Update on me & my newest wishlist

I am super sorry I haven't updated my blog in almost 2 months! I've been really overwhelmed with college work/ my new job so just kept pushing it to one side, but I promise I won't let it slide again!

Anyway, I just wanted to update you all on what's been going on with me recently; I've just finished my art A level which means I NEVER have to do art EVER again!!! This honestly makes me so happy because it's stressed me out so much over the past year, I really thought about giving up so many times, but the idea of going to study my dream course (which is now my firm choice) got me through it!
I also started bartending, something no one expected, but I'm absolutely loving it and the people I work with.

Now finally something fashion related; here's my latest wishlist (all of which I can't afford right now) but a girl can dream!

If you click the photo you'll be redirected to my polyvore set where you can find trackable links to everything above!

I promise to update again this week!

EthicalBox collaboration

Collaborating with companies is one of my favorite things about blogging; speaking to and working with people who are interested in the same things as me, and being able to share this with my readers. This is what makes this collaboration so special, working with people who share my values.

When I saw that EthicalBox were advertising to work with bloggers on their instagram page, I immediately posted my email for them to get in touch - opportunities like this are definitely unmissable, especially for relatively new bloggers (like me). So I was super excited when I got an email about working with them and promoting their new and improved site!

To ensure that all their stocked products are ethical, they have a range of criteria which any company wishing to sell their products should meet. The minimum which every seller has to meet are: no sweatshops, no child labour and proven respect for core internationally recognised workers rights.
Other than these they have 15 other criteria which some sellers comply by if their products go beyond the minimum standards. (Click on the icons to read more about each ethical criteria.)

Below I've put together my top 9 products which are currently available on the site, I've added a link to the photo so you can go straight to the section where they're all found. 

These dainty jewellery pieces, tribal inspired clutches and leopard print are my absolute faves, not forgetting those fab chelsea boots! 

Supporting ethical brands is 100% worth your time.

March Wishlist

Okay, so after turning 18 last month I am slightly (VERY) broke atm. Why is it that whenever you have no money, you find everything you have been looking for? But I wanted to put together a wishlist of all my March favorites for you lovelies!

I've been lusting over some of these beauties for weeks, but can't afford to splash out any more right now! These are all kind-of essentials for everyday in spring/ nights out; perfect for this month!

If you want to shop any of the above i've got all the links so you can just click and buy:

1. Ted Baker wash bag - http://www.johnlewis.com/ted-baker-mishely-large-wash-bag-multi/p1853473
2. Mac Cosmetics lipstick in Candy Yum Yum - http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/shaded/168/310/Products/Lips/Lipstick/Lipstick/index.tmpl
3. Eco Tools eye shadow brushes - http://www.boots.com/en/EcoTools-Eye-Enhancing-Duo-Brush-Set_1435666/
4. Office lace up heels - http://www.office.co.uk/view/product/office_catalog/2,37/1976801678
5. Topshop LILY platform sandals (Black) - http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/shoes-430/lily-platform-sandals-3499922?bi=1&ps=200
6. Topshop HATTY Cleated sandals (White) - http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/shoes-430/hatty-cleated-sandals-4032225?bi=1&ps=200
7. H&M Bikini top - http://www.hm.com/il/product/75542?article=75542-A & Bottoms - http://www.hm.com/il/product/75581?article=75581-A
8. H&M necklace - http://www.hm.com/gb/product/88479?article=88479-A
9. H&M hair clips - http://www.hm.com/gb/product/24857?article=24857-A
10. Miss Selfridge Tres Chic clutch - http://www.missselfridge.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?searchTerm=tres+chic&storeId=12554&productId=18528684&urlRequestType=Base&categoryId=&langId=-1&productIdentifier=product&catalogId=33055
11. ASOS Sunglasses - http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Round-Sunglasses/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=4728505&xr=1&mk=VOID&r=3
12. ASOS Animal print clutch with ears - http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Zip-Top-with-Ears-Clutch-Bag/15bx6n/?iid=4514206&r=2&mporgp=L1Byb2Qv
13. ASOS Bodycon cut out dress - http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Cut-Out-Back-Strappy-Mini-Body-Conscious-Dress/15fils/?iid=4992368
14. ASOS Lingerie set - http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Stella-Eyelash-Triangle-Bra/15f9xh/?iid=4977863
15. ASOS Chunky knit bralet - http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Bralet-In-Chunky-Knit/15izqu/?iid=4806058

Longbeach lovin' - Uni portfolio prep

I'm definitely sad to be back from South Africa, especially with this grim weather! But while we were away I managed to get some of my portfolio prep done ready for sending off to one of my uni choices. 

Staying in Kommetjie defo worked to my advantage as the setting of  the beach is stunning! Plus my sister has done some photography work before, so hopefully i've got some good imagery to send off!  

