007 For Women Eau De Parfum

Recently I was lucky enough to receive the new 007 For Women Eau De Parfum to try and review. 

The fragrance is inspired by "iconic women found in Bond's seductive and daring world" and it's meant to be a dangerously seductive fragrance with its unique mix of ingredients that blend femininity with mystery which results in a modern interpretation of an oriental fragrance. 

The top notes of 007 For Women comprise black pepper and rose milk, heart notes are blackberry and white floral jasmine and base notes are vanilla, white musk and cedar wood. The bottle is meant to resemble a woman's décolletage and at the same time the opening sequence of Bond's films with the black and white transitions. 

I think this is a really nice fragrance, I especially like it upon first spray and the first few minutes of wear as I can perceive a light fruity smell coming from the blackberry notes. I'm not the biggest fan of the woody & musky base notes but that's just personal preference. I find that 007 For Women is a light and feminine fragrance that can be worn day and night but unfortunately isn't very long lasting on me.

Find 007 For Women EDP* in Boots (currently with a free gift).

xo

Wool & Leather

Mohair Jumper: H&M // Leather Shopper: Rowallan // Wool Trousers: H&M // Trainers: Adidas

(Similar: Jumper, Bag, Trousers)

Not a very spring-like outfit as it's still very cold outside. 

I have 2 weeks off for Easter Holidays! One of the benefits of working in a school. One of the girls today said to me "daddy is at work" and I said "I'm at work" to which she laughed and replied "you're not at work, you're at pre-school!". Thought that was funny haha. 

On a sad note I got a bit of a cold and funny knee, just in time for holidays, great ;( 

Have a nice weekend!

xo

Beating Lower Back Pain

An estimated 80% of UK adults will experience back pain within their lifetime[i] and the affliction has widespread social repercussions, including social isolation, withdrawal and damaged relationships[ii].

Most people’s long term lower back pain is described as ‘non specific’, this occurs when the pain doesn’t arise from any particular medical condition, for example a known disease, fracture, malignancy or slipped disc etc, but from the structures of the back. It is usually triggered by how we use and look after our backs, and many common lifestyle practices can exacerbate the problem.

Chiropractor Dr Steven Geanopulos gives advice on how to help alleviate this form of long term back pain:

Keep Moving

Lack of regular movement can contribute to issues with the spine and degeneration of spinal joints, so physical activity in the form of regular exercise is essential to care for the back. Controlled movement of the spine can also help those suffering from long term non specific lower back pain; a recent study suggests that a device called Kyrobak (www.kyrobak.co.uk) -which delivers a unique, soothing combination of Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) and Oscillation Therapy (OT) - significantly reduced pain scores in long term non specific lower back pain sufferers after just 10 minutes of use 1-3 times per day for 3 weeks.

De-stress

Prolonged stress can lead to exacerbations of pain due to the release of the hormone cortisol and increases in muscle tension. Mental stresses are often best dealt with by addressing state of mind, and meditation – or simply periods of quiet reflection- can help with this. Engaging in activities such as yoga and Pilates which have been shown to help with stress and anxiety are also positive steps to take.  

Watch your weight

Ongoing poor nutritional choices and carrying excess weight can damage health long term, and contribute to exacerbations of inflammation and lower back pain. Maintaining a healthy weight is therefore key. Opting for a  nutritious, well balanced diet and eating  small, healthy meals and snacks on a regular basis can mean you are less likely to let extreme hunger dictate what you eat, helping to avoid the high calorie, high sugar options which lead to weight gain.

[i] Palmer KT, Walsh K, et al. Back pain in Britain: comparison of two prevalence surveys at an interval of 10 years. BMJ 2000;320:1577-1578

[ii] Froud R, Patterson S, Eldridge S, Seale C, Pincus T, Rajendran D, Fossum C, Underwood M (2014) A systemtic review and meta synthesis of the impact of lower back pain on people’s lives. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 15:50 doi:  10.1186/1471-2474-15-50. *Sponsored post. Photo: Sergio Kurhajec.

xo

Bedside Beauty Essentials

Being a skincare fan, my routine can be a bit longer than others' and it even extends beyond the bathroom area. Next to my bed I like to keep a little container with a hand cream, lip balm and eye cream to apply just before going to bed. 

The winter saw me using these 3 products as part of my night time beauty routine:

Neal's Yard Geranium and Orange Hand Cream: This hand cream came as a freebie with a magazine some months ago. It has a rich consistency that moisturises well and absorbs faster than the Bee Lovely version, which I liked. Something I didn't really love was the scent, which is very heavy geranium based. In the end the scent grew into me but I don't think I would actually purchase it. 

Botanics 80% Organic Hydrating Eye Cream: This eye cream has a super light texture and is quite hydrating but can't really comment on its ability to reduce fine lines. It's ok if you're looking for an organic eye cream but I don't think I'll be coming back to this product either. 

Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Moisturising Stick: I was actually very excited to try this as I'm a big fan of lip balms and this was my first Nuxe product. I wasn't disappointed, even though at first it looks very waxy, it melts just enough against the warmth of your lips and moisturises beautifully, as well as smelling gorgeous. Dry skin is diminished if not completely gone from the first couple of uses. Glad I bought a 2 pack. Would definitely buy again.

What are your bedside beauty essentials? 

xo

Black on Black

Cardigan: Primark // Top: H&M // Boots: Topshop // Trousers: H&M

(Similar: Cardigan, Top, Boots, Trousers)

I was in every day at work this week and it was intense. I was asked to make snack for the first time yesterday afternoon and then again today morning and afternoon. Good news though: I'll have 2 weeks off for Easter!

xo

L'oreal Studio Silk & Gloss Hot Straight Spray and Cream

I always feel the need to condition and protect my hair and have all types of products for that: heat protecting, serums, oils, styling creams, etc. Quite a while ago (I believe they've changed the packaging now) I purchased the L'oreal Studio Silk & Gloss Hot Straight Spray and Cream on offer, and even though I don't apply heat all the time to my hair, I like to have protecting products just in case I do. 

L'oreal Studio Silk & Gloss Hot Straight Spray and Cream are meant to leave your hair with a glossy shine and silky touch, protecting your hair against heated tools and leaving it smooth and frizz fee for 24 and 48 hours respectively.

Normally I use the cream when blow drying my hair and the spray when I use a flat iron. Both products are slightly scented, very lightweight and easy to work with. I must say that my hair does feel really soft and looks very shiny after using them along styling tools.

Find L'oreal Studio Silk & Gloss Hot Straight Spray and Cream in Superdrug (currently better than half price) and in Boots.

Have you tried these products?

xo

New In: February 2015

Suede boots from Topshop that I got for just £10 (seen them before at my local Topshop but they didn't have my size, but a tiny 3 UK, so when I found them in Lakeside I had to get them). Also got some suede protecting spray, a new eye cream from the L'oreal Skin Perfection range and a couple of free bits from L'Occitane. 

Some dark chocolate from Aldi, which is actually really good, a set of notebooks and a candy jar from the pound shop. 

And last but not least, mini fine liners from the pound shop, Palmer's eye cream, Skin, Hair & Nail vitamins and one of the new Bourjois lip crayons in Proudly Naked. 

xo

Evening Dresses at IHomecoming

Homecoming is such an important celebration on many student's lives, which is why you want to look your best on this memorable occasion. At IHomecoming you can find cheap homecoming dresses as well as dresses for any event, be it prom, evening party, cocktail, wedding & bridesmaid and even quinceañera. 

   

Above are a couple of my favourites, as you can see they are beautiful and elegant evening gowns that will make you stand out wherever you go. As spring is finally here, I would go for any of these pastel dresses. Also, since the weather is not quite as warm yet, a longer length will keep you cosy if it decides to start getting cold later during the evening. 

The dress on the left is a bit of a hybrid between a Grecian style as well as a wrap dress. Featuring a v shaped neckline that overlaps slightly on one side, it looks very flattering as it goes in at the waist which is highlighted by a charming beaded sash. The same embellishment can be seen  as an extra detail on the shoulder, which adds a bit of sparkle and spares you the need to add much more jewellery. This dress is not very fitted so it conceals any areas that you don't want to show, as it skims over the body with slight texture on the lovely pink fabric and a flowy skirt. 

The right dress comes in a pale peach shade that would look amazing against darker skin tones. The bodice has a sweetheart neckline and a ruched texture to add contrast against the simple but beautiful floor length skirt. It doesn't have a sash or any sparkly elements as the pink dress but it does feature a string of beautiful ruffled flowers along one shoulder for added femininity.

Find more elegant evening dresses on http://www.ihomecoming.com/elegant-c104258/

This is a sponsored post. 

xo

New Hair

Jacket: Berghaus* // Jumper: H&M // Jeans: Topshop // Boots: Topshop

(Similar: Jumper, Boots)

Finally some pictures with my new hair! Took a while but here they are. On a different note: it's Friday and I've also noticed the weather getting a little bit better. Can't wait for it to get warmer. Have a nice weekend everyone!

xo

John Frieda Full Repair Oil Elixir

Last year I received (almost) the full collection in the John Frieda Full Repair range, including the Oil Elixir. This product claims to reverse the look and feel of damaged hair with every use, as well as smoothing, adding shine and strengthening hair. It advises to use only 1 pump on wet or damp hair for strength and smoothness. To tame flyaways and add shine simply apply a few drops to dry hair, avoiding the roots. 

I normally used about 5 to 6 pumps before I had my hair cut, now I dispense about 4 pumps, rub my hands together and comb through my hair with fingers, and any residue left on my hands I use to smooth from mid lengths to ends. 

What I like about the John Frieda Full Repair Oil Elixir is that it adds shine and makes my hair feel super soft, as well as being very light, so it doesn't weigh my hair down at all. Do try it if you are looking for a softening, smoothing and lightweight oil.

