Saving Money to Travel

Saving Money to Travel

Sunday, 5 November 2017

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Money is the number one thing which puts people off travelling, not having enough, travel costs too much. It's all spending and no earning. It can be daunting leaving with a certain amount, and knowing that it has to last you x amount of time. No one wants to end up not doing things because they don't have enough money, so here are my top tips for saving money to travel.

Prioritise.

If travel is your priority, you will stop spending money on other things. You will save everything you can in order to travel. This is the trick, trust me it works. I used to spend every single penny I earnt on makeup, and petrol money. As soon as I found out that I was coming to Australia, I didn't buy a single makeup product, I just saved everything I could and it adds up so quickly.

Cut Back.

Similar to prioritising, cutting back on unnecessary luxuries will save you much more than your imagining. Buy own brand instead of branded, especially when it comes to food and daily essentials where the difference is minimal but the savings are massive. Having unnecessary beauty treatments, magazine subscriptions, daily coffees add up so fast so save these for special treats or presents from other people rather than a regular thing.

Hidden Savings.

If you can see the money you are very aware you have, the temptation to spend it is increased however if it is out of sight, it is also out of mind. Now I am not suggesting squirrelling away money in various hidden places hoping that you'll remember where you put it in months to come, but setting up a savings accounts separates money to spend from money being saved. If you have zero self control even setting up a completely separate bank account, which you simply just put money into. Don't take the card out with you ever, don't set up any kind of access to that account other than physically having to take the card and type in the pin. If you work at a job where you get paid cash in hand, buy one of those jars which you can't open until you smash it. This eliminates any risk of spending the cash before it actually reaches your bank account.

Sell.

Something which I should of done more of before I left, but I will be doing when I get back for sure. Have a clear out of your wardrobe, sell anything worth something and take the rest to a charity shop. I'm going to be selling heaps of makeup when I get home, because I have way too much. If your travelling for a long time you will soon realise how much stuff you just have at home, but don't really need. Depop, blog sales and eBay are all good ways. Getting up early and making the most of your nearest car boot sale.

Goals.

Giving yourself something to aim for, a goal will make it so much to easier to save because you can see how far you've come and how far you've got to go. While planning your trip, you'll work out pretty early on how much you think it will cost. Aim for what you expect it'll cost, plus a bit more as a buffer.

Start saving, and you'll be on your way in no time. Loads more posts coming soon on saving money while travelling, travelling on a budget and getting the most for your money!

Updating Your Wardrobe for Autumn/ Winter

Updating Your Wardrobe for Autumn/ Winter

Thursday, 19 October 2017

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I hate to admit it but it officially feels like summer is over. And as much as I hate this phrase it is officially sweater weather. I have been updating my wardrobe accordingly, especially because I haven't had a proper winter in over a year I was seriously lacking when it came to appropriate clothes for the weather. In this post I am going to share with you my staples for Autumn/ Winter and share some of my favourites.

Jumpers

Probably a little obvious, but I have been loving all the jumpers I have been seeing in the shops at the moment. Zara and Topshop have some fab ones. I think its important, although sounds a bit excessive to ensure you have jumpers of varying warmth, some thicker jumpers for the very cold days but also lighter options which you can layer with jackets and scarves etc.

Jeans

A staple in my wardrobe all year round but in the colder months I find myself wearing them the entire time. I am still loving detailed jeans, with embellishment, interesting hems etc. My wardrobe is usually quite simple so to add something that makes a subtle statement, makes it really easy to change things up. I also tend to lean towards black or grey jeans, but a bright colour or lighter pair of jeans are a great way to change up your wardrobe despite it being colder.

Boots

I am still on the hunt for my perfect pair of boots, but I think a simple pair of black or brown boots should be a staple in everybody's wardrobe. I know I am more of a trainer person but during the winter I love the look of boots, jeans and a jumper plus it keeps you nice and warm. Comfort is key with these things hence why it is taking me so long to find my perfect pair, but fingers crossed I will do soon.

Statement Jewellery
I have touched on my obsession with statement jewellery in the past, especially earrings. I find that in the winter my style gets even more simpler than usual, and by adding some fun or different earrings it can completely switch up a look. A jumper and jeans may not look too fancy, but adding some beautiful statement jewellery can add a whole new dimension and also be the focus of the entire look.

Scarves
How is it winter without a few additions of chunky scarves to your wardrobes, they double up as a mini blanket and can be properly wrapped around you for extra warmth. I love the scarves with zara and topshop always do, but am going to be looking for some more brightly coloured scarves this season to compliment my slightly more simpler colour tones in my wardrobe.