I'm completing 3 mini projects for my first portfolio, and these photos are for my Monochrome project. I haven't yet chosen my final 2 photos, but I thought this was also the perfect opportunity for a different outfit post. 

The outfit I styled was inspired by a Polyvore set I created, for each project I am styling a page of 6 Polyvore sets to show inspiration and my thought process.

I absolutely love the idea of layering pleats. So I actually paired my Topshop bralet with some H&M shorts I got a few years back. The shorts actually look like a pleated mini skirt, plus they're sparkly which is very cute. 

This post is defo different to my usual composition, I usually try to show how I incorporate Alexandra Fullerton's approach of using a background which work's with the styling, whereas for this I went for something completely contrasting. Trying something so different was really fun to shoot, and I got some very funny looks at the beach! 

Some of the images aren't so flattering, but I think it was necessary for the entire look to work. Shooting from below was something I was super unsure of - everyone know's its probably one of the worst angles, although it gave some of the best outcomes for showing off the clothing. 

I wasn't originally planning on wearing sunglasses, but the light was so bright because the sun was setting that I didn't have much choice. Hair and makeup really wasn't considered as much as I would have liked, if wearing this out I would go for a slick top knot or relaxed curls sweeping over the face! (Thought i'd give an option for an updo or having it down) Simple makeup including a strong matte lip would look fab with this, matching with a thick feline eyeliner.

 A clutch works so well with this, especially my fave holographic one! It caught the light perfectly and adds an extra element of glam for a night out! Keeping to just 2 accessories is one of my fave pieces of fashion advice; pairing my clutch with some simple bracelets as an arm cuff gave a bit of an edgy vibe without looking too glitzy. 

Simple chunky shoes really worked with this, even though they weren't ideal for standing on the sand! 

When I did my first uni application update I had received 3 portfolio viewings/ interviews, but while I was away I got my final 2! Blogging has definitely helped me to put ideas together and inspired me to work even harder, so thanks to everyone who reads on a regular basis! 

Outfit details: 

Bralet- Topshop, 

Shorts- H&M, 

Shoes- New Look, 

Bag- Topshop, 

Bracelets- H&M, 

Sunglasses- Topshop. 

Wear your party dress during the day

We all have one of those dresses which we're probably only going to wear once, but this is to show you that you can pull off party-wear during the day! Obviously sequins may be a bit extreme to try wear in daylight hours; but metallics and shimmery fabrics are perfect! 

I totally love this liquid metallic dress from H&M, it's actually quite shapeless (which would look fab on a night out with bare legs - but isn't ideal for the day), so I used a thin belt and pulled it through a bit to give it a more defined waist. The colour is super easy to match with any colours/ prints so I chose something a bit out-there with my colourful leopard top.

The mustardy background and blue spots are really chic and different, defo gives something different compared to your average leopard prints. I would definitely recommend this top as a wardrobe essential!  

By choosing just one accessory it keeps the dress-factor to a minimum. Although I did go for a rather evening style bag.

This holographic clutch has to be my fave bag ever! Just like the dress, it matches any colours etc. I also love how in the light it reflects blues and pinks (which look great with the top). Usually I go for a satchel style bag due to the space, but I didn't realise how much you could fit into this style until I was bought it as a gift!

Shoe wise, I'd stick to something black or a pair which match your top. I had to get this pair the other day! Chunky heels during the day has to be one of my fave looks, and this black pair are amazing. You could easily pair them with a cute pair of socks during the cold weather! 

Dress: H&M

Top: Topshop

Clutch: Topshop

Shoes: New Look 

Day to night

Since the weather is getting colder and many of us are starting to go to festive nights out, I wanted to show you how simple it is to update your daytime look ready for an evening out.

Choosing staple pieces is essential in pulling this off; you need a great dress or top and bottoms which can be easily accessorised. I went for a cute floral see-through top and a pair of patterned tailored shorts. Mixing patterns/ textures is one of the best trends going as long as you get it right - using prints which match in different colours or clashing designs which compliment each other. 

Adding a leather jacket and chunky boots, which match one of the garments, is a great way to add something to your day-time look. The leather jacket is a great choice for AW and can be made girly or edgy, depending on your preference. 

I love my Topshop jacket because of it's details - the studs give it that extra biker element, whilst still looking super feminine. It can also be worn with the night time look because of the colour and cut! 

Adding a statement necklace is one of the easiest ways to dress up any look! I chose this one due to the different layers and textures - it stands out from my outfit, but matches the look perfectly!

Adding heels is definitely the most obvious way to transform your look from day to night! these velvet ones with gold mid-heels look fab with the necklace and match the jacket; pulling the whole look together! Black tights are optional, but i'd definitely recommend based on the temperature! 

