Fashion Friday | George

A bit of a twist on today's Fashion Friday, rather then getting the look from our favourite celebrities, I've added a trio of outfits that will help you create a look for Christmas whether that's dressing down or dressing up. And all my looks are created with budget in mind and where better to go then George (I'm lucky enough that we have a separate George store in the town I live in, but George can be found in most Asda stores), I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at my party finds.

G21 Velvet Tulle Dress - £22.00 (Also available in Burgendy)

Metallic Stiletto shoes - £18.00 (Seen in Look magazine)

Faux Fur Coat - £36.00

Accessories

Tights 

Chain Facet Necklace - £12.00

Glittered Hoop Earrings - £5.00

Chain Detail Clutch - £8.00

Total £101.00 (Excluding tights)

I think this outfit would look real cute with a small fur hat. You don't necessarily after go somewhere fancy on Christmas day but it's always nice to get dressed up at Christmas and you could definitely re-create this look for New Year too or over the Christmas period. If your going on the town, minus the jacket. Most of us own a coat and gorgeous accessories, so getting the dress and the shoes alone is a complete bargain coming in at only £40.00.

Sequin Minnie Mouse Jumper - £12.00

Skinny Jeans 

 Leather Ankle Boots With Buckle - £26.00

Accessories

Monochrome Ipad Shopper - £14.00

Reindeer Earrings - £2.50

Total £42.50 (Excluding Skinny Jeans)

I'm sure most of you own a pair of skinny jeans or two, or three. I'm not a fan of the cheesy Christmas jumper but I make an exception of this cute Minnie mouse jumper it's a little more fun with some Christmas sparkle and who doesn't love Disney. I really love this statement Monochrome bag and it's block colouring and the Earrings just add some Christmas fun!

G21 Lace Prom Dress - £22.00

Metallic Platform Stiletto Shoes -  £18.00

Accessories

Brocade Clutch - £8.00

Diamante Tassel Earrings - £8.00

Rhinestone Strap Bracelet - £6.00

Total £62.00

This is the most Christmas inspired of the lot I believe. It's very pretty and has a lot of Classic gold which is perfect for Christmas. I love these gold sparkly shoes -  I have some in pink!

What are your thoughts on the Christmas fashion pieces from George this year?

Quite shocking to find that these glamorous pieces are from a supermarket chain.

Clothes taken from the George website. Collage done using Picmonkey.

Have a Beauty Christmas...

Remember to enter my three giveaways by clicking on the pictures at the right. My latest giveaway being a 90ml Lacoste touch of pink bottle of perfume. 

With only four weeks until Christmas, I'm pretty sure most of you are in the spring of things with your wishlist made, your shopping at least half done and maybe some even wrapped. This week I bring to you some of my favourite items I've seen around blogs and maybe give you so inspiration for Christmas, if your yet to write a list for yourself.

First up are these cute Ciate Christmas tree trinkets. I think these are a really cute beauty addition for any beauty obsessive or even sharing between friends for a mini stocking filler.

A classic at Christmas is the big Soap and glory gift set, inside are some of this years best sellers with some classic favourites. We're all on the count down to Boots having the huge discount off this and I believe it's suppose to be early December from what I've heard. 

Clinique Holiday make-up set is presented in a beautiful bold pink box. Inside is a mirror, two Cream Shapers for Eyes, High Impact Extreme Volume Mascara, eight All About Shadow Eyeshadows and two double-ended brushes for application. Everything you need for lovely eyes and the palette is easy enough to pop in your bag if your on the go this Christmas.

The Molton Brown great escape collection is a perfect winter indulgent. With six full-sized treats that will give your skin some much needed TLC and a good pamper. Inside is Pink Pepperpod Body Wash Tube, Pink Pepperpod Nourishing Body Lotion Tube, White Sandalwood Body Wash Tube, Gingerlily Body Wash Bottle, Eucalyptus Body Wash Bottle, Ylang-Ylang Body Wash Bottle. The Ylang-Ylang is one of my favourite body wash scents. 

YSL La Laque Couture Colour Collection is full of 24 luxurious classic shades with a luxurious price tag to match. They don't come cheap at £395.00. But look so pretty is this shiny black YSL case. I don't think I could use them at that price. Maybe display them in a glass cabinet?

I love this Mac Winter 2013 kit - Stroke of Midnight Lip and Cheek Bag: Pink; Featuring Lipstick in How Darling! Lipglass in Soft Spoken, Powder Blush in Formal, Slim Mirror and the 129SE Powder/Blush Brush. Packaged in a sleek black and white clutch, accented with gold piping, zip closure and lined graphic interior. This sets £50.00 and well worth the price tag in my eyes. The shades are stunning and look great for winter.