Lounge Wear
Lets be honest we are talking about the stylish side of dressing for the weather however the majority of the time I will be found in my slippers, or pyjamas, or trackies or some other variation of very warm and unflattering clothing. There are so many nice pieces of lounge wear out there, very much worth investing it as your going to be wearing it for the majority of the time.

Remember that you can scroll on all the product widgets, there are loads more products I have picked out!

What are you staple items in your wardrobe for this Autumn/ Winter?

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipsticks

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipsticks

Monday, 16 October 2017

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Kat Von D became readily available in the UK when Debenhams starting stocking the brand over a year ago. I have had my eye on the liquid lipsticks for a long time but didn't want to buy any till I could go to a counter and actually try the shades on for myself. I went to the store in Brighton, and had the best service from a lovely girl who I could of chatted to for hours about all things makeup, she was very happy to let me try loads of the products which resulted in a massive haul (you can see that here).

Lolita and Ludwig were the shades I decided on after much deliberation, I knew I wanted a true nude and the liquid lipsticks do look different on the lips, when they have set than in the tube and this is why I am so glad I tried them on, rather than just guessing online.

The pigmentation of these lipsticks are insane, with a velvety creamy texture that makes it so easy to apply, feels very lightweight and you only need a small amount of product to leave a completely matte full coverage colour on your lips. The key with the application is to not rub your lips together until the product has set, this is the key to getting maximum wear out of the 24 hour technology.

Ludwig is my favourite everyday nude, I could wear this everyday and know that it would go with the eye look or outfit, finally my perfect nude. It's a nude fawn shade, compliments my skin tone and has enough colour to it that it adds something without being too bold.

Lolita is one of her classic shades, a deep rose toned nude. Ideal for Autumn/ Winter as it is slightly on the darker side. But this does look beautiful with a fuller face of makeup, or as a statement lip to go along with a simpler look.

Despite restraining myself and picking up only two shades which I knew I would get a lot of wear out of, I am now tempted to get more of the bolder, brighter shades now I know that I love the formula.

What is your favourite product from Kat Von D?

The Worst Parts of Solo Travel

The Worst Parts of Solo Travel

Thursday, 12 October 2017

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I have spoken a lot about solo travel on my blog, I promote it in fact as I truly believe the fact you don't have someone to go with shouldn't mean that you don't go at all. I love this post that I wrote here, all about Ways Solo Travel Changed me- go have a read and hopefully you'll be inspired. However in this post, I am covering the negatives of solo travel, because as with everything there are some. I feel its better to prepared and aware of them, rather than letting them shock you as they begin to happen. I still think that the positives outweigh the negatives, so do not let this put you off!

1. Photos.
Photos as a solo traveller are tricker than when you travelling with others, however not in any stretch of the imagination impossible. Sometimes its nice to have photos featuring yourself, rather than endless landscape, food and building photos as nice as they may be. The obviously solution is to ask a stranger, invest in a selfie stick or tripod depending on how serious you are. People are usually very willing to help.
Top Tip: If your in a particular busy area where you have lots of people to choose from, wait till you spot someone who appears to know what they are doing- higher chance of a nicer photo for yourself!

2. Eating Alone.
Eating alone is a skill which everyone has to master, and it isn't that bad. Nobody cares about what you are doing, they are too busy worrying about their own food. But asking for a table for one can be daunting, but people do it all the time and you won't be the first or the last. It may be daunting, but do it with confidence and no one will bat an eyelid.
Top Tip: Take a kindle, or a book with you for some entertainment when your eating and waiting. I love sitting outside when I am on my own, watching the world go by. Or keep an eye out for places with communal eating, or big tables where you don't feel at all out place eating on your own.

3. Added Cost.
As much as you may be on a budget, travelling solo is a little bit more expensive. You can't split the costs of things such as transport, accommodation if your staying in Air B&B's, food. Often travel companies offer deals for groups or pairs which you may miss out on, these costs may be small but it is a disadvantage.
Top Tip: In terms of tours, ask around if anyone else is solo and see if you can pair up and grab the deals.

4. Memories.
You have no one to share those memories with, to look back on. As much as friends and family are interested, it is nice to be able to share something with someone who really understands because they were really there. Take loads of photos, write a diary, make sure you keep them so you can enjoy them yourself.

5.Lonliness.
Maybe the most obvious one, but you do get lonely even when surrounded by people. When everyone begins as a stranger, and you just want some familiarity you do feel lonely. Something which is hard to avoid but inevitable so be prepared for it.

