Sofia's Journal || UK Lifestyle Blog

ash bowie wedge hi top trainers

2013-05-15T11:35:00.000+01:00

Ash Bowie in Black c/o Zalando - currently on sale for £130 with free delivery

Hey ladies! How are you all doing? Shoes again. I know, I know, I may as well just rename this blog 'Shoe Journal' and be done with it. I promise I have something other than shoes to show you soon. In fact, I just took a bunch of photos of a few new cute things and a bit of a make up splurge so I'll get those posted as soon as I can.

I swear my shoe 'wardrobe' will be complete soon. It seemed like I needed new everything at the start of the year and I've been slowly but surely building back up my collection. This ~~crappy~~ unseasonal weather has really thrown a spanner in the works. Anyone else absolutely livid at this never ending winter? I have a ton of summer clothes and cute sandals crying out to be worn!

Anyways, I just wanted to check in to share these amazing high tops by Ash. This style is a true blogger favourite and they can be seen all over the blogosphere. I particularly liked the black because they seem to match with pretty much everything and I love the leg lengthening effect when worn with black skinnies. The heel height is perfect and they are super duper comfy. I haven't tried yet but I'm convinced I could wear these all day long without a second thought. I don't think this trend is everyone's cup of tea but if you like the sport-luxe look then these are a winner. Before ordering I spent a lot of time umming and arring. I really wasn't sure how I felt about them from simply viewing images online. It was only when I spotted them in Selfridges and tried them on in person that I was sold.

What do you think of this trend? Love or hate?

Psst... if you're thinking of ordering online consider going up a size. I literally always take a 4 or 4.5 but I needed a 5 in these. They run small. Oh and I can certainly vouch for Zalando. Superb web site, outstanding (and a tad overwhelming!) range with free shipping and free returns. Definitely a new favourite.

a cute new wash bag by sew lomax

2013-05-04T13:56:00.000+01:00

Men's Wash Bag c/o Sew Lomax

I recently received this awesome embroidered wash bag and couldn't wait to share. It's actually designed for men but I picked it out for myself because I thought it was so unique and different. Hey, it even has a pink ribbon (removable) attached to the zip so I think I can get away with it! The design really attracted me; in particular the contact lens case and geeky glasses because that's me.

The bag itself is huge so at present I'm actually using it for all my go to hair products as a means to keeping them all together and separate. That way, if I have a night or weekend away I can grab it along with my hairdryer and straightening irons without having to think about what I need.

You should definitely take a look at the site girls - so many fun and quirky way to organise your stuff. They'd make such lovely gifts, especially the camera case, penny purse and perfume pouch. Can you tell I want them all?!

p.s. when perusing the products you'll see a 'more bags' icon below each listing - this allows you to move on to the next design. It's not immediately clear so I wanted to point it out to be sure you can find all that's on offer.

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something different - clarks yarra desert boots

2013-04-25T14:15:00.001+01:00

Yarra Desert Boot in Walnut Suede c/o Clarks

When I was offered the opportunity to try out some shoes from Clarks I wasn't sure whether I'd be able to find anything suitable. Clarks isn't somewhere I've shopped since I was kitted out in school shoes. We're talking yonks ago. I came across the Yarra Desert Boot and was intrigued by the glowing reviews. That same week I noticed pictures of Rachel Bilson and Jennifer Garner wearing almost identical shoes and that swayed me. Granted, Jen is a fair bit older and a mum of three (not suggesting mums aren't cool! They are!) but Rachel Bilson is a similar age and has always been a bit of a fashion role model in my eyes.

I think they're pretty cute! I like the height of the wedge heel. They're perfect for wearing all day long because comfort wise they're like nothing else I own. So comfy! Clarks do half sizes so I was able to get my ideal - UK 4.5 - and the fit is perfect. I'm looking forward to wearing these with bleached out jeans and my huge cream knitted cardigan - just right for casual weekends.

Have any of you shopped at Clarks as an adult? What do you think of the boots?

