Quite recently, I was sent a super cool GRL PWR t-shirt from LOTD and it got me thinking about what exactly girl power is.
Firstly though, let's talk about my outfit. Whilst the mom jeans are an old River Island purchase, the t-shirt is new and one of my new favourite things to wear. Even better, it's actually only £5 - also available in black too. I actually love LOTD as they have so many trendy but affordable pieces, so I'll definitely be having a splurge on there soon!
I am in love with these Miu Miu sunglasses from Smartbuyglasses. They offer full protection from UV rays; using metal with plastic frames and a slight cat eye style.
So, what is "GIRL POWER"? Is it supporting every female out there? Most people think it is. However, if I did that, then I would be supporting every asshole, bitch and toxic female on this planet. Therefore, I support anyone who supports me and I think that's the best way to action girl power in real life. I keep my circle small and it works wonders, trust me.
I have touched upon this lightly in regards to how I am fed up of bitches on the internet being shady with other girls and therefore killing the idea of girl power. However, now it's time to think about the positives. Other than being in a brilliant whatsapp group with a number of other bloggers and supporting every female that I follow on social media; I looked closer to home.
If you are fortunate enough to have a sister, then you'll most likely be able to relate to this post completely. If however if you don't have a sister, then maybe you'll be thinking of a best friend or even your mum when reading all of these points.
Here's 6 reasons why having a sister is great.
1) She's the first person I tell everything to
Whether it's the latest guy who's pissed me off or if I need advice about a sticky situation, my sister is always there to listen. You should always have one person in your life who will tell you exactly how it is. I am like this as a person and it must run in the family, because my sister is programmed the same way.
I know I can throw my problems on the table and she will give me her honest opinion about the situation. She will give me the look of death if I am being absolutely ridiculous and cry or rant with me if she agrees with me.
2) We support each other with everything
We are both creative people but in different aspects. I know I can fully rely on my sister to help out on things with my blog if I am really struggling for time or need help with photos before the sun goes down. Even though she hasn't got a clue how blogging necessarily works, it's wonderful to have a person in my life who genuinely supports me with everything.
Likewise, I am as supportive with my sister's creativity. She sings and acts and I am always there at most of her shows, cheering her on and feeling very proud to be related to her.
3) We laugh about our fights
We have had some fights over the years, about things that I can't even remember. However, our relationship is so strong and unbreakable that we make up straight away and end up laughing about what has just happened.I am a stubborn Capricorn and don't usually do anything first; text back first, send that good morning message, apologise after an argument etc. However, I do with my little sis.
4) No one else understands our humour
It was just a few weeks ago that we was at a family friend's party and we was changing the lyrics in every song that came on to involve the words 'smelly bums'. A classic example of our weirdness and humour that only my sister and I find funny.
We have so many private and inside jokes and things that will make us glare at each other and then crack up laughing about. It's a pretty special thing.
5) She's my #1 buddy for Netflix and Chill
Nothing makes us happier than staying in on a Saturday night with a bottle of prosecco, a pizza from the local and some films on the small screen to watch. Saying that, we do also enjoy getting dolled up and heading out for drinks and dancing, but we are definitely humbugs that like to stay in our comfort zones.
That's 5 reasons why my sister is my best friend. She's fab! I'd love to hear your thoughts on what it's like to have a sister!
Disclaimer: This post contains PR samples. All words and photographs are my own.
You girls know what it's like when you fall in love. You feel happy, excited and completely infatuated with that one person who you wake up thinking about and dream about when sleeping. Well, that's exactly how I feel about this gorgeous scent from Ghost.
When Ghost sent over their Sweetheart Forever fragrance, I had very, very high hopes. Despite feeling so excited, I realised that I had never actually tried any fragrances from Ghost before and there's quite a few of them to choose from!
When choosing perfumes, I tend to go for ones that are all pretty similar. I like sweet, floral and fruity scents and it's pretty much impossible to beat my firm favourites. I always tell people not to buy me perfume as Christmas or birthday gifts, as it's a dangerous move. One wrong added note in a perfume could mean I won't like the overall fragrance and it goes to waste. Therefore, I usually just stick to what I know.
However, I'm all about trying out new things and making changes!
