Sunday, 1 March 2015
Spring favourites
So we are nearly there, spring is finally arriving! We see the days are getting longer, the daffodils are slowly beginning to appear and the sun is shining more and more. With a new season comes new trends, and here is my list of essentials to see you through this spring!
1. Blouse- Now why a blouse? Isn't that all too simple? Well, that is precisely the point! Perfect for those slightly sunnier days paired with some shades and those colder ones with a cardy or blazer. The blouse can be worn tucked into a pair of skinny jeans even with some heels to add an element of sophistication, or simply loosely with a pair of leggings for a more causal look. Its a must have this season and is popular in styles from the crop, to the boyfriend shirt, so go on, go grab one!
2. Wellies- What else is going to get you through those April Showers? We are subject to plenty of rain in Britain and if you haven't already, invest in some! They will also be very useful once the festival season hits, we all know what Glastonbury is like... Wellies these days come in so many designs, with ankle boot type or normal knee cut offs and in so many different colours and patterns, where to begin! If you want to invest in a sturdy long lasting pair then look no further than Joules or Hunter, however if your just looking for the season then get down to your nearest shop including your local supermarket, there are so many to choose from!
3. Stripes- Stripes are everywhere, all over the catwalk and on the high street. A huge trend this spring is the stripey top, whether its a jumper style, sequinned or off the shoulder, stripes are back with force. Also becoming increasingly popular is the striped dress, which can be perfectly accompanied with a denim or leather jacket. Just take a look around your local hight street to pick up any stripe products!
4. Silk Scarf- I do like a scarf. I think they make the perfect accessory and can easily jazz up a simple outfit. Springtime fashion is all about light, colourful and layered clothing to suit those warmer and colder days in the build up to the summer months, and silk is the perfect material for this season. Whilst adding colour and design to your outfit, they add a sense of sophistication and class, a sort of Emma Watson edge if you know what I mean. Even just the one scarf will see you through this season perfectly, accessorising as you go.
5. Crew neck jumper- The crew neck is a perfect style jumper for the spring season and in particular 2015 has seen the return of this design. This style of jumper is often light and can be worn over a collared shirt to add smartness to your outfit or simply worn with a pair of ripped skinny jeans for a more edgy look. It comes in so many different patterns, the popular ones being checked, floral or striped . A great investment and a perfect addition to the wardrobe for those days when your struggling for what to wear.
1. Blouse- Now why a blouse? Isn't that all too simple? Well, that is precisely the point! Perfect for those slightly sunnier days paired with some shades and those colder ones with a cardy or blazer. The blouse can be worn tucked into a pair of skinny jeans even with some heels to add an element of sophistication, or simply loosely with a pair of leggings for a more causal look. Its a must have this season and is popular in styles from the crop, to the boyfriend shirt, so go on, go grab one!
2. Wellies- What else is going to get you through those April Showers? We are subject to plenty of rain in Britain and if you haven't already, invest in some! They will also be very useful once the festival season hits, we all know what Glastonbury is like... Wellies these days come in so many designs, with ankle boot type or normal knee cut offs and in so many different colours and patterns, where to begin! If you want to invest in a sturdy long lasting pair then look no further than Joules or Hunter, however if your just looking for the season then get down to your nearest shop including your local supermarket, there are so many to choose from!
3. Stripes- Stripes are everywhere, all over the catwalk and on the high street. A huge trend this spring is the stripey top, whether its a jumper style, sequinned or off the shoulder, stripes are back with force. Also becoming increasingly popular is the striped dress, which can be perfectly accompanied with a denim or leather jacket. Just take a look around your local hight street to pick up any stripe products!
4. Silk Scarf- I do like a scarf. I think they make the perfect accessory and can easily jazz up a simple outfit. Springtime fashion is all about light, colourful and layered clothing to suit those warmer and colder days in the build up to the summer months, and silk is the perfect material for this season. Whilst adding colour and design to your outfit, they add a sense of sophistication and class, a sort of Emma Watson edge if you know what I mean. Even just the one scarf will see you through this season perfectly, accessorising as you go.
5. Crew neck jumper- The crew neck is a perfect style jumper for the spring season and in particular 2015 has seen the return of this design. This style of jumper is often light and can be worn over a collared shirt to add smartness to your outfit or simply worn with a pair of ripped skinny jeans for a more edgy look. It comes in so many different patterns, the popular ones being checked, floral or striped . A great investment and a perfect addition to the wardrobe for those days when your struggling for what to wear.
