Rebecca's Vintage Romance

Weekly Segment #9

2012-02-12T17:04:00.003Z

All images from tumblr

1. A bit of 'hairspiration' for you this week. I'm so sick & bored of my hair at the moment. I've wanted to ombre it since about this time last year, but it was never done right (should have just done it myself!) and it put me off doing it again. I need a complete change, colour and cut. I'm looking a little bit like a 2005 Gerard Way at the moment, hence why there's been no pictures of me for a bit! I don't know whether to grow my fringe out like the top image or have a little fringe in that photo of Zooey! Decisions decisions.

2. I have been home alone this week, but it means I have got SO much uni work done! I'm currently working on a 5000wrd Fashion essay, a trend report, a business plan and my big final major project! Eeeek. But I'm staying on top of it all so I'm feeling good about it!

3. Things have happened this week that have made me realise that I am too nice for my own good. All I want to do is look after people, make them smile & do nice things for them. But I spend so much time trying to avoid hurting other people's feelings, I bottle it up and I end up being the one hurting/upset. I need to stop this, especially as it turns out these people don't even care about me that much.

4. Other than that I'm feeling really positive, as I can concentrate on being around people that will look after me back, make me feel good & will appreciate all that I do for them!
Speaking of which, I met up with the lovely Stacey on Friday & we chatted for ages about life, blogging & university, over a delicious hot chocolate. It has been so nice to get to know Stacey, who I met at the Manchester Bloggers Meet back in November!

5. Finally, if you follow me on twitter you would have noticed me banging on about Paris. I'm going in March and I absolutely cannot wait! I've never been before and I've always wanted to go, so I'm rather excited!

"In my life, oh why do I give valuable time, to people who don't care if I live or I die"

- Oh Morrissey, why are all of your lyrics so bang on?

The Lake District in the Snow

2012-02-08T11:44:00.000Z

Hi everyone, I thought I would share the rest of the photos I took in Ambleside on Sunday. It was so pretty, but I'm so glad it was in the Lakes rather than Preston. I'm really not a fan of snow unless I don't have to walk/travel anywhere!

It was a beautiful day & the sun was out for the best part of it. The Lake District is one of my favourite places. I think I have posted about it on here before, but it's just one of the most peaceful, beautiful places that I have visited!
I obviously love taking photos of sheep too. I did feel sorry for them in the cold wet snow but they were still rummaging around in it looking for grass/weeds/shrubs/whatever they eat!
If you have never been to the Lakes & you like walking, you definitely need to go one day!

I hope you are all having a good week, I'll hopefully get some decent (indoor) outfit photos for my next post!

Weekly Segment #8

2012-02-05T22:02:00.000Z

(Beautiful Lake Windermere, the substitute picture for my face & amazing carrot cake!)

1. The obligatory snow related post for this edition of weekly segment! Funnily enough, it didn't snow in Preston, not ONE flake. However, I did slip on a massive disguised icy patch & ended up clinging onto a lamp-post for dear life (fml).

2. Thank you all so much for the lovely comments on my last post. I was really not keen on the photos of me but you are all so kind :) I am making my way through commenting everyone back from the last few posts. Sorry I am so rubbish!

3. My parents came to visit this weekend which has been lovely! We went to the Lake District this afternoon not expecting much snow but look how pretty it was! We drove through Windermere where I jumped out & took the top photos, then drove on to Ambleside. We just took an easy walk around the snow covered town & I made friends with sheep. We then finished off in the gorgeous cafe 'The Apple Pie' where I had amazing carrot cake & a well-deserved brew (or three!).

4. Should be going back into the darkrooms on Tuesday! I can't wait to develop some more photos. I will make sure I share them with you all once they're done. I so so want a Diana mini.

5. Tomorrow we are getting our Final Project brief! I can't believe it's come around so quickly, I have a few ideas of what I want to do if it's an open brief but I'm not sure if it is yet. I'm nervous, yet excited because this is the time to really prove myself!

6. Finally, last week it was confirmed that I will be attending #ldnlunch in March! (that sounds so formal!) I am so excited to meet everyone. I met the LOVELIEST girls at the last blogger meet up I went to in Manchester, so I am really looking forward to this one too. Are any of you going? :)

I'll be back again soon with the rest of the pretty photos I took today!

Just a Walk in the Park

2012-02-03T18:22:00.000Z

Today I felt like a bit of a forties girl dressed in this ensemble! I haven't worn this dress in ages, I first posted about it just over a year ago. One of my favourite colour combinations at the moment is red, navy & leopard print so I purposely picked out these accessories to go for a walk in the park.
I felt so girly but it was nice as I haven't dressed like this in a while! Lately it's just been black, white & grey so it felt good to get some colour back in my life!

Hat - M&S

Scarf - H&M

Coat & gloves - River Island

Dress - Vintage

Bag & Shoes - New Look

Necklace - Accessorize

It has been beautiful, yet unbelievably cold today & apparently it's going to get even colder over the weekend eeek! I am totally sick of this cold weather & I'm looking forward to ditching the coat & swapping it for a blazer or cardigan. I hate the bulk my coat adds to me (I guess that's just because I'm self-concious anyway) but bring on Spring & candy, pastel colours!

Avenham Park has featured on this blog quite a fair bit as you'll know if you've been following for a while! Whenever it's bright (which isn't very often) we visit the park in all it's sunny glory. Preston is always so grey, the weather & the 'city', so Avenham Park is like a completely different world in comparison. It's the one part of Preston that's actually been kept really nice so it's my favourite place to go to get some fresh air.

It looks so pretty doesn't it?

This weekend my parents are visiting & on Sunday we're hopefully going to head up to the lakes for the day. I can't wait, I'll be sure to get lots of pretty photos, especially if the weather is as beautiful as it has been today!
Have a lovely weekend everyone!

Candle Obsession ♥

2012-01-31T18:05:00.002Z

If you're anything like me, there's nothing you like better than making your home all cosy. I'm a real home-girl so I love anything interiors, homeware, scented candles etc. Lately, especially since Christmas & the sales I've bought so many different candles! My tiny flat has an open kitchen/lounge area so I'm paranoid of lingering cooking smells. Therefore I am always burning oils & candles whilst I'm home.
These are a few bits I bought recently:

The Yankee candles were all in the sale in Clintons. I love anything cinnamon smelling/tasting so I snapped them up straight away. Now my flat smells all delicious! The other three little candles all smell gorgeous too. I used up the lavender one while I was studying/working, mainly because it's meant to be calming & I was a major stress head for 2 weeks! It did actually seem to relax me a bit to be honest, so I'm going to get some lavender oil for my oil burner when I find some.

My boyfriend & I were gifted a Next voucher for Christmas & he kindly offered it to me to spend so I went straight to the home section! I like Next but I much prefer the homeware section to anything else, they always have the most beautiful things! I got the Red Berry scented tea-light candles & these pretty tea-light holders. The holders were really reasonable at £3 each & the glass is so thick & heavy that they were worth it! But although you get a lot of candles in the pack, I wouldn't have paid £4.50 for them out of my own money! However, they smell amazing & I like having the safe holders to put them in. (I'm a massive over-worrier & think things will happen in disastrous accidents like the Final Destination films.)
Am I the only one with a candle obsession, or do you all love them too?

Weekly Segment #7

2012-01-29T17:47:00.003Z

Hi everyone, I apologise for the awful quality photobooth images. My camera just didn't like my face or the lighting today but I really wanted to get a photo of my hair! I styled it this morning using my new curling wand from yesterday's post & these are the waves in my hair this evening. You can't see them too well but they've just dropped a bit which I wanted to, but otherwise stayed in really well. I mainly love the volume it's added to my hair!

1. So a more positive weekly segment this week, they always tend to be so depressing but that's stopping now! I find the more positive I try to be on a Sunday that I start off to a better week.

2. I started a Fashion Enterprise module at university on Thursday. It's all about starting your own business & although I found it interesting, I found it extremely overwhelming too. I just hope I can get my head around it all in the next couple of weeks as there's a lot to do!

3. I started eating more healthily & drinking more water today, so hopefully I will start to feel better soon! Now I've handed in such a huge mound of work I can finally focus on myself a little more. It's not necessarily a diet, I just want to do more exercise & cut out junk food, as I think it will make a big difference!

4. My skin is finally getting clearer! I knew it was down to stress, but using the Freederm treatment has definitely helped! Even though sometimes it felt like my face was cracking, it has generally worked so I would recommend it! I was thinking about doing a before & after once my skin is fully clear just to show you how good it's been for me!

5. Tomorrow I am spending the day in the darkroom at uni developing photos I took this weekend. I've never really had the chance to develop my own pictures from film so I'm pretty excited. I'm really getting into photography again so I might see if I can pick up an old SLR in a charity shop or online somewhere.

6. Finally, I was so excited when I heard Blogger had created a reply feature, but I can't seem to reply yet. Is it my layout or something? Does anybody know? Help!

Right now I am going to cook a delicious vegetarian curry, then watch Birdsong on BBC1 later. Have you been watching it?
I hope you have all had a lovely weekend!

Do you believe in magic?

2012-01-28T16:30:00.000Z

Ha sorry I couldn't resist the title of this post, but I'll tell you why; I have recently bought the two best, unbelievable hair products these past few weeks! A curling wand & a Tangle Teezer. It's getting to the point now, where my hair is so long, it doesn't take a lot for it to go totally uncontrollable. Especially in this wet & windy weather where my hair ends up wrapping itself around my face. The minute I step out of the door I look a complete mess!

I'd been thinking about buying some curlers or a curling wand for some time & after hearing amazing things about wands I decided I would try & find a good one for under £30. I happened to pop into TK Maxx where I didn't think I would find anything (as I usually don't) but there was a selection of curlers, straighteners & one curling wand huzzah!
It's by a brand called Esense which I hadn't heard of before & I can't find a website for it either but apparently they're a Professional salon brand. The best part is that the RRP was £79.99 but I got it for £19.99! I tried it out as soon as I got home & they are a-maz-ing! Seriously I have never witnessed such fast, great results since I first ever tried out ghd's! It's really easy to use too.

Then a couple of weeks ago I bought a Tangle Teezer. I was a little reluctant to part with £10.99 for it in Boots but to be honest I couldn't find it much cheaper anywhere else. But the brush is also amazing, I can't believe how well it works. Every time I used to brush my hair before bed, the pain of getting the tangles out would bring me to tears, but when using the Tangle Teezer you can't even really feel it! Magic.
I highly recommend these products to anyone with long hair & I feel like my hair routine will be dramatically improved with these, so I'm happy! I'll make sure I get a photo of my curled hair tomorrow for my weekly segment post!

P.s Throughout this whole post I had that 'Do you believe in magic' song stuck in my head from American Pie, ha love it!

Fashion Promotion with Styling: Style Unwrapped Fashion Show

2012-01-27T22:08:00.000Z

Hi everyone, I am finally back after a hellish 2 weeks finishing off my massive portfolio project for my deadline today! It feels bloody amazing to have it all done so I can now catch up with blogs & share a little more with you all again. Thank you so much to those of you who read & comment, even when I've been MIA!

So after all this time, I am finally getting the chance to show you what I do for my degree. For those who don't know I study Fashion Promotion with Styling at UCLan. It's a fantastic degree & I've loved every minute of it, even if it is harder work than I have ever experienced!

When we started back for our final year in September, we were given (amongst others) a Fashion Show Production module. The girls on my course & I had to organise a commissioned fashion show for the Harris Museum based on the Global Threads exhibition they are currently running. It's a really interesting exhibition as it goes, so if you're local I definitely recommend it & the Harris Museum in general is a beautiful venue. We were all pretty excited to be organising it based around such a beautiful building.

The event was actually on the 1st December 2011. There were 12 collections in all including a collection from The Eastern Fashion degree course at UCLan & graduate Amy Saville. We also had clothes lent to us by Peacocks, Lipsy & Voi. All the rest of the looks were sourced & customised by our dedicated stylists!
All of the collections were:

Arabian Jewels
Embellishment
Eastern Fashion
Street Fusion
Mixed Prints
Peacocks
Amy Saville
All Black
Colour Blocking men's
Lipsy
Colour Blocking women's
Voi Jeans

Here are some images taken by an amazingly talented 3rd year Photography student, Jessica Lang. Make sure you check out her facebook page here where you can see the rest of the fashion show images & her other work:

Unfortunately we (my classmates & I) were backstage the whole time so we didn't get to see any of it until the final DVD, but the feedback we got was amazing. It was a truly exhausting but gratifying experience & I now know about all the hard work & planning that goes into organising a big event. We had food, contemporary dancers, street dancers, great music & most importantly amazing models & clothes.

So there you have it, if you have any questions don't hesitate to ask! For some reason I can't seem to reply to comments yet, boo :( but I'll get back to you quickest if you email me at rebeccasvintageromance@gmail.com

I hope you've all enjoyed this long awaited post! I look forward to hearing your thoughts about it!

Girlfriend In A Coma

2012-01-17T17:00:00.000Z

It's been so long since I posted an outfit, but I finally have a few photos for y'all! Whilst I've been doing my uni work all I want to do is snuggle up in big jumpers and wear my slippers everywhere. This is the next best thing I guess! I got the hoodie from the H&M men's section for £14.99 which is cheap considering how expensive they can be (I'm looking at you American Apparel). My style has gone super casual lately & I've been wearing lots of black and deep reds like this.

(Isn't it weird how different you can look?

I swear this doesn't look like me at all!)

Hoodie & Skirt - H&M

Necklace - Forever 21

Nails - Barry M's Mushroom

Just looking at these photos makes me realise how tired I actually am. Eye bags ahoy!
To go out I actually had a black cardigan on & black loafers, I just put this hoodie on top when I got home. It's comfy, warm & oh so cosy.

