A COSY PAIR OF PYJAMAS FOR WINTER


With weather promises of ice and snow I was a little disappointed with the mild December days. This week, it has finally felt like winter is on it's way. Frosty mornings, bitter cold gales and scatterings of snow have finally hit and I'm holding tightly onto all of the cosy, comforting, wintry things. 

When I saw these adorable pyjamas from Asos I snapped them up straight away, last week on twitter I professed my love for the gorgeous Space Set, I've been practically living in them! They're super comfy, so soft - almost like brushed cotton and the perfect set to hibernate in on cold winter days. Pyjamas>Clothes.

As soon as I spotted them, I needed this Robot Set, a few clicks away and they landed on my doorstep last week. Whoops. They're not quite as soft as the Space Set - but probably nothing a couple of washes won't fix.

The best/worst thing is that Asos seem to have an array of this style of dreamy loungewear and it keeps coming in new cute designs. Here's a few of my favourite picks, I LOVE the cloud set and the donut ones, I'm patiently waiting for this Unicorn set to come back in stock too, maybe just one more set...

P.s The Unicorn Slippers are from Topshop! 

5 PICK ME UP'S FOR JANUARY

I think we've probably all had our fair share of January Blues this winter, with bad news rolling in (devastated about Alan Rickman) and bitterly cold, dark days it's been quite a tough start to the year.
I've pulled together a list of 5 things that have helped to cheer me up this month, (here's a little post from last year too) hopefully these can help to pick you up if your feeling the January blues like me!

1. Lush's Unicorn Horn. 
This magical, multicoloured lustre filled bubble bar is the ultimate mood boosting treat. Full of relaxing lavender and uplifting neroli, It's the perfect little pick me up, Neroli oil actually increases serotonin levels in the brain (which makes you feel cheery) plus the dreamy watermelon pink water and sparkly bubbles are guaranteed to make you smile!

2. Loungewear. 
You probably spotted my ode to Asos pyjamas here last week, there's something about these super soft, cosy pyjamas that have totally brightened up my January. As part of my restful, recharging January plan, these along with Netflix, blankets and tea have helped me to keep cosy, relaxed and warm.

3. Getting lost in a good book. 
The Harry Potter series never fail to cheer me up. After pulling all of the squashy blankets that I own onto the sofa, I light a few candles, pop on some fairy lights and pour myself a large mug full of hot chocolate, It's my fail-safe, comforting pick me up ritual. 
I've recently pre-ordered a few new books too to give me something to look forward to in the months/days ahead. This is my latest preorder, written by the same author as The Selection series, hopefully it will be a good read to get lost in!

4. Treat yourself to something new. 
Whether it's a new lipstick, nail polish, candle or fresh flowers sometimes a new luxe treat can help to cheer you up and make you feel a little happier. I'm tempted to splurge on this dreamy Diptyque candle (that pink packaging!) or maybe pick up some pink tulips to brighten up my mood this winter!

5. Plan the year. 
This January I decided to make a note of all of the positive things upcoming in the year ahead. It's so nice to have the year mapped out with so many things to look forward to and it really helps me to keep a positive mindset. I note everything down each month, from exciting events to book/film/dvd/product releases. For example in February there's my brothers 18th, Valentines day, a planned Ikea shop and lot's of exciting DVD releases to look forward to (The Intern, The Scorch Trials & Hotel Transylvania 2!), in May/June I can look forward to peonies, strawberries and ice cold smoothies, November brings my Birthday, great films - (Fantastic Beasts!!) and a potential trip to the Harry Potter Studios and then there's always so much to look forward to in December!

How do you stay happy in January?

A WEDDING 'TO DO' LIST FOR THE YEAR AHEAD

1. Find a Wedding Planner book, I didn't realise quite how much there is to note down! Having somewhere to hand when I'm out and about or when inspiration hits sounds ideal, I love the look of this notebook.

2. Design our wedding rings. 

3. Start trying on dresses. With ASOS (love this one!) and Needle & Thread (so dreamy) conveniently now selling bridal dresses I really need to start the process of finding the perfect dress

4. Cake tasting. Chocolate cake, caramel cake, sponge cake, red velvet... can I just have a tier of each?

5. Choose my wedding fragrance, so far it's a toss up between Ellie Saab Le Parfum and a Jo Malone cologne, they all smell heavenly!