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celebrating spring ~ a short break to abersoch

2013-04-17T22:21:00.000+01:00

Shoes I packed: Joules Posh Welly / Dune Moroccos Brogue / Converse Dance

Sorry to continually talk about the weather but I'm British and that's what we do. In the depths of winter (wasn't it grim this year?) we booked a trip to Abersoch to look forward to. My boyfriend wanted to go in March but I stood my ground and said lets hold off until April because surely the weather will be glorious. Not so. I bet my British readers can guess which pair of shoes I got the most wear out of. Holidaying in Britain makes packing so difficult. I feel like you have to take a zillion options in the hope that one will work with the weather conditions.

This was my first time to Abersoch. Everyone in my area goes regularly and I wanted to see for myself what the attraction is. We had a relaxing time and the beaches are gorgeous for sure but I didn't find it all that inspiring. I judge a place on how many quirky, interesting things I discover to photograph. As you can tell from this post, there weren't all that many. I guess the beach alone (and some good restaurants) are enough of a draw for most people. Or else perhaps I didn't look hard enough?

Our cottage was delightful. Full to the brim with colour (bright red sofas and rainbow striped cushions) and littered with quaint seaside ornaments. Ironically, alongside photographs and art prints of Abersoch were masses of pictures of my favourite place in the UK - St Ives. Lovely to see but it sort of made me a little sad that I wasn't in St Ives. The cottage was so cosy that we spent most evenings there cooking up a storm followed by a film. Eating out was reserved for cooked breakfasts and fish and chips.

Have any of you been to Abersoch? Tell me what you love! I'm sure we'll go back so I'd love to hear your recommendations.

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a few new obsessions...

2013-04-11T08:30:00.000+01:00

I was looking around for some pale jeans for summer and stumbled upon these - 'Jamie' by Topshop. When I tried them on in store I hadn't realised that they're 'ankle grazers' so was shocked when I pulled them on and looked like I was wearing my little sister's jeans! They were super short and not what I was looking for so back on the shop floor they went. Later that day I noticed the reviews on the Topshop web site. Most reviewers had bought them in the longest length so they'd fit like a normal jean. Back to the shop I went and tried on the 32" leg length (actual measurement is 29" inside leg after shrinkage from initial wash) which on my petite frame fit absolutely perfect. The fit is skinny (a little like a jegging) with a slightly high rise that completely banishes muffin top (yay!). They have all day stretch technology so I've found the fit to still be exactly the same as when I first tried them on (i.e. perfect!). I found the sizing to be slightly generous if anything. I'm typically a UK 8 but took the UK 6 (25" waist) in these. And what's a girl to do when she finds a pair of jeans that work? Buy a pair in every shade, of course.

I had no preconceptions when I received the Nourish Argan Skin Renew c/o Feel Unique but have absolutely loved using it. It's quite rich, without feeling too heavy, so has been useful on my dehydrated post-winter skin. It does seem to do what it claims (boost skin hydration levels) and it's very calming. I like to slather it on if I'm having a make-up free pamper day at home.

Ahhh, Origins. I love you so. I wanted to really give this selection of skin care products a good run of consistent daily use before sharing my thoughts but I'm eager to at least mention it to you all now. I'm using the Plantscription SPF 25 cream in the morning and the Perfect World serum before bed. The Clear Improvement mask is nothing short of sensational. It really works for me! So far so good - I'll keep you posted.

Essie 'Cute as a Button' - my new summer nail colour sorted! I adore this! It's a coral/watermelon in-your-face kind of colour for sun filled days. It just so pretty. Swatch to follow.

Is anyone else as excited as I am that winter may actually be over?! I'm so happy to escape from hibernation, pull out my maxi dresses and store away my coats. I never feel like taking photographs when it's cold and grey but when it's bright it's all I want to do. I'm looking forward to getting back into it again. What are your current obsessions? Any cool finds to share with me?!

an easter present to remember

2013-04-01T13:29:00.001+01:00

I didn't receive a single Easter Egg this year! Instead I was fortunate enough to receive a Mulberry Continental wallet. It was a huge surprise and I absolutely love it. The colour is 'oak'. Now I just need to purchase some kind of leather protector. Any tips on keeping Mulberry leather in good nick?

I hope you all had a very happy Easter. I've used it as an excuse to eat far too much chocolate and have developed a worrying addiction to Mini Eggs. I even scoured a couple of shops this morning to see if I could find any but they're no longer on sale. Cruel!

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what's in my bag?

