The Relaxation Edit

I don’t know about you but I’m craving a little me time (and definitely not feeling 22).

Relaxation. It’s something we all need in our crazy, hectic lives. The ‘slasher’ generation, as millennials are sometimes referred to, not in reference to a fondness for 90s horror films but instead due to the multifaceted way in which young people often approach work, could really do with a little R&R.

Even those who aren’t so busy could benefit from a little me time. It’s so crucial for refreshing, recharging and feeling much more energised the following day.

As you can probably tell, I’m a big advocate for taking time out daily to do what makes you feel calm and help to forget the perpetual worries that are a nasty side-effect of adulthood. I realise switching off can be more difficult for some than others, and poor mental health won’t be solved by simply lighting a candle, but the act of taking care of oneself and prioritising needs and wants is something that has certainly helped me during challenging, stressful times.

The wonderful thing about relaxation is that it’s so personal. Years ago, writing my dissertation I found glimmers of light in stepping out of the house – and the prison that was my bedroom/study room/personal hell – and going for breakfast or coffee with a friend. For another housemate, she found solace in losing herself in a world of video games. It’s each to their own and I find that so charming.

Growing up watching romcoms, my image of relaxation was always centred around the fabulously glamourous heroine, surrounded by thirty candles in a bath that never seems to lose its bubbles, while sipping elegantly on a glass on fizz. I’ve tried to recreate it and it doesn’t quite work that way. Well, not unless you’re willing to use an entire bottle of bubble bath. And don’t even get me started on the fire hazard from that many candles, which is frankly stress-inducing and enough to extinguish any feelings of bliss.

There is something romantic about the idea of relaxation, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it needs to romanticised into a perfect image, such as the one above. It’s about a feeling, and not about trying to attain what you think it should look like. 

It also doesn’t mean that money needs to be thrown at the problem. I realise that may come across as a tad hypocritical, given this is an edit, and therefore essentially a buying guide. For me though, buying lotions and potions and using them is a relaxing act of self-care and I’m aware that other beauty bloggers feel the same.

This is my personal pick of relaxing buys, but remember to do what makes you happy – and more importantly, relaxed. 

I love coffee, that much I know. Wear your heart on your sleeve, or, erm, PJs with this Topshop nightie, £16. It’s wonderfully oversized – as the best PJs are – meaning maximum comfort. It seems that a new ‘revolutionary’ type of gin is released each week (salted caramel flavoured gin, no thanks), but pink gin is the one that has outlasted the hype and earned a place on our spirit shelf. This Gin Lane 1751 gin, £24.85, has a medium-sweet taste, as perfect in cocktails as it is with tonic.

Speaking of booze, have you tried an alcohol-scented candle? Me, neither, but make a start with this lush Next Home Prosecco Jar Candle, £8. Other than that, is there a scent more relaxing (and sleep-inducing) than lavender? With complimentary mint, this John Lewis candle, £10, has a burn time of 40 hours. 

Let's talk skincare. Admittedly out of my price range, I couldn't not include the Glamglow Glitter Face Mask, £44, because, well, look at it. At the lower end of the price scale, while they may evoke memories of teenage sleepovers, I've always loved face mask sachets. This Montagne Jeunesse Dead Sea Mud Mask, £1, is a delight – and a bargain. Win win. Also a winner? Soap and Glory's Face Soap and Clarity, £8. It leaves skin feeling soft, refreshed and has a delicious citrus scent.

I find nothing more relaxing than sitting back and enjoying a book in the evening, and Dolly Alderton's memoir Everything I Know About Love, £10.99, is at the top of my wishlist. For healthy hair, L'Oreal Botanicals Geranium Hair Mask, £9.99, restores dull, lacklustre hair back to excellent condition, thanks to its infusion of geranium, coconut oils and soya. And finally, no relaxation edit would be complete without socks. Let's not fight it: socks are cool, and yes, I have reached the stage where I hope I receive them for Christmas. These Monki ones, £6 are so fluffy and cosy. 