My nails are painted in Barry M's Mushroom shade which was a gift from my sister. I'd wanted it for a while so I was happy! I did have false nails on for a couple of weeks which I loved but my nails underneath were getting so weak I had to take them off, which explains why my nails are so short at the moment! My Forever 21 rosary beads are one of my faves! I got them back in August & I've worn them loads! I'm not religious or anything but I love them as a fashion item & I think they were only three or four pounds.

Well now I am going back to my never-ending pile of work & drinking continuous brews. I'm planning a photo shoot for this week which I'm actually really excited about. It's going to be really different from what I've previously done so wish me luck! I hope you're all having a good week.

Weekly Segment #6

2012-01-15T16:49:00.000Z

1. Excuse the massive picture of my face! I can't believe it's been two weeks since I last posted, but what a busy two weeks it's been! I haven't been blogging because I haven't fancied taking photos of myself lately. I'm having major self-esteem issues at the moment & my skin is the worst it's been in years. (This photo is from a few weeks ago!) It's most definitely all due to how stressed I have been with my university work. I've started using some of the Freederm skincare treatment; the facial wash, oil-free moisturiser & the gel. It seems to be doing something but they are not disappearing as of yet, maybe I need to give it another week or two.

2. I had a lovely time at home in Essex! I went for lovely country walks with my dogs, visited Cambridge, Chelmsford & Lakeside for shopping trips & best of all spent lots of time with my amazing family & friends. I was pretty sad to come back to Preston but May will soon arrive & I can move back for good!

3. Uni is still super stressful, another reason why I haven't blogged I just haven't the time! I have a few sketchbooks and one more photoshoot to complete before the 27th January & then I can blog a bit more again. Although I have been updating my tumblr quite a bit so if you have one please leave your link in a comment :)

4. I finally got round to buying Beyonce's 4 album. £4.99 in Sainsburys, bargain! It's been on non-stop since I got it home, I love it & every song on it!

5. Got some lovely Christmas presents & things in the sales which I'll be blogging about soon! I loved everyone's Christmas & New Year's posts, it looked like most of you had a cracking time!

6. Lastly, I was wondering if you would like to see the kind of thing I do at uni, for example post a couple of images from shoots I've done etc? I've been meaning to post some images from my course's fashion show that happened back in December, so I'll definitely do that soon!

Hope you've all had a lovely weekend x

Weekly Segment #5 & Happy 2012!

2012-01-01T22:30:00.000Z

My beautiful best friend & I ♥

Gosh it feels weird writing 2012. How time has flown since my last new year's post! I am so glad the new year is finally here, 2011 wasn't the best year for me especially towards the end. But now it's the 1st January & I am ready for a fresh start & amazing things are going to happen for me this year! (because I'm gonna make them happen!)
Instead of making new year's resolutions for this year, I am going to make promises. Promises to myself that I can & will keep!

1. Finish university knowing I have worked as hard as I possibly could, hopefully graduating with a grade that I am very happy with.

2. Get my career started. Fingers crossed I will get a graduate position I am so desperately after, if not get as much work experience as possible!

3. Be good to myself; eat well, exercise & be healthy. Healthy = happiness in my eyes!

4. Visit at least 2 different places/cities over the world - Paris & New York are strong contenders!

5. Finally, blog more & take more photographs! Reading everyone's new year posts has made me realise I definitely need to do more of this! I want to remember this year so I aim to take lots more photos!

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas break & New Year. I have extremely high hopes for 2012 & I wish you all the best of luck too!

Happy 2012! ♥

Creep.

2011-12-21T20:55:00.001Z

Thanks for the sweet comments on my last post. Sometimes I think I receive more support through internet/blog friends than in real life.
I posted about the perfect winter shoe a while back, but now I'm getting totally desperate. I am sick & tired of having cold, wet feet and having to put three pairs of socks on everyday! I haven't been able to make up my mind about what I want for Christmas, but I think I have finally decided... I want some creepers.
They are the beautiful, ugly shoe. I had some leopard print ones years back but ended up losing them (I honestly don't know where, it still bugs me to this day), I've always been a massive fan. I need some back in my life.
So I got looking on the Underground website & found these styles that I love.

I think the bottom pair is my favourite because they're quite slimline and I love the slightly pointed toe. I think they could work with so many different outfits & they could add the grunge element to an outfit which is what I love. They cost £79 which I don't think is too bad for a pretty decent, sturdy pair of shoes. I think I'd get a lot of wear out of them too!
What's your opinion on creepers? Do you love or hate them?

Thanks for reading
x

P.s I am now on tumblr here! At the moment I'm kind of seeing it as my sad blog & this is my happy, fashion one haha! (I'm actually a closet goth) I think I should keep certain subjects away from here & seeing as I lost a follower since my last depressing post, you think I should too! Haa.
Anyway make sure you leave a comment with your tumblr URL's or ones you love & I'll have a look cos I'm very new to the whole thing & I'm looking for ones to follow!

Weekly Segment #4

2011-12-19T11:18:00.000Z

1. Not posted one of these in a while, it's all been non-stop this December. To say it's been an emotional rollercoster would be an understatement. Lots has gone on to make it possibly the worst few weeks I've had in a long long time. I'm not going to go into it as it's all a little too personal but I may not feel like posting for a while.

2. The photo above was taken a few weeks ago & I've since changed my fringe to a full one. I fancied a change, so I cut it one evening on a whim. I think I like it, but I need to get it cut professionally because my D.I.Y isn't great!

3. I've finally finished my 1st semester of my 3rd year, although it's not exactly a festive break! I have a massive portfolio deadline at the end of January so I'm working on it all over Christmas. It's all a bit scary that I'm nearly half way through the final year of my degree. It seems like just a few months ago that I started & I can't believe I have lived away from home for over 2 years!

4. I can't believe it's already Christmas this weekend. I was so excited for weeks & weeks, but I've been so busy that I haven't had the chance to buy any presents or even any food for Christmas day. I have a feeling there's going to be a last minute dash to Iceland & M&S at the end of the week!

5. I'm heading back home to Essex for a week in the new year. It's much needed & deserved. I've just been thinking so much over the last few weeks how much I can't wait to move home. Fingers crossed I can get a job in the city & have a fresh start.

6. That's all for now, I'm aware this post sounds so ominous & depressing. I'm just hoping everything will go back to normal (whatever normal may be) soon & I can concentrate on my studies & a brand new year.

Thanks for reading
x

The Perfect Leather Jacket

2011-12-11T17:43:00.001Z

IL2L Manchester Bloggers Meet Competition Entry

Now when looking at my style you wouldn't really put me in a leather jacket. I've tried them on in shops then always put them straight back on the rail. Maybe it's my confidence thinking that I can't pull one off, but they just always look too bulky for my shape or cling in the wrong places. I'm your typical 12-14 hourglass shaped girl who likes things to be just a little bit bigger so they don't appear unflattering. I suppose that's the styling student in me! But looking through different blogs seeing leather jackets look amazing on girls of all different shapes & sizes, I thought there's gotta be one style that suits me, right?
When looking through the lovely collection of jackets on the IL2L website, I just couldn't make my mind up on what jacket to blog about! I'm definitely not a Barbour jacket kinda girl, neither am I a bomber jacket or gilet kinda girl. But then after being incredibly indecisive I found this.

Now I have always been a hoody kind of girl! I love the hooded style & the soft, casual, lightweight look of the leather. I'm pretty sure it would suit any shape or size & I am pretty darn sure that this could finally be the leather jacket for me.

I would layer it up with jeans, luscious soft knits & studded boots in the winter like these Topshop beauties.

& for the Spring months when there's still a chill in the air, I would wear it to toughen up pretty summer dresses. I can just imagine wearing it with these dresses of mine below & other various items in my wardrobe!

I'm quite certain this jacket & I were made for each other.

So there's my entry & good luck to all the other lovely ladies who entered :) Thank you to IL2L for running this exciting competition & thanks to Sarah for organising it all!

Thanks for reading

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2011-12-05T15:39:00.000Z

Hello you lovely lot! Firstly I want to say hi to all my new followers (& of course everyone else too!) I really appreciate that you take the time to comment/follow & it still surprises me that you all take the time to read what I have to say!

It's all feeling rather festive at the moment isn't it?! It's definitely my favourite time of the year, when it turns December & it's finally acceptable to put up the Christmas tree! The thing I love most about the festive period is spending time with my family, drinking mulled wine & generally feeling happy & cosy at home. This year however, will be my boyfriend & I's first proper Christmas together, as we won't have time to travel down to Essex this year. I'm a little sad about not seeing our families over the holiday, but I am excited to being a domestic goddess for the day & rustling up a (hopefully) delicious Christmas feast.

We put the tree up over the weekend - I'm pretty sure all the decorations & tree are from Wilko's. I picked up the little dog tree decorations on Saturday, when I saw them I couldn't not buy them! Although they are just made from thick felt so you could more than easily make some. The tree itself has nothing on Claire's (jealous much!) & it's stood on a pile of magazines as it's so small, but I still love it. Next year I vow to get the biggest one that will fit in the room ha ha! Next on my festive to do list is to finish all my Christmas shopping!

In other news, my course mates & I held our fashion show on the 1st December which went down so well! I won't give much away as I will dedicate a whole post to that & I want to get hold of some of the professional photographs to show you! & now that's over it's back to normal & my never-ending pile of work. No rest for the wicked eh?

Are you all excited for Christmas yet?

Thanks for reading!
X

Manchester Bloggers Meet ♥

2011-11-29T17:54:00.002Z

A glimpse of what I wore, (underneath many layers!)

On Sunday was the Manchester blogger meet up & what a lovely day it was! We had a look around the shops, went for hot drinks, to the Christmas markets & then for delicious pizza. As you can see most of my photos are from the pretty markets. They were so Christmassy & there were festive treats for as far as the eye could see! Although they were extremely busy, you can't deny there's something so special about the markets.

Cold & hungry bloggers! Leanne, Sarah, Lizzy, me, Emma, & Stacey (minus Sarah who I stole this photo from)

We then went for food at Croma Pizza. The pizza & puddings were amazing! We also had a little quiz where we won some cute prizes donated by Clippy and Dainty Roses.

I met some truly lovely girls, everyone was so friendly & it was a fab day. I really hope to see them all again soon! Make sure you look at all of there blogs too for their own rendition of the day!

Stacey, Sarah, Leanne, Lizzy, Emma, Sara, Nathalie, Jen & of course thanks to Sarah for organising the whole day.

Thank you also to IL2L for running the competition for all those who attended, I will be writing up my post for that very soon!

I hope you enjoyed these festive pictures, the whole day made me feel more excited for the festive season than ever!

Thanks for reading!

I ♥ New Clothes #4

2011-11-26T21:58:00.000Z

& new makeup too!

Hi everyone, I hope you are all enjoying your weekends despite the horrid weather! I thought I'd share some of my recent makeup/beauty purchases with you today. Sometimes I actually prefer buying makeup to clothes, because it always makes me feel better!
I've been using quite a few new products lately, all of which I really like! I tend to stick to the same makeup routine for months at a time but I get so bored of it! So I wanted to treat myself to something different.
Yesterday I went into Boots where they currently have 3 for 2 on all Max Factor products, amazing!

I picked up a new Xperience foundation, the Mastertouch concealer & the Elixir lipstick in Dusty Rose. I love all of these products! I have previously used the foundation but I am going back to it after using Benefit You Rebel tinted moisturiser. It was bought it for my & it's lovely but it's definitely one more for the summer! I love being pale in the winter. The mastertouch concealer is amazing! I have really dark circles under my eyes at the moment as I'm a little anaemic & it's something I'm really paranoid about! But the product is great & it covers them really well! I would definitely recommend it to anyone!
The lipstick is also lovely & it's one that locks in moisture so it just feels like you're wearing lipbalm!

I mentioned in my last post that I went to Topshop & bought their lipstick in dark plumb. I love it & I have been wearing a lot more than I thought I would!

I also mentioned I had bought these nail varnishes that I did my spotty nails with in the last post! I am still loving this colour & I've had so many compliments about it.

Finally I bought this facial moisturiser a few weeks ago when it was half price in Superdrug. I think normally it's about £8 so it was a bit of a bargain! It's a great moisturiser to put on before makeup as it sinks into your skin nicely. It also smells amazing! My only criticism is that I've found my skin gets a little more shiny during the day so I keep having to top up my powder & obviously that makes me get a few more blemishes. It was good to try out something new but I think I'll be looking for another one when I'm finished with this.

Did you notice my images are a lot sharper? That's because I finally bought a DSLR today! After months of saving, I saw a deal online today that I couldn't say no to. It's a bit more than I wanted to spend but it's so worth it. I have to say I am very impressed with the Jessops collect in store service. Within minutes of ordering it online, they sent me a text to say it was available for me to collect & pay for in store. So I got it for the online price & I didn't have to pay or wait around for delivery!
& as for the camera, well it's absolutely amazing & I am so so happy with it. Knowing that I've saved up for it for all that time makes it all the more satisfying. So expect better quality pictures from now on!

Tomorrow I am off to the bloggers meet in Manchester or #mancbloggersmeet if you're on twitter! This meet up has been organised by the lovely Sarah of Sequin This. I cannot wait to meet everyone, although I'm very nervous as I'm so socially awkward! So if you are going please let me know & I look forward to meeting you :)

Thanks for reading!
x

Weekly Segment #3

2011-11-20T22:29:00.000Z

1. Hi! I'm afraid I haven't got all that much to share with you today. Not very much has been going on the past couple of weeks & it's been a bit quiet. Although it's going to be a busy few weeks, so I need to mentally prepare myself for it! Definitely looking forward to getting the next few weeks over & done with uni-wise.