Wednesday, 11 February 2015
The best of the Baftas
Only a quick post on Sunday night's spectacular British Academy Awards! As ever, the evening was full of glamour, happiness and equally disappointment in some cases. This is the social gathering of the year in Britain for the best stars in hollywood, although our national heartthrob David Beckham made an appearance on the red carpet aside the likes of Reese Witherspoon, Eddie Redmayne and Benedict Cumberbatch, he's just too rich, famous and damn good looking to miss out on the opportunity! His presentation of the award for 'Outstanding British Film' really did make my evening. He stole the show really.
Although another highlight of the evening was most certainly Eddie Redmayne winning the award for 'Best Actor' for 'The Theory of Everything' which I can say is a brilliant, moving and inspiring film. He was truly fantastic, so well deserved Eddie! To add to this delightful win, the man himself, Stephen Hawking was there to witness the triumph of the film based on his life which really was a great success at this years Baftas.
Stephen Fry put on a great show as usual, full of hilarity and quick wit. His introduction of Tom Cruise to present the award for 'Best Film' really did make me laugh. Talking of Cruise, he just does not age! If there is such a thing as looking fantastic at fifty, Tom Cruise is the perfect example.
And finally it was lovely to witness the display of glamorous actors on the Red Carpet, looking at the beautiful dresses and the gorgeous gents, I can't wait for the Oscars, bring it on!
Although another highlight of the evening was most certainly Eddie Redmayne winning the award for 'Best Actor' for 'The Theory of Everything' which I can say is a brilliant, moving and inspiring film. He was truly fantastic, so well deserved Eddie! To add to this delightful win, the man himself, Stephen Hawking was there to witness the triumph of the film based on his life which really was a great success at this years Baftas.
Stephen Fry put on a great show as usual, full of hilarity and quick wit. His introduction of Tom Cruise to present the award for 'Best Film' really did make me laugh. Talking of Cruise, he just does not age! If there is such a thing as looking fantastic at fifty, Tom Cruise is the perfect example.
And finally it was lovely to witness the display of glamorous actors on the Red Carpet, looking at the beautiful dresses and the gorgeous gents, I can't wait for the Oscars, bring it on!
Friday, 30 January 2015
Why travel?
Travelling. One of my main aspirations in life is to travel, to see the world. I'm sure many of you share this desire, especially those of you who are young, finishing uni and thinking what the hell do I do with myself now?! Your probably thinking, like me, I want to do something big, worthwhile, special, life-changing which will be full of memories and most importantly loads of fun!
I mean, these days its almost a right of passage, particularly heading off to Thailand and exploring the worlds sights whilst completing the stereotypical quest of 'finding yourself'. I think travelling should be something everyone participates in, unfortunately its an expensive business, however its possible by saving up!
Why not see the world that has been created for you to explore? The discovery of different cultures may put your life into perspective or encourage you to lead a life similar to theirs. Also, travelling allows to you make friends, possibly friends for life. Going it alone with a couple of mates will put your friendship to the test, having to direct yourself across different continents, jumping on a off trains, comforting someone when they are ill, all these trials and tribulations will bring you closer to those around you. So, top tip, pick to go travelling with friends you know you can rely on!
Now, I am sure you are envisaging going 'travelling' as you and a couple of mates with a few backpacks, hiking around Thailand, partying on the beach and absorbing the culture, however this is not always the case. Travelling can mean going anywhere for any amount of time, so don't let that image put you off. If your limited in funding but still want to get away, jet off on a European city break, there is so much to see in the cities of Europe! I think for me, going inter-railing around Europe, often the cheaper alternative to jumping straight into Aisa, is a great preliminary step to the big year out. And its on my bucket list!
As always, back to my best friend +BuzzFeed here are a few inspirational videos to encourage you to take the plunge and do it, after all, YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE!
Where will you start?
I mean, these days its almost a right of passage, particularly heading off to Thailand and exploring the worlds sights whilst completing the stereotypical quest of 'finding yourself'. I think travelling should be something everyone participates in, unfortunately its an expensive business, however its possible by saving up!
Why not see the world that has been created for you to explore? The discovery of different cultures may put your life into perspective or encourage you to lead a life similar to theirs. Also, travelling allows to you make friends, possibly friends for life. Going it alone with a couple of mates will put your friendship to the test, having to direct yourself across different continents, jumping on a off trains, comforting someone when they are ill, all these trials and tribulations will bring you closer to those around you. So, top tip, pick to go travelling with friends you know you can rely on!
