Update and new series!!

Hello!

It's been so long since I have posted on here, and I feel like there is a lot to share!

 My last post was published roughly half way through my A level exams, which seems like such a long time ago. Since then I have had my last ever day at school (which was so emotional), and my prom which was the most amazing night.

About 20 of my friends gathered to get ready together and then we made our way to the venue which was decorated to a James Bond theme. There were fairy lights everywhere, a casino, and a photo

booth- which proved to be very popular as there were fancy dress props included. It was so lovely to see all of my friends in one place, especially as they all looked so beautiful! I took my boyfriend along as my date, and it was the second prom we attended together. We all had a really good time! Below is our official photo from the night <3

The next event to update you all on was my holiday to Zante with my girls! There were 12 of us in total which I thought would result in a lot of arguments, but I was surprised at how easily we all got on, and it was one of my favourite holidays. We went with Thompson and managed to get a really cheap deal which made me think the quality of the holiday wasn't going to be very good, however I was pleasantly surprised. The hotel was amazing with the friendliest manager you could ask for. The night life was insane, and so incredibly cheap too! During the day we did a number of activities such as a VIP boat party/ cruise, shopping, and hiring our own boat for a few hours. Even though we didn't see any turtles which was the purpose of the boat trip, it did mean I was able to drive a boat for the first time and we had a great time getting lost and marooned on a lonely beach.

I didn't go on holiday with my family this year, partly because mum wanted to save up for a new kitchen, but mostly because dad ruptured his Achilles and couldn't walk for a good three months. He's on the mend now and managed to drive the car again last week for the first time since he had his injury.

After coming back from Zante I was thrilled to find I had a job interview at a popular high street clothes store- one that I have loved since I was young! Despite working in shops before, this was my first job interview so I was very nervous, however the interviewer was lovely and made me feel at ease. Needless to say, I got the job and worked there for the rest of the summer until I had to move away. Whilst it was hard to say goodbye to my colleagues at my previous job (I worked there for two years!) I really loved working in the new shop and made so many new friends.

My boyfriend and I wanted a mini holiday before I moved away and so decided to spend a couple of days in London as he has never done the typical 'touristy' things- which I found very hard to believe! We stayed for one night at a very luxurious hotel in Kensington, but arrived early on the first day and went home late on the last so we got two whole days in London. We managed to pack a lot into our days, including a trip on the London Eye and the 4D Experience, Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, Trafalgar Square, the Palace, Hyde Park and so much more! I have to say I am now an expert at navigating the London tube! The hotel was amazing as we got access to the Business Lounge, which meant complimentary drinks!

Big Ben

Business Lounge drinks

London Eye

I mentioned that I had to leave my new job after just a few months and this is because I GOT INTO UNIVERSITY!!! Results day came around and I had already decided that I wouldn't stress myself over it because I had a number of options to choose from- however I knew that if I didn't get into my first choice, I would retake the year at school until I got the grades. I don't know why I put it down as an option but I really didn't like my insurance choice, so it was my first choice or nothing! Luckily I was accepted into university to study Business Management, something I have been excited about since studying the subject at A level. I finished school with: A* A B B D which I am so proud of myself for. My family and friends were all so happy for me, and there is no better feeling than knowing you have done yourself, and everyone that is important to you, proud.

Moving day came and went in a struggle of tears and excitement. My Nana cried when I said goodbye to her, which made me cry so much- but she's sent me off with a tonne of food (even though I'm fully catered!). I'll admit- it was difficult at first, very difficult, because I missed home so much and felt very lonely even though I had made some amazing new friends. I think with something so big as moving to university it takes a while to adjust, and I was grateful for the welcome week as we weren't thrown straight into lectures. I have been here for three weeks now and it feels like I have known my flatmates for ever. I'm so lucky in that they are all really nice people and we get on so well together. My boyfriend came to stay last weekend and we have decided that he will come to stay every fortnight as 'we can't bear to be apart' (sob sob tragic). Lectures have started and I'm happy with my course, and pleased to say that I'm staying on top of the work (so far). My room could be in a better location but I have made it my own and everyone always comments on how homely it is. I think that it's really important to have a homely room when you go to uni, purely to help with the homesickness.

