Lily Melrose - UK Style and Fashion Blog

Why you need to see the Grand Canyon

2016-05-10T17:00:00.000+01:00

I've actually been to the Grand Canyon before. Last year I went on a Trek America with some pals and it was awesome but I was also tired, broken and felt like I didn't appreciate it as much as I should have done and it was something I really regretted. I knew on my recent trip to the US I was going to make the 4+ hour drive from Vegas to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and appreciate it properly.

It’s weird as you walk onto Bright Angel trail to make the epic hike down to the bottom. You soon realise you’re stepping on rocks that are like a million years old. Rocks that have been there since the dawn of time while the dinosaurs trotted over and probably perished on at some point too. You’re stepping on a part of history and thats pretty bloody cool.

It’s hard to capture the beauty and sereneness of the place - Its pure unspoiled canyon land. Red rocks for as far as the eye can see. Mesa's dotted around and towers of endlessly stacked toppling rocks that look like they could erode any second, all flourishing around the icy blue Colorado River.

If you ever have the opportunity to I totally recommend taking the time to visit the Grand Canyon. South Rim, not the West which is a pure tourist trap. Avoid the gift shops and pomp and stay for at least two days if you can. Visit it properly like I did the second time and take in every second of it’s being rather than just ticking it off your bucket list. Been there done that just isnt enough. I went to Ankor Wat a couple of years ago and experienced the same sort of thing, but it was incredibly packed and nothing compared to the peace and simple stillness of the Grand Canyon.

It is a spiritual and sort of out of body experience, In some ways being there made me forget all about the things in my life that bothered me and I allowed myself to take in the beauty of my surroundings without fear worries or sadness. Go see the Grand Canyon and experience something pure and unspoiled by modern life.

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What I Wore on a Road Trip

2016-05-09T17:00:00.000+01:00

I hardly took any snaps this time I was on holiday this time around and Im kicking myself now Im home and having a severe case of the holiday blues. I also have the post holiday sickness (????) and feel like a bag of poop to boot. If you want to see any of the snaps I took last year when we stopped off in Seligman last year then you can see them here.

W/E though, I thought I'd share the outfit deets from my Insta against this cool American flag wall. When I saw it I was like dingdingding I've hit the instajackpot right now (although I didnt hit any jackpots while in Vegas though, sadtimes). I just knew it would be so perfect for a snap or two!

I really recommend stopping off in Seligman if you're on your way to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas. It's really cool and fun and well worth stopping off at to take some snaps or grab some lunch. Dont bother driving down Route 66, it takes wayyyy longer and isn't really a complete road anymore or that used anymore. Plus a lot of the lil' towns along the way have a similar kooky (literally the first time I've ever typed that word and Im still laughing at myself now) vibes and all claim to be the birthplace of Route 66.

I wore a simple white playsuit, a necktie, my faux leather jacket (because it was actually p. cold while I was at the GC, it even snowed one day!) and then I wore some brown booties to round off the outfit! Quite comfy but still stylish, albeit a bit on the chill side!

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Budget Skincare worth Trying

2016-05-06T17:00:00.000+01:00

Sanctuary Spa 5 minute Thermal Detox Mask*

Sanctuary Spa Warming Detox Charcoal Wash*

This little twosome have been gracing my chubby baby face as of late and I thought it was about time I got on to giving you lot the low down on these two budget skincare buds.

Sanctuary Spa Warming Detox Charcoal Wash (try saying that quickly out loud 4 times in a row!) is a more suitably priced alternative to the uber pricey Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip Cleanser or the Ren Clear Calm 3 Clay Cleanser.

When I first opened it and saw that the cleanser was legit black as the dark nights sky I was taken back in horror. Think the shocked emoji face. That was me.

However it's a gel like formula that goes into a sort of milky cleanse-y type deal once water is added and left my skin feeling squeaky clean, refreshed and deeply cleaned.The warming thing is a bit odd at first but not unpleasant. It's not like hot hot, more like a mild warming. Kinda like a spa experience without the price tag. Word of warning, keep this shizz away from your eyeballs. Dont make the same mistake as I did!

Sanctuary Spa 5 minute Thermal Detox Mask is a hard working lil mask that sucks out skin impurities and reduces oil with ease. Perfect for calming redness and irritation too as it's not drying like some clay masks. It's a good one for a quickie face mask as it only needs 5 mins to do it's ting which is good when you're low on time.

At £9 and £10 they aren't bargain bargains BUT they are pretty budget friendly for awesome skincare that actually works. Theres so much bad skincare out there at lower price points it's definitely worth looking for some diamonds in the rough. Oily and combo skinned gal's this is for you however, neither are particularly stripping so would be good allrounders.