6. Pick a lipstick, I have a feeling that choosing my wedding make up may take me a while. I'd love one to keep as a keepsake after the wedding, so possibly a Charlotte Tilbury one (that packaging!), I just can't decide on the shade!

7. Browse Pinterest, brochures and blogs for the perfect honeymoon/wedding destination. The Maldives was my ideal choice but as you can't actually officially get married there and so I'm still on the look out for other locations.

8. Research flowers for my bouquet, let's face it I'll probably end up with something simple like some gorgeous peonies & a spray of gypsophila but I want to see what will be in season and readily available - there's something quite therapeutic about looking at so many pretty floral arrangements!

9. ...Then hunt down a shop that will turn my fresh bouquet into a paperweight to keep forever - like this. I love the idea!

10. Splurge on this Love, Laughter & Happily Ever After passport holder, it's adorable!

A FEBRUARY TO DO LIST

1. Pick up these adorable Valentines heart socks,

2. Organise Everything. From make up to kitchen cutlery, I want to streamline and organise it all!

3. Splurge on this dreamy limited edition, Pink Diptyque candle.

4. Saviour the last of the cold, cosy winter days before Spring arrives with Lush baths, hot chocolates and cosy knits.

5. Nail the perfect pancake recipe ready for pancake day on the 9th. SO excited for lemon & sugar, nutella and maple syrup toppings- what's you're favourite pancake topping?

6. Take a trip to Ikea for storage, plant pots & maybe a cushion or two!

7. Treat myself to the second Harry Potter colouring book, those pygmy puffs!

8. Also pre-order the Yule Ball Hermione Pop Vinyl.

9. Start an honest weekly food diary, inspired by Lily. It's seems like such a great way to discover how to improve my diet and to see whether I need to add more water, fruit or vegetables.

10. Try and resist these dreamy Flying Pony Pyjamas, I dont need any more ASOS pyjamas...do i?

A WARDROBE OVERHAUL

Following on with my de-cluttering plan for the new year, I've started off this month by tackling my wardrobe. 
Out of everything that I own, I find my clothes the most difficult things to sort. Sequined dresses are packed away just incase, items for potential halloween costumes are stored away (even though I haven't gone out for halloween in about 6 years!) and red velvet skirts saved to be whipped out at Christmas. I just can't let go! I've pulled together a plan that will hopefully lead me on to a fresh, clutter free wardrobe, hopefully they can help you too!

Change the way I store my clothes:
By following the Marie Kondo method of folding and storing my clothes in drawers, it's really helped me to streamline my them, 1000 black tops don't all fit when stacked neatly in a line and so it's really helped me to prioritise and organise my stash.
I've also invested in a clothes rail from Ikea, new copper hangers and drawer dividers. Keeping my clothes minimal, neat and clutter free makes the whole area look a lot more appealing and makes for the ideal dressing area.

Organise into piles:
I've found it best to gather all of my clothes into three piles; Keep, Maybe, and Donate/Sell. I place the Keep pile, which consists of clothes I wear every week, new clothes and clothes I want to make an effort to wear more back into my drawers and closet, the Maybe pile gets stored in a box. This way if I miss anything too much I can always pull it back out again, if by the end of the year I haven't missed anything, then I can go through it again and donate most of it! Lastly the Donate/Sell pile gets sorted out straight away and put up on depop/ebay or whisked off to the charity shop so that I can't change my mind!

Be Ruthless:
Try things on, wear them for a day - are they comfortable? Do they make you feel good? If not, then give them to a better home, someone who will enjoy and appreciate them!

Buy:
I've found that planning a shopping trip or a cheeky Asos haul (this LBD is such great staple!) can help me to part ways with some of my pre-loved but no longer needed items. If I get rid of 10 pieces, selling and donating, then I can treat myself to a new item that I'll make sure I love and get a lot of wear from.

How do you de-clutter your wardrobe?