2013-03-14T20:33:00.001Z

Just a quick look at 'what's in my bag'. I haven't done one of these posts for such a long time and always love reading them on other blogs. I was so over all the black, grey and brown that I've been wearing throughout winter that I bought this green bag from Topshop on a whim. It's not my usual style but I like the size and as it was inexpensive I'm not concerned if I get bored of the colour quickly. It has a long strap so that it can be worn across body.

Everything else: wallet, Topshop / leather gloves, Topshop (old) / Filofax Personal Domino (info here) / Cath Kidston phone case / Soap & Glory make up bag (old) / Neutrogena unscented hand cream / Revlon Lip Butter / Balmi Lip Balm / Liz Earle Powder Foundation

If you've done one of these posts recently please leave your link in the comments section!

four of the best > kindle cases

2013-03-07T19:03:00.003Z

Here are a handful of my favourite Kindle cases. This was a reader request following on from four of the best iPad cases and DSLR camera bags.When choosing a case for your Kindle be sure to check it's the correct size as Kindles now come in different sizes.

#1 So girly! £17 - buy here
#2 Beautiful leather in a choice of colours for £30.99. This has amazing reviews. Buy here.
#3 I liked the clasp detail on this. £29 - buy here.
#4 I'm a sucker for anything with a chevron! Cute and simple (£19.85) - buy here.

I've shied away from owning a kindle for so long but recently I've been toying with the idea more and more and wonder if I should subtly drop a hint before my birthday this year. I'm such a lover of books - we have a huge bookcase packed full to the brim that's nestled on our landing. There are more boxes full stored away in the loft. I think it's the space books take up that has me thinking I can't continue to buy them (as much as I love them)! We simply don't have the space. What are your thoughts on the Kindle? Isn't there a Kindle app on the iPad mini? Would it make more sense to buy that?

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one line a day : a five-year memory book

2013-03-05T18:48:00.003Z

One Line a Day Journal £8.27 at Amazon

I've never written a journal in my life. Looking back I'm glad. It could quite easily have fallen into the wrong hands in the busy household I grew up in! Given that I'm now well into my twenties and feel happy and settled in my life, I have the urge to record more memories. I thought this would be a great way to do that.

The journal itself is beautiful - a gorgeous colour with luxurious gold detailing and made to last. On the back is a little panel which reads "Each page in this keepsake journal features space to record the events of the same calendar date over the course of five years. As the pages fill, you'll discover happy coincidences and relive forgotten moments, adding unexpected joy to all your days and years." Cute, right?

Have any of you kept a journal?

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march sponsor love!

2013-03-04T12:14:00.000Z

Please click on each of the ads below to check out some amazing bloggers and small businesses who are supporting me this month! More frequent posting should resume this week guys. I've been so poorly these past couple of weeks which has been strange because I really am that person who is never ill (don't hate me!). I'm looking forward to getting back to normal. Onwards and upwards :)

gym freak > get motivated with a new kit!

2013-02-28T21:51:00.000Z

the sports bra / the print top / the capri pant / the leggings

One January a couple of years ago I really got into the habit of exercising regularly and fortunately, that habit stuck. I now love staying fit and honestly ~~mostly~~ enjoy the time I spend working out. One thing that really helped me initially was to kit myself out with some good fitness clothes. There's nothing more demotivating than not having the 'right' stuff. I love performance clothing because it makes working out so much more comfortable. The selection of tops and bottoms I have all still look as good as new even after two years regular wear, so it makes sense to pay a little more for items that will last for a very long time. JD sports have an extensive collection of women's performance clothing that's worth checking out. Pictured are a handful of my favourite items which would be on my wish list if I was just starting out.

p.s how are the new year's resolutions going girls? Any of you stuck with the exercise habit like I did?

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bb creams > rimmel, garnier & dr jart+

2013-02-26T19:50:00.000Z

I'm sorry it's been a little quiet round here over the past week. I've been so poorly and have spent my days tucked up in bed feeling very sorry for myself. I don't think it was the flu but it certainly felt almost as bad. I'm on the verge of booking a holiday because my body is craving rest, recuperation and some much needed vitamin D. Anyone else really need to feel the sun on their face?