6. It's you and only you.
When things are going great, it was you alone which is the best feeling. When things aren't going quite as well, it is also you and only you who is going to have to handle it, solve it and deal with it. When your feeling rubbish, things aren't going as planned and theres no one there to help you out, or even just as a friendly face it just makes it that much worse. However times like this are rare, things go wrong, you deal with it and believe me you will solve the problem and then you can see just how much you can achieve.

Overall, these are small things to be aware of but don't let them put you off. There are way more reasons why I love solo travel, I strongly encourage everyone to do it and plan to continue my solo travel adventures. The point of this post wasn't to stop anyone from solo travelling, but purely to make you aware of the downsides so they aren't unexpected and you can prepare yourself for them, think of solutions and not let anything throw you off.

The Best Brunch In Bondi

The Best Brunch In Bondi

Tuesday, 3 October 2017

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I could eat Brunch for every meal, and brunch is big in Australia so today I am brining you the low down on the best spots to get brunch in Bondi, Sydney. From my personal experience, friends experiences, reviews, hours of looking at menus and checking these places out, any excuse for Brunch.

Bondi Hardware

Amazing for brunch but will also highly recommend going for lunch or dinner and enjoying their incredible cocktails along with the food. On our visit for brunch I opted for Eggs Benedict with Smoked Salmon, which was incredible. Brunch is only available on the weekends, and we went late morning and it was surprisingly not that busy at all. The only downside of this spot is that you don't look out onto the beach. Have a look at their menu here.

Lox Stock and Barrel
Everyone raves about this brunch spot, and for good reason too. They do in fact serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. Producing delicious, beautiful food which you want to eat, making it very hard to choose from their menu. The brioche french toast is incredible.

Trio Cafe

Despite many recommendations, I never managed to eat at Trio but it will be on my list for my return. They serve anything from Porridge to Breakfast Burritos, with their dishes inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. The Mediterranean Breakfast sounds dreamy, and the perfect twist on a classic full english. Check out their complete menu here.

Speedos

Get yourself down to this place, it is always packed on the weekend so make sure you pick your time wisely and head down prepared for a short wait if you go at a popular time, however this is for good reason so do not let it put you off. I actually went here on one of my last days in Sydney, and had the most delicious brunch. The menu is incredible, offering eat in and take away, any coffee imaginable with a mix of classic dishes and some more alternative ones, as well as some delicious looking sweet treats (like the doughnuts below). I just love the overall vibe of this place, perfect for going with friends or eating alone. I went for the Lifesaver, poached eggs, smoked salmon, avocado, delicious turkish bread what more could you ask for. Check out their menu here.

Porch and Parlour
The food here is presented beautifully, and of course is just as delicious as it looks. Their dishes are very original, and more meals than a light breakfast snack so ideal for brunch. They sell things such as porridge if your after something more classic but if you want to try something different the rainbow salad sounds delicious. The green breaky bowl is incredible, and the perfect start to the day. It is a walk in kinda place so just head down and grab a table. Check out their full menu here.

What is your favourite dish on the menu for brunch?

High End Beauty Haul

High End Beauty Haul

Friday, 29 September 2017

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So it's fair to say I have no self control, but in my defence I haven't brought makeup for about a year and a half, not like this. I had the best time browsing the Debenham's beauty hall, chatting to all the artists and looking at all the new releases. It was the first time I had seen a Kat Von D counter in person in the UK, and how could I not pick up a few items along with a couple of other items I have had my eye on. Once trying, swatching, testing everything in sight!

Kat Von D has the most amazing range of high quality products, it makes it impossible to choose hence why I walked away with so much. The first thing which caught my eye and I haven't heard much about is the Lock It Setting Powder, with Micro Blurring Technology to blur pores, lock down makeup and leave your complexion looking flawless, with a translucent undetectable shade to suit everyone.
Probably most famous are the Liquid Lipsticks, and after trying so many on while hunting for my perfect nude lip I decided on two Lolita and Ludwig both nude shades, which I have been wearing daily with beautiful pigmentation which feels velvety soft on your lips despite drying completely matte and lasting all day.
The Lock It Colour Correcting Primer is another product which I haven't heard much about, but Kat Von D products are made to last and I know this will stay put all day, and keep my eyeshadows in place all day while neutralising my eyelid and creating the perfect base.