NG <3

The Sentimentality of Fashion

I have a confession: I’m a hoarder. I hold onto everything from the perfume box a Christmas gift came in to my ‘homework club’ certificate I received when I was 9 (I was a cool kid). And don’t even get me started on makeup. The palette with hues so extreme it’s named ‘Acid’ and has only been used once when I spontaneously thought I could rock a hot pink eye (I couldn’t)? I definitely need to hang onto that just in case I need it someday. Basically, I’m crap at throwing things out.

I’ve always attached sentimentality to inanimate objects. There are just some things in life that we don’t want to bid farewell to because of the emotional connection they have to past memories. But then there are the more trivial relics that are just as hard to let go of; the tacky glitter globes I bought myself when I was 10 or the beautifully designed hat box that my younger, naïve self planned to store love letters in (I clearly didn’t predict the rise of technology/ just how awkward looking a teenager I would be).

My wardrobe’s the worst culprit and I’m not alone; it’s predicted that on average a woman only wears 20% of the clothes she owns on a regular basis. It’s a staggering estimate, especially when you consider the cost of the extra 80% left hanging.

And so, long overdue a clear out, I became inspired by Carrie Bradshaw and invited my three closest friends over, popped open the Moët and made them watch me parade around in every single piece I owned while they faked enthusiasm and held up ‘take’ or ‘toss’ cards. Only joking, I can’t think of anything more boring or self-involved to make my friends do (instead I’ll just write about it and make you all read it).

I'm with Miranda

I don’t know why I’m such a hoarder but I suspect in part it’s due to some subconscious romanticism of what things were in the past or could be in the future. Take, for example, the royal purple, silk dress that I just can’t throw out. It is literally too painful to wear, no thanks to the awkward placement of sequins that scratch your arms. For this reason I’ve only worn it once. I’ll never wear it again but I still can’t throw it away. Why? Because it’s too pretty to throw in a monotonous heap of unloved clothes, I bought it on my 16th birthday and, for me, it represents the person I want to be when I rarely leave the house after 10pm: fun, sparkly and joyous.

“Clothes are much more than just cloth. It’s giving the wearer something more than a garment. It’s transferring emotion,” fashion designer Jessica Ogden once said and it’s a sentiment I fully understand. There’s a reason why our tastes and preferred pieces change over the years; we change as people and this is reflected in our lifestyle choices, particularly what we choose to wear.

Some clothes are easy to throw out because of the memories they hold: that ‘night out only’ bodycon dress that I hung on to for a little too long despite it not fitting for the best part of four years? Gone. The try-hard plaid skirt I bought on a whim when I first became editor of my student magazine after another The Devil Wears Prada re-run? So long. But, despite my impressively ruthless clear out there are some clothes that will stay in my wardrobe indefinitely.

Fashion is simultaneously obsessed with the past and the future. Every season we see a version of a ‘classic reinvented’ or the trend pages of magazines refer specifically to a decade’s archetypal style. That’s what’s so wonderful about fashion: it’s constantly innovative, challenges conventions but is also significantly influenced by the past. It looks back and moves forward: something that I believe is reflected in our own collection of clothes too.

I will never stop pining over minimalist Scandi-style interior design on Pinterest, nor will I ever stop admiring the meticulously organised wardrobe spaces in Elle’s 'Closet Confidential' pages. But sometimes the most eclectic wardrobes featured were the most fascinating to read about because of the dazzling stories behind the pieces. By contrast, I can’t claim that I wore my purple, sparkly dress to the MET gala, or that it gifted to me from my dear friend Karl Lagerfeld, but it makes me happy, and isn’t that what personal style is about after all?

Still in need of a serious declutter? Image consultant and wardrobe organiser, Lis-Marie Liden shares her tips:

Fashion is a way to identify yourself and find your own branding but it is important to know your limits. Try on a piece and ask realistically will I wear it again? Why is it still in my wardrobe? Am I saving it for a special occasion that may not come? It’s important to be ruthless if you’re wanting a clear-out. Does the piece represent who you are now? Compare it to other clothes in your wardrobe. Can they be worn together? And importantly: does it fit? It's important to invest and if you have that one piece you can't let go of due to memories and sentimental value, maybe store it in a safe place away from daily outfits.”