Anyway... I've been wanting to post about BB creams for yonks so I'm glad to finally get round to it. It's a great time to post because I'm sure we'll be headed for warmer days soon (pretty please Mr Weather Man) and that's when I think about wearing something a little less heavy on my face. Last spring/summer Bourjois Healthy Mix (I went through bottles of the stuff) and the Liz Earle Sheer Skin Tint were firm favourites and I'd certainly be happy to continue using either. Nonetheless, I have a bunch of BB creams to try. The market is absolutely flooded with BB creams right now - this, this and this seem to be the most raved about. Here's some info about the few I've played around with so far:

Rimmel BB Cream 9-in-1 Make Up £6.99

I don't know about you but I'm going to raise my eyebrow at any product that claims to serve 9 functions. 9? Really Rimmel? This claims to prime, moisturise, minimise pores, conceal, cover, smooth, mattify, brighten and protect. It's good but it's not that good! Kudos to Rimmel though - this is a good product, especially given the budget price point. It's comfortable to wear, covers pretty well and looks natural. It won't wow you and you may notice it's lasting power isn't superb. There are better options out there (at a higher price point) but to throw in my suitcase to go on holiday (it has SPF 25!), yes, I'd buy it again.

Dr Jart+ Water Fuse and Premium £18-£22 for full size (mine are sample size) c/o GlossyBox

These are high end BB creams with SPF. Water Fuse claims to control sebum production from sweat (therefore preventing streaking) and Premium claims to help fight ageing. I really like both of these but I'd find it painful to purchase at full price. Having said that they are the perfect product for hot summer days and holidays away. You can lay by the pool and still look like you have amazing skin. For that fact alone, whoever invented these BB creams deserves a medal. I've tried all of the Dr Jart+ BB creams now and can't fault them. They feel incredibly high quality - luxurious on the skin - and really do create a flawless look without the weight of a traditional foundation. I rarely have spots to cover so I can't comment on the coverage from that perspective but if your issue is simply uneven skin tone then you'll probably love these.

Garnier BB Cream Miracle Skin Perfector Eye Roll On Light £9.99

Wow, this really surprised me. I'm not usually a fan of Garnier but I know they've had quite a lot of success with eye roll on treatments and this newly released product has proven just as popular. I suffer from dark circles when I'm overtired or rundown - nothing that a heavy duty concealer can't fix (I like Bobbi Brown) but sometimes I feel like it can look unnatural and slightly caked on if you're not careful. I found this roll on lived up to its name - it is actually really quite miraculous. You can't tell there's product on your skin but dark circles are significantly diminished. I love that it doesn't settle into fine lines (yes, I have a few!) and illuminates rather than masks, if that makes sense? Wow, just, wow. Very impressive.

Have you all jumped on the BB cream bandwagon? Any recommendations?

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primark spring summer 2013 > in stores february

2013-02-18T21:38:00.001Z

I haven't stepped foot in Primark in forever and I'm now feeling like I really must take a trip on up there, especially since viewing the spring 2013 collection online. Everything you see above is dropping into stores throughout February. I sort of lost favour with Primark when I chose to buy less but better quality clothing. Having said that, Primark is very tempting for the upcoming season. It seems like we get so few sunny days here in the north of England that it makes more sense to me to buy a disposable summer wardrobe since I probably won't get much wear out of it anyhow and by next year I'll be bored of whatever I do buy. Make sense?

Have you had any good Primark finds recently? Anything I should look out for?

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a dreamy valentine's day wish list

2013-02-13T12:30:00.000Z

We are just not one of those couples who celebrate Valentine's Day. I think it might be my turn to cook up a bit of a special meal and I'm sure we'll exchange cards but as far as gifts go I can only dream. Not that I'm complaining. I get spoilt at Christmas, birthdays and our anniversary so I'm happy to let Valentine's Day slip past almost unnoticed. If we were that kind of couple, here's what I'd be hoping for.

01: Candles are probably a really boring choice for a lot of people. I, on the other hand, cannot get enough and I currently have one on the go every evening at home. Lily Flame Candle, £15

02: I am the queen of list making. Seriously. It's such a running joke between me and my boyfriend that this would be the most perfect gift he could buy me.

03: These Pink Champagne Truffles (£9.75) are to die for. Taste so good.

