Lucy Cole

2017 Beauty Favourites

2018-01-03T08:03:00.000+00:00

I'm no beauty guru, but this year has definitely been a year where I've discovered a whole load of brilliant beauty products. Today I thought I'd share with you my favourites of 2017!

The first real show stopper for 2017 for me is the Crown Brush 35 Colour Rose Gold Eyeshadow Palette*. A dupe for Morphe 35O this palette was practically made for me - it's the most beuatiful mix of browns, golds and reds perfect for my blue eyes. I've been reaching for it so often! See my review on the palette and some other goodies from Crown Brush here.

A more recent discovery for me was Clinique Moisture Surge. I avoid high end beauty normally but when I had given a sample of this a go and loved it, and saw this on offer at boots I took the plunge. It's so light but still super moisturising and is the perfect makeup base! See my review here.

Talking tools, the Zoeva makeup brushes are my go-to. The rose golden set is the perfect basic set. My personal faves being the silk finish brush and the luxe sheer cheek brush - see the full review here!

Another skincare holy grail for me has been the Pixi Cleansing Balm. I've really loved moving away from basic make-up remover, and towards a balm. This removes make-up brilliantly leaving my skin feel super clean. See my full post on this one here!

2017 was the year of the brows. For me, Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow was the real winner. I've used this pretty much every day since I got in at the beginning of the year and it's still going strong!

Finally, the Magnitone London Barefaced Cleansing Brush is a bit of a latecomer but I couldn't miss this beauty out. I've absolutely loved introducing this into my beauty routine. Using this after removing my make-up makes me feel like my skin really is squeaky clean and clear of any impurities. See my review here.

What were your 2017 beauty favourites?

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

2018 Resolutions

2017-12-31T08:03:00.000+00:00

I know, I know, another 2018 goals post. I know they're everywhere right now but these are my fabourite types of post to both read and write this time of year. I love the feeling of a brand new year for a fresh start, to make brand new goals. I love writing my goals down so in a years time I can check back and see the progress I made. Back in summer I made some goals, which I've done a pretty good job at so 2018 calls for bigger and better resolutions!

Step up my blogging game even more
Back in July I did a post on How I'm Stepping Up My Blogging Game. I'm so proud of how far me and my little blog have come in the last here - I've really pushed my content a lot more and I think hopefully that's visible! For Christmas I finally got the camera of my dreams - the Olympus PEN E-PL8 so I'm looking forward to learning how to use this camera and get some better shots!

Graduate
Just thinking about this is crazy. In July I'll be graduating from my BSc Geography degree. I'm not sure what I'll be graduating with yet but I'm eager to do the best I can in the rest of my coursework to come and make myself and my family proud!

Don't let the real world scare me too much
I know this one sounds a bit silly. With graduating comes finally entering the big wide world and finding my place in it somewhere. I have no idea what direction I'm taking my degree in, and what I'll end up doing and this prospect terrifies me on a daily basis. One thing I really want to make sure of this year is to not let his get to me or stress me out too much. I know things will work out on their own.

Get a job
Another scary one - I've got to get a job. In the next few years I know I'm going to want to find not just a job, but a career - and I want it to be something I love. Despite taking a degree in Geography, I'm not sure this is the path I'll take after graduating. I want to take a few years trying out a few things I have an interest in and finding what I want to do.

2018 without a doubt is going to be a massive year for me, but I'm excited to see what it brings. What are your new year resolutions?

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

All the tips and stationary you need for a productive 2018

2017-12-29T08:03:00.000+00:00

Monday, January 1st calls for a fresh start and a new year full of being productive. I like to think over the years, through blogging and being a student I've learnt the tricks of the trade of getting the job done.

My top 3 tips for a productive day, week or year have to be..

Set an alarm. I always work better having woken up at a planned time.

Get up and get dressed. It's tempting to work from bed or stay in your PJs all day but this causes me to stick in that lazy mindset. Get up and get dressed as if you're going out to the office - even if you're not!

Make a list. List everything you need to do that day, week or month. Prioritise what needs to be done first and how long each task to make your goals clear and achievable!

If you read my Favourite desk accessories post you'll know having a good desk, full of stationary, quotes and everything else is crucial to success! One thing that I live by for productivity is my desk planner. I've been using one religiously for 3 years now. Sitting down on a Sunday evening and planning my week ahead is my favourite part of the week. Writing down everything I have going on, especially when I'm at uni and have different lectures, training sessions and other things going on really helps clear my mind and visualise what needs to be done. This is the planner I have for the new year!

A diary is always a good idea to have in your bag too. I tend to use my iphone diary to add in any meetings or plans I make while out and about so I don't forget anything and so that everything's all in one place!

And of course, cute stationary always helps with the motivation to get some work done. These positive pens are possibly the cutest thing I've seen all year.

What are your tips for top productivity?

