O U T F I T | Woodstock

26 April, 2015
New Look 70's Boho Outfit
New Look 70's Boho Outfit
New Look 70's Boho Outfit
New Look 70's Boho Outfit
New Look 70's Boho Outfit
New Look 70's Boho Outfit
New Look 70's Boho Outfit
New Look 70's Boho Outfit
Dress: New Look // Jacket: New Look // Bag*: c/o marc b. //
Headband: River Island // Necklace: Forever 21 //
Boots: Vagabond

A little while back I attended a little blogger breakfast event hosted by New Look in their flagship Oxford Circus store. During the event we were generously given a whopping 50% off of everything in-store! I was the poorest little peasant in all the land at the time as I was awaiting the start of my new job, but I just couldn't leave empty handed, especially as New Look's 70's trend is on top form right now. I came away from the New Look SS15 event with this tan suede fringed jacket and maxi dress (and a bra, and a necklace...), which seem to work pretty well together.

Recently, I've been on the hunt for a suitable and practical day-to-day bag to take to work. I'm really particular with bags as they have to be exactly the right size, have the right fastening and the strap has to be at least a certain length! The hunt has been impossible, I tell you. As if by magic, marc b came to my rescue and offered me a bag from their latest SS15 collection. Like a child, I'm usually drawn to prints and colours, but this time I decided it was probably better to opt for a more simple bag that would compliment any outfit.

I decided upon their Roxy satchel, which is made from a rather lovely faux, tumbled leather. Upon receiving it, at first I actually thought it was real leather. Faux leathers sometimes have an almost plastic quality to them, but this one is deceivingly soft. It also has a zip-up fastening beneath the lid, which is perfect for someone like me who is obsessively checks their bag every 10 minutes to make sure their phone hasn't been pick-pocketed and stolen. I'll blame obsessive habit on growing up in London.

The only fault I've found with it is that unfortunately one of the magnets that keeps the lid secure has come away and has fallen to the bottom of the bag after only a week's worth of use. I'm assuming it's only an individual fault with my bag, rather than a manufacturing fault as it's such a little thing. However, it doesn't stop the bag from functioning and it doesn't affect the appearance at all, so it's not the end of the world. Overall, it's exactly what I was looking for and I've been using it every day since it first arrived, so thank YOU marc b.

SHOP THE POST:


BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

8

W I S H L I S T | Alice McCall at Avenue 32

24 April, 2015
All available at Avenue 32

There's nothing I that feeds my procrastination levels more than devilishly window shopping online for garms my purse would weep at! My recently online shopping venture led to the discovery of Alice McCall at Avenue 32 who has created the most whimsical collection that has my heart in a flurry. I mean, LOOK at that denim jumpsuit!

London born Aussie designer, Alice McCall appeared onto the scene back in 2004 and has picked up big name fans including Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, Alexa Chung and Queen Kate Moss, herself. If it's good enough for Mossy, it's good enough for me!



What's most striking about the pieces available at Avenue 32 is the fun the young designer has clearly had incorporating bold yet feminine abstract prints combined with the  strong, silhouettes of the garments. It was pretty darn difficult to narrow it down to my favourites as I genuinely enjoy every piece in the collection.

The first three items featured: the denim jumpsuit, the folksy dress and the high-waisted denim shorts are pieces that I could easily incorporate into my everyday wardrobe. The second lot are a bit more fantastical that I could only dream of owning; that middle pastel blue jumpsuit is calling my name!

What do you think of my Alice McCall picks?

BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM
Disclaimer: This was a sponsored post written in collaboration with Avenue 32, but was entirely written by myself & all views are honest.
4

O U T F I T | Double Denim

23 April, 2015
70's Double Denim
70's Double Denim
70's Double Denim

Jacket: Vintage // Jumper*: c/o Sugarhill Boutique // Belt: Vintage//
Flares: Charity Shop // Trainers: Adidas x Pharrell Williams Supercolors
This isn't the first time I've indulged in devilish double denim on this blog. Let's take a trip back in time to 2012 when I donned a denim shorts and shirt combo... 
The DD, and we're not talking about boobs here, is back with a bang this season. That's right, the ultimate don't has become the ultimate DO! I chanced across these fantastical, perfect, high-waisted 70's flares in a charity shop for just £3. Believe it or not, they're actually originally from Primark! I'm almost certain they are past season as I've not seen this flared cut in-store recently. I'm ridiculously tempted to sew some patches on to add that extra seventies sass!
This cute-as-a-button, pastel striped, heart motif sweater is another little number from Sugarhill Boutique's SS15 range. It's a little girly compared to my usual picks, but I have been attempting my style icon of the moment - Jackie Burkhart. WHAT A BABE.
BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

10

R E V I E W | Joshua James Jewellery: Thomas Sabo Sun Pendant

21 April, 2015
Thomas Sabo Sun Pendant
Thomas Sabo Sun Pendant
Gold Sun Pendant*: Thomas Sabo via Joshua James

I've spoken before about how picky I am when it comes to jewellery. I'm probably the most awkward gal to surprise with jewellery in the world.

However, I have fallen completely head over heels for this gold pendant sent to me from the wonderful team at Joshua James Jewellery. My obsession with celestial design is probably apparent from selection of props I had to hand here, so you can understand how over the moon (COMEDY GENIUS!) I was when the pendant arrived.

Now, I'm not even usually a fan of gold jewellery... unless it's rose gold. But, this sun pendant just would not have the same impact if it were silver or even tinted rose gold! I've got to confess most of my jewellery collection is actually 'costume jewellery' - cheers Primark, Topshop & various market stalls! So, it's really nice to own a luxurious piece that I have utterly fallen in love with. This could be the first of many Thomas Sabo pieces to have a home in my jewellery box.. well, a girl can dream!

Unfortunately I haven't yet had the chance to shop for a gold chain to wear it, so it's been sat on my side taunting me. As soon as I do manage to find the perfect gold chain to match it I'm sure it'll become a permanent statement piece for many years to come.

You can find the pendant here. What do you think of this Thomas Sabo pendant?


BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

0

O U T F I T | Rainbow Crochet Dreamcoat

19 April, 2015
Rainbow Topshop Crochet Jacket
Rainbow Topshop Crochet Jacket
Rainbow Topshop Crochet Jacket
Rainbow Topshop Crochet Jacket
Rainbow Topshop Crochet Jacket
Rainbow Topshop Crochet Jacket
Rainbow Topshop Crochet Jacket
Rainbow Topshop Crochet Jacket
Rainbow Topshop Crochet Jacket
Rainbow Topshop Crochet Jacket
Rainbow Topshop Crochet Jacket
Bandana: Zara // Bralet (underneath): Topshop//
Jeans: Primark // Boots: Vagabond

This is absolutely my favourite outfit right now.

I was waiting for what seemed like forever for this suede patchwork jacket to drop in Topshop. The toughest decision I've ever had to make it choosing between the rainbow and the tan. Initially, I was completely set on the tan version (available here) until I saw this multicoloured dreamcoat IRL. Although the tan is a lot easier to wear on a daily basis, I just cannot say no to a bit of multicolour! If they were not a painful £75 a piece, both colours would have no doubt come home with me.

This crochet dress is a part of the H&M x Coachella collection. I couldn't track it down anywhere in London, but managed to nab it in the Southampton store last week. The collection is incredibly affordable as this only set me back £14.99! Anything that echoes a festival influence is a winner with me.

Now I'm living back in Southampton, I've recruited James as a part-time blog photographer - cheers buddy! He demanded I furthermore credit him in all future blog posts for his ace photog skills, which are actually kinda shaping up! When I asked where I should link to as, he said his Twitter, so go follow him on Twitter here to shut him up.