04: I'm getting quite the collection of novelty mugs. This one (£19.95) by Emma Bridgewater is so sweet and I'd really love to drink my morning coffee from it.

05: A fancy schmancy watch. Ok, clearly this is a dreamy wish list. If you have a massive pot of money (lucky you) I think Frederique Constant watches are quite understated and cool (although really rather pricey! see here). A vintage Rolex would be nice too. I do intend to buy a watch this year (# it's on my 2013 to do list) so I'm busy investigating my options!

06: I'm such a fan of quirky and original artwork. I just wish we had more space at home as our walls are pretty much full up! Wouldn't this (£65) make the loveliest Valentine's Day gift?

p.s there's still time to make a batch of my Lazy Girl's Red Velvet Cupcakes to give to your chap tomorrow! I'm making some more this evening :)

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real techniques (by samantha chapman) > stippling brush

2013-02-12T13:36:00.001Z

Real Techniques Stippling Brush, £10.99 HQhair

I'm sure a lot of you have heard about Real Techniques make up brushes. There's a lot of buzz around them. Up until now I'd been using a mixture of Mac, Sigma and No7. I've been happy with each of those brands but it's always nice to try something new. I recently lost my Sigma F80 Flat Top Kabuki which I've used daily as a stippling/buffing brush for foundation. This gave me the perfect excuse to purchase the stippling brush by Real Techniques.

The brush head is smaller than I imagined and not as densely packed as the Sigma F80. I've been testing it out with various foundations and am delighted with the result. It really does help you achieve that polished, flawless, almost airbrushed look! I don't think anyone would be disappointed with this brush and I'm now dying to try the rest in the collection. On a side note, I tried the Liz Earle Signature Foundation last week with no primer and with using my fingers to apply and blend rather than a brush. The result was even better which just goes to show a brush isn't always the answer for every product!

Victoria discovered that the Real Techiques collection is being sold via iHerb for exceptionally cheap prices. Quite amazing really. I'm tempted to buy the whole lot. I can personally vouch for iHerb, having purchased various supplements and health foods from them over the years. Shipping to the UK is cheap and fast, just be aware of any potential customs charges if your purchase exceeds a certain amount (I think it's around $23 - anything below that should be ok but please do your own research! If your order is higher than this you pay 20% VAT on top when the order arrives in the UK) Use code YUF326 FOR $5 off your order (no minimum spend). For example, using this code the blusher brush will cost me $7.99/£5 shipped to the UK which is half the price it's selling for in the UK. Bargain, huh?! Good find Victoria!

p.s my little glass brush holder is actually a £2 candle holder from IKEA. It's a perfect place to keep brushes and the heavy weight patterned glass makes a nice addition to my dressing table!

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step into spring { shoes, shoes & more shoes }

2013-02-11T12:30:00.000Z

Every year when spring is imminent I go a little crazy over shoes (hello new favourites!). Something about having to live in boots and thick socks for more than six months makes me want to buy every single pair of cute flats, sandals and heels out there. I really want another pair of Converse in a vibrant colour. This turquoise pair would be perfect. I have several weddings to go to this year and am on the look out for a pair of statement heels to dress up a couple of fairly plain dresses I own - I love the coral accent on the Louboutin-esque heels! And these nude flats would go with just about anything wouldn't they? You can find these and many more shoes at Bank Fashion.

What shoes do you have your eye on for spring?

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Zara ankle boots with studs & buckles

2013-02-08T11:05:00.000Z

ankle boots - £25.99 - Zara

When I ordered my nude flats from Zara these ankle boots just happened to hop into my basket. Previously, I'd had no intention of buying something quite like this but when I saw them I wondered if I should step outside my comfort zone and try them. I think they're a little like marmite - you'll either love 'em or hate 'em. They're not exactly understated are they? I figure with a simple outfit (skinnies/white tee) they could look pretty cool though especially when they've been worn in and don't look quite so new. I don't know if there is a price fault on the web site - they're now showing at £25.99 but when I purchased them last week they were £59.99! £25 seems like a steal for a pair of Zara boots doesn't it?

What do you think? Love or hate?

p.s. if any of you try the Lazy Girl's Red Velvet Cupcakes please let me know how it went!