Moving onto eyeshadow, Kat Von D's eyeshadow blends like a dream, has an unreliable amount of pigmentation I literally want to own them all. Initially attracted to the quads I brought Plum and Rust to add to my collection, and with these along with the Shade and Light Eye Palette I think I have all basis covered.
The Metal Crush Eyeshadows are UNREAL, the pigmentation is insane with so much shimmer and the colours I literally want to own them all. I picked up Thunderstruck, a pearl shade with a gold undertone which can also be used as a face highlighter. Doce is a metallic copper, perfect for Autumn and Winter and something I know I am going to get so much wear out of.

Lastly the two items which I picked up not from Kat Von D were in fact what I originally went in to get, the Benefit Brightening Concealer which is the revamped version of the original Erase Paste. When this was applied to me on the counter I just loved how amazing it was to blend, without looking cakey but still offering the coverage and brightening qualities that I was looking for.

Illamasqua released their Beyond Powders and I could not wait to get my hands on them, I already want another shade which is slightly lighter for the winter months but I love this slightly warmer shade Epic while I still have a vague tan. I can't wait to test this out more.

I won't need to buy anymore makeup for another fair few months while I test all of these products out, and of course I will be sharing my impressions with you so make sure you check back for them.

Blogs I Read almost Daily

Blogs I Read almost Daily

Monday, 25 September 2017

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I spend a lot of time reading blogs. I love discovering new ones, referring to blogs for a valuable sources of information from beauty reviews to inspiring me with the next destination I need to add to my bucket list. I am constantly finding new blogs to add to my reading list, and rediscovering old ones however there is a selection of blogs which I read almost daily, and have no shame in admitting I have read nearly every single one of their posts.

Where's Mollie?

Mollie's blog has possibility been my favourite blog since I discovered it. A travel blog filled with the most inspiring, beautiful but also genuinely useful posts. I find it so easy to relate to her travel posts, and actually do what she recommends, see what she says can't be missed and have used her blog as reference when planning many trips. And I am forever recommending it to everybody I know, to use it to inspire them. Mollie also writes some more lifestyle content, again so relatable, a few of my favourites are this post about Why It's So Important to Be Single and 16 Thing's She'd Like to Say to Girls All Over The World.

Gracie Francesca

I'm pretty sure you will all of heard of Gracie, the girl boss, working to inspire people, challenging societies views and pressures, taking about taboo topics in a very frank and relatable way. Gaining herself the respect of the masses, as she inspires you to be yourself, love yourself, accept yourself. Gracie's post are honest, and open talking about sensitive topics that need to the talked about. She also posts some incredible outfit and beauty posts, which shouldn't be missed. Everyone needs Gracie in their life. My favourite posts are this post about how Empowered Women, Empower Women and this post about Mental Health.

Hannah Gale

A sassy, girl boss blogger who writes about anything from her current TV favourites to life lessons she learnt, with a few outfits and beauty posts chucked into the mix. I love how original Hannah's content is, full with beautiful photos. I find Hannah's blog post very beneficial, I always learn something, her blogging tips are so useful, her lifestyle posts teach me something new, inspire me to try something new and her fashion posts leave me with a wishlist bigger than my bank account can handle. I love this post on Letting Go of Trying To Get People to Like Me and this post about Feeling Like Your Blog Content Is Good Enough.

Vix Meldrew

Where to start with Vix, I find her blog hilariously funny, incredibly well written and the content is just oh so original.  A sex, relationships and lifestyle blog Vix covers it all. Documenting her dating experiences, her observations of the dating world as well as talking about more serious lifestyle topics. Her blog is well worth a read, and I promise once you start you'll be hooked. I love this post about What Love Island Teaches  Us About Modern Dating and Why You Need to Love Being Single to Have a Good Relationship.

There are many more blogs which I catch up with regularly, and love but we'd be here forever if I listed them all.

I'd love to discover more blogs so leave your favourites down below.

Fenty Beauty by Rhianna The Full Low Down

Fenty Beauty by Rhianna The Full Low Down

Thursday, 21 September 2017

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Fenty Beauty by Rhianna launched a few weeks ago, and ever since it graced the shelves of Harvey Nichols and Sephora everyone has been talking about it. The beauty industry has waited so long for a brand like this, Rhianna has managed to do something which so many other huge brands have failed to do. Fenty Beauty is all about inclusivity, boasting 40 shades of foundation, including shades for the typically harder to match skin tones. The formulas are designed to work with all skin types, the products are designed to feel light weight, with build able coverage but still leaves your skin looking like skin. As well as focusing on inclusivity, this collection is also 100% cruelty free. This collection is all about your skin, with no official eye products realised currently. In this post I am giving you the complete low down on the collection, with a full review post coming soon.

Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Foundation

Available in 40 shades, with a whole range of undertones, a long wearing foundation with medium to full buildable coverage. It is advised if you are between two shades to go for the lighter shade, as this does take a few seconds to dry down and with this the shade does darken ever so slightly, make sure you allow for this when testing them in a store. With the light as air formula this is almost undetectable on the skin, but leaves you with a photo ready, pore diffused, shine free finish. Remember to shake well before use.

Pro Filt'r Instant Retouch Primer

This primer is designed to diffuse pores, stop shine and of course create the perfect base for your foundation. Unlike most mattifying primers this does not leave your skin looking flat but instead mattifies the skin with the lightest feel, still leaving your skin looking and feeling like skin but with this filtered, blurring effect- perfecting your skin. Of course designed to work on all skin tones, without a trace of the product and included the longevity of your foundation.

Invisimatte Blotting Powder

A universal blotting powder for all skin tones, with no flash back. This product absorbs shine, diffuses the look of pores and mattes your skin leaving you with a filtered photo finish look. This powder is completely traceless on all skin tones, and does not cake or sit in any fine lines.

Match Stix Skinstixs Matte & Shimmer

Coming in 30 different shades, 20 matte and 10 shimmer. These come in the most beautiful, magnetised packaging. The shimmer shades are perfect for highlighting, using as eyeshadows, blushes or even on the lips. The matte shades work well as concealer, bronzer, contour and of course you could get away with using these on your eyes or lips also. The cream to powder formula is designed to be layered, so they work so well together blending together seamlessly with a light as air finish. They are also available to buy it trios, or separately depending on your skin tone and what you after.

Kilowatt Freestyle Highlighter

Possibly the product people were most excited for, these highlights live up and beyond the expectations. They have a cream-powder hybrid formula making them so buttery and smooth to apply, incredibly blendable and perfect for layering especially on top of the Skinstixs. The shades range from subtle to extremely bright and bold, with two singles and four duos of course there is something for every skin tone. Metal moon is more subtle, and Trophy Wife is much more bold but when it comes to the duos its best to find the one which best suits your skin tone.

Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer

A universal shade lip gloss, with the perfect amount of shine to perfect any lip colour. Containing shea butter to condition the lips, it leaves your lips looking instantly fuller and smoother.

Various Tools

To compliment the makeup Rhianna has also included tools that work perfectly alongside the products, from a sponge to highlight brushes and blotting paper. The portable highlight and contour brush, are also magnetised to will attach to your skinstixs perfectly.

My full review of the products I picked up will be coming soon, I am so excited to see what more is going to come with Fenty Beauty. Finally an inclusive, cruelty free beauty brand which isn't outrageously expensive and delivers top quality products.

Fenty Beauty is exclusively available at Sephora, Harvey Nichols and on their Website.

An Evening on The Harbour Arm, Folkestone

An Evening on The Harbour Arm, Folkestone

Tuesday, 19 September 2017

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In an effort to discover and explore more of the world close to home I decided to spend an evening down on the Harbour Arm in Folkestone. It is still in stages of redevelopment, but is fast becoming the food, drink and entertainment centre of the town. With independent food and drink stalls, its a great place to grab a drink and watch the sunset or enjoy some live entertainment. Walk down to the end and you reach the champagne bar.

The range of food varies from seafood, to burgers, the greek bus and delicious pizzas as well as little bars dotted all the way along. In terms of entertainment, they have such a variety from live DJs to bands as well as art shows among other things. The best way to find out about these are to check their website here.

On our visit we enjoyed the sunset, and ate pizza from Follies and drank cider on a lovely warm evening, while also getting some outfit snaps for an upcoming post. Although summer may be coming to end, spending a sunny afternoon down here would be ideal, and something which I know I will be doing again.

Every Day Makeup Routine

Every Day Makeup Routine

Friday, 8 September 2017

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Day to day I don't like to wear much makeup, I keep my eyes very simple and focus on the skin, aiming for lots of glow but to keep any oils under control. Adding some definition to my face, but overall keeping it natural.

My go to foundation for the entirety of the past year has been MAC Face and Body, I love how light this is on the skin, but it can be built to add coverage in areas which need it. I don't use concealer day to day, but simply use a little bit extra foundation in problem areas because it is so light and doesn't cake.

To give myself all the glow, I have been loving Benefit Watts Up highlight, mentioned here in my current favourites. I apply this liberally to all the usual points of my face, with a brush I find this so easy to blend out creating a natural but impressive glow.

Chanel Tan De Soleil is again a favourite from the whole of the past year, my go to for bronzing my face, adding some definition to my cheekbones and giving myself a more natural bronzed look. It blends amazingly with the Face and Body foundation, and Watts Up highlighter giving me a very natural cream based products looked.