FEBRUARY GOLD FAVOURITES

I'm so smitten with my Robert's Radio, it's been such a worthwhile investment piece, I've used it so much so far! Aside from it looking pretty on my shelves, it's a real treat to own, just one click and the radio accompanies me whilst I clean, cook or exercise!
Another favourite this month is Harry Potter, after yet another film marathon, news about the Cursed Child script/book and with wave 2 of the pop vinyls on the way I'm still so in love with the series.

I've had a thing for ring holders this month, I love this cat ring dish from Etsy, I've recently picked up this Muji ring holder I've got my eye on this adorable West Elm cat ring dish too!

For beauty, the icy February days left me still reaching for glitters and wintry tones. The By Terry Ombre Blackstar in Misty Rock is a gorgeous shimmery lavender taupe with sliver glitter running through it, perfect paired with winged liner and a glossy pink lip. I've also still been adding a swipe of glittery polish to my mani courtesy of Essie's Rock at the Top, a gorgeous gold glitter.

The Sleek Solstice Highlighting Palette has been one of my top picks for a dewy complexion, with four shimmery shades it's ideal for radiant skin. 
Another pick this month to combat dry, lacklustre skin is the multi-purpose Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Miracle Oil*. With a combination of heavenly oils, omegas 6 & 9 and vitamin e, it's been a real treat for my parched winter skin.

Lastly, this dreamy Denman D4 Red Carpet Brush with actual 24k gold plating is my luxe favourite this month. Denman brushes are my top picks for silky soft tresses, the anti static rubber pad and nylon pins combine to make this the ideal everyday brush. It's currently half price and something to treasure for years!

What were your favourite products in February?

NEW IN: A SPRING HAUL

Despite the occasional frosty morning, there's been a definite hint of spring in the air. I've been doing my fair share of spring shopping, picking up accessories, make up and home decor ready for the warmer months!

After hearing the exciting news about ASOS's new reward system last week, I placed an order straight away. After resolving to find the perfect pair of sunglasses this year (they just don't seem to suit me!) I picked up a variety of pairs to try out. In the end, I fell in love with this pair, they're comfortable, flattering and the gold detailing is beautiful!

For the home, I finally took the plunge and ordered this dreamy brass West Elm Love Sign. Placed among prints, alongside books on a shelf or on a dressing table, it looks so pretty and homely.

I also invested in a couple of Charlotte Tilbury beauty picks. The Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise in Jean is an everyday staple, this shimmery champagne, vitamin e enriched cream eyeshadow brightens the whole eye area with it's light reflecting pigments, I also opted for the Charlotte Tilbury Kissing Lipstick in Coachella Coral, a perky coral pink, this looks like the ideal shade for spring.

Another beauty pick I snapped up is the Barry M Mani Mask as my nails have been feeling quite dry. This works well as a base coat or as a wash of colour worn on it's own, hopefully it will help to inject a little moisture back into my nails!

Lastly, Topshop currently have an array of dreamy lingerie and I just couldn't resist this delicate mint Lace Triangle Bra with rose gold detailing. Ideal for lazy days at home, this bralette is so comfy, it's elasticated band means that it's easy to size up or down depending on your cup size too! I've already got my eye on the pink and burgundy shade to get next!

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A MARCH TO DO LIST


1. Spring clean my home.

2. Find the perfect transitional dress, I love this grey one!

3. Bake Mars Rice Crispy Cakes (recipe here) they're divine, sticky, chocolatey and with silky caramel running through them they're so moorish!

4. Pick up a perky spring blusher, I have my eye on the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Diffused Heat.

5. Take early afternoon walks to spot and snap spring blooms, blossoming trees and pastel sunsets.

6. Buy a pastel pom pom for my bag, I have my eye on this blush faux fur one!

7. Indulge in a bag of mini eggs or two....or three.

8. Switch up my make up for spring, invest in lighter bases like the Nars Velvet Matte Skin Tint Foundation.

9. Display daffodils and tulips to make the home feel bright and fresh.

10. Treat myself to a new lilac polish - Essie's Lilacism is currently on deal and on the top of my wishlist!

What's on your to do list for March?

A MARCH TO DO LIST


1. Spring clean my home.

2. Find the perfect transitional dress, I love this grey one!

3. Bake Mars Rice Crispy Cakes (recipe here) they're divine, sticky, chocolatey and with silky caramel running through them they're so moorish!

4. Pick up a perky spring blusher, I have my eye on the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Diffused Heat.

