The Best Advent Calendar's of 2016:


Somehow December is less than two days away... I don't really know how it's happened. I know I keep saying it but 2016 has truly been the quickest year of my life. It has absolutely flown by and I honestly can't get my head around it.

With the countdown to Christmas officially starting very, very shortly I thought I'd share a few of my favourite advent calendar's with you gals. The days when Christmas advent calendars were, at best, 25 small pieces of Cadbury’s chocolate hidden behind a sweet reindeer print are a long way off. Times have changed and you can now count down the days till Christmas with calendars filled with everything from candles, to gin, jewellery and an absolutely endless array of beauty options.

It’s a pretty fun way to gift a loved one 25 presents ahead of Christmas day and I thought I’d share a few of my favourites with you!

Clockwise from top left: Christmas Beauty Advent, £42, L’Occitane; Advent Calendar, £280, Jo Malone; World of Legendary Parties Calendar, £150, Charlotte Tilbury; The Beauty Calendar, £40, Asos ; 12 Days of Christmas, £52.95, Lush; That Boutique-y Whisky Company’s Calendar, Drinks by the Dram; Holiday Countdown Calendar, £205, Estee Lauder; The Gin Advent Calendar, Drinks by the Dram; Advent Calendar, £250, Diptyque 
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Trending: Pink

Knit, Zara; The Kirkgate Mini Skirt, Winter Archive by Alexa

I’ve always loved pink and have a huge soft spot for the super girly shade. The cutesy colour was redefined and ready for this autumn thanks to Preen, whose AW16 collection completely embraced the pretty pastel shade giving it a tougher, modern edge.

Soft shades of pink were also spotted on the autumn/winter catwalks at Holly Fulton and Alexander McQueen whilst richer, darker raspberry shades were seen at Roksanda. The shade has, of course, transferred onto the high street with our favourite shops releasing everything from coats to cardigans and tees to trainers in the colour of the season.

Even girls who were previously ‘allergic’ to the shade couldn’t possibly resist the candy coloured coat or bubblegum blouse? The rich ruffled velvet top I picked up from Asos has been my go-to all season!

It’s not just my wardrobe that’s been taken over by the colour of the moment, I’ve been majorly lusting after blush toned home wear too (I mean how dreamy is this throw!?) I’m so into dusky, pastel pink shades at the moment as the covetable chalky hues just really pop – whether that’s against a grey and white themed room or a simple Breton and jeans and I can’t get enough!

There’s a shade for everyone’s style and sensibility – shop a few of my favourite new-in styles from three of the best places below…
Clockwise from top left: Velvet Ankle Boots, Asos; Satin Twill Suit, Topshop; Asymmetric Playsuit, Asos; Puffer Jacket, Light Before Dark; Cold Shoulder Shirt, Miss Selfridge; Glenda Buckle Shoes, Topshop; Casual Faux Fur Coat, Topshop; Slouchy Ribbed Socks, Urban Outfitters; Velvet Mini Dress, Topshop; Pink Wink Wallet, Urban Outfitters; Smart Wrap Coat, House of Sunny; Slip Dress, Urban Renewal 




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The Ultimate Liquid Lipstick for Under £9:


Okay so I'm a little late to the party with this little lipstick discovery, but I'm so glad I'm final on board with it. Bold in colour and matte in finish Bourjois Rouge Allure Velvet Lipsticks are rich, vibrant and so long-lasting.

Liquid lipsticks are absolutely not new (even I knew that..) but out of each, and every single liquid lip product that I've ever encountered, swatched or used Bourjois' blows them out the water (can you tell I'm watching The Good Wife as I write this!?).

Part of a line-up of eight matte finish options that deliver a rich opaque colour in one quick application, I've given five of the eight a full trial. Whilst I'm usually a huge fan of nude, peachy shades (like Honey Mood) the richer berry hues (such as Grand Cru) at the darker end of the spectrum have quickly become firm favourites of mine.