 I've wanted the Marc Jacobs Dot perfume for what seems like forever. I haven't smelt it yet but what draws me in is the bottle. I know a lot of people love this scent - I have good faith. Whether it's Dot or another, this is one buy (perfume) that will go on a lot of lists this Christmas.

Real Technique sam's picks. These have been a much anticipated set of make-up brushes amongst us bloggers for sometime now and one I imagine will be on a lot of peoples lists this year. They are limited edition and once gone, there gone. I am fortunate enough to have these stored away ready to be given to myself from another already - I can't wait. These are a bargain at less then £30.00, especially for good quality brushes. I have my eye on Real Techniques starter set.

This Nails Inc diary is such good value at just £42.00 inside are 12 full-sized polishes that retail at £11 each. January – bestselling Kensington Caviar 45 second top coat
February – St Martin’s Lane new glossy grape trend polish
March – bestselling Baker Street cobalt blue polish
April – Sloane Avenue new neon coral polish
May – Fulham Palace Gardens new rainbow Sprinkles polish
June – Chester Feather effect polish
July – Notting Hill Gate neon pink polish
August – Fleet Street new Leather effect polish
September – Electric Lane Holographic top coat
October – Belgravia Place red Fibre Optic polish
November – South Kensington silver Foil effect polish
December – Knightsbridge Road new Galaxy polish

Last the UD Naked 3 palette. Containing 12 brand new matte, pearl and metallic shades which range from the most delicate pastel pink to deep black, the set contains every colour you need to give your peepers a hint of subtle shimmer. This is every girls dream come true in one little palette. Though the contents are similar to that of the Naked 1/2 but in one palette if you've not yet got the first and second then you might want to hop straight to the third unless your a Naked superfan. This palette is better then the other two in my eyes with really pretty shades.

Lacoste Touch Of Pink | A Review & Giveaway - Now Closed!

 Touch of pink by Lacoste is very much a classic choice in the perfume world. Making it's mark amongst girls/women in 2004, it was one of my first ever perfumes and one that I picked up time and time again before deciding on trying something different so I'm really glad to have got my hands on another bottle.

Lacoste touch of pink is an everyday scent and is definitely for a huge age range. It's scent being floral and over time (hours) fading to a subtle musky scent which isn't to over powering but just perfect for the more mature lady and me!

Top Notes

Coriander leaves

Blood orange

Cardamom

Heart Notes

Jasmine

Violet leaves

Carrot Seed

Base Notes

Sandalwood 

Vanilla

Musk-like notes

The scent along with the bottle, is a lovely spritz of freshness with a girly twist perfect for summer time and dark nights. But you could definitely get away with wearing it now, if your a lover of this perfume ;) It lasts longer then a few perfumes I've tried and definitely worth the £50.00 price tag. This is one perfume that you'll be happy to have in your collection.

I've got my hands on not just one but two bottles and that only means one thing, it's giveaway time. One lucky A British Sparkle reader can be in with a chance of winning one completely brand new 90ml bottle worth £50.00 just in time for Christmas. Just follow the rules.

• This is a UK only giveaway.
• If you are under 16 please get permission from a guardian/parent.
• Giveaway will run from 26/11/13 and end 15/12/13.
• Winner will be contacted via Twitter or Email address and then will have 24 hours to get back in contact before I pick another winner - Christmas is a busy time for delivery men/women and I want to ensure your prize gets there before Christmas, after all it's a Christmas giveaway.
• This is a Rafflecopter giveaway and additional entries can be met by using the entries on the Rafflecopter.
• Please ensure you follow me on at least one of the following, GFC, Google+ or Bloglovin' or all three for more entries/chances to win.
• I am not responsible for any lost/broken or stolen prizes.
• If for any reason you are unable to see my GFC or Google+ you can add yourself using a mobile device.
• Please follow the rules, don't cheat (I check all entries ;) ) and Good luck.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This perfume has been sent for review purposes*

Manicure Monday #7 | NOTD

I love this mani for this time of year. 

What do you think?

Barry M | The Royal Effect - Princess

Hi everyone, I hope your all having an amazing start to the weekend. Basically I just wanted to start the post off with my sincere apologies for neglecting my blog a little this week. Though I am dedicated completely to bringing beauty, fashion and more - books, films, a little of my lifestyle, etc - to this blog, I've also been taking time to concentrate on other aspects of my life. I have a huge dream and though this dream seems way off into the very future, I am having to try and make that dream come true by neglecting my blog a little. 'If you have a dream and believe in it passionately and give it your all, there's know reason why it can't come true, one day.' I will be delivering posts on a weekly basis, rather then a daily one (but I will try to bring them frequently and maybe even daily if/when I can), I hope you understand that following my dream and goal is one of my priorities right now whilst juggling my normal day to day life, of course so is blogging but on a lesser scale. Blogging is a huge hobby of mine, but I've not got a career out of it which is where my dream I hope one day will take me. Enjoy the rest of your weekend x

My long term readers will know that my weakness is anything glittery and sparkly. When Barry M announced the release The Royal Collection, I went weak at the knees and started foaming at the mouth (okay, maybe not). I could of bought all five in the collection if it wasn't for my excessive nail polish collection at home and the many glitters I own. When Boots had a 3 for 2 on and I had an extra £3.00 off with a deal receipt they were doing, I decided to take advantage. I only got one, go me! 