The clue to how this perfume smells is all in the name. Sweetheart Forever is a floral fragrance; bursting with heart notes of delicate rose and white blooms. There's also some fruity additions in there; with zesty orange and lychee top notes. Finally to finish, this fragrance boasts base notes of vanilla and wood.
I was very excited to give this a try and am pleased to report back that it lingers on the skin all day long. I have been complimented on it a number of times; including on a recent date, so that's always a plus that a guy has picked up on it too!
Sweetheart forever is available from Boots. A 30ml bottle is priced at £25.00 and 50ml is £34.00. Totally worth it in my opinion, sweetheart.
Disclaimer: PR sample. All words and photographs are my own.
Go Girl, a young driver car insurance provider have made a really cool interactive festival map, so you can check out what festivals are on around the UK. Depending on how far you are willing to travel to attend a festival, there's definitely an overwhelming amount to choose from and always something for everyone. I would probably catch a lift with my younger sister to avoid train delays and have space to pack all of our festival essentials.
I am pretty determined to visit at least one festival from the remainder left, so if you don't know which festivals are yet to come, then here we are!
Creamfields Festival - 24-27 August
Based between Liverpool and Manchester in a town called Cheshire, Creamfields is a large dance festival. This is one that has already started, but runs across this bank holiday weekend. Tickets are still available to buy across the weekend and boasts performance acts such as Danny Howard, The Chainsmokers, Sigma and my favourite DJ, Annie Mac.
Reading Festival - 25-27 August
The infamous Reading Festival is one of the UK's biggest returning festivals. It started yesterday and runs across the weekend. There's a staggering total of 9 stages, but the main stage is what attracts most people. This year, the performances include the likes of Bastille, Eminem (omg), Muse and Liam Gallagher. Pretty amazing if you ask me.
Leeds Festival - 26-28 August
The sister festival to Reading Festival is also returning, but kicks off today, right through till Bank Holiday Monday. The exact same acts are performing but are running on the consecutive days to Reading. So if you miss Eminem at Reading, rapping his bars about his mom's spaghetti, then there's always a chance to catch him again at Leeds Festival.
South West Four Festival - 26-28 August
The annual SW4 Festival madness is beginning today and runs across the weekend. Based in Clapham Common, London, this a fantastic festival for locals and residents across London to attend. It does help if you're a fan of dance music, mind. This year, you can expect appearances from Tinie Tempah (who is an absolute babe in person, I'll have you know), Duke Dumont and Deadmau5.
Electric Fields Festival - 1-2 September
A great one for you wee Scottish folk, is Electric Fields Festival. Based inbetween Glasgow and Edinburgh, in the deep forests of Dumfries and Galloway; Electric Fields Festival has a huge 2 day line up for everyone. Dizzee Rascal is the main headliner for this year, so make sure you fix up and look sharp!
Sundown Festival - 1-3 September
Based just outside of London in Norwich, Sundown Festival is the one that I would absolutely love to attend either this year or next year. It's a mixed festival and the line up is looking very strong. The main stage is hosting the amazing (and very hot), Craig David; alongside Wiley, Rag'n'Bone Man and AJ Tracey. Get me there now!! Or well, next week!
Festival No. 6 - 7-10 September
The final festival that I could find for this summer is Festival No. 6. Although based in Wales, this music and arts festival has a very varied line up for all different music genres. Running across FOUR whole days, the line up includes Rag'n'Bone Man, Kate Tempest, and Bloc Party. A little far for me, but definitely worth it if you're from the valleys!
There we have it! My handy guide for the UK festivals that are yet to happen! Will you be grabbing any last minute tickets for any of the above?
Disclaimer: In collaboration with GoGirl Car Insurance. All words are my own. Images are stock images.
Guest Post
The first rule of fashion is pretty simple and straight forward - there are no rules.
Style should be all about individuality and personal expression. It's cool to share your favourite looks with the world as everyone dresses in a way that they want to be portrayed. So having said that, how can you ensure that you are not only looking great, but that you are feeling great too?
When it comes to putting together the perfect outfit, there are a number of factors that you need to take into consideration. As well as including clothing and accessories that reflect your individual look and personality; it is important to stay creative. Consider your wardrobe and take all of the available options into account. You never know; you might just discover the perfect pairing completely by accident!