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31 Outfits to Inspire you in May

2016-05-05T17:00:00.001+01:00

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Let's Catch Up

2016-05-04T17:21:00.000+01:00

Hey.

Im sitting down to blog considering I’ve completely lost my voice and if I tried to voice my feels it’d come out as a croak.

It’s been a while hasn’t it?

If you don't follow me over on social media (here and here) then you wouldn’t have known that I’d spent the last week in Vegas for my Birthday. It was a blast and to blame for the afore mentioned lack of voice. Delayed hangover probs.

Point numero uno. I really miss blogging. Although Im sure you’ve heard me wail that before in the last 6 months and are like GOD LILY YOU ARE SO FLAKEY. But bare with me here.

I’ll openly admit I’ve gone off blogs in the last year or so. I don’t know why, I think I finally *got* youtube and now I spend my days watching kids toy demos and watching people do fast food reviews in their cars. Yeah the weird part of Youtube.

But there is still a soft spot in my heart for blogging and after a quick refresh of my Bloglovin feed, out with the old and in with the new I feel a bit more inspired too actually tap out some things.

Part of it is the fear of coming back and part of it just feeling like Im not that good at it? Im no Wordsworth and my copy could be greatly improved but at the same time it’s cathartic and nice to just put some words on the screen. Plus I can type from behind my screen in my jim jams pretending Im looking FAB even though Im currently wearing a Monument Valley Hoodie, ugly off white socks and my Christmas Jim Jams.

I’ve been feeling p. content recently. I feel like I’ve finally worked out all the kinks in my life and feel at a place where I can move forward and most importantly upwards. I had a wobbly few months earlier in the year where I thought my anxiety was going to get the best of me but after a few deep breathes and some Beyonce on repeat I feel like myself again.

Im generally a pretty self aware and self assured person. The kind of person who can support themselves and doesn't need other people to make them feel good. Most of the time I can get myself out of funks and feeling like poop but y’know those periods where the littlest thing can send you off on a path of self destruction? Yeah one of those?

I think that having down periods is part of being a human and it’s perfectly normal to not always be 100% on it. Social media makes us feel like we have to be up and at ‘em all the time but it’s cool to have a few days to yourself focusing on your own mental health every now and again.

Stopping myself from overworking myself and stressing myself out has really changed my ability to cope with the work I have on my plate and the things I do and thats cool.

Uh, What else. Im not sure where to go from here. A lil life update, well Im in the process of buying a house. I don’t really want to move from my flat as I do love it but I know I should be investing my money in property rather than sitting on it waiting for a rainy day.

Why isn’t stuff like this taught at school? I’ve read so much about house buying and mortgages I don’t even know who I am anymore. I feel like a kid who was accidentally allowed to grow up and do all these adult things even though I have no idea.

Other than that my life is back to it’s overwhelmingly normal self. Which to be honest is when Im most happy. I like working on my own personal projects and videos and doing simple things like going for chips on the beach or going for a bike ride. I've learnt to focus on me time and doing the things I want to do rather than keeping up with the Joneses.

I’ve tapped out a few more posts for the rest of the week today but who knows how long this burst will last. If you’re still here then cheers for sticking around. You’re the real MVP. Ta x

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Baby Blue Jeans

2016-04-28T09:00:00.000+01:00

AMERICAN EAGLE TOM GIRL JEANS*

So I've barely taken these jeans off since I got them. Seriously these things have become my absolute go-to. They are the new and improved Tom Girl Jeans from American Eagle which they so kindly sent over to me are probably my current favourite jeans. First things first. Whoa, blue jeans? Lily have you gone mad? Nope just embracing something else for a change. AND I LIKE IT.

I don't think I've worn blue jeans in forever ever, FOREVER EVER. I cant remember buying my last pair and I could easily quote when I bought my last pair of black one's (last week). I think I put myself in a little box where blue jeans felt off brand (gotta keep things on brand 24/7) and not me so I never even looked at them. Not sure why I came to the conclusion that Lily Melrose doesn't do blue jeans but low and behold there I am in blue jeans.

I'd love them in a even lighter wash and even a grey or black too. Pls American Eagle. Make my jean dreams come true!

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Indie Waves - Haim Inspired Hair

2016-04-21T12:16:00.002+01:00

I thought I'd post up this video I made a few weeks back over on my Youtube channel on here as it's a pretty cool video (not to toot my own horn) and I always get questions about my hair and how I actually style it to "look like that". Im actually getting my hair cut and coloured today so it's likle ynot going to look like this for much longer though! So if you want to get Haim (not ham, which I type like 100 times when trying to write this post) inspired waves with a sort of boho/indie edge then this video is for you! Hope you like it!