NG <3

Photo Credit: Emily May via Flickr.

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The Search for a Spring Jacket

The course of finding the perfect Spring jacket never did run smoothly. This is a very hard lesson I am currently learning. I feel like I should invest (if you can consider a £30 coat and investment) in a new key item for Spring; the jacket. If there is one thing I should advise it is don't have anything in mind. Now I just need to learn to take my own advice...

This Topshop biker jacket (left, £60) is a beauty. I can't resist a bit of shearling and the effortless, laid-back cut of the collar is perfect for a spot of nonchalance edge, yet the indigo wash gives it a bit of a Spring update. The problem? The price.

Again this ASOS trench coat (centre, £60) is perfect on paper; the tan colour, the sixties inspired cut, the lightweight material but it's double my budget. It's just so pretty though, I mean, do I really need that Shakespeare textbook...

This go-with-everything number from Boohoo (right, £40) is slightly more on budget. I love the relaxed style and the navy colour as an alternative to black. I must say I do love the shirt and jumper combo underneath though, maybe it's a sign this jacket is for me...

Help me out please guys; which one is your favourite?


NG <3

 

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Crazy for you

Is it really possible to beat such a wonderful item as a multi-seasonal piece? When taking these shots I originally thought that I had not posted this playsuit on the blog before but I was wrong, I actually did last July, during a heatwave. I've swapped the wedges for brogues and bare legs for tights.

 I'm wearing a New Look coat, brogues and bag, H! by Henry Holland playsuit and Primark tights.

  

Sorry I haven't posted much lately, I left my camera at home which was really annoying (these pictures were even taken on an iPhone!) but now I've retrieved it so expect more outfit posts coming your way!

 

 

NG <3

 

 

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Baby, it's (still) cold outside

I don't care what they say; it is most definitely NOT Spring in the UK. Ever since 26th December stores have been inundated with florals, pastels and macs. As much as I love a piece of the Spring pie, leaving the house without a woolly coat is simply not an option in this (so far) bitterly cold year. The sales have been, well and truly, picked over now but luckily I've managed to find a few pieces, reduced and new season that are appropriate for winter and the transition into Spring...

• Topshop Cat Umbrella, £16

An umbrella is mandatory in the UK unless you want to end up looking like a drowned rat (or cat, given the brolly?), so I love the concept of making such a boring, functional piece fun and quirky. Sure, it's a little more then what I would usually pay for an umbrella (hello Primark!) but it's just too adorable not to.

• Dorothy Perkins Check Pencil Skirt, £22

I try to avoid midi skirts at all costs given my short legs, but I must admit I am so tempted by this Dorothy Perkins beauty. I'm sure you're aware that tartan is 'a thing' this season, so if you have a particular interest in following trends this skirt is perfect, both aesthetically and for keeping you warm.

• Aldo INDU Loafers, £35 £24.98

My love affair with loafers, brogues and any footwear that looks androgynous continues. The soft, feminine colour and tassel detail contrasts with the basic shape of the shoe. Buy now, wear now.

• Carvela Kurt Geiger PAULA Boots, £195 £99

Yes they are pricey but think of them as an investment;

1. They have just under £100 off.
2. They will be great quality so will last as long as probably three pairs of cheap boots.
3. They go with EVERYTHING.

I'm sold. If only it were student loan day today and rent wasn't due...

• Boohoo Boyfriend Jeans, £25

I love the cut of these jeans and the casual-yet-sophisticated silhouette they create. Of course jeans are a winner in winter but the loose fit and light colour of these jeans make them an excellent pre-spring purchase.

• H&M Wool Blend Jacket, £34.99

The effortless way that this jacket falls is enough to convince me that this is a key, budget piece. Complementing the cut, the black and white checked pattern radiates a nonchalance rebellious attitude-perfect for crisp, winter days and cool, spring evenings.