Now, I am sure you are envisaging going 'travelling' as you and a couple of mates with a few backpacks, hiking around Thailand, partying on the beach and absorbing the culture, however this is not always the case. Travelling can mean going anywhere for any amount of time, so don't let that image put you off. If your limited in funding but still want to get away, jet off on a European city break, there is so much to see in the cities of Europe! I think for me, going inter-railing around Europe, often the cheaper alternative to jumping straight into Aisa, is a great preliminary step to the big year out. And its on my bucket list!
As always, back to my best friend +BuzzFeed here are a few inspirational videos to encourage you to take the plunge and do it, after all, YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE!
Where will you start?
Tuesday, 20 January 2015
Is that you Mr Darcy?
“You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you".
-Mr. Darcy”
Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen
We are a few weeks into the New Year, and hows 2015 going of you? Have you stuck to those New Years resolutions or are they already a distant memory? Either way, the new year, new you theme continues, particularly in the department of relationships.
It is a known fact that January is the 'break up' month. People avoid heartbreak over the holiday season, and the welcoming of a new year provides them with the justification to end their relationship, even if they were unhappy back in November!
Whether you have recently broken up with a boyfriend or girlfriend in search for a new start, or have decided to seek out your soulmate, if there is such a thing, you might refer to one of the most classic romantic tales ever produced, Pride and Prejudice by the English treasure, Jane Austen. This is a tale about 'Mr. Right', the one made for you... Or is it? Can this chivalrous fairytale be applied to everyday life, especially in this modern age? I assure you it can. Although there will be no glamorous balls or Georgian dresses, we can take the principles of this relationship to our society. Only in 2001, which actually seems a long time ago now, Bridget Jones's Diary was released onto our screens, a modern day adaptation of our classic romantic tale. For those of you who never realised it, Daniel Clever (Hugh Grant) plays the notorious Mr Wickham and Mark Darcy- big hint there (Colin Firth) plays our hero Mr Darcy. In the end, the slightly clumsier and ungracious Bridget Jones sees through Clever's wicked ways and embraces her love for Mark Darcy.
So what does this classic novel teach us about love? (not to sound too cliche) And is there a Mr Darcy out there for us all?
- Elizabeth Bennet was intelligent and was able to challenge Darcy in conversation, something for women out there to remember, not to be repressed or plainly, don't date someone who you can't talk to for hours or doesn't see you as their equal!
- Mr Darcy is rich and profitable, I'm not saying go after a rich boy, not at all, but understand if you are ambitious in your goals, find someone who shares this ambition with you. You won't feel comfortable dating someone who only wants to watch the football on a saturday night with a takeaway when your ideal saturday night is a trip to see the latest release followed by a pizza at an Italian restaurant.
- Don't date someone who you feel you cannot share things with, the thing with Mr Darcy, although he can be abrupt, he does divulge his feelings.
- Fundamentally, Mr Darcy is a gentleman. Its the little things such as opening doors, giving up their seat for you that all add to that gentlemanly manner. However, those bigger things such as listening to what you have to say, being considerate and thoughtful, and expressing concern about your welfare are all equally important traits of a gentleman.
- Most importantly, Mr Darcy appreciates Elizabeth Bennet for who she is and this is famously echoed in Bridget Jones's Diary with Mark Darcy claiming he liked Bridget 'Just as she is'. Don't change for the sake of someone else, because in the long run you will regret it.
Although these traits may be recognised as 'ideal', they are out there! Who's to say they are not embedded in a friend of yours? Remember, don't reject everyone because these traits don't appear on the surface, dig a little deeper and you never know, you may find your Mr Darcy.
End of Pride and Prejudice (2005)- starring Keira Knightly and Matthew Macfadyen
End of Pride and Prejudice (2005)- starring Keira Knightly and Matthew Macfadyen
'Just as you are' scene from Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)- starring Renee Zellweger and Colin Firth
Friday, 9 January 2015
It's time for the twenties...
On Monday 12th January I will be turning 20! Now for me, a mere 19 year old that seems old! Although Im sure many of you would argue I have my whole life ahead of me still, which I know is true, its still fairly daunting! But thats also what makes this birthday all the more exciting! Although I'm reluctant to leave my teens behind, which have been full of some great memories, embracing the big 20 means the beginning of adulthood. I know I'm not turning 21, which is the key transitional point into adulthood, I'm leaving one decade of my life and entering another, which seems possibly even more scary!
At this stage of your life people are asking me: what are you going to do once you've finished your degree? Have you got a boyfriend? What career path are you wanting to follow? Do you have a job currently?