If you're a bit of an applicator fiend, like me then the precision point tip will make you happy: slightly pointed, it let's you apply with absolute ease.

Perfect for the party season these 'velvet lipsticks' give lips an intense matte colour that lasts all night long: has there ever been a more appropriate lipstick for New Year's Eve than Happy Nude Year!?

I've tried and tested five shades and one of the things I love most about them as a product, is how easy they are to layer, enabling you to build a richness. Enriched with evanescent oils Bourjois Velvet Lipstick swipes onto your lips with absolute ease, without drying out: letting you apply as many coats as you like without having to worry about a flaky mess. These lip stains really don't budge, even after a full day of drinks, dinner and a few kisses.

It may have taken three cotton pads to remove fully, but I'm absolutely not complaining - I rarely have time to reapply or touch up throughout the day so something long-lasting as this, in so many beautiful shades is a real winner for me.
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Winter '16 Zara Haul + Giveaway:


As an early little Christmas treat I'm giving away a lovely little red bag, watch my video below to see how you can win!


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The Best 2016 Black Friday Deals:


I'd provisionally planned to save this little round up of Black Friday discount codes and offers until it was actually Black Friday... However, the high street have fully embraced the sales this year starting them a little earlier than expected with some offers running all week long!

More and more offers will of course be announced as we get closer to Cyber Monday (Monday 27th November in case you'd forgotten!), so I'll keep updating this little post to ensure you've got them all.

I've also alphabetised my list, like last year's, for your ultimate shopping ease - you're welcome :)

ASOS
Starting with a little Black Friday 'warm-up week' your pals at ASOS are offering daily discounts with up to 50% off various pieces, with the selection changing daily it's worth keeping a beady eye on your saved items. Shop here.

BODEN
Boden are offering 30% off ALL full-priced pieces on their dreamy little site all week long (ending on Monday 27th!). With free delivery and the week long offer you've got plenty of time to think over whether you need that extra pair of cashmere socks... you do!! Shop here, using code 'F6P8' when you checkout.

BOOHOO

Much to my boyfriend's excitement Boohoo are currently offering a HUGE 40% off all menswear. I repeat ALL menswear. There's currently no big discount for us gals, but that just means that a generous one's coming.

BOOTS
With an entire tab dedicated to their 'Black Friday Event' offer's, Boots is your one-stop-shop for Christmas gifts. Featuring everything from fragrance to electronics there's something for everyone on your shopping list. I'm SO tempted by the incredible £60 off the Real Techniques Mega Brush Set.

CLARKS
Pick up a pair of shoes or slippers for a loved one with 20% off all shoes, slippers and handbags, when you use the code 'BNOW.' Shop here.

COAST
Party-wear shopping just got a little bit easier thanks to 40% off all new season staples. I've added the Rita Dress and Meslita Skirt to my basket whilst typing this post.

DOROTHY PERKINS
Trusty DP's have a between 20 and 30% off their new season edit. With free delivery on all orders over £50, it's definitely time to add these velvet Bardot top and these Manolo Blahnik Carrie inspired courts to your basket.

HOUSE OF FRASER
With 30% off all party-wear at the moment, House of Fraser have some of the best offers on designer bags: this cute Love Moschino bag's an absolute steal at under £100.

JOHN LEWIS
Currently price matching, all it's competitors, this high street favourite will have some more dreamy offers come Black Friday. For now, shop Urban Decay with an extra 10% off - I may have re-purchased my favourite Naked Basics Eye Shaddow Palette whilst I typed this... oops!

JOULES
With up to 50% off everything from rain coats to wellington's and Bretons, Joules' Black Friday sale has the lot.

LA REDOUTE
Offering 40% off absolutely everything, there's never been a better time to get that new bedding you've been after. Use the code 'BLACKFRIDAY' to shop homewear and fashion with the discount.

LAURA ASHLEY
Continue your homewear shop with 30% off everything from Christmas decorations to curtains. Shop here.

