Luscious Lips

March is here, and although we should be cracking out the pastel shades and floral prints, instead we have cracked lips because of this cold snap (some places in the UK have snow!)

So I have put together a little collection of lippies to help you re-moisturise and get your perfect pout back, ready for Spring.

We get dry lips because they don’t have any oil glands, unlike the rest of our skin. To tackle this, try a gentle lip balm to cool and moisturise;  my handbag essential is my Nivea Pearly Shine £2 lip balm. It lasts for hours and has a pearlescent sheen to it that can double as a lip colour, plus looks great with nude-style make up.

If you want a high pigmented, plump lip but you’re not a fan of the Kylie Jenner pout, courtesy of intricate lip liner and lashings of lipstick (plus a teensy bit of filler), then why not try Urban Decay products? Urban Decay’s Lip Junkie Gloss £13 uses Maxi-Lip, a bonus ingredient that claims to plump lips by up to 40% when used for a month that leaves lips creamy rather than sticky.

An alternative to precision lipwear that keeps a buttery-smooth finish is the wine-stained look. Use a dark pink/plum coloured lippy, such as Topshop’s Matte Lip Bullet in Get Me Bodied £8 and apply lightly before dabbing gently with your middle finger, until it looks slightly smudged and worn. For longer wear, easier application, and additional moisture apply a slick of lip balm before the lipstick.

If you suffer from the blighters that are coldsores (that come on as a result of being stressed, a change in the weather or just because they feel like you’ve not had one in a while, particularly hours before a party) then try Zovirax £4.85. The Acyclovir element will minimise the coldsore, targeting the virus and reducing the size and redness, just apply ever 3-4 hours. Alternatively is Blistex £2.69, which deals with coldsores but also relieves dry, chapped lips to leave them soft and smooth.

Let me know your favourite lip-plumping products or techniques for a chance to win a new lipstick in your choice of colour!

Maurice's Mantra

Voted 9th in Vogue.com's Most Stylish Men in Fashion, Maurice Mullen (Head of Fashion and Luxury Goods at the London Evening Standard) has been at the forefront of fashion publishing for almost thirty years.

Marking the beginning of Fall 2016 men's season, the Vogue.com editors weighed in on the well-dressed men they are eager to see, with Sarah Mower, Vogue.com Chief Critic, stating:

“To me, it’s Maurice Mullen of the London Evening Standard, who I always look forward to seeing at the London shows. I have never been able to comprehend the number of immaculate Savile Row suits he must have, nor his ability to deploy the loudest patterns and colors and the killer clashing pocket handkerchief—and plaid trousers on occasion!—while being the most gentlemanly and wickedly insightful neighbor to sit next to at a show.” 

I recently attended a lunch with him, where we were discussing the future and how we see ourselves making an impact within the media industry, specifically within the fashion and luxury goods sector. He shared with me a mantra that he often used to emanate ambitions and succeed when communicating that really boosted my confidence:

“In life, people can be radiators or drains”

He concluded that radiators give warmth and naturally draw people to them, contributing optimistically to others and enhancing their life in some way; they provide happiness and share joy with others whilst radiating positivity.

Drains are the opposite; they withdraw energy from those around them, emotionally exhausting them and only focus on their own issues. This is dispiriting to others, and means that they often take more from the relationship than they give.

Whilst I think this gives an extreme view of the world, it is definitely something to contemplate, both in a personal and professional capacity. It made me wonder if in life, I was being a resilient radiator, or a drag-you-down drain.

Thankfully, Maurice said he thought I was a radiator, with an outgoing personality and ambition to drive forwards but this isn’t necessarily true all the time. Everyone gets down days and it is okay to have them, and to seek advice or the support of others. Only when you start valuing your problems above everyone else’s can this lead down a slippery slope… or into a drain as it were!

Next week, Maurice is off to Paris Fashion Week to teach a class of 22 American students from Washington DC visiting PFW with their tutor for the first time - wish him luck/congratulate him using the below Twitter links!

Inspired by: Maurice Mullen and Vogue.com
@standardfashion  @ESMagOfficial #eveningstandardfashion

Yorkshire Beauty

Rolling hills as far as the eye can see, forested valleys, stretching moors and silvery vapours drifting over the landscape in the early morning sun; welcome to Yorkshire.

At this time of year, although bitingly cold, the Yorkshire moors are breathtakingly beautiful, showcasing the glory of nature and sheer magnificence akin to Peter Jackson’s portrayal of New Zealand in his Lord of the Rings productions.

Having visited for a funeral, spirits were duly low, but when I encountered the stunning landscapes, I could not help but feel a sort of living presence, pulsing in every aspect of the surroundings, breathing life and energy through me. The crisp air and dewy flowers were intoxicating, as was the river with its thousands of intricate reflections that you could stare into endlessly.