However, whilst bearing this in mind, it is also important to remember that the way in which you outwardly present yourself, can speak volumes to the people you meet, pass and interact with throughout the day.
Tip 1: Individuality
To that end, it is important to not only express your individuality, but to also ensure that your dress is appropiate for the occasion at hand. Seasonal attire and dressing according to the day's weather forecast are understandably important. However, it is also vital to ensure that the outfit you have chosen is also well suited to the day's plans and activities.
Professional situations may require a more conserved, toned-down approach. On the other hand, casual meet-ups allow you the freedom to choose your outfit without applying any boundaries. Despite this, as every true fashionista will doubtlessly know; there is much more to pulling off a great outfit than simply choosing the right clothes. Your accessories have the ability to transform a dull outfit into a showstopper; and vice versa. From shoes and bags, to jewellery and hair accessories; sometimes it is the smallest of additions that can add just the right amount of sparkle to your look.
However, this can also work the other way - meaning that you may be left struggling to pick out the perfect accompaniment to your outfit. Luckily, there are plenty of existing styles and trends that you can research and take inspiration from. This will provide the perfect way to add your own unique twist to a classic look.
Knowing the importance of accessories is one thing, but how can you make sure that the accessory you have chosen is right for the occasion?
The most important tip is to go with your initial gut feeling. If you aren't sure if a particular piece works, it is always best practice to trust your instincts. After all, no one knows your own fashion sense better than you. Therefore, it's always worth paying attention to the little voice in the back of your head. If you still aren't sure, why not ask someone you trust for a second opinion? Getting honest feedback from else can be a truly invaluable way to double check if your outfit is on point.
Similarly as mentioned earlier, it is also important to make sure that every aspect of your outfit suits the occasion. When it comes to accessories, luxury jewellery is a great option for parties and standing out from the crowd. Whereas a subtle, yet still noticeable piece of designer jewellery is a great choice for professional situations; like meetings and job interviews. If you are on the lookout for the all important piece of statement jewellery, London based designer Tateossian make some truly stunning pieces for both men and women.
No matter what the occasion, the best thing is to always ensure that your look stays true to your personality and individual style. After all, following the trend is one thing, but showcasing your own style is always sure to guarantee success.
Tip 3: Dress for the occasion
Similarly as mentioned earlier, it is also important to make sure that every aspect of your outfit suits the occasion. When it comes to accessories, luxury jewellery is a great option for parties and standing out from the crowd. Whereas a subtle, yet still noticeable piece of designer jewellery is a great choice for professional situations; like meetings and job interviews. If you are on the lookout for the all important piece of statement jewellery, London based designer Tateossian make some truly stunning pieces for both men and women.
No matter what the occasion, the best thing is to always ensure that your look stays true to your personality and individual style. After all, following the trend is one thing, but showcasing your own style is always sure to guarantee success.
Disclaimer: Guest Post.
I absolutely love working with lingerie brands that cater for all shapes and sizes. Nothing annoys me more than walking into a lingerie shop and either not being able to find my bra size, or my actual bra size not fitting me properly. Can anyone else relate?!
Bouji Lingerie is a newly launched online boutique that offers sexy but classy lingerie for all you ladies. From actual lingerie, nightwear, swimwear, dress up costumes and sexy accessories; there's guaranteed to be something for everyone. In fact, there's a giveaway included within this post AND an exclusive 20% off discount code!
It's important to remember ladies that you don't need to be in a happy relationship to feel sexy and fabulous. I have been single for a while now, but nothing makes me happier than dressing up for myself. Even though I go to sleep on my own, why not go to bed in style and feel sexy whilst doing so?
I don't need a man to look at me and verify whether my body is doing it for him or not. I don't need to be told that my curves look amazing. I don't need to feel sexy just because a man thinks I do. Why? I'm sexy without the verification from another person and it doesn't matter what other people think. As long as you love yourself, why does it matter if you're not getting a text back? It doesn't.
Bouji Lingerie sent me over an item of my choice and I couldn't wait to try it on and lounge around in style. I chose the black teddy lace up body suit from a brand called Mapale. Priced at £31, the front of the bodysuit is made from lace and then goes into a chiffon material on the stomach. With a tie up fastening around the neck, this body suit is completely backless and then uses a leather-look material to create a corset style detail on the lower back. It finishes with a thong style fitting and lace panels sitting over the tops of the bum.
