April It List

First and foremost, I’d like to apologise for being a bit well… slack. You see, I’d love to be able to blog all day everyday, but this damn frustrating concept called ‘doing your GCSEs’ exists. I’m trying to balance out blog-life, social-life and work-life all on top of revision and it’s proving a little tricky… Me time? What’s that? So, take this as a pre-warning; over the next few months you’ll be hearing a little less than usual from me. No worries, quantity may reduce but no way will quality be slipping!

This post, as many of you accustomed readers will know, is all about my favourite things for the upcoming month – the things you NEED to go and buy/do/wear. April’s, in tune with the current weather, is a lighter, brighter theme – products that will work even as it gets warmer. Enjoy!

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Rosie HW for Autograph Creme Blush in Camisole Blush

To be honest, ‘celebrity’ lines aren’t usually high in quality when it comes to cosmetics – and I don’t particularly rate the Autograph make-up range anyway, so it was a fabulous surprise when this product actually turned out to be as good as high-end products like MAC Cremeblend Blush (£18.50). The formula is better than anything I’ve tried previously – Bourjois, MAC, Revlon. They’re all so ‘unblendable’ compared to this! This blush is a long-lasting, super easy to apply option, perfect for those who aren’t so confident as well as those who are. It comes in a range of 4 colours – Camisole Blush is a perfect coral-toned blush for fair skin – which all blend out to a silky, powder-like finish. I highly recommend trying this and I’ve heard that the lipsticks in this collection are equally as wonderful!

Decorative Hoops

Hoops? Meh… They’ve been around for ages. But dainty little hoops with decorations make the whole concept a lot more exciting! Perfect for the boho vibe of the warmer weather, just like the earrings below – a high-street option from Topshop. So, let your jewellery take centre stage this spring and get experimenting!

Hey Honey Good Morning Facial Serum

This came in my most recent Glossybox, as it’s supposed to be great for all skin types – even sensitive. Weirdly enough, one of my close friends, Grace, had recently been raving about the benefits of honey for the complexion and I was eager to give it a try. There’s no denying, this serum feels absolutely gorgeous on the skin. Also, using it along with my Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish (staring from £6) made a noticeable difference to the brightness of my complexion – people even commented that I looked healthier! For me, although it isn’t a miracle worker for my spots, I can see it being a favourite amongst many people without the issue of teenage skin. It’s nourishing, but non-oily properties make it a great option for a lighter, summer serum.

Beyonce Ivy Park collection for Topshop

I don’t think I’ve ever been so excited about a clothing line, honestly – I mean it’s QUEEN B who wouldn’t be?! Beyonce has announced that her sportswear collection, ‘Ivy Park’, for Topshop will be released on the 14th of April. This 200 piece collection ranges from around £20 to £150; there’s something for every budget. In addition, she’s created leggings for every body shape and activity, low-rise, mid-rise and high-rise – HOW BLOODY AMAZING! Get ready for some serious shopping, girls, this is one thing you won’t want to miss.

Open-toe Boots

Although they may come across as slightly impractical (surely if you need boots on, you can’t afford to have your toes out?), I think that open-toe boots will be the item that get’s you through the winter-summer transition that we have here in the UK. I picked up these suede, chunky-heeled beauties from M&S for just £35, as I can wear them with pretty much anything – jeans, dresses, shorts. If you’re liking the sound of it, take a look at the following: Hustle Open Toe Boots (£85), Call It Spring Tan Boots (£40), Miss Kurt Geiger Saana Boots (£65).

Paul Green Trainers

I recently came across this footwear brand in House of Fraser, whilst I was supposed to be looking for prom shoes but instead was drooling over super-cool trainers. I first became a little obsessed with the idea of dressed-up trainers when myself and my mum took a trip to London Fashion Weekend. Many designer brands have always had jazzed-up trainers in their collections, but the high-street hasn’t caught on until very recently. Hi-tops, low-tops all in muted pinks and blues with the occasional pop of colour… if you’re a fan of Superga or the new Reebok ‘Spirit’ collection, I can guarantee you’ll fall in love with Paul Green.

by Terry Sheer Expert

Alright, I’ve already raved about this in my Natural Beauty tutorial, but seriously, I can’t exclude it from the It List. Similar to a BB Cream, in the fact that it’s much less heavy than your average foundation. But there is absolutely no compromise on coverage or lasting-power (which, along with shade, was a bit of a problem with bareMinerals Complexion Rescue). Even if you prefer a heavier foundation for nights out or winter, this is totally the one to get you through the summer months. Believe me, I sat in Space NK and pretty much tried every foundation in there on my face; Nars, Hourglass, Laura Mercier, Shiseido, you name it, I tried it. But, this was a definite winner.