5. Take early afternoon walks to spot and snap spring blooms, blossoming trees and pastel sunsets.

6. Buy a pastel pom pom for my bag, I have my eye on this blush faux fur one!

7. Indulge in a bag of mini eggs or two....or three.

8. Switch up my make up for spring, invest in lighter bases like the Nars Velvet Matte Skin Tint Foundation.

9. Display daffodils and tulips to make the home feel bright and fresh.

10. Treat myself to a new lilac polish - Essie's Lilacism is currently on deal and on the top of my wishlist!

What's on your to do list for March?

HOME GOALS

After passing the two year mark for our rental flat this year, I decided to note down some home goals for the year ahead. I'm so grateful to have a lovely light and airy flat but it still doesn't completely feel like home, I've mapped out a few plans to hopefully make it feel a little more so.

Update our Living Room:
Our old, tiny, battered chocolate brown sofa has long seen it's best days and so we've decided it's finally time to invest in new seating arrangements, my dream loveseat from Made is still a little out of reach and so we've settled on the more budget friendly and affordable option of the DFS Angelic sofa in grey.
I've also fallen head over heels for this copper floor lamp from Made, I love it's simplistic design! Lighting brings so much to a room, it's certainly an investment piece but one to treasure for a long time.

Create a Workspace Area:
Having a nice work space with everything organised and close to hand really helps to up my productivity levels. I'm currently on the lookout for a new desk, something along the lines of this Graphix white desk, or a cheap ikea one like this that I can personalise a little with copper or gold spray paint. 
I'm also keeping an eye out for inspirational prints and pretty decor, I love this Gold Alphabet Letter from Oliver Bonas!
Colour schemes: 
My current plans are for a crisp, clean, white canvas with pops of colour (mint, corals, pinks), metallic's and greys. For the kitchen I'm aiming for marble, gold accessories (cutlery, serving spoons), white, wood & grey. My living room is attached to the kitchen and so will hopefully follow a similar theme with a hint of copper/rose gold and pop's of colour. Lastly my bedroom is a little more airy and light with wintry tones and cool hues -white/cream, silver, teal/mint and grey.

Add Greenery:
Not only do plants help to improve indoor air quality, they brighten up the home with fresh bursts of green. After successfully propagating my first succulent (succulent babies are so cute!) I'm planning on creating a little terrarium succulent garden, this terrarium looks like the ideal place to start!
I'm also planning on making a windowsill herb garden, hopefully filled with basil, thyme and rosemary. Tiger have some affordable organic seeds in at the moment, so I might try and start completely from scratch! 

Decor Plans:
My plans are to invest in a set of new bedding - love this ikea set, I'm also planning on snapping up this copper lampshade for my office/dressing table area, Lastly I'm on the hunt for some bathroom storage, I love these gold and copper baskets from H&M home!

Do you have any home updates planned this year?

17 INSTANT MOOD BOOSTERS

Over the past few weeks I've been feeling a little glum, although I can't quite shake this slump I've found a few great ways to instantly lift my mood. Here's a little list of tried and tested ways to boost your spirits, I hope they help if like me you're still feeling the winter blues!

1. Fresh Bedding.

2. A spritz of your favourite perfume.

3. New socks, especially when they're glittery, pastel pink unicorn socks!

4. Dancing to Beyonce whilst whipping up a batch of Nigel Slater's Heavenly Chocolate Brownies.

5. The sound of rain. (Or rainymood.com)

6. A Parks and Recreation, Friends or Harry Potter marathon.

7. Asos Pyjamas (these ones are dreamy)

8. Spring Blooms and blossoming tree's.

9. Fairylights.

10. The anticipation for your favourite season. Mine is Autumn - I love the colourful leaves, cinnamon spice, pumpkins & cosy knits!

11. Diptyque candles, lighting a luxe candle is such a treat. 

12. A spoonful of Nutella, or Deliciously Ella's Vegan hazelnut chocolate spread.

13. Browsing H&M home and planning a room make-over!

14. Melting into a Lush bath.

15. Peppermint hot chocolate, topped with marshmallows in a cute Anthropologie mug.

16. Michael Buble's Christmas Album. 

17. Painting your nails with a glitter polish, like Essie's A Cut Above.

SPRING GOALS

With lighter mornings, spring blooms and sunnier days ahead it's the ideal time to refresh and set out a few new aims and goals for the upcoming months. I've listed a few spring goals below, hopefully I can tick them off over the next few months!