The Royal textured glitter collection is available with five shades to choose from; Princess (Pink), Majesty (Gold), Duchess (Nude), Pearl (White) and Countess (Purple) - all are glitter nail paints.

I got Princess which is of course pink. From the bottle the glitters inside are almost an orange shade, but on they are most definitely gold glitter particles inside with some silver ones thrown in for good measure. On first coat it's quite sheer making it perfect to use as a top coat over a more opaque pink. But it's buildable in 2/3 coats depending on how thick you apply it. The glitter doesn't catch the light like some glitters to do, but it's a lovely polish and looks really pretty on. The good news with glitters is though they tend to be a nightmare to get off, they last ages and I only have one minor chip two days on. I really want the other four. 

These are £3.99 each at Boots and Superdrug and online at Barry M here.

Please enter my two giveaways. Only a week and half until they end.

Get Ready For Christmas

With my stocking fillers under £15.00 and some money saving tips. Christmas can be an expensive time if you've got a wide extended but close family and children plus them important besties. With majority of products, etc increasing in price each year one thing that doesn't increase dramatically are wages and that's why I've put together some stocking fillers that are under £15.00 and ways to save money.

Lush have a fantastic range of treat sized boxes filled with a few Christmas goodies that are reasonably priced for a stocking filler or for a bestie. One of my favourites is the 'I want candy' gift box that contains two sweet treats, the candy mountain bubble bar and the rock star soap - £7.95.

If you've popped into your local Tesco's or even online recently and had a nosey at the usual Christmas items shower gel gift sets, etc etc. You'll of seen that majority are half price, I've already picked up a few stocking fillers and if your trying to save on the pennies you can get some really good sets are reasonable prices. Offer ends 24.11.13 (This Sunday, go, go, go!!) Note: To save on delivery costs you can also pick up for FREE from you local store.

The body shop have quickly become one of my favourite shops in the last few years, there continuous offers and amazing products have me completely drawn in, so much so I have in fact created a few gift packs with products of my choice to gift to others (post on that coming soon) and this year they have some reasonably priced gift sets. My favourite Christmas scent from the body shop is of course Vanilla Bliss - complete heaven - and you can get your hands on this lovely gift set for just £6.00 containing a hand cream and nail file - keeping your hands in fabulous condition for the rest of the winter.

 This year bomb cosmetics is on my Christmas wishlist. I've heard nothing but good stuff and am yet to try there products. They have some really cute Christmas products on the website, that I imagine smell heavenly in all honesty half the products look good enough to eat - who wants to be blowing bubbles all day though lol. 1. First up is this Christmas pudding candle, which costs £6.99 - This festive fragrance opens with top notes of plums and oranges, with a spicy heart which blends into a creamy vanilla and caramel. 2. The gift pack is a merry kiss-mass with a selection of products. Gingerbread trees blaster, festive ginger soap cake, the glitteratic bath creamer, bah! humbug bath mallow and the santas grotto bath brulee all for just £12.99.

 Next up is my favourite chocolate in the whole world along side Terry's chocolate orange of course. Lindt, this lindt lindor maxi ball comes with the usual round 'melt in your mouth' chocolates all in one big case. You get more then a box of course and for a chocoholic I can't think of a better gift. This is currently £11.99 on the lindt website but usually £14.99 and can also be found on offer in Tesco's.

Vouchers are one of them gifts that you can send and not have to worry about whether it's good enough (even though it's the thought that counts), one of my favorites is Love 2 Shop. You can spend love 2 shop vouchers at most shops including Boot's, amazon and so much more - can be found here. These start from just £1.00.

Make up academy is a great brand with great quality products at a fantastic price. They release great dupes of higher end products and the quality is just as good and you get more for your money. This is one for all you beauty lovers and will make a lovely stocking filler. Get a gift bag and stock it up with mua goodies, prices start from just £1.00 with palettes starting from just £4.00.

Last of all Boots. You will find amazing stocking fillers at boots or products that you can class as a main gift. With 3 for 2 at Christmas time you'll save a bob or two.