Utterly sexy in my opinion.
Bouji are always offering amazing deals and discounts and also offer free delivery on all of their products. They are actually offering all of my readers an EXCLUSIVE 20% off until 30/09/217 with code ASHD17.
I'm so excited about this brand and will definitely be purchasing items from them in the future. It's fantastic that they also offer all kinds of accessories and necessities for those sensual times with your partner. Forget 50 shades of grey... spice up YOUR sex life with massage oils, lubricants or even something a little more... daring.
Bouji Lingerie have kindly put together a sensual bundle of items to give away to one reader of my blog. The bundle is made up of: Tingle Balm, Kama Sutra Kit, Knickers & Silky Handcuffs. Hot right?
To enter the giveaway, enter the form below! You have until 5th September!
TERMS & CONDITIONS: All entries MUST follow Bouji Lingerie on Instagram (bouji_lingerie) and Twitter (bouji_lingerie). The prize is for a bundle of the following: Tingle Balm, Kama Sutra Kit, x1 Knickers and Silky Handcuffs. No prize or cash alternative. The giveaway will end on 05/09/2017 and the winner will be revealed on my Instagram and Twitter. The bundle will be sent directly from Bouji Lingerie. All entries must be aged 18+. Open to UK citizens only.
Disclaimer: In collaboration with Bouji Lingerie. All photographs and words are my own.
Last weekend, we had a full family day out in London which was really lovely. It started off with the sun shining and no rain made an appearance during the whole day. An utter shocker at the moment, because it seems to be raining non-stop!
I will always remain honest on my blog, as I would hate to recommend something if it hasn't lived up to my expectations. I wouldn't want a consumer to spend their hard earned money on something that isn't great.
We was booked in to review a premium style fish and chips restaurant called Sutton and Sons. They have three different locations to choose from; Islington, Stoke Newington and Hackney Central. However, we chose the Islington branch as we know the area very well due to living there a number of years ago.
Being a huge breakfast person, I made the conscious decision to skip breakfast for lunch booked at 1pm at Sutton and Sons, so you can imagine how hungry I was!
Upon arrival, I am sad to say that the restaurant had no idea that I was there for a review and instead of sorting this out immediately to save embarrassment for the both of us; they didn't seem too bothered about the miscommunicated booking.
I tried to explain to the waitress that I was there as a blogger and had booked this restaurant on X date with X person, but I was made to feel very silly because I was laughed at by the waitress. The waitress became very flustered and after waiting around; she then finally got in touch with her manager. She then informed us that the restaurant could only offer us complimentary drinks. It was then changed to drinks and starters - again not what was agreed in the first place.
After 15-20 minutes of sitting down and trying to converse with the woman, I was about to give up trying to explain the situation, when she settled and agreed to what was agreed with beforehand. Finally!
We had completely lost our appetite and excitement by the time we was finally somewhat allowed to look at the menu.
Putting that very embarrassing and awkward situation aside, I was tempted to try the crab on toast (£5.95), but ended up ordering the whitebait starter (£4.50). With an added squeeze of the lemon slice, these were actually really nice and the portion size was very generous. The batter surrounding the fish was perfect and not too oily.
My mum went for the smoked haddock and cod fish cake (£4.95). These came on its own with a slice of lemon to garnish. She said it was very nice to eat and fried perfectly. She also commented that she could tell the fish tasted very fresh.
I wasn't too sure what to order for main. The menu has quite a varied amount of different dishes you can order, so I was spoilt for choice. I was torn between the chicken and mushroom pie and cod goujons. I ended up choosing cod goujons and imagined these to be like the texture and look of chicken goujons.
Their version of cod goujons (£8.50) are just mini style battered cods. Somewhat deceiving, but the portion size was extremely generous. Sadly, I hardly ate the fish as the batter was really greasy and quite sickly tasting. It seemed that the ration of batter to fish was very outweighed, so these really let me down. However, the chips were very nice and were enjoyed a lot with a pot of mayonnaise.
My mum ordered cod and chips (£10.50), which looked a lot more appealing than my own dish. She thoroughly enjoyed her meal and had no negative comments about the fish. It seemed her batter was a lot more cooked and less greasy than my own.
