April Favourites

Just to bring some reality into this blog post; we're one quarter of the way through 2016 - seriously Christmas and New Year feels like a lifetime ago. Anywho, writing my April favourites is rather exciting; why you might asked well for one, it's the end of another glorious but rather hectic month of working life and second, it means FLORIDA IS ALMOST HERE! In fact this post comes to you from a girl sat on the train heading to Gatwick as you read - everybody put your hands in the air like you just don't care! *insert monkey with hands over its eye here*. 

Two of my proudest moment during the month of April were;

1. I motivated myself enough to go to gym consistently - if you know me this is a big deal; most of the time I would rather sat at home and eat multiple packs of Cadburys chocolate fingers rather than hit the gym. 

2. I managed to pack my suitcase to Florida without having to sit on it to close it and I was under the weight limit too. *Air Grab* Seriously when I flew to Portugal with my university chicks last year; my case was overflowing and I was only going for week but Florida I'm going for ten days - how does that work? 

Anyway in amongst of all the chaos what with working life, holiday shopping and a social life, I've still managed to find a few favourites...

1. Arian Oil Shampoo & Conditioner 

With the Great British weather unfortunately not on our side, my hair has taken a turn for the worse - seriously Snow in April? What's that all about? And it seems we've had every storm in the English alphabet past through our country in the last few months; no wonder my hair needs some help. I love the results, my hair feels silky and shiny and I can really see the difference, it is making to my hair. The smell is incredible and you only need a pea-sized of both shampoo and conditioner; which saves on re-purchasing and costs dramatically. 

2. Monin Amaretto Coffee Syrup 

Since trying Amaretto Chocolate Brownie at Christmas; I've been on the hunt for Amaretto Syrup to flavour my regular-sized weekend lattes. Thank you Dolce Gusto and Monin, for bringing some amazing things in our lives. Pre-warning, you can not Amaretto syrup in shops; I've looked everywhere, no luck as of yet. However my hunt comes to an end, when I remembered my trusty sidekick, Amazon. So my Spring afternoons are now very much spend sitting in the back garden (weather depending, of course) with a Amaretto flavoured latte in one hand and probably some form of cake in the other. 

3. Nails Inc Superfood Base Coat and Kensington Caviar Top Coat 

Don't you hate it when you've just painted your nails and one chipped almost instantly? Well not anymore; it's true what they say, go from something a little more extensive and it 100% works. Over the years, I've bought many top and base coats for my nails but not have seemed to have the desired effect and certainly haven't done what it's says they will do. At £14 per bottle, it is a little more than I would normally pay but still it's the best top and base cost since sliced bread; this colour on my nails at the moment has been one for two weeks and guess what... No Chips! 

4. My Disney Experience App  

If this app wasn't in my favourites his month, I would have seriously been surprised. Not only can I countdown to my holiday, I am also plan my holiday from England; from what rides we want to go to booking breakfast with the characters - I think I'm slowly convincing my friend, who I'm going to Florida with, that breakfast with the characters is a must! Not to mention, instead of waiting in queues for hours (you know how us British folk like to queue) we can book our fast pass passes through this app, so no more waiting in line for us. 

NOTE TO PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN TO FLORIDA - This app may have been around for a while but I've never been to Florida; so please be patient whilst I catch up with excitement. 

5. Vaseline Body Moisturiser 

Just like my lifeless, winter batter hair; my skin has unfortunately taken a beaten from this wild Great British weather that we've been having lately too. Not cool. So, as any normal girl would, I hit Google and started to look for the best moisturiser I could find - obviously it needed to have a reasonable price tag; I found one body moisturiser for £48. *insert shocked face emoji here* Vaseline have done body moisturisers for a while now but I always found the cocoa butter one really greasy but that was quite a few year since I lasted used it, so I thought why the heck not, lets try it again. I'm so glad I did. It's not greasy in the slightest, it's soft, smooth and has amazing coverage on my skin and the best part is you don't need a lot either. 

