit to Manchester Christmas Markets

2015-12-19T10:00:00.000+00:00

I always make a date in my diary for Christmas shopping in Manchester & visiting the Christmas markets. The smell of mulled wine and hearing christmas songs playing whilst you walk around definitely leaves you feeling festive and gets you in the Christmas spirit! They're the best Christmas markets I've been to and stretch across the city spanning 10 different locations. This year there's a French Christmas Market along King Street, a German Christmas Market in St Ann's Square, a World Christmas Market down Brazennose Street and not forgetting the large Christmas market at Albert Square. There's a range of tasty treats and food from the continent on offer including crepes, dutch pancakes, fruit strudels and traditional bratwursts. I couldn't resist buying some dutch gouda to enjoy over Christmas, it always reminds me of visiting Amsterdam. You can also pick up a mulled wine or warm fruit cider in one of the Manchester Christmas Market mugs and get this refilled as you wander around. It's not just food, there's plenty of gift ideas and craft stalls too. I love looking at the traditional style Christmas tree decorations and ornaments and picking up a couple to remind me of the day. It's a great place to shop if you're looking to buy something a little different for gifts this year.

Manchester Christmas Markets are open until Tuesday 22nd December

Have you visited any Christmas markets this year?

The Best of Beauty Christmas Crackers

2015-12-18T10:05:00.000+00:00

I like to have crackers on the Christmas dining table each year, it just doesn't feel like Christmas dinner without them. I'm always the one insisting people wear their cracker hat too! We usually opt for traditional crackers with their paper hats, bad jokes and novelty gifts (those tiny screwdrivers come in so handy when you need to fix your glasses!) I've also attempted the make your own sets in the past but then comes the dilemma of what to include. This year I've been very tempted by all the beauty crackers I've seen. Not only would they look great on your Christmas table they'd make great gifts too.

Kissmass Cracker - Soap & Glory - £6.00

This cute mini cracker contains a handbag size of the popular Sexy Mother Pucker lip gloss in a pink shade, Rose and Shine. It'd make a lovely gift for Soap and Glory fans and it's a great size for popping in a stocking.

Clarins Christmas Crackers - Selfridges - £49.00

These luxury Clarins Christmas crackers are exclusive to Selfridges. You get 6 for £49.00 so they work out to be quite reasonable at just over £8.00 per cracker. They feature a selection of Clarin's most popular products including a Hand and Nail Treatment Cream, a miniature Rouge Eclat Lipstick, A Miniature Wonder Perfect Mascara, A Gentle Refiner Exfoliating Cream, Beauty Flash Balm and Eau des Jardins Treatment Fragrance. They look ideal if you're planning a get together with the girls over the festive season and want to treat them!

No7 Glamour Cracker - Boots - £8.00

The No7 cracker from Boots is also a bit of a bargain containing not 1 but 2 miniature make up items. Pull apart to reveal their Intense Volume Mascara and a Stay Perfect Amazing Eyes Pencil in black, a perfect combination for creating party looks!

Ultimate Christmas Cracker - Jo Malone - £205.00

If you're looking to splash out and treat yourself (or you're the best host ever) the oversized Jo Malone cracker contains a selection of luxury gifts including a Pine & Eucalyptus Candle, Mimosa & Cardamom Body & Hand Wash, Lime Basil & Mandarin Body Creme and 100ml of my favourite Jo Malone cologne Pomegranate Noir.

Cowshed Christmas Cracker - John Lewis - £8.00

The Cowshed Christmas cracker comes in a stylish monochrome design and contains natural products. It features their bestselling Cow Pat Moisturising hand cream in a generous 50ml size and their Lippy Cow lip balm.

Fiery Pink Pepper Cracker - Molton Brown - £20.00

Re-Charge Black Pepper Cracker - Molton Brown - £20.00

Molton Brown have designed not only a fabulous looking women's cracker but one for men too. The women's pink pepper cracker is blended with notes of ginger and patchouli and contains a full size 40ml Pink Pepperpod Replenishing Hand Cream, a 50ml Pink Pepperpod Body Wash and a 50ml Pink Pepperpod Nourishing Body Lotion. The men's cracker contains 3 of their iconic grooming products to get him ready for the festive season, a 50ml Black Peppercorn Body Wash, a 30ml Ultra - light Bai Ji Hydrator to moisturise the skin and a 50ml Black Peppercorn Nourishing Body Lotion. Both are priced at £20.00

Do you stick to traditional crackers at Christmas or will you be indulging with a beauty cracker this year?

10 of the Best Christmas Jumpers

2015-12-14T09:00:00.000+00:00

It wouldn't be Christmas without some novelty knitwear. I've seen some really cute Christmas jumpers on the high street over the last few weeks. Christmas Jumper Day takes place on Friday 18th December this year with everyone being encouraged to wear their favourite festive knit to school or work to raise money in support of Save the Children, Macmillan Cancer Support and Make - A - Wish UK. Even if you're not at work on Friday you could still take part by wearing your Christmas jumper and make a donation. The Text Santa appeal will be live on ITV1 on Friday evening from 8.00pm.