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Go Big or Go Home!

2016-04-20T09:00:00.000+01:00

REDKEN HIGH RISE VOLUME SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER*

Now that my hair is somewhat on the mend (although I'm actually getting my hair done next week, so HELLO BLEACH I'VE MISSED U BOO) I was in the market for a new shampoo and conditioner. While moisture is all well and good it's way too heavy for the current state of my hair. Pureology Hydrate will forever be the key to keeping my hair in good condition, I just think we should see other people.

I've been using two different product ranges from Redken recently to keep my locks in check - One being Redken Beach Envy which is v. lovely but I think I've firmly decided on loving Redken High Rise Volume a little bit more.

It's kinda hard to describe it, it sort of lifts the roots and gives natural volume without making the hair feel like a bird's nest or chock a block full of product. I'm really not all about that "higher the hair the closer to Jesus" life just a little bit of omph to my flat mop of hair.

High Rise Volume gives the hair a little bit of a boost with a cool girl sheen, think subtle texture and lightweight volume - hair with a bit of body!

If ya wanna get sciencey then it's a volume-boosting blend of filloxane and softening polymers which create lift that lasts. Not so clued up on all that jazz but it sounds fancy and certainly is doing a little something to my hair

Theres a bit of a trend at the moment for more styling based shampoo and conditioners rather than treatment shampoo's and conditioners of old. Im digging it for sure. Go Big or Go Home!

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Come Shopping with Me!

2016-04-10T13:06:00.000+01:00

This post is SPONSORED by Westfield Stratford City

So today I’m teaming up with ultimate shopping destination Westfield Stratford City to take you on a shopping day out with me and show you some of my spring picks! If you’re unaware, Westfield Stratford City is a shopping centre, come entertainment complex with a bunch of restaurants and food outlets to suit every taste - all under one roof.

Confession time - I hate shopping in central London. It’s busy, hard to navigate and a pain to get around as shops are so spread out. Back when I lived in SW London Westfield London was my old haunt but I decided to hit up Westfield Stratford City because it’s pretty easy to visit now I live in Brighton. After a smooth, sunny ride up to London in my little car, and strategically parking near the car park exit closest to Topshop I was ready to go. One of my pet hates going shopping is carrying about my bags all day. Having my car close means I can nip down and put my heavier things away and keep going!

I’ve always found Westfield Stratford City is one of those places that take a day to go out and really enjoy. There something crazy like over 250 shops to choose from, a plethora of places to eat and drink as well as other places to keep you entertained like their Vue cinema.

So what did I buy I hear you holler at your screens? Well! I picked up a backpack from Zara that I actually saw on online recently but I wasn’t too sure of the size so wanted to check it out in person before deciding, as I didn’t want to go through the tedious returns process that I’m very familiar with. Being able to go in store saved me the hassle and that disappointing feeling when you get something and don’t like it IRL!

I also bought myself a lovely oversized blue shirt from Topshop - I have an affinity with all things denim at the moment and this just caught my eye. Also from Topshop I ended up getting ANOTHER pair of Quay Australia sunglasses in their My Girl style. I’m sure you’ve seen me wear them before at some point but I just love the unique cat eye style! The orange lenses are just pure fire too; I can’t wait to wear them on holiday later this month!

I also go some cool Skinny Dip patches that I’ve wanted for a while As I hadn’t seen them in person and finding sizing online was impossible I knew I wanted to see them with my own eyes before committing! Thankfully they were just what I was looking for in the end! I’m going to customise a bag with them so keep your eyes out for that!

After a good ol’ rummage through Topshop we ended up stopping for some lunch at one of my favourite spots - Yo Sushi. I know it’s gimmicky but it’s one of the best fast food options and super healthy (kinda, although Pumpkin Korokke is life)

We also popped into American Eagle Outfitters, as I adore their denim. I was umming and aahing over getting another pair of my absolute favourite jeans the American Eagle Tomgirl jeans but I already have two pairs so I decided to be good. They are the perfect summer jeans though with the current trend for light ripped denim in a relaxed fit. I saw some nice summery bits I might go back and take a closer look at too that would look perfect on my American Road Trip too.American Eagle Outfitters is located at both Westfield Stratford City and Westfield London, which is very handy.

Last purchase of the day were a pair of Birkenstocks - Something I’ve always sort of not loved but then for some reason on that day I needed some. I think I actually saw some super cool girl wearing some when we were walking around the center and was like hmmm - I could do with a pair of those. My mum is a proud Birkenstock wearer - she was so pleased to hear about them!

I picked out a few key pieces to keep me going through spring. In contrast to going online and buying things, where I’d normally end up picking tons of things at a time incase I didn’t like something on when it I eventually received my package. Going into the store cuts out the waiting for the parcel, the disappointment if something isn’t quite right, having to get a different size and the returns process.

