Mens formal fashion

Let's be honest , there is little more attractive then a man in a good suit. Whether he is off to work or strolling down a red carpet , men scrubbed up in formal attire are instantly ones to watch. In the lead up to the ultimate red carpet showdown, tonight's BAFTA's, I have collaborated with House of Fraser to talk about some of my favourite red carpet looks from across the years and even throw in a little look book of my own at the end.

First up is the always dapper Bradley Cooper. Now, let's face it this man never looks bad, however, this look at the Critics Choice awards, shows how a simple suit can instantly bring a man to life. I'm not a fan of lots of 'add ons' to suits so I think this is simple, well fitted and effortless.

(Bradley Cooper, Critics Choice Awards) 

My second choice is some home grown talent in the form of Tom Hardy. We all know the man is amazing, but I think this picture shows how you don't necessarily need a suit to look scrubbed up and pulled together.

(Tom Hardy)

As I mentioned in the beginning this post would not be complete with a little style post from yours truly. Now, I have not decided to pull off the Angelina 'tuxed' look just yet, so cue my glamourous assistant (and boyfriend) Dan. 

(Shirt- Tommy Hilfiger *, Suit River Island last year.)

I think this look  again shows how a simple well fitting shirt can instantly make an outfit more formal and ready for a bigger occasion. This particular shirt is from Tommy Hilfiger and I think fits him perfectly.  What Dan also loved about this shirt is that although here he is wearing it with a suit and in a formal look, it could also work just as well with jeans, for a more dressed down day time look.

So what's your favourite men's favourite tips and tricks? Do you go mad for bow ties or crazy for chinos? I can't wait to see what some of our favourite men will be wearing down the red carpet tonight. 

Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Serum

Having recently discovered my love of skincare, and my need to search for the next best thing for my face. I was more than excited when Pestle & Mortar got in contact to ask if I wanted to test out their new Pure Hyaluronic Serum. From years of being blog obsessed, I knew that hyaluronic acid was great for retaining and plumping skin as it retains water, so I thought this would be perfect for my dehydrated, lackluster face.
I am such a packaging snob and when I received my serum I could not have been more impressed. I think the pictures explain it all- I mean how beaut will that look in your bathroom?

I have to admit I am still in the testing stage with this product, but from what I have used, I love it. The texture is a little oily and so for me this is not suitable for daytime use. However, for the night time you need between 1 and 2 drops to penetrate into your skin and plump it up. 

As you can see from the pictures, you get 30ml of the serum and I really think it will last you a long time as you need so little, especially if you only use it once a day like me. Bearing that in mind, I think the price, £33, is not too extravagant and paired with a great moisturizer,will be the perfect addition to your skincare routine. 

Like I said, I am still testing it out, but at the moment, I'm more than happy with the results, but I'll keep you posted. 

Family & Friends Valentines gift ideas

So thought I would round up the week with some of my favorite gift ideas for family and friends over the Valentines period. All of these are more sentimental, thoughtful gifts so perfect for a family member or your bestest friend.

(Cutlery Commission, Initial Necklace, Boomf)

1. Cutlery Commission
This is too cute for words, beautiful silver cutlery engraved with a cute little message of your choice. To top that off they make hidden message spoons which make a great hot chocolate and then reveal your lovely message to your loved one.

2. Initial Necklace
I think these are perfect for mums, especially if you have siblings you can get all your initials on these beautiful pendants and hang them on the one chain.

3. Boomf
I think I saw these ages ago on Instagram but yesterday I saw the advert on TV and was intrigued as boomf,  turn your photos into marshmallows! Although pricey at £15 for 9 its a really cute novelty for this time of year.

Girls Valentines gift guide

So after I did a men's guide I couldn't not leave a few hints out there with my women's gift guide for Valentines.

(Jacket, Notebook, Chocolate, Candles, Ring)

1. Joules Coat 
As I put a coat in my mens guide I thought, may as well throw one in here too. This beautiful Joules quilted jacket is perfect and will keep you really warm this winter.

2. Chroma Stationery 
I discovered this brand on Twitter last week and it's so perfect. You can get beautiful notebooks embossed with anything you want , quotes, names, anything- and we all know girls love a quote.

3. Hotel Chocolat
This is a no brainer at Valentines day you buy chocolate. I am not a chocolate snob, I'll eat anything, but I love Hotel Chocolat and it'a a nice treat instead of your regular Dairy Milk.