Until the next time, when hopefully my favourites will be filled with items from my Florida holiday, Au Revoir!
Love,
Lauren xo 

March Favourites

A March favourites post can only mean one thing... Firstly it is one month until Florida (*cue the extremely excited shrieks and dances*) and secondly, we are a quarter of the way through 2016; I mean where did that time go? Yes that's right, Spring is finally here and Summer will be soon be upon us and we can finally hopefully put our winter coats and boots back into hibernation until Autumn and Winter dawn on us once again but until then let's focus on the positives. With Spring well and truly on our doorsteps, the candles that have a fresh, sweet and/or floral smell have been taken back out of storage, and not to mention that the one of the positive that comes from heading into Spring is being able to drive to and from work in the daylight. Bliss. 

March has literally flown by in the blink of an eye - I am kind of hoping that April does too, since I'm heading across the pond for a holiday on the 1st May - but don't worry, I have still managed to find a few favourites along the way, let's take a look... 

1. Sanctuary Spa, Convert Garden, Air-Whipped Soufflé Scrub 
I don't understand people who don't like to exfoliate - I mean, my skin always feels supersoft afterwards. When I purchased this particular scrub, the shop assistant said to me "I don't understand people who exfoliate. I mean what is the point?" to which I lead with the response (attached with a smile) "people who want supersoft, apricot smelling skin" - Yes I did indeed get daggers! Anywho, I've been looking for a good exfoliator for months but I haven't found one that suits; until March when I got recommended this one. It is incredibly light and fluffy on your skin and the best part is, it lasts for absolutely ages because you don't need to do it every night and you only need a pea-size amount. Perfection. 

2. Sanctuary Spa, Convert Garden, Air-Whipped Creme Soufflé 
It's only fair to say that if you buy one product from a set of two, you might as well try out and purchase the second product from the set as well. Hence how I ended up with the Sanctuary Spa moisturising soufflé as well as the scrub. Similar to the scrub, it is incredibly light and fluffy on your skin; however it doesn't last very long because even if you use a pea-size amount, it doesn't spread very far on your skin but it does however leave your skin feeling silky and smooth.

3. Coco White Teeth Whitening {Vanilla Swirl, Light Lemon & Minty Fresh}
Normally I am not one to try this type of thing out but I have heard such amazing things about this products and since it was on offer at the time of purchase; I thought "why the hell not give it a go". After taking at least half an hour to decide what flavour I think I would like the most, I opted for the assorted flavours - god knows, why I couldn't of made that decision half an hour early, it would of save me a lot of time. I have to admit that all three flavours are really tasty (Light Lemon is a definite fav though) and actually, I have started to notice a real difference to my teeth and gums - hopefully by the time I get to the end of two week cycle, I will be able to reveal a brighter and whiter smile. Cheese! 

4. Tesco's Chocolate Heaven Cookies
It's official I have a definite addiction to cookies! Don't get me wrong, I do love the traditional chocolate chip but these are indeed chocolaty heaven; however my only complaint has to be that there are only eight in the packet, so when you live in a family of four you have to quick otherwise they will be long gone. I mean who doesn't love cookies? I'm got some White Chocolate & Raspberry cookies to try next and no doubt they will take pride of place within my April Favourites, especially if there as good as these. #watchthisspace 

5. Bankin' App 
Realising that I cannot access my budget spreadsheet, anytime anywhere is devastating; however thanks to my trusty iPhone (thank you Steve Jobs), I've found an app which helps me to stick to my budgeting plan on-the-go. It's easy to use, colour co-ordinated and most importantly, it does what it says on the tin and stops me spending when I don't need to. Online banking is definitely a frenemy of mine but this app has definitely helped me to stick to budget and save.

Until the next monthly favourites, when I'll be sat in the airport waiting to board my flight to Florida (eeekkk!), Au Revoir!
Love,
Lauren xo 

February Favourites

Am I writing this whilst I devour a piece of homemade Lemon Meringue Pie? Yes, yes I am. And do I feel guilty about doing so? No, no I do not. I mean what else would I get up to on Monday evening after a tiring day at work other than feel sorry for myself by eating my own bodyweight in Lemon Meringue Pie - sounds like a perfect evening to me! Well, that and catching up on Pretty Little Liars - which has got rather intense and confusing again by the way; I'm sure all #PPL fans will agree with me somewhat. 