• New Look Shirt, £14.99

As soon as I saw this I headed for the changing room and proceeded to the tills, debit card in hand. The fabric is lightweight so I wouldn't advise wearing it alone on a cold day but the sleeves can be adjusted, so you have the option to roll the sleeves up for a warmer day, making it an ideal transitional piece.

• New Look Check Print Scarf, £7.99

A scarf, come autumn, winter, spring and even summer (thank you Great British weather!), is a key piece in my wardrobe. Over the years my obsession has grown from borrowing one of my mum's scarves every so often to not being able to leave Primark or New Look without one. This scarf looks super cosy and the pattern is bold enough to brighten any simple outfit up.

• River Island Fluffy Jumper, £35 £25

I don't think I've ever seen such a toasty looking jumper as this. When you live in student housing you soon realise that the humble jumper is your best friend. I can just imagine wearing black skinny jeans and Chelsea boots with this on a cold day, and a black miniskirt come Spring.


Keep Warm!


NG <3

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Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you had a lovely, relaxing time over the festive period and are looking forward to a happy new year. I'd love to hear how you celebrated Christmas.
I wanted to share with you some of the bits I was lucky enough to receive this Christmas. Most are beauty related, and I thought it was appropriate to post seeing as NG is part beauty blog. Again, I'd love to hear what presents you kindly gave and received this December!

Soap and Glory is by far one of my favourite beauty brands so I was delighted to receive The Yule Monty gift set off my parents. It contains lots of lush beauty products that I am sure will see me through the year!

I love opening a new perfume on Christmas day and the surprise of smelling the fragrance for the first time. This year I got Taylor Swift's Enchanted Wonderstruck. I must admit, I expected the smell to be slightly more sickly but I love it! It's a fruity scent with notes of peonies and passion fruit-perfect!

I was so grateful to receive this River Island satchel. I've been after a satchel for ages and I love that this one is so compact and sleek.

Between the Soap and Glory set and other bath gifts I got, I think (hope) I will be smelling nice indeed, next year. My boyfriend's sister got me a lovely body spray and body butter set. I love the fruity fragrances.

I like my jewellery big and sparkly, so I was so happy with this emerald-coloured necklace, from my boyfriend, and this bracelet, which I think has a Moroccan look to it.

For me, there is nothing as luxurious as a long soak in the bath whilst reading a magazine. Add a face mask and some wine and it's pretty much my perfect night in.

And last, but certainly not least, say hello to Tilly, the new addition to the Gregson family. If you follow me on instagram you will know that I was blessed to be gifted this gorgeous cocker spaniel puppy from my boyfriend's family. She's settling into the family home lovely, and I have to say she's as cute as she is naughty...

It took me ages to get this picture of her-she is so energetic so it's hard to get her still. Probably the best Christmas ever!

I hope you've enjoyed this post and I haven't bored you. I am so grateful to receive the gifts that I did. I think, though, that it is always so important at Christmas to cherish the things in life that aren't material, family and love, for instance, and  to spare a thought for those who aren't as fortune as yourself.

Again, merry Christmas!

With love,

NG <3

 

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Flat Note

At 5'2", I am undeniably a 'short arse'. There is a common misconception that if you are short you must wear heels at all times, which I am totally against. Don't get me wrong, I love heels as much as a TOWIE extra, but sometimes five-inchers just aren't practical. Take, for instance, when on campus. There is no way I would make it to a 9am lecture if I was tottering around in heels. So, just in time for Christmas, I've compiled a montage of my favourite high street flats this Winter...