MARKS & SPENCER
Coming soon...

NEW LOOK
Not only are New Look offering up to 50% off everything all week long, they're also giving away a £100 gift card everyday, so definitely enter that whilst you shop.

TOPSHOP
There's no official discount code or section, as yet, but there is a HUGE 70% off Topshop's sale to keep you busy in the meantime. I'm personally loving these pretty pink slingbacks, smudge shorts and green bomber jacket.

Enjoy!
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13 Things to Add to Your Christmas List:


To say it’s taken me days to write this little post wouldn’t be an understatement. Writing about and searching for gifts I’ve seen or thought about throughout the year has been beyond distracting, with each search taking me to a whole other place of procrastination. I’ve gone from Charlotte Tilbury to SNL and back, and then onto Seth and Jimmy (my whole circle of distraction is totally monopolised by SNL alumni). 

But, I’ve finally managed to keep my mind focussed enough to compile a little edit of a few bits and bobs that you can accidentally on purpose leave on your boyfriend’s laptop or accidentally email, en mass, to your mum, aunt, sister and nan. I’m totally not saying you need them all, they’re just a couple of ideas for gifts that I totally wouldn’t mind unwrapping come December 25th.

1, Gucci
Okay, so I’m starting big. Rather overtly, optimistically big – but, why the hell not. Gucci. What I would do for something Gucci. It’s sadly something that’s totally beyond a dream for me, as my family and boyfriend have, repeatedly, lol’d right in my face about this. It’s not even a 'if you’re lucky lol'. It’s a flat out never, ever happening lol. If you’re curious, I’ve wanted the Soho Disco in red for over a year – I’ve wanted it for so long now that it’s become so mainstream that every other blogger has one sob. I think I’d opt for a classic black style now.


2, Anything monogrammed
Personalised pieces are a total win. Nothing looks cute, chic and well thought through quite like something with your loved ones initial on it. I went through a phase a few years ago where I bought each of my pals a beautiful monogrammed mug from Anthropologie (this one if you wanna copy) as part of their birthday gift’s and it always went down so, so well. Anthropologie are my absolute go-to for sweet, personalised pieces. Noone does monogramming quite like ‘em: cute velvet pouch – they’ve got it, marble monogram trinket dish – yepp, sweet mini necklace – voila!

3, Laura Mercier's Crème Brulee Honey Bath
This is actual heaven. One of my all-time favourite products, ever! Laura Mercier’s Honey Bath feels as luxuriously dreamy as it smells. 

4, Slippers
No Christmas Day is complete without unwrapping a trusty pair of slippers to see you through till next year. Trusty M&S (this pom pom pair), Joules (these are too cute!) and Boden (this velvet pair!) are my three favourite places for these: super cute and cosy you can’t go wrong.

5, Watch Me
I’ve been a big fan of Henry London since their launch - my late Pappy was called Henry and their classic, sleek styles really resonated with me as I think he’d have so loved one from their men’s collection. With thirteen collections each named after London’s iconic boroughs and colourways that reference the corresponding tube lines there’s a style to suit all. I live in my Westminster watch.

6, Cashmere
The ultimate gift, nothing says 'I love you’ quite like a cashmere knit. A cashmere onesie is the ultimate Christmas Day gift goal, but I’d never, ever say no to a cosy knit/scarf/hat/pair of socks… honestly I’d take anything cashmere. 

7, Monica Vinader 
With something for each budget and taste Monica Vinder is your one-stop-shop for jewels this year. Whether you’ve always wanted one of her staple Fiji Friendship Bracelts (this Mink style is the sweetest!) or simply some contemporary diamonds… I mean who doesn’t want diamonds for Christmas - there’s an accessory for all.



8, Denim
It’s a tough call, but if you manage to get the right style and size you’re on to an absolute winner. This pair of Levi’s mid-wash raw hem Wedgie Jeans would make my absolute month and give me the motivation to not have another Yorkshire Pud with my Christmas dinner.