To set those three steps in place, my go to highlighter is MAC Soft and Gentle, softly applied to the tops of my cheekbones for some added glow. I use Soap and Glory Solar Powder to add some more definition to my cheek bones and for an all over bronze, and then the MAC Mineralise Skinfinish Powder to set the remainder of my face.

For my brows, I have been reaching for this L'Oreal Brow Artist Genius Kit, a recent purchase which I have been loving. I like to mix the powder and the wax for a more defined look at the tail of my brow, and then just use the powder towards the front.

To add a bit of definition to my eyes I have been using the L'Oreal Paradise Mascara religiously, I am utterly obsessed with this mascara. It gives me tonnes of volume, and makes my lashes extra black making them stand out enough to not need any more eye makeup than just this.

A very simple makeup routine, which can be done in under ten minutes including products which are all my firm favourites.

Do any of these products feature in your everyday makeup routine?

How to Style a Little Black Dress

How to Style a Little Black Dress

Friday, 1 September 2017

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I find dressing 'up' usually difficult, a smart occasion with no clear dress code can throw me completely off. As a result of this, I have gathered a few go to pieces which I know I love and can style up or down. I brought this dress for I think about $20AUD (£12) from H&M ages ago, and it has since become my staple LBD. In this post I am sharing with you this outfit, as well some of my other favourite little black dresses and tips on how to style them.

As this dress is no longer available (sadly) I have linked similar little black dresses, throughout the post for you to have a browse of. Remember to scroll right for more.

Despite it being summer black tends to be my go to shade, although I do love bright colours a lot. This dress is unbelievably easy to wear, and completely summer appropriate as it's loose, light and airy. With the cinched waist, v neck and loose sleeves this dress flatters your body more than I could imagine. Giving me all the confidence when wearing it.

On this particular day I decided to wear this western style student belt, just to add some interest along with my old skool vans and my usual jewellery. My sunglasses are the style Electric Dreams.

How To Style...

There are some pieces that you buy, and wear only once for whatever reason. However I like to get a lot of wear out of my clothes, and buy staple items which I can style differently and wear over and over.

Accessorising

It can completely change the look of a simple dress, making a statement with a belt or jewellery can drastically change the entire outfit. Drawing the attention away from the dress itself, and people will instead focus on the more statement accessories. I love bold statement earrings, such as these ones.

A simple and effective way to accessories an outfit, and dress it up or down depending is with your shoes. My go to shoes, all day everyday, are trainers. I live in my Vans, Converse and New Balance. So of course these are my go to, if I can get away with them and I love them to dress down a dress which isn't something I feel most comfortable in. I really do struggle with dressing up. If you want to dress something down, a pair of clean white converse still look smart, you've made an effort without being dressy. Alternatively for a more dressed up look, heels are most peoples go to.

The thing I love about black dresses is, you can do whatever makeup you want. You don't have to worry about your makeup going with your outfit, because black goes with just about anything. I love to add something extra to a look by doing a bolder, glittery eye with pigments and brighter colours. Making more of a statement with my makeup than my dress.

Faking that Summer Bronze

Faking that Summer Bronze

Sunday, 27 August 2017

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With the distinct lack of a summer this year, I am bringing you all my favourite products to fake that summer glow. Whether you've been away or not, these products will bring you the perfect head to toe post holiday bronzed, glowing from within look.

My two favourite fake tans at the moment, are the Crazy Angel Dark Mousse Tan- just apply it, leave it on overnight and you are left with the perfect bronze the next day. This also lasts a few days and fades evenly. Alternatively if you however have a faded natural tan, or just want to give your fake tan some extra colour and glow my go to is the Soap and Glory Sunkissed Tint Body Lotion, a wash off tan this only lasts until your next shower but gives you an instant glow.

 In terms of makeup you want all the highlighted, bronzyness you can get your hands on. The Chanel Soleil de Tan Chanel is amazing for warming up the skin tone, as well as adding definition to your decolletage, along with the Anastasia Beverly Hills Cream Contour for defining your bone structure. By using cream products rather than powder also helps to let your natural glow show through, and leaves the whole bronze look to look more natural.

Sticking with cream products, I always mix the Seventeen Skin Wow Highlighter in with my foundation, as well as using it on top to highlight specific points of my face. You can also get this in a more bronze shade which will of course give the illusion of the tan which English summer has failed to provide. You all know my love and obsession with the Topshop Glow Pot, oh wow, this packs a real punch. Put it everywhere you want glow, and it wont fail you. Lastly, a new obsession or rediscovery is the Benefit Watts Up Highlight, an alternative to the Tophsop Glow Pot and best applied with a brush, this adds all the glow.

