Steps towards positive thinking…

Hello everyone! You may be surprised that neither fashion or beauty are on the agenda today, but something else close to my heart that I wanted to share with you: positive thinking. 

Since I've moved to university and being up to my eyes in assignments and endless reading, stress has managed to get the better of me and the real 'meaning of life' seems to fade; little things take over and petty problems become more important. 

Of course, I am not an expert in positive thinking because like everyone, I have down days too. It's so easy to let the small things in life like 'oh I don't have enough money to buy this' or in my case, uni work, get the better of us. But I believe that a change in mindset makes a big difference; bringing us all back down to earth and reminding us of what is really important. Here are just a few little pick-me-up tips I like to tell myself when things aren't as rosy or I wake up feeling… urgh!

1) People. 

For me, positivity starts from your environment and the people you surround yourself with. Friendships, family and relationships are crucial elements that shape your state of mind. It doesn't take a genius to realise that spending time with a negative person will make YOU negative. I've had some drainers in my time and broken friendships that I've blamed myself for or have damaged my confidence, but sometimes you have to realise everything happens for a reason; there is always an important lesson to be learnt and events that help to develop you as a person. Positivity will shine when you surround yourself with the right people- just like when you wear your inappropriately high heels for too long and you finally kick them off after a long night, a great weight is lifted!



2) Upset = determination.

Who knows what life will throw at you next! As I have learnt, make the most of negative situations. I'm sure everybody reading this has either had a sour breakup, argument, or been the target of negative comments or criticism; there will always be people out there that want to bring you down for reasons of their own- transform it into a burst of determination. For the boy that took you for granted or broke your heart- go to the gym, have a makeover, change your hair colour or whatever tickles your fancy. Show him what he's missing! For the people who criticise you or say you can't do something: DO IT! Nothing brings satisfaction more than proving someone wrong. Learn from the negative situations that life throws at you and you'll be laughing!



3) Goals- Manage your time!  

This is a concept I have always struggled with. I cannot tell you the amount of times I have sat for up to 6 hours trying to write as much of my dreaded assignment as possible, redoing sections that I'm not happy with or getting into a huff when I see people have done more than me! I have to grit my teeth when I say that making goals are the answer, because I have been blessed with the trait of perfectionism. I never seem to be happy with my work but the key is to find the balance between free time and work time- two very juxtaposing concepts that cannot possibly be put in the same sentence… can they? But believe it or not, this is the answer to achieving positivity. Give yourself regular breaks and find that supposedly impossible balance, that can be achieved! Yes your GCSEs, A-Levels or Degrees are important- but so are you!

4) Do something crazy... you may just enjoy it! 

Self belief has been a struggle of mine; a battle that I have been fighting for years and one I have only just overcome. It wasn't until I moved to uni- a move I never thought I'd have the confidence to make, that my confidence has blossomed! I am finally having the confidence to get my writing out there and chase dreams I never thought I would. Have any aspirations? Dream jobs? Anywhere you see yourself in 5 years time? Then make the first step towards achieving it. As my Mum has always told me, you only get out of life what you put in and good things come to people who wait people who work hard for it! Before even thinking about positivity, work on your self belief; a concept that fabricates the way we live our lives. You can either be the hermit or the woman dancing on the tables- and if it were for me to choose, dancing on the tables sounds more fun!



5) LOVE YOURSELF

In my opinion, comparison is the worst trait women of today withhold; we are comparing ourselves to others constantly-body shape, hair style or fashion, it never seems to end. Picking out our own petty imperfections that go unnoticed by others whilst manipulating ourselves to meet expectations. STOP. Having had these thoughts myself, I know the power it can have over a persons life. If someone is to get past it, then positivity and confidence will blossom. Whether you have to buy that dress you can't afford, or face the terrifying concept that is the gym, do everything you can to give yourself that famous 'feel good factor'. Nothing screams beautiful more than having confidence, and it's not until you look beyond expectations of today that you realise what is important! 

Quick little catch up and a few pretty purchases!

Hello lovelies, so this isn't a post about one item in particular but a few recent purchases that have been lucky enough to make it into my collection! But first of all.. what is going on in the world of Laura? One word: Business. Me and my lovely boyfriend Sam have decided to start a little business; a health and nutritional programme named Herbalife. I love taking care of myself, inside and out, and my family have lived off of the Herbalife products since 2011 so it makes sense to carry the flame and share it all with you!

