Showing posts with label December. Show all posts
Showing posts with label December. Show all posts

Every now and then, I like to switch it up a little bit and do something different. The other day I watched an interview on YouTube with Ari Lennox and Summer Walker. It was a short conversation talking about all the things they’re “over” in light of Summer Walker’s latest album, Over It. If you haven’t listened to it, it’s amazing and has been on repeat ever since it came out.

I thought I'd take a leaf out of their book... okay, I'm just doing it in blog post form... and have my own go discussing what I'm over and what is not coming with me into the new year...

Drama…

A lot of drama comes from miscommunication and in a world with more streams of communication than ever before, why do we still suck at communicating? We have so many privileges that other people don’t have so why are we still afraid of sharing our feelings? Also, I have never had as much drama in my life as I currently do now. Life was so much simpler when there wasn’t drama. Let’s leave it to Eastenders, please. 

…over it

Body Hair…

Regrowth after a day, razor burn, cut legs... body hair grows back so quickly and it gets darker and darker each time. I’m over it completely. It’s the bane of my existence and it needs to not be. I don’t know how I’m going to do it but I’m leaving my body hair in 2019.

…over it


People’s opinions on my love life...

Do you have a boyfriend yet? No. You’re so picky, you’ll never find anyone. I’m sorry, what? One of the things I’m over more than anything is people’s opinions on my love life. Since when was it ever out in the open and up for debate? When I am emotionally ready to bare my deepest feelings and am ready to receive someone else’s, I will let you know. But until then, I’ll do me and you can sort your own love life out.

...over it.

Acne…

I’m starting to believe my skin has a mind of its own. No matter what I do or what I don’t do, there is always a pimple. A mark. A blemish. I’m tired of looking at my skin and seeing red marks everywhere. As much as I’m tired of acne, I’m also tired of all the work it takes to try and get rid of it. Spot cream, serum, moisturiser, natural remedies; I’m starting to think that either my skin is as stubborn as I am or it’s all just a marketing ploy. I don’t do anything to it and it explodes. 

….over it.


This post has been fun to write and if you’re a fellow blogger, give it a try and tag me in them. I’d love to see them! These four things are sadly the significant things that go round and round in my life and create the most negative energy. I predict that 2020 will be a great year. There are lots of great things happening such as graduating from university and (fingers crossed) getting my dream graduate job and a ton more things. Maybe I’ll fall in love? Maybe I’ll move into my own place? Maybe I’ll make more friends? The list of possibilities is endless.


Happy 2020 guys!!!

Love, Aoife xo


In my first year of university, I wrote a post in line with the American holiday of Thanksgiving and shared all the things I was thankful for. It also happens to be one of my more popular posts. The post has weighed heavily on my mind ever since and I felt like I owed it myself to write another one. 

Reading over it again today, I feel quite proud of the person who wrote it. At that moment in time, I had started university, moved away from home and quite frankly had no clue whatsoever what I was doing.

Two years later, not much has changed. I still don’t know exactly what I’m doing but I do know that every day I’m doing something I love and am passionate about. So, there’s that. I know I’m stealing blog post ideas from myself but I wanted to write another one because there is so much that goes on in life that we can forget all the great things that have happened and we’re able to do. And, I just want to take a moment to share and reflect. 



The first thing I am grateful for, like in the last one, is for all the opportunities that have come my way. And like back then, I took them with both hands. Over the summer, I had the internship of my dreams at Marie Claire. Where I was given actual responsibilities. All the people I met were incredibly nice and the atmosphere was so welcoming. I’ve made lots of new contacts which that in itself is amazing. 

I am eternally grateful to have the privilege of travelling. I love travelling to different places, exploring different cultures and trying the local delicacies. Every summer, I save up and travel somewhere new. This summer was no different. I went to Venice with my friend in August and I absolutely loved it. We explored every inch of the islands, weaving in and out of alleyways, and crossing bridges. I didn’t quite realise at the time, but Venice is sinking and who knows if it’ll still be there by the time I have kids or have grandchildren? But, I have a million memories to share with them.


Lastly, I am thankful for having such amazing friends who have been an absolute rock this past year, especially the ones who gave me their shoulder when I cried. And there were a lot of sleep deprived tears falling. I am thankful for the ones who took me on therapy sessions to Tesco. To the ones who called me up and motivated me when I needed it. And, for all our lunches at Las Iguanas. 

The past year has taught me a million lessons about life and myself. Life will not always be the happy dreamland I thought I could get stay in. Sometimes it’s a lot harder than that. One thing I’ve learnt is how incredibly strong we all are. Even though it doesn't feel like it, we will never be faced with something we can’t handle. It just requires a little digging to find the strength you need.

What are you grateful for this year?

Aoife xo

Hello, lovelies! I hope you've all had a wonderful Christmas. If you're like me and the celebrations have finished then you may already be planning the shopping trip to indulge yourself in. I'm currently on my way to the shops and while I wait to get there, I've put together some tips and tricks.