Westfield Stratford City also has a handy product search on their site, here (click) you can look through items in stores before heading to the centre to get an idea of things to keep your eyes out for. I found this really useful because I could make a mental note of the clothes I wanted to check out!

So those were the things I picked up! Full of sushi and a couple o’ bags in tow I headed back to Brighton feeling like I achieved something while shopping in store for the first time in a long time. I tend to shop online but I found it so nice having a lovely day out in the centre catching up with my friend Corrine, having a browse in the shops as well as having a nice little lunch! All with the added bonus of not having to go through the hassle of returning things or things looking different online than they do in real life!

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Photos by Captured by Corinne website/twitter/facebook

Do you need to live in London to Blog Sucessfully?

2016-03-21T16:54:00.004+00:00

So, I moved to Brighton over SEVEN months ago now! It's really flown by but I thought I'd answer a really common question that I get in relation to living in London and blogging. Moving away made me realise one thing - London really isn’t the be all and end all of the blogging world.

I lived in London for about 4 years. I moved there after I'd spent a year of going to London 2-3 times a week for blogging related things. One day after a long commute to London (my journey was 4 hours there and 4 back) decided that I want to live in London. So I moved, it was great and I lived their for four years and for the majority of my time I loved it. However moving there didn't really improve my blogging life at all, inf act it hindered it in so many ways that Im only realizing now Im out of the London trap!

It’s something that I see come up time and time again in blogging chats is that “you need to live in London to be a successful blogger” or “All blogging events are in London” and while it may have been the case a few years ago but in 2015 it’s simply not true.

The biggest argument I see about London being the centre of the UK bloggerverse is that that’s where brands and events are. Which is true, to some degree as thats where the majority are based and held. None the less I see events happening all over the country happening these days and little blogging meet ups from all over the UK popping up on my Twitter feed! It's so awesome to see communities growing all round the country!

I'll be completely honest... I haven't been to a blog event in years. Im not snubbing the idea of attending a blogging event although it might seem like that. Of course, I have a skewed view because Im an arguable successful blogger with already established connections with brands so I dont really NEED to go to events so much. But when I lived in London I never wanted to go into the city outside "work hours" because I always wanted to spend my evenings doing something I wanted to do with my friends!

While I do think events are useful for new bloggers to get their name out there by meeting PR’s face to face and meeting up with likeminded bloggers but I don’t think they are something that you MUST attend or something you feel you should travel halfway across the country to go to. They simply arent worth it, there's very little value in blogging events in my opinion. But of course it has to be noted that the best part of events has always been meeting other bloggers. It’s not the free stuff or meeting with XYZ PR or the delicious free mini burgers and champs (although that seems to now be green juices and yoga events) it was always the meeting face to face of people you follow and who's content you love.

It’s actually very rare that I attend events these days and I don’t think I’ve been to a press day since I moved to London. Press days are arguably completely useless to blogging audiences. (Personally) I think readers want see what I can buy right this second not in 3 months time. Things like this work for long lead press but not so much in the blogging world where it’s a culture of here and now.

And while yes brands are in London and yes events are often held in London but both aren’t a measure of success. If a brand wants to work with you they will get you to wherever so don’t feel you need to be on standby in London incase they call you up to work with them. Because they don't do that. While being London based is helpful for meeting brands, Id recommend setting up a whole day of meetings rather than coming in and out of London all the time.

There are plenty of bloggers out there who do incredibly well and don’t live in the city so don’t be blinkered by the promise of London for your blog because it’s not about where you live it’s what you’re blogging about. Beyond events and what really is there that London offers for bloggers that you can’t get anywhere else in the country? Blogging is based on the internet, not in London.

Another thing, London is SO expensive and you get pretty much nothing housewise for your money. My old rent was £750 a month plus bills and I had a pretty mid sized room in a 6 bedroom house share. I lived in a good location and on a nice street but its nothing compared to the place I have here in Brighton. While I obviously pay more as I have a two bedroom flat to myself pretty much anywhere outside of London you can get a much nicer space for your money. Cramping myself into a tiny one bedroom (which I lived and worked in) was horrible and stressful and there was no separation between work and rest!

So bottom line, in my opinion I dont think there is much value in moving to London unless you want to live YOUR life in London. The best things about London are exploring new places, eating new foods, meeting new people and experiencing life. I absolutely loved my years in London and I wouldnt change them for the world. But moving specifically to enhance your blogging life? Dont do it!

(Obviously this is aimed at a UK based blogger audience, but feel free to sub London for your countries blogging big city!)