2. I need your advice fellow bloggers! I want to invest in a DSLR for university & general use, but I'm really confused as to what one I should buy. I was going to buy the Canon EOS 1100D or 1000D but I've been put off by so many people saying they are really basic/not great quality etc. I am not a beginner but I can't afford a super duper one! What do you all use? Canon or Nikon, etc? Where's cheap & trustworthy to buy from etc?

3. Do you like my nails? I'm quite pleased with them, seeing as they are my first ever attempt at 'nail art'! On Friday I went shopping for some makeup & came home with a Topshop lipstick in dark plumb, a Barry M plumb nail varnish & a new white polish. I'm loving purple at the moment if you hadn't guessed! For my nails I just added white spots onto the purple with the end of a tiny paintbrush, which explains why they're not perfect! They remind me of the toadstools in the Mario games!

4. There's no picture of my face this week because I am quite unsightly at the moment. I am still recovering from being unwell & my hair is horrendous - desperately need to get it cut but I'm really unsure of what to do with my fringe! I need some hair inspo! I am feeling so much better this weekend though & I am SO happy to say that! Fingers crossed it stays that way.

5. On Friday I am taking part in something called 'The Stylist's Closet' at the Trafford Centre in Manchester. I, along with some classmates & others from UCLan, will be there giving out style advice & tips to the public who would like some guidance. It should be a really great experience, as I'm really quite interested in personal styling. I just love helping people find outfits & clothes that look great on them & that make them feel great & more confident in themselves.

6. Also very excited about the bloggers meet in Manchester next weekend. It will be so lovely to meet some new people, especially other bloggers. So if you are going I will see you there :)

And that's all I have to share this week, nothing exciting! I will be posting another 'I ♥ new clothes' next week so keep an eye out! But for now I am going to continue sipping my mulled wine & get an early night, ready for an extremely productive day tomorrow!
Thanks for reading.
X

November Wishlist ♥

2011-11-17T11:57:00.000Z

I go through phases of loving Topshop & I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with them. I think it's mainly because of the ridiculous prices - yes you have beautiful clothes but £32 for a t-shirt? No thank you! But at the moment I can't get enough of Topshop. The amount of time I have spent drooling over things on the website is crazy, so if somebody would kindly give me a £500 giftcard that would be amazing thanks!
I don't know what it is about the brand & the Christmas season, but they seem to get it spot on every year. The lush crushed velvets, the black leather & silver stud detail, the chunky heels & boots - I'm basically in my fashion element.

1. Allegra boots 2. Studded velvet dress 3. Velvet Lace Collar playsuit 4. Vintage Lace Embroidered Dress 5. Double chain ring 6. Velvet spotted dress

These are just a few things I'm lusting after at the moment. I don't want to be a complete blogger cliche but the more I see the Topshop Allegra boots, the more I want them. I first posted about them here, while I was looking for the perfect winter shoe. I think they just look so lovely & can make any outfit, so I might just have to put them on my Christmas list or save up my pennies!

How beautiful is the velvet navy playsuit? I fell head over heels as soon as I laid eyes on it yesterday. The long sleeves & lace collar make me adore it even more. I'm also totally in love with the velvet studded black dress, but at £120 I don't think I'll be purchasing it any time soon!

The purple velvet skater style dress would be my perfect Christmas party dress, I could imagine teaming it up with black opaques, the Allegra boots & my new H&M grey faux fur collar. To be honest that would be my ideal outfit for any day not just a Christmas party! Ooooh if only!

For the rest of the day I am going to be working hard, trying to get lots of uni work done & not obsessing over dresses. I can only hope that Santa is reading, otherwise I might have to whip out the Topshop card!

Thanks for reading!

Never Forget.

2011-11-13T12:01:00.000Z

Greater Love
- Wilfred Owen

Red lips are not so red
As the stained stones kissed by the English dead.
Kindness of wooed and wooer
Seems shame to their love pure.
O Love, your eyes lose lure
When I behold eyes blinded in my stead!

Your slender attitude
Trembles not exquisite like limbs knife-skewed,
Rolling and rolling there
Where God seems not to care;
Till the fierce Love they bear
Cramps them in death's extreme decrepitude.

Your voice sings not so soft, -
Though even as wind murmuring through raftered loft, -
Your dear voice is not dear,
Gentle, and evening clear,
As theirs whom none now hear
Now earth has stopped their piteous mouths that coughed.

Heart, you were never hot,
Nor large, nor full like hearts made great with shot;
And though your hand be pale,
Paler are all which trail
Your cross through flame and hail:
Weep, you may weep, for you may touch them not.

Weekly Segment #2

2011-11-06T22:49:00.001Z

Hi everyone! I hope you have all enjoyed bonfire night & the pretty fireworks. I live in the city centre so I saw loads from my living room window! I can't believe tomorrow will be the second week of November already, I will be facing all my deadlines before I know it blerrgh.

1. So not a lot to share with you today, I'm gradually feeling better day by day but I keep having funny spells :( I just want to be healthy again & have my 'get up and go' back. I get my blood test results tomorrow, so fingers crossed I can know what's going on with my poor body!

2. I did get out to the shops today & do a teeny bit of Christmas shopping. I have pretty much all my presents planned now & hopefully I can get them sorted before the massive Christmas rush! I am determined to be organised this year!

3. Lots going on at uni this week! I'm so behind because of being poorly & we got a new group assignment brief last week so needless to say I'm rather stressed out eeek. But hopefully I can get back on top of it.

4. The second image above is how I've been painting my nails lately. I love it because it looks like I'm good at doing nails when I'm actually not! It's just Barry M turquoise & black crackle effects.

5. I bought a faux fur stole! I got the grey version of the one I posted here from H&M because I couldn't justify spending £25 on the ASOS one, even if it was bloody beautiful.

6. Finally, would you be interested in seeing a Q&A section on the blog?

That's all for now, I hope you all had a lovely weekend.
Thanks for reading!
X

I ♥ New Clothes #3

2011-11-04T17:27:00.002Z

Hi guys, so I haven't posted about anything I've bought for a while have I? Between August & now I've bought/received some really lovely bits that I'd like to show you. I never got round to doing a post on what I received for my birthday, but a lot of those things will be in these next few posts.

It's great to be doing these sorts of posts again because over the summer I was completely broke & couldn't afford food let alone clothes! But other than being my birthday in September, I also got my student loan through & my last wages from New Look so I had to abuse my staff discount before I left!
I apologise for the poor quality photos, until I get a card reader I can't get photos from my camera onto my macbook! So I improvised & used Photo Booth!

Leopard print sheer shirt & Pretty Polly tights - New Look - Beatles tee & leopard print skirt - H&M - Pleated faux leather skirt & dotted tights - Primark - Bamboo tights - Boots - Black & brown faux leather boots - Primark

The leopard print shirt & faux leather skirt is my new favourite outfit & when I'm feeling well again I will get some photos! I seem to be drawn to anything leopard/animal print & anything black at the moment so these things tick everything in my book!

I bought these boots & the pleated skirt when I went to Liverpool a few weeks ago & although I was mega happy with what I bought, I was a bit overwhelmed with the Primark! Errr could you have anymore floors? I almost had a fit trying to get out again + the woman who served me basically said the skirt was disgusting & stupid aha (who asked you lady, really?)

I won't waffle on much more, except to say these boots are actually amazing. Best thing I've bought from Primark in ages. If you've been reading this blog for a while, you will know how much I struggle with finding good shoes on a small budget. They were only £15 & are so comfy, but the best thing about them? My feet don't get wet. I'm not sure how long they'll last, but for now I'm happy ♥

- What's your favourite recent purchase?

Thanks for reading
X

Winter Shopping List #1

2011-10-31T17:07:00.002Z

Hello everyone, thank you so much for all your lovely comments & well wishes. I'm still poorly, thought I was on the mend but it turns out I'm not, boo. I feel so drained of energy & positivity, it's really bumming me out! The doctor thinks it's developed into glandular fever, but is sending me for lots of different blood tests tomorrow to make sure, so I'll hopefully be feeling better soon.

So, this could be a yet another new feature for the blog. I'm always on the hunt for particular things & I find blogs so helpful for inspiration. (I hope you're enjoying these new features - these are the things I really get inspired to write about & it will give the blog a lot more structure too)

So the thing I'm currently on the hunt for is a faux fur stole/lapel/scarf. After years of wanting one but not feeling confident enough to wear it, I've decided that I should just go for it. I just can't seem to find the perfect one though. I've seen the most beautiful ones on lots of blogs but they're always from last winter or years ago, typical!

Black & Grey Faux Fur Lapel Collars - both ASOS

I love both of these so much, & the black is currently reduced to £20 & the grey is £25. My only issue is that £20- £25 seems a bit expensive & I can't see how it looks on before buying it. Then the next problem is which colour to go for! The black would look lovely with one of my coats but I somehow think the grey would be more versatile. What do you think?

There's also this one from H&M. It's £12.99 but I've seen this one IRL & it's quite small. I still can't quite decide if a want a big statement one like the ASOS ones, or a more subtle one... Decisions, decisions. I can just imagine snuggling up in the grey one from ASOS, on those bitter cold mornings that you struggle to leave the house! - I think it's clear that my heart has already chosen the grey ♥

-What do you all think, have you seen any nice, inexpensive ones on the high-street you would recommend?

Thanks for reading

Weekly Segment #1

2011-10-29T12:00:00.003+01:00

Hi guys, this is another new feature I've decided to do on the blog! I've been feeling like the blog is becoming more & more impersonal lately & unless you follow my twitter you won't really know what I've been up to or why I haven't posted in a while etc, etc.
I know other blogs have these update posts, such as the most obvious Lily & her 'Sunday Portrait' feature, but I think it's a really nice way of becoming closer to readers & I quite enjoy reading them myself so I hope you don't think this is just a massive copycat feature. I've been feeling a little emotionally detached from the blog, so I hope you don't mind these rambling posts. I think it'll be a good way to get to know me better too!

1. So if you're wondering why I look so miserable in the above picture, it's because I have had tonsillitis for about 3 weeks now. I don't mean to sound over dramatic but I've been in excruciating pain every day & it's prevented me from doing pretty much everything! I couldn't even talk for a while as it was too painful. Thankfully, I am now on the mend & today is the first day in ages I've woken up without a swollen throat & I am feeling positive & can finally get back to doing normal things #yay (note this is a scheduled post, knowing my luck this all would have changed by the time you all read this!)

2. I am now tweeting/blogging/working on my new MacBook! It's second hand but runs like a dream compared to my old laptop. It also has all the software I need for uni & it's basically a life saver!

3. I'm currently doing a menswear styling project which is alien to me seeing as I've only ever done womenswear & still life styling before. I'm enjoying it though & will hopefully get some great images for my portfolio.

4. Tonight is the dreaded Halloween party & the occasion where I'm forced to dress up against my own will. God I hate fancy dress. I've decided on the biggest cop-out costume ever - a cat. Black outfit & a mask. Easy peasy.

5. I know it's early yet & people will probably hate me for saying this but I'M SO EXCITED FOR CHRISTMAS. It's the first year in a long time where I've been this excited, I think it's because I no longer work in retail & I don't dread the horrible stressed out customers. I'm going to be doing lots of DIY Christmas presents & I will do tutorial posts if they turn out successful.

6. Finally, I hate to ask but please could you all do me a massive favour & follow me through bloglovin'? Or those of you who did before, could you please re-follow? Since the whole changing my blog name & URL hoo-har, it's messed up my bloglovin' account. You can follow here :) Or click the link on the sidebar. Thank you so much!

I hope you enjoyed this new feature :)
Thanks for reading!
X

Celeb Style: Blake Lively

2011-10-27T23:30:00.001+01:00

So this is a new feature for the blog, where I will show you my favourite latest celebrity style & how to get it for less.
To kick off this feature, here is one of my absolute style icons Blake Lively. She rarely gets it wrong & always looks so chic in everything she wears. I love her style in Gossip Girl & in real life too!

Image Source

1. ASOS 2. Topshop 3. New Look 4. Religion at New Look 5. Topshop 6. Topshop
(Pumpkin optional)

I love how tailoring can be so feminine & sexy & I absolutely love skinny jeans with chunky heels. How amazing are the Topshop dalmatian Mary-Jane heels? If only I had a spare £100!

I'm also in love with that Religion bag too, I think it would add edge to any plain outfit.

I think a plain white tee can look really simple but chic with a black blazer & although Blake Lively would look amazing in a potato sack, I think many shapes could pull off this look - you obviously just need to find a cut of jean & blazer that flatters your figure.

I would say this is the perfect outfit for any occasion if you want to look smart/casual. You could switch to flats for a more casual feel, but I think I would love to wear this sort of outfit to a job interview or for an evening out.

I bet you could get this look for cheaper than this, but I just absolutely loved all of these items from the high street. I think it has so much to offer at the moment, especially Topshop & ASOS!

-What do you think of this feature?

- Which celebrities would you like to see their look for less next?

Thanks for reading!

Home Sweet Home

2011-10-23T21:34:00.000+01:00

Hi guys! Things have been so hectic lately, I can't quite believe it's November soon - TIME pleeeeease slow down?! Soon it will be February & I'll have to start applying for proper grown up jobs!

The clothes & bakesale for uni went very well, we made roughly half the money we need so we're going to have another one in a couple of weeks with more customised clothes.

So I have come back to Essex for the weekend for my sister's birthday & also to collect my new laptop! Yes I finally have a macbook wooohoo, I can finally do my projects with ease & take it to uni to work on. Next on my list is a DSLR. Which should I get, a Canon or Nikon?

Onto the outfit; I bought this dress yesterday from H&M after seeing it a few weeks ago & falling in love with it. These pictures were taken whilst we were taking a walk around the surrounding fields of my village. It was pretty warm today, I just wore it with this leopard print scarf I also bought from H&M recently, so there's a bit of an animal print theme going on!