4. Stvdio5 
I know what your thinking- chocolate twice really! Sadly not ! Although this looks good enough to eat these little babies are actually wax tartlets, but this site has everything from soap to bath bombs and it all looks amazing!!

5. Tiffany & co ring 
Again another 'typical' Valentines day gift but every girl loves a little blue box. Tiffany is iconic and beautiful and this ring is a classic piece that will last for years.

Valentines gifts for men

First things first, before I launch into the first of my Valentines day gift guides, I have to mention this guide is based around what I would buy my boyfriend- rather than generic 'men' gifts. I really hope some of you find this useful and let me know if you would get any of these for the man in your life this year.

( Coat , Oil, Car print, Bag, Slippers)

1. Barbour Waxed jacket 
This is my very splurgey gift and to be honest, not sure I would ever spend this much on a Valentines day gift, but this would be my boyfriends ultimate gift. He adores Barbour and although pricey these coats will last you a life time. Plus I managed to find this coat on sale at the moment, pretty sure half price! So if you do splash the cash- why not save a little bit too.

2.Beard Oil
This is an odd one, as I wouldn't actually buy this for my boyfriend as sadly for him he does't have a beard- I know it breaks his heart. However, I know how big beards are for men at the moment so why not treat them, I mean it's stuck on your face all day!

3.Car Print 
I don't know a boy who doesn't have some kind of interest in cars, and this just happens to be a print of my boyfriends new baby. However, I don't think it needs to be a car, I think a nice print of something or someone they like is a great and thoughtful idea.

4. Ted Baker bag
I adore Ted Baker and it's fast becoming one of my favorite designer brands. I was just having a nosy on the site over lunch last week, and spotted this bad boy. I think it's the perfect combination of smart and casual and a perfect every day bag - plus I'm pretty sure it will fit most laptops, win, win!

5. Slippers
Granted this maybe a little bit old for the man in your life - I actually bought these for my dad at Christmas. However, he raves about how warm they keep his feet and at this time of year why not invest and keep your loved ones tootsies warm in these beautiful leather slippers.

Lush Feeling Younger Skin Tint

So after my last weeks post saying I had my first Lush experience , I've now dived in head first and bought more products, but probably not what you would expect as they are from the make up line. 

This absolute beauty caught my eye as soon as I walked in the store and I could not leave it behind. The Feeling Younger Skin Tint is described on the Lush site as, "  A light-reflecting skin tint made with oats, fragrant essential oils and cocoa butter for a gorgeous glow wherever you want it. Soothing oatmeal is combined with nourishing jojoba and almond oils as well as cocoa butter, and we blend in a pigment that reflects light. Use it on its own or under our Colour Supplements to give your face a dewy radiance."

 However, I saw it and only one word sprung to my mind- HIGHLIGHT! 
The light mousey consistency makes it perfect for applying on top of your favorite liquid foundation to give you the perfect, 'lit from within' look. 

At £12 it isn't the cheapest highlight in the world, but you do get 20g of product and considering the amount you need I'd be very surprised if I ever get through the whole pot. 

I am looking forward to mixing it in with my foundation, to see if it gives me an all over glowy look , I feel with this the possibilities are endless.

Ebay picks #5

I'm back absolutely loving ebay  again, so I thought I'd share my top picks for the moment. With everything from, coats to travel card holders it's a massive hotch potch of what's in my online shopping basket at the moment.

(Coat, Bag, T-shirt, Travel card holder, Dress)

Weekend away in Edinburgh

My birthday was January 12th and this year I was lucky enough to be away for the weekend before with my other half. After a bit of umming and ahhing we opted for Edinburgh and definitely were not disappointed. I kinda failed from a blogging point of view and only got a few pics of the scenery, but thought I would upload them anyway.

We stayed in the Premier Inn on Lauriston Place and it was absolutely brilliant, and only a 10 minute walk from town, so I would really recommend it. As you can see from the pictures it was bloody freezing and I was wrapped up the whole time. However, we didn't let the weather dampen our spirits and we walked all around, from, shopping on Prince's Street, to Edinburgh Castle and both the museum of Scotland and the Money Museum - we had a busy day!

Honorable mention for the weekend has to go to Ben's Cookies. I'm sure I have seen them on Instagram so when I saw the shop in town, I made Dan stop. One word- WOW! To be honest, kinda wish we hadn't tried them as now we know we can't get them in the north, its devastating but for a special away treat they were the best.