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Spring Lookbook

2016-03-20T17:19:00.000+00:00

Me and Jon made this mini lookbook video a few weeks ago and it's finally gone live! I know things are quiet on the fashion front over here - Im not sure why considering I have 5 outfits shot and edited already!

Anyway I hope you like this little snipped into my current wardrobe and get a little bit of inspiration from my take on spring style! Check it out above or over on my channel for all the links to the items I've worn and what not!

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Candy K & Koko K Swatches & Review

2016-03-13T15:30:00.001+00:00

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Sweet Smelling Hair

2016-03-11T11:53:00.003+00:00

Damn Batiste back at it again with the dry shampoo. I think Batiste now cover each and every scent known to man in their dry shampoo offerings. This new dry shampoo is infused with notes of raspberry and vanilla which helps to banish oily roots and lift lacklustre hair by adding body and texture. Batiste is a daily staple in my hairdrobe to help give it some life and a bit of grit before styling. If you have super soft fluffy hair this is as much as a lifesaver for you as when you have slightly greasy hair.

Overall I like the scent, it does smell very sweet and feminine without being childish or overpowering. I wanted to it to sell like the Fudge Vanilla and Raspberry hairspray but it doesn't quite reach that level of sweetness. Which is a darn shame as I love that so much! All the goodness of traditional Bastiste (Tropical will forever be the one) with the sweet smell candy. Absolute dream team. If you havent tried Batiste yet... where have you been?

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Best Burger in NYC

2016-03-02T17:56:00.000+00:00

Bare Burger is my absolute favourite spot in New York to eat. I love burgers more than anything in life and switching my diet up, I needed a plant based option. Bare Burger is a small chain restaurant with joints all over NYC. It's a great lunch spot in a pinch, with friendly simple service. I got a sweet potato and rice patty on a sprouted roll with guac, pickles, spinach, onions and lettuce. It was the best burger I've had in a long long long LONG time and as I type this I wish I was eating it right now instead of waiting for my pasta to boil. Woe is me.

Anyway regardless of your diet I'd totally check out Bare Burger if you see one around. They have a variety of burgers, salads and sandwiches to suit all tastes. I totally recommend the build your own burger option so you can get exactly what you want, oh and don't skip on the half onion rings and half fries!

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Things you need: A Trench Coat

2016-02-29T11:28:00.000+00:00

I bought this classic beige mac when I was in Japan last year believe it or not, I can't remember how much it cost or the name of the shop but it's one of my favourite wardrobe pieces. I've been on a seemingly never ending search for a beige and I even pondered getting a Burberry Trench - although, tbh I might still get one! I need to get my butt over to Bicester Village!

Im a believer that everyone needs one of these in their wardrobe. Mixing an old school trench coat even more modern, chic basics really ups the sartorial style factor. Trench coats come back every single season and never seem to go out of fashion. A timeless piece that we never seem to tire of. Definitely make it a key piece in your wardrobe, especially if you crave sophistication and elegance with a air of unpretentiousness. A trench coat is versatile too as you can wear it over casual outfit for everyday occasion or in the evening over elegant dress. It's a good all rounder and an absolute must in my opinion!

Camel coats look awesome looks paired with a all black outfit. It's chic, simple and effortless and incorporating the black and white stripes justs adds a very Lily nod to my look at the same time. Im obsessed with these little shoes from ASOS too. Plain black brogues have always been a staple in my wardrobe but there is something about these ones that seem to barely leave my feet! As I've been really into flat shoes for a while now and after a seemingly never ending stream of trainers and whatnot these have firmly settled as being my current favourites.

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Photos By Jon Barker (edited by me) & follow him on Twitter @JonDBarker

Ashish AW16 Report

2016-02-25T16:34:00.001+00:00

This post is SPONSORED by Maybelline

Whenever the opportunity arises to cover the Ashish show, I'm there in a second. I was invited backstage with Maybelline - London Fashion Week's official beauty sponsor. I missed last season though which was a delightful array of girls on skateboards and spring inspired glitters. Ever since I started going to Fashion week many moons Ashish has always been one of my favourite shows, Along with Shrimps and Anya Hindmarch, Ashish always offers something unique, off beat and fun. Ashish is always about sequins and being bold and daring while also strangely wearable. I never knew I needed a sequin evening dress or a jumpsuit, but maybe I do now?

This season was filled with 70's disco style nods and matched up colours. Every shade under the sun was represented in a celebration of all things bright and outrageous. I always think that Ashish looks have a borderline couture feel to the garments, to be honest which some people might find too much, but for a magpie like me my eyes just dazzled!