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lazy girl's red velvet cupcakes

2013-02-06T17:25:00.001Z

Red velvet cupcakes are one of my favourite treats. I've been making them for friend's birthdays and other special occasions since I was a teenager. I want to bake my boyfriend something for Valentine's Day and immediately thought of these because I couldn't remember a time when I'd made them for him. I call them my 'Lazy Girl Red Velvet Cupcakes' - they're foolproof and super quick. You can whip these up in an hour and pretend like you're a domestic goddess. A surefire way to impress the boyfriend or hubby even if you have a hectic life and feel like you're way too busy to faff around in the kitchen. These might not look quite as professional as the one I bought to celebrate my first blog birthday but the taste is to die for. Absolute perfection.

Yup, that's right, we're cheating. But, shhhh! Nobody need know but you and me. You'll need Betty Crocker Red Velvet Cake Mix and Vanilla Icing, which can be found in any large supermarket. Additionally, three medium eggs, water and vegetable oil are added to the mix.

The instructions are all on the packet but you simply throw all the ingredients into a bowl and mix with a whisk until smooth and creamy. If you have an electric mixer, great, but I don't so I used a traditional metal whisk. The mixture should just about make 12 cupcakes. I used these silver baking cases but you can place the mixture straight into a metal or silicone cupcake tray if you prefer.

After 23-28 minutes in the oven they should look like this. Slightly crisp on the outside and delicious and moist on the inside. Now for the fun part. The vanilla icing comes ready made in a tub which means you literally scoop it out with a rounded knife or spatula and cover the top of the cupcake. It's not supposed to look perfect so that's what makes it so foolproof. You honestly cannot go wrong! I added red heart sprinkles for decoration, but you can add whatever you like.

I'm not sure if you can tell from the photo but the inner has a definite red colour. So appropriate for Valentine's Day! If you fancy trying these for yourself and have any questions just leave a comment and I'll reply.

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february sponsor love!

2013-02-05T19:26:00.000Z

Please click on each of the ads below to check out some amazing bloggers and small businesses. If you'd like to see your advert featured here next month you can find all the information you need right HERE.

Zara nude studded flats

2013-02-04T14:04:00.000Z

studded slipper - £25.99 - Zara

I recently purchased these nude studded flats by Zara and I think they're absolutely perfect. I haven't dared venture outside in them in this weather. I'd rather wait until a sunny spring day for their first outing. Did I already mention how ready for spring I am? The price seems pretty reasonable considering they have a decent sole and feel so comfortable to wear.

We changed around our bedroom over the weekend and my dressing table is now positioned in a different area which has much better natural light than before. I really think it's going to help me with blogging as I finally have a well lit surface on which to take photographs of products and whatnot. Hooray! I have another pair of Zara shoes to show you - I'll blog about those sometime this week. Hope you all had a great weekend xo

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a to do list for 2013 :

2013-01-31T16:30:00.000Z

Well, I'm a little late to the party posting this but I think that it's still meaningful provided I publish it before January is over and it certainly makes me feel more accountable than if I fail to share it at all. It's not a long list - 2012 was so good for me that I don't have many wants or wishes!

To Do:

* Make my home my haven
* Drink green juice more than three times each week
* Take a two week holiday abroad in the sunshine
* Complete a photography course (started Jan 2013)
* Learn some Photoshop techniques
* Host a great party
* Bake something for Valentine's Day
* Attend a concert
* Declutter
* See a musical
* Go for afternoon tea somewhere quirky
* Buy a watch that I'll keep forever
* Get a professional manicure at least once a month (1/12)
* Watch a complete popular TV series
* Take a weekend away somewhere I've never been in the UK
* Watch 12 new films
* Buy a Christmas jumper early before all the good ones sell out
* Read 4 fiction books

Tell me what's on your to-do list for 2013! I love hearing what your plans are. And for those who set yourself goals at the start of the year, how's it going?

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[ image source unknown ]

valentine's day cards for boys

2013-01-29T11:02:00.000Z

Valentine's Day is fast approaching and I just started thinking about how to treat my boyfriend. He seems to appreciate it most when I place a tin of home baking in front of him. He bought me a baking book for Christmas so I'll take that as a hint. Now, finding the perfect card is not so easy. Having been together for a good few years now (and with knowing each other far longer than that) I feel like I've exhausted all the good cards, you know? When I discovered these chic black and white cards by Paper Society Co. (via The Sweetest Occasion) I instantly thought they were perfect, especially for boys. Love.