Anyhoo, what an absolute whirlwind these last few weeks have been but whilst I have been gathering my thoughts ready for the month of March, I've decided there is only one thing that wish would in March; if the clocks insist on 'springing forward', please spring forward to the warm, sunny weather that we are all lusting over. Whilst I've been longing for Spring to arrive, there's still been time to pick up a few new favourites along the way: 

1. FLORIDA. FLORIDA. FLORIDA.
Did I mention that I just booked a holiday with my bestie (for the best part of eighteen years) to Florida? YES! I am going to Disneyland in Florida. I've never been across the pond before, so imagine my excitement when it turned from just talking about going to America to actually happening - hell to the yeah! It might be 61 days away but the planning has already began and I don't just mean what we are going to do whilst in Florida; I mean the clothes and essentials I am going to take. Some might call me organised; others will call me crazy but hey, who cares?! Because I'm going to FLORIDA!  

2. Chasing Daisy | Paige Toon 
Who has two thumbs and loves curling up on the sofa with a good book? Yes, that's right this gal does. Towards the end of February I really got into Chasing Daisy by Paige Toon - maybe you checked out my book review on it? - a cute, romantic novel and any women who has ever had a crush or implusive relationship experience can relate too. I've never read any of Paige Toon's book; however it is such an easy read and full of sexual and romantic tension that I'll definitely be going back for another book from her collection. Watch this space for more book reviews to come. 

3. Bourjois Colour Boost Lip Crayon | Red Sunshine 
I'll be honest with you, I've never been a big fan of lipstick (well putting it on anyway).  Don't get me wrong, I love a good lipstick but I can just never seem to be able to put it on right. Seriously? I will literally get it everywhere. It's ridiculous - honestly you wouldn't think I'm a twenty one year old girl at times.  But this stuff. Amazing. Either way, my lips get the full effect of lipstick, without all the mess that putting lipstick on can cause and it comes in this divine colour. It's a dream! *insert heart eye emoji here*.

4. Yankee Candle Lemongrass & Ginger Wax Tart 
Okay imagine the Lime flavoured Starburst sweet in candle form. Amazing, right? Since Spring is just around the corner, I seriously can't get enough of this scent; honestly it is so refreshing and sweet. And yes, after burning it for a matter of hours I was down the shop buying myself some Starburst. Bliss. 

Until the next monthly favourites in thirty-one days time, Au Revoir!
Love, 
Lauren xo 

January Favourites

January always feels like a really long month (especially where payday is concerned) but these last thirty-one days have flown by in the blink an eye and we are now welcoming February in with open arms. Although its February, we'll all still be in our knitted jumpers, winter coats and boots holding on to our seasoned lattes whilst we still can, battling what seems like every storm in the English alphabet - February is a time of love with Valentines Day just around the corner and although I haven't got a boyfriend, there is nothing better than a single girls Valentines day treat - Ben and Jerry's come at me. However with one month down in 2016, it means that we are:

A) One month closer to Summer (which includes the month of my birth)
and...
B) My holiday is getting closer and closer, which means it will soon be time to start shopping for it.

January has been a whirlwind month for me and sadly its been all work and no play at times - is this what life is like as you get older? - I mean my next holiday is in September (well as far as I know; watch this space) and before you know it, Spring and Summer will be nowhere to seen and we'll be back celebrating the New Year again. But until that time, let's celebrate the year ahead by finding more things each month that I've been loving:

1. Aussie Winter Miracle Shampoo and Conditioner
Okay this stuff is amazing. I've heard people talk about Aussie saying 'how brilliant and nice smelling it is' but I've never actually used it myself. Until now. This is something that I recommend to everyone, especially people with dry, lifeless hair that these storms keep causing; I mean my hair feels extremely nourished and smells gorgeous and with this product, a little goes a long way. Aussie can seem expensive but it lasts ages and is definitely worth while - especially if you get the bigger bottle. Top Tip: Once the conditioner gets half way, add a little water to the mixture and shake. It lasts a lot longer. 