So, I'm not a whizz kid about nutrition but because of my Journalism degree, it makes sense to go down a root driven by social skills and meeting new people. Sam also happens to be doing a Sports Science degree, so just this once… just this ONCE, I'll let him take the reins (a very rare occasion I have to add). With his knowledge and my social skills, it's a match made in heaven- although with two very bold personalities, it will definitely put our relationship to the test! I will be getting a kick start on our new Herbalife blog very soon, so I will keep you posted- whether it will be LAURA & SAM or SAM & LAURA is another question. 

Secondly, this may be first in beauty blogging history.. but me and my lovely friend Lisa at The Beauty Type  (and fellow beauty blogger) are planning on moving in together for our second year of uni- how exciting! I can tell our passion for all things beauty will bully our bank accounts, but I can't wait! 

Onto my little purchases...

[these photographs have not been taken by myself] 

These Primark beauties are, well, beautiful! And the price is even better… £6!!! They were in the sale (whoever knew Primark has sales?!), I picked these up today and I can't wait to wear them already. The bright, Scarlet red adds a pop of colour to any outfit; wear with jeans to transform a casual look into a quirky number or your favourite LBD to add a little personality. So they're from Primark, and from personal experience, any shoes I've had from there have crumbled within a couple of weeks, but oh well- look how pretty they are! 

I absolutely love this Glamorous Floral Shirt from Bank Fashion! I just couldn't resist and anybody who knows me would know that buttoned up, collared shirts are my thang.

It's floral, bold and just perfect for spring- whoever said you can't prepare for your spring/summer wardrobe already? That's organisation in my eyes.
Team with jeans and some pumps for a casual look or your favourite wedges, leather look leggings, and over sized clutch for a sexy evening ensemble! I'm even thinking of teaming this with a knitted jumper; perfect for the winter chill but with a little hint of spring…ahh!
It's a piece I can't wait to go crazy and experiment with and I will post soon my outfit choices, look out!

So it's a favourite for many, but this Sleek Blush by 3 Palette in Lace was a very obvious purchase for me after my previous post on Sleek's famous contouring kit. The deep pink and orange blush are matte whilst the middle rose shade has a hint of shimmer, perfect for the upcoming spring. The middle shade looks gorgeous if you are trying to achieve an understated natural look whilst the brighter shades inject a bit of colour for those nights when you hit the town! A fab purchase and a definite recommendation!

Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection Concealer
As you can see, my Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection Concealer has seen better days. The poor  condition of the packaging says a thousand words, or just three… I love it! I've seen many blog about this beauty so I thought i'd see what all the fuss was about, and I am now making a fuss. It's definitely long lasting and gives perfect coverage throughout the whole day. It has achieved what hundreds of concealers promise but fail to do- the majority I have tried- and I absolutely love it! For such a good price, if I were you, I'd jump on the Lasting Perfection Concealer bandwagon right now!

L'Oreal Paris- Mega Volume Miss Manga
Finally, The new L'Oreal Mega Volume Miss Manga mascara is kinda growing on me. On first application, like many mascaras, it's clump city- not a good look if you want your eyelashes to look… well, human. But after a little while, it does what it says on the tin, bottle, tube or whatever you want to call it. It does give that 'manga' appearance; lashes that go on for ever and a defined look that gets heads turning. But overall, it's not a mascara I would wear during the day for a natural look- maybe for an evening do when my eyelashes need to be manga-fied.

Check out my exclusive post for Girl Meets Dress!

Hello all you fellow fashionistas, exciting things are coming my way! I was so excited when I received an email from Girl Meets Dress, asking me to contribute to the blogging aspect of their fabulous website. Being a fairly new(ish) blogger, I was thrilled to be recognised by the fashion company, especially because my NY resolution was to work hard at improving the quality of my blog and getting it out there into the big wide world of beauty and fashion- who would of thought it ay!