It would have been nice to explore the dessert menu as I noticed they offer battered chocolate bars and Mrs Sutton's home made cakes. However, we didn't and was pretty full up anyway.
Overall, my experience at Sutton and Sons was a bit of a mismatch. I think if the service had been better and I wasn't laughed at, then I'd say the food could have saved it - considering the food overall was nice. Maybe the other two branches are a bit better with their service. However, I won't be returning to this branch in particular.
Disclaimer: A complimentary meal was offered in return for an honest review on my blog. All words and photographs are my own.
It was definitely time for me to upgrade my makeup brush collection. With a few face brushes that have lasted me for 5-6 years and only a few new-ish ones from XIP Professional; my collection was starting to look a little sorry for itself. In the bin went the really old brushes and out came these aesthetically pleasing beauties.
Nanshy is a makeup brush brand that launched a few years ago. All of Nanshy's brushes are cruelty free and vegan, so perfect for anyone who looks out for these kinds of products. I personally wouldn't want to use any kind of animal fur on my face (including mink lashes), so using cruelty free and vegan brushes is a must for me.
I was sent over the 5-piece Gobsmack Glamorous brush set. The set costs £34.95 and it comes in black or in this gorgeous style; Pearlescent White. The 5 brushes are all face brushes which is what I needed to replace, so I was very excited to give them a try!
Firstly, I adore the packaging and the way these brushes are designed. I only had a few white brushes in my collection beforehand, so these now look super pretty in their brush pot. I was pleasantly surprised to find that these brushes are incredibly soft, with anti-bacterial cruelty-free bristles. Being that of a high quality means that these brushes can be used with liquid, mineral and cream makeup products with no mess or problems.
So, what did I think of these brushes?
FO1: Flawless Foundation Brush
I thought I'd start with the brush that is not only my favourite, but the one I highly recommend out of them all. This a flat top brush that distributes and blends your foundation perfectly. I find I need very little amount of time buffing product into the skin; meaning minimal effort when it comes to creating that perfect base.
A01: Blush & Bronze Brush
Another brush I have been enjoying using is this one. It's a fluffy brush with a slightly angled cut; perfect for creating the illusion of cheekbones with bronzer or contour powder.
FA01: Angled Airbrush
This is the one brush I haven't used as much as the others, but one that works as a great backup for a foundation brush. It's a flat top brush with an angled cut, which would work amazingly well for cream products. However, I only contour with powder products, so I haven't been able to use it for that purpose.
P01 Conceal Perfector Brush
I have been using this brush just before my foundation when colour correcting with some Smashbox cream correctors. I have tried using it for concealer, but find the brush is a little too big for an accurate and blended application. It's definitely one of those brushes that can have a purpose.
R01: Buffed Base Brush
This brush reminds me a lot of the buffing brush from Real Techniques. These types of brushes were my favourite for foundation applications, but then I discovered stippling brushes and of course; flat top kabuki's. However, when my foundation brushes are in serious need of a wash, I always reach for a buffing brush to use in the meantime.
This one works really well at buffing foundation into the skin. I have also used it a few times to apply liquid highlighter to the tops of my cheekbones and it works really well for that too.
For £34.95, I think this is an excellent brush set that every girl needs - although it does come with a popular demand so is currently sold out, but is available in black. Each of these brushes can also be purchased separately for £9.95 each if there's one or two you would like in particular.
It's also worth mentioning that I have washed these brushes a handful of times now and they look as good as new. No dye runs through the water and no brush hairs come away - something that I find often happens with cheaper brush brands.
There's many I'm an avid fan of Nanshy and can't wait to try some more of their brushes. There's just SO many more to choose from!
Disclaimer: PR sample. All words and photographs are my own.
It's no where near Elsie's birthday yet (5th November, FYI), but I thought all you dog owners out there might like to hear about this. It certainly got Elsie's tail wagging...
Lily's Kitchen is a pet brand we have worked closely with before and support fully. Their food ranges for cats and dogs are made using naturally nutritious ingredients. The range of recipes use grain-free foods and there's even meat-free alternatives. With no unnecessary additives, flavours and rendered meats; you can guarantee your pet will be eating something even you would consider eating. Well, maybe not... but you get my drift...