2. Base + Barley 
If you don't have a Base + Barley near you, go to a place that does. I was recommended this place by a work colleague, so I thought that I would give it a try, I mean what was the worst that could happen. It was tasty, fresh and great quality for money; twelve inch woodburn oven pizza with amazing flavours and the best part was the pizzas didn't have any weird names, which I couldn't pronounce (like I always struggle with in Wagamama's) they were labelled Number One, Number Two, Three etc - it makes life so easy after a long week of work! 

3. Ciaté London x Olivia Palermo Nail Polish (Nantucket)
My lovely bestie, who knows me so well, bought me this nail polish for Christmas and I wear it constantly because it just doesn't chip or lose its colour like some nail polishes. Although it isn't a traditional wintery colour, I love how bright and finished my nails look when painted with this colour - it is definitely going to be my go-to colour for the Spring and Summer months. 

4. Yankee Candle Bundled Up Wax Tart 
I do believe that this was in my December and Christmas Favourites but honestly I just can't get enough of this scent; I mean it is such a warm, inviting and homely scent, I light it every evening especially when it is cold, raining and horrible outside and I am tucked up inside with a blanket, a good book and a cup of tea. Bliss. 

5. Jack Wills Fernham Super Skinny Jean 
I don't know about anyone else but I find such satisatifion when I find the perfect pair of jeans that actually fit. No belt. No rolling up the trousers. The perfect fit. These were a bit of a spontanrous purchase I saw them in the January Jack Wills sale for £75 £24 and I jumped at the chance and I haven't looked back since. Next stop black jeans... 

Until the next time a month goes by quicker than a flash of light, Au Revoir! 
Love, 
Lauren xo 

December & Christmas Favourites

Happy 2016 Everyone! Welcome to first Monthly Favourites of 2016, I hope you're all as excited as I am to start to New Year because it means a fresh start and a fresh adventure. To be honest, it feel rather strange going into a New Year and not going back to university to celebrate but I suppose it's something I'll have to get use to from now on... 

Last month was crazy busy, what with the run up to Christmas, the hectic times at work with handovers and making sure clients were happy before we all went off to enjoy the Christmas break and not to mention the intense days before Christmas where you need to get everything wrapped, sent and sorted whilst waiting nervously for those last minute gifts to arrive in the post and in amongst all of that you have to find the time to do everything else. But some how I still managed to find a few monthly favourites during December including a few Christmas goodies; let's take a look... 

1. Berry Trifle & Bundled Up Yankee Candles
In my eyes there is no such thing as 'seasonal scents', if candle scents are wonderful enough they should be burning all year round, don't you agree? Berry Trifle & Bundled Up are primarily Christmas scents but Bundled Up is such a warm, intense and homely scent that could be lit on those cold, wet and wild days whilst your snuggled under your a duvet with a cup of tea; likewise with Berry Trifle, I mean who doesn't like the smell of Berries or Trifle all year round. Bliss. 

2. EMU Australia Slippers (Colour: Mushroom)
Big shoutout to my Mumma for buying me these slippers for Christmas! Honestly they are the comfy, nicest and softed slippers I've ever had and to top it off this colour is - *insert heart shaped eye emoji here* - beautiful. I don't think I've taken them off since I got them to be honest (apart from the shower because that would just be stupid otherwise) but seriously if you taken any recommendations out of this post, I would highly recommend these EMU Australia slippers in the colour Mushroom.  

3. Pinterest 
I went off Pinterest for a while but over the Christmas break, I decided to once again find my love for Pinterest and boy, I think I have a love bigger than before. Some of  the photography and interiors on Pinterest are amazing and I don't know about anyone else but I find it rather therapeutic putting images into Pin boards, don't you? 