Saving tips

• Never settle for first price. The gift you are looking at/for could be found cheaper else where, look online and see which is cheapest - compare prices. Remember to add the cost of postage (you don't want to end up spending more) or try and be eligible for free delivery if you can.
•  Sign up for newsletters. Yes you might find it increasingly annoying having your inbox/junk box clogged up with emails but the benefits are well worth it. Companies send out emails with percents off or even free delivery plus telling you when the latest sales are on.
• Like companies on social networking sites. They do special offers from time to time just for there followers and some companies even have facebook shops.
• Take advantage of 3 for 2's and sales it's surprising just how much you can save.

 Happy Christmas Shopping.
Anyone going or gone to any Christmas Markets yet?

Wednesday Wishlist will be back next week.

A Small Haul | Boots & Asda

 

 Hi people, I hope you all had a good weekend? Sorry I've not had chance to post in a few days. In all honesty I've been a little lazy when it comes to blogging and just been enjoying some chill out time, I also was recently ill and currently on antibiotics. Today I went shopping, I say shopping but I mean to Boots for some essential bits and thought I'd share it what I got with you - even if some products are a little boring!

First up are a few kind of boring but important essentials. Radox bubble bath from the Eastern spirit range. This a rejuvenating blend, with oriental lotus flower and orange blossom. Wow is this flowery with a fruity scent to it and for only a £1.00 from Asda it was a bargain especially considering the size - 500ml. I recently bought a Nivea facial wash which I'm almost out of and decided to try this kind to skin moisturising facial wash from the simple range. It comes with two sets of vitamins in the ingredient I'm hoping it will be softer and less harsher on my, (what can be sometimes) sensitive skin - £3.00 Asda. 

My natural hair colour can be a little dull. It's very dark but it's that sort of shade that needs some colour to it. I used the Garnier Nutrisse creme a few months ago and was impressed - I think it was this colour, I can't remember. Either way, my hair is due some colour because it's still slightly two toned after my ombre look I did before the summer and at the moment I have three different shades in my hair. This is a non-daring deep burgundy. 

I know what your thinking. Impulse? Is this girl 15 lol. No I'm not, but I love Impulse it's my go to deodorant in fact it's mainly the scent romantic spark, it really is lovely with violet and white wood scents. Hmmm, I think it's obvious my love for the scent because I got two in 2 for £2.50 and I could of easily got a different scent. I usually get sure roll on because I have a favourite scent from that range too, but the nivea pearl & beauty was half price so I grabbed it off the shelf at Boots.

Next up I went and treated myself to Costa. I absolutely love the range of hot chocolates from Costa at Christmas time, especially the black Forrest one. Yes high in calories but like I said it was a treat and to be honest I don't care it's all about moderation. 

It was 3 for 2 at Boots and I still had a receipt from the time me and my step dad went Trafford Centre shopping (well him) and he gave me the receipt for an extra £3.00 off when you get a 3 for 2 on cosmetics. I could of chose loads of things but was very good and got two stay matte powders which I go through fairly quickly so they'll be no need for any new ones anytime soon and a nail polish from Barry M's new textured range additions in Princess. It's a beautiful sparkly pink with flicks of gold glitters throughout. There were all £3.99 each, one was free, take the £3.00 off and I only spent £4.98. 

Lastly my magazines, I get New and Whats on TV every week. Pretty boring, but I live in my own place so TV magazine is necessary. 

I'm pleased to say I went out with a list, I bought everything on my list no extras - yes the 3 for 2 was on the list! Only additional item was Costa, but does a drink count - I don't think so!

A Novel | The Mortal Instrument Series

I was originally pulled in to this franchise after seeing the movie trailer for The Mortal Instrument - City of Bones in the Twilight's last installment and I was completely gripped. I'd never heard of the mortal instrument series before shockingly, but the trailer looked completely amazing and I was soon on the hunt for the books, little be known to find there was in fact five out, eck! I originally looked on Amazon Kindle and found they were £4.99 each, which isn't bad but due to five being out and me being a fast reader £25 was a little out of  my budget. So I was super excited to find all five books at The Book People for only £6.99 and an offer was included for free delivery at the time. Purchase here.

The Mortal Instrument By Cassandra Clare

• Book 1 - City of Bones
• Book 2 - City of Ashes
• Book 3 - City of Glass
• Book 4 - City of Fallen Angels
• Book 5 - City of Lost Souls
• Book 6 - City of Heavenly Fire Coming 2014

Clary Fray is just a normal girl, at least she thinks she's just that - normal - but she's far from it. Suddenly she's drawing a mark, seeing this mark in public places and having encounters with people only she can see; Shadow hunters. All of a sudden she's seeing Vampires in Brooklyn, Werewolves in Manhattan and drawn towards the shadow hunters, one in particular and him to her. Clary is suddenly thrust in the deep dark dangerous secret world of New York City and dangers of love that must be forbidden.