SHOP THE POST:





BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

6

O U T F I T | Monki-in' Around

17 April, 2015
Jacket: Vintage // Dress: Monki // Hat: Vintage // Boots: Zara

This dress cost me a FIVER. Well, technically it cost James a fiver. Five pounds well spent, I say!

The Levi's denim flight jacket was another barg and set me back only a tenner at a little vintage shop in Southampton called Beatnik Emporium. If you're ever in town it's worth popping by as it's only a short walk from the high street and is a fraction of the price compared to vintage digs in London.

I've officially left London now; it's both sad and exciting all at once!

SHOP THE POST:





BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

4

P R E V I E W | Superdry AW15 Press Day

15 April, 2015
Superdry AW15 collection Ham Yard Hotel
Superdry AW15 collection
Superdry AW15 collection
Superdry AW15 collection
Some images above were supplied by Superdry

A few weeks ago I headed to the Superdry AW15 press preview evening at the Ham Yard Hotel. The event itself was actually held in the bowling alley within the hotel itself, so I was pretty excited as soon as the invite had landed in my inbox as I do enjoy a spot of bowling! 

Superdry absolutely nailed the venue for their event as I found myself in awe at every single turning inside the Ham Yard. I mean, the place even has it's own cinema too! Each lobby, bar and function room looked completely different from the next as they all boasted their own theme.

Upon arrival we were greeted with champagne and personally taken through each collection that's due to hit Superdry stores in the early autumn. Womenswear trends included 'Twilight, Winter Boho, Après and Wind Active, ranging from embellishment and sequins to dipped denim, textured knits and fur trimmed gilets'.

Superdry AW15

Whilst on the men's side of things 'capsules included Tailoring, Mountain, Military and Classics, showcasing sharply cut sartorial outerwear, retro athletic wear and striking down-filled jackets'. I was rather taken by an ice-white leather biker jacket with a detachable black faux fur that was on display that night.

After getting a run through of the collection we eagerly hit the bowling lanes! Fuelled on by the bubbly, a heated competition began between the girls and the boys. Now I don't mean to brag, but I'm pretty much a bowling superstar, didn't you know? Well, maybe I've bigged up myself more than I deserve, but I definitely acquire some sort of bowling magic when I've had a drink.

The night also saw the exciting announcement of the Superdry Blogger Network, which I'm pretty damn excited to be a part of! I've mentioned before that I have a bit of a soft spot for Superdry so I'm looking forward to seeing what opportunities the network brings!

I'm hoping for more bowling tournaments, personally...

BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM
0

F E S T I V A L S | How to Get Glastonbury Tickets Tips & Tricks

13 April, 2015
Glastonbury Festival View

There's no festival on Earth (that I've yet encountered) that is quite like Glastonbury Festival

Located in the green depths of Somerset in a little quaint town called Pilton the festival sets the whole area a light for five days straight every June (apart from it's rest period every few years - the cows need their turf back don'tcha know?). I'm not overly experienced when it comes to festival experiences, but I've been to a fair share located within the UK. Glastonbury has a magic and aura about it that I haven't quite found anywhere else.

When and what is the ticket re-sale?

Now that time anticipated time is-a-creeping up on us all that may have missed out on tickets back in October. The Glastonbury ticket re-sale is about to commence. For those who for some reason or another have now decided to forfeit their tickets will now be re-sold, giving wannabe Glasto-goers a second pop at scoring themselves a place at Worthy Farm.

Coach package re-sale tickets will be up for grabs on Thursday 16th April, whilst standard festival tickets will be re-sold on Sunday 19th April.

If you've never attempted to nab yourself tickets to Glastonbury you'll know it can be an absolute nightmare.

What are the chances of getting a ticket in the re-sale?

I'm not going to pretend I'm a Glastonbury go-getting ticket wizard and I cannot promise that all of these tips and tricks will guarantee you a ticket.