*Oh and that last picture is my beautiful new coat which was a birthday present I picked up over the weekend to - in love!

All in all our weekend was perfect from start to finish,  so if your thinking of a trip away for the weekend, add Edinburgh to your list.

Lush - First impressions

Now this is going to be some what of a controversial post as unlike, what seems like every blogger on the planet, up until last week I had never had, wait for it... A lush bath! 

I know, your all screaming at your screens, what have I been doing with my life. It's not that I have been living under a rock and never heard of Lush, but to be honest I could never justify, the what I thought of as very high price tags for essentially one bath. I mean £3.50 for one wash seems far too luxurious for me. I can't believe anyone smells that much!

However, this year I bit the bullet and asked for a few bits and bobs to test out, to see if I really was missing out on the creme dela creme of bathing. 

As soon as I got home at Christmas I thought it was time to indulge and throw in one of my Christmas treats and ... am I converted?

Well to be honest I'm not sure, I did really enjoy the smell and the fact that the bubbles didn't irritate my eyes at all so I could wash my face. However, I couldn't get over the price and I really don't think I can justify these all the time. As a treat or even better a gift, I'm game, but I just don't think I will be a converted "lushy" I'm afraid!

Am I wrong, is there one Lush product I simply have to try to change my life? Please let me know I am always game for being proved wrong.

Birthday Wishlist

I know Christmas is still only a blink ago, but sadly for me I am a January baby, so I very quickly have more gift lists and items to lust after. My birthday is next Monday, 12th January, so I thought I would share with you all a few things I have my eye on either to ask for or to buy with any pennies I may be lucky enough to get this year 

Zara Coat, DVD, GHDs, Kiehl's, Olivia Burton Watch 

Sunday Splurge #4

This weeks splurge is a little lower on the price scale from last week, but definitely still a considered purchase. This beautiful bangle from Michael Kors is absolutely perfect for stacking and wearing all year round and I think would work perfectly with my MK watch.
Talking of watches I know we have all heard of the MK watches but they have some other beautiful pieces of jewelry so make sure you check out the whole jewelry line if your looking for an after Christmas mini splurge.

Michael Kors Astor Bangle.

*This featured  post was created in collaboration with Market Cross Jewellers

Brand picks- Watches 2 U

I know with my new Sunday Splurge section, I have been featuring a lot of higher end products, so I thought to even it out I would give you a little run down on some budget options- especially with  the festive season and pennies being pinched.

This time around I thought I'd show you the amazing array of cheap watches that Watches 2 U stock. Not only will these be great for all my girly readers looking for a treat for themselves , they also have a vast array of men's watches, so if your still looking for a last minute gift for that man in your life, this could be a life saver. All can be found at the click of a button, just here.

* This featured post was created in collaboration with Watches 2 U

Sunday Splurge #3

I am a little shocked it's taken me three weeks to include a  handbag in Sunday Splurge, as I am without a doubt a handbag addict. This week I am truly lusting over the Givenchy Antigona handbag, especially in this beautiful soft pink. Yes, it may not be the most winter appropriate colour but it is love, and it is now on my 'must have before I die list'

Brand Picks - QVC

Ok, so technically this isn't a brand but I am a huge fan of QVC and have to admit to watching far too many hours of displays and demonstrations on a cold Winter night.
However, lately QVC have really been knocking it out of the park, especially with their beauty selection, so I thought I would give you my top picks at the moment.

( Foundation, Brows, Cleanser, Body kit, Mascara, Face cream)

Burgundy/Plum Hair

If you have followed my blog for a while you will know, I often bang on about my hair history, in fact I've done a whole post on it and my indecisiveness at where to go with it now. At the moment I am pretty sure that the blonde is dead and gone, I just can't commit to the financial and physical damage it has on my head and my bank balance.
From today I have finally set upon the decision that I want a burgundy/plum shade to my hair.I know this was fashionable a while ago but I had it then, and I have decided at the grand old age of (nearly) 24,I fancy it again. These are a few of my fave inspiration pics so far, so let me know what you think.

