Black and White

One day it was summer. Then came a storm. And lots and lots of rain, hence the indoor photos. The last time I wore this dress it was with flip flops and sun cream but it's amazing how you can accessorise a piece into a new season option.

I'm wearing H&M dress, cardigan and necklace, Barratt's boots, Debenham's earrings and Primark rucksack and bracelets.

Today is a quiet day. I wore this for lunch with family but apart from that I've got nothing planned. Sometimes it's nice to sit back and chill, or wait for spontaneous events to pop up. Because I've found out the spontaneous things are often the best.

As always, hope you are well!


NG <3 

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Summer Resolutions

For me summer is a time of reinvention. Even more so than New Years day. I know, it's not exactly the conventional way of thinking. Each year at the turning of the year, millions flock to gyms and swear to never gossip again. I can't deny that I am one of those said people, but I find summer a more successful point of reinvention than the new year. Why? I could blame it on the hot weather, an inspiring holiday or the juicy brights that my eye spies when the sun is shining. But, frankly, I have no idea. I suppose I've known nothing else other than being a student and the luxury of full time education is that you actually have time in summer to sit down, relax and think.  And so, as a very personal post, I've decided to share with you my 'summer resolutions'.

 
This Summer I have...

• Kick started my healthy eating plan at the start of four weeks into summer. I disagree with diets, I think finding confidence comes from a lifestyle change- and one where no foods groups are eliminated! I was subjected to the 'fresher's 14' curse (basically the average fresher gains 14lb in their first year of university) and I suppose having Dominoes on speed dial doesn't help. But one step at a time I'm working towards a healthier, happier me!

• Posted on the blog consistently and focused on the content of my posts.
                
• Kept myself active, trying new things. At University I got sooooo lazy. And I don't want to repeat that habit next year so I'm prepping myself for my second (and what I'm determined to make my best) year of uni!

• Managed to get a job, albeit casual work, but it's a job nonetheless.    

This summer I will...

• Get courageous and actually SUBMIT some of my writing. Good lord, I think I may need serious help on this one.

• Continue making more youtube videos. Nerve wrecking? Yes. But I love connecting with you guys in a more visual medium.

• Become a tennis ace, if you pardon the pun. 

• Start clashing more prints and colours.

•  Read whatever I want before the autumn semester reading list is issued. At the moment being able to read something that I choose to read if ridiculously refreshing.

Do you find summer motivational? If so what are your summer resolutions and what have you achieved already?                                  


NG <3

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The Films That Define Us #3

It has been a while since I did a 'The Films That Define Us' post, so I'm pleased to announce that this post is just that. I love nothing more than featuring other bloggers and hearing their opinions on culture and the films that have inspired them. I'm so pleased that Julianne of the blog Dollface has agreed to participate in this latest post. She is an aspiring make up artist that I know personally and I urge you to follow her on instagram (@juliannehowleyx) to see her emerging portfolio as this girl has got a gift! I love her choices, particularly The Little Mermaid, and as always let me know what you think. Over to Julianne!

What film has inspired you most as an aspiring make up artist?

"Mainly horror films! Mostly the creeper in Jeepers Creepers. I think the makeup used to create the monster is just amazing! Oh and the Freddy Krueger films also inspire me".

What's your favourite Disney film?

"The Little Mermaid definitely! It's probably because it's the most unique Disney film, as all the other Disney princesses are just normal girls with feet-haha! I think they really pushed the boat out with their imagination when they introduced a mermaid".

What's your all-time favourite film?

"Cruel intentions! Even though it makes me cry EVERY time, it's got such a good, unique storyline! The film has a really good cast as well".

 Who is you favourite actor/actress and what is your favourite film they have starred in?

"Definitely Adam Sandler! He is the funniest actor ever, in my opinion. It's the way he talks and his facial expressions, everything about him is just soooo funny. My favourite film of his has to be Happy Gilmore. It's the only film I could watch over and over again without getting bored of it!".

 
What has been your favourite film of 2013 so far?

"To be honest the only film I've seen that's been released this year is Mama. I thought it was really good and creepy! Except the ending really ruined it for me because it was so fake and silly!".