It's the perfect dress for my shape. These photos don't do it justice! It covers my arms, it's not low cut, it has an elasticated waist & it skims my hips. What more could you want in a dress? The only thing is that it's a little short - I'm quite sure it's meant to be a tunic but nevermind!

Here are a few other photos I took when we were out.

Pretty huh?

X

Clothing & Bakesale at the UCLan Student Union!

2011-10-13T22:34:00.000+01:00

Hi everyone! Just a quick post today to tell you a little about 'The Style Stop Shop' that's being held in the Student Union at UCLan tomorrow! It's being run by all of us 3rd year Fashion Promotion with Styling students to raise money for a big fashion show that we're organising for 1st December.

If you are planning to come into Preston tomorrow, you should definitely pop into the SU, as we'll be selling second-hand, vintage & customised clothing as well as many delicious cakes! We'll be there from about 9am-4pm so don't miss out on some amazing bargains!

UCLan Student's Union,
Fylde Road,
Preston,
Lancashire,
PR1 2TQ

Thanks for reading everyone & if you do pop in, it would be lovely to meet you as I know a few of you are from Preston :)
X

Preston Vintage & Craft Fair

2011-10-09T22:52:00.001+01:00

Hi everyone, I've obviously been a bit absent again. University is literally taking over my life! We've only been back 3 weeks or so & we've already had about 87463845 briefs & of course uni is my biggest priority so the blog gets a little neglected. I promise I will one day find that balance! & it will be 100 times easier when I finally get a new computer. I've had my current laptop for nearly 5 years & it is dying a slow & painful death, but I'm getting a macbook in a couple of weeks& I'm so so excited!

Anyway, this afternoon Rachelle & I went to the local vintage & craft fair in Preston organised by Not Just Vintage UK. It was held at The Continental pub which is just off Avenham Park which I'm always on about on here! It was a bit of a grotty day so I got all wrapped up in my faux fur leopard jacket (I wish I had of got a photo of my outfit, I'm a bad blogger!) and we went along to see if we could find any little gems.

Although it was a little fair, there were lots of lovely things to see. Those cupcakes looked so delish & how amazing is that vinyl cake stand?! I might even attempt to make one myself if I ever find the time.

This seller was called Dolly Blue & she sold the cutest homemade owl cushions and other decorations. This was by far my favourite craft stall, probably because I have such a thing for cartoon owls/birds!

This was one of my favourite vintage stalls, Roxy Valetta. She had the most beautiful collection of vintage clothing, I fell in love with a few dresses & jumpers I would have snapped up if I had the money (student woes) ! Sabina organises the Sutton Vintage & Arts Fair, so if you do live in or around the midlands I suggest you check out the facebook page here & pop along one time! I would love to go to be big fair like this so I might try to get to the one in late November to look for some pretty Christmas gifts!

Some more sellers with pretty things I wanted to buy! These necklaces were too amazing for words.

Unfortunately these were the only things I bought today! They were from the Dolly Blue stall & was £1.50 for the scrabble ring & £1 for the domino brooch. So cheap! There was so much more I could have bought, but as I'm on a sort of spending ban I behaved myself in aid to save money for a new camera.

So I hope you have found this post interesting to look at! To those on twitter who said they'd like to see this post I hope you liked it! I know my imagery isn't fantastic but I do my best with my point & shoot + photoshop!

I promise I'll be back with an outfit post soon, as I still haven't shown you what I got with my birthday money & recently etc etc.

Thanks for reading!

P.s I really apologise for not always commenting back. I appreciate every single comment I receive. I do my best to keep up to date with blogs but as I said before, uni has taken over my life so I rarely even get time to post! However I will make more of an effort, as I think it's a really important part of blogging x

What's in my uni bag...

2011-09-23T15:49:00.000+01:00

So, I thought it was about time for the obligatory blogger 'What's in my bag' post. I've wanted to do one for quite a while but I thought seeing as my life has once again been taken over by university that I'd show you what I have to lug around from day to day.

First off, this is my new bag for uni. I was hunting around for one the perfect size and preferably in black but I couldn't find any nice, big or cheap enough. I decided on this one from New Look as I was trying to make the most of my staff discount before I left. I think I grabbed this for about a tenner in the end! It's huge & has about 50 compartments so it's perfect for uni.

My 2011-2012 diary/planner from WHSmiths, Notepad & Accessorize pencil case

My glasses case (which also has my pen-drives inside), paracetamol, Blackberry, super old Loungefly purse, ipod classic & my flat keys! I also always carry a massive bottle of water with me.

Vintage makeup bag, umbrella (guaranteed rain every single day in Preston)

And inside my 'makeup bag': antibacterial hand gel, Max Factor lip stain, pressed powder, makeup brush, Hello Kitty compact mirror, chewing gum, hair brush, tissues, Vaseline.

So that's what's in my uni bag. Not an overly interesting post. I always read other bag posts & I always love being nosey! They always have pretty stationary & lovely things in their bags whereas I found a mouldy old banana in the bottom of mine that I'd forgotten about.

I'm going to do my best to get back into blogging. All I can think about right now is all my new uni briefs so as soon as I get organised I will hopefully be able to get back to posting once or twice a week.

Also, my boyfriend & I are going to stay in a lovely B&B up in the Lake Discrict tomorrow as a late birthday treat! So I'll get lots of pretty photographs & share them all with you!

Thanks for reading x

So many things, so little time.

2011-09-05T15:38:00.001+01:00

Hi everyone,

I'm so sorry for being an awful blogger last month! As you might know, I've been in Essex for the past three weeks because it's been my sister's hen do, wedding and then my birthday! I'm planning to do a post showing you my birthday goodies but that will be in a few days.

I've also been doing lots of uni work, as we were sent a summer project & we have to create a photoshoot based on a chosen flower. I still have lots to do on that but I'll let you know how that goes! I start university again on the 20th, I am so glad that I can finally go back! It has been a heck of a long summer and I've been rather bored if I'm honest! Maybe that's just because I didn't have a holiday or anything, but it's just dragged. I'm also excited but nervous because I've decided to quit my part-time/Saturday job in Preston. I haven't enjoyed myself there for a long while and I'm fed up of working in retail! I want to spend the year concentrating on my uni work and enjoying my last year as much as I can and not worrying about a job that I hate!

So I thought I would show you my outfit today, sorry it's not the best of photos but I haven't got my tripod here & there was nobody to take photos for me! They're not even edited, oops.

Skirt & Tee - H&M

Necklace - Primark

This is a really casual outfit as I'll be travelling later & have been doing bits & bobs around the house today. If you remember, these were all featured in this post. I'll be wearing this with my leopard print beauties from my last post and maybe a black jersey blazer for my train journey.

I hope you all had a beautiful weekend. I'll see you all again soon!

Rebecca

I'm in love...

2011-08-24T14:54:00.000+01:00

With my new shoes ♥

Last week my sister & I were in London so we decided to pop to Oxford Street for a mooch around the shops. I've wanted to visit Forever 21 since it opened so that was our first stop. I must say Forever 21 impressed me rather a lot! I loved how big the store was & how much variety they had. They would be something for everyone in there I think! Sadly I didn't have any money to buy any clothes but I bought the most amazing shoes & also some jewellery! They are brilliant for jewellery as they have so much choice!

So here they are, my beloved new shoes..

Leopard print + silver buckles + black pleather = me happy happy! When I saw these I knew I had to have them & they will take pride in my shoe collection! I mentioned a while ago that I was looking for some Autumn/Winter shoes & whereas these won't be completely weather-proof they will keep my feet warm at least. I think these will be making many appearances within my outfits throughout the A/W.

Before I go, I want to apologise for my lack of posting! I'm home in Essex for a while so I've been super busy! And on Friday is my sister's wedding. If you remember, I was trying to lose weight for it & I'm currently at 7lbs but I still have a long way to go after the wedding too! I'm hoping to get to my ideal weight by the end of the year so fingers crossed I can get there.

So I don't know when I'll next be posting but I'm planning to do a birthday wishlist seeing as it's my birthday next week! (1st September!)

Thanks for reading x

P.s Thanks for all of your lovely comments on my last post, I'm glad you all enjoyed it! I didn't get through to the shortlist which I was mega bummed about but I'm going to keep entering the Look Competition until I do get through!!

Take a LOOK at Rebecca's Vintage Romance

2011-08-07T18:33:00.001+01:00

My Look Magazine Blogger Competition Entry

Ever since I was about 8 years old, I have been fascinated by the fashion industry. I was always doodling outfits I wanted to wear & so so excited whenever I received hand-me-downs from my older sister. It took me a while to really open up to fashion & really find my own style. At school I was forever trying to fit in so that I could be invisible. I was so quiet & shy but I liked it that way. I used to buy things that other girls at school were wearing & what my friends thought were 'cool', but it never, ever felt like 'me'. I would then get home & spend hours reading magazines looking at all the amazing clothes.

It took me a while to realise that my future was in fashion. When I was at college I thought I wanted to be a photographer, then I eventually ended up working as a Health Care Assistant where I cared for the elderly. It was one day when I was driving home from an awful shift at the hospital that I realised I HAD to do fashion. The next month I had applied to do various fashion courses at university. When I was accepted onto a Fashion Promotion with Styling course, I knew it was the best decision I had ever made & I have never looked back. It may sound cheesy but fashion is everything I am, it runs through my veins & it's what I spend most of the day thinking about. Every night before I go to sleep I am mentally creating the outfit I will wear the next day!

I started my own blog a little over a year ago, after constantly reading some of the most beautiful blogs out there, so I decided to have a go myself. Blogging is now as much a part of me as fashion itself is. I love the community the 'blogger world' has as there's always people to comfort you, give you advice & most importantly inspire you!

I like to think this blog has really developed my style & it has given me confidence to dress exactly how I want & to just be myself. I used to want to be invisible, but now it's my time to shine. I found fashion a long time ago & now it's finally found me.

So blogging & fashion are my two favourite things in the world. Put them together & pick me to blog at the LOOK fashion show & I will be the HAPPIEST girl in the blogosphere! It is my dream to have a career writing about fashion, whether it be for a magazine, online, or anywhere really! I should be in that front row.

I deserve to win this competition & you deserve someone as passionate about fashion as I am. So please please consider my little blog & I in this competition. It would be the BEST THING EVER if I won. If I don't I will spend days crying into my look-a-like Alexa.

Thanks for reading!

I ♥ New Clothes #2

2011-08-05T22:36:00.001+01:00

Hi guys!
I am feeling rather jolly today! Firstly my new diet is going well that I started this week & I have lost 4lbs since Monday wooop! I got off the scales & did a merry little dance. I feel so good when I know the boring meals & feeling hungry all the time is working. My aim is to lose about 10lbs before my sister's wedding at the end of the month, so fingers crossed I'll do it!
Secondly, I was able to treat myself to some new clothes today which has inspired this post & new occasional feature. I was hunting over the internet looking for things to buy but I was totally uninspired. But when I went into town I was pleasantly surprised with what I found.

Red tee- H&M - Silver cross necklace - Primark - Peacock feather necklace - Primark (Dun dun dun peacock dreams)

Black & white print shorts - H&M

Red velvet skirt - Primark - Striped skirt - H&M

Black floppy hat - New Look

I was practically dancing round the shops today picking up these bits & bobs. One of the reasons is because I spent under £30 on all of this. The red tee & striped skirt are from the H&M basics range therefore pretty cheap & the shorts were only £7.99! I don't know what I was shocked at more - the fact I was buying shorts or the fact they were under a tenner. But so so can't wait to wear these eeee!

The red velvet skirt is kind of hideous & I can't work out whether that's in a good or just a disgusting way? I love it though & it looks better on. Oh yeah & it was just £1! Couldn't say no.

Finally, the floppy hat is my new fave piece of head attire! I had it in mind for my sister's hen do but I think I'll be able to wear it & adjust it through seasons. Overall I'm in love with today! After the ridiculously rubbish day I had yesterday this made up for it. I'll make sure I get these bits in some outfit posts soon.

P.S. I've decided to enter the Look blogging competition! I'm feeling so much better & inspired about this blog now & I've fallen in love with blogging all over again so I've just got to make my entry stand out! Expect to see it on Sunday!

Sorry I ramble SO MUCH!

Thanks for reading lovelies!

Leopard Bint.

2011-08-03T10:00:00.002+01:00

I am a little obsessed with leopard print at the moment. I've always been a fan of animal prints but they don't seem to make it into my wardrobe very often. Mainly because the colours are slightly off for my skin tone and it doesn't always come in styles that suit my shape.

I'm currently on the hunt for some reasonably priced pieces to add to my 'new style' wardrobe & also for my sister's hen do, which is in a couple of weeks (I'm going to be posting about that separately!)

Clockwise from top left: Camilla Playsuit by Goldie @ Topshop - Warehouse Skinny leopard belt - New Look leopard peep toe courts - ASOS T-bar pumps - ASOS skater dress - Miss Selfridge Animal Print Dip Back Dress

After hunting over the internet for some leopard loveliness, I found these shoes & dresses. Now I NEED a leopard print dress in my life. Not just want, need. I am kind of in love with the Goldie playsuit, everything except for the price. The Miss Selfridge dress is more within my price range but I think it could possibly make me look a little frumpy... which is exactly what I'm trying to avoid! What do you think?

When it comes to the shoes those New Look courts would be £10 for me on discount. And they're the perfect height & with a chunky heel so I would probably be able to walk in them which is always a plus!
As for the ASOS T-bars I can see me wearing them all the time... may have to treat myself to those in September!

So what do you all think of leopard print? I think it can look really edgy & glam & you can wear it so many ways. One of my faves ♥

New & Old

2011-08-01T23:57:00.001+01:00

Errr hi! So where on earth did July go? I'm quite sure I just slept & worked through it. I'm pretty pleased it's August already though, lots of exciting things happening this month!