Unfortunately there is no dead set certain way to score yourself a place at Worthy Farm, but I aim to pass on all the knowledge I have gathered over the years. I've had a few successful years and one not so successful year in where my Twitter following heard my wrath and distraught for months on end. However, upon looking back at that year I know exactly why getting a ticket was not in my favour and have since learned from it.

It's important to realise that only a tiny fraction of the tickets are re-sold in the spring compared to the initial sale in the autumn. But, this still doesn't mean it's impossible!

Glastonbury Festival Girl


How much £££ is the best festival ever (Glastonbury) gonna set me back?

Tickets are £220 + £5 booking fee, which is a pretty bog standard big name festival price. There's a small postage fee on top of this which is £7.50.  So in total, a neat £232.50.

Usually if you manage to score your tickets in the initial October sale you only have to put down a £50 deposit to secure your place before the line-up is announced. However, if you're looking to buy in the re-sale then you'll have to pay this fee all in one big hit. You can book up to 4 tickets per transaction, but make sure you have your pals' registration numbers and post codes at the ready as these are essential when booking tickets.

Also, it's important to point out that UK buyers can only purchase tickets on a debit card, NOT a credit card.

Preparation before the Glastonbury resale ticket scramble:

First thing's first, get the kettle on and a cup of coffee beside you as you are about to encounter the most stressful 30 minutes of your entire life. In fact, leave the coffee. Pour yourself a glass of wine. 9am?! Who cares? Plus, dependent on whether you get your tickets or not you can celebrate or drown your sorrows all before breakfast on a Sunday *high-five*!

Have your set-up GET GLASTO TICKETS OPERATION set-up before 9am. I've found a few times in the past that tickets have sneakily gone on sale at 8:55am, which has led to me breezing through the ticket system. You never know if this stroke of luck could happen again!

Also, please make sure you have enough money in your bank account for the ticket(s) before you dedicate a lot of stress and hard work into entering the ticket scramble. I know it goes without saying, but I bet it happens to someone, somewhere out there. Remember, that's £232.50 per ticket per person.


Glastonbury Festival

Laptops, desktops, phone, tablets, smart watches, etc. at the ready!

Multiple devices are a MUST. I usually set up an operation in my living room with at least two laptops, two phones and one tablet. If you have access to even more internet accessible devices then even better! I can't say I know much about smart watches, but if you have one then put it to good use!

The year I lost out on tickets I did have this set-up, so it doesn't always guarantee success. However, I was battling with a shoddy student house internet speed crying into my keyboard. So, MAKE SURE YOU'RE USING A DECENT INTERNET PROVIDER. If you have an ethernet cable for your laptop(s), then even better!

Concerning your phones/tablets/smart watches disconnect from your wi-fi and use your 3G/4G. Obviously 4G will work a hella alot better and it'll also not slow down the wi-fi connection for your laptops.

Also, if you can recruit a partner, buddy or mother to help you out then make the most of them!

Look to Twitter for moral support!

Keep another tab open for Twitter under hashtag search for #Glastonbury/#Glasto/#GlastoTickets, etc. When it looks like that loading page is going no where, it's good to look to Twitter to find thousands of other are in the same position - YOU ARE NOT ALONE! It also gives you a good idea if there are any technical problems going down on SeeTickets if no one tweets "OMG GOT GLASTO TIX U GUYZ XOXO'. If there's no one celebratory tweeting their Glasto success then the tickets are still available!

The ticket scramble begins...


If you see this page, DON'T YOU DARE BLOODY CLICK OFF OF IT! Seriously.

Also if you end up with a white blank page with an indication that something is still loading, even if it has not changed for the past 20 minutes, DO NOT REFRESH IT OR CANCEL THAT PAGE. This has been my gateway to success in the past. That blank white, hopeless page after 20 minutes has suddenly landed on a booking page!