Thanks so much to Julianne for contributing. If you to would like to contribute please email booksfilms.ngblog@hotmail.co.uk.


NG <3

Heatwave

When I say it's summer at the moment, I really mean it's summer at the moment. It's a beautiful season in Britain this year, the sun is shining, the skies are blue and the temperatures are hitting 30 degrees! Sometimes it's hard to look good in this balmy heat and to be honest you're lucky if you catch me out of a simple vest top and denim shorts at the moment-practical but not very vogue! Today though I made an effort for a spot of lunch. This breezy, loose playsuit was perfect for the heat-in fact I think it may just have to replace the vest and shorts combo!

H! by Henry Holland playsuit, New Look wedges, Primark bracelets and the bag is a present from Tunisia!

Hope you are keeping your cool in this heat!

NG <3

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The Chapel

Some of you may know that a week ago I was in Wales on holiday with some family. I shared some photos of my outfits on NG but I haven't shared any pictures from the main family camera yet but I really wanted to show you the uniquely beautiful place where we stayed, a converted chapel, and some photos of the stunning scenery of North Wales.

Hope you have had a great weekend!


NG <3

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Desert Island Picks

Imagine it; you're on a lush secluded beach, surrounded by nature. Sounds delightful doesn't it? But what would you do if you actually found yourself on a desert island with nothing but five essentials? I've compiled my list of my five essentials, for fun, that I would want if I was surrounded by seclusion.

I often think a good novel is one of the best forms of entertainment and when you're stuck on a desert island, even better. No power, charging or battery required. Just an open mind and a few days and let's face it, in seclusion you have plenty of time to kill. The best books? The ones you can read again and again and still gain an alternate perspective. And a guilty pleasure never hurts too!

Calling Bear Grylls, or any other survival expert for that matter. I don't really fancy the idea of hunting a wild boar so what better than a survival expert to do the work for you. And they can make a camp fire. Bonus.

Ok, so I would love to roam around the beach looking like Gisele-even if it is sparse of human life. But, the truth is, to achieve those gorgeous, beachy waves I need a little help. And so enter hair serum-smoothes out frizz, enhances curls. Two in one, perfect for a short list of items.

Being deserted must be a tad stressful. Soap and Glory have a solution in this deep cleansing face mask. And great skin is good any time.

I will forever be attached to my mascara. And this is by far my holy grail of mascara. Ok, so fluttery lashes aren't exactly a flare gun but isn't it so nice to feel pretty?


What would be your five (fun) essentials you would have on a desert island?


NG <3

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June Favourites 2013

Well, now it is the 8th of July and we are over half way through the year. I can't believe it's time to compile my June favourites post, time just seems to be whizzing by, but I guess that just means I'm having fun! Last month I shot my very first vlog but this month I've been unable to film due to my favourites due to being away and it would feel wrong to post my June favourites half way through July!

Beauty Favourites 

Sleek Aqua Collection Nail Polish in 'Deep Coral'

I got this coral shade in the Sleek Aqua Collection Nail Polish Set, which also contained a blue, yellow and purple colour. This is by far my favourite colour of the set and possibly my favourite colour of the summer. The orange-red tone means it's a bit more fun and young than classic red-and a fresh spin for summer. I was surprised by how easy the application was as the polishes work out about £2.50 each so I wasn't expecting the product to be amazing. It wasn't the longest wearing polish but it does stick around for a while. I think I would even repurchase the set purely for this shade!

Rimmel Undercover Shadow Primer

I do love a good primer and this Rimmel Shadow Primer is cheap and a great product. It's a creamy texture that is smoothed over the eyelids to ensure that eyeshadow lasts longer. I'm not saying it's as good as the Urban Decay primer but for the price, at £4.99, there is no doubt it does enhance eyeshadow. I would say that personally I would have preferred different packaging and application as it's a little like a tube of lip gloss but the products great, which is the main concern.

Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Liner Pencil in 'Brown'

Don't get me wrong I'm not betraying my beloved slick of inky liquid liner but for an easier, fuss free look I've been leaning towards brown pencil liner this month to gently define the upper lashes or create a more grungy look. I accidentally forgot my liquid liner when I went on holiday to Spain (the horror!) but I found this forgotten treasure a treat!