Leomie Anderson (a personal fave of mine!), Poppy Okotcha and Lily Fofana to Kiara Ridgell and Summer Thompson kept the show diverse and varied which is always a signature of Ashish shows. He truly shows diversity well and celebrates colour of all kinds, not just in the clothes.

Each look was created by Sharon Dowsett who is always a delight to meet. She's so passionate, warm and interesting and she always creates something unique with the products she has on hand. The beauty look was fairly simple with a slight twist - Each girl was assigned a colour block colour and the whole look was themed around that. Skin was kept fresh and light with a mix of Baby Skin Primer and Maybelline Fit Me Concealer and a touch of the Maybelline Dream Velvet Touch if needed. The backstage artists were using the new Dream Blender to apply foundation seamlessly, it’s shaped to blend and perfect, a great pro tool.

She said she tried to make bright and offbeat more flattering shades easier to wear by incorporating hues on some models rather than going all out brights. Don’t get me wrong there was some extreme pops coming from the Maybelline Colorsensational Lipsticks but it was cool to see how she handled the trickier shades.To create a unique blend green tinted lip shade she mixed a green eyeshadow from Diamond Glow Drama in Forest Green the with Baby Lips Hydrate. The shows hero product was the new Maybelline The Falsies Push Up Drama which pushed up the lashes and kept the eyes looking defined without being overdone. Brows are tamed with the Brow Drama mascara for a natural but refined look.

Nails were by Michelle Humphrey using a vast paintbox of different shades of the Maybelline Nail Colour Show range - again to match the models assigned colour.

There was serious 70’s vibes going on with hair and body glitter paired with the signature Ashish sequin overload. It was just fantastic and an awesome spectacle to see. I’ve already been eying up their SS16 collection and thinking about how I need way more glitter in my life.

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Sephora Haul

2016-02-25T14:25:00.002+00:00

I thought I'd posted this Sephora HGaul over on here when I posted it on my chnnel a few weeks about but clearly I hadnt. Whoop..

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Sunset at the Beach

2016-02-24T12:45:00.004+00:00

Since moving to Brighton I spend a hell lot of time down the beach. I actually only live about a 5 minute walk from the seafront and I can see the sea from my kitchen window which is a lovely added bonus. When my pals Marisa and Jon came to visit a few weeks ago we decided to go down to catch the sunset and prime gold hour photoshoot time. I spent most of my time running away from the tide and trying not to get my Stan Smiths filled with sea water but it was super fun and so beautiful.

I practically live in these American Eagle jeans at the moment, I wear them pretty much everyday to the point I think I might actually go buy another pair because I hardly take the damn things off. I never in a million years thought I would turn into a blue denim girl but it just feels so right!

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Photos By Jon Barker (edited by me) & follow him on Twitter @JonDBarker

Why dont you blog anymore?

2016-02-20T12:21:00.002+00:00

I've been sitting on this question for a while while I get my head around the ins and outs of why I so rarely post on this site anymore. It's not for lack of love or ideas... I just feel so overly focused on my Youtube channel the spare moments between editing and shooting videos leaves very little time for me to do this. It's silly because I could easily knock a post together within a few hours and it be done, but I'd much rather spend that time thinking about my next video or finding a stupid meme to post over on my Twitter.

I do want to start off with saying I do love blogging, It is after all where my whole online journey started. As someone who has been blogging for over 7 years now (full time for 4) I knew near the end of 2015 I needed to challenge myself again. I became complacent with my place in the blogging world and go back to making content I wanted to see.

I've never faked myself online. While I obviously censor a lot of my life, especially a lot of my personal life (purely because I don't feel it's something I want to share with strangers). I've always been that girl with the messy hair, swears like a fishwife and drinks too much at the weekend. Im 25 for gods sake and even though I have those granny days and days where I want to do nothing but cry I think that my life is whatever I want it to be. I have so much freedom as an adult that I don't know why I worried so much about what I looked like online.

7 years on and I've gone back and captured some of that feelings I had as teenager I was when I started. I still love music and art, way more I'll ever love fashion and beauty but that doesn't mean it's not a huge part of whats shaped me as a person in the last couple of years. I never wanted to work in the fashion and beauty industry, I get so many emails asking how to get into the beauty and fashion industry but I dont consider myself part of it at all. Social media, sharing and creating has always been my focus when being a blogger. Not the writing part or the freebs or the money - I've always used being online to share photographs and imagery that reflect me.

I can't recall a catalyst of me deciding that I was fed up with trying to keep up with everyone else and trying to do what they do online. The blogging life doesn't interest me so I decided to move away from London and focus on the part of blogging I enjoyed - the creating part.