4. White Winter Aero (Limited Edition)
At Christmas time I always dread how much chocolate I am going to receive; don't get me wrong chocolate is girl's best friend (especially when your feeling a bit low) but I always end up with a load of chocolate which I tend to just pig out on for days and I feel awful by the end of December. Not good. But this year, this melt-in-my-mouth chocolate bar (which I have two of by the way) will definitely will eaten with no regrets at all. Yum! 

5. iPad Air 2 in Gold (including The Vampire Diaries)
Getting new technology is the nicest thing ever; I mean there are no scratches, it's so clean, and you get to buy all new accessories for it, what's not to love - also, the best part is the fact that it matches my iPhone colour as well. But since getting my new iPad Air 2 I have been using it for practical purposes like catching up on The Vampire Diaries, Season 6; I've waited so long for the new season of The Vampire Diaries to arrive on Netflix, and it finally has - this TV series in now the highlight of my evenings, sitting down with a cup of tea, snuggled under a blanket with a scented candle burning. Bliss. 

6. Cath Kidston Mug
I love Cath Kidston mugs, I am a big fan some would say. Originally this was a Christmas presents bought so I could take it to work and have my own mug but I've made a decision to keep it at home because it super cute and isn't worth getting ruined. Most importantly it is a good size to get my morning caffeine fix and my evening hot chocolate with cream. Maybe I need to buy another one to take to work? 

7. The Body Shop - Vitamin E Intense Moisture Cream 
Once again, this moisturiser is back in my monthly favourites; I previously mentioned it in my November Favourites because this bi-polar winter weather that we were experiencing and still are unfortunately was doing nothing for my skin. De-hydrated and dry was an understatement but this moisturiser has helped my skin conquer this horrendous British winter weather that we've been having and made it look as fresh as it can in winter. A little goes a long way with this cream and it works wonders; it definitely does what it says on the tin. 

Until another installment of 'Monthly Favourites' in 2016, Au Revoir!
Love,
Lauren xo 

November Favourites

A November favourites blog post can only mean one thing... It's almost Christmas. YAY! Yes that's right its almost that time of year where I can light my Christmas scented candles without judgement, decorate my house to look like Santa's Grotto - blue and white themed Christmas decorations are just so beautiful, don't you think? - and it's acceptable to hear Christmas songs on the radio and sing them at the top of your lungs - even if your in the office working. Oops! I am in full festive mode, ready for Christmas to begin and today is the day that it does.

So let's get down to business, with a mince pie in hand here are my November favourites. Enjoy!  

1. All Butter Pineapple, Coconut & White Chocolate Cookies {from Marks & Spencers}
Who doesn't love cookies? I mean don't get me wrong I do love the traditional 'Double Choc Chip' and 'Milk Chocolate' cookies but these are something else. AMAZING in fact. I picked these up on a whim because well, I'm going to be honest I liked the look of the packaging so I bought them. You would think that cookies with fruit in would be somewhat gross but actually these are the best but what can I say "It's not just food; It's M&S food." #AdvertisingGraduate 

2. The Body Shop Vitamin C Intense Moisturiser 
This bi-polar winter weather is doing nothing for my skin. De-hydrated and dry is an understatement. But thanks to the Black Friday sales in The Body Shop I have found the perfect moisturiser for my skin helping me to conquer this horrendous British winter weather that we've been having. My skin is very temperamental especially around this time of year, its dry one minute having a mad breakout the next, so I needed to see results; I use this every night just before I go to bed and with this moisturiser I find that less is more, you only need a little on your finger and your face feels silky soft in no time. 

3. Mulled Wine Candle 
Christmas. Christmas. Christmas. Yes, its almost here and there is nothing like the smell of Mulled Wine to get you in the mood for this festive season. Now, I don't like the taste of Mulled Wine but the smell is divine and one that makes the whole house smell like Christmas. I tell you what there is nothing better than sitting on a Sunday afternoon in comfy joggers whilst watching a Christmas film on SkyMovies - FYI they've had an amazing choice of Christmas films on this year - and the smell of a Mulled Wine scented candle filling the room. Bliss. 