De-Clutter
My first goal is to de-clutter and organise my whole home. I read The Life Changing Magic of Tidying last week in record time and it's completely motivated me to have a huge clear out. Old books, DVD's and clothes have been bundled up into bags and sent off to be donated. Even though I've only just started and it's such a big job I'm already feeling inspired, I've been Pinning away my dream home details, it's amazing how much a clear out can make you feel better!

Clean Eating
Another aim is to jump back onto the clean eating wagon, as the days get warmer I'm hoping that I will no longer crave comforting carb heavy meals, instead I'm planning on swapping them for healthier options like soups, veggies and salads. I've been trying to improve my snacking habits too, sipping on lemon water, snacking on dried fruit and veggie sticks with houmous. I've even ordered some almond butter with this weeks shop to spread on rice cakes and dollop on my morning porridge - yum! I'm on the lookout for some good recipe books too, I'd love to know your recommendations!

Bathroom Re-vamp
A goal high on my list is to re-vamp my bathroom. One of my favourite, relaxing rituals involves a pampering skincare routine followed by a long Lush bath. I'd love to create the perfect space filled with fluffy towels, gold accents, a little greenery and as many Lush products as I can gather to relax and unwind in. I've actually placed a huge H&M home order (a haul will hopefully be up later this week!), I've gone with a white, blush pink, grey, gold and marble theme!

Lighter Bases
Lastly, after slathering my dry winter skin with rich, nourishing creams for a while now, I'm hoping that Spring will allow me to switch up my skincare routine. I'm aiming to find a good, fool-proof skincare and make up base routine for the warmer months, I'll definitely carry the dreamy Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel through with me to spring (I just can't get enough of the stuff!) and possibly invest in a tinted moisturiser from Nars, the Origins Ginzing energy boosting moisturiser is ideal for Spring too!

Do you have any goals for Spring?

10 THINGS TO DO OVER THE EASTER WEEKEND


1. Have a huge de-clutter and spring clean.

2. Eat ALL of the easter eggs, Lindt gold bunnies and mini eggs!

3. Treat yourself to a bunny mug, mine's from Sainsburys, the sheep is adorable too!

4. Stock up on M&S Toffee Fudge and Belgian Chocolate Hot Cross Buns - they're heavenly! (Plus, no raisins!)

5. Pick up a spring pastel jumper in the sales, I have my eye on dreamy this pink one!

6. Bake a light and fluffy lemon drizzle cake.

7. Browse the new spring things that are trickling into stores, I love this mint rain mac from Asos!

8. Take a long walk, snapping magnolia trees and cherry blossom along the way.

9. Paint your nails with a transitional shade like Essie Maximilian Strasse-Her (I'm wearing it above).

10. Make an epic, Christmas worthy roast dinner on Easter Sunday, with rosemary roast potatoes, gravy and as many vegetables as you can muster up!

A SPRING ASOS WISHLIST


Asos is at the top of their game this spring, with bridal collections, spring dresses, jackets galore and dreamy accessories, my saved items are full to the brim with gorgeous things.
I'm beyond impressed with Asos' bridal collection, I'm actually really in love with this dress - it's so affordable for a wedding dress. I've literally just ordered it to try on, it may just be the one! 
Here's a round up of my current favourite picks, from sunglasses to mint coloured rain macs, It has you sorted for spring!

JANUARY TO DO LIST

pretty flatlay
1. Nail the perfect smoothie recipe with chia seeds, frozen fruit, agave nectar and a handful of spinach thrown in for good measure!

2. Pick up this Honeycomb Wine Rack, whilst it's less than half price in the sale to coincide with my new year goal of getting organised and sprucing up my kitchen. Maybe this dreamy muffin tray too!

3. Spend a gloomy, wintry day reading Harry Potter with candles burning and a mug of hot chocolate in hand. With winter blues slowly creeping in it's important for me to savour a few good moments to myself. This cat mug is the perfect size for a creamy hazelnut hot chocolate!