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

A reflection of 2017

2017-12-27T10:55:00.001+00:00

I know these kinds of posts are going to be everywhere over the next few weeks but they're something I really love doing. Reflecting it something I love to do, and I like to take time to do so at the end of the year to really sit down and soak up everything that's happened. I think it's really important that we take time to reflect in order to appreciate all the brilliant, and not so brilliant things we've achieved.

In terms of university, I started 2017 in my second year, ended that year somehow averaging with a first, spent my summer making, dropping off and collecting questionnaires for my dissertation, and finally started my final year. I am so proud of the progress I've made at uni this year. I've always been proactive and organised with my work, and starting my dissertation was something that really, really daunted me, but here I am with my first draft complete, and the final thing being handed in in a matter of weeks!!

The uni messed me about a bit in my first few weeks of third year, causing me a hell of a lot of stress and movement from a module I had chosen, back to one I hated, then back to the original one I wanted to do. Despite all this, and missing out on 4 weeks of lectures for that module, I stuck with my gut, knowing what was best for me and produced an essay which (hopefully) won't be too awful!

University, and being away from home, since first year has been something I've really struggled with - so much more than I expected to, but comparing myself now, to 3 years ago when I was sat in halls is a completely different person. I am so much happier, and despite still having my wobbles, I enjoy it so much more. I've learnt one hell of a lot and it's crazy knowing in a matter of months I'll be a graduate.

In blogging terms there is SO much to be proud of! I set myself a challenge back in January to post twice a week for the whole year, and I can't believe I've managed to stick to it. I've really fallen back in love with my blog and I think it's shown. My content, especially my photography has improved no end and I've had some of the best collaborations yet. My boyfriend Jamie is owed a lot of credit here, he's helped me no end with all the photography bits, been my own insta-boyf and pushed me whenever I had my doubts.

In terms of myself, 2017 has been a year where I've really started to prioritise myself, and my mental health. I've learnt to be selfish sometimes for my own good, and I've learnt a lot about myself - what I like, what I don't like and everything in between. I pride myself on being a really positive person and although we can't all be happy all the time, I've learnt to accept that's ok and worked out what I need to do when I'm not feeling great to get me back to myself. I've pushed myself out of my comfort zone - Jamie and I did V Fest over the summer break which was a pretty big thing and I've put myself forward for a lot more opportunities - media sec of netball and captain of my netball team to name a few!

It's been such a brilliant year, full of lessons, fun and achievements and I'm so excited to see what 2018 brings. What were some achievements you made in 2017?

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

Girl Power

2017-12-22T08:03:00.000+00:00

I can't lie, I felt a bit like a sassy queen in this outfit. Knee high boots just seem to have that effect on me. Anyone else? I couldn't believe my luck when Miss Pap popped into my inbox asking if they wanted to collaborate, I've worked with a few brands through my blog before but's it's so rewarding when a brand you previously know and love asks to work together. I feel like I've come such a long way with my blog this year and I'm so excited to see what 2018 brings..

Coat*, T-Shirt* & Boots* - MissPap // Skirt - Primark // Bag - Primark

By no means is my blog where I want it to be, but looking the improvements I've made just this year -they're so much bigger than what I've done in the whole 5 years of blogging. I'm sure I'll be adding some blogging goals in my New Years Resolution post, but in preparation for that I'm getting started on some goals early. First up is reaching 1k on bloglovin' (help a gal out), and contacting some brands I really want to work with. I've only ever reached out to a couple of brands before after seeing them work with similar bloggers, but I'm starting 2018 big and I'm not afraid to be turned down - there's no harm in trying after all.

I'm embracing the Girl Power vibes even more and ending 2017 how I want to start 2018 - if I want something, I might as well start working for it now, right?

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

Partywear for the festive season

2017-12-19T08:03:00.000+00:00

I love dressing up this time of year. I may not be going to the fanciest of parties, but I will always find a reason to dress up. Heck, last year I went to the pub in the sparkliest, fanciest dress I've ever owned and I bloody loved it. Christmas and New Years is the one time I feel like I can go extra on the outfit, and I don't care how OTT I look. I'll go to the supermarket in my ball gown if I feel like it.

Christmas and New Years is all about the party dresses. Velvet, sparkles, or my favourite sequin dresses, you name it, I've done it all. I've put together a lovely little wishlist of my favourite partywear on the highstreet right now.

Start as we mean to go on, this White and Silver Turtle Neck Dress from Quiz is the ultimate glam number. If sequins aren't for you then perhaps the Berry Velvet Twist Dress is better suited. I love dark reds and berries this time of year - pair it with a dark lip and you're good to go. This Boohoo T-Shirt Sequin Dress is ideal if you're looking to have a bit of food and want to hide any food babies. It's important to feel comfy to enjoy a night out - sometimes bodycon isn't always the way to go! I'm very much feeling this ombre Mini Sequin Dress number, and as if I haven't pointed out enough sequin dresses yet, this Galaxy Sequin Dress really trumps them all. Finally, dresses aren't for everyone, and you can look just as fabulous in a jumpsuit like this Satin Knot Jumpsuit from Topshop - I love the colour and the satin still gives a bit of sparkle so it's a total win win!