1. Topshop MARDI3 Metal Trim Slippers, £24.

2. Office Kitsch Cobalt Blue Suede Flats, £50.

3. New Look Black Leather-Look Lace Up Brogues, £15.99.

4. Zara Suede Leather Ballerina Pumps with Bow, £29.99.

5. Aldo KOTEN Pumps, £45.

6. Mango Tassel Slippers, £29.99.

7. Kurt Geiger LARK Black Flat Studded Loafers, £49.

NG <3

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Duck Egg

It may be my inner Blair Waldorf. Or it could possibly be my obsession with interior design on Pinterest. Whatever it is, my latest love is influenced by the wonderful world of home decor. Ever since summer I've fallen for the colour blue and its calming connotations and now my adoration has progressed even further; I want my bedroom in all its rose pink glory to be transformed into a blue haven. This is quite a drastic change for the 13 year old who swore to never have any other shade on her walls than pink (Elle Woods was my icon at the time).

My chosen shade is duck egg, a light, pastel blue. I find it so regal and when I see the shade I'm instantly reminded of Sophia Coppola's Marie Antoinette and Downton Abbey. The truth is though, seeing as I'm not actually living at home at the moment and only spend a few months a year away from my student dwelling in Nottingham, the transformation's on hold. All the more time for Pinterest inspiration I say!
So as an antidote for my craving blue, here are my top pastel blue style picks!

NG <3

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Remember Remember the Fifth of November

I hope you are all having a great bonfire night! If you're not aware what this is (I'm not sure if it is an international celebration but I'm guessing it's a UK one due to its origins) it is basically a night, at the beginning of winter, that is the anniversary of the prevention of Guy Fawkes' attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament-history lesson there for you! To be honest there's not too much history in the festivities, it's a night to get wrapped up, see some beautiful fireworks and eat some comfort food, which is always welcome for me! I'm being boring and staying in tonight but last night my housemates and I had a mini bonfire and toasted marshmallows which was really nice so I suppose I have celebrated in my own little way.

I'm wearing a New Look coat, H&M dress and blazer, Barratts boots, Boohoo bag and Primark tights, scarf and necklace.

When winter comes there's nothing as nice as a big, comfortable coat. I honestly have been wearing this one every day-it goes with everything! I suppose if there was a subconscious 'theme' behind this outfit, given the coat and the dress, which has made many an appearance on NG, it would be my most worn clothes/accessories. What a good idea to put them all together!


I hope you have a great week and stay safe and warm this bonfire night!

NG <3

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Autumnal

Autumn is by far one of my favourite times of year. I just adore the turning of the leaves; the crisp, fresh element in the air (so long as it's not too cold) and the traditions that the season brings along with it-Halloween, bonfire night etc. And Autumn fashion? It really doesn't get any better. Give a girl a nice coat and a good pair of boots and she's ready to go. Oh, I could ramble on about my love of Autumn continuously but I'll just put it into pictures instead!

I'm wearing a Primark jumper and tights, Boohoo faux fur gilet, bag and sneakers, H&M necklace and New Look skirt.

Hope you are all having a great week-only two more days until Friday!


NG <3

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What's in my Bag? University Edition

This is my third 'What's in my Bag' post. Forgive me for being a tad repetitive but I bloody love these posts! My latest offering is a peek inside my uni bag that I use day-to-day...

I love using a rucksack as I carry so much stuff and it's easy to just throw everything in and sling it over my shoulder. Mine is from Primark and I love the distressed effect the leather look gives. A few essentials in my bag that are generic to most women's bags are my phone, ipod, umbrella and a pack of Strepsils, because you never know when freshers flu might strike again!

As an English student I carry a lot of literature around with me, mostly coming from my reading list. Why do they have to make core textbooks so, so heavy? Aside from my course books I carry a notebook in case I get random inspiration and also a diary to know what I'm doing next. On the left is Impact, Nottingham Uni's student magazine which I always find a great read and handy to have in my bag for between lectures.

As a beauty blogger I like to stay looking fresh on campus but I also like a low maintenance daytime look so I only keep a few select products with me on campus. I have an oily complexion so I rely on Rimmel's Stay Matte Pressed Powder to keep shine at bay and if I have a lot of blemishes at the time I will keep a concealer with me. I adore the fruity scent of Boot's Natural Collection Wild Strawberry Body Spray for quick top ups between seminars. I have also found a new favourite in the Charles Worthington Shine Spray to give my hair a touch of oomph when it starts to look dull throughout the day. And last of all? It's all about the lips. I usually carry whatever lip gloss or lipstick I apply at the start of the day and this is the make up product that needs reapplying the most. I always find a Chapstick handy, especially in winter, just incase my lips get dry!