This brings me on to my next point, which is my new series that I am planning for my blog! I'm going to do a University Series which will include posts on a number of important topics related to university life. I chose to do this now as I know people will be starting to apply to university for the next academic year, so yeah woo look out for that!

Sorry for the long post!

Grace xoxo

My Fave Shoes

Whilst sorting through my wardrobe, I thought I would share a few of my all time favourite pairs of shoes. After taking the pictures I realised that there is a bit of a monochrome theme haha, and that most of them are from New Look. What can I say? I just love New Look shoes!

 

These are my favourite shoes in general, not just for spring/summer- enjoy :)

 

 

Office (Bramble Chelsea)- £68

 

 

I wear these more in the winter and autumn, but I have also worn them in spring with dresses and tights. I think they look good with jeans for a street style vibe, but they also toughen up skirts when worn with black tights. I got these for Christmas from my Nana, and haven't really taken them off since- thank you Nana!!

 

 

New Look- £25*

 

Sticking with boots, I couldn't resist including these! These are my go-to-going-out-shoes when I know I will be on my feet. They are so comfy because of the thick heel, and they also give me plenty of height. I prefer to wear these with jeans or leggings when I'm out because of how chunky they are, but I have worn them with a dress before.

 

 

New Look- £20*

 

 

More boots!- ish. I love love love these shoes!! They were one of my first pairs of heels that I got when I was about 15. There is a small zip at the very back of the shoe to help get them on, and the top of the shoe has cut out detail which you might be able to see in the picture. These are so easy to walk in and I can wear them out for long periods of time before they start to hurt. I really get on well with the closed over style as I have very narrow feet and find it hard to keep heels on. However a closed over shoe or one with a strap is much more practical for me. I would literally wear these shoes with anything, they look good with jeans and they're feminine enough to wear with skirts and dresses.

 

 

Primark- £10 (!!!)*

 

Time to completely contradict what I just said- these are not closed over and don't have any straps, but somehow they just cling to my feet! These shoes are so so high, but are so comfy and stable that I can literally run in them. I wear these out all the time too and they go with just about everything. I love the way these make my legs look, and at £10 they are an absolute steal!

 

 

New Look- £18*

 

I bought these last summer for my holiday but never really got a chance to wear them, as I didn't realise how hilly Madeira was! However with the warmer weather on the way (please God, please) I have a feeling I will be getting more wear out of these bad boys. I love minimal heels, I just think they're so classy and elegant and grown up haha!

 

 

 

New Look- £9.99*

 

I'll do all the black shoes in one go. I love these babies!!! I was umming and aahing over getting a pair of jellies for the longest time, but finally caved in. At under a tenner I couldn't say no, and jellies were a part of my childhood- being a nineties kid. They took a bit of breaking in, but I wear them all the time. I love their casual look with a pair of jeans, or skorts.

 

 

Schuh (Oxford)- £45

 

I WANTED THESE FOR SO LONG!!! They're so comfortable and just so wearable, I literally wear them all the time with everything. Literally everything. With jeans for a casual outfit, and for dressing down dresses. In love with these, forever!!!

 

 

Birkenstocks- £40

 

I'm aware that there are Marmite shoes, some people love the 'Jesus sandals' and some people hate them. Personally I love them, they are the comfiest thing and just perfect for holidays. The reason I bought them was for my Holiday to Madeira, on which I knew I would be walking a lot, and they were just perfect. Now I wear them with jeans and dresses for a casual look.

 

 

H&M- I have no idea of the price of these

 

These used to really pinch my feet but after wearing them in they're fine. They are a snake print slip-on with a peep toe, and the front pieces cross over to give a nice effect. I wear these with a fairly plain outfit to give it some print and a bit of interest.