Boxing Day shopping is a lot like a military operation. There are certain steps that must be taken in order to have a successful shopping trip.

If you don’t know already, I am obsessed with fashion and beauty and I L O V E to shop! For the last 4 years, I’ve ventured out after Christmas for the Boxing Day Sales and I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks along the way to making it a successful shop. Because going out shopping and not picking up anything is the worse thing! Especially when you’ve dedicated a day to it!!

Like I said earlier, Boxing day shopping is a lot like a military operation and here is how we conquer it…

Step 1- Be prepared! It can feel a lot like you’ve landed in chaos when you get to the shops. To land on your feet, have a few ideas of what you want to buy and where to go. Before I go out, I put together a small mental list of some items I’d like to pick up. On the way there, my friend and I plan the shops we want to hit and in what order. This will set you on your feet and after a successful purchase, you’ll find your rhythm.

Step 2- Arrive Early but not too early! You want to get there somewhat early to have a good choice of the items in the sale but you don’t want to get there too early otherwise you’ll get stuck in the queues and waste your day. Arriving a little later will guarantee a good choice of what’s on sale and you’ll miss the queues by 15-30 minutes.

Step 3- Shop methodically. Stick to the plan you made of what shops to hit and in what order. Once that’s done and you have most of the things you came out for, you can start looking in other shops.

Step 4- Don’t Rush and stay calm. There’s no need to rush around like headless chickens from shop to shop. You’ve dedicated the whole day to shopping and by taking your time in each shop, you’ll find some hidden treasures. You’ll also find yourself as the calm amongst the storm which is great for the mind. 

Step 5- Boxing Day shopping sets off the new year. I always pick up a few clothes that I know will sort me through the year ahead. Take advantage of the sales and buy things you like! Don’t feel restricted by the weather outside, I’m that person who buys a few summer items when it’s minus 2 outside. My Mum’s always telling me off but I was brought up to take advantage of the opportunity. And that, I do

Those are my tips and tricks for conquering the Boxing Day Sales. Whether you’re ready to hit the shops on the busiest day or wait a few days, 
Happy Shopping!!


Love, Aoife x
Happy Christmas Eve!!! Aren’t you feeling Christmassy this cosy evening? Before I begin…..

I just wanna wish you all a Merry Christmas! Whether you're celebrating it with family, friends, loved ones or by yourself, from my family to you, have a great Christmas! Best wishes, Aoife xx

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I’ve seen this Tag bouncing around on other blogger’s site’s and I thought I’d give it a go! We’re coming to the end of Blogmas and before I write my last post, I wanted to do something a little more relaxing. Anyway, I’ll get on with the questions!

What is your favourite Christmas song?

Mariah Carey all the way!! All I want for Christmas is my go-to Christmas song. It gets me in the mood every time!

What’s your favourite Christmas film?

I love watching the rubbish Christmas films!! You know the really cheesy, often low budget, cringe films. With really bad actors that are usually shown on Channel 5 or Netflix. Like the romantic ones that sometimes have princes involved. You know those ones? Those- I love them!

What’s your dream place to visit for the holiday season?

I’d love to experience Christmas in Australia! Or somewhere hot. Everyone will be relaxed and you wouldn’t have to worry about being freezing!

But I’d also like to celebrate it somewhere in the Alps with log cabins, snow, UGG boots and cosy jumpers.

Have you ever had a white Christmas?

Not that I know off. But it sounds amazing though!

Is your tree real or fake?

Fake! All the way! Whilst I love the idea of having a real tree and bringing nature into your home for the festive period. I could not cope with all the needles and bald necks. I might get one in the future but for now, I’m perfectly happy looking at my fake one.

What’s your favourite colour combination of Christmas decorations?

There’s a lot of reds and golds around my house. They compliment the green and go with the interior decor at home.

Does your family have any Christmas Traditions?

We only have one and that falls on Christmas Eve. Before the actual day, me and my Brother always have a bath or shower so we go to bed squeaky clean ready for Santa to drop his gifts during the night. I’m sure that was a trick by my parents to make sure we washed more but it’s stuck. And I think the idea’s cute!

What time do you wake up on Christmas Day?

It varies every year but usually between 8 at the earliest or 10 at the very latest.

Favourite part of Christmas dinner?

Umm…. Pigs in Blankets, obvs!

What is your favourite Christmas drink?

I love a good cup of Cocoa! It has to be Cadbury’s original hot chocolate- the one that comes in the purple tub. Yes, that one!!

What is your Christmas Day Fashion?

The first half is spent in PJ’s. Unwrapping presents, eating breakfast etc. Then it’s time to get ready. I usually wear an occasion dress to make things feel special. 

Do you open your presents before or after dinner?

Before! I mean who’s prepared to wait when there are wrapped gifts under the tree It’s the first thing we do when we come down. 

Can you name all of Santa’s Reindeer? 

Not really, I know there’s Rudolph. I could attempt the rest but I’ll probably end up embarrassing myself.

What makes the holidays special for you?