Splurge Sunday #2

So this second splurge Sunday is a splurge on steroids, it's so high end it blows my mind. In fact have you ever heard the saying, 'if you have to ask, you can't afford it,' well that's exactly the motto of George Pragnell.
However, that does not mean a girl can't dream, and we all know we love having a good gaze at beautiful diamonds and they don't get more beautiful than these. Sadly if like me your super nosey and like to know exactly how mind blowing the prices are, this isn't quite the site for you as it's all done by booking an appointment.

As I said this maybe nothing more than a dream, but these pieces are beautiful and if you are in the market for a proper diamond , one I'm super jealous and two, head over to George Pragnell.

*This post was created in collaboration with George Pragnell

Top picks - Knee high boots

I know this trend has been everywhere lately and I do love them when I see them, but I'm struggling to find a pair that suits me perfectly and works for me. I feel like as amazing as knee high boots can be I have to be careful I don't a, look like a stripper or b, look like a drag queen as I can look really tall. These are my top pick, but if you do find any others please let me know.

( La Moda - No More Drama boots, Topshop Denver pointed suede boots, New Look black strap details over the knee boots, )

Sunday Splurge #1

This is a new feature I'm going to start running on my blog, because we all know we love a good splurge and what better day to enjoy them, than by lying in bed lusting over said items on a Sunday.
This Sundays splurge is not only a beauty,but for the men out there, take note, this would make a perfect christmas pressie for the lady in your life.

Chisholm Hunter Diamond Rings 

These beautiful diamond rings from Chisholm Hunter are effortless and understated, meaning you could wear them every day, but also have a beautiful luxurious feeling, that only a girls best friend, could achieve. If I haven't sold you already this site has amazing deals, meaning what you would imagine would break the bank, really only causes a little crack.

Christmas Countdown - Girls Gift Guide

Michael Kors Watch, Unicorn onesie, Phone case, Fun, Doughnut maker, Fuji Film instax

Michael Kors watch -

 Every girl worth her salt has seen and heard of the amazing MK watches , last years it Christmas gift. However, I don't think this tortoise shell one is similar to any others I've seen, and will make a unique addition to anyone's accessories wardrobe.

Unicorn onesie- 

Does this even need explaining, it's two of the best things in the world combined into one amazing gift! 

Phone case- 

Any phone case makes a perfect stocking stuffer, but this one in particular will add a certain something to those mirror selfies. 

Lush fun- 

yes, this does look like a bakery item, however it's actually an amazing bath time treat. Call it a playdoh for underwater, it's comes in 3 different colours, but this gold one is extra festive. 

Doughnut maker- 

Now I know, come the new year everyone will be swearing off sugar and hitting the green juice. But for those regular treat days, or weeks in my case this doughnut maker will come in useful. 

Fuji film instax- 

if you follow me on instagram( which you should) you will know I posted this the other day as my gift of choice from Santa this year. I love photos, but  being a digital baby always have them on my phone and never a physical copy. This beauty will help make all yor memories come to life and plus it's pastel- what more could you want! 

Black Friday fashion deals

Couldn't let this go without a quick post, for all you bargain hunters like me out there. Below are all the best links for deals on fashion sites this year, but hurry as many end tomorrow morning ! 

 

BooHoo

30% off and free delivery

No code

Starts on Friday, ends on Monday

http://bit.ly/11TNt6Y

 

Missguided

20% off

CODE: CYBER20

Starts Thursday, ends Monday

http://bit.ly/11TNxna

 

AllSaints

20% off

CODE: CYBER

Starts Friday, ends Monday

http://bit.ly/11TNS9m

 

ASOS

20% off

CODE: CYBERWKND20

Starts Friday, ends Tuesday

http://rstyle.me/ad/gghxt4kn

 

River Island

20% off everything from 11am-3pm on Friday

CODE: TREAT28

http://bit.ly/1yb58BV

 

French Connection

30% off 

CODE: 30FCBF

Starts today, ends Friday

 

40% off

CODE: FC40B

Starts Friday, ends Monday

http://rstyle.me/ad/rrjywt4kn

 

Gap

50% off

CODE: BLKFRIDAY

Starts Thursday, ends Friday

http://bit.ly/1yfGl0y

 

Topshop

Up to 50% off selected lines

Starts Thursday, ends Monday

http://bit.ly/1yb6mgp

 

Urban Outfitters

Up to 50% off

CODE: BFDELIVERY

Friday only

http://bit.ly/1yfHhSy

 

Whistles

30% off everything

No code

Starts Friday

http://bit.ly/11TPe41