 

 

New Look- £18.99*

 

These are my newest shoe purchase and I adore them! They're so simple and classic and perfect for summer (when we get some better weather). I like the gladiator style for summer sandals and go back to it every year. I think white goes with everything and is on trend for summer, and the gold buckles and studs on the straps just add a bit of interest. These are so comfy and I wear them a lot during the day for basically any occasion.

 

 

New Look- £20*

 

These are definitely for a warm day as there is not much covering your feet on these sandals! There is an adjustable strap around the back of the foot to keep the shoe in place, and a strap over the top of your foot. Two strands then come off of this and meet at a toe post. The strands on the top of the foot are made up of small chains, strings of beads and flowers, and the main fabric of the shoe. Sometimes you have to alter the way the strands sit as they can rub if the beads are laying directly on the skin. Having said this, once they are untwisted the shoes are very comfortable. I love to wear these in the evening as they add a bit of glamour to an outfit.

 

 

And that's it! I hope you liked this little collection of my all time favourite shoes.

 

 

 

 I have included below, the links to any shoes that are still on sale, however please do bear in mind that I have had some of these shoes for a long period of time and they may no longer be on sale.

*Also, the prices that I have included are estimates/ what I remember paying. If they are still on sale they may no longer be sold at this price.

Prices listed without a * mean that I have researched the price that the shoe is currently on sale for (so it is the correct price)  and the link to these shoes are listed below.

 

http://www.office.co.uk/view/product/office_catalog/2,10/1387900078

http://www.newlook.com/shop/shoe-gallery/view-all-shoes/black-double-ankle-strap-heels-_295506601 (alternative)

http://www.schuh.co.uk/womens-white-converse-all-star-oxford-white/1902721070/

http://www.schuh.co.uk/womens-white-birkenstock-madrid/1700481060/

 

 

 





Summer Update #1 - Confidence!

Hola!

You all thought I'd forgotten about this, didn't you?

I thought I'd start creating summer updates to let everyone know what's going on in my life- not that I feel like anyone returns to my page just to see what I'm up to- just that someone in the world might be interested!..?

The long absence can be explained in the form of exams and the end of school, which is always a stressful time. I think the exams went well and I'm fairly confident about the results in August! Who am I kidding? Maths was awful!! That is one week of the summer holidays that truly puts a downer on things- Results Day. Yes I might get a good mark in 3 out of 4 of my subjects, but it's always the one bad grade that I can't seem to see past or get out of my head. It's always the bad grade that I focus on and then never manage to celebrate the achievements I have made. This year my goal is to just be happy with my grades, focus on the subjects I did well in, and not despair too much about maths because I know I'm not all that good at it!

Another confidence- booster is, wait for it..Grace has won an award!!!
Okay I hate to brag but I'm proud of this one, and it's not like I win anything very often. I was nominated for a 'Community and Enterprise' award at school, for (what I imagine) my business studies work and my involvement with a  local primary school. Myself and two guests (mum and dad) were invited to an awards evening at the school- I bought a new top and mum bought a new dress. The dress code was black tie/ formal attire and once we arrived at the school dad realised he wasn't wearing a tie and told us he was going home as there was half an hour 'mingling' before the ceremony started. He needn't have worried- the man in front of us in the queue to get in was dressed in full tracksuit regalia. Anyway, upon arrival you were given a certificate for being nominated and had your photo taken. You then walked down the red carpet into the canteen where drinks and snacks were offered. Dad soon joined us and we talked to my friend, who I found was nominated for the same award as I was (tense moment!!). The doors to the hall opened and we were to find our seats at a table. The lights were dimmed, the stage set up and it really looked lovely. There were about fifteen tables all decorated with ribbon, a potted centrepiece and strawberries, grapes and sparkling water. It was later announced that my friend and I were part of a group nomination- so no awkward competition! The look on my mum's face when my name was called out was priceless, and I couldn't quite believe I had done it myself. More pictures were taken on stage and shaking of hands followed. I had actually worn heels for the evening as I had been so convinced I wouldn't have won anything and wouldn't have to walk up to the stage!