Bauble Jumper - Warehouse - £36.80

Embellished Stag Knit - Oasis - £42.00

Let it Snow Sweat Top - M&S - £19.50

Penguins Sequined Jumper - H&M - £14.99

Sequin Embellished Snowmen Jumper - M&S - £28.00

Vintage Reindeer Jumper - John Lewis - £49.00

Grey Sequin Penguin Jumper - Dorothy Perkins - £22.40

Vintage Fairisle Knit - Joe Browns - £29.95

Candy Cane Knitted Sweatshirt - Topshop - £35.00

Rupert Robin Knit - French Connection - £75.00

The baubles jumper from Warehouse is one of the nicest festive jumpers I've seen. I'd happily wear this throughout the holidays! I really like the sweat shirt style design of the 'Let it Snow' jumper from M&S. It looks really comfy if you're looking for something different from a traditional knit. There's lots of sequins and sparkles if you're looking to jazz up a pair of jeans with a festive jumper, the H&M and Dorothy Perkins jumpers both feature sequin embellished penguins to keep you sparkling throughout the season.

You can find out more details about Christmas Jumper Day and the Text Santa Appeal including how to get involved and make a donation by clicking here

Have you got your Christmas jumper yet?

Five things to do in London at Christmas

2015-12-11T09:00:00.000+00:00

I love visiting London especially at this time of year with all the Christmas lights and decorations it feels truly magical. You don't have to spend a lot (in fact some of these are perfect activities if you're trying to stay away from the shops!) to have a great day out and indulge in some of the Christmas festivities the capital has to offer.

1. Christmas Lights
I love going to see the Christmas lights ( I haven't made it to the switch on.. yet!) Catch the tube to Oxford Circus and walk along Oxford Street, Bond Street, Regent Street and then into Carnaby Street to see the light displays. There's a different theme each year and I can't wait to see them this weekend.

2. Christmas Markets
There's Christmas Markets popping up across London but my favourite (and sometimes what feels like the busiest!) to visit has to be the traditional style market along the Southbank. You can pick up a mulled wine to keep warm whilst you stroll along the riverbank looking at the range of stalls housed in little wooden chalets. It's a great place to buy food gifts for Christmas including cheeses and some delicious looking Gingerbread! The market runs until Christmas Eve.

3. Skate at Somerset House
Somerset House hosts an outdoor ice rink until 10th January. It looks like something out of a Christmas film when it lights up in the evenings and is lovely to visit even if you're not a keen ice skater (I could fall over without the added ice!) If you're looking for some Apres-Skate you can indulge with a range of treats at Fortnum's Lodge or grab a festive cocktail at the Skate Lounge whilst watching the action on the rink.

4. Department Stores Windows
Another great free activity is to take a trip to see some of the famous department stores Christmas window displays. I try to go to Selfridges, John Lewis and House of Fraser on Oxford Street before calling in at Liberty which looks extra special at this time of year. Don't forget to visit Fortnum & Mason and Harrods too for more dazzling displays.

5. Covent Garden
Covent Garden is one of my favourite places in London (once you're through the gauntlet outside the tube station!) It's a great place to shop and relax with lots of great bars and restaurants to choose from. I always make sure to go and see the giant tree, it looks so pretty especially when dark falls and it lights up the piazza. I love the decorations they have throughout the market and I can't wait to see this years!

What's your favourite thing to do in London at Christmas?

Christmas Gift Guide: For Her

2015-12-09T09:00:00.000+00:00

I always find when putting together Christmas gift guides when it comes to compiling the items to be featured in the women's gift guide I inevitably end up taking inspiration from things I've seen that I would like myself! Even when buying for friends or family with similar taste to yourself it can become tricky when you feel like you've exhausted all your ideas or they already seem to have everything so here's a few ideas to suit a range of budgets to hopefully help you out if you're stuck for what to buy...

1. Foldaway Overnight Bag - Cath Kidston - £40.00

2. Charlotte Tilbury Mini Lipstick Trio - Selfridges - £29.00

3. Kate Spade Metro Mini Watch - John Lewis - £150.00

4. Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Twist & Spray Eau de Parfum - Debenhams - £76.00

5. Panda Slippers - Accessorize - £12.00

If you're buying for someone who travels a lot these foldaway holdalls from Cath Kidtson are ideal. They fold up into a small pouch meaning you can easily pop them inside another bag if you're planning to buy lots to bring back from a trip. I bought one in summer and it has since come in really handy and holds all your essentials for a weekend away. There's lots of different patterns to pick from too. Charlotte Tilbury has stormed the beauty circuit over the last year with her new launches, concept stores and rose gold packaging. This lipstick trio looks like a lovely gift for beauty lovers and contains 3 smaller sizes of some of the brand's most popular shades. I have to give a shout out to one of my favourite bloggers and vloggers, Brogan Tate xo for mentioning that Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum is available in a twist and spray design. It's one of my all time favourite scents and I was so happy to discover you could purchase it in the twist and spray as I always worry about packing the bottle when going away in case it smashes but with the twist & spray you can easily pop it in your bag. It'd be ideal for topping up during the day or on nights out too. It's definitely on my list to Santa this year!

6. Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir Scented Candle - Selfridges - £42.00

7. Liz Earle Sparkling Skin Duo - Liz Earle - £28.00

8. Travel Wallet - Aspinal of London - £125.00

9. Fragrance Mist Gift Set - Victoria's Secret - £21.79

10. Hot Chocolate Gift Set - Whittard of Chelsea - £20.00

I think I've doubled my skin care collection over the last 12 months. I'm constantly drawn in by new products claiming to improve my skin. One of the best purchases I've made is the Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish, I don't know why it took me so long to get round to trying it! The 'Sparkling Skin Duo' gift set from Liz Earle contains their renowned Cleanse & Polish, Skin Tonic and a pair of muslin cloths. It'd make a great gift as an introduction to some of the brands most popular products. The Skin Tonic is a toner spray which leaves your skin feeling really refreshed once you've cleansed. There's lots of gorgeous gifts available at Aspinal of London but I think the travel wallet would make a really lovely present especially if the lucky recipient has any upcoming holidays booked! There's a wide range of colours to choose from and there's space to store tickets, boarding passes, passport and any other documents as well as a zipped compartment for currency. It'd keep all your important travel documents secure and prevent having to keep switching between purses looking for currency once arriving at your destination. I love the fragrances from Victoria's Secrets. Although their prices aren't quite as cheap here in the UK as buying in the US you can often find deals such as 3 for £24 on their fragrance mists, I just wish there were more UK stores! I love receiving sets like the Fragrance Mists Gift Set for Christmas as it means you get to try out some of the fragrances you might not have had before and they are a great size for travelling and popping in your bag. This set contains my favourite 'Bombshell' which has a fruity and floral scent.

11. Shopping Organiser - Paperchase - £6.00

12. This Works Dream Team - Feel Unique - £10.00

13. Paisley Print Wrap - Oasis - £29.00

14. Benefit Pump up the Party Set - Boots - £29.50

15. Gold Sequin Pouch - Oasis - £20.00

I hadn't tried anything by This Works until the last 12 months but their Deep Sleep Pillow Spray has become one of my essential products (I'll be doing a full review post in the new year) and something I'll definitely repurchase when my current one runs out. The 'Dream Team' set contains a mini version of the pillow spray and a mini stress less roll on. They'd make a great gift for anyone who has trouble sleeping or relaxing. If you're looking to buy something different from a traditional scarf how about a blanket wrap? They adorned the catwalk at fashion week and can be worn in a variety of ways. I really like the classic paisley print and black and grey tones in this wrap from Oasis. It's really well priced at £29.00 too. I always seem to end up buying one of the Benefit Christmas sets each year either for a gift or as a gift to myself! They're great value and allow you to try out some of their products without committing to buying the full size. The 'Pump up the Party Set' contains everything you need for getting ready for a night out and features some of their bestselling products including a mini porefessional, rollerlash, high beam, benetint lip and cheek stain, rockateur blush and an eyeshadow palette complete with brush.

Have you nearly finished your Christmas shopping?

What's on your Christmas wishlist this year?

You can catch up on the previous posts in my Christmas gift guide series by clicking here for gift ideas for him and clicking here for stocking filler ideas under £10.00

The Best of Lush Christmas 2015

2015-12-07T09:00:00.000+00:00

It's safe to say along with most of the nation I'm a Lush addict. I love discovering their new products and start counting down as soon as summers over to when the Christmas range launches. Even though my bathroom is starting to look like a Lush/The Body Shop hybrid store I can't help but compile a wishlist of Christmas products. The Magic of Christmas reusable bubble wand looks perfect for creating a warming bath full of spice scented bubbles and comes on its own cinnamon stick. They've also got the glittering Five Gold Rings bubble bar scented with vanilla. You can break off each ring and crumble into the water meaning you'll have enough for 5 baths.

It wouldn't be a Lush Christmas post if I didn't mention Snow Fairy. It's one of my favourite sweet Lush scents and I try to stock up on enough of the shower gel each Christmas to see me through the rest of the year. It makes a great gift and nearly everyone I know who has tried it loves it. For the first time this year Lush are selling it in a 1kg bottle, I know it'll be really hard to resist picking one up when I visit the Oxford Street store in a couple of weeks! If you're buying gifts for any Snow Fairy addicts the Magic Wand bubble bar would make a perfect pairing as it shares the same candy scent and looks so pretty too (I love Snow Fairy so much I seem to have matched my nail colour to it in this post!)

Another of my all time favourite Lush products has to be their Rose Jam shower gel which has been brought back for the Christmas season meaning I'll no doubt be stocking up on this too! It contains Argan oil to moisturise and has a sweet rose scent. I can't help but stop and sniff it whenever I visit a Lush store. This is also available to buy in a 1kg bottle for any fellow Rose Jam addicts out there!

I find the Lush shower jellies make great gifts and are also ideal if you're going away for a few days as they don't take up as much space/weight as a shower gel and it saves you decanting in to smaller travel bottles. Santa's Belly contains little sparkling stars and has a rich apple scent. The Snowman is shaped like a snowman and would make a very cute Christmas gift. You just need to break off a little at a time to use and pop him safely back in his pot. He has a fresh lemony citrus scent and would be a great product to try if you're not so keen on the sweeter Lush scents like Snow Fairy and Rose Jam.