9, Charlotte Tilbury
I can’t think of a single friend of mine who wouldn’t be absolutely overjoyed to find a little purple and gold packet from darling Charlotte Tilbury under their tree. I’ve had a different one of her incredible Matte Revolution Lipstick’s on my list for the last two years and will be adding the impossible to find in-stock Kim K.W to mine this winter.



10, Sweet Stationery 
Cute calendars, year planners and 'sentence a day' books that are instagram ready are a failsafe gift. Kikki K and Oliver Bonas do the sweetest of styles - I mean this set of notebooks are just too cute!

11, Ultimate Electric Tooth Brush
So, it’s not a Gucci bag but in terms of longterm practicality it totally wins. I was lucky enough to get my hands on a Phillips Sonicare Diamond Clean Toothbrush a couple of months back and it’s an absolute game changer. Sleek and stylish it's available in four different colour ways and truly does what it says on the tin: brightening and whitening teeth through its 5-brushing modes. You’ll honestly notice a major difference after the first clean.

12, Trinkets
If you like to have something a little different from the mainstream offerings, Trouva is the place for you. With 150+ independent boutiques you can shop the most unique prints, pillows and plant pots! I’m currently lusting after: this throw, this marble tray and this palm print.

13, Super Cosy Socks
I have a real soft spot for cosy socks. I blame the Grandma in me, but I can’t be the only one who gets a little too excited when I open a truly great pair of socks. One year I got the most incredible pair of cream cashmere socks and squealed with delight. Hush do the dreamiest chunkiest pairs, but for fluffy, fun snuggly stocking fillers Primark’s got your back.

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Lips vs Eyes:



Inspired by the impending party season and curated by John Lewis, the November EDIT is ALL about lips and eyes. 

Nothing adds drama, intensity and glamour quite like a bold lip, or sultry smokey eye and whilst we’re often told to keep our makeup simple, concentrating on either one or the other, there’s something quite bold, brazen and brave about pulling off a bright lip and dramatic eye together. More is sometimes, more and quite simply, the bolder the berry hues the better! 


Try-it-all-out by teaming the berry tones of Mac’s Oh Lady (above) with the rich golden intensity of, Charlotte Tilbury’s dreamy Dolce Vita palette (below) for a warm, glowy look that’ll instantly lift the most casual of party-wear looks. 

An absolute favourite of mine, Charlotte Tilburys quad palettes include four step-by-step colour-coded shades, enabling you to build up intensity for a mesmerising look that can take you from desk-to-disco with the absolute easiest of ease. Nothing compliments a classic LBD quite like the 'Dolce Vita'  golden champagne, umber and bronze shades. 


Add an intensity to your sequin dress with a deeply hued, bold lip - the absolute autumnal shade. Innovation meets pure makeup artistry with Tom Ford's richly pigmented 'Make Me' Lip Contour Duo: the ultimate dual product. For the fullest, lips simply use the super sleek, slim pencil (jn a slightly lighter shade) to help accentuate, enhance and define your lips: before applying the darker, contrasting shade for full-coverage - creating the covetable ombré effect and adding a whole extra dimension to your beauty look. 


The right mascara has the ability to completely transform your look: elevating you from day-to-night with the application of an extra coat simply by lifting, curling and volumizing. I've tried and tested A LOT of mascaras over the years (see my full edit here) and the 'About Lash Night' set by Marc Jacobs contains three products that'll see you through the entire party-season without dropping, smudging, running or flaking off. Firslty, apply the Ultra Glistening Top Coat in Lamé Noir before layering with luscious lashings of O!Mega Lash Volumising Mascara in Blacquer for statement super long lashes. Lining and defining with Marc's Highliner Gel Crayon for maximum impact - team with a pair of oversized gold earrings for added glamour.




Shop the full party-season beauty edit here...



This post was sponsored by John Lewis
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35 Leopard Print Pieces To Shop Now:


Autumn isn't quite complete without a little leopard print.