Macaroons

I’ve always loved macaroons, no matter how crazy expensive they can be to buy – I think they’re an ideal summer treat, as they’re not too stodgy or large. One of my best friends, Evie, frequently bakes (and will probably win GBBO one day) and made some gorgeous macaroons as cake decorations. And, well, I’ve fallen in love all over again. If you live in Norwich like me and love macaroons, I suggest you try Macaroons & More or Harriet’s Tea Room.

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 I hope you enjoyed this post and that I’ve given you a little April inspiration! What are you loving this month? Let me know below!

Emilia x

 

February It List

Ahh, February, that delightful month where absolutely nothing ever seems to happen. Except from rain and the occasional spot of sleet, that is. Everyone’s tired from the few weeks back at work or school, everyones fed up of following their New Years resolutions,  and there’s generally not much happiness brewing around. Do not fear, however, because I am about to tell you all the things that you should be doing this month (instead of miserably staring out of the window). February wil no longer be the month of nothingness. Mark my words.

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Too Faced Peanut Butter & Jelly Eyeshadow Palette

What could possibly be more exciting that a new Too Faced palette release?! The queens of eyeshadows have treated us to an exciting mix of colour pop and neutrals all in one place and we couldn’t be more grateful. This little beauty is due to be welcomed into the world on the 28th of February in the UK and luckily enough, I’ll be in London all ready to get a glance. Chocolate Bar? Or even Choco-Bonbons? Pfft.. That’s so last year – you’re going to want to get your hands on the latest edition ladies, trust me.

 

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Accentuating the waist

Every little detail in fashion at the minute seems to be heading towards this; using old-style tricks to create the illusion of a thinner waist. Move over ‘over-sized’, no more hiding away – we’re about to show it all off! Wrap coats, high-waisted culottes, belted pinafores, midi-skirts – they’re all in on it. It’s time to create some curves, girls, and below are some suggestions as to how to get started…

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The New Pancake

As everyone should be well aware of (if you’re not you’re slightly crazy), next Tuesday is the beloved Pancake Day. I.e. it is law that you eat pancakes all day. (Okay, not quite.) Anyway, this year it’s all about changing it up; try something new, the whole lemon and sugar thing is a getting a little ancient. Chocolate orange, Pear and Maple Syrup, arrot Cake, the list goes on. Find all the best and most invent recipes for this year in the following links!

Red Velvet, Carrot Cake, Lemon and Blueberry, Ginger Bread, Birthday, Peanut Butter Cup, Pear & Whiskey Maple Syrup.

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Mini-bags

This season some accessories seem to be growing, whilst others seem to be shrinking; it’s an odd notion. Last month I spoke about big earrings, they’re totally coming back in. Don’t be afraid to let your ears take centre stage! But, on the other hand, bags are one of the ‘shrinkers’. Mini-backpacks, mini-satchels, mini-duffels, they’re everywhere! Long gone are the days of the Mary-Poppins-style shopper, from now on there’s only space for your phone, a cardholder and, of course, a lippy. Unsure on how you could channel this trend? Just take a peek at the ideas below..

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Love Me Beauty boxes

Upon receiving this month’s Elle magazine, as I opened the pages, as always, a multitude of leaflets fell out. Usually they’re the same sort of promotional thing, as Elle tend to keep the same partners, but this month, a new slip of card fell out! This was advertising yet another ‘beauty box’ brand on the market called ‘Love Me Beauty’ and, what’s better, you can get your first month for just £1 with Elle! £45 worth of beauty products for £1, you’d be insane not to buy one. Of course I’ve already gone ahead and ordered one, woopsy… Expect a review coming soon!

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Oxford Circus Topshop Store

Despite having been to London countless times in recent years, for some reason, I’d managed to never ever set foot in the flagship Topshop store! It’s almost an offence. So, this month, for the first time ever, I paid this shop a visit (a 2-hour long visit, as it happens), when I went to London with three close friends. And, oh my, it was amazing. A nail bar, a hair salon, a smoothie bar, a fro-yo bar, Brandy Melville and many beauty brands from abroad too – all in one store! It is truly shopping heaven – if you haven’t been you should put it straight on your to-do list for 2016.

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Cocoon Coats

Here in the UK, it usually isn’t worth ditching our coats until at least mid-April, so with the new season stuff in store, there’s a real urge to invest in another new piece ‘just for spring’. If your shopping habits are along the same lines as mine, then you’ve probably already bought yet another coat, but if you’re still deliberating, listen up! The cocoon coat, as it’s so aptly named, will literally cocoon your body, wrapping you up and giving the oversized look that we’re still addicted to in outerwear styles. What’s more? There’s loads of lovely versions of these left over from the Christmas sales! Snatch them up whilst you can.