I used to consider myself "good" at blogging. I loved photography and creating imagery and then being able to share my thoughts freely with like minded people. I enjoyed it and in turn the love that I put into my website and then the love I got back made me feel like I was doing well. I've never been a strong writer but I always felt that I was able to visually get my point across. When blogging when commercial I felt like it was something I was never going to keep up with. Call me a little bit anti- establishment but I hate editorial style blogs, they just ooze glossy which while I know some people live like that my like is a teetering mess between being my flat looking like it's been hit by a bomb and wearing matching underwear. I'm a proper hippy at heart who grew up with very little boundaries which I am very thankful for. Fitting in was never my main priority growing up but why as a twenty something was I so hell bent on fitting into a cookie cutter blogger mold.

I was so uninspired by blogging and everything it was offering me I decided to stop focusing on it and do me the best way I could. I actually very rarely read blogs anymore unless I'm looking for information on a product or a bit of light relief. I adore blogs that have a point to them or a story, ones that make me laugh or make me nod along thinking yup, I so agree. The rise of Instagram cut out the what I wore today bridge of outfit posts and now I consume most of my imagery over on Instagram and Twitter means I'm constantly updated with pics of whatever exotic location someone has jetted off to. Theres just so many options out there these days for curating your own content I always ponder if there is even a need for a platform like blogging. I do think it has it's place but I dont know what that is really.

I'm always a firm believer that if you want to do something then you make time to do it. There's no if's and buts, if you want to do something you will no matter how hard it takes.

I switched to making three videos a week early this year and it's been one of the most fulfilling experiences I've had in a long time. I find it a challenge to think and create on the spot within a very short time frame. I love seeing my views go up each month as well as that little sub count growing and growing. Mainly because I feel like I'm earning it again. I feel like I'm creating something I love and in turn people love that. Nothing compares to the buzz of your blog, channel or Instagram growing at a steady consistent rate. To me that's more fulfilling than anything I've experienced in a long time.

I'm so behind on the YT game compared to others, and to be honest I feel like I've only just started out on the platform, despite having 197k subs. I thought I used to care how I was doing in comparison to others but now I'm so happy just focusing on me and my stuff. Making videos that I love and want to watch rather than trying to get praise and love off other bloggers who's videos I probably didn't enjoy in the first place.

I think the point is I stopped finding blogging challenging and in some part as engaging as I used to that's why it's cooled down over on these parts and I've been more active on social media and Youtube.

I find it sad so many people out there don't take the time to learn new skills and improve their videos or blog posts creatively. I know that it's hard learning new things, especially as an adult but no one ever woke up and was a photoshop wizard! Taking a hour or so a day to learn a new editing technique or photography skill can take your creativity from 0 to 100 real quick. Plus is so rewarding knowing how to do something new!

Everyday when I'm editing a video or filming something I learn something new and exciting to further myself creatively and be able to produce content that I think is the absolute best it can be.
I've kinda just word vomited here so I hope it makes sense. The point is I've cooled off blogging a bit because I'm enjoying making videos more than I am blogging. I have a backlog of outfit posts, tons of half written ideas and thoughts that I do want to work on at some point but who knows when I will. I've not stopped blogging I just haven't really figured out what I want to post on here yet and I'd rather post something half decent compared to something quick and half arsed.

Regardless, Like I said, I make videos over on my Youtube three times a week and I focus a lot on curating my twitter feed like a micro blog. I do want to get back into consistently posting on here but when that will be I dont know. Im still working on that area. So if you stick around cool, if not then I'm glad you subbed to this blog in the first place. Youre all awesome no matter what. Peace.

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Get Ready With Me February Edition

2016-02-08T16:52:00.001+00:00

Been awhile since I've done an actual outfit post hasn't it? Its just been one of those really annoying few months where me and my photographer Jon just haven't been able to sync up and get things done. Every time we've booked a shoot in it's either rained, I've been unwell or it just didnt work out. However him and his lovely girlfriend Marisa came to visit so we decided to shoot a bunch while they were here!

I've been digging chambray a lot recently and this lovely lil' (well not so little) oversized shirt from Topshop last week before immediately dismissing it because I thought I looked like Miranda Sings. A bit of restyling later and a non of inspiration in the form of stalking some of the Old School Olsen twins looks and this outfit was born. Huge chunky platform boots which I've had from Office for goodness knows how long. They are extremely chunky but compliment the looseness of the shirt really well. Big Fan.

We also shot a Get Ready with me Video which I posted over on my Youtube channel which you might want to check out of videos take your fancy (:

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Pureology Shampoo and Conditioner

2016-02-03T09:00:00.000+00:00

Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner

I ALWAYS use the same brand and make of Shampoo and Conditioner, I don't know where I picked this habit up because my Mum isn't fussy at all but I simply cannot use a shampoo that's from one brand and a conditioner from another. Redken Extreme has been my bae for years but I thought it was about time I changed and started using something new... well its not new as I had used it before but I decided to switch over to the Pureology Hydrate range.