In this same week the prefect results were announced for the next academic year. I had applied to be the Business Studies prefect as it is my favourite subject and one I wish to pursue at university. Although I didn't get the role I am determined to be a part of the Business Studies department next year and so want to apply for a 'representative' role. I really want to run a business club for children lower down the school as I feel awareness of the subject could be broadened. This is because business studies is only offered as a GCSE and is not in the curriculum for students in their first and second year. This is also the reason why I didn't take business as a GCSE- as I had no idea what the subject was about. My belief is that promoting the subject through running a club for younger students will encourage more students to take business studies. This is what I'm focussing on this summer- turning negative thoughts on their head and creating something positive out of it! I realise I need to boost my self esteem so what better way to start than to help others and recognise my own achievements?



Review: Seventeen Doll'd Up Mascara

 

First post worked- YES!

      Okay so here's the second. I'm doing a review of a mascara that I picked up in Boots for £6.29 after reading about it in a recent Cosmopolitan article. The mascara is Doll'd Up by Seventeen and I purchased it in black.

The article in the magazine said that the mascara was in the top three for the 'curling' category. This is the feature advertised on the mascara claiming to have 'up to 24 hr curl'.

First Impressions

The packaging looks feminine and does suggest the mascara would provide a good curl to the lashes. The brush is curved and has lots of short plastic bristles that don't move.

 

 

Application

 

Personally I find this sort of brush to be effective as I have short lashes and not many of them! The fixed bristles grab each of my lashes and pull them, coating them in mascara. For me, bigger brushes tend to leave formula on my eyelid as my lashes are so short. This means to get a volumised look with a bigger brush requires an application with a smaller brush first to elongate my lashes away from my eyelid. I don't mind doing this but it is nice to have a mascara that is quick and easy to use.

I can see why Doll'd Up is advertised as a curling mascara as I did notice a nice curl in my lashes (which aren't very curly either, they just sort of stick out), however the most obvious thing that I noticed was the length and definition this mascara gave me. As I said before, my lashes aren't very long so it was nice to have a mascara that made them look longer. This mascara also separated each lash which gave an illusion of fuller lashes, good for me as I have such a small amount.

The formula is a good consistency as it isn't runny, but didn't clump my lashes together either. It doesn't collect round the neck of the bottle and dry up either which is also a plus. It does however, smell of paint but I can't decide if this is a good thing or not (maybe it means it's more pigmented- I don't know) but it does give a good colour and it doesn't smell strong enough for someone to comment on how paint-y your lashes smell.

 

 

Overall

 

For me this mascara is a god-send. It enables me to pretend that I have luscious lashes (try saying that quickly) without looking too false. I think this would provide a lovely curl to someone who is already blessed with longer lashes, and is perfect for the bottom lashes as well. I can't really find a major fault with this product- as my Granddad would say: the only thing wrong with it is that there is only half left! I started my review series with a mascara as they are a guilty pleasure of mine, this one being number 15 in my current collection. Most of the other mascaras that I have are by Maybelline, but there are some others from Collection and Avon that I could do reviews on too- just let me know  x

 

 

 

 If my eye looks weird it's because I'm wearing contacts, sorry about the poor lighting but that's English daylight for ya!

 

 

Cosmo Article:

http://www.cosmopolitan.co.uk/beauty-hair/news/beauty-news/100-mascaras-tested-in-cosmopolitan-magazine?click=main_sr 

 

 

Hello!

         Hello everyone! I am a student from England who loves everything to do with fashion, make up and interior design. That being said, I am not a huge technology genius so this will probably take some getting used to. I have created a blog before but didn't know how to use it and only made one post similar to this one. You may stumble across that blog at some point but at least it provides a good laugh.
          On this blog I plan to review products, share my likes and dislikes, ideas for interior design ( I am moving into a new room!!), outfits of the day, and shopping hauls. So if you're into any of that stuff, keep reading!

         Obviously, more blog posts will come with practice, so any tips would be appreciated :) I don't even know if I'll get this post to upload yet- so wish me luck! xx