My Thoughts; I loved following the journey which, is mainly centered around Clary. Clary is on this path of  self discovery, learning new things about herself whilst trying to save her mum whose been taken by the worlds most evil demon (who also happens to be a shadow hunter). On that path, she discovers monsters that she thought only existed in stories and also falls in love. Jace is her love interest, though he's a little stubborn about it really and tries not to show much emotion. But it's easy to picture Jace and fall a little in love with his character, he's laid back and cool about everything but at the same time you just know where his heart lies, he's funny, charming and comes across very attractive. There's the typical three way love triangle - but I love it. Along the way there are many twists and turns, it's a complete mystery to read and you just want to know what's going to happen next. But the ending is very surprising, something you just don't except to happen.

 I equally loved the film just as much as the book and when you think of Jace you imagine, Jamie Campbell Bower - I'm so glad he was chose for the part. There isn't much difference between the book and the film really, and unlike the Beautiful Creatures film, this stuck to the plot didn't have any major changes and was equally has fantastic. DVD is out in January 2014, UK. 

The other books;

And it doesn't just stop there, this is a huge franchise with several more books (available to purchase already), the other books have there own little journey going on, adventures through cities only known to the magical creatures. The plots deepens, thicken and get even more adventurous and even more interesting. There's a whole lot of action, funny comedy moments, romance and lots of self discovery. Clary goes through so much in these books, they all do. And the book's spread out, hopping between different characters, giving a feel for each individual main characters involved, feeling their emotion and having their point of view come across too. They are such good reads, with what we can only hope will be a happy ending but I guess only time will tell since the final installment is still to reach us next year. I've also heard there's going to be spin offs too. I definitely recommend these books to them who love indulging in a world of the unknown and love fantasy.

You may or may not have heard that the second film almost didn't go ahead. Well it turns out it will still go ahead they've just pushed the filming date back to next year. The people behind the movie, initially advertised towards a younger audience, when it happens there are more adult readers then younger ones. I'm so excited for the next installment and to see what the book is like in comparison when it comes alive on the big screen.

  

   

Christmas Time With Barry M

Calling all Nail polish addicts or lovers of Barry M. Barry M's little elves have been working over time and have created this gorgeous gift with 30 of their best selling nail paints. 

Inside the contents are full of gorgeous nail paints from original to lots of glitz and glam, textured and our favourite Gelly Hi-shines. This set is worth £115.00 but can be yours today for £89.99, it comes in this stunning Barry M pink gift box and can be bought here. I really love the shades that have been chose with the majority being great for Autumn/Winter and some bolder choices for Spring/Summer.

What are your thoughts?

*Unfortunately due to shipping limitations this product is only available to UK & EU customers. Please note Nail Paints will be similar to the image provided however your box may vary slightly due to changing levels in stock.

I asked permission to take photo from Barry M, all content I wrote myself. I've not been gifted in anyway for this post.

Fashion Friday | Mollie King

I'm back again with another 'Fashion Friday' involving one of my favourite Saturdays, Mollie - I love them all really. Mollie is very fashion forward, isn't afraid to take risks and pulls it off always.

I love this outfit, it's great for casual wear and you could get away with wearing it at any time of year. It's fresh, clean and just adds the right touches of statement pieces. The bold belt, the wooden wedge and the statement lippy. You can 'get the look for less' with my picks for just £66.99 - bargain. 

This is a great little two piece. Though I wouldn't myself wear shorts in winter, in the UK, brr! They are very popular amongst them, who don't mind frost bite on their legs and you could easily get away with wearing this from spring straight into Autumn, though Mollies choice of outfit in colour is very much suited for spring/summer the one I chose would look great for Autumn, long gone I know. But then again, depends on how daring you are. Again she looks effortlessly flawless in this two piece suit and keeping make up and accessories to a minimum, really lets the outfit do the talking.

Images have been taken from Google and stores mentioned.

Wish List Wednesday | Monsoon & Accessorize

Going off my Fashion Friday post containing both Monsoon and Accessorize and helping you get ready for the upcoming party season, I thought I'd do a wish list heading more towards the casual look - apart from the dress, I love the dress. Some picks are still in fact from my fashion Friday post which you can see here but I couldn't not leave them out.

I think Monsoon has always been for the more mature lady, but some of the choices - especially the dresses - are definitely aimed at a wider age range. I especially love the shoes and accessories. And I really love the choices I chose for my own wishlist.

I just want to get my card out and hit the shops or shop. Dreaming!

Marc Jacobs Daisy | A Perfume Review*

No, I'm not on holiday. This really was the blue skies and sunshine of last week, up North.