What are you going to be wearing this festive season?

*This is a sponsored post.

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

PVC

2017-12-15T10:11:00.000+00:00

Another day another outfit. Jamie and I found this super cute road when shooting a few weeks ago - pastel house dreaaams! A nice location really can make or break a shoot sometimes. Shoutout to my hometown Suffolk for having some of the cutest places eva. I don't have a lot to say in this post but I'm sure as I continue to type I'll find more to ramble on about...

Skirt, Jumper & Coat - Primark // Boots - New Look

I love sharing on my blog everything that's going on in my life in outfit posts. I don't have the mind, or the words to write fancy, inspirational posts like a lot of bloggers out there, but I love using my blog as a little diary. I know in the years to come I'll be grateful for it and be able to reminisce about silly little things.

So what's happened to me recently? I moved back home for Christmas this week. It's so scary knowing I'm almost halfway through my final year of uni. Time really has flown by! I'm a little bit lost with nothing to do - I was always so busy at uni, and now I've realised I like to be kept that way. I'll be going back to work this weekend, and despite it being in retail I'm looking forward to getting myself a bit of money. I've just about sorted my Christmas shopping for this year which feels great - I can't wait to have a cosy evening wrapping everything up soon!

I'm so excited for a month back at home full of festivities, eating everything in sight and spending time with my bezzies, my boyfriend and my family!

Shop Similar..

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

10 things I'm grateful for

2017-12-12T08:03:00.000+00:00

Christmas time, for me, is always a time to reflect. It's my favourite time of the year and always reminds me how fortunate, and lucky I am. To celebrate this, I've decided to share with you 10 things, although there are hundreds, that I'm grateful for.

My friends and family. I don't have loads of friends, but I have the best, close-knit pals who are there whatever. As for my family, they're the biggest load of loonies but I wouldn't swap them for anyone else.
My boyfriend. 3 years in and I still fall more in love every day. He's my rock and my number one supporter.
Exercise. Mostly in the form of Netball. It keeps me fit and healthy, helps me socialise, and always manages to clear a foggy mind.
My blog. It's given me so many things - confidence, opportunities, new skills. The best decision I ever made was signing up 5 years ago.
My education. I've always loved education. It's ridiculous that there are people in the world that don't get an education as a basic human right, and I think it's important we don't forget that.
Good eyeliner days. Very rare, but I'm grateful nonetheless.
ASOS next day delivery. Saving me. Every time.
My health. Luckily visits to the doctor are very rare for me.
My morning cup of tea. It pulls me through the day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Weekends. No worries and no responsibilities, most importantly, no alarms.

What are you grateful for?

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

Flowers as a gift this Christmas

2017-12-10T08:03:00.000+00:00

Christmas presents are always a difficult one. Every year theres a couple of things that I know my friends and family are after, but more often than not I'm stuck with what to get them. This ends up in a last minute panic round town, buying something which sure, is nice, but not exactly a gift that will be used, or appreciated for a long time.

As a geography student, I am well aware of sustainable consumption and Christmas is a very big time for that debate, and although I don't want to get into it, nor am I a massive environmentalist, I do think sometimes we need to consider other options for gifts. It happens far to often that we're buying things for the sake of it, which wont be used for a long time, and it's time we started considering more environmentally friendly and sustainable options. I'm not talking dramatic things like making your own gifts, or buying second hand, although these can be brilliant options too, but if you're unsure what to buy this year, why not consider something simple like flowers?

Prestige Flowers sent me this beautiful Christmas Flowers Boquet. Flowers are the perfect gift for a loved one this year. I think the present of flowers can often show and mean a lot more than your typical festive gift. Plus it's a pretty easy one, who doesn't love flowers, especially Christmas ones to add to your festive decorations?

These flowers are the Noel set, and came in a giant, but beautiful box, wrapped carefully with a soaked peice of material on the bottom to keep them alive in transit. Alongside it came a lovely vase so no more turning the house upside down trying to find a vase which will fit the boquet, and a little addition of some chocolates. Who doesn't love some chocolates? I am so impressed with how beautiful the flowers are, and my mum has loved having them amongst our decorations this year!

Would you consider flowers for a Christmas gift?

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

That Scarf and Coat Combo

2017-12-08T08:03:00.000+00:00

Big apologies for wearing the same scarf and coat as last week's outfit, but ya gal has gotta keep warm and this is all I brought home with me for the weekend! My struggles will be no more VERY soon because I'm heading home for Christmas on Monday!!! I'm very excited for 5 weeks at home, earning a bit of money, relaxing and eating allll of the Christmas food.

Coat & Bag - Primark // Blouse - H&M // Skirt - New Look // Scarf - Topshop // Boots - Clarks

I don't feel like I have a lot to say in this post. Normally I sit down and I'm ready to write an essay telling you all about whats going on in my head and what I've been up to. Maybe all this dissertation writing has worn me out of words to say.