What is in your day-to-day bag?

Hope you've had a great weekend!


NG <3

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Unidays

Amongst all the chaos of moving back to Nottingham, freshers week and settling back into the student way of life it seems I have neglected my blog, which I do apologise for. Now I'm coming to the end of my second week I'm finally settling back into a routine and am finding the time to blog again. It really has been too long.

 I took these pictures a couple of days ago, it's a typical uni outfit for me; all about practicality and warmth with my own little touches. Basically everything I'm wearing, bar the bag which was a gift, is from New Look. I didn't even realise this until typing this post but I really do love their pieces (clearly!) and they always seem to be a great fit.

I've been getting involved in some really great projects since I've been back at uni (i.e writing as much as physically possible) so I can't wait to share these with you at a later date!

Hope you are well!


NG <3

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London Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2014

Hey all! I apologise that this is a very brief post. Usually on fashion week posts I like to give a written round up of the shows but this week I've been so busy preparing to move into my uni house that I've barely had time to watch Suburgatory. But I do love London fashion week so I did want to feature it on my blog, even if it is short. So, readers, here are my favourite London fashion week shows of the Spring/Summer '14 season...

Holly Fulton

Burberry Prorsum

Topshop Unique

Mary Katrantzou

What was your favourite show of London fashion week S/S '14?

Regretfully, I must admit that over the next week I won't be able to post as my house does not yet have wi-fi but hopefully I will fix it as soon a possible and I look forward to catching up with you all when I log back on. In the meantime, have a great week!


NG <3

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New York Fashion Week S/S 2014

Firstly, I apologise that this post is a little past its sell by date, as we are already well and truly into the swing of London fashion week. To be honest I've been typing and editing snippets of this post since fashion month began but I haven't had a chance to publish it as I've been rather busy packing up ready to move into my student house. But, late or not, New York fashion week is just too great to ignore. It's time to think about summer, about the colours that you'll be wearing, about the silhouettes that will be flattering your frame, and about the bikini that you will be sashaying around in (oh I do love a good bikini to 'sashay' in before I inevitably trip up). I am still considering what coat I will be purchasing for winter, let alone considering whether to go for a bandeau or halterneck bikini. But nevertheless, as always fashion is forward thinking so it's time to meet your future wardrobe.
Here are my top five shows of New York fashion week S/S '14...

Jenny Packham

Expectations are high when you count Kate Middleton as regular clientele. Jenny Packham is acclaimed for her breathtaking ballgowns but this season Packham gave her designs a retro spin with heavy influence from the 70s. But we're not talking peace signs and bell bottoms-we're talking Packham's grown-up, glamorous take on the 70s. More Studio 54 than Abba. The colour was focused on deep sapphire, sunshine yellow, pastel blue and earthy neutrals. The hair? Big. Hairspray is your best friend. Jenny Packham, I salute you, after all isn't life always better when you're walking on the sunshine?

Kate Spade

I have a confession; at heart I am undoubtedly a prep. Give me plaid, pink and peep toes and my inner Blair Waldorf is ecstatic. So it won't come as a surprise that I adored Kate Spade's S/S '14 show in all its candy crush hued creations. As fabulous as it was varied, Spade had all bases covered from 60s style shift dresses to the ultimate in laid-back chic; a pair of jeans splattered with every hue imaginable. So who is the Kate Spade girl this season? Well aside from a mandatory top knot and a bloody good bag it's all about ladylike glamour. If you can say yes to the question 'would Audrey Hepburn/ Sophia Loren/ Grace Kelly wear it', then buy it, and buy it preferably in the brightest colour available.