A great hair-style to wear all through the day is soft curls; they can look really effortless during the day, and super glam at night! (Just make sure you use plenty of hairspray!)

All clothing from Topshop, Shoes and necklace from H&M. 

Guest Post - Flo-bella's christmas wish list

Check out my guest post on my best girl's blog! Click the image below to view the post! 

November Wish List

Image definitely reflects your personality, and I think creating a wish list gives people an insight into the ideal you. I already have my christmas wishlist ready, but this is about showing you my ideal self!

    1. The first thing on my list is Ted Baker's botanical bloom bikini:

http://www.tedbaker.com/uk/Womens/Clothing/Swimwear/TTEMM-Botanical-bloom-print-bikini-top-Pale-Pink/p/115603-59-PALE-PINK

As some of you already know, I will be spending December/ January in South Africa and having this to wear on the beach would be a dream come true! The print is so delicate, plus the colour would look fab with a tan! I love Ted Baker's collections, especially the printed products. 

    

    2.

http://www.felicefabric.com/simoes-tribal-fit-flare-bodycon-dress/

Recently I have been lusting over this Felice Fabric Tribal fit and flare bodycon, I spotted the dress online when researching brands and completely fell for this beauty! The design is perfection and the colours are super pretty. 

    3. Most people know I LOVE white shoes! Which is obviously why I chose these to go on my wish list! 

 

http://www.harrods.com/product/tribute-croc-sandal/saint-laurent/000000000004542014?p=4542014&cat1=new-shoes&cat2=shoes-women-all

Saint Laurent shoes are timeless, and this pair is gorgeous! The subtle crocodile texture could be easily matched with anything and the style is super diverse. 

    4. Jeans are a staple piece for everyone's wardrobe, and ripped pairs are totally in right now!

http://liquornpoker.myshopify.com/collections/shop/products/liquor-n-poker-mohawk-white-ripped-mom-jean?variant=1005977280

I would 100% pair these with the Saint Laurent shoes and a simple white top. All white = my fave. I really love how the ripped detail isn't large holes, just distressed; which means they can be worn casually or dressed up.

    5. PJ's are an essential, but finding the perfect nightwear can be a challenge! 

http://www.bouxavenue.com/cynthia-spot-teddy--pink--mix/201349-20px

Boux Avenue's Cynthia spot teddy is uber cute and definitely feminine - not your average pair of comfy pyjamas. Garments like this always make you feel confident, fabby for a movie night with a special someone. I'd definitely wear this with cosy knee high socks (cute and warm).

    6. Makeup brushes are definitely an important base to your makeup collection, and having a good set is worth the money. 

http://www.bobbibrown.co.uk/products/2286/Brushes-etc/Organisers/Brush-Sets/index.tmpl

Bobbi Brown's basic brush set has every brush you will need to complete any look. I love the design of these brushes and the simplicity of them. 

    7.  I adore a good matte lipstick, they can last all day and give an edgy finish to any look. I experiment with colours and I think this Illamasqua number is lush!

http://www.illamasqua.com/shop/products/lips/lipsticks/matte-lipstick/corrupt-lipstick

The shade is corrupt and is described as 'warm bright pink', the swatches look fab and the packaging is amazing!

 

    8. My 18th birthday is coming up in a few months, and I've already dropped a few hints to my parents about this little gem. Which girl wouldn't love to have something from Tiffany & Co.?

 

http://www.tiffany.co.uk/Shopping/Item.aspx?fromGrid=1&sku=GRP01703&mcat=148204&cid=287466&search_params=p+1-n+10000-c+287466-s+2-r+-t+-ni+1-x+-lr+-hr+-ri+-mi+-pp+107+14&search=0&origin=browse&searchkeyword=&selectedsku=22993771

They have sooo many amazing designs, but I love this simple band with the brands name on it!

    9. Fur is fab for any occasion, casual or dressy. ASOS never disapoints when it comes to the latest trends, and these metalic shoes with fur detailing are gorgeous!

http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-HOW-WE-DO-Heeled-Sandals/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=4331538&cid=19903&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=204&sort=-1&clr=White+mix&totalstyles=1040&gridsize=3





I love how the detailing is at the back rather than over the toe, it offers something different to other pairs available (not that I don't adore them too). But this design is super different and unexpected,they could easily be worn with some jeans or a dress.

    10. Okay the most extravagent item on my wish list HAS to be from my favourite fashion house; Dolce and Gabbana. Their collections are insane and definitely began my interest in fashion.

http://store.dolcegabbana.com/gb/dolce-gabbana/short-dresses_cod34440211pd.html

Owning a piece of their clothing would be completely surreal!  The lace detailing and cut of the dress is utter perfection. The colour is obviously a bonus for me, simple but stunning!