Speaking out my dissertation, I think I may have written my first draft now. I've just got to bung it all together and hand it over to the big bro to rip it to shreds for me. He's written a few dissertations in his time so he knows what he's talking about! It feels crazy to say this time in 5-6 weeks it'll all be over and handed in. Perhaps once it's done I could do a post about it all - I'm sure it could be useful to somebody!

In terms of plans this week - Jamie's up in Norwich with me this weekend, we don't have much planned apart from taking some photos in the super cool Norwich Tunnel of Light! It'll be nice just to chill without any major plans for once. What are you guys all up to in the coming week?

Shop similar...

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

5 things blogging has given me

2017-12-05T08:03:00.000+00:00

Blogging has been a little hobby of mine for nearly 5 years now. That's a bloomin' long time. Over that time, there has been a lot of things it's given me, so I thought today I'd share them with you.

Confidence. This sounds a little silly, but over the years I've grown to be proud of my blog. For a few years, it was my little space on the internet that not many people knew about, I'd take all my outfit photos in the comfort of my own bedroom with my trusty tripod and self-timer, and I would cringe whenever someone in real life mentioned my blog. Fast forward to now, I'm roaming the streets for outfit photos, posing in public (this still makes me cringe, big time), and openly discussing my blog with everyone I meet.

Adventures with Jamie. Jamie has soon become my own personal blogging photographer. With his new interest of photography and videography, we've become the perfect pair and blogging has resulted in us searching far and wide for cute new locations to shoot in, which often end up being fun adventures too.

Something unique. Although a lot more people are blogging now than they were 5 years ago, it's still a fairly unique thing for me. It's something that gives me that edge, and makes me different to other people. For example, it helped me bag my internship 2 years ago, showing a bunch of skills I have that perhaps the average person might not have.

Blogging mail and a little bit of money. Let's not lie, everyone loves a freebie, and lucky for me blogging means I get a bit more freebies than the average person. Money is another thing - by no means am I earning thousands on my blog, certainly not enough to be anything substantial, but one highlight of blogging is every now and then I can earn a bit of cash. For me, this money is different to the money I earn from my part time job, and it's cash I feel a little less guilty treating myself with.

Skills. Blogging has opened me up to learning a magnitude of new skills. HTML, photoshop, SEO, writing, you name it, I've learnt a lot. Creativity is a big thing for me, despite having a blog, I'm not that creative, but having this space on the internet has given me that chance to work on my creativity. I'm definitely a more skilled person now than I was 5 years ago.

What has blogging given you?

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

Magnitone London Limited Edition Barefaced Brush

2017-12-03T21:19:00.001+00:00

I 've had my eye on these facial cleansing bruhses ever since they came about a few years ago now, and recently I've been saying how I've been lacking on that secondary stage of cleaning. I'm great and cleansing my face to remove all my make-up and grub of the day, but sometimes I feel like I need a second cleanse, just to ensure my skin is super squeaky clean. Of course, when Magnitone London offered to send me one of their Limited Edition Barefaced Cleansing and Toning Brush*, I thought Christmas had come early.

In the box you get the brush, the two heads along with covers, and the magnetic charger. The lovely people at Magnitone London sent me the Limited Edition Serenidity Blue, but if you've got any blogger friends out there, the Rose Gold brush has definitely got their name on it this Christmas.

In all honesty - I don't know why it has taken me this long to get one of these brushes. I've stepped up my skincare game in recent years, but there's always been something missing, and finally I've got my hands on it. Super easy to use, this brush has both a cleansing brush head, alongside a toning head which you can interchange depending on what you fancy. Apply any cleanser to the head and switch it on once for the Stimulator Mode, or twice for the Pulse Lift Toning Mode.

Of course, I've only given the brush a couple of go's as yet, but I know this is going to be a really fresh addition to my skincare routine, and I'm definitely looking forward to clearer, smoother skin! This is giving my skincare regime that extra push to hopefully achieving my best skin yet!!

With Christmas just around the corner, this certainly would make the perfect gift for any beauty or skincare lover, and lucky for you, there is a discount of 44% in the leadup to Christmas!

Have you given one of these brushes a go?

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

5 ways to get into the festive spirit

2017-12-01T08:03:00.000+00:00

Urm, how is it December already?! As I get older, the years seem to fly by quicker and quicker. Despite not being a massive fan of winter, Christmas is up there with one of my favourite times of the year. The music, the food, the love - I love every little bit of it. But I know for some people, getting into the festive spirit might not be so easy. Here's 5 ways that might help you feel a little bit more christmassy...

Watch a Christmas movie. A few weeks ago Jamie and I went to see Daddy's Home 2 in the cinema. Christmas movies are the best kind of movies. My personal favourites being the likes of Elf, Arthur Christmas and of course Home Alone. They're sure to help.