There's a wealth of choice amongst the Christmas bath bombs and bubble bars featuring some returning favourites and some new products. It always seems to be the busiest section in Lush stores at this time of year (aside from the shelf holding Snow Fairy) but they really do make great gifts or are perfect for treating yourself to a nice relaxing bath after a day of braving the crowds whilst out Christmas shopping. The Holly Golightly bubble bar couldn't look more festive, it's super glittery and shaped like a little Christmas pudding. It creates spiced bubbles and is big enough for two or three baths. Cinders is ideal if you're looking for a really festive scented cinnamon bath bomb. It contains popping candy to fizz away when it hits the bath. One of the cutest products has to be Butterbear. This bath bomb appeals to children and big kids too, has a sweet vanilla scent and contains cocoa butter which melts in the water. The Bar Humbug bubble bar caught my eye as it's so purple and glittery! It contains Fennel and Tarragon oil giving it a liquorice scent. This would be another good one to try if you're looking for something different from the sweeter scented products. I couldn't not include Peeping Santa he's just too cute! He's a strawberry geranium oil scented bubble bar blended with Shea butter and Cocoa butter. Last but not least, Candy Mountain is one of my favourite bubble bars. It shares the same sweet candy scent as Snow Fairy and leaves your bath water the most gorgeous shade of pink.

I often neglect looking at the soaps (probably because I'm too busy sniffing all the shower gels and getting covered in glitter looking at the bath bombs) but the reindeer design in Reindeer Rock caught my eye and as I picked up a piece I instantly recognised the berry Comforter scent which is another of my Lush favourites ( I'm still so happy they made a Comforter shower cream) I haven't bought one of the soaps in a while but I remember the scent staying on my hands all day, and they make your sink smell great too!

What's on your Lush Christmas wish list this year?

Christmas Party Looks

2015-12-05T12:00:00.000+00:00

The shops are full of glitter and sparkle meaning it's that time of year again.. party season is here! I love shopping for a new Christmas party outfit even if my bank balance would rather I stay out of the shops post Black Friday sales! I managed to find a dress for an event next weekend in under 10 minutes the other day (Thank you Monsoon!) However we've all been there when you spend the day trailing round the shops or scouring your favourite websites only to feel deflated and like you'll never find anything to wear. If you're struggling to find inspiration here are a few party looks to see you through the season...

Lace Patched Dress - Oasis - £55.00

Black Suede Platforms - River Island - £55.00

Beaded Clutch - Accessorize - £29.00

You can't go wrong with an LBD, especially this gorgeous lace one from Oasis. It's the sort of dress I justify (sometimes too easily!) as it's a classic that can be worn throughout the year and can be dressed up for evenings and become a staple item in your work wardrobe. Platform style shoes with a chunky heel always seem much easier to walk in than a stiletto heel.. especially by the end of the night when you're on the dance floor after a few Prosecco's! A glitzy clutch can really transform your favourite black dress into a party ready outfit and take you straight from the office to the bar. I love the beaded detailing on this one from Accessorize and it looks big enough to hold all your party essentials.

Black Structured Top - Coast - £89.00

Jacquard Skirt - Coast - £129.00

Faux Fur Scarf - Accessorize - £29.00

I love full skirts and Coast has some of the nicest I've seen on the high street. If you're looking for something a bit different this season pair this gorgeous jacquard print style skirt with a structured top. It'd also look relaxed yet still glamorous for Christmas day teamed with a cosy roll neck jumper. It is a bit more than what I'd usually be looking to spend but it's a real investment piece and would look great for weddings next year too. Layer a faux fur scarf to keep you warm yet still looking chic.

Bead and Sequin Scatter Dress - Warehouse - £85.00

Metallic Tassle Earrings - New Look - £5.99

Black Asymmetric Clutch - River Island - £18.00

Warehouse is great for party dresses and occasion wear. I love this black dress with metallic beads and sequins. It's not too overly glitzy that you couldn't wear it all year round. I'm not a fan of tight structured dresses that leave you feeling like you can hardly breathe (and require industrial levels of shapewear) but this beaded dress has an elasticated waist meaning you don't have to fear the dreaded post Christmas meal bloat! These cute metallic tassle earrings are a bargain from New Look at just £5.99 and I'm sure I'd wear them throughout the festive season. Keep it simple with a classic black clutch so you don't detract from the detail of the dress.

What will you be wearing this party season?

Christmas Gift Guide: For Him

2015-12-02T09:00:00.000+00:00

People always seem to say they find men harder to buy for. I tend to agree that I find it easier when out shopping for Christmas presents for women as most of my female friends are super easy to choose gifts for as they generally like similar things to those I'd choose for myself (.. which can be dangerous as I end up wanting to buy stuff for myself too!) If you struggle with what to buy for your boyfriend, husband, dad, brother or grandad I hope this gives you some ideas and shows shopping for men doesn't have to be boring...