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the sunday click list > blog edition

2013-01-27T20:55:00.001Z

image : gal meets glam

I fall in and out of love with the internet all the time. Right now, I'm all over it and have become obsessed with blogs again. Curling up with a cup of tea to catch up on a good blog is one of my favourite pastimes. When I connect with one on a personal level it becomes truly inspiring. Below you'll find a list of my current faves. I was going to write up a little blurb on each but instead, you should just hop on over and make up your own mind. I haven't bothered to categorise these into lifestyle, fashion, beauty etc as I find that the ones I frequent most often are a combination of all sorts and don't necessarily confine themselves to one genre.

Thanks for stopping by to check out my posts. Please don't click away before you leave a comment telling me your stand out favourite blogs. Come on, share the love!

Love:

Gal Meets Glam // Karla's Closet // Mariannan // Sailor Jennie

What Olivia Did // Eat Sleep Cuddle // Rose & Whimsy // Blush & Brunch

The Londoner // Ghost Parties // Vivatramp // Sunshine Sam // Take Courage

Sequins and Stripes // Lily Loves Lola // Essie Button // White Winters

Pearls and Poodles // Atlantic Pacific // The Daybook Blog // VIPXO

Love Taza // A Rosie Outlook // Cider with Rosie // Amy Antoinette

Special Mentions:

The lovely ladies in my right sidebar deserve an extra special mention.

Sugarpatch // Tabitha Emma // Wonder Forest

A Rosy Day // The Way I Wanderlust // Small Anchors

Ok, well, that is a whole lot of blog love. Enjoy! Leave your blog love in the comments box below...

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acrylic makeup storage > capsule collection

2013-01-25T13:26:00.001Z

Recently, I chatted about needing to declutter the mountains of beauty products I have stored here there and everywhere. Well, I did declutter and here's me being all organised. I loved the concept of the Essentials collection by Aerin Lauder and simply decided to create that for myself.

Having purchased this small acrylic storage container from eBay (search 'acrylic makeup storage' if you'd like to try it for yourself) I bundled together my current daily essentials - those items that I use for my everyday face. To have it all grouped together like this has made getting ready in the morning much easier. Now I just need to discover the best solution for the rest of my stash. I wonder if a huge acrylic drawer unit might be the answer, with a separate draw designated to eyeshadows, nail polishes, lip products and so on.

How do you organise your beauty products?

Products I'm using: Liz Earle Signature Foundation (review) and blush (review), Laura Mercier Foundation Primer, Bobbi Brown Concealer, Tweezerman tweezers, Palmers Cocoa Butter lip balm, Benefit The Porefessional, my perfect red lipstick (featured), Revlon Lip Butter in Berry Smoothie (review), Lancome Juicy Tube in Fraise, Revlon Lipgloss in Pink Pop, Max Factor Lash Effect Mascara, Estee Lauder Double Wear Concealer, Max Factor Eyebrow Pencil, Simple Eye Makeup Corrector Pen, Rimmel Eyeliner Pencil, Avon Perfect Wear Liquid Liner.

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four of the best > ipad cases for girls

2013-01-23T13:44:00.000Z

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Last month's 'Four of the Best' post (dslr camera bags for girls) seemed pretty popular so I thought some of you might be interested in this selection too. I don't have an iPad but if I did I'd buy one of these.

And here is as good a place as any to say hello to new subscribers! I had a few lovely mentions from other bloggers this past week which has sent some new readers my way, here and on twitter. To those who've been around for a while - I really can't thank you all enough for continuing to stop by and read. I love this little space but I couldn't do it without you. Thank you!

Since I've had a show of support from the blog world this week I thought it was about time I offered up more of the same. I used to write a regular feature called 'The Sunday Click List' which always included recently discovered blogs I liked. This Sunday I'm going to publish a 'blog edition' which will focus purely on blogs. So, nows your chance - if you have a blog leave a comment with your blog address and I'll check it out ahead of this feature.

Sofia xo