A timeless staple, I don't think a wardrobe is complete without a classic Leopard Print Coat (see one of mine in my Coat Collection video here). Nothing adds an effortlessly edge to an outfit quite like a little leopard print: it's a spot that's been spotted on everything from belts to bandanas, pleated skirt to pointed pumps and a trend that just gets fiercer season after season.

Its everyone's favourite print and one of the most wearable, fun trends about. Whether you're after 'the dress,' 'the boot' or 'the bag' in one or every variation of the print there's something for literally everyone.

As much as we rely upon classic black staples - especially within a winter wardrobe, opting for a bolder option, such as a leopard print, style really pays off. Providing an effortless update to even the most love-worn look. A simple pair of leopard print boots adds an edge to classic light-wash jeans and a grey knit whilst a leopard neckerchief toughens up a white shirt and skinny jeans - see my 3 favourite ways to style the trend here.

The key to tapping into the trend is by keeping the style off-duty, it's a tried-and-tested winter combination that never, ever fails. A classic leopard coat worn with a top-to-toe black outfit is a sure way to make an impact and one of the most accessible way to look fashion forward right now: because ultimately what's the point in getting dressed if it doesn't involve a little leopard print.

Shop the 35 best leopard print pieces from the high-street's hottest stores now:

TOPSHOP
Clockwise from top left: Happy-Days Ankle Boots, £85; Belted Pony Skirt, £295; Leopard Coat, £85; Pony Hair Belt, £22; Nino Mules, £59

NEW LOOK
Clockwise from top left: Grey Leopard Coat, £49.99; Leopard Neckerchief, £3.99; Pleated Leopard Dress, £29.99; Stone Leopard Boots, £29.99; Leopard Cat Clutch, £15.99

MARKS & SPENCER

ASOS

BODEN
Clockwise from top left: Sally Leopard Coat, £180 £141.75; Marisa Dress, £89.50; Strappy Bow Pointed Pumps, £79.50 £63.50; Richmond Skirt, £69.50; Pony Saddle Bag, £109

LA REDOUTE

URBAN OUTFITTERS
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Winter Occasionwear Lookbook:


Winter occasion dressing is so difficult! I've got my first winter wedding coming up this Christmas and have put together a little video to give you (and me) some inspiration.
 
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My Coat Collection:


Because you can never have too many...

I love a good coat and thought I'd share the ones that have been keeping me cosy this Autumn/Winter with you...


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October Fashion Favourites:


Each month I’m going to be sharing my fave fashion pieces so you can see which bits from posts, hauls etc I’ve been absolutely loving and how I’ve been working them into my wardrobe as the seasons change.

Here’s what I’ve been loving this October...

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5 Goals for the rest of 2016:


I’m sort of still in denial that it’s November. It’s totally crazy how quickly this year’s flown by and I’m almost a little overwhelmed by how close 2017 is - I’ve already got a wedding and a girls holiday in the diary for next year, which I know will come around before I know it.

2016 has been one mad old year and to keep me motivated and inspired for the last little bit of it, I’ve 
set myself a few little goals to focus on before I get too overwhelmed by Christmas shopping and finding the right NYE dress.



1, Organise a spa day
I’ve not seen my Nanny, Grandma or Auntie enough this year and I really want to get a date in for us (along with my Mum and sister) to go on a little spa day before Christmas. I’m keeping my eyes peeled for good offers but please let me know if you spot any…

2, Increase my social following
I know this is the smallest, most insignificant thing in the grand scheme of life, (and pretty sad to admit) but hitting 2,000 followers on Instagram and 3,000 subscribers on YouTube would really make my month. I’m making such a conscious effort to be consistent on both and am slowly, but surely, seeing little results – so, please do come and say hi (on both ;D) if you haven’t already.