1. Anker Portable Charger - Amazon - £10.99

2. Cocoa Beer - Hotel Chocolat - £5.00

3. Striped Scarf - John Lewis - £50.00

4. No7 Men Energising Minis - Boots - £15.00

5. Wallet - Fossil - £39.00

There's nothing more annoying than being out for the day and realising your phone is about to run out of charge, especially if you're on a train and can't get one of the table seats with the plug points (speaking from experience of forever being caught out with this!) The portable charger from Anker is just £10.99 and can add over 1x charge to an iPhone 6. It's also compatible with iPads and the new 12" MacBook. It'd be great for commuters who regularly suffer from battery woes. You can never have too many scarves (that's what I tell myself anyway when buying yet another to add to my already overflowing scarf drawer!) and this Lambswool striped Scarf by Gant would suit all ages and be great for keeping warm and looking stylish during the colder months.

6. Guitar Spatula - JOY - £10.00

7. Fairisle Print Socks - Next - £12.00

8. Modern Gents Shaving Kit - The Body Shop - £25.00

9. Explorer Bag - John Lewis - £99.00

10. Diesel Brown Leather Watch - House of Fraser - £145.00

I think everyone needs a pair of socks at Christmas. These fairisle print socks from Next are subtle enough to be worn all year round (although who doesn't sometimes find themselves ending up wearing a pair of festive socks in July when all the other pairs are in the wash) The Body Shop stock a great range of products for men and have lots of reasonably priced gift sets on offer. The 'Modern Gents Shaving Kit' contains their bestselling Maca Root Shave Cream which conditions and moisturises the skin leaving a silky smooth finish. The explorer bag would make a great weekend bag if you're buying for someone who always seems to be on the go. It's roomy enough to hold all your essentials whilst still being compact enough for your travels.

11. Men's AW15 Grooming Box - Selfridges - £59.00

12. Beats Wireless Headphones - Apple - £269.95

13. Dents Leather Gloves - House of Fraser - £48.00

14. Leather Notebook - Debenhams - £15.00

15. Leather Stitched Washbag - M&S - £39.50

I hadn't seen a men's style beauty box until I came across the AW15 grooming box at Selfridges. It contains 9 luxury products from brands including Clarins Men and Molton Brown and comes with an Otis Batterbee zipped bag to store them in. This would make a great gift as they could try out the products and then you could repurchase their favourites (saving you deliberating over what to buy them next year!) You can't go too far wrong with a classic pair of leather gloves. Dents have lots of great styles to pick from including this brown pair with the cuff detail.

What have you been buying as gifts this year?

You can catch up with my previous gift guide featuring stocking filler ideas all under £10.00 by clicking here

November Favourites

2015-11-30T09:00:00.000+00:00

I can't believe it's the end of November, it feels like we've been counting down to Christmas and December for so long (I'm looking at you restaurant in Oxford playing Britney's 'My Only Wish This Year' in September) but now it's approaching so fast, I need to get on with my Christmas shopping! Here's what I've been loving this month...

Maybeline ColorSensational Plum Passion and Shellac Plum Paisley

Plum has to be one of my favourite shades for beauty this autumn/winter. I picked up the Maybeline lipstick in the buy one get one half price at Boots earlier this month having popped in to buy another shade. It's quite different to any lipsticks I've owned before (I usually stick to reds or nudes) but it's really wearable and I'm sure I'll get a lot of wear out of it over the Christmas season. In keeping with the plum theme I decided to go for Plum Paisley when getting my nails done recently. I'm terrible for being indecisive (there's too many nice colours!) and often end up sticking to red nails at this time of year but I'm really glad I opted for this shade and have received quite a few compliments on it, I might get it again over New Year.

Christmas Coffees

It's safe to say I'm something of a Christmas coffee addict. I eagerly await the red cups return. I've already had a couple of my beloved Gingerbread Latte's from Starbucks and I'm happy the Black Forrest Hot Chocolate (If you haven't tried this yet you need to, it tastes so good!) is back at Costa along with the White Hot Chocolate which is another of my favourites. I like to try and make sure I get my fill before they go back to the normal menu. A vanilla latte in January always feels so boring in comparison!

Adele

It feels like we've been waiting forever for Adele to return but now she's back and I couldn't be happier. She's gripped the nation with "Hello" (Lionel who?!) and launched her highly anticipated third album '25' with an hour long special on BBC1 last week. It's still available to watch on iPlayer (did you see the bit with her entering the competition to find the best Adele impersonator, she was so funny and it was such a sweet moment when the other contenders realised who she was) I'm hoping to receive her album for Christmas and it'll no doubt be on repeat.

Primark Jewellery

I usually find the jewellery section in Primark a bit hit and miss but they seem to have upped their game recently. I picked up these 2 necklaces the other day and their packaging informs me they're part of the new SS16 collection. I've wanted a beaded choker style necklace for ages and with Christmas party season coming up I think it must have been fate that I spotted this one. The weight of this style of necklace has always put me off in the past but this one is quite light so easy to wear all day or night and it was only £4.00. I really liked the pearl necklace too. I picked this up for £1.50 and thought it'd be great for everyday wear and to thrown on over a jumper.