4. Graduation Dress 
You know how some women want to wear their wedding dress over and over again after getting married - or is that just Monica, Rachel and Phoebe in F.R.I.E.N.D.S? Anyway this is what I want to do with my Graduation dress, I want to wear it day in, day out (call me sad, I don't care) but Graduation day was a day that I'll always remember; from the 70mph winds and rain to my surprise 'Digital Marketing Foundation Award with Digital Excellence' Award that I received on stage. One of my favourite dresses for one of my favourite days. Say hello to Lauren BA (Hons) - First Class. 

5. The Little Blue Notebook 
You've heard of a girl having a 'little black book' well this is my 'little blue book' but don't be fooled this doesn't hold the same information as a 'little black book' does; in fact it is totally opposite. I was bought this little blue book by a friend for my 21st and I couldn't decide what to do with it until now. 

Just think the next time a 'Monthly Favourite' blog comes around, it will be 2016. Scary where the time goes. Au Revoir!
Love, 
Lauren xo

October Favourites | Moments

I can't believe October is over already. I mean where did it go. Today marks the day that we say goodbye to October and hello to November, welcoming reunions, Starbucks red cups and chillier evenings. Not to mention, that November is a rather exciting month for me, I finally get to graduate - hell to the yeah - after months of seeing Facebook filled with graduation pictures, it is now my turn to walk across that stage and get my hands on my 1st Class Honours certificate (hoping that I don't fall flat on my face, whilst doing so. Awkward!) 

October was a good month but it didn't consist of that many favourites - to be honest, I think most of my favourites were similar to the products I mentioned in my falling for Autumn essentials blog. So I thought instead of doing my usual monthly favourite products series, I would do my eight favourite October moments instead:

1. Rugby World Cup 2015 - Italy vs Romania
When a once in a lifetime opportunity comes to your country, it would be rude not to attend. Even though, I barely knew the rules of Rugby (I mean I knew the game consisted of scrum, a converted try and penalities - which is pretty good going for me to be honest) I  still had my brother and work colleague doubling checking whether I knew what just happened 99.9% of time; it was a great atmosphere and one of the best afternoons I've had in a long time. 

2. Hitting the one month mark at my new job - boy, have I learnt a lot in the space of a month. 
To be honest, I think I am nearly on the two month mark now but it was a big achievement nonetheless and I've loved every second of it and look forward to the future. 

3. Graduation plans with the besties - Southampton, here we come! 
After finally getting my results (about a month after every other uni, might I just add) back in July, Graduation seemed like so far away but now it is finally my turn and I can't wait to celebrate with my lovely girlies. Look out Southampton, a mass of people with funny looking hats are coming back on the 17th November! 

4. Reuniting with old friends
There is nothing better than meeting up with old friends and having a laugh over a drink or two - it really brightens the end of your week. 

5. Christmas Candles
The seasonal senses of mulled wine, cinnamon and turkey (yes! I found a turkey and cranberry scented candle; needless to say I didn't buy it) are back. I've got them all lined up ready for festive season to begin. 

6. Starting the Christmas Shopping 
I am a freakishly organised person, so for anyone who knows me it probably won't surprise you that I have already started my Christmas shopping - to be honest, I think I bought my first present back in September. Holla to all the organised people out there! Okay, so Christmas shopping is manic, what with people everywhere and you can't move but it's the atmosphere I enjoy, from the twinkling lights to the cute Christmas markets - I love Christmas. 

Until the festive season is upon us and another favourite series occurs, Au Revoir!
Love,
Lauren xo 

September Favourites

In my eyes, October means it is officially Autumn and whilst September was an exciting month for me; I mean I started a new job and I finally planned the long awaited reunion with my besties from uni (It's time to put our best foot forward for our Great Gatsby Graduation ball) I just can't wait for October to begin! First things first though, it is time to say Hello October, as we welcome you with knitted jumpers, knee-high boots and a regular sized pumpkin-spiced latte. Now October is here, we are another month closer to Christmas - exciting - I think I may be a little bit too over-excited for Christmas though, as I am currently sat here writing this post in my Christmas pyjama's, with my Christmas 'Cranberry Ice' Yankee Candle burning, whilst looking at Christmas presents for everybody (I think I just said Christmas way to many times in that sentence). 