The shampoo has a smells lovely with notes of Ylang Ylang, Bergamot, Anise, and Patchouli. It's really lovely and refreshing. It lathers quickly and easily, rinses well without effort and doesn’t leave my hair feeling clean without being stripped or squeaky. The Conditioner is oddly cooling and has a very odd feeling on the scalp. I was worried when I first put it on that I was having a funny reaction but I've learnt to love the cooling feeling it has. I think it has some minty fragrance in it as it reminds me of when you use that Original Source Shower Gel.

It keeps my hair looking super soft and moisturised and perfect for drier hair types like my own. It's also sulphate free, cruelty free and vegan which is always a good line up in a product. I buy the 1000ml's from Look Fantastic which means I get tons and tons of uses out of the bottles. I think I managed to nab the two bottles for less than £45 which is a damn good deal for that much product.

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Pointed Snakeskin Toes

2016-02-02T15:33:00.002+00:00

I'm really into wearing flat shoes at the moment and while on a regular ASOS browse I spotted these little babies and knew they needed to be mine. I've talked before about my love of printed/patterned shoes and how much I adore the contrast that they add to my predominantly black outfits. I wore them out at the weekend so they aren't as pristine as they were when I took this photo which makes me sad but I love 'em anyway! I might even buy these extremely jazzy white glitter toe capped ones but I really... really... don't need any more shoes in my life. Or do I?

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Burgundy Lips for Spring?

2016-02-01T09:00:00.000+00:00

Stila Chianti is a new permanent addition to the Stila Stay all Day Liquid Lipstick lineup. I've got two shades from the Stila All Day Liquid lipsticks, which were infact my first ever foray into liquid lipstick many moons ago. The velvety, creamy texture is forgiving on chapped lips and dries to a soft opaque matte finish. I've worn this so many times since it dropped through my door a few weeks ago and I just cant get enough of it. It lasts so long on, but be conscious that it does rub off in the middle during eating and drinking!

Chianti is a deep dark plum that comes off very purple on me but I really like it. Purples and browns are taking over my makeup routine at the moment as I favour a more grungy look at the moment. It's an odd choice for a spring look but it somehow just works for me.

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What Foundation Do You Use?

2016-01-29T09:00:00.000+00:00

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation £33*

While I'm still mourning the discontinuation and subsequent reformulation of my beloved Laura Mercier Silk Creme I THINK I've found my new favorite foundation. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation is hailed as a providing a flawless, poreless and long lasting base. Sounds good right?

I have two shades 4 and 5 which both suit me well but I think 4 is probably a spot on match. It's a pretty high coverage foundation but can be sheered out depending on how much you use. I use a buffing brush to apply but a stippling brush would give a sheered more refined coverage. It leaves the skin looking radiant and smooth without a sign on cakiness. It doesn't sit in lines or pores and has a pretty decent staying power on my combination skin. It doesnt break me out which is always a bonus. My skin seems to hate most foundations and ALWAYS freaks out whenever I try something new.

My favourite way to wear it is mixed with a generous pump of the Becca Shimmering Skin Tint in Opal. It results in a flawless lit from within medium to full coverage base that dreams are made of. The foundation is pretty glowy alone but I think adding the skin tint just adds a little bit of something to really boost it.

If youre familiar with Estee Lauder double wear then it's very similar to that in terms of coverage but doesnt give the face a mask like feeling like the Lauder one. I do really like this and I have repurchased it when I bought a different shade from the one I was sent originally so I guess I must like it. While I dont think it's ever going to take over my deeo love for LM SC, Having and affair with Charlotte Tilbury isnt bad.

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A Cleanser for Your Brushes

2016-01-28T09:00:00.000+00:00

Lottie London Soap Star £6.99*

Washing my brushes more frequently is something that I make a beauty resolution to do every year but never get round to it. The Lottie London Soap Star is a solid brush soap which deep cleans brushes with ease and removes germs from dirty brushes.

To clean all you do is wet your brush and swirl it in the Coconut Oil and Shea butter infused solid cleanser to create a lather. Then simply swirl the brush in your hand and wash as normal and leave to air dry on a towel. Compared to using the baby shampoo method I used to use before my brushes are left cleaner and softer with a lot less scrubbing. The packaging is really cute and small, so it's travel friendly. It's also 100% vegan.

I really like using this, I've started keeping it in my bathroom cabinet for cleaning my deep cleaning brushes every week compared to before where I'd use every single brush in my collection before going to wash them. It's quick and easy and leaves my brushes clean and in turn my makeup application is much smoother.

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