This bombardment is a constant reminder I haven't exactly got my life planned out, I know the answers to those questions, but its just reaching what I really want out of life. For me, this birthday is not only about getting drunk with some mates to celebrate, although that will be happening I'm sure, but about trying to take the small steps to reaching the larger goals.
Not only this, but I have lived for twenty years, isn't that also cause for celebration? I have survived 20 years of life, with whatever it has thrown at me, I've continued to surpass it. I've witnessed many changes, events and disasters since 1995 and have continued to watch and be part of the development of the society and the world around me. Over these teenage years and particularly recently with moving out and studying at University, I have begun to find myself, what I want, who I am.
So what can I look forward to in my twenties? Here is the top advice about life in your twenties:
So, another decade of my life begins! Happy Birthday Me!
At this stage of your life people are asking me: what are you going to do once you've finished your degree? Have you got a boyfriend? What career path are you wanting to follow? Do you have a job currently?
This bombardment is a constant reminder I haven't exactly got my life planned out, I know the answers to those questions, but its just reaching what I really want out of life. For me, this birthday is not only about getting drunk with some mates to celebrate, although that will be happening I'm sure, but about trying to take the small steps to reaching the larger goals.
Not only this, but I have lived for twenty years, isn't that also cause for celebration? I have survived 20 years of life, with whatever it has thrown at me, I've continued to surpass it. I've witnessed many changes, events and disasters since 1995 and have continued to watch and be part of the development of the society and the world around me. Over these teenage years and particularly recently with moving out and studying at University, I have begun to find myself, what I want, who I am.
So what can I look forward to in my twenties? Here is the top advice about life in your twenties:
- Friends will soon be about quality not quantity. Surround yourself with people who make you laugh and make you feel good about yourself. Cherish them, your are in this journey together.
- You'll begin to love people for their soul, not whats on the outside.
- You'll experience greater equality with people around you. Its not longer about if they are popular, nerdy or sporty, its about who they are.
- Do things that make you happy.
- Take chances (to an extent), you'll regret it later on if you don't.
- Enjoy the moment. Although you may be worrying about the future, don't ignore what is going on in your life at that current moment.
'I thought I knew everything about love and relationships in my 20s, the ignorance of youth is bliss. As you get older, you start to realise that you don't really know anything and life is a great traveling journey. Life is unexpected…you just never know whats going to happen'. Reese Witherspoon
Check out Buzzfeed for other articles about entering your twenties! Heres a few of my favourites:
- Every Year Of Your Twenties, Ranked from Worst to Best http://www.buzzfeed.com/summeranne/every-year-of-your-20s-ranked-from-worst-to-best#.lxB9pVOddP
- 18 Ways To Make The Best Of Your Twenties http://www.buzzfeed.com/erinlarosa/tips-to-make-sure-you-enjoy-your-twenties#.yl9knWP88d
- 23 Times Rachel From "Friends" Perfectly Summarised What It's Like To Be In Your Twenties http://www.buzzfeed.com/briangalindo/23-times-rachel-from-friends-perfectly-summarized-what-its-l#.vr9xbqNAAX
- 14 Important Ways To Survive Your Twenties, As Told By Grace Helbig http://www.buzzfeed.com/samimain/graces-guide#.ixgenBa88p
- Your Relationship With Your Mum In Your Teens VS. Your Twenties http://www.buzzfeed.com/jenniferschaffer/mama-really-does-know-best#.eqqKRayOOl
- 17 Signs Your Actually Becoming An Adult http://www.buzzfeed.com/krystieyandoli/signs-youre-actually-becoming-an-adult#.xbJOZQoggB
So, another decade of my life begins! Happy Birthday Me!
Monday, 29 December 2014
New Year, New You?
Soo, we are in the final days of 2014! How exciting! But this is also very scary?! Where has this year gone? It is certainly true that with age the years go quicker. So with that Christmas chaos over, everyone is turning their thoughts to the new year. How are you going to celebrate it? Is 2015 going to be a new start for you? I have listed some new years resolutions for those of you struggling out there! Now, as everyone promises at the beginning of each year that they will stick by their resolution and by March they can't even remember what it was in the first place, this year I am actually going to abide by it! Remember its small steps that help you achieve your overall goal.
My new years resolution: Take more advantage of the opportunities presented to me in all aspects of life.