4. Snap up these adorable Robot Pyjamas from Asos, I already have this Space set and they are the cosiest, softest pair that I own!

5. Feed the birds. With winter finally setting in the birds will be getting hungry, last year several robins and even a cheeky magpie visited me daily for food!

6. Bake a warming, cinnamon apple crumble with dairy free salted caramel ice cream. Cooking apples are in season at the moment, they're perfect for winter as they're full of antioxidants and vitamin C. Add a dash of ginger or cinnamon and a dollop of ice cream to make it a cosy wintry treat.

7. Find a nice, comfortable, well fitting pair of trainers. This is already proving unbelievably hard for my size 2 feet! I love this New Balance pair, but they're not available in my size. I'm so tempted to ditch the idea of normal trainers and splurge on a pair of Disney Vans!

8. Invest in a new highlighter, with winter bringing me dull, lacklustre skin I'm in desperate need of a glow. I've got my eye on either Becca Champagne Pop or the Kevin Auction The Celestial Powder in Candlelight.

9. Pick up some fresh pink tulips to brighten up the home - things are looking a little bare without the Christmas decor!

10. Aim for 20 minutes of exercise a day - Yoga, Cycling or Blogilaties!

What's on your January to do list?

GETTING ORGANISED IN JANUARY

January for me is a time to get organised, with a hint of motivation in the air, it's the perfect month for fresh starts, clear outs and straightening things out for the year ahead. With plans this month to adopt a more minimalistic approach and to declutter my surroundings ready for the new year, I've pulled together a list of my plans to help me along the way. I'm also tempted to pick up The Life Changing Magic of Tidying by Marie Kondo this month to give me that final push to part with most of my unworn pieces from my wardrobe!

1. Invest in a planner/diary/wall calendar:
During the last part of 2015 I printed out a calendar to note down my blogging schedule, life updates, errands and things to do/buy. Having the month completely mapped out really helped to up my productivity and kept me so motivated. I found that planning in advance helped me to prioritise and get organised, plus, using metallic pens to write down events was so satisfying to do each month (the little things!).
Along with a monthly calendar printout, I find that keeping a daily diary really helps to keep everything organised and close to hand. This makes it the perfect place to scribble down ideas, current favourites, things that your grateful for, songs to listen to, TV shows to check out, make up to swatch, appointments and to keep track of your health and fitness. 

2. Have a digital detox:
After backing up and transferring any keepsakes to an external hard drive It's so rewarding to have a huge clear out your laptop. My photo's have racked up to the thousands and my desktop is feeling a little cluttered so it's high on my priorities to do this January.
Organising documents into neat folders and deleting any unwanted apps, items and photos can really help to clear your mind and get you set up ready for the new year. I'm planning on compiling a folder of my favourite photos to print out as soon as possible, Kate Spade and Paperchase have some beautiful photo albums at the moment!

3. Get into a routine:
I work best to a schedule and whilst some days I throw everything out the window to go exploring or to lay on the sofa all day and have a Harry Potter marathon, most days I stick to it quite well.
My schedule includes everything from work to Netflix, I make sure to schedule in exercise, rest, work, hobbies and TV to keep me motivated, normally working to a reward. I also try to schedule an hour of 'me time' a week - whether it's time colouring in my Harry Potter colouring book, melting into a Lush bath for an hour or having a long skincare pamper. A routine for me is key to staying productive.

4. Plan Meals
A sure-fire way to save time and organise your evenings is to make a big list of all your favourite foods and signature dishes and then plan your meals for the week. I do this on a Sunday evening, making a note with daily meals and inspiration for the week ahead before taking to Ocado (who price match most products to Tesco and so are surprisingly affordable!) to buy the ingredients. Shopping online not only saves me time but it helps me to stick to a shopping budget, there's less time for procrastination (no distracting, tempting cookie aisles), no stresses of supermarket shopping and it lets me spend valuable time on other things.

5. Make lists/Invest in some new stationery:
Not only does an array of dreamy stationary and pens (I love everything here!) motivate me to keep lists and stay organised, list making helps me to prioritise and let's me note down any exciting plans, goals and ideas. 'To do' lists are ideal to keep on track and organised, I love keeping wish lists, to buy lists, meal inspiration lists, ideas lists, errands lists and shopping lists!