Last week I was fortunate enough to get my hands on the Marc Jacobs Daisy perfume gift set to review from Fragrance Direct. If you haven't heard of Fragrance Direct - where have you been? - basically it's a online beauty store full of perfumes from many different brands/celebrities plus our much loved favouries Essie, Rimmel, OPI and many other much loved brands, at a fraction of the price of high street and department stores, - definitely worth checking out.

The gift set came presented in this beautiful box, with repetitive pictures of the Daisy perfume all over it and right in the middle this pink bow. Inside were very decent sized 75ml shower gel and body lotion that smell exactly like the perfume and of course the perfume which is a fabulous 50ml. I just have to mention the bottle, seriously how gorgeous is it?, one that I for sure will have presented on my drawers long after the perfumes gone. 

What the experts say; Wild strawberry, violet leaves and ruby red grapefruit feature as tops notes in this delectable fragrance. Heart notes burst with violet, jasmine and gardenia, while base notes capture your attention with vanilla, musks and white woods.

The perfume it's self it very floral and fresh. I see it appealing to a wider audience in age from 16-35. 

It's not at all a strong perfume, though I'd say it lasts around 6 hours when you put quite a bit on, it is quite a subtle scent after a while but a little stronger when first applied. This is a perfume that's perfect for day time wear, and I definitely seeing it has a Spring/Summer staple perfume. 

I really like the perfume and just love the bottle.

Next on my list is Honey and Dot - which I've been wanting for ages.

You can save over £8.00 buying this gift set at Fragrance Direct. Shop here.

Christmas is coming and I wanted to treat my followers with a lovely giveaway. I currently have two running, but due to restrictions it's UK only. First one you'll win Birchbox, Kardashian Beauty and Models Own goodies, the second you'll win a pair of socks that were designed by me and more Kardashian Beauty goodies - tabs on the right. Please enter and good luck x

Manicure Monday #6

I was just messing about and creating a look and thought I'd show it you. I'd say I went a little   (a lot) dotty mad. I haven't used dotting tools much, so I'm not brilliant with them so it's really messy.

With Love ♥

Kate x

Fashion Friday | Partywear With Monsoon & Accessorize

Christmas - yes the much dreaded word - is quickly creeping upon us, Christmas is a time of giving, spending time with your family and eating lots of delicious food but it's also so much more especially when it comes to fashion. Some hop for a cheesy Christmas jumpers, others want to get their favourite pair of heels on and go all out with lots of glitz and glam and most importantly sparkle. This season Monsoon and Accessorize have put together a collection of beautiful party wear pieces that will have you shining at them important Christmas events, maybe it's a Christmas work do or a Christmas Party, it's time to ditch the normal clothes and get your glam rags on with Monsoon and Accessorize.

Monsoon helping you get ready to sparkle just in time for Christmas.
Below are my picks, helping you on the hunt for the perfect party wear for all events over the festive period.

•  I love this Romy Bandage Dress for a Christmas work do. It's simple yet stylish, oozes sophistication, whilst being classy and will have you looking a million dollars. I teamed it with chunky statement jewellery (the Gema necklace is full of fun and colour), a pair of very glamorous heels (a beautiful satin finish with a diamante bow finish) and a simple, yet equally stunning matching clutch.

Party wear - I know for a fact majority of you will be getting your party dresses/shoes on and hitting the town over Christmas. New year - yes I thought so. Parties - most likely. I've chose my favourite party picks from the Monsoon party wear range along with some Accessorize accessories. 

• Up first is this gorgeous floaty chiffon dress in grey. On the collar is beautiful detail of crystal, pearls and sequins which really adds to the vintage glamour of the dress. I styled it with these navy Eva shoes (with a trendy black diamante toe cap, they give a real edge to the outfit), and matching Eva clutch (with gorgeous detailing, matching black diamante this clutch really completes the look). I've added these simple, yet stunning silver studs.

• Next, this gorgeous Esme prom style dress with removable satin sash. It's got gorgeous detailing and a beautiful ribbon bow - I just love this shade of dress for Christmas and the gold detailing is just stunning. Along with the dress I've added this gorgeous Samir glitter box clutch (glitter and sparkles is very Christmas) and these gorgeous shoes, that come with gorgeous crystal bow detailing that will compliment any shoes and jewellery you want to add. I personally feel a lot goes on with this dress and feel the dress should really do all the talking.

• This is the most gorgeous teal dress, the added detailing of embroidery and iridescent beading really gives it that special touch. I teamed this with beautiful yet simple glitter envelope clutch, gorgeous shoes (beautiful bow and open toed) and trendy statement jewellery, this beaded necklace (trendy tribal with a pop of colour) and this gorgeous statement ring - I LOVE this ring.