The Chris Moyles Show on Radio X Podcast

Chris Moyles is truly my morning saviour. I used to love listening to the breakfast show back in the day with Chris and the team on Radio 1. It'd make getting out of bed that bit easier and keep me smiling on the journey to work. I was so happy when it was announced Chris (along with Dom and Pippa and some new additions to the team) were to take over the breakfast show on the newly launched Radio X. My only wish is that it was streamed on FM across the UK (or maybe that one day I could figure out how to connect my phone via bluetooth in my car.. it's been over 2 years now!) My prayers were answered when I discovered the podcast. It means I can catch up with any bits of the show I've missed that week. I love seeing it appear in my subscriptions each Friday. Fingers crossed Dominic the donkey returns this year too! Click here to catch up on the show.

What have you been loving this month?

Festive Homeware & Christmas Decorations

2015-11-27T16:00:00.000+00:00

I've never been one of those people that counts down to putting up their Christmas tree on 1st December, don't get me wrong I love Christmas but it just almost feels too soon especially having been brought up observing the Twelfth Night tradition of putting the tree up on Christmas Eve. That being said I do like to introduce one of two Christmas decorations before then to get in the spirit so I thought I'd compile a list of some of the best decorations I've seen over the past couple of weeks which look great on there own if you maybe don't have space for a tree, are away over the holidays, or just want to add a little touch of something festive now.

1. Merry Christmas Bunting - Sass & Belle - £7.00

2. Silver Bells Decorations - Waitrose - £3.50

3. Cushion - M&S - £12.00

4. Noel Sign - Waitrose - £4.00

5. 'Be Merry, Be Awesome, Be You' Decorations - H&M - £3.99

I love these heart and star decorations from Waitrose made of little silver bells. They're currently out of stock at my local branch (I should have bought them when I first saw them!) but I'll be popping in again before Christmas to hopefully pick up a pair.

Christmas cushions are great to add to the sofa or a bed to make it extra cosy and this one from M&S is so cute and not too festive to look out of place on display across the winter months. I'm currently trying to resist buying another set of festive bedding this year!

H&M is fast becoming one of my favourite places to shop for homeware, I just wish they had more stores carrying their home range. I recently visited the H&M on Oxford Street (the one just along from Topshop) to look at the home section and they had some lovely Christmas things including these 'Be Merry, Be Awesome, Be You' gold hanging decorations.

6. Metal Diamond Decorations - H&M - £6.99

7. Wooden Trees - Wilko - £3.00

8. Wonderful Time Plaque - M&S - £10.00

9. Tartan Heart - Wilko - £1.00

10. Standing Reindeer - Sass & Belle - £7.50

'The Most Wonderful Time of the Year' plaque from M&S would look great hung on it's own or alongside a full on festive display! Little hanging plaques like this and the Sass & Belle 'Merry Christmas' bunting featured above are a great way to inject a touch of Christmas without having to spend much or buy a new tree.

The standing reindeer caught my eye straight away in Sass & Belle, there's also a smaller version available and I think I might have to pick one up to put in my room on my perfume shelf.

I really like these little tartan fabric hearts available at Wilko for just £1. You could use them on a tree but they would also be ideal for hanging around a room or you could string them along ribbon to make your own bunting if you're feeling crafty! The wooden trees are also from Wilko and would look great on a mantelpiece or as a table decoration.

Where is your favourite place to shop for Christmas decorations?

When do you put your decorations up?

Black Friday: Best Fashion & Beauty Deals

2015-11-27T00:10:00.000+00:00

I told myself I wasn't going to do a Black Friday post. I find it slightly bemusing that in recent years the idea of slashing prices and offering big pre Christmas discounts has travelled across the pond from the US. Along with Cyber Monday retailers are gearing up for what they hope to be one of their biggest weekends. With it being payday for many too I'm sure lots of people will be hitting the high street in search of bargains (but hopefully not fighting over giant televisions this year!)

I even have today's post scheduled to go up later but all of this went out of the window when I arrived home this evening and checked my emails and twitter to find too many good deals on fashion and beauty that I wanted to share. After all who doesn't love a bargain, especially when you've got Christmas presents to buy!

Source

Accessorize have 30% off all jewellery and selected lines including scarves, gloves and bags

ASOS are offering 20% off everything including beauty with the code 'CYBER' at the checkout. High end make up brands including NARS and Illamasqua are on offer. It's free delivery on orders over £20 ( I'm sure I'll have no problem reaching this with my every growing order!)

Benefit has 15% off all products (excluding sale items and Christmas gift sets) with the code 'BLACK15'

The Body Shop are one of the best retailers for their deals all year round and this Black Friday they've got 40% off almost everything (there's a few lines excluded) with free UK delivery on orders over £5. If you're looking to treat yourself or haven't shopped with them before I recommend trying some of their Christmas collections, my favourites are Frosted Plum and Glazed Apple. I also love their skincare products. They have some great gift sets for Christmas which are very reasonably priced and a total steal with the extra 40% discount on top

Boux Avenue have 20% off online and in stores on all full priced products

Ciaté London currently has 30% off everything including their popular 'Mini Mani Month' nails advent calendar

Cloud Nine have £20 off all electrical items (excluding the micro iron) until Monday. These are the holy grail of hair straighteners!