I don't know about you, but I dread big events that require ball gowns, cocktail dresses or ensembles that will probably only be worn once; an excuse to burst the bank on expensive dresses that are left to gather dust when the night is over. But the answer is simple, simple as simple can be- RENT! I absolutely love the concept behind GMD; a luxury fashion website giving women the opportunity to rent designer dresses and accessories instead of paying the full eye watering price. It doesn't matter if you don't have a designer bank balance, because every woman deserves the right to feel confident and empowered, sporting the designer dress of their dreams. Thanks to the fairy god mother, GMD, Cinderella shall go to the ball. Being a student myself, I couldn't think of anything better!

I blogged about a few of my favourite cocktail dresses; from chic to unique, check out my opinion on these designer ensembles HERE !

Elise Ryan, Off Shoulder Lace Black Dress | TFNC Celia Dress | Gorgeous Couture Amelia Dress | Cavern, Two Tone Drape Dress | DARK PINK Fringe Maxi Dress 

From Alexander McQueen to Dolce & Gabbana, check out Girl Meets Dress to find your dream designer dress!  

A (not so) little message to my lovely bloggers!

Hello my wonderful beauty bloggers! I will try to keep this post quick and simple because I know I'll get soppy on you guys- BE WARNED: this blog may contain elements of soppiness, stop reading now if you're a teary one! But in all seriousness, this post is dedicated to all of you who have helped and supported me since I started my blog a couple of months ago. Since moving to London and starting university last September, I have to admit, I've let stress get the better of me. Blogging has been my escape, my own little world that I can shut myself into when I'm having a break from my assignments and never ending load of work- I'm sure you fellow students will understand (if you're reading then you're probably having a break from your tedious work load- thumbs up to you, you're doing brilliantly!).

Furthermore, since starting my blog, my confidence and self-esteem has blossomed; having the guts to put myself out there has opened many doors of opportunity for me- the thought of people reading my work frightened me to begin with. I kept imagining people reading my blog and thinking.. "who is this nut job?!", but the reaction I've had has been completely the opposite. 

My family and boyfriend have supported me from the very start, especially my nanny who is probably reading now- hello nanny!! and I couldn't be more grateful for the support and lovely feedback I've had on my blog. 

It wasn't until I started blogging that I realised, when one door closes, another one opens… but if it doesn't then force it open- this will probably be my signature, cheesy quote in years to come, but that's the advice I would've given to myself when times weren't as rosy as they are now. But in 2014 I plan to work even harder on my blog, improving my photography, writing style and building friendships with even more of you lovely bloggers. 

Oh and you may be thinking, "why have you stuck a random picture of you and your cat on this post?", but I love my kitty cat; she loves to sit next to me when I write my blogs and see what's going on- a little nosy parker like myself. She's my fluffy, cuddly alternative to my best friend- oh and her name is Choo… but that isn't the end of this little story… I have another one named Jimmy: JIMMY CHOO! How typically fashion/ beauty bloggerish of me, but I couldn't help but share that little fact with you!

Okay so this post wasn't as quick as simple as I promised, but it's my inner journalist trying to get out! But thank you for all your support, I am eternally grateful! Okay I'll be quiet now… 

Achieve those Sleek and chiseled cheekbones!

Don't lie ladies, we all want those celebrity chiseled cheekbones that have swamped the media over the past year. Apparently looking like we've been stuck in a wind tunnel has never seemed more appealing thanks to Kimmy Kardashian. But is it possible to get the high end look at an affordable price? YES YES YES, thanks to Sleek MakeUp! A god send for us unfortunates on a budget. 

 This Sleek face Contour Kit has managed to make it to my favourites, an exciting prospect considering I'm incredibly fussy when it comes to my makeup and skin. It's my sleek and secret tool, always at the ready in my handbag when those cheekbones need chiseling. 

I have to admit, I was incredibly excited when it got delivered the other day as I've never thought to use a contouring kit- mainly because my cheekbones aren't exactly existent so I didn't think using one would make a difference. But I guess magic can happen, because definition is now my best friend! 

It's also so affordable, so it made sense for me to try it; buying over priced products doesn't appeal to me, especially when I don't know if it will live up to the price. But this kit is worth every penny and probably my most genius buy in a long long time, and I have purchased some shockers in my time. 