Jason Wu

A sure antidote to the vivid hues of Kate Spade and the whimsical delights of Jenny Packham? Enter Jason Wu. Colour was sparse, spare navy blue and gold but the prominent palette of Wu's show was monochrome; oh no, it's going anywhere and rightly so! But Wu added a fresh spin with innocent gingham, given an edge with sharp, structured cuts and unexpected details (note the strip across the chest area on the second outfit). The Wu girl is all about modernity; sleek, practical and powerful and the hair and makeup echo this.

Victoria Beckham

No designer quite masters office dressing like Victoria Beckham, and this isn't just a white shirt and black skirt. The key silhouette of Beckham's show was the flippy, skater skirt, in all its glorious, fabulous form. The fun, not to mention ridiculously flattering, skater is juxtaposed with crisp shirts and structured jumpers. But the fun doesn't end with a flared hemline, Beckham adds a twist with intense colours to brighten up the look. And what power dresser doesn't love hot pink?

Tory Burch

Ah, Tory Burch. How I do love your oh-so-sweet S/S '14 presentation. Any show that mixes lilacs, metallics and basket of flowers is fine by me.  I don't know whether it's the florals or the sorbet shades but this show has a whimsical, ethereal quality to it. How to offset such an angelic wardrobe? Mix it up with soft, flowing sex-bomb hair and earthy 'english rose' makeup.  Make the most of tartan this season while you still can.


What were your favourite shows of S/S 2014 in New York?


NG <3

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Date Night

Last night I cooked a meal. Well, I use the term 'cook' very loosely but I did put said dish in the oven so I suppose I can say I cooked a meal on a technicality. The truth in the matter is that I am a terrible cook, I think I blame my dad. He is somewhat of a culinary whizz and so I've never really had to fend for myself. Luckily I just sit down and await whatever Provincial dish is on the line up that day. I was lucky enough last year to be in catered halls at uni therefore food was not a worry. But next year? I'm living in my own house so unless I want to survive solely of tinned soup and the occasional pasta when the mood takes me, I need to start cooking. But last night was important, so last night wasn't the night to start.

Photo from my instagram @natashagregson

My boyfriend's birthday is coming up this week and my parents were away so I decided to throw a romantic 4-course dinner for him and I wanted everything to be perfect, so me cooking wasn't on the agenda for the night. The menu is was as follows;

Pre-meal nibbles; Ciabatta bread with an olive oil dip and cherry tomatoes. It was due to be served with balsamic vinegar also but the clever little chef I am I didn't check that we had any in the cupboard until five minutes before he arrived *FAIL NUMBER ONE*.

Starter; Lobster Bisque served with seeded bread rolls. Thanks the heavens for Baxter's tinned soup, the fact that I laughed when telling him what ingredients I put into the bisque kind of  gave my faux attempt away *FAIL NUMBER TWO*.

Main; Catalan chicken with potato wedges, with help from Sainsbury's bistro ready prepared meals. I nearly got away with it until he heard me popping the film lid *FAIL NUMBER THREE*.

Dessert; Chocolate souffle. Ok, it was fairly simple; remove the packaging and place the pot on the table but surprisingly *NO FAIL HERE*.

Onto the outfit of the night. In the tradition of sticking with fail-safe options for the night I went for a classic LBD.

The dress is from Boohoo, I believe it was only £15, and it's named 'Natasha'. Yes, that was partly the reason for my purchase. The picture isn't amazing quality but I only had limited time to take a few pictures before my boyfriend arrived. In terms of jewellery I opted for classic, delicate styles in silver to complement the dress. The necklace is by Jon Richard, the bracelet's a gift and the earrings were from Primark.

The hair and make-up was also fairly simple. I quickly curled my hair and ran serum though the ends before spraying hairspray on. Make-up wise I wore a slick of liquid eyeliner, slightly thickening the line above the lashes before applying a few coats of mascara and a layer of red lipstick on lips, although it looks pink on the picture!

I hope you are having a great weekend! I'd love to hear what have you been up to so far?


NG <3

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