Here are five resolutions to think about:
1. Get Fit- probably the most popular new years resolution that almost everyone promises to themselves, and possibly the one most commonly broken! Getting fit is not just about hitting the gym for two hours a day, its the small things. If you can, choose to walk or cycle to work/ uni/ school, walking is one of the best ways to get fit. Replace toast for breakfast with muesli or porridge, both of which slowing release energy throughout the day. Don't snack past 9pm, a late night nibble is always tempting I know but try and hold off until the morning! Exercising can increase your serotonin levels by releasing endorphins which make you a generally happier person! Start slow with a walk/jog and then increase your milage or alternatively join the gym and build up your fitness level. Also, there are so many sports clubs out there go along, you never know you may love it!
2. Travel- This is really reliant on time and money, but if you can experience somewhere new! This isn't just about holidays either. I know in my head I'm desperate to go to New York as soon as I can, however I'm rather restricted in the financial department being a student, so I'm gonna start saving in the new year! However, even spending those Sundays with family or friends in different cities in the UK or at places you've always wanted to visit makes such as difference to your life in 2015, making you feel good about yourself for visiting somewhere new out of the monotonous routine.
3. Learn Something New- Now this may be the easiest and possibly cheapest resolution you can take on. Learning little things from baking different cakes, or knitting some socks to learning to play a new sport or gaining a qualification can make a difference to your life with that great feeling of achievement. Achieving something instigates that sense of pride, and its always nice to feel proud of yourself once in a while.
4. Be More Positive- With every problem, or everything that hasn't quite gone your way try and think of one positive outcome, even if it is to learn from your mistake. That way, those day to day things won't feel so bad, and you'll become more of a positive person.
5. Take Care of Yourself- Maybe once per week treat yourself to some 'me time'. If you have time, take a relaxing bath with some amazing smelling bubble bath, a bit of music, I recommend a bit of Norah Jones, its so relaxing! Take care of your skin by using moisturiser and cleansers and if you have ten minutes, a face mask does the world of good. You will notice a change in your skin, and this will help you build confidence, you will feel better about yourself and it is worthwhile!
To see other recommended resolutions, check out Buzzfeed- http://www.buzzfeed.com/maggyvaneijk/candy-crush-invites-are-a-no-go#.cwL2WbRddV
My new years resolution: Take more advantage of the opportunities presented to me in all aspects of life.
Here are five resolutions to think about:
1. Get Fit- probably the most popular new years resolution that almost everyone promises to themselves, and possibly the one most commonly broken! Getting fit is not just about hitting the gym for two hours a day, its the small things. If you can, choose to walk or cycle to work/ uni/ school, walking is one of the best ways to get fit. Replace toast for breakfast with muesli or porridge, both of which slowing release energy throughout the day. Don't snack past 9pm, a late night nibble is always tempting I know but try and hold off until the morning! Exercising can increase your serotonin levels by releasing endorphins which make you a generally happier person! Start slow with a walk/jog and then increase your milage or alternatively join the gym and build up your fitness level. Also, there are so many sports clubs out there go along, you never know you may love it!
2. Travel- This is really reliant on time and money, but if you can experience somewhere new! This isn't just about holidays either. I know in my head I'm desperate to go to New York as soon as I can, however I'm rather restricted in the financial department being a student, so I'm gonna start saving in the new year! However, even spending those Sundays with family or friends in different cities in the UK or at places you've always wanted to visit makes such as difference to your life in 2015, making you feel good about yourself for visiting somewhere new out of the monotonous routine.
3. Learn Something New- Now this may be the easiest and possibly cheapest resolution you can take on. Learning little things from baking different cakes, or knitting some socks to learning to play a new sport or gaining a qualification can make a difference to your life with that great feeling of achievement. Achieving something instigates that sense of pride, and its always nice to feel proud of yourself once in a while.
4. Be More Positive- With every problem, or everything that hasn't quite gone your way try and think of one positive outcome, even if it is to learn from your mistake. That way, those day to day things won't feel so bad, and you'll become more of a positive person.
5. Take Care of Yourself- Maybe once per week treat yourself to some 'me time'. If you have time, take a relaxing bath with some amazing smelling bubble bath, a bit of music, I recommend a bit of Norah Jones, its so relaxing! Take care of your skin by using moisturiser and cleansers and if you have ten minutes, a face mask does the world of good. You will notice a change in your skin, and this will help you build confidence, you will feel better about yourself and it is worthwhile!
To see other recommended resolutions, check out Buzzfeed- http://www.buzzfeed.com/maggyvaneijk/candy-crush-invites-are-a-no-go#.cwL2WbRddV
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