The little kit of heaven contains a pressed powder and a highlighter, perfectly complimenting each other  to create subtle but noticeable definition. I am so obsessed with the highlighter I think I go a little over board with it, but you can never have enough right? It's so pigmented and girly so perfect for nights out or those days when less is more.
I decided to go for the lightest contouring kit, because I'm naturally quite pale and I didn't want the contouring to be too BAM in your face. I know I come from Essex, but the over the top orange look is definitely not my thing. Less is always more in my eyes- apart from nights out, then go crazy.

I like to apply the pressed powder on the apple of my cheeks and just underneath where my cheekbone should be. This creates a darker, defined look whilst applying the highlighter to the upper and lower area of the cheekbones emphasises the contouring, adding a beautiful shimmer. It's also so pigmented so lasts most of the day... who ever thought it could be so easy? However, due to my highlighting obsession I also like to apply it under the brow bone, tip of the nose and cupids bow. I find it creates a more natural, glowing look- although the first time I used it I looked like an explosion in a glitter factory… not the best look!

However, don't fall into the trap of getting too ambitious with your contouring- I think poor Linsey Lohan can show us the consequences of this. But of course, as always, Kim shows us how contouring should really look: chic, subtle and gorgeous! 

Thanks to Sleek, it doesn't matter if your cheekbones are kind of.. a tiny bit.. not there, because a little tweak with this contouring kit can go a long way! It's my favourite drug store product at the moment and an incredibly worthy REPURCHASE! Whether you've used it or not, let me know what you think!

"All the gear and no idea?" NO MORE!

Hello everybody! So, today I did something wild. Something that would make many peoples jaws drop. Something that is so excruciating, I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy... I ran. Christmas is over, along with the crazy calorie consumption that makes Christmas the best time of the year in my eyes; the only time of year when being a pig is fundamentally allowed. 

Now guys, it's time to replace your fluffy Christmas socks with your running shoes and rewind the clock back to your pre-Xmas body! 

Like my technologically inexperienced father, I am considered as having "all the gear and no idea". I have all the running clothes that enable me to do the deed, but as many of my close friends and family know, I am not built to run. My poor trainers have been collecting so much dust they can be considered as antique. Watching all my old baby videos prove that exercise will never be a talent of mine. You will see me moaning in the background because I don't want to walk anymore, or screaming on the floor because I want someone to carry me- a 'mini diva' as I like to call it. 

My New Year resolution is to start running, I know it sounds cliche but I want to start going to the gym and generally get into better shape, mainly for energy levels and that 'feel good factor' (as my Mum likes to call it)- but toning up and looking the part is always a bonus! 

Geared up with my snazzy Nike trainers and 'Ministry of Sound Running Trax 2014', today I took the first step towards completing my goal; although it felt like my heart was in my throat the whole time, I felt fresh and ready for the new day! I officially have a new mind set but my body has seen better days; now I feel like I need to lay down in a dark room for a few hours just to recover from my traumatising experience! 

(My Nikes: Revolution 2… and my new best friends)

You know what they say, no pain no gain. Although I now feel like my legs are about to give way, I am no longer classified as having "all the gear and no idea"!- although my father will continue to buy expensive hi-tech equipment and still have no idea.

What are your NY resolutions? I love to hear from you all!  

How to survive the winter months with Elizabeth Arden- My new found love!

E l i z a b e t h   A r d e n 

Oh winter, why do you dry out our skin so much? My skin has taken a battering this winter; cold chills drying it out and having to sport the flaky look.. I'm sure I haven't been the only one. Lips, skin, hands- the list is never ending but so many brands promise to solve this dilemma. Being blessed with combination skin means I never know how my skin is going to react to moisturisers, but this Eight Hour Cream set has shined a light on my little dilemma. Thanks to my lovely nanny (the most fabulous Nan in the world may I add) introducing me to this set, dry skin no longer has to be a problem for us ladies!

Firstly, it was the packaging that caught my eye. It seems to differ from Elizabeth Ardens usual look; goodbye chic and hello preppy. I love how the brand have tried to reach out to the younger consumers by tweaking the look of the packaging. The preppy look is relaxed, quick but fresh and this is parallel to the purpose of the products- a quick touch up that will prepare you to face the nippy, winter day.