Is it just me who likes to get dressed up when it's Christmas? whether I'm staying in or going out. I've picked two more casual dresses to choose from. Of course we find ourselves going to families houses on the big day, but Christmas is always my excuse to dress up. 

• You can never go wrong with a LBD and this Suri heat seal dress is gorgeous for Christmas with added crystal shimmer to the neck line it adds that lovely touch of sparkle. I love this statement clutch, featuring a floral digital print with opulent, glittering beads. Elina simple court shoes and a pair of gorgeous Chandelier earrings. 

• I am really loving this Even embellished dress with a spot weave shimmering detail on the pleated neckline. The sophia sequin jacket is the perfect cover up with its lovely sparkle of beads and sequins and gorgeous shade of gold it just completes the red dress. With a statement floral clutch and matching shoes both with under gold detailing these add instant glamour to all outfits especially with this dress and cover up. Jewellery wise are some simple flower studs and gorgeous statement bracelet. - This is a perfect outfit for Christmas, you don't get anything more Christmas inspired then shades red and gold.

The Monsoon website and Accessorize have a lovely range of gorgeous pieces perfect for over Christmas and into the New Year. There's something for everyone and everything is completely gorgeous, these just being a few of my favourite choices. Shop here.

Happy Shopping! (Click photos to enlarge)

 *This post was wrote after being asked to do a collaboration. I've wrote all content, along with doing photo collages, however all pictures were taken from the Monsoon and Accessorize website. I've not been paid or gifted in anyway for this post. Video taken from Monsoon. 

A Novel | Teardrop

I love nothing more then sitting down on the sofa with a lovely cuppa and indulging in a really good book. I first discovered Lauren Kate when I was lucky enough to win the entire Fallen series and I've never looked back. When I heard she was writing another novel I just knew I had to have it - though my expectations were high due to how good the Fallen series actually was and them expectations were met. Now I'd just like to point out that Fallen and Teardrop are found in most places in the children's/young adult section, now this really annoys me because most Fantasy books are, but the likes of Harry Potter and Twilight were also in the children's/young adult section but they were a huge hit amongst adults too. Though the main characters in these books are in fact of high school age, I believe they can be thoroughly enjoyed by all ages. 

Asda £5.00 RRP £9.99

 Teardrop by Lauren Kate

 Eureka won't let anyone feel her pain. She won't cry no tears for her mother forbids it - well she once told her never to cry - that was before she tragically passed away. The only one she can confide in (her best friend Brooks) seems to have changed. And she wants to escape, from her dad, his new wife and their twins but one thing holds her back; Ander. He's been their her whole life, watching from the sidelines. It's only a accident that let's them meet face to face, finally! Eureka, then finds herself seeing Ander everywhere, he's following her, he knows more about herself then she does and it's only then thing's start to make sense. The book her mother left her, her mother's death and Ander. Eureka thinks there all connected, and she will do whatever it takes to discover the truth.

My thoughts; Due to my love of fantasy, I was completely excited to get my hands on Teardrop. Being gripped in a world that doesn't exist, is what makes fantasy novels so fantasic. Like mentioned my expectations were high due to how good the Fallen series was and it lived up to them expectations. I was fully wrapped up in the story, wondering what was going to happen next and I was excited just to get to the end - though I didn't want it to end because it was good, you just hope it's going to have some sort of happily ever after. Teardrop is emotionally gripping. It's not some fairytale where everything's completely perfect but full of sadness, trauma, despression, loss, love, confusion, etc. You can relate to Eureka, because everyone's had them emotions in their life and lost someone close to them at some point. It's a haunting tale, where Eureka really learns about herself, stuff she didn't think could exist. You really learn much more about the mythical Atlantis and it's also much more to Eureka then some story tale. Eureka is quite a vulnerable character but due to the heart break she's been through and how you can truly relate to her, it makes her some what likeable. It's a beautiful and gripping tale and I'm just glad to say it's not over because there will be a second book to Teardrop. There wasn't much of a happily ever after, more of a cliff hanger which makes you want the second book to this series to come even sooner. The wait begins.

Got any book's by Lauren Kate. Be in with a chance of meeting her and getting them all signed, including Teardrop. 

Tuesday November 12th, 2013 at 6:30 PM at Waterstone’s Piccadilly, London, UK 

Listen up, UK fans! Just one week to go til Lauren Kate's first public event in London - yay!
Come to Waterstones Piccadilly in London on Tuesday 12th Nov at 6.30 to see Lauren and Tanya Byrne discuss taboos in YA literature.
Get your tickets from events@piccadilly.waterstones.co.uk

  Thursday November 14th, 2013 at 8:00 PM at Eason’s O’Connell Street, Dublin, Ireland
 Saturday November 16th, 2013 at 1:00 PM at Waterstone’s Bluewater West, Greenhithe, Kent, UK  

Totally wishing I could go but unfortunately I live up North. Would love my books signed! 