Bolton Abbey was by far the most captivating place I visited. In the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, the ruins of a 12^th century monastery exist in acres of woodland that are truly staggering and simply must be experienced. We walked for hours through the woods (muddy wellies accompanying) and skipped stones along the mirrored surface, topped off with a bowl (I mean it, it was a bowl) of hot chocolate plus whipped cream plus marshmallows plus sprinkles, and thankfully I didn’t have a coronary! If walking isn’t your thing (it wasn’t mine until I met my boyfriend’s mum!) then there are still places you can visit. There are about 9462 pubs in a 3-mile radius, all of which consist of roaring log fires, engulfing leather armchairs, a monstrously-sized roast dinner and as standard, an adorable pub dog. For afternoon tea, you simply must visit Betty’s Tea Rooms in Harrogate; nearly a century old, it boasts the most delectable cream cakes and extensive collection of tea and coffee (with over 300 breads, cakes and chocolates!). If you want to explore the town, there are hundreds of quaint little shops selling petite homeware bits that are perfect for gift-giving, or try the market in Skipton with thousands of books for sale as well as puzzles, fruit, vegetables and jewellery. There is a great buzz about Harrogate, and when we went we were lucky enough to catch the Pancake Day celebrations, with local radio stations and pancake-tossing competitions aplenty.

Don’t forget all the “Ye Olde Sweetshops” either – with pineapple cubes, rhubarb and custards, bonbons, humbugs, salted liquorice, jelly buttons (how much time have you got?) they have all the old sweets as well as some new!

Have A Monochrome Moment

With the blossom buds just beginning to bloom, it is time to reap the last of the AW15/16 monochrome trend before SS16 comes in with all its nets, mesh, lightweight denim and lingerie in tow.

I love this combination, as it is simple yet sophisticated, and can easily be transformed from office to evening – just add some winged eyeliner, lashings of mascara and a rich lippy (I advise going for one from this list). Don't forget to dry shampoo your hair for extra volume and to deal with any residual grease (hey, we know you were too busy watching Netflix to wash your hair last night) and voila!

The best thing about this outfit is the price (it totals under £50!) so not only is it sassy and curve-hugging, but it is also affordable for anyone who doesn't have the cash to splash on designers.

Skirt - Primark £6
Turtle-neck top - H&M £5.99
Patent leather boots - H&M £23.99
Layered necklace - Forever 21 £6
Ear cuffs (1 x pearl, 1 x diamante) - New Look £1.99 
Earrings - Aldo £4.99 (Sale)

Tell me what you think of this outfit and don't forget to Tweet/Instagram/FB your monochrome outfit creations - make sure to tag me!

 

Assorted studs - wishbone/cubes/asymmetrical karma set

Primark - £0.50 (Sale)

February Lipsticks

At this time of year when it is bitterly cold and wintry, we layer up to the max, leaving very little on show from under our chunky knits and parkas. To combat this limited fashion (apart from the various faux fur headbands and leather gloves that I collect in hoards), I like to whip out the statement lipsticks to revitalise my style and stand out from the crowd. Using earthy, rich palettes is ideal and with hues of dark berries, deep merlot and vampy violets, you will be on trend for February 2016. 

Revlon

Chanel

Bourjois

Revlon: Colorburst Lacquer Balm Stain in Whimsical £7.99

Chanel: Rouge Allure collection in no. 116 Envoûtante £26

Bourjois: Rouge Edition Velvet lipstick in Personne Ne Rouge 1 £8.99

Tanya Burr

Collection

L'Oreal Paris

Tanya Burr: Berry Picking Lip Gloss £5.99

Collection: Lasting Colour Lipstick in no. 14 Blackberry Fool £2.99

L'Oreal Paris: Infallible Gloss in no. 202 Gloss me Gorgeous DAZZLE £6.99

Maybelline

Barry M

MUA

Maybelline: Color Sensational Lip Stain in no. 350 Blushing £3.99

Barry M: Gelly Lip Crayon in Sirius 4 £4.99

Make Up Academy (MUA): Matte Lipstick in Scarlett Siren £1

8 Tips For Growing Your Hair

Like many of us, I thought I would be brave and go for the chop, opting to cut off my 17 inches of hair and have a long bob. Although I did love it, come the third week I was pining over my lost locks, considering anything from Sellotape to a stretch-out strap to make it grow. Unfortunately the truth that no hair-grower wants to hear is that once it is off, it will take its sweet time to grow back. However, there is a light at the end of the wind tunnel hairdryer attachment; there are several things you can do to speed up the growth process, all of which are relatively cheap and easy:

1.  Never use a hairband to tie a ponytail or bun; try using a scrunchie; I’ve found that velvet ones work best. The tautness of a regular hairband pulls on your hair and can rip hair from the follicle. A scrunchie is much softer and less aggressive on your scalp, meaning your hair can be up without too much tension put on it. Claire's Accessories do some really sweet ones that you can wear both in the house and as part of an outfit.