The official Glastonbury website recommends you do not open multiple tabs. But, I always do. I've never found it's affected my purchasing in any way. Also, I always use at least two internet browsers per device: Google Chrome & Mozilla Firefox. If you're still using Internet Explorer, sort your shit - seriously!

If 2015 isn't your year and you were one of the unlucky ones (we've all been there - I missed out in 2014), then there are other ways you can shimmy yourself into the festival. You can volunteer with a number of charities or companies through Festaff, where you can trade a few hours of your day for a ticket.

For those of you that are fighting to the death in the ticket re-sale this week, I salute you and wish you the best of luck! Do let me know if you do manage to get yourself a ticket and I'll see you on Worthy Farm!

Links you will need:

BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

2

R E V I E W | Slimming Solutions Tea-tox

09 April, 2015

14 Day Tea-tox*: c/o Slimming Solutions

It seems like everyone and their mother is on a tea-tox detox. The fad appeared on the scene at some point last year and now it's hard to for a day to go by without someone snapping a picture of their delivery of detox teabags riddled with promises of weight loss. Ultimately, the world has gone tea-tox crazy.

Wanting to see what all the fuss is about, I could not turn down an opportunity to try out a fortnight's supply of Slimming Solution's very own tea-tox. Also, I absolutely love herbal tea. I'll be honest, I didn't expect much from it. I was a tea-tox skeptic.

Slimming Solution's tea-tox essentially works like every other tea-tox available out there. There are two types of tea bags: morning tea and evening tea. You are supplied with 14 morning tea bags and just 7 evening tea bags. The morning tea is supposed to be drank daily as soon as you wake up, whilst the evening tea is supposed to be consumed every other day. On the website it claims to remove unwanted toxins and burn fat from your body.

My first impression of the tea was the overwhelming scent when I first opened the bag. Both the morning and evening blend are both reminiscent of liquorice and I HATE liquorice! The scent automatically put me off, however I simply added a fresh slice of lemon in the hope it would disguise the taste. I cannot comment on the taste of the blend without the added lemon as I haven't tried it, but when you read up on other reviews I think it's safe to say it's a taste you would have to train yourself to get used to, just like with standard green tea or raw matcha tea. However, with a lemon slice popped in I have to say I rather enjoyed the taste of it, but then I am a regular herbal tea drinker.

Now there's a lot of talk and worry about the tea-tox evening blends due to their laxative effects. Essentially, this laxative effect is the toxins being flushed from your body (TMI, soz). I can't say I noticed any particular excessive laxative effect, but then again I suffer pretty severely with IBS (TMI x2), which essentially means my digestive system is a royal mess and refuses to digest most things. I have a combined case of IBS, which means if I'm I flit between either 'going' all the time or 'not going' at all. Basically, it's a real pain in the arse (PUN DEFINITELY INTENDED).

HOWEVER... I did notice the tea-tox had a tremendous effect on reducing bloating, which is something I suffer with on a daily basis. It is the bane of my life. I wake up absolutely fine, then I take one bite of granola and BOOM! Like an allergic reaction my stomach inflates like a balloon. I'm constantly questioning whether food baby or real baby on a daily basis whilst grimacing at my protruding stomach.

I've got to confess, I didn't follow this tea-tox plan as strict as you're supposed too. I would always have my morning coffee before my morning blend and I kept forgetting it on some days. I managed a good 7-day streak at one point and although at first I wasn't convinced by the tea-tox fad, my mind has now well and truly been swayed. Despite not adhering to a strict routine, I still found it made such a difference with my daily bloating that it's worth it for that alone! Also, I found during my 7-day streak my skin cleared up rather nicely.

The only downfall with tea-toxes is the price as they usually retail around £30-40 for a month's supply. However, Slimming Solutions are running a BOGOF throughout the whole of April so you can get a month's supply for just £19.99. You can purchase the tea-tox here.

Have you tried a tea-tox before? What were your results?

BLOGLOVIN' | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM
5
© Leigh Travers 2012. Powered by Blogger.