Our cat Albert is a big Lily's Kitchen fan and loved trying out their organic cat food range. I get so many emails from different pet brands wanting to send things for Elsie to try, but I am very fussy with what I say yes to. So, when the team at Lily's Kitchen sent this over, of course I said yes and Elsie licked her lips when it was time to shoot for the brand!
Elsie will 2 later this year, so we have only celebrated one birthday with her so far. However, she is my fur child (incase I haven't made it already very obvious over the past year and a half), so of course I spoilt her rotten. It isn't just children that deserve to celebrate their birthday!
Lily's Kitchen have introduced a brand new product called the 'Lily's Kitchen Birthday Surprise' gift box. Inside is their 'party meal'; made up of different fresh cuts of steak, potatoes, broccoli and herbs. There's also a bag of organic cheese and apple training treats; hidden away for when your pooch rips open their gift box.
There's even a miniature birthday card, which is just the sweetest thing. With room to write your pooch's name, you can celebrate their birthday with them in true traditional style.
(You have no idea how much patience she had sitting here for photographs! - the puppy eyes came out!)
Many pet owners are now celebrating birthdays with their dogs, but it's important to not let them indulge on things like chocolate and birthday cake. Instead, there is now a friendly alternative with an utterly special twist. It's a thumbs up and paw up from us two!
The new Birthday Surprise gift box is now available on the website for £9.95 and is also now sold on Amazon for £13.
Disclaimer: In collaboration with Lily's Kitchen. All words and photographs are my own.
Last month, I decided to bite the bullet and get a shiny new iPhone 7 plus. I decided I really needed to up my game and get a new contract that serves me well. Being a person who's constantly active on social media, having 3GB of data with my previous contract wasn't enough.
A month in and I am absolutely head over heels with my new phone. I went for the 128gb, rose gold and it's honestly been amazing so far. I don't have to delete photos and apps to create more storage anymore and I have been using the portrait camera mode way too much. It's the best feature with this particular model, I have to say!
I have never managed to smash an iPhone from my own fault before, but I wanted to play it extra safe this time and get some cases that will protect my phone as much as possible. However, I didn't want a boring flip screen case that would look really masculine and quite boring to the eye.
A month in and I am absolutely head over heels with my new phone. I went for the 128gb, rose gold and it's honestly been amazing so far. I don't have to delete photos and apps to create more storage anymore and I have been using the portrait camera mode way too much. It's the best feature with this particular model, I have to say!
I have never managed to smash an iPhone from my own fault before, but I wanted to play it extra safe this time and get some cases that will protect my phone as much as possible. However, I didn't want a boring flip screen case that would look really masculine and quite boring to the eye.
Speck is a technology brand that have cases for all types of Apple products; including MacBooks. They also have phone cases for Samsung Galaxy phones for those of you who aren't team iPhone. The cases are reasonably priced and are some of the best quality phone cases I have ever used.
Speck sent over a bunch of different style cases for me to try, but this Presido Clear Neon Edition case is my favourite. Retailing at just under £24.95, it's the case I am currently using and it's done very well at protecting my phone. Saying that, I am still yet to drop it (touch wood!), but I have high hopes that the durable material of this case will protect the phone from smashing.
Another brand I was recently introduced to is that of MMORE. Their iPhone cases are truly unique and unlike any other I have come across. Their Organika Cases are made from handpicked and natural materials; which consequentially still smell like nature too - with no allergies passed on!
Each case is priced at £33.97 (free shipping available too); made using a durable material that is long-lasting, protects from damage and gives you a better grip too. You can choose from Alpine Hay, Coffee and Roses. However, I went for Jasmine and have really enjoyed using. It's a strange concept, but a really good one!
Gear4 is another technology brand that I had actually heard of before. When I was offered the Gear4 Oxford iPhone case, it really sounded like something I would benefit from. It's made for those people who are constantly on the go and always out and about using their phone. Sound like a blogger to you?
The case is a flip one and has plastic brackets on the right hand side, which is where you secure your phone into. On the left side, there's a couple of slots for cards - really handy for me too as I hate carrying a purse around! It retails for £34.99 which may be a little more than I would usually spend on a case. However, this is the one out of the three that is guaranteed to keep your phone as protected as possible.
Which one would you go for?
Disclaimer: This post contains PR samples. All words and photographs are my own.
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