All Claire's Accessories at £2.45

2. When drying your hair, avoid using towels as sometimes the coarseness in the fabric can be harsh on thin hair. Instead, try an old t-shirt (I find my Dad’s ones are perfect, as they are extra soft from years of washing) as it is much gentler on the scalp and gives the follicles a rest.

3.  If money is a bit tight but you want to buy a hair treatment, try using things from around the home. One product that works a treat is olive oil. Heat it in the microwave in a microwave-safe measuring jug (or just a mug will do if you can’t find one) for 2-3 minutes. Pour this over the head and leave for 5 minutes to work. Wash it out with lots of shampoo and see your new shiny, healthy locks. Please note, any longer than 5 minutes left on will not make a difference. Oh, and BE CAREFUL as the oil will be hot!

4. Try one hair-wash a week without using shampoo, just use conditioner. The reason for this is that shampoo is effectively a soap, and certain soaps can remove moisture from the hair. This can cause breakages and split ends which means a lack of hydration and ultimately, dry, frizzy hair in bad condition.

5. It sounds obvious but I cannot stress the importance of using a heat protection spray. I like Lee Stafford’s Poker Straight Flat Iron Protection Mist (£6.49) as it works brilliantly and the smell is divine but again, a cheaper option is Superdrug’s Style Expertise Heat Spray at £2.99. Use it every time you blow-dry, rough dry, straighten, curl or even roller your locks to avoid unnecessary stress and damage.

    6. When handling wet hair, it can be a pain to get to a reasonably manageable state, especially if you have thick, curly or knotty hair. Use a children’s detangling spray (L’Oreal are notorious this product but a home-brand also can work well) and spray well before combing. You can also get adult detangling sprays, such as Herbal Essences Totally Twisted Curl Silkening Detangler (£6.50) but I find children’s ones are more equipped to combat the tantrums that ensue with hair brushing. This helps prevent any (painful) tugging and maximises hydration in the hair that will give a smooth and shiny finish for any hair type.

    7. Following the use of the spray, avoid the temptation to use a hairbrush to get your wet hair ready for blow-drying. Using a hairbrush can yank the hair from the root and take weeks, even months to grow back again. Substitute this with a wide-toothed comb (I think Wilko do one for about 80p) and slowly comb from root to tip in sections. If you have particular difficult or curly unmanageable hair, comb from about 3 inches from the ends of your hair downwards. Repeat this all the way to the section of hair until you get to the roots and can brush downwards in one smooth motion.

8. In the shower, I have a real habit (especially if I am in a hurry) of rushing my hair wash and giving no time or attention to it. Instead, give yourself a lengthy scalp massage, focusing on the roots, the crown and behind your ears when lathering. This stimulates blood circulation which brings more nutrients to your hair roots. Plus, who doesn’t love a cheeky massage?!

Penny Pinching Fashion

It’s the end of January and many of us are clawing on to our last pennies until payday (everyone hates the six week pay gap between Christmas and end of January!)

With all the sales on, it is difficult not to get drawn in (for example, Zara has a cracking sale on at the moment with their trousers/skirts selling for £9, and their blouses/shirt dresses going for just a fiver).

So instead of buying more clothes, as there is physically no room left anywhere in my flat for them, I decided to root through my drawers and see what I could find. I’m talking right to the bottom, where the bandage skirts and peplum tops are!

What I came up with had a geek chic inspiration, as it was an outfit for work but I wanted it to have a cheeky edge and be a bit playful.

I used a bit of layering with the kitted statement jumper (Next) and chiffon blouse (Primark) underneath – although it is winter, it has been particularly mild this year so too many layers would have been sweltering, especially on my power-walk into work. No, I am not a morning exerciser, I have severe issues with timekeeping… 
The skater skirt (about £6, Amazon) was a firm favourite from when I was about 18; I love the burgundy wine colour plus it is RATHER short, so being A-line skater style makes it appear more acceptable for the office.

The accessories are an accumulation of fashion internships and sales over the years. The bangles were from Fabulous magazine's fashion cupboard, as were the oversized geek glasses (which look so adorable but as I have never worn glasses they give me chronic headaches but totally worth it!) The brown leather watch with oversized gold face and Roman numerals was from Red Herring from a Debenhams Blue X Sale about 4 years ago. The bone-style Aztec necklace was from Dorothy Perkins from 2012/13 when the whole Aztec print and statement jewellery started doing the rounds – still a gorgeous piece and always gets compliments for its versatility and intricate design.

The black boots were an eBay purchase, drawn to my attention by Daisy Street. I love the panelling on them and the chunky heel with the gold buckles gives them a biker chick feel, but with the ability to still look feminine. Plus they are super comfy, and with a heel of 4 inches, you can get away with them on a night out – win win! 
If you let your hypothalamus dictate your temperature rather than your insatiable need to look good (unlike me), then try a pair of patterned tights instead of going bare-legged. Primark have a fantastic selection for £2.50 per pair. I recently picked up a gorgeous pair of 10 denier with dark love heart prints all the way up the legs - super cute and an absolute bargain.