Fact: Fallen is going to be made into a motion picture film, with Luce and Daniel already being chose. Rumour is it will be out next year sometime. Watch this space!

Wish List Wednesday | Bath Cosmetics

I've been gazing at Bomb Cosmetics for sometime but I'm yet to take the plunge and order some goodies. I don't know why it's taking me so long, the products rival that of Lush and are absolutely gorgeous to look at. I looked the entire website and to be honest it was hard to create a wish list, I want everything, but these are what stood out to me the most. These will definitely be going on my Christmas wish list. Bath Cosmetics also do gift boxes like Lush.

Bath Cosmetics recently, released, a selection of Christmas goodies. Since it's now November I thought I'd do my Christmas picks for a Christmas inspired wishlist. 

Book Review #5

Mandy decides to write to eligible bachelor after her best friend dares her too after seeing him in a AD and that's not all he's a millionaire too. Little be known to Mandy she is in fact exchanging letters with the mans friend Adam Gray whose replying on his friends behalf. His friend however is soon asking Adam to go check out Mandy at her B&B by posing has a guest to see if she's a possible wife to be. Adam however helps Mandy get the business up and busting with customers something that lacked a lot before he came along. Spending more and more time together Adam and Mandy start to get feelings for one another leaving the friend abroad wondering what his maybe wife to be will be like. Unknown to them he's planning on marrying someone else. Things only go down hill with truth coming out, whilst Adam and Mandy drift apart but miss each other madly are they destined to be together or apart forever. Score 10/10 - Love this. Free.

Workaholic Dean woke up not remembering anything about the two day's that had just passed of his life. Until Kelly came knocking his now new wife. He's a business man, she's a Las Vegas dancer. A match made in hell, dean does find kelly sexy but kelly is no airhead and won't be pushed about. Dean is turning out to be everything he didn't want to be just like his father. With the marriage looming about him, he flies out to kelly in las vegas from boston to give her a trial marriage. Dean's anything but warm, his heart is made of stone and his presence is cold and miserable but Kelly knows deep down somewhere inside him his the lovely heart warming man she married. And she's determined to find him. Score 8/10 - I really liked this too, it was a really good read with romance and a little comedy. Free.

Natalie Daniels, husband just dumped her for someone else. Her new boss is trying to get her to walk away from her job has a news presenter and she's falling in love with her agent who is engaged to somebody else even though he's secretly in love with Natalie. Natalie isn't one to fall or fail and will work hard to get her career back on track and get on with watching the man of her dreams be with someone else. Will she be a falling star or rise bigger and better then ever? Read to find out... 10/10 - I loved this too, I love reading anything that gives a insight in to what could be a celebs lifestyle and this story went between numerous characters including bitchy Kelly. I really liked this and finding that age is just a number. - Free.

Book covers taken from Google.

Christmas | Beauty Advent Calendar 2013

Advent Calendars have been a purchase made by every parent for their children for years. Until recently the beauty calendar was very much non-existent, then as the beauty industry grew so have beauty calendars, you can get them most places with the majority of beauty stores jumping on the beauty advent calendar bandwagon. Come Christmas and us beauty obsessed individuals are not wondering what chocolate advent calendar to have, but what beauty calendar we want to get our hands on and what beauty treats lie in store behind each window has we count down the days to Christmas in style.

This year a vast amount of calendars us beauty lovers will love have been made available from much loved high street brands to expensive department store luxury brands and even candles. 

  

Yet to be released and one I personally didn't know was coming, is The Body Shop advent calendar. I imagine this will be filled with decent travel sized products. There will be lots of variety with everything from hand cream to all of our favourite body lotions, lip butters, and soaps included. This will be out this Wednesday costing £55.00 but will have a value of £80. 

There's a beauty calendar for everyone. Nail polish lover then the Ciate calendar is definitely for you. Candle obsessed the Yankee one is calling your name. I personally am in love with the you beauty discovery calendar, with a value of £240 and costing just £44.95 it's a real bargain and there's so much variety, with skincare and make up to indulge in. I also think the Boot's one is fabulous for them on a budget with a great selection behind each door. 

Have you got your hands on a calendar? Which what have you got? or is there one you want or hope to get. Comment below, I'd love to know. I unfortunately haven't this year, maybe next.

Also, I hope you all have a great bonfire night tomorrow if your going to any parties/displays. 

And please enter my giveaways tabs can be found on the right.  >

Images taken from Google.

Manicure Monday #5 | NOTD

Hope you likey!