How do you keep organised?

NEW YEAR GOALS 2016

Happy New Year! I hope you had a nice NYE! I spent mine at home, watching the fireworks on TV, toasting the New Year with a glass of sparkling elderflower and snacking on cinnamon sugared Churros drizzled with Nutella (amazing!). After noting down last years resolutions and successfully being able to revisit and meet quite a few, I thought that I would make a list for this year too!

1. Declutter.
In 2016 I'm planning on adopting a more organised, minimalistic attitude starting with a huge overhaul of my bedroom. I'm also looking for a better way to organise my make up in 2016, as much as I love my Alex drawers, I don't feel that I utilise them or get the best use of my make up that's stored in it. I also desperately need to clear out my nail polishes!
This year I also hope to change the way that I shop by buying less, better quality things. I'm planning on investing in pieces that I love, rather than buying several of the same thing. Starting with my kitchen I picked up this beautiful pink Anthropologie mug, this gorgeous set of pink alabaster coasters and this dreamy gold cutlery set.

2. Do More.
With anxiety being quite a big issue for me in 2015, I kept to myself, staying indoors most days instead of venturing out. Towards the end of this year, I decided to plan a few exciting events for 2016 so that I can look forward to exploring new places and meeting new people. A few things on the agenda are:
Visit the Harry Potter Studio Tour again (when the Christmas decor is up!).
Discover new farmers markets to find fresh organic seasonal food.
Visit a european Christmas Market.
Join an exercise class, with Alex if only for the lol's at how unfit we are!
Take a day trip to Cambridgeshire.

I also hope to make a little more time 'offline' to do things I love like knitting, calligraphy, cross stitching, colouring in the Harry Potter Colouring book, reading, animal crossing, DIY and yoga.

3. Health.
Starting off the year with a round of Yoga With Adriene's Yoga Camp I hope to propel myself back into exercising after the Christmas slump. I'm also hoping to dust of my NutriBullet and discover some new delicious, healthy smoothie recipes to make daily. My new Spiralizer makes preparing lunch a dream, courgetti with pesto and toasted cashew nuts or halloumi is my new favourite thing to eat!

A few additional goals include:
Staying positive.
Organise, clear out and print out my favourite photos.
Reorganise and update my kitchen.
Read more, aim for a book a month (at least).
Invest in a few, healthy cookbooks to work my way through and to create new signature dishes.
Make wedding planning a priority, save, plan and start to buy things ready for the day!
Grow more, start a windowsill herb garden.

What are your New Years resolutions/goals?

FAVOURITE DISCOVERIES OF 2015

I've had quite a few new favourites this year ranging from beauty to food, there's been so many great discoveries!

Starting with the food category, I made so many great dairy free finds this year. From salted caramel ice-cream to vegan mac and cheese I've found an alternative to all of my favourites this year. I also got a little obsessed with sauerkraut this year, packed with vitamins and with incredible probiotic properties I guess its not the worst thing to be addicted to!

Another great discovery for me this year was Netflix (I'm a little late to the game). I've watched some unbelievable series this year, Once Upon a Time is one of my top picks, with Disney, magic and enchanted forests for me there's nothing not to love! Me and Alex binge watched all 7 series of Sons Of Anarchy in autumn, one for the Breaking Bad/Sopranos fan this gem is not to be missed. Lastly, Merlin stole my heart, almost harry potter-eque, witty and charming this series was a great little find.

With H&M home, Anthropologie and Homebase producing some cult/sort after pieces this year 2015 saw my love for homewares rocket. Diptyque candles also started to make an appearance in my home, their dreamy scents and packaging seriously upping my shelfie game.

My favourite album this year surprisingly goes to Justin Bieber's Purpose, after having it on repeat throughout the past couple of months I'm pretty sure I know all of the words backwards by now!