Rimmel 100% Waterproof Mascara

I wanted a very inexpensive product to just layer on to my lashes for a few days while I was away to avoid the perils of panda eyes. I saw this in Tesco and I was in a bit of a rush when I purchased it so I didn't look into it too much. There are no doubt better waterproof mascaras when it comes to length but it did give subtle definition to lashes and didn't smudge in the sea or the shower.

Batiste Hint of Colour Dry Shampoo Light and Blonde

Dry shampoo, I salute you. I entered June with shameful roots. Luckily they have been coloured now but let me tell you that Batiste Light and Blonde Dry Shampoo was a saviour for me for a good part of the month. In fact it still is now for those in between days. I think the blonde edition definitely makes a difference-it certainly blends in better, avoiding the talcum powder look.

Ghost

I got this Ghost perfume as a Christmas present but I've only really started using it excessively in June. It's such a sophisticated scent with floral and fruity notes. I found it's quite a light scent as well-perfect for not being too overpowering in the summer heat!


Fashion Favourites

Missguided Star Tropical Bustier Skater Dress

When I first saw this dress in the Barcelona Heat look book I knew I had to get it. I was instantly drawn in by the vivid, juicy colours, the tropical floral print and the flattering skater cut. It didn't disappoint. It's such a pretty dress for holiday nights and days and even thought the fabric is quite heavy it adds structure to the dress and isn't too much for the heat.

Primark Beaded Sandals

These sandals are just so pretty that I couldn't resist and the £8 price tag only prompted me to get them even more so! It's the colours that do it for me and the laid-back, beachy vibe yet they still retain a glam element.

Primark Owl Cushion

Isn't this cushion just the cutest! You may be aware that I'm a big fan of owls (they're really having a big thing over the past couple of years, aren't they?) and so I had to to get this £6 (yes, really) cushion from Primark to decorate my uni/home room. Pink, polka dots and florals, a cushion really can't get any better.

Company

As an English student reading book after book can get pretty intense. I have a love of literature that cannot be extinguished but sometimes it's nice to take a little break. This month I've been reading a book but haven't finished it yet and if anything, more so, I've been catching up with magazines! So in my June favourites I'm including a magazine I've only recently started buying; Company. I love the informal rapport the magazine creates with it's readers and also the fact that there is a focus on blogging is a big seller for me.


What were your must haves for June?


NG <3 

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Life's a Beach

Sometimes one of the simplest pleasures in life is a trip to the coast; the feeling of walking on sand, the smell of the salty, sea air and the soundtrack of waves lapping. Such bliss. Now the weather is finally perking up and the grey skies have been replaced with blue, cloudless sky it was time to give the beach a visit.

It is a simple look, easy to throw together with not much thought which is perfect if, like me, your relationship with the snooze button is going steady. I'm wearing a New Look jacket, top, jeans and necklace (wow I didn't realise I was having so much of a New Look fest until writing this!) and Primark pumps.

Are you a coast lover or do you prefer to stay inland?



NG <3

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When In Wales

Helô darllenwyr! That's welsh for 'hello readers', so as you can probably tell from my regional greeting I'm currently in amongst the beautiful Welsh countryside. It's quite a change from my native suburban state of mind, waking up to a view of a dramatic coastline framed by a mountain range. Not that the scenery inside the window is not dramatic in itself; I'm staying in a converted chapel which is quite a unique experience but surprisingly it's such a homely, cosy environment. The weather, after some time in Spain, is slightly disappointing but when you're from England, how ever much you moan about the unpredictable weather, you will always grit your teeth, cling to your waterproofs and smile for the camera.

I took a few photos quickly before going out, I have to say lighting wasn't my friend today but nevertheless I wanted to share my outfit with you as I haven't done an outfit post in such a long time, which is a shame as I love seeing blogger's personal style and how they express themselves creatively.

 

 I'm wearing a H&M jacket and wedges, Primark top and tights, Zara Skirt and New Look necklace.


Hope your week is going well!


NG <3 

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