Do some Christmas baking. One very important aspect about Christmas is the food. Go and bake some Christmas goodies! I'm eager to make some classic gingerbread men this year. Who know's maybe I'll try and go for the full on gingerbread house!

Go Christmas light hunting. I love heading out near christmas to go and look at all the Christmas lights. When I was younger there was a house which must have had the biggest electricity bill ever known to man because it's whole house was decked out for charity. It's magical!

Go for a walk. Of course, this can be done any time, but going for a walk in the brisk cold air helps me feel a little more festive. Christmas is about relaxing, taking some time off and getting away from everything - a walk with a loved one does just that!

Go Christmas Shopping. This might not be for everyone - stress levels can get pretty high when the town is packed, but I do love a bit of Christmas shopping. I tend to get a lot of my presents online nowadays but I love a trip to town, especially on a late night shopping night just to have a wander and get a hot chocolate at the end of it if nothing else!

Hopefully these suggestions will help you get into the festive spirit. What are your favourite ways to feel a bit Christmassy??

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

So...? New fragrances

2017-11-28T08:03:00.000+00:00

So…? bring back an array of feelings from my high school days. Back in high school P.E. body spray from the likes of So..? and Charlie were the shizzle. If you were spotted with one of those beauties, you were sure to be the most popular girl of the day.

As I’ve grown, body sprays have slowly been replaced by the more sophisticated perfumes. When So…? offered to send me some scents from their new perfume range I jumped at the chance. As a student I can’t exactly afford the Marc Jacobs and Chanel scents and your gal has got to keep smelling fresh one way or another.

The new collection is inspired straight from the latest catwalk, and the first perfume So…? scent (excuse the pun) me was their Floral Crush*. A light, feminine, you guessed it, floral scent. With notes of peony, rose, apples and waterlilies this is the perfect for the day to day wear.

I usually like to have a mix of lighter, day time scents, and more sultry, stronger scents for the evenings out in my perfume collection. So…? provided me with both! The next scent is Dark Romance*. A mix of madarin, vanilla and jasmine, this one has a much stronger, sexier scent which I can definitely see myself getting a lot of wear out of!

The best thing about the new collection is the price. For 30ml you pay just £6.99. Gone are the days of body sprays that wear off within a few hours, I can now wear a beautiful, long lasting perfume every day without breaking the bank!

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

Home Sweet Home

2017-11-24T07:48:00.000+00:00

I felt a bit lost not posting an outfit on my blog last week - I've got myself into my own little routine of posting an outfit every Friday and because I had friends up the weekend before last, and didn't see Jamie, so I didn't have my fantastic little photographer to shoot with. I'm so happy to have them back though, especially with a bunch of photos which could be some of my favourite yet. I've decided a bold lip automatically makes outfit photos 10 times better.

These photos just seemed to turn out so right, from the get go. It's very rare that I can shoot an outfit and be this happy with the results. 9 out of 10 times an outfit photo shoot ends up being 40 minutes long and in me being in a strop and Jamie having to deal with that. But this time, we were done and dusted within 10 minutes. If only all blogging photography was that easy!!

Top, Trousers & Trainers - ASOS // Jacket & Bag - Primark // Scarf - Topshop

This weekend I have a long weekend at home thanks to my lectures being cancelled and boy am I grateful. I love uni, but my heart will always be in Ipswich - as long as my friends and family are there anyway. Last night Jamie and I had a little date night to the cinema to see Daddy's Home. Despite seeing eachother every weekend I think it's still really important to make plans for date nights, and I hope it's something we can do forever. There's nothing like a classic trip to the movies is there? It was also my first Christmas themed movie of the year, so that totally means I am in full on Christmas mood now. That's totally ok, right?

Shop similar...

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

Pink Parcel

2017-11-21T08:03:00.000+00:00

Last week I took part in an instagram collaboration with Pink Parcel. Pink Parcel are a subscription box (I know what you're thinking, not another one) with a bit of a twist. They're not your typical beauty box, although they can have a few beauty related goodies in, they're actually a subscription service for when you're on your period. Absolutely genius.

Although I wasn't asked to write a blog post on Pink Parcel, I feel inclined too because I genuinely think it's a fantastic idea. Every month us women are left to deal with the dreaded period. Is there anyone out there that actually enjoys this monthly surprise? I doubt it. Enter Pink Parcel, there to make your totm a little bit more bearable.

For £12.99 each month, they'll deliver to your door all the period essentials you need. Decide whether you want pads, tampons, or a mix of both, the abosrbancy you need, the brand you'd prefer, and the date you would like them delivered and life is made that little bit easier. No more rushing to the shop when you realise you'd ran out of pads, the box has more than enough, with a pouch full 'for now', and boxes 'for later' and 'for night'. Of course, no gal can have a period without feeling a bit sorry for themselves. I mean, it's the perfect excuse to treat ourselves is it not? Pink Parcel deliver on that front too, with an additional box of little period goodies for you to enjoy.