So I just thought I'd update you with a few things,

Firstly, as you can see I changed my blog name back to Rebecca's Vintage Romance. For many different reasons. And I missed my header too much! So I'm keeping the old name but you guys will have to get used to seeing different sorts of things on here; a lot more designer & high street fashion amongst other things. Keeping all the posts vintagey related gets me stumped for blog material. I've also changed my layout & background...... not sure whether I like it or not to be honest. Where can I find simple, nice layouts?

I am in such a style/image rut at the moment. I am massively bored with all my clothes but I have no money for anything new or even from charity shops. I'm meant to be a 'stylist' but I can style anyone apart from myself! I know what I'd love to wear but it's completely opposite to what's in my wardrobe. I need to start building a new wardrobe which means I'm probably going to start selling off a few things soon! I'm in absolute awe of Charlene's style, who's blog I have just discovered! So so inspiring.

For a few weeks now I have really cut down on junk food & have been doing more exercise. But today I've started a hardcore diet for up until my sister's wedding at the end of August. I've been unhappy with my figure for years & so this is a kick-start to a healthy new lifestyle!

Also, I'm saving for a new DSLR & laptop. I'm half way towards a new camera which is going to improve so many things in my life - uni work, personal photography & blog images! Can't flippin' wait! & should FINALLY be getting a new laptop in Sept/Oct with a little help from my student loan. I'll be asking for recommendations!

So that's about it! I'm going to start up my new features within the next week or so that I've been going on about for ages! Also I've added a 'Links' page to the blog! If you'd like to be added to it maybe we can do an exchange of links? (cheeky I know, but what's a blogger to do!?)

Thanks for reading! x

A look at Hero & Cape

2011-07-27T09:00:00.006+01:00

This quirky new indie fashion label 'Hero&Cape' popped up on twitter over the weekend & I've been intrigued ever since. So when they got in touch with a preview of their Lookbook I was thrilled to see what the brand is all about. Their website is launching this lunchtime with their first collection as a wonderful selection of white tees with hand-drawn illustrations - so cool & easy to wear with anything!

"Hero & Cape is a new British independent clothing label that makes you the hero of the story! We bring you T-shirts featuring creative hand drawn illustrations that are individually screen printed to order. We strive to bring products to you that are unique and different and Hero&Cape is driven by products that are as special to you as a superhero's cape!"

"All our designs are hand drawn in-house and incorporate all the creativity imagination we can squeeze out of our constantly (and sometimes a little loopy!) minds! T-shirts are also fully hand printed in-house, so every Hero&Cape T-shirt will receive all the care and attention as if it was going in our very own wardrobe!"

(Words from Hero&Cape)

I always love seeing new independent brands pop up online. We need something different to the monsters on the high street. I love to have clothes that stand out & not everybody has.Their quirky hand-drawn illustrations & attention to detail really caught my eye. All illustrations are by talented graphic designer Niki Lau.

I absolutely adore these tees! How lovely is that Scalloped Peter Pan collar tee?! They are so simple but the designs are bold & quirky - right up my street! On their website they will also be selling jewellery (as pictured) & stationery. I for one, cannot wait to have a mooch through their website.

When payday finally arrives, I may just have to buy the balloons tee.. it's so cute! Who said t-shirts couldn't be girly?

So be your own superhero & fly over to their website that's launching today! Or for more information on the brand you can also check out their lovely blog here.

Thanks for reading! x

Currently Wishing For: The Perfect Autumn/Winter Shoe

2011-07-21T21:56:00.000+01:00

Some people think it may be a little early to start looking for Autumn/Winter shoes, I however think it's the perfect time to start hunting for them. If you're lucky you will find some 'past season' boots in the sales, but unfortunately I'm not one of them! I've always had a dilemma with finding the perfect shoes for the cold, wet months. I've always suffered with having no appropriate shoes for snow & always end up screeching & on my bum! But this year I am determined to find my perfect winter shoes. After a lot of searching online today I think I may have one possibility that I'll be saving my pennies up for...

1. The Topshop Allegra boots. Now unsurprisingly sold out, these boots are amazinggg. Although I couldn't imagine these helping me keep my balance in the slightest.

2. The Topshop Maccoy Leopard Chelsea boots. I am in love with leopard print and I am in love with these boots. Probably not very waterproof but how I would love these in my wardrobe! I've been after some Chelsea boots for well over a year but never got any. Really kinda want these though! They would look amazing with blue skinnies and they're pretty cheap for Topshop... maybe they will have to go on my birthday list!

3. Liberty for Nike high-tops. I used to have an obsession with florals & I mean an obsession. Anything that had a floral print back in 2008/2009 had to be mine, no matter how unflattering, cheap or hideous. I still like a little bit of florals & I love these! Can't really afford the £72 though... shame.

4. Black Converse. Again, I've wanted some for so long. They've always been on the 'I want' list but I've never got round to buying any. I used to live in converse for about 5 years until they started to fall apart. I still have the same pair that used to be so vibrant & pink & are now more of an eggshell colour haha. Maybe they are another thing to add to the birthday list.

5. Black patent Dr Martens. Probably the ideal winter shoe/boot. Waterproof, sturdy & probably enough grip on the soles to walk up walls. However cool & practical they may be, I fear they would make my legs look like fat cocktail sausages. & there's no way I'm edgy enough for them either. In the words of Vince Noir: I'm about as edgy as a satsuma. So yeah... probably won't be investing anytime soon.

6. Vivienne Westwood for Melissa black booties. I remember posting about the red ones last year when I'd just started this blog. I never did get them, boo. But I think if I were to spend £90 on them, they would have to be versatile and go with most of my wardrobe. The red ones are so lovely, but I think if I were to get some, they would be the safe black ones.

7. Underground Apollo Monk Suede Pointed Toe Creepers. After seeing creepers on Camden market for years & years, I never would have imagined they would come onto the high street. But after the creeper inspired shoes from Prada, they were bound to catch on. These are being sold on ASOS & I'm pretty much in love with them. I think they'd be practical in the Autumn/winter months and they look amazing. I'm really considering splurging on these when my student loan comes in September!

8. Burberry Emblem Wellington boots. These are very much a wishful pair of wellies. At £125, they're not much more expensive than Hunters & I think I prefer these slimline, shiny black Burberry ones. As much as I love them, I doubt I'm going to have £125 to spend on anything, let alone a pair of wellington boots.

What do you think of this selection? Do you have any advice on some perfect A/W shoes?

Thanks for reading! x

F U N N Y B O N E S - a fresh start!

2011-07-19T21:39:00.000+01:00

Welcome to F U N N Y B O N E S!
I decided to go ahead with the name change for the blog, as I felt it needed refreshing & I wanted to make the whole blog more 'me'. Although some of you said you liked 'Rebecca's Vintage Romance', I just felt like it was restricting as to what I could post. Don't get me wrong, I adore vintage clothing & I have a fair bit of it... but just not enough to get regular posts out of. The last couple of months I've felt like each post was getting worse and less inspiring, so I hope you can understand that now I feel like I can post anything I like without being pigeon-holed into the vintage category as I love high-street & designer too (not that I own anything designer)!

I'm so excited about the name change. I chose it firstly as it was my favourite childhood story & I thought it was simple yet quirky & memorable. I have been brainstorming a hell of a lot lately & have lots of exciting ideas for new posts & features, which will be put into practice very soon! Eeeeep! I also added an 'About' page which I'm planning to add to over the next few weeks.

So to kick start the new image of the blog, I bring you *drum roll* a not so exciting outfit...opps. But I love it & it's comfy, especially when all I did today was watch Gossip Girl boxsets & nap for hours!

Alexisonfire tee - Ebay

Skirt - New Look

What do you think of the images? I know they're different to my usual scenic backdrops, but I finally managed to get some (what I would call) successful shots using my tripod! Although my facial expressions are unfortunate, I don't think they are too bad! I think I'll be posting like this more often now but of course I'll still get the boyfriend to take some outfit snaps if we're out & about!

Back to the outfit, the skirt is one of my favourite purchases EVER from work. The boyfriend says I look like a ballerina (although an awfully heavy one ha) because of the way it floats about & the colour is that typical ballerina pale pink. I like to toughen it up a little with band tees because it is a little too pretty. I got this Alexisonfire tee off Ebay years ago & I still love it (after cutting the collar off). The thing I love most about the skirt is that you can wear it through every season & you can make it really versatile. I would love to wear this with some J.C Litas - if only I had some, I wish!

So to wrap up this post, I really hope you like the new blog name (cos I do!) & I'm so so excited about getting it back on track and I'll be back soon with a new feature.

Thanks for reading! x

Spots & Stripes

2011-07-15T21:23:00.000+01:00

Today was another beautiful day in Preston... something I'm getting used to! Normally it's raining, grey or just too windy to go out anywhere without flashing your pants at some poor passer-by.

This morning I was woken up by the sun shining through the blinds and bright blue sky. I spent the morning reading my new magazines, eating strawberries & waiting for the boyfriend to get up so we could go out somewhere!

We treated ourselves to lunch (Boots meal deal) & went to the park once again to sit & eat. We're so lucky to have such a lovely park on our doorstep - it's less than a five minute walk away from the flat!

This is what I wore

Blouse & loafers - New Look

Skirt - Zara

Bag - H&M

Necklace - New Look

Ring - Primark

Watch - River Island

Nails - Barry M Orange & Nail Effects

This skirt is one of my favourite things in my wardrobe, it's so summery & pretty. I got it last year in the Zara sale & it's definitely my favourite Zara purchase ever. I thought it looked cute with this New Look sheer blouse. The blouse is so cool & floaty & has been one of my summer essentials!

The necklace is possibly the nicest thing I've bought since working at New Look, or definitely the most 'me' thing I've ever found! I love it so much & I pretty much haven't taken it off since I bought it.

One thing I have to mention while I'm here... I'm thinking of changing my blog's name. I feel like I have slightly grown out of it & I want something a little more simple. I also don't think I show enough 'vintage' on here either. Although I'm still having a love affair with all things vintage, I don't think the blog reflects it! What do you guys think? Do you like 'Rebecca's Vintage Romance' or do you think I should change it?

A garden of such beauty that the flowers seem to grin

2011-07-11T23:43:00.000+01:00

So today turned out to be a pretty, warm, sunny day! When I went to work at 9am it was a little warm but as I finished my shift at lunchtime I couldn't believe what gorgeous weather it was. I got home & the boyfriend & I decided to go for a stroll through the park.

I'm quite sure this park is featured on my blog a lot, but I don't think I've ever shown you just how pretty it is.

As you can see, I should have got changed after work before going out again. This was the most inappropriate attire for a hot afternoon! This skirt is woollen & tights & cardigan just added to the heat!

Top & loafers - New Look

Skirt - Zara

Bag - thrifted

Avenham Park is by far my favourite place to go in Preston. During the week it's usually so quiet & peaceful - the perfect place to go with a book. Sometimes I just sit on a bench alone & watch the world go by. I love to watch dogs playing with their owners (as I have two at home in Essex that I miss so much!). It makes me wish I had a pet up here.

The whole park is so well looked after & they're always doing work & improving it. The last photo is the 'Japanese Garden' which at it's peak was so beautiful with white blossom trees & lilys in the pond.

Where's your favourite chill out spot?

Recipe: Party Cupcakes ♥

2011-07-01T18:36:00.000+01:00

In my case, a party for two!

12 cakes

Ingredients:

4 1/2 oz butter/margarine

4 1/2 oz caster sugar

4 1/2 oz self raising flour

2 beaten eggs

1 tablespoon milk

1/2 a teaspoon vanilla essence

Blue food colouring (optional)

Buttercream icing:

15oz Icing sugar

6oz butter/margarine

1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence

Blue & Red food colouring (optional)

Method

Preheat oven to 180°C

1. Mix sugar & margarine together in a medium - large mixing bowl.

2. Add the already beaten eggs.

3. Gradually sieve in the flour, whilst folding it into the mixture.

4. Add the milk & vanilla essence.

5. Add the blue food colouring or colour of your choice. It takes quite a bit of blue colouring to make it as vibrant as pictured. Other times I have used pink, but the blue just stands out a lot more!

6. Spoon mixture into cupcake/muffin cases. I always fill them just over half way up to get delicious big cupcakes!

7. Leave in oven for about 15 minutes or until golden... To see if they're ready I always just press my finger on top - if they're springy they're ready!

To decorate

1. When the cakes have cooled down, mix the icing sugar & margarine together in a mixing bowl.

2. Mix & add more icing sugar if necessary, until you get it to the consistency that you want(it should be fairly thick).

3. Then add the vanilla essence & a splash of milk just to make it nice & creamy.

4. To make the icing purple, I mixed blue & a touch of red food colouring together (depending on what shade you want it).

5. Then spoon on the icing to each cake. If you haven't got a piping bag then just use the same spoon to create the swirly effect.

6. Then add hundreds & thousands and you are done!

Warning: Don't eat too many unless you want to be sick... like I did haha! X

I Wish...

2011-06-29T11:36:00.000+01:00

Now, I know I'm not alone when I spend hours dreaming of being somewhere else. The last couple of years I have been obsessed with the idea of travelling along the West Coast of the U.S.A, spending blissful, relaxing months in California. I don't know whether it's the chilled out lifestyle, the heat or the beaches that appeal to me the most; all I know is that I need to be there one day. The U.S.A appeals to me greatly, after reading many beautiful American blogs and seeing their amazing scenic backdrops & although I've never been, it's also the first place I ever wanted to visit as a child. I kind of feel there's a magnet drawing me to it, does that sound stupid? I've also wanted to visit New York for years & I always thought I could see myself happily living there, but somehow the relaxed lifestyle that California seems to have attracts me more. Perhaps it's my yearning for less stressed life & the thought of having a house with my own swimming pool, or the fact that they have a lot less grey weather!