All in all, September was a good month of starting new adventures, whilst saying goodbye to the old ones but I still managed to come up with a few favourites in September: 

1. La Roche Posay Micellar Water for Sensitive Skin 
Okay, this stuff is a miracle cure. This is something that I would recommend to anybody, who has regular breakouts and sensitive skin; I mean, it is so gently and soft on your skin and it doesn't feel oily either. Also, if you're someone who suffers from blemishes or you scar after getting a spot, this product is for you as it's free from all those harsh chemicals; although at £11 a bottle (well at Boots anyway), it may seem extensive, it was worth every penny that I spent on it and from now on, it will forever be on my re-purchase list and will continue to be a favourite.  

2. My Fitness Pal App 

A good friend (Cheers Sal!), actually recommended this app to me and I've never looked back. It allows you to add what you had for breakfast, lunch, dinner and any snacks in-between counting each calorie as you go; I mean, I don't want to loads of weight but this app gives you plenty of meals to try and just monitors what you eat, helping you cut out snacking and become healthy, which is my ultimate aim to be honest. 

3. You're the one that I want - Giovanna Fletcher
I love spontaneous buys and this was one of them; I mean, I do love a good book and Giovanna Fletcher, so this was the perfect buy. The book is so easy to read and I just can't seem to put it down and it reminds me so much of my childhood friendships and those first-time crushes. I can't wait to read her other books, they are already on pre-order. 

4. Maybelline 'Keep It Classy' Colour Drama Lip Crayon
Normally, I am not one for a dark lip but when I saw this colour, I thought it was perfect and I just had to buy it. Is it bad that I mainly bought it because of the colour, not because I wante to wear it? Anyway, this colour is gorgeous and with it in the form of a lip crayon, it just makes it so easy to apply quickly and out and about. The name 'Keep it Classy' reminded me of a friend, that always use to (and still does) tell me to stay classy when I was off on a night out.

5. Apple and Cinnamon Crisp Cereal 
Don't get me wrong, I love cereal but after a while, it gets really boring, eating the same thing day in, day out. So I opted to try something new. This was the perfect find; I mean, I love apple and I love cinnamon, what cereal could be better than this. Now, every morning I look forward to waking up, sitting on my sofa with a bowl of this delightful cereal, topped with vanilla yogurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Devine! 

7. Jack Wills Holecroft Sheer Shirt
This shirt is perfection! That's all I can say. I have worn this time and time again over the last few weeks and I am tempted to  buy another one, just in case it rips or gets damaged. It's so soft and goes with anything because it has both black and navy on it and it is perfect for my office job and any meetings. 

Until next time, Au Revoir! 
Love, 
Lauren xo 

August Favourites

Hello September! I can’t believe how fast this year is going; we are now reaching the end of summer and getting closer and closer to Christmas - one of my favourite times of year, by the way - it’s crazy to think that twelve months ago, I was heading back to Southampton for my final year at university and now I am an BA (Hons) Advertising graduate (sorry, I had to throw that in there) IT’S SCARY! How time flies though…

August has been a month filled with celebrations and adventures; however some of my favourite moments have to be between:

   1. Being offered my first full-time job since finishing university.

   2. Turning the big 21! I am now officially seen as an adult in every country in the world.

   3. Although, this wasn’t an achievement as such, the reality of graduating set in when I ordered my cap and gown for the big day in November.

All in all, August has been a hectic month but don’t worry, I’ve managed to come up with a few things that I have absolutely loved this month of August:

1. Our Own Candle Company “Country Pancakes and Syrup” Candle

Seriously, this is amazing – my parents aren’t so keen though. This was none other than a birthday present; however it is now a keen favourite and takes pride of place in my bedroom. Initially, I thought this would be quite a sickly scent; oh boy how wrong I was! I definitely think it is more of a Autumn/Winter scent than an a Summer scent but that’s just my opinion. Imagine a  fresh winter’s morning, where you have a thin layer of ice on your car windows and it's so cold, you can see your breath; well this candle would be perfect to burn... The warm smell of fresh pancakes, drizzled with hot syrup (I’m getting rather hungry right now) is perfect for those cold Wintery days.