In Novembers box there was a All in one Strengthening Nail Varnish from Nail HQ, a sheet mask from Beutanique, a lipstick sealer from Lipcote, a highlighting Glamazon Stick from The Beauty Crop, some Cocoba chocolate truffles, a tea bag from Cuppanut and some sanitizing spray from Swiss Clinic. The goodies in just this 'for you' box total to over £30 so the value for money in this box is really great.

I really loved this box. I find there are so many subscription services out there nowadays, but this one really hits the nail on the head. It's unique, it's good value and it helps make the worst time of the month a little bit better. What do you think of Pink Parcel?

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

My new favourite moisturiser

2017-11-17T08:03:00.000+00:00

I'm not one to spend a lot on skincare. In fact, I try to avoid the high end brands. Currently the only slightly pricier items I have in my skincare collection is the Pixi Cleansing Balm (£18), and the Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish (£15) which I asked for as a gift. Looking at these now, they're not the most expensive out there, but for a student on a budget, they're not your typical Garnier Cleansing Water that will cost you a fiver and last you a lifetime.

Enter the Clinique Moisture Surge. At £34 it really does pain me to say how much I love it. Back in October I attended a Norwich Beauty event at the city centre's Debenhams store, and in the hundreds of goodies I got to take away, a sample of this was in it. I can safely say, after a month or so of using up the sample, I knew I needed the full size product.

After using my trusted Cetaphil Moisturiser for years, this was a real switch up for my skin. It has a very light and watery consistency which at first I thought wouldn't do a lot, but actually acts as the perfect base for my make-up. Due to its light consistency, it soaks up quickly and provides the hydration I'm looking for. It is quite light, so I would imagine if you suffer from dry skin it might not be suited for you so well, but for my oilier skin, it's been great.

Despite the hefty price tag, a little does go a long way - the sample alone lasted a month and a half, after using it every day! Luckily for me I managed to bag this one with an offer so it didn't make such a dent in my bank balance. It's a big treat to myself, while I don't think I'll be able to afford another one once this runs out, I definitely think I'll be adding it to my Christmas list.

Whats your favourite moisturiser? High street ot high end?

Lucy x

bloglovin // twitter // instagram

The importance of treating yourself

2017-11-14T08:03:00.001+00:00

In life, I think one very important aspect is treating ourselves once in a while. Each of us are busy people, leading busy, and often very stressful lives. Without a treat once in a while I wonder how we would function properly. Now, I'm a student - while I wish treating myself was whisking myself off for a mini break to somewhere exotic, quite often it's simply having a lie in. And that's perfectly fine, and absolutely brilliant.

Sometimes days, weeks or even months can be tough. I know personally, I do an amazing job at juggling my degree, with sports commitments, running a blog, and socialising with my friends and family. Believe me when I say there have been tears, a lot of them, but I am great, and heck, I deserve to treat myself for all my hard work every now and then. I even deserve to treat myself just because. Why not? Here are 5 ways I like to treat myself..

Have a lie in. First term of third year has blessed me with no 9am starts, and boy do I love it. Don't get me wrong, I am a morning person and because of that I tend to set an alarm for 8ish on the weekday when I want to get some work done. Sometimes though, when I know I've been working super hard I switch that alarm off. Don't get me wrong, my annoying body clock will probably still wake me up as early as usual but being able to stay in bed on my laptop in the mornings for just that little bit longer every now and then does the world of good.

Buy chocolate. Duh. There is always an occasion to buy chocolate. A few weeks ago I had a particularly stressful day so decided to treat myself to a big old share bag of giant chocolate buttons (obviously I didn't share). The breakouts the next day were so worth it.

Get matching underwear. Like this* amazing set from UK Lingerie. Sometimes it's ok to not be a girlboss, but if you do feel like feeling like one, a matching set is sure to get you there.

Pizza. I really, really shouldn't do this, but I do. I order pizza takeaway for one. Sometimes the cravings are just too much, and I am writing a dissertation right? Do 10,000 words worth of typing burn those calories? Please?

Pamper. Run a bath, treat yourself to that expensive lush bath bomb, and chuck on a cheeky sheet mask. A pamper evening will always help soak off the weekly stress and get me ready for another week of them ahead.

If this post does anything, please let it be that tonight, you treat yourself, in whatever way you wish, because I know you deserve it.

Lucy x

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Bright Stripes

2017-11-10T08:03:00.000+00:00

Christmas is officially on its way. The scarves and gloves have come out for winter and I feel like this week we've finally got that crisp chill in the air. I kinda love it kinda hate it. I don't do well with cold but I bloody love a bit of Christmas spirit. I really should start my Christmas shopping. I'm not one to leave it until last minute usually but uni might get in the way of that this year. One year I will be one of those super organised people and have all my Christmas shopping done by November, just not this year.