There's been some great cruelty free make up and skincare finds this year, with brands like Becca, Charlotte Tilbury, Nars, Hourglass, Oskia and By Terry I've had a great range of options to choose from.
The Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel has completely boosted my skincare regime, it's changed my lacklustre skin into a soft, radiant complexion. I also finally took the plunge and ordered the Hourglass Ambient Lighting blusher in Mood Exposure last autumn, this finely milled, silky soft blusher is one of my top picks - I'm already saving my Space NK points up for another!
I also have to note the Nars lip pencils, although they were a discovery in late December last year, their dreamy formula has pushed them to the top of my favourite lip products. I'm waiting patiently for Torres Del Paine, a limited edition, dreamy peach coral to come back so that I can snap up a full sized one!

Lastly, I have to give a little mention to ASOS who have saved me on a number of occasions in 2015 with last minute/next day Wedding Guest dress options, events pieces and gift options! These Satin Cami Pyjamas were a great discovery for me, I also found a the perfect wedding guest dress (similar here) that saved me from a wardrobe disaster in April!

What were your favourite discoveries of 2015?
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10 THINGS TO DO OVER CHRISTMAS

With Christmas week fast approaching, I've pulled together a little list of all things festive to do over the Christmas period. It feels like December is flying past and so I want to cram in as much Christmassy things as possible next week, these are the 10 things that I'm planning to do over the festive period:

1. Pick up a copy of the Radio Times and circle the best TV picks over Christmas.

2. Get any last minute Christmas presents, I always wrap up a couple of big bars of chocolate and put them under the tree for any surprise visitors. I've got my gift guides here for last minute inspiration too!

3. Pull out all of the glittery, sparkly, shimmery Christmassy make up to wear.

4. Make festive popcorn - drizzle melted white chocolate over popcorn, sprinkle red and green sugar strands over and add a dash of ground ginger/cinnamon. Then have a Christmas film marathon!

5. Put on the Christmas bedding - you know the kind, the soft, cosy nordic printed brushed cotton type like this dreamy set.

6. Pick up that Christmas jumper that you've had your eye on (I love this one) or keep an eye out for a steal in the sales!

7. Make Star Wars snowflakes, they're fun to make and look so impressive! Tie them around gifts wrapped in brown paper (like this) for a cute gift wrap idea for the boys!

8. Wear your favourite red lipstick and paint your nails with a festive glittery shade like Essie Tassel Shaker.

9. Visit a Christmas market for mulled wine, cute decorations and carols.

10. Relax. Christmas is a time to unwind, eat good food, visit family and indulge a little!

What are your plans over the festive period?

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ME, FROM ME

With some incredible discounts floating around on Black Friday, things got a little spendy around here and I just couldn't resist picking up a few things for myself. I seem to spend a little more around autumn/winter, with fluffy slippers, soft PJ's and autumnal shades it's my favourite time to shop.

I've had my eye on these Frends Layla Rose Gold Headphones for the longest time and with 40% off I couldn't resist picking up a pair. They're so comfortable, the sound quality is good and they look so pretty on. I've had a couple of issues with my pair as they arrived damaged in the post and the Frends team have been super helpful, I'm hoping that once replaced, these will last me a long time - I'm so in love with them!

From ASOS, I took full advantage of their 20% off code and ordered as many kinds of these gorgeous Satin Cami and Short Pyjama Sets as I could. It's been fairly mild in my home and so I wanted some new lightweight pj's to pair with my warm winter duvet. I made the mistake of thinking that I would simply choose my favourite colour and then return the rest but I completely fell in love with these and in the end narrowed it down to two pairs, this beautiful burgundy shade and a white pair that Alex has tucked away for me until Christmas. The material is divine, floaty, satin soft and so comfortable. A new firm favourite!

Armed with a voucher and 10% off, I spent far too long procrastinating about which Charlotte Tilbury make up to splurge on. In the end, I couldn't decide and so settled for this beautiful burgundy and rose gold make up bag, it's the ideal size for my everyday make up.

I also picked up these adorable Topshop Unicorn Slippers which unfortunately weren't in the sale. However the soft, fluffy lining and cute embellishments make these my perfect slippers, I know i'll get a ton of wear from them in winter as they keep my feet so toasty warm!

Lastly, to start my new years resolutions off a little early, I invested in an exercise bike. Argos has a great discount on this still and along with my nectar points I got this for a fairly good price. The seat is a little uncomfortable but I'm used to it now, I've been cycling away and even having a go at some Youtube spinning videos, I'm starting to see the benefits already!

Did you buy anything in the sales?