2. Urban Decay “Naked 2” Eye Shadow Palette

I’ve never found any really good pigmented eye shadows; normally I end up getting something that loses its colour the second that I put it on my eye lids. However, this palette is amazing, it has a range of different colours, some light and others dark but most importantly, it has a colour to suit every occasion; from everyday work looks to night-time outings and shopping sessions with friends. Although, this palette isn’t the cheapest; it was definitely worth every penny I spend on it.

3. Netflix {Pretty Little Liars}

The month of August held the answer to the question; every Pretty Little Liars addict has been waiting for… “Who the hell was A?” After five years of waiting and wondering, it was revealed - SPOILERS ALERT! - that CeCe Drake was A and in fact, was part of the Dilaurentis family all along. *cue the dramatic and shocked faces*

{Pretty Little Liars Post - Check out my previous ramblings here!}

4. Rimmel London Feel Good Glows “01 Notting Hill”

IMPULSE BUY! After spending the last three months trying to put blusher on right, I decided to give up until I came across this… The Rimmel Feel Good Glow “Notting Hill.” Some blusher works as a highlighter at the tops of your cheek bones, others just add a little bit of colour to your cheeks; however this is a shimmer that can work along side bronzer (or not!) to add a natural sheen and grimmer to your cheek bones, so when the light catches your cheeks it gives you a natural looking complexion and it is super easy to apply. 

5. Micheal Kors Watch

B-E-A-U-T-I-FUL! I can’t say anymore than that; other than, this was a 21^st Birthday presents from my beloved parents and it will always been one of my most treasured and favourite possessions. Thank you Mumma and Poppa Bear!

6. L – Cushion

After a few years, your cushion become flat and are never as comfy as when you first bought them; it also doesn’t help when your dog sits or chews them every other day. Anyway, this was an impulse buy and added that little something extra to my bedroom; although you’d think that a cushion doesn’t make much difference, it just adds a little something extra and I love things with my initials on!

7. Barry M "Elderberry" Gelly Nail Varnish 
This is an old favourite, which I have been reunited with and loving throughout August. In the past, I've found the Barry M Gelly nail varnishes to be pretty good; they don't tend to chip and the colour doesn't fade and look horrible. Everytime, I paint my nails I have the same problem question… "What colour?" I have so many to choose from and sometimes, I have no idea which one to choose and it is even harder, if I have an occasion to attend as well because I have to make sure it matches my outfit. Anyway, this colour goes with absolutely everything and is a colour that can be worn all year round. If you haven't already I would definitely reccommend trying the Barry M Gelly Nail Varnishes. 

8. Herbal Essence Bee Strong Hair Mask “Apricot and Honey”

If your someone like me, who loves to try a new shampoo and conditioner every three months – you will love this next favourite!? This Herbal Essence ‘Bee Strong’ Hair Mask is a new find for me this month; my hair has been feeling a bit dry and damaged the last few weeks (it doesn’t help with the horrible wet, windy and wild weather we’ve been having) and I wanted something that was going to help repair and strengthen my hair. After a month of using this, you would not believe the results – I love it; I use it once a week and I find my hair smells beautiful from the ‘Apricot and Honey’ scent and my hair feels so soft and silky. All you have to do, is wet your hair and put it on, working it into your roots through your hair and down to your ends; leave it on for half an hours and rinse. Your hair will be soft, silky and smell glorious for ends – this is one product I would definitely recommend!

With August over and September just beginning, in no time at all it will be Christmas – is it too early to start Christmas shopping now? Or can it just be seen being super-organized? Anyway, here’s to September, a month where I can hope to start my new adventures and begin life after university; although I will miss all the wonderful memories and favourites that the summer months have held {Thank you, Heart Angels!} here is to the rest of 2015!

- Lauren xo