Find John Frieda Full Repair Oil Elixir* in Boots and Superdrug.

xo

Picking the Right Shoes for the Occasion

We've all been there: special occasion coming up (birthday party, wedding, new year) and we have our outfit almost ready, except for one thing: the shoes. Let's face it, the shoes can make or break your outfit so it's important to choose wisely: a pair of stiletto heel shoes can make you look so much taller and elongate your legs while stylising your figure and elevating your outfit, no matter what you are wearing. 

You can do stilettos online shopping so easily now with so many sites available everywhere, but at Shoespie www.shoespie.com they have lots of different styles to suit every taste. My favourite picks from the site are the following:

    

The left pair caters to my more feminine side: gorgeous velvety suede texture and a pair of oversized bows sitting right next to the ankles, these shoes are girly paradise. The pair of shoes on the right remind me very much of the Valentino Rockstud shoes, but with extra studs on the toe area, which are a very rock n roll touch and can be dressed up or down. I chose both pairs of these very unique stiletto heels http://www.shoespie.com/shoesbox/Unique-Stilettos-Heels in red as I feel they add a pop of colour to the plainest of outfits very easily. 

If you are looking for stylish and cheap heels have a look on http://www.shoespie.com/C/Stiletto-Heels-101409/.

This is a sponsored post. 

xo

Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Pastel Hand Tied Bouquet £45  //  Tea & Bubbles £43 //  Pearls of Love Necklace £38 //  Thierry Mugler EDP Set £37.49  //  Thank You Beauty Box £10

It's mother's day this weekend so here are a few suggestions to spoil her. Whether she likes flowers, has a sweet tooth, loves a bit of bling or is a fan of gorgeous scents, there's something for everyone.

xo

Change Your Look With UU Hair Extensions

Sometimes we feel the need to make some changes, it can be at home, our lifestyle or the way we look. An easy way to change our look is doing something new with our hair, but it can be scary getting a haircut or coloring it and ending up hating it. Luckily it needn't be a permanent change with the use of hair extensions. 

The great thing about hair extensions is that you can use them to add a pop of colour to your overall style, or a subtle change in the case of an ombre look without recurring to hair dyes. Another thing you can do with them is add some volume if you suffer from thin hair or add length if you can't wait for your hair to grow out - be it for an important event or just for every day. You could even get a quick fix for a hair cut gone wrong. All of this without doing any damage to your real hair by avoiding the use of chemicals or heat.

        

 

At UU Hair Extensions they have a wide variety of clip in hair extensions, which are very convenient and easy to use, and they come in a wide array of styles, lengths and colours. My favourites are the ones shown above, as I really like the look of long dark hair so I would go for straight hair extensions. Let me know if you've tried hair extensions before in the comments.

Find more ideas and styles on UU Hair Extensions.

This is a sponsored post.

xo

Suede Buckle Boots

Sweatshirt: American Apparel // Trousers: H&M // Suede Boots: Topshop // Cashmere Scarf: H&M

(Similar: Trousers, Boots)

Ok, I thought the previous outfit I uploaded was the last with my old hair but it wasn't ha. But this one definitely is, I checked. I was watching gossip girl and this song came up, I instantly liked it and had to look it up. After a little research I found out it's by one of Conor Oberst's many projects (at first I thought it sounded like him... turns out it was him) 

This weekend we are going to the cinema to watch chappie. What will you be doing this weekend? 

xo

Peter Doherty at Brixton Jamm

On Monday last week we went to see Peter Doherty play at the Brixton Jamm. It was one of 4 shows (he played 2 on Sunday and 2 more on Monday). We attended the 1st Monday set, which started about 8pm.

He played one of my favourite songs of his, Lost Art of Murder, as well as a couple of other Babyshambles and Libertines songs, including Delivery and What Katie Did. And of course, he played songs from his solo album too.

This time he looked quite well (read healthy) compared to previous times we've seen him live. Here's hoping he stays clean.

And in other news we're gonna see The Strokes in London this summer! If any of you are going let me know :)

xo

Revlon ColorStay Eyeshadow Quad in Precocious

A couple of months back, when I met my cousin in London we did a bit of shopping. In TK Maxx I got an eyeshadow quad from the Revlon ColorStay line in Precocious.

It features a sparkly silver, a medium dark grey, a dusty pink and a purple shade. The moment I saw it I knew I had to get it (even though I don't wear eyeshadow that much) as the colours just looked so beautiful together and also I wanted to try some purple on my lids to see if it made my brown eyes stand out a bit more. 

It promises 16 hours of wear with silky shades that are blendable and don't fade, smudge or crease. Indeed do they not crease even on my oily eyelids, and that's without a primer. I really like this palette as it is long lasting, easy to blend, has beautiful shades and it's quite affordable. 

Find Revlon ColorStay™ Eyeshadow Quad in Precocious in Boots and Superdrug.

xo