Despite saying avoid powders, there are a few that I can't help but read for regularly. MAC Soft and Gentle, an old time classic but still a firm favourite of mine. Charlotte Tilbury Bar of Gold, a much loved and treasure highlighter giving you all the golden vibes and works amazingly paired with Soft and Gentle. Lastly, this little pot of highlighting dust from Topshop, perfect when you literally want to bathe yourself head to toe with a gorgeous glow, I often use this on my chest and collarbones with a large fluffy brush, to add that natural glow which catches the light, but it can also be used on your face of course, even with a wet brush for a very intense highlight.

So there you have it, a round up of all the products I am relying on to give the illusion of a beautiful glowy tan.

Perth Food and Drink Guide

Perth Food and Drink Guide

Monday, 21 August 2017

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On my travels around Perth I came across a selection of amazing places to eat and drink, although sadly I didn't get to try them all I made a note of the ones which looked especially cool incase I had an opportunity to return, and so I could share my best finds on here. A small list of places well worth a visit while you are in Perth.

Sneaky Tony's

A secret bar, hidden down a back street in Northbridge. On arrival you are required to say the password (found on their Facebook/ Instagram page) to gain entry. You will take a step back in time, into this rum bar designed to replicate the illegal drinking dens of the American Prohibition, its an experience you can't miss. With over 260 different types of rum, a selection of cocktail along with beer, and wine there is something for everyone.

Frisk Small Bar

If gin is your go to drink, then head straight down here. A gin bar with 187 types to choose from you are spoiled for choice, however no worries if gin is not your thing they also have a range of craft beer and cider. They hold special events every so often, so keep an eye out for these.

Alfred's Pizzeria

Another slightly hard to spot small pizzeria and bar. Enter through a door, designed like a classic English Telephone Box, if you look up you will see the sign pointing you in the right direction. An underground bar, selling the most amazing pizza, cocktails and a night of rock and roll.

Flora and Fauna

An incredible vegan cafe, selling the most amazing brunch dishes. Despite being vegan, they have the option to add eggs and cheese to certain dishes, which is perfect for anyone who isn't vegan. The food is all prepared fresh, from a tiny kitchen and presented beautifully. They also sell cakes and biscuits, along with freshly ground coffee, and pressed juices.

Varsity Burgers

If you are after American style burgers, this is the place to go. A whole in the wall ordering system, with inside and outside seating. The basic cheeseburger starts at $10, with an whole range of different burgers, sides and sauces to choose from.

Babooshka

The place to go if you are wanting to try a Freakshake, or just want some devious all day brunch options. Everything from avocado on toast, to a loaded tim tam and coco pop freak shake.

Toastface Grillah

Selling the best toasted sandwiches in Perth, this is tucked away down a side street and sells a range of toasted sandwiches starting at $5. With a huge mural outside, you'll know when you've found it!

Currently Loving

Currently Loving

Tuesday, 15 August 2017

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I thought it was time to break up all of the travel content I have been bringing you with some more beauty and lifestyle content. Since returning to the UK I have realised just how much stuff I have which I do not need, or want anymore but while having a slight cleanse of my belongings I have rediscovered some old favourites and some new.

Starting with makeup, I have been trying to test and use as much of my makeup collection as possible. Choosing what I want to keep and what can be passed onto a better home, I have rediscovered some real gems! Firstly Benefit's Watts Up Highlighter, I initially didn't get along with this product simply because I was applying it wrong. The best technique I have found is to apply it to the skin with a stippling brush, rather than swiping the product directly onto the skin which leaves it impossible to blend out. The perfect summer glow, I literally smother my face in this stuff!

MAC Mineralise Skinfinish Powder in Light Plus, my new go to setting powder. Day to day I don't like to bake, and therefore don't feel the need to use a loose powder. This is a light powder, doesn't leave you looking at all cakey but can be built up or reapplied through out the day.

The hype around the L'Oreal Paradise mascara has been huge, and when it was time for a replacement mascara I thought I'd give this a go. Let me tell you, there is a hype for a reason. This mascara is so damn good, I cannot get enough of it! Perfect for voluminous lashes, that don't clump and are the blackest black. I do wish they would bring out a waterproof version, although I am sure that is soon to follow.