Debenhams are offering VAT free prices on all fragrances including gift sets online and in stores alongside 10% off make up and skincare

The Fragrance Shop has 15% off all gift sets so be sure to check your Christmas shopping lists if anyone you're buying for has asked for fragrances

GAP has 40% off full price styles with the code 'GAPFRIDAY'

GHD have £20 off selected hair stylers, hair dryers and curling irons until Monday. It's also worth checking to see if your local salon is running a deal

John Lewis are running their Price Match deal matching competitors promotions so if you've seen an item on offer elsewhere be sure to check with them too if you'd rather buy it there. They offer a free click and collect service on orders over £30 at their stores or you can pick it up at your local Waitrose

JOY are offering 25% off all full price clothing, accessories and jewellery with the code 'BLACKOUT' online and in stores

Kate Spade has 20% off using the code 'GIFT20' at the check out online and in stores through to Sunday. I love their purses and this offer makes them extra tempting!

Kiehls have 20% off if you purchase 2 or more products. Use the code 'TREAT20'

Office are offering 20% off all shoes online (with free UK delivery) and in stores, great if you're looking to invest in a pair of winter boots or have had your eyes on some new heels for your Christmas party!

M&S have a whole host of offers including 50% off beauty and fragrance gifts, 30% off party wear, 30% off nightwear (handy if you're looking for some new Christmas PJ's or a winter dressing gown) 30% off the Rosie for Autograph lingerie collection and 30% off bags

Models Own are doing 50% off everything online and at the bottle stores, I especially love their glitter polishes at this time of year

Monsoon has up to 30% off party dresses. It's one of my go-to places when looking for a dress for a special occasion, they can be a little more pricey than some high street stores but with 30% off they're much more affordable

Oasis is one of my favourite high street stores, I can't go in without finding something I want to buy but often wish it was that bit cheaper. They've got 25% off everything with the code 'BRIGHT25' so make sure to check it out if you're a fan too. I'm trying to resist buying it all!

Selfridges are doing their 20% off weekend again this year (10% for beauty and fragrance) with the code 'SELFCEE' so if you're lusting after a designer handbag be sure to let Santa know this is the time to invest!

Whistles has 20% off everything until Monday. It's one of those shops I walk past and wish I could afford everything inside, so this 20% off could come in very handy/dangerous. If it's good enough for Kate Middleton...

What deals are you hoping to find on Black Friday?

Christmas Gift Guide: Stocking Fillers under £10.00

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With it being a month today until Christmas day I thought I'd better make a start on my Christmas shopping. I try to avoid going when it's really busy (though I'll never be one of these "I finished my shopping in July" organised types!) I love to go and look round the shops to get some inspiration about what to buy people on my list. There's so many great gifts you can find for under £10.00 which are ideal if you're on a budget or maybe taking part in a Secret Santa. Here's a selection of some of the best I've found to hopefully help you out if you're stuck for ideas on what to buy..

1. Light Brown Cardholder - River Island - £8.00

2. Beaded Necklace - Primark - £4.00

3. Lip Bullet Duo - Topshop - £10.00

4. Build Your Own Gingerbread House - Tiger - £3.00

5. Wake Up And Smell The Coffee Mug - Sass & Belle - £6.50

I can't visit Topshop at Oxford Circus without making a beeline for the beauty department. I especially love their lip colours, they're such great quality for the price. This set of 2 lip bullets would make a lovely gift. 'Get Me Bodied' is a rich matte plum which is perfect for the season and 'Cherry Tree' is a classic red shade. I've always wanted to make my own Gingerbread House but I've been put off by how difficult it looks! This set from Tiger comes ready to assemble and includes a bag of sweets to decorate. It'd be a fun activity for all ages to do over the Christmas holidays.

6. Penguin Eye Mask - Paperchase - £6.00

7. Starbucks Dusting Set - Boots - £10.00

8. Soap & Glory Irresistibubble Gift Set - Boots - £5.00

9. Recipe Tin - Dot Com Gift Shop - £9.95

10. Pocket Guide to Wine Book - John Lewis - £7.99

I try to resist looking at all the gifts whilst waiting in the Starbucks queue for fear of leaving the store not only with my latte but 4 gift mugs and a travel cup too! This dusting set looks like it would make a great gift for coffee lovers. It contains coco sprinkles in cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and chocolate so you can add flavours to your coffee all year round. My favourite Soap & Glory scent has to be sugar crush. It has a sweet lime fragrance that smells amazing. The Irresistibubble gift set is great value at just £5.00 for a mini sugar crush body wash and body buttercream.