3, Disconnect more
Mainly due to the above, I’m always on my phone and am making a conscious effort to turn it off over the weekend and just enjoy spending time with boyfriend/friends and family instead of scrolling through insta for the 100th time. There's something quite liberating about letting your phone die and not making any effort to charge it over the weekend.

4, Make more ‘me’ time
I’m quite terrible at saying no to things and always try to do more, so setting time aside to just put a face mask on and paint my nails is a rare treat. I don’t want it to be, so I’ve started doing pilates a couple of nights a week and have re-started my calligraphy – if I can write my Christmas cards in a cute style I’ll be a happy gal.

5, Get back to the gym
Kind of continuing with the above, I had a bit of a mad 2015-2016 and really let my work/life priorities slip. I never managed to get to the gym as I’d get in from work so late and now I’ve started a new job, closer to home, I’m keen to get back into my fitness. I’ve set myself the goal of getting abs before I turn 26 and I’m dedicated to making it a reality. 

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Trending: Velvet


Incase you’ve somehow missed the memo, velvet is having a very huge moment. 

One of the biggest trends, and textures, from the autumn/winter catwalk season, Velvet has made a huge imprint on the high street with everything from scrunchies to sock boots available in the fabric of the moment. With plush, draped, ruffled, pleated and crushed options in every imaginable shade and cut there’s a style for absolutely anyone and everyone.

I picked up this fun top from an Asos sample sale,like all sample sale’s it was pretty mad and I didn’t realise until I’d got home and searched for it on the site that it’s actually from their Curve range. As I’ve previously mentioned on my YouTube channel, I never really judge garments on their size, and instead pick and purchase pieces rather how they look on and fit as there’s often such a disparity between stores sizing. I’m assuming that this top is actually an 18 which, on me, works as a slightly longer oversized top and love how through upsizing it accentuates the ruffles further. To play about with the proportions, I’ve been wearing it with the sleeves rolled up, skinny black jeans and my new patent boots. 

Shop my favourite 3 new-in velvet tops...
Red 90s cami, £28 Asos; Green ruffle blouse, £32, Glamorous; Bardot top, £35, Topshop 
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Trending: Gingham


Gingham is my ultimate go-to, effortlessly ending interest and texture to the most paired-down outfits.

Whilst I love the classic monochrome options as they’re just so easy to wear and work so well from week-to-weekend, colour pop pieces are really catching my attention. 

I picked up this embroidered style from Zara a month or so ago (watch this to see what other pieces made my autumnal edit) and have absolutely worn it to death. It’s fun fluted sleeves lend it a Little House on The Prairie vibe which I absolutely love. 

If all this colour is a little much for you, opt for a more Bardot-inspired gingham and add a red lip.

Shop my gingham shopping list below…
Clockwise from top left: Check top, £22.99, Zara; Smock dress, £19.99, Asos; Check shirt with extreme sleeves, £38, Asos; Checked ruffle shirt, £25.99, Pull & Bear; Blouse, £55, Style Mafia; Pleated cami dress, £40, Milk It
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Six pieces you need from Alexa's Winter Archive collection:

So, yesterday I purchased the Kirkgate Mini skirt from Alexa’s second M&S collection, her Winter Archive edit, which I had been so excited to get my hands on. I'd planned to shoot it so I could share it, and how I’ll be wearing it, alongside this post. 

However, when I got home with the lovely vinyl style and tried it on I found that it was so, so indecently short all my great blogger plans went right out the window. This morning I hastily ordered a new option in a size larger, hoping that it’ll be longer – I’ll keep you updated..

From Alexa’s favourite Calverley polka-dot dress, to the amazing Wade velvet boots and winter coats for every gal (and her mum) the 27-piece Winter Archive collection is certain to give your wardrobe the new-season lift its been calling for.

Shop my six favourite pieces below in-store and online now.
Clockwise from top left: Templar coat, £99Kirkgate Skirt, £35; Briggate Trench, £89;  Crown jacket, £99;  Calverley dress, £49.50; Wade boots, £65; 
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