Lip Protectant Stick SPF 15 

Lips always need seasonal hydration, especially during the winter when chapping becomes a common friend. This is why I love the Lip Protectant Stick, a clear balm that hydrates for supposedly up to 8 HOURS. Wear on its own for a beautiful natural shine, or on top of your favourite lipstick to add a glamorous shimmer. I found that the balm fulfilled its 'long lasting' promise but 8 hours is another story- there's nothing wrong with a little touch up here and there!

As many of you probably already know, Vaseline is my best friend and favourite form of lip hydration. But I have to admit that the Lip Protectant Stick has given it a substantial run for its money. It gives me long lasting lip hydration and after a couple of days left my lips feeling silky smooth! Although the shine doesn't last 8 hours, the hydration and protection aspect does. A well deserved candidate for my favourite lip care products. Sorry, my loyal friend Vaseline but you have been replaced by a better model!

Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant 

When I first tried this product, I thought it was going to be your usual creamy moisturiser that does the same old job. But as I squeezed out the contents for the first time, a thick golden balm came out. Feeling a little reluctant- because my skin doesn't usually work well with balms- I tried it anyway and applied it liberally all over my face. Elizabeth Arden wasn't lying when they insisted on 8 HOUR skin protection. Lets just say that I applied this balm 6 hours ago and as I'm sitting here now, my skin is still just as soft and glowing as when I first applied it.. woah!

BE WARNED: This product is every thick and rich; if you have oily skin, applying it may not be a good idea because oily skin types do not need extra hydration! However, I prefer to carefully dab some tissue over the applied areas, to soak up any excess product that might take longer to absorb.

I love products that promise numerous benefits and have multiple uses- nothing wrong with wanting more for our money girls! 

There are 8 great ways to use Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant: 

1) Skin saver: long lasting hydration for dry skin

2) Shine factor: adds shine to eyelids, cheeks, lips and legs- an all-in-one beauty product found in many professional makeup artists beauty bags!

3) Eye opener: only a dab smooths the eyebrows and perfectly defined arch that stays in place all day.

4) Cuticle conditioner: keeps dry cuticles soft and hydrated for supple and beautifully manicured nails.

5) Treat for feet: softens soles for barefoot beauty in every season.

6) After-sun soother: relieves minor sunburn and dry, irritated skin. 

7) Flight tool: Keep in your bag for intense hydration, perfect for travelling and applying on the go.

8) Leg wear: helps reduce redness after shaving and waxing, leaving legs feeling silky smooth. 

If you can find a product that can be used for as many purposes as this one, then tell me!… AMAZING

Wear underneath makeup or on its own, it creates a beautiful natural glow that I simply can't get enough of! Say goodbye to dry skin this winter… Thank you Lizzy Arden!

Eight Hour Cream Intensive Moisturising Hand Treatment

Yes I'm guilty, I don't use hand moisturises to be honest. They're the type of product I receive for birthdays or Christmas and they're left untouched in my makeup draws. 

However, after spending the majority of winter in London, my hands have suffered from the stupid amount of alcohol gel I have to use after jumping on the tubes- if you haven't been to London before or having a fly in visit, then take my advise, bring some alcohol gel or antibacterial gel!  Amazingly beautiful city, but germs.. everywhere. 

This hand cream has changed my mind, I have discovered that taking care of your hands is very very important after seeing and feeling the effects of Elizabeth Ardens hand cream. It smells luxurious and leaves my hands feeling silky smooth with long lasting hydration.. perfect! I'm not an expert when it comes to 'hand moisture' or whatever you call it, but this product does the job brilliantly and is simply a luxurious treat! 

I'm so impressed with this set and can't wait to carry on using it. I would definitely recommend purchasing it; the ultimate beauty set to help you survive the long treacherous winter months! Let me know how you get on! 

So it's winter and your makeup routine doesn't seem to help your dry, flaky skin. Want a quick and cheap way to make your foundation last longer whilst keeping hydrated at the same time?  Thanks to my lovely nanny, this tip has helped me to do so. It's so simple its unbelievable and you can save so much money when buying high priced tinted moisturisers. Simply combine your favourite moisturiser and foundation together to create your own ultra hydrating product. It will leave your skin feeling extra smooth and hydrated- its now easier to create a flawless look whilst looking after your skin. Even better, apply your foundation with the Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant to create a beautiful shine alongside maintaing professional skin care. Shhhh.. don't tell anyone!