Top, Belt & Trainers - ASOS// Jeans - Topshop // Bag & Coat - Primark

I bagged this top in ASOS's 20% off day last week, and boy do I love it. It's kinda ugly which makes me love it even more. Does anyone else have that? When clothes are ugly which makes them actually quite wonderful? Regardless, this might be one of my favourite purchases of winter. I actually made the ASOS order to find myself some new trousers, seeing as I seem to be living in these mom jeans at the moment, they're just SO comfy and easy to wear - it's surprising how often I will choose them over my skinnies nowadays. The trouser hunt was a success though, so hopefully you'll be seeing some outfit posts featuring something other than jeans soon.

Lucy x

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5 ways to get into a better headspace

2017-11-07T08:03:00.000+00:00

Some days I wake up, and I feel a little bit shitty. No particular reason for it, other than hormones maybe! My headspace isn't great and I don't feel up to talking to people or getting anything done. Having a horrible headspace is something I've accepted now - it happens from time to time and I've come up with a few little rituals or jobs I can do to help get myself out of that zone.

Tidy up. I don't know what it is about having a tidy up but it makes me feel so much better - I like to clear up my room, sort through a few drawers, refold all my clothes. Anything that involves cleaning or sorting helps clear my head too.

Plan your week. Being organised and knowing what I'm doing and when is a massive help. I like to have everything written down so I can see it in front of me. It helps me feel prepared for what's to come in the week.

Exercise. I love to head to the gym or play a bit of Netball too - everyone knows the wonders of exercise and although it sounds like a horrible idea at first, I feel so much better afterwards.

Relax. Sometimes I like to get out and do stuff, other times I simply need a bit of a chill and self-care. Read a book, run a bath, watch some netflix, anything that's going to calm and relax you.

Speak to someone. I know I said I don't feel like speaking to anyone, but a lot of the time telling people this is how I'm feeling today does help. I'll drop my mum a message just to let her know I'm having one of those days, and it helps lift off that tiny bit of weight on my shoulders. Often speaking to someone doesn't mean meeting up in person with them, just sending them a quick message, and it does the world of good.

Most importantly when you're having one of these days, I think it's about accepting it and embracing it. We can't feel 100% ourselves all the time and that's completely and utterly ok. It's good to 'waste' one day to get back on your feet and back on track for the next one, right?

Lucy x

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Cobbled Streets

2017-11-03T08:03:00.000+00:00

Outfit posts are definitely my favourite kind of posts to both read and share - as much as I love the odd bit of beauty and lifestyle, I feel like fashion is where my heart is at and something I really love sharing, even if I'm not the most fashionable person 24/7 (damn you netball 5 training 5 times a week!). There's just something about getting new clothes, or putting on a different outfit that you feel banging in, it's something I'll always have a love for.

Top - Missguided // Skirt - New Look // Shoes - Asos // Coat - Primark // Necklace* - Buckley London

Not that this outfit is out there, or bold in anyway, but I still loved putting it on and feeling great in it. I liked the slightly sophisticated feel of the roll neck, beautiful necklace and camel jacket, mixed with the casual vibes of my stan smiths that have not left my feet recently!!

Outfit photos are always going to be a little bit harder than most blog photos, for a start you're the other side of the camera which is scary enough! Add in the dodgy looks from passers by, the attempt to look natural and not an absolute miserable sod in the photos, and of course the darn weather and suddenly it turns out to be a pretty big challenge if you ask me. These particular photos were a bit difficult, to say the least. When the wind wasn't blowing my hair everywhere, there was someone walking past meaning we couldn't get the shot, and soon enough I got into a bit of a mare. Poor old Jamie does a really good job at not only getting these photos for me, but also dealing with my horrific mood swings when things aren't going right. Please tell me I'm not the only one?

On another note, it's kind of scary were into November already. This week marks half way through my semester for my last year of uni, which is slightly terrifying, added with the fact my dissertation is due in after Christmas. I'm not too keen on welcoming in the colder weather, but am very excited to get into the festive vibes again, even if they are slightly damped by my dreaded diss!!

Lucy x

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An Autumnal lipstick I wont be using

2017-10-31T08:03:00.000+00:00

Every now and again I come across a product I'm not too fond of. Unfortunately, the Loreal Matte Lip Paint is one of them. Autumn has rolled around and out has come the dark reds and berrys in my make-up collection. I'm not big with bold lips, but a dark red tone is surprisingly something I'm relatively happy to wear. I have two in my lippy collection already - a lovely matte one from NYX, and another from Rimmel which has a little more sheen. When I travelled back to Ipswich the other week to visit a local pumpkin patch with Jamie for the perfect Halloweeny blog photoshoot, you can imagine my despair when I realised I'd not bought either of my darker lipsticks home with me. Of course, my blog and my instagram could not possibly have all these pumpkin patch photos without a dark lip, so off I popped to Tesco for a last minute hunt for one. The Matte Lip Paint is what I picked up.

The colour of the lip paint - Apocalypse Red, is gorgeous, you can see it on in my post here. But that's about as far as the positive words go I'm afraid. I may have been a bit of a fool to buy it, but I blame the last minute panic.