All images are from google & tumblr

It's a strange thing for me to be dreaming of living half way across the world, seeing as I get homesick just being a 5 hour drive away from home... I guess it's just that time of the year when I'm stuck in North West England & everybody else is getting on a plane or going to festivals & having a wonderful time. Oh I wish I had money to do those things!
Where do you want to visit most? Do you dream of living somewhere completely different?

Pretty Pink: Makeup of the day

2011-06-20T23:14:00.000+01:00

Sometimes I really struggle with makeup, I wish I knew how to do different looks - I can't even put eyeliner on properly! When it comes to makeup, I'm pretty much a failure! I think one day when I can afford great products I'm going to go to get a makeover & tutorial!
So today I thought I'd try something different to my usual gold & bronze palette & went for pinks instead.

- No7 pressed powder - Max Factor False Eyelash Effect mascara - Barry M pink shimmer dazzle dust

- Max Factor Smokey eye effect in bronze - Rimmel 'Sweetie' lipstick - Benefit High Beam - Benefit It Stick concealer - Max Factor Xperience lightweight foundation

Sorry for the overly posed photo! I find it so hard to take photos of myself even with a tripod, hence the bad quality!

Overall I love this makeup look & it's something a bit different for me. Do any of you have any tips on learning how to do makeup?

I apologise for the short post today & for how uninspiring my writing is at the moment! I hate posting just anything on here & sometimes I just don't have any material that I feel is good enough! What do you guys do when you're having a bit of a creative block with your blogs? Any advice on how to get your mojo back? I would love to hear any thoughts. I'll hopefully be back very soon with an outfit post - the boy has promised to take some photos!

My First Bloggerversary!

2011-06-08T22:06:00.000+01:00

Rebecca's Vintage Romance is now one year old! I can't believe I have been blogging for a year, although to be honest I didn't get into it properly until this year! I didn't really know much about fashion blogs until this time last year, but now they are what I look to for inspiration & motivation nearly everyday.

This past year has been full of different things & many different emotions! This time last year I was living back home again & did for the majority of the summer. I thought I'd share a few of my most memorable moments. I'm afraid I didn't get photos for all of them, so google helped me out with that!

Home ♥

Carboot finds ♥

I did work experience with the Selfridges window team.

I finally saw him live ♥

The boy & I finally moved into our own flat.

I found my first designer item in a charity shop.

I drank lots of cocktails & rum & cokes.

I got a job.

I received my first ever Chanel. I am quite sure I will now be using this scent forever.

My favourite outfit post so far ♥

I went to the beautiful Lake District ♥

I travelled by train... a lot.

I did my first blog giveaway ♥

I found the most precious charity shop find ever. I absolutely adore this bag.

So happy 1st Bloggerversary to me! I'm quite disappointed that I didn't have many photos to share with you. I think that shows I need to blog more often (or I need to get out & do more)! I have enjoyed blogging so much & I love all of your kind comments. I still find it crazy that you all want to read what I have to say! I love being part of the blogging community & I hope to have achieved much much more by this time next year.

♥

DIY: Fringed Tee

2011-06-07T23:17:00.000+01:00

Firstly, thank you all so much for the lovely comments on the last couple of posts. I appreciate them all so much. Secondly, it's my blog's 1st birthday tomorrow! I can't believe it's been a year already, but I'll be back with a special birthday post!

So I've been finding bits & bobs to do with my free time while I'm not working & whilst organising my wardrobe at the weekend, I found this Jimi Hendrix tee that I'd bought on impulse well over a year ago but never worn. I thought instead of giving it to the charity shop I'd try & do something with it so that I'd actually wear it.
I love a bit of fringing so I thought I'd try doing it myself.

First I cut the collar off, as the original t-shirt neck style doesn't really suit me. Lower necks also make it a little more feminine, so I prefer them that way ( I tend to do this a lot with t-shirts!)

I then began to cut lines into the tee, to a length that I would be comfortable wearing. I kept the seams on each side of the tee intact, to keep the shape. Do that all the way along & roll up the sleeves & then there you have it, your new fringed tee!

So easy to do & a great way to re-invent an unworn t-shirt.

I'll be back again tomorrow, see you then!
x

'I just want to ride my bike with you'

2011-05-23T13:37:00.002+01:00

Hi everyone, I'm so sorry for my lack of posting (again, after saying I would blog more now I've finished uni for summer). I've been really poorly these past couple of weeks. I've had both flu & an ear infection, so as you can imagine I've not been doing anything much! But I am slowly on the mend & I will get out of the flat soon, rather than killing off brain cells watching 'This Morning' and 'Loose Women' everyday.
I'm currently having the post-uni, post-illness blues. I moan about uni work & being busy, but then when I have nothing to do I seem to lose all motivation. During the semester I will dream about what I can do when I have all the free time in the world, but when it comes to it, I find that I get so bored that I just watch box sets & sit in all day. Then I lose all motivation & inspiration, that's just not me at all, I want to be out doing things & making the most of my free time! Does this happen to any of you?
So I've decided that I'm going to set up a few projects for me to do throughout the summer, although I'm not 100% sure what they will be yet. I'll be sure to share them with you when I have some ideas.

So the original point of today's post was to show you an outfit! In particular a new tee I'm in love with.

I just think it's so sweet! I love old-fashioned/vintage bicycles & if it wasn't for living in a tiny teeny flat with no storage, I probably would have one.

Tee & skirt - New Look

Cardigan - thrifted

Bag - vintage

Shoes - Primark

My face is so stupid. My foot looks broken. My belt has been devoured by my stomach & my legs were stupidly sunburnt. Not the best outfit photo haha! These were taken outside of my house back home. You can probably tell why I get so homesick, huh?
This is another New Look outfit, I'm really feeling midi-length & pleated skirts. I think they are a good length & style on me & pretty flattering, although I think this colour could look a little frumpy.
As I feel like I've lost my motivation, I'm pretty unhappy with this blog & my writing at the moment. Is there anything more (or less) or different you'd like to see on here? I would love to hear your thoughts. I really appreciate all your lovely comments on my posts & I can't believe I have over 130 followers now. Thank you all so much! x

I ♥ New Look

2011-05-11T15:42:00.002+01:00

Yess, I love New Look. I know there's quite a lot of things going on with them at the moment like their press events over the past couple of days and their new styling t.v show (I nearly could have taken part in but wasn't allowed because I'm an employee :( boo) but this post isn't really anything to do with all that's going on. I just love the products. I love that I can buy this season's beautiful clothes for work uniform and the fact that it's the cheapest place (other than charity shops) for me to shop.

I worked for New Look a few years back and lets be honest, it wasn't the nicest or most 'current' place to shop. Most of what I remember were the character/slogan t-shirts and horrid cheap jersey dresses. Good for holiday & work wear but nothing else really. But these days, New Look are giving Topshop, H&M and other top hightsreet retailers a run for their money. So now I'm working for them again (since Christmas) & I've seen their products improve every month. The quality is getting better and they are taking a lot more inspiration from the catwalk with their styles & colours. It's fair to say that New Look is probably now one of my favourite high street retailers.

Tee, skirt, necklace - all New Look

Blazer & shoes - New Look from last summer

Belt - Primark

Bracelets - various

These photos were taken by my sister in my front garden at home. It's so pretty with all the daisies and the sun shining!

I seriously love this outfit so much, I haven't felt so confident wearing something for a long time. The skirt is my favourite new thing & it's a great length (I think it actually makes my legs look longer). I thought it looked nice with the white tee and black blazer and the belt to break it up. It makes a smart/casual day outfit but I could dress it up with heels or wedges in the evening. I'd also wear this skirt with some vintage pieces like a blouse and cardigan if it was cooler.

What do you guys think of New Look's new products? I am sure looking forward to seeing what they do for Autumn/Winter!

Ten Things...

2011-05-09T18:49:00.000+01:00

1. I am completely accident prone. I am a danger to myself & others. If there's a hole in the pavement or the ground, my feet WILL find it.

2. I'm from a little village in the Rodings in Essex half way in between Chelmsford & Harlow. I absolutely love it, so peaceful & beautiful. It has a church, a manor house, a caravan club (not quite as happenin' as the one in The Inbetweeners ha) and a small number of houses. The nearest shop is 2 miles away! It's like being on holiday, surrounded by fields and walking miles before you see another village.

3. I'm a vegetarian & have been for roughly 10 years.

4. I enjoy playing rockband. Even though I'm stuck on medium level, I'm too scared to go onto hard!

5. I have about 3 wardrobe's worth of clothes. One in Preston at uni and the rest back home in Essex! I always try to get rid of things but I just can't do it!

6. I love baking & I'm quite good at the ol' cupcakes & sticky toffee pud...

7. I was once a health care assistant! A job that lasted about 2 months & made me realise I needed to do a fashion course.

8. I'm actually 22, even though I look about 15...

9. I still really don't know what I want to do with my life, career-wise. Buying, styling, PR, writer... who knows? All I know is it has to be fashion & I can't see myself doing anything else.

10. I really want to visit more countries. There's so many places I want to see. I've never even been to New York & this makes me very sad!

This is a picture my brother took of me about a year ago. I swear it isn't me ha! Please have a look at his website here. He's such a talented photographer.

I was tagged by Becca from Honestly Bec to do this post.

I hope you all enjoyed learning a few more things about me... I'm not really all that interesting! I'm so sorry my last few posts have been so uninspiring. I promise I'll be back very soon with a proper outfit post.
See you all soon x

A casual kind of day.

2011-05-06T22:51:00.002+01:00

Yesterday, I finished all of my work for my second year of uni! I can't tell you how good, but strange it feels. I'm so used to being stressed and always having something to do - that's why I haven't posted for weeks - it's been non stop for me and this blog has been a little neglected.
So today I just completely chilled, gathered my thoughts, considered doing housework & played some rock band with the boyfriend! This past week has been super busy too; working, uni work, presentations, crying, stressing, saying goodbyes, exciting phone calls, excessive amounts of rum & coke, dancing til' the early hours, sore feet, sweaty lecture theatres & the wind taking my skirt over my head flashing my knickers. Pretty eventful & bloody horrendous.

So today's outfit..

Tee - New Look

Playsuit - vintage

Belt - Primark

Not the usual kind of outfit post today, I've literally not left the flat all day haha. Otherwise I would have used the standard pretty backdrop & they wouldn't have been blurry either! I really dislike taking outfit photos indoors, hence why I don't post outfits regularly. This playsuit is something I've been meaning to share with you on this blog for a while, but I just haven't worn it. I have mixed feelings about playsuits & this is the only one I own. I absolutely love it though, it's super comfy and it's a vintage topshop one I bought from ebay last year.
On Monday evening I'm back home to Essex again for a few days, just to go into London & Chelmsford, catch up with some friends and family and enjoy the summer weather they've promised we will have!
I'll be back soon with another post, I'm going to be posting regularly again now uni's over & I'll finally be replying to all your lovely comments yay!
See you all soon! x

I ♥ Sundays

2011-04-17T17:10:00.001+01:00

Sunday is probably my favourite day of the week. Getting up early while my boyfriend still sleeps. Sitting in my pj's for hours. Watching 'Something for the Weekend'. Getting on with different bits & bobs. Phoning my mum to see what she's up to. Having a stroll into town or to the park, especially when the weather is as gorgeous as it is today. Sundays are just my total chill out day!
So I've decided to tell you about my day... I thought you might be interested... or not haha.

I set my alarm early purposely so that I could get on with uni work. The work did not happen. I got up at 7.30am but was still sitting in my pj's at 10.30 watching the London Marathon... oops.
Finally got ready & my parents phoned to say they were on their way over - they came to Preston to move my sister back home from uni, so we all went for lunch together before they made their way back.
We had a delicious lunch at an amazing restaurant/cafe in town called Moka. They do lovely vegetarian food & I had a Spanish Omelette & salad.
We said goodbye to everyone & had a stroll round the shops.
We sat in sunny Winckley Square with amazing ice cream which disappeared far too quickly for me to get photos. I had banoffee & Chris had toffee crunch, beautiful!
We moved off quickly after I discovered I was starting to melt in the sun.
Now I plan to get on with a mountain of uni work with numerous cups of tea. It seems so unfair that people have finished uni for the year already. I still have a review & article to write, a styling project & a photography blog/shoot project (which we're actually shooting tomorrow - exciting!)
I'm making mushroom & asparagus risotto for dinner tonight, yum. Then I plan to laugh & cringe at The Only Way is Essex before bed. What do you all think of this hideous programme? Is it so bad it's good, or so bad it's just bad? I love it haha!

Hope you've all had a wonderful weekend. See you soon x

Don't forget me, I beg.

2011-04-08T18:03:00.000+01:00

I still can't stop listening to Adele & Someone like you. I swear it makes me cry nearly every time. I think I pretty much love her!
Sorry I haven't blogged properly for so long! Uni work/life has very much caught up with me the last few weeks & I just want to be finished for the year. I know I'll miss uni over the summer & having something to do but I'm so sick of it right now! All I want to do is chill out in the sun & the park, blog, bake cakes & spend some quality time with people! Not long until I'm all done though... 7th May & all my deadlines will all be over until September! I can't wait to get back to blogging properly & reading other blogs again!
Anyway, I have a few new things to share with you. Mainly stuff that I couldn't afford but bought anyway haha.

Ooof one of my favourite things in life is a good hat. The straw one is from Primark, which I initially bought for a photo shoot but decided to keep! I haven't worn it yet, but I'm sure it'll make an appearance on the blog soon if the weather stays this nice! The second is a felt hat from a charity shop. You can't see the detail too well but it's blimmin' gorgeous, I love it so much!

I also got these wooden sandals from H&M (which look much better on by the way!) They are a great colour & I didn't want to take them off after trying them on! I can't wait to wear these in the summer.