Look Good Feel Better is a charity I am trying to whole heartily support, helping patients across the UK with the physical side effects of cancer, the offer makeup master classes to help bring back the confidence which lots of cancer patients loose. They have a range of makeup brushes, which not only support this brand but are also amazing, I absolutely love the powder brush but also use the multi tasking brush daily for my foundation, the finishing brush to apply my Watts Up highlighter.

My Osprey card holder has had more use than I ever imagined, I have been preferring the use smaller bags or no bag at all in which case this is perfect because it houses everything I may possibly need. I don't carry cash anymore so all I need is card, driving licence, rail card and thats about it!

I managed to finish my year in Australia with a little more money than I expected to, so after a year of budget travel, hard working and saving I decided to treat myself to a new camera. While initially I had my eye on the well loved Olympus Pen EPL8, after a huge amount of research I decided to go of the Olympus OM-D E-M10II, and I love it! I am still learning how to use it, but can't wait to experiment more with my photography, especially travel photography.

Keeping with the photography theme, I have been printing all of my photos from Australia to scrapbook when I get a chance. I have been relying on Cheerz which is a brand I have used before and have always been very impressed with their quality, if you want to print some photos you can use my code OTTV8W for a discount.

Lastly, my SkinnyDip phone case! They have so many to choose from its impossible to pick just one, I brought this in Australia but since looking on their website there are so many more which I love just as much. If your in the market for a new phone case check them out, I have put a few of my favourites below.

Guide to Perth City

Guide to Perth City

Wednesday, 9 August 2017

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Western Australia is one of the less explored areas of Australia, often left off peoples travel plans. However if you do have the time to head West then you must do it, I am already planning another road trip up the northern coast of Western Australia. Perth is seen as one of the less exciting city to visit, and although I cannot argue with this, there is still a lot to do here. So, after a week alone in Perth I complied a list of the best bits...

Where To Stay

I stayed in Billabong Backpackers, which was a short walk to the centre of the city but had such a great vibe, loads of people, theres a pool and a big kitchen and communal area. They also had loads of events happening throughout the week, making it really social.

Perth City YHA, you'll find a YHA nearly everywhere you go and if you plan on staying in one regularly become a member and you'll get a discount which can save you some £££. YHA usually have great facilities, free wifi and a good reputation for clean, nice rooms.

If your looking to stay in Fremantle, theres a whole post coming soon.

Where To Eat

I have a full post dedicated on where to eat and drink in Perth coming very soon, but for now check out a couple of my favourite spots which were Sneaky Tony's, a hidden rum bar which needs a password to enter, once inside your in a secret rum bar with the most incredible cocktails the Pina Colada is a must. Flora and Fauna does the best brunch, freshly made in a tiny kitchen with a retro style and outside seating, the banana bread is incredible.

What To Do

Shopping
Head down to Watertown in Northbridge, for a huge array of discount and clearance shops the perfect place to snap up a high end bargain.
Elizabeth's 2nd Hand Bookshop, is full of an incredible selection of second hands books. As well as a 'blind date with a  book' where you choose a book bound in brown paper with a brief description on the front, the idea of not judging a book by it's cover.
If your after a standard shopping mall Murray Street and Hay Street Mall is hard to miss and where you'll find all your standard shops.

Arts
Art Gallery of Western Australia has a mixture of both contemporary and historical art and worth a visit, with free entry its a perfect thing to just wander in and out of in any spare moments you have, or save it for a rainy day.
Peek A Boo Gallery, is the smallest art gallery in the southern hemisphere, with the contemporary art work changing weekly.
If you love contemporary art, Perth Institute of Contemporary Art has free entry and is full of edgy and adventurous art. It also showcases contemporary dance and theatre performances.

Parks, Gardens and Beaches
My favourite beach was Cottesloe, however there is also city beach, mosman park, or scarborough which is a little further away.
Kings Park, is huge and its well worth spending some time wandering around. You can get amazing views back across the city, as well as taking the treetop walk and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

Landmarks and Attractions
Government House is a historical landmark which you may wish you take a wander to look at. A must is to walk down to Elizabeth Quay on the banks of the Swan River, here you can catch a ferry over to South Perth or take a visit to the zoo. The Bell Tower one of the top attractions in Perth, housing the Swan Bells its one of the worlds largest musical instruments.

Transport
Perth has a transport card called Transpeth, which works similarly to an Oyster (London) or Opal (Sydney) card, where you top it up and then tap on and off to public transport. You can use it on all forms of public transport. I mainly chose to walk around the city, and took the train to Fremantle and Cottesloe. In central Perth they have CAT Buses which are free, high frequency buses to get around the centre and well worth looking out for.