Straight away I could tell the consistency may not be great, but I thought I'd give it a try and it would be fine on the lips. It's quite a thin consistency, with a lot of bloggers describing it as oily, which I definitely agree with. This makes it really hard to apply. Of course, I didn't have any lip liner which I think would be necessary for this, so I struggled for a while using just the doe foot applicator, trying to get a nice line of my lips and correcting with concealer at the end.

The finish is matte, and I did like it - I didn't find it too drying or uncomfortable on the lips, and it did seem to last for a while - I reckon I had it on for a good 4-5 hours and it didn't budge.

For me, I just can't seem to love this lip paint because of the formula and what a challenge it was to apply. I would consider trying it out with a liner in the future, and not sat in the front of my boyfriend's car using just the sun visor mirror!! I would be interested to give some of the slightly easier to wear nude shades from the collection though. Have you tried any of these lip paints? How did you find them?

Lucy x

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A Pumpkin Patch OOTD

2017-10-27T09:12:00.002+01:00

I'm getting all halloweenyy! I don't feel too big on Halloween this year, I don't have any major plans to go out and celebrate, but that didn't stop me and J from heading to our nearest pumpkin patch in attempt to get into the Spirit of things.

Dress - Missguided via Asos // Jacket - Primark // Boots - Clarkes

You can probably tell from these photos, that despite the sun shining, storm Brian was not playing. Trying to look cute while the sun blinds you from one direction and the wind blows all your hair either into your face or blows it in a way to make you look bald, is not fun. Nonetheless, I was not letting Brian destroy my chances of those instagram shots.

It was such a fun day out for Jamie and I, something we'd never done before and something we'll do again. After getting all these shots we did actually pick our very own pumpkins and had our own pumpkin carving contest the next day - something I've never done before!!

In terms of Halloween celebrations, we don't have a lot planned - I think this weekend will be a weekend of cosying in bed watching the entirety of Stranger Things season 2 which sounds perfect to me. What do you have planned?

Lucy x

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My favourite desk accessories

2017-10-24T08:03:00.000+01:00

Whether I'm at home or at uni, a lot of the time, I'm at my desk. I have endless essays to write (and an actual dissertation right now, help), as well as writing new blog posts every week. My desk is very important to me. It's my space of work, a clear mind and where all the positive and creative juices flow. A lot of people need to work somewhere other than their bedroom to be productive - to an office, a coffee shop or a library for example, but if my desk is decked out in all the right bits and pieces, I'm perfectly fine just there. Today I thought I'd share with you just exactly what I need on my desk to make it work for me.

A motivational quote. Everyone know's know I'm a sucker for prints and quotes. For years now I've been sticking wise words up around my workspace. Sometimes I can get in a bit of a rut and those words are just what I need to give me a kick up the bum and to keep going.

My planner. This is my holy grail. I would honestly be lost without my trusty desk planner. Every week I write down everything - what lectures I have, what blog posts I have going up, what netball training or socials I have, what I need to do that week, my weekly goals - you name it, it's on there. Having this on my desk to look at helps clear my mind and organise my week so much better. Some people work by having all this inside their head but I really love to write it down as a visual aid to help me through the week.

Books, stationary, post-its. There are always books on my desk, whether they're for uni or for my own fictional enjoyment! Of course stationary is a no-brainer, although I do a significant amount of work on my laptop, some tasks are done much better with a pen and paper. Recently I've made sure I have a chunk of post-it's handy to help with different things pottering about in my brain. I've used them a lot for sorting out my dissertation structure, but also for blog post ideas or anything else that pops into my brain that I'm sure to forget about.

Of course, they're the main bits and pieces, but there are plenty of other things that help me get by at my desk. Some snacks, while I work, are always well appreciated, and a cup of tea is nearly always sat next to me. The writing juices always flow better when I'm well fuelled!

Lucy x

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Letting it go

2017-10-21T10:13:00.001+01:00

This post is a little late. Since January I vowed to myself I would post at least twice a week for the whole year, and soon picked up the schedule of a new post every Tuesday and Friday. Of course, yesterday Friday rolled around and although I had some photos, I had no words. I wasn't really feeling it. I'd planned to write it up Thursday night, but I ended up having a bit of a shitty day and my head just wasn't in it.

Jacket - Primark // Jeans - Topshop // T-Shirt & Belt - ASOS

That's why I decided to have a chill night, take some time out to do nothing and feel a bit sorry for myself. I like to think I'm quite good at dealing with bad days. I allow that day to be a write-off, buy myself some chocolate and feel sorry for myself, but by the time morning comes around I'm ready with a fresh new attitude, and even more drive to make the day a positive one. Friday I had just that, got a bunch of work done and felt positive once again, and here I am on Saturday finally getting this post written and gone live.

I think that's the most important thing - accepting that you're going to have bad days, where unexpected things happen. Allow yourself some time out, and then simply getting up and moving on the next day. It's all about balance and fighting back with that new attitude.

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Lucy x

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