Next is the Orla Kiely Pattern book which I was very kindly bought a couple of weeks back! It's a lovely, lovely book & I can't stop reading through it & admiring all the pretty images inside. It's already come in handy for an essay, so it's great to reference to!

I've also invested in some new makeup recently. Previously my makeup bag was full of old, cheap, out of date products so I thought I'd treat myself to some new things! Usually I like to keep my makeup quite natural looking with just a bit of bright lippy. But it was so minimal that after just a few hours it seemed to just melt off my face & I'd be left looking more tired than when I'd just woken up! (what's that about?!)
So after hearing great things about Max Factor I went into Boots & bought:

The 'Xperience' lightweight foundation

The 'False Lash Effect' waterproof mascara

& got this 'Smoky Eye Effect' eyeshadow for free as I bought the mascara. This is just a Boots offer I think, but it saved me £7.99!

This is how my makeup looked after applying all three items. I can't tell you how much of an improvement this is! The mascara & foundation stay on pretty much all day & look fine all day... I've never had that with a foundation before so I can't tell you how pleased I am with it. I got it in light ivory because I have such pale skin, but it matches perfectly. The smoky eye effect has to be re-applied now & again throughout the day but it's really great to wear instead of eyeliner. I bought it in bronze because darker shades are too harsh for my complexion, but it really makes my eyes stand out & look bigger so I would recommend it... especially if you can get it for free! The only thing I have to say against the mascara is that it's so good that it takes a lot of effort to get it off at night! I end up losing about 50 eyelashes in the process!

Also when visiting London & Selfridges I got this free teeny weeny sample of Chanel lipstick in shade 'Mademoiselle'. I've never worn such good quality lipstick before so I think I'll be investing in another one when this runs out. It's moisturising & it lasts for ages, so probably worth the money!

Excuse my silly face but this is all of the makeup on together. I think I still achieve quite a natural look, but I'm not too fussed as I prefer it to how I used to go about town, that's for sure! & it's hardly Snog Marry Avoid, right?

What are all of your makeup must-haves? Any recommendations?

My first giveaway winner!

2011-03-25T22:39:00.002Z

Firstly I would like to apologise for being pretty absent from anything internet related these past few weeks. I'm afraid university work has very much caught up with me & taken over my life! I feel like I've been non-stop lately! I feel awful for not blogging, but thank you to all of those who have been patient with me. I will get back on track very soon!

So my giveaway was quite a while ago & I'm sorry for not announcing the winner sooner.
The winner is (drum-roll).......

Rosie

from

'then she'll carelessly cut you'

Thank you so much to all of you that entered! It was quite scary doing a giveaway for the first time, but I think I chose the right prize in the end! & make sure you check out Rosie's lovely blog!

So, I'm afraid I don't have any recent photos to show you tonight (I took some but the lighting was awful so I will re-take them tomorrow!). I've got a few lovely new things to share with you & I will get some outfit photos too, so keep your eyes peeled & please don't give up on me!
Rebecca x

My week in pictures #1

2011-03-05T23:18:00.001Z

I have a question: Where on earth did February go? I'm sure I blinked & it was gone. I have so much to do in so little time, so this is why I'm doing a post like this. Just to show you what I've been up to... which to be honest, isn't a lot, but it sure does feel like it!

March arrived.

I tried Barry M nail paint in mint green.

I went to the Lake District for a couple of days where my parents were staying. I arrived dressed like an evacuee, but it was one of my favourite outfits for a long while. (I will wear it again & take photos!)

We went for beautiful, long walks & I wrecked some brogues, due to not having suitable walking attire.

I spent a while procrastinating, making lists & looking over project briefs.

I rented books from the library in an attempt to start writing an essay.

I went to work where I wanted to curse customers for trashing the sale rail, that I had just tidied to perfection, not one minute earlier.

I bought M&S double chocolate muffins & had one with the biggest cup of tea when I got home.

I spent hours on Photoshop designing sketchbook pages & continue to do so.

That is pretty much my life at the moment. I long for May, when I will be finishing my second year at university & I will have time to actually have a life & spend time with my family & friends.

Tomorrow will be much the same as above, but hopefully with outfit photos as I'll be with my sister all day.

Thanks so much for all your lovely comments on here. I promise I will reply to them all, as soon as this deadline is out of the way! Thanks again to all who have entered my giveaway ♥ remember you still have until tomorrow night if you haven't entered already :)

Thanks for reading. x

Filler

2011-02-28T00:14:00.000Z

Yes this is a filler post.... I'm really sorry! I've been so busy with uni work these last couple of weeks that this blog has been a little neglected. I have a big deadline tomorrow so I have been working on that work loads lately. That's what I've been up to & you can actually see it all here.
I'll be back really soon with an outfit post & other bits & bobs so please don't give up on me!
Thank you so much to all who have entered my giveaway so far, to those who haven't, you still have a week left :)
I hope you've all had a wonderful weekend & I'll be back very soon ♥

My first giveaway

2011-02-17T22:01:00.002Z

Hi everyone! Hello to all of my new followers too :)
Firstly I'd like to say a big thank you to the lovely Victoria from My Favourite Fashion, for writing about me in her latest inspiration post! It's great to know that people enjoy reading my ramblings & all the lovely comments I've received are so encouraging.

Originally I said I would organise a giveaway at 50 followers, but I've been trying so hard to decide on the right item that it's taken me a while to put it up. The item I'm giving away is this lovely nautical cardigan. I found it in a charity shop back in September, the label looks vintage but please don't take my word for it because it looks nearly new! I'm sure one of you lovely readers will style it beautifully & make it look amazing!

It's a lovely thick cardigan & it's extremely good condition, almost like new! The buttons are lovely & give the cardigan even more of that nautical look. It says size Large on the label & it is quite big on me (I'm a size 12), but it depends on how you like your fit! (I sound like I'm selling on ebay!!)
It's not a huge giveaway as it's only my first, but I hope you like my choice & I hope you will all enter!

How to enter:
You can each enter up to 3 times, by doing the following:
1. Firstly you must be a follower of Rebecca's Vintage Romance - please say how you follow in your comment.
2. You must leave a comment & please include your email address, so I can contact you if you win!
3. You can tweet or even blog about this giveaway, just please make sure you leave an extra comment for each.

I'm afraid as this is my first ever giveaway, it will be open to UK readers only. When I'm more experienced at this kind of thing I will open these to everyone :) The winner will be picked at random & the closing date is Sunday 6th March 2011 at midnight.

Good luck!
x

Thrifty Tuesdays

2011-02-08T23:21:00.004Z

So this is going to be my new feature on my blog. It won't be every Tuesday, as I don't go charity shopping every week, but I will save the things I do buy for these posts!
Some of these items I bought a good few weeks ago but just haven't had the time to show you them - I hope you love them as much as I do!

The first thing is this lovely floral dress I bought for £1.99. Believe me, the photos don't do it justice. The print is just beautiful & so summery. The torso of the dress is the perfect shape for me, although it needs altering, it's so long on me! I can't imagine a little old lady wearing this without being completely swamped in it. I'm going to shorten it to just above my knee so that will leave quite a fair bit of material to play with! I usually change the buttons on charity shop buys, but the buttons on this dress are really good quality & perfect condition, so I think I'll keep them! I can't wait to wear this dress!

This is another beautiful dress I cannot wait to alter & wear. Do you remember me mentioning a while ago that I went to get some money out for a dress in a charity shop & then it had disappeared? Well this is the dress! I found it again a week later in another charity shop nearby! It was £2.99 rather than the original £1, but that didn't put me off. This dress & I were just meant to be! It's a St Michael's one & a very good quality fabric. (That is what I love most about old clothes!) The colour & print are gorgeous & look really nice with my skin tone. Again I'm going to alter it to just above the knee, as at the moment the length is just not working on me. I have changed the buttons to these nice gold ones as the others were slightly tatty.

I also bought these lovely floral Chinese vases (I went a bit mad for the florals). They were £1 for them both. They look so cute on my living room window-sill with my wicker potpourri basket & all my other little nic-naks!

My most recent find was this gem I found in a charity shop about a minute walk from my flat. When I caught sight of the label I did a little squeal! For £1.50 I couldn't pass it up. I have no idea whether it's really Ralph Lauren but I'd like to find out. I'm going to have to do a bit of research! It's such a thick, heavy hand knitted jumper. It took about 2 weeks for it to dry after washing it haha. I haven't worn it yet, but I can't wait. I'm thinking of wearing it with just a plain black bodycon skirt & black floral patterned tights - I will be sure to take pictures when I do!

While I'm here, The lovely Victoria from My Favourite Fashion awarded me a Versatile Blogger Award so thank you! My first ever one of these!

The Rules

-Link back to and thank whoever gave you the award.

-Share seven things about yourself.

-Pass the award along to seven blogs that you enjoy.

-Let your recipients know about the award.

Seven things you may or may not know about me:

Lately I have become so obsessed with blogging that it takes priority over everything. I even dream about blogging.
I am the clumsiest person ever to exist. I regularly injure myself due to this & have even ended up in A&E after poking myself in the eye whilst driving (please don't ask me to elaborate).
My favourite band is Deftones.
I listen to so much different music, my Ipod on shuffle can go from Kate Bush to David Bowie to Cancer Bats etc - I love it!
I have two tattoos. A heart on my right foot & a phoenix on my right shoulder.
I absolutely love swimming & it's one thing I'm actually really good at. I don't do it enough anymore.
I drink too much tea & eat too much chocolate.

I know I'm supposed to pick seven bloggers but I've found it impossible - there are so many blogs I read & love. I'd love to award it to all of the blogs I read! (Am I allowed to do that?)

Thanks for reading if you've made it to the end of this hefty post! x

Letter Box Red

2011-02-04T17:15:00.000Z

Hat - M&S

Sheer shirt - H&M

Skirt & shoes - New Look

Belt - Zara

Tights & bag - ASOS

Ribbon (around collar) - from a local haberdashery

After feeling poorly for a while, today was the first day I've felt well enough to go out & have photos taken of my outfit! It's been much milder up here the last few days, but it is terribly windy - as you can see especially in the last photo! Luckily this hat stayed on my head with no trouble & didn't end up in the road or a puddle, like my others normally do! I bought this skirt from work yesterday & I love it! It's a very full, feminine skirt & just the right length for my stubby legs! I decided to wear it with a sheer shirt, ribbon & this lovely little hat I was kindly bought for Christmas! I fell in love with the hat the moment I saw it. The shape, the felt, the bow & especially the bright red.

What do you think of my hair? I had it dyed last Friday. It's not exactly what I asked for (ombred with blonde through the ends), but I really like it. It's the first step of going blonde & a brighter look for the Spring!

I'm thinking of starting a new feature on my blog called 'Thrifty Tuesdays'. It won't be every week, but I think it might give my blog more structure, what do you think? Also, is there anything more/less you'd like to see on my blog?

Thanks for reading x

Dear February,

2011-02-02T00:28:00.003Z

Will you please bring me more Cadbury, pretty bargains & most importantly motivation! My self esteem & confidence have been disappearing lately & it's causing me to neglect my priorities - coursework! One of my most important resolutions for the year is to work the hardest I can at university & achieve the best marks I can. I managed to get 1.0's on my two previous projects & I was so proud of myself. I so desperately want to achieve that again within all of my modules this semester but as much as I want to, I just can't seem to get back into my work after the Christmas break. I think it may just be that my work load is ever so daunting; not just the amount but the pressure of doing well. I never, ever think my work is good enough & I always think that I could have done something better once I've handed it in. Do any of you feel the same?

One assignment I have actually very much gotten into is for my Fashion Image module. We have to write an inspiration blog & funnily enough I always manage to set aside a bit of time to post, shame I can't do that for all my other work too! The blog is for my own work as a stylist & all things that inspire me. Please feel free to have a wonder over to Inspiration & Wishful Thinking as I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Anyway, enough of me rambling on! I was going to show you all of my latest thrifty finds today but the photos I took of them were awful so I'm going to wait until tomorrow when I'll have some good daylight! I'm hoping to get some new outfit photos tomorrow too so I can show you my new hair!

For now I leave you with my ASOS wishlist. I'm still obsessing over that skirt in my last post, but these too!

1. Boutique by Jaeger skirt (This is actually the link to the blouse but I fell in love with the skirt a while ago)

2. Leather vintage style satchel

3. Catarzi Felt floppy hat

4. Cropped blouse with lace trim collar

5. Catarzi bowler hat

6. French Connection Jules Chunky Platform Heeled Sandals
7. Tailored belted shorts

I want them all so much! I just can't get enough of ASOS lately.

Thanks for reading! x

-Regarding my giveaway, I'm planning to do one very soon to celebrate reaching 50 followers! I'm just in the process of finding things to include in it, as I want it to be meaningful, rather than any unwanted things from my flat!

I have fallen in love all over again.

2011-01-28T14:29:00.002Z

It sounds so silly saying I've fallen in love with an item of clothing, especially as I haven't even bought it...yet. It's another beauty from ASOS... the 20% NUS discount & free next day delivery make it ever so more appealing too.
This skirt is a beautiful midi knitted skirt with a pretty lace trim. I'm in two minds whether I should order it though. What do you guys think? Bearing in mind I'm about 5"6 but have stupidly short legs & I have quite a curvy figure, although I would wear the skirt with heels/wedges. I would probably wear it slightly higher on my waist too. Also, have you guys ordered off ASOS lately? What are the sizes like, do they come up small/big? I hate buying things without trying them on first!

Should I buy it? For £25 I don't think I can resist!

I do apologise for this being a short post today - there will be a better one over the weekend, hopefully with some outfit photos! I'm getting my hair done today, tidied up & dyed blonde/brown ombre style! I'm so excited, I haven't had my hair cut since the summer (student woes)! I'm really looking forward to a change & going back to my (almost) natural colouring.

What are you guys up to this weekend?