11. Foldaway Tote Bag - Paperchase - £4.50

12. Frosted Plum Hand Cream - The Body Shop - £4.00

13. Stationery Set - Primark - £5.00

14. Kiehl's Facial Fuel No-Shine Lip Balm - Selfridges - £8.00

15. Liberty Chocolate Coin - Liberty - £3.95

Since the plastic bag charge came into effect in England and Wales recently I always try to make sure I pop a foldaway bag into my handbag before I leave the house to save ending up buying yet more carrier bags. I've bought a couple of the foldaway tote's from Paperchase. There's so many designs to choose from and they easily fold away back into the pouch. I like to include similar things in a stocking for a man (there's so many beauty bits for women) and try to find a find a few beauty and grooming gifts to pop in. I know a few guys who are fans of the Kiehl's Facial Fuel skincare range and I'm sure their no-shine lip balm would make a welcomed gift during these colder months to prevent chapped lips. It's the law to have a bit of chocolate in your stocking, right?! I went for a look around the Christmas shop in Liberty a couple of weeks ago and their chocolate coins are truly giant! They feature a picture of their iconic London store. They'd make a lovely gift for any Liberty fans, and chocolate fans too!

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?

A Visit to The Cake & Bake Show 2015

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Earlier this month I visited The Cake & Bake Show at Event City in Manchester. I've been to similar trade shows including the Ideal Home Show in the past and enjoyed looking round and thought what's not to like when cake is concerned! The popularity of The Great British Bake Off has encouraged many of us to put on our aprons and have a go ourselves. I won't be making any showstoppers anytime soon but I've already got an ever growing list of things to bake in time for Christmas!

One of my highlights from the show has to be watching contestants from The Great British Bake Off giving demonstrations at the 'The Great British Bake Off Live' stage. I was lucky enough to see one of my favourite contestants Ian from the most recent series (He made a working chocolate well in the showstopper challenge one week on the show.. need I say anymore!) I also watched Flora from the recent series baking a cake and making her own jam to decorate it with. There was a range of contestants from the different series of GBBO appearing across the weekend. Celebrity chefs were also in attendance appearing at another theatre offering demonstrations and answering questions from the audience.

There was lots of professional cakes to admire, I loved the London design on the official show cake and of course the Frozen cake was attracting a lot of interest.

There was a marketplace area full of stalls selling cakes, biscuits and chocolates to buy alongside baking tools and decorations. I couldn't not get a photo of these super cute Gingerbread men, and yes they tasted as good as they look!

It was great to see the baking competition entries which seemed anything but amateur to me! My favourite in the category was this amazing Peter Rabbit cake. You could really see how much hard work and detail must have gone into creating all the characters.

There was a range of pop up bars serving champagne and cocktails to enjoy alongside a sweet treat and even a vintage style tea room offering a more traditional cup of tea served from a caravan if you fancied a sit down and wanted to relax from all that shopping!

Have you been to The Cake & Bake Show?

Chanel Mademoiselle Prive

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I was lucky enough to visit Mademoiselle Prive at the Saatchi Gallery this week. Having attended Chanel's Little Black Jacket back in Autumn 2012 I didn't let the lengthy queues deter me. Described as a journey through the origins of Chanel, Mademoiselle Prive is a truly immersive art installation.

As you enter through the garden you find yourself gazing upon the staircase overlooking Chanel's salon. Make sure to download the app specially created for the exhibition if you visit. It'll guide you through the rooms and has lots of interactive features for you to access. You're instructed to hold up your phone at various points to unlock exclusive content which really brings the essence of Chanel to life.

The white corridors are edged with black to give you the sensation of walking around inside the iconic Chanel No 5 bottle. As you enter the Chanel No 5 laboratory you are hit with the familiar scent. The canisters open to reveal their potions as the fragrance fills the room, it's a truly magical experience.

The Jardin A La Francaise depicts a 18th century style maze inspired by the intertwined 'C' motif Gabrielle Chanel first saw on the stained glass windows at Aubazine, the orphanage where she lived as a child. The interlocking 'C' design later became the brand's signature.

The Haute Couture gowns embody the spirit of Chanel. Lit up on platforms they sparkle and shimmer as you walk past. As any Chanel fan knows there are few words to describe the beauty, attention to detail and design that go into creating such elegant pieces, so I'll let the photos speak for themselves!

Bijoux De Diamants houses the re-edition of the original 'Bijoux De Diamants', the only high jewellery collection created by Mademoiselle Chanel in 1932. A portrait gallery of celebrities wearing the pieces adorns the walls photographed by creative director Karl Lagerfeld. One of the highlights of the exhibition is the short film starring Geraldine Chaplin as the ghost of Coco Chanel in an encounter with Karl as they bicker over what he has done with the brand.

The Totems including lucky numbers, pearls, wheat and black lines are symbols and icons created by Gabrielle Chanel and still used by Karl Lagerfeld today. These emblems have become synonymous with the house.

Another of my highlights has to be the Sensory Room. Walking through a maze of fabric from Chanel's collection you can examine the detail of the fine silks in contrast against the feel of the tough leathers. You almost become lost amongst the drapes as you truly immerse yourself in the ideology of the brand. Short animations are projected against the fabrics. A bucket filled with their iconic black and gold chains is also on display.

Mademoiselle Prive has to be one of the best exhibitions I've ever had the pleasure of attending. Chanel is truly brought to life through a sensory awakening using the interactive app, scents, touch and visual displays capturing the personality and spirit of Mademoiselle Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld.

Mademoiselle Prive is open until Sunday 1st November at the Saatchi Gallery so hurry down there this weekend as this is one not to be missed!