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Spring Cleaning

Alright, maybe it isn’t the most thrilling thing to do, but on one of the classically drizzly days, I promise you this is one of the best things you can do – you’ll be happy with the results. Whether this means clearing out your wardrobe, make-up collection, skincare, rearranging your bedroom or just giving your make-up brushes a good old clean, it’s refreshing to do something like this once in a while. Now that you’ve cleared out, you could do a car boot, sell on eBay or Depop or even take your stuff to the local charity shop. After all, getting rid of old things can only mean one thing, right? More space for new things!

January It List

As many of you well-accustomed Irregular Collection followers will know, right at the beginning of each month, I publish a so-called ‘It List’ of things that I think are going to be big this month or am currently loving. Whether it’s inspired by magazine articles, blog posts, recommendation or my own experience, the It List is a collection of the month’s very best. Take a look below to see the things that made it onto list…

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• The Zara Sale

Each January, I forcefully take myself to shop the sales. Don’t get me wrong, I love a bargain, but battling your way through crowds and searching through the unkempt rails upon rails of clothes that are probably all neon or in size 20 just isn’t for me. Typically, I’d much rather be sat with my laptop on my lap, at home, doing it all online. But, after Christmas, online sales get a bit crazy too and lot’s of stock isn’t listed on line, so you kind of have to face the chaos of physical sales shopping. Topshop, Fatface, Jack Wills, H&M, French Connection… The list goes on, yet year upon year, I only ever seem to be able to find nice clothes with decent price-cuts in Zara! Their sale is organised, large, not mono-seasonal and a range of sizes are available. Here’s me wearing some of the item’s I picked up this year (in some amazingly dramatic photos by Evie Oliver)…

• Nails Inc nail polishes

I kind of forgot how much of a good formula these polishes are until I received one in this month’s Glossybox. I normally only buy cheap nail polishes because I can’t wear them very much due to school, so getting a full-size high-end one to try was such a treat! It’s a pinky-nude tone called Uptown which is available in Gel Polish on their site, but the polish alone only comes as part of sets like the 2015 AW Limited Edition Set. Just the right tone for my fair skin and two coats that glide on like water is all you will need!

• Keira Knightley

Probably the first woman-crush of my life; I swear Keira Knightley can rock any look. Her long boyish-figure and 90’s/00’s style (think Love Actually Keira) are so in at the moment. Dungarees, culottes, pinafore dresses… You name it, she can make it look amazing. Also, she will forever be my hairstyle/makeup idol.

• Blue

In tune with the weather (and probably the colour of your fingers after being outside for 20 minutes), blue is the colour of pre-spring. Be it soft or bold in colour, for wear on the feet or face, say yes to blue. If you’re a little stuck for ideas as to how to channel this trend, take a look at my suggestions below:

• The Great Gatsby

Due to the fact that I have never watched a film with Leonardo Di Caprio in it that hasn’t been great, myself and my boyfriend decided to give The Great Gatsby a try… Although it’s a pretty long movie, I absolutely loved it! A story of the glamour in 1920’s New York and the mysterious man Mr Jay Gatsby who hosted gigantic parties every weekend whilst pursuing the love of his life. It’s right up there on my list of favourite movies along with The Grand Budapest Hotel and I Origins.

• Soft brushed waves

Every magazine I flick through, every article I scroll through, this month, subtle, teased-out waves are all over it. All of the model’s for luxury designer brands are working it, all of the catwalk girls too – although it hasn’t been officially ‘announced’ as such, I predict that this will be big in the next few months, as a hair trend that coincides perfectly with the 90’s fashion movement. Frizz is no longer a bad thing; be proud of your lions mane! If this isn’t your natural hair-state, but you still want to trial the trend, I suggest you read this article!

• Rimmel Provocalips in Skinny Dipping (£6.99)

I went into Boots with my abundance of Christmas gift cards intending to purchase a Rimmel Apocalips Matte Lip Laquer (£6.49), as I’ve heard such good stuff about them, but lo-and-behold, they were out of stock. So, impatient little me purchased this ‘Provocalips’ product instead! It’s simply described as “lip colour” by Rimmel, but I’d say it’s pretty much a moisturising, not-so-matte liquid lipstick – and, BOY, do I love it! A very brown-toned peachy nude, similar to MAC Lipstick in Yash (£15.50), yet half the price – score.

• One Line A Day Project

I knew about this project a little while ago, due to seeing the One Line a Day book for sale in my local Waterstones. However, the idea seemed silly to begin in the middle of a year, so when Coco from Coco’s Tea Party (a well known fashion and lifestyle blogger) mentioned it in her New Year’s Resolution Suggestions post, I was reminded once more of the concept and began writing this year on the 1st of January. Like a diary for lazy people (i.e. me) which will no doubt be fun to read back on; you don’t even need the proper book, all you need is a notepad, a pen and 1 minute per day.

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What are your favourite things this January?

Emilia x