Thanks for reading x

Socks & shoes

2011-01-23T20:37:00.000Z

This weekend my parents came to visit Preston & we had a lovely weekend eating delicious Italian food & walking through the park. Today was much brighter than it has been recently so it was a great day to have a nice long walk.

Coat - River Island

Blazer - H&M

Dress - Topshop

Bag - ASOS

Scarf & belt - thrifted

Shoes - New Look

I really love going on walks to clear my head & get some fresh air. It's great living in a busy city, but I miss being able to go walking for hours through the Essex countryside, which I have back home. That's why it's so great to have the park not far away - it's probably my favourite place to go up here! Some days I just go sit alone & watch people go by.

The blazer is one I received for Christmas, which you may have caught a glimpse of here. I love to wear it clashing patterns & contrasting colours. The dress is the same Topshop one I posted about a week or so ago; I'm still totally in love with it! I bought the scarf from a charity shop last week - I love the colours; they're very warm & I find they go with pretty much everything, which is always a good thing. You saw the brogues in my last post, they are the most comfortable shoes I've ever bought from New Look!

I start my fashion photography lecture tomorrow, I'm hoping it's going to be very useful! Plus, I'm looking into finally getting a Canon DSLR! I'm so excited that I might finally be able to work on my photography skills again, learning how to use a lens properly & producing some pretty photographs.

I hope you've all had an enjoyable weekend, do you have any nice plans for this week?

-Also, I'm now on 42 followers! Thank you so much. Not long to go now until I can organise my giveaway. So if you like my blog, please follow :)

Because our young and healthy bones would never lead us astray...

2011-01-18T23:48:00.002Z

Currently listening to (& forever will be): Laura Marling - Alas I cannot swim

Hi everyone! I'd like to say a big thank you to my followers, the number is gradually creeping up! I'm starting to think that I might get to 50 much sooner than I anticipated, so I can start finding things for a lovely giveaway! I'd also like to say thank you for all the lovely comments I've received. It's very encouraging & lovely knowing that you're enjoying what I'm rambling on about!

So as I mentioned in my last post I've just been kept on permanent at work, which obviously means a bit of cheeky shopping! I work for New Look & I'm so impressed by them at the moment! They have some absolutely gorgeous things in store & are really up-to-date with the seasonal trends. That's why you've seen many New Look items featured in my outfit posts lately!
I thought I'd just show you what I bought. (If you are my boyfriend, I've had all this stuff for ages - it was in my wardrobe the whole time!)

They all look very pretty, don't they?

I was in desperate need for some new brogues. The ones seen in my last post, are completely exhausted from being worn day in, day out! I bought both white & brown ones, so I will have some for the Spring/Summer to wear with pretty dresses. I've worn these brown ones already & they're really comfortable & look great with black tights! I also bought 2 long sleeved striped shirts one white with blue stripes & the other cream with red stripes. They're lovely on & really soft material. They are simple & easy to wear but I think they can look really chic.

Some new spotty tights, as my beloved old ones are ripped & laddered.

The last thing I bought were these Aussie hair products. As my hair is so long, it can be quite hard to care for sometimes. I've tried a few Aussie products before & thought they were fantastic & seeing as they were on offer I thought I'd treat myself to the Take The Heat shampoo & the 3 Minute Miracle conditioning treatment. All I can say is after using them just this morning, my hair looks soft & shiny & smells amazing - I do love hair & beauty products!

As I was at university today, I went to a few charity shops after my lecture & found some amazing bargains I will be sharing with you all soon! I got 2 vintage dresses for £2! I couldn't get over how cheap they were! I also got some nice homeware bits, but I will show you those in another post! What have you all been buying recently? Are you buying Spring/Summer items yet?

Thanks for reading! x

Leopard in the park

2011-01-15T20:25:00.001Z

Hi everyone! Thanks so much for all your lovely comments on my last post, you all seem to love my bag of bargainous beauty! I've been getting a lot of use out of it & everyone compliments it!
I have a slightly different/new blog layout, just because it makes the blog look fresher & cleaner. The header is new too, but I'm going to change it as soon as I get a new suitable picture, as I'm not sure I like it that much, what do you guys think?

My sister & I took a walk in the park yesterday morning. I love going, sitting down just to gather my thoughts or like yesterday, to have a good chin-wag with my sister! I wore my snugly new leopard faux fur jacket that my lovely mum surprised me with & my favourite vintage dress.

Faux fur jacket - George at Asda

Dress & bag - vintage

Belt - Zara

Brogues - New Look

I apologise for looking so serious & awkward in these photos - it was fairly early. Also I must point out that my shoes are not always so filthy! We had to walk through clay & mud, as there were so many workmen & trucks everywhere doing work on the park.

Isn't the jacket lush? Apparently it was £15 in the sale at Asda, pretty good I think - thanks Mum! It's so cosy & soft and the perfect length to wear with dresses. The dress is one I've been meaning to get in an outfit post ever since I bought it back in September! I bought it from a vintage fair in Preston & it originally came down to my ankles (so probably knee length on everyone else) so my sister kindly took it up for me & sewed ric-rac onto the bottom. I then changed the buttons on the shoulders to prettier ones as the original ones were very worn. I can't put into words how much I adore this dress!

I included the above picture just so you could see it in more detail. I am constantly looking to invest in some more wonderful vintage dresses, I haven't bought one for a while now - I was about to buy one for just £1 the other day but as I went to get some cash out I didn't think to put it by, then when I went back a few minutes later it had gone, boo.

I am going into town tomorrow with my new work discount card, so that means I should have some more lovely bits to show you! What are you all up to this weekend?

Just to say, I would absolutely love to do a giveaway. I have seen some gorgeous items that I would love to give to one or more of you, but I want to have at least 50 followers first! Seeing as I'm only on 25 & I've had this blog for about 6 months I don't think it'll be very soon, but a girl can dream right? Haha :)

Thanks for reading! x

Ooh new clothes ♥

2011-01-13T18:46:00.004Z

Hi everyone! I've been back at university this week & looking at the timetable, it's going to be a very busy & exciting semester! We may even get a field trip to Paris, lovely!

The weather is finally getting milder up North & today was the first day I actually felt too warm in my thick winter coat! I can't wait for Spring; I love this season because you can just wear a cardigan or blazer & you don't have to suffer in a massive coat! Also, because of all the beautiful colours that are coming into the shops at the moment.

If you follow me on twitter you will possibly know that I fell in love with this Topshop dress, but they didn't have it in my local store so I had to order it online. Well it was delivered today & it's even prettier than it looks on the website!

I teamed it with my new wedges - originally a Christmas present; I exchanged the shearling ones for these plain ones so that I can wear them throughout the year & I thought they'd be much more versatile! - I've actually only just noticed how bumpy these boots look! Note to self: don't forget to pull up tongues next time you wear these, it might make them that bit more comfortable!

Dress - Topshop

Cardigan, wedges, socks - New Look

Bag - charity shop

This is a bag that I am in love with. I bought it from a little charity shop a few days ago on my lunch break at uni! It was just £2! It's such a good quality, sturdy bag & the colours go with everything I wear. If anyone knows what this logo/brand is could you please let me know? I love trying to research all my charity shop or vintage finds but couldn't find anything on it apart from the possibility of 'London Luggage'.
So they are my lovely new buys of the week! I will be scouring the charity shops for more bargains now I'm back at university, hopefully I'll find some more wonderful things soon!
Thanks for reading! x

Something for a rainy day

2011-01-10T00:02:00.000Z

Currently listening to: Nero - Me & You

Hi everyone! Thank you for your nice comments on my resolutions posts, some are already going pretty well!
So I obviously haven't been keeping to my resolution concerning my blog..oops! But with good reason, as I went back to Essex for a few days to spend time with my family & friends. I was planning to get some pretty outfit photos but the weather was dreadful, so Preston scenery will have to do for now! I had a lovely time, spending most of it with my mum & my nephew. It was great to relax; my mother's amazing home-baking got in the way of the diet, but I'm back to it now haha.

Anyway today's post is actually an arty/crafty one! I was given a 'Make your own vintage style purse' kit for Christmas (you may have caught a little glimpse of it in my Christmas post) & it's so cute that I had to share it with you!

So the kit included all the bits you need & some straight forward instructions. The kit is from Hobbycraft, I don't know how much it cost but I'd guess around 5-10 pounds.

So first you start off by putting the flower together for the front of the purse. I actually found this the most difficult of the whole thing, even though all the shapes were already cut out for you - it was a slightly fiddly ruching the base felt & sewing it all together!

You then sew the flower & the stem pattern onto the front of the purse using the template.

You then attach the handle & sew the two ends of the zip & fabric together which will make the outline of the purse.

You then sew both sides to the base using a simple blanket stitch.

And there you have it! A cute little purse for your makeup or money (or pennies in my case). It took me just a couple of hours to complete - one of those was figuring out how to make the flower at the start! It would be so simple to make without the kit also, all you would need are; a thick needle, 2 different shades of thread, thick felt (or other sturdy fabric), a zip & a cut-off of a complementing fabric & button for the flower. I might even try doing this myself, as I think they would make lovely presents! Although I would perhaps put a lining inside as this one is a little flimsy - it's lucky I don't have a lot of money to go in it I suppose!

So I hope you have enjoyed this post, I will hopefully be back next time with some outfit photos! I will also keep you updated with my resolutions.

In other news, I'm back at university on Tuesday which I'm looking forward to but is bound to make my life hectic again! I've enjoyed chilling out & just working for a few weeks, but I am quite happy to be going back to having work to do (am I crazy?!).

See you next time, thanks for reading! x

Another Year Over

2010-12-31T23:36:00.000Z

Some people feel sad when another year has passed, others feel like it's the time to start a fresh & really get motivated. I personally take the time to think about the positive & negative things to have happened throughout the year & then plan to improve on those negatives.

This year has been full of ups & downs for me, but it's changed me as a person, I feel for the better. Things that have happened this year have really made me appreciate the good things in my life & has completely changed my outlook on life (cheesy but true!) I completed my first year at university with a 2:1, I completed a work placement with non other than the Selfridges window display team (my favourite part of the summer!!) & I started this blog.

Since starting this blog, I think it has really developed my style, even if I don't have many pictures to show for it. (I plan on learning how to take good outfit photos of myself rather than have someone take them for me!) I also think it's improved the way I think about clothes & fashion.

So here comes the generic New Year's resolutions. In past years I have made some ridiculous targets, such as "marry Alex Zane" & "don't buy anymore clothes", but this year I think I have some realistic goals. Obviously you can't achieve anything without hard work & determination, but I have a feeling that 2011 really will be my year!

1. Lose 2, 1/2 - 3 stone by the end of the summer: I'm no expert on weight loss, but I really am hoping to achieve at least close to this. It's my sister's wedding at the end of August & I'm going to be a bridesmaid. I am always saying I want to lose weight, so this time I'm going to take it seriously.

2. Blog at least twice a week: I really am determined to keep up with my blog, because I really do love blogging! I need to get organised with uni work, my job, my blog & all my other hobbies - I need to find that balance without getting buried under.

3. Complete my second year of university & work at my uttermost hardest: Going back to university was the best decision I have ever made & I want to succeed. If I work at my hardest, I will know I did my very best & will have no regrets about 'not working hard enough'.

4. Start swimming again: try to go once a week. I love swimming & used to go at least once a week when I lived at home. I really miss it because I love it & it makes me feel great!

5. Take up Yoga: buy a good yoga DVD & keep at it. I have participated in yoga classes in the past & I really do enjoy it so I want to take it up properly.

6. Complete an internship/work placement: OK, this should probably be higher up on the list. After doing my Selfridges work placement in the summer, I have loved the idea of doing an actual internship.

7. Save up for DSLR & new laptop: unfortunately I have a rubbish compact camera & a completely knackered laptop. A new laptop I fear, will be first to buy & I desperately want & need a good camera. I want to save up for a Canon, as my university work & blog will benefit.

8. Go to more museums, galleries & exhibitions: I really need to expand my research sources rather than relying on the university library & the internet!

9. Go blonde: Not bright peroxide, don't worry. I've been thinking of dying my hair dark/dirty blonde for a while now & I think I should just do it!

10. Generally just look after myself: Be healthy & happy! I'm fed up of feeling ill & tired all the time because it really affects everything in my life! I think being healthy is probably top of my list, as all good things will follow.

I apologise for this being such a long post, I wasn't expecting to have so much to write! By the way, yes writing this now does mean I am sitting in on New Year's Eve - but to be honest I think the night's overrated. Everywhere's crowded, drinks are expensive & a hangover on the day that you're meant to start changing your life just doesn't interest me!

Happy New Year everyone. Bring on 2011!
Thanks for reading! x

A (very belated) Christmas post!

2010-12-29T18:44:00.000Z

Hello everyone! As said in the title, this is a very belated post, as I was planning to update it on Boxing Day. However, I've just been caught up with work & travelling to & from Essex so here it is now! : )
I hope you are all enjoying the festive period & have eaten lots of delicious food!
My Christmas was lovely, spent with my closest family drinking mulled wine & opening presents! I absolutely love Christmas time, just because it brings everyone together; I've always believed the festive period should be spent with your loved ones & not out shopping the minute Christmas Day is over, even if you can grab some great bargains! I guess I'm just a big family person.

I was planning to get some photos of my Christmas Day outfit, but just didn't get the time. I will be sure to get my boyfriend to take some very soon though! So instead I thought I would share a collection of photos that I have taken over the last few days.

The last few photos are of my lovely presents! They will be appearing in outfit posts in the future, I promise! My main present was Coco Mademoiselle perfume from my parents. It's seriously the most delicious smelling perfume in the world & stays on all day! It's my first ever Chanel & won't be the last!
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas, what did you all get? I've loved reading all the Christmassy posts, very inspirational!
Thanks for reading! x