I think it’s that the whole family comes together. It’s the one time you can guarantee that the whole family will be able to spend more than six hours together! I love that everyone comes together, family, friends, even people you don’t often talk to. It’s the season to show love and be kind to one another. To show you care. It’s a beautiful season. 


Well if you got to the bottom, well done! I hope you enjoyed this little post because I certainly liked answering all of them.

Merry Christmas,


Aoife x
London is such a beautiful city! One of my favourite things to do during winter is to walk around and look at all the winter lights around the city. As London is so massive, with lots to do and see, I thought I do a little post on some of the must-see lights of London. All the pictures were taken mostly at night as that’s the best way to see them. 


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The other day I went out by myself for a mini adventure around London. I started at Somerset house to see the big Christmas Tree next to the skating rink they put up.


From there I walked up to Covent Garden to catch a look at the giant Baubles and Mistletoe. After taking a billion pictures of the baubles and around the square, I walked through Leicester Square and over to Piccadilly Circus, London’s mini Times Square.



Heading up Regent Street, I walked up towards Oxford Circus stopping to look at the Hamley’s window display. I remember as I kid being fascinated with the window displays; they were always amazing to look at!

I took quite a few pictures of the angels hung above the roads. They’re so cute and innocent hung up there. It makes the road beneath feel special.


I followed Oxford Street down to John Lewis to pick something up for my Mum, looking at the hanging lights and Christmas displays around the store. 

I then walked down to Selfridge’s which I ended up getting lost in. They have some cute lights on the side of their building which I think encompasses the romance of Christmas.


After that, I headed back up Oxford Street to walk down New Bond Street, which is my favourite street ever! It’s a road full of designers from Valentino, Dior, Chanel, Cartier, Ralph Lauren, Gucci etc. I love walking down the road when it’s dark and during winter. All the stores glisten and sparkle; it’s magical. I had a lot of fun walking down this street.


I then headed towards Green Park station to head home. London is a great place to walk around and explore as all the attractions are spread out across the city.

Love, Aoife x

P.S- Any places I've missed? Comment recommendations below, I'd love to visit xxx

Nighttime is one of my favourite times of the day. It’s the only time we get to truly be ourselves. We wash off the mask we’ve worn all day and have a chance to unwind. It’s in those moments before I slip in between my sheets, where I can pamper myself and reflect on the day I’ve just had. It’s the only time I can be myself; I’m finally not busy. No ones pushing me towards anything and I’m not in a hurry. It’s a beautiful time.

One of the ways I like to unwind is by washing the day off my face, giving it a little pampering after the harsh conditions it faces throughout a normal day.

I have to say, I didn't realise how many products I use until you put them all together. They're usually in different places around the room.

My first step is removing any make-up and bits of dirt with Garner Micellar Cleansing Water. It’s literally the greatest thing for removing make-up and doesn’t leave your face feeling dry like Face wipes do.

After that, I’ve been using La Roche-Posay Effacular Purifying Gel wash for oily sensitive skin. The lovely people from PR sent it over and it’s honestly my favourite thing. Compared to the previous face wash I’d been using before, I definitely felt as though all the excess sebum had been removed and my face felt cleaner and refreshed. This face wash definitely goes deeper in removing excess oils than other high street brands, so you actually feel fresh-faced. For £12 it’s definitely worth it. I’ll have a post coming out on that soon!

Once I’ve washed that off, I use Witch Gentle Exfoliating Face Wash to remove the dead skin cells and build up in my pores. I love that this is gentle and boosts the skin's hydration. Exfoliating daily helps to encourage blood flow to the face and it’s what gets you that natural glow.



My favourite step in my skincare routine is moisturizing. I’m obsessed with it! After I’ve pat-dried my face, I go in first with Simple Kind to eyes soothing eye balm, lightly patting it over my eyes with my ring finger. I then use Tea Tree Essential Oil which is great for targeting spots. It’s the most effective treatment I’ve found that does actually target and reduce the size within a few hours. I use my pinky finger and apply a little dab of oil on any spots.


Once my skin has a chance to absorb that, I use a little Bio-Oil. I’ve only started using this recently and it was actually my Mum who recommended it to me. She said it would be good for the light scaring I have on my face and clearing away the blemishes. So far so good. I was a little worried that to would leave my face looking really oily but as it spreads easily you only need a little bit.

After the Bio-Oil, I go in with my moisturiser. Olay Complete lightweight day fluid. It’s perfect for oily skin and it contains extra vitamins and SPF. I love applying moisturiser on a soft, smooth and freshly washed face. It feels heavenly.

I’ve also made a little video sharing the steps down below. So check it out! 


What do you guys do to rewind in the evening?


Love, Aoife x


Dare I ask the question- have you started present shopping yet? Getting your Christmas present shopping done early is the best thing as you can be nice and relaxed by the time Christmas Day comes along. The key to a great Christmas gift is that it’s heartfelt and there was thought put into it.

Being obsessed with everything fashion, beauty and lifestyle, it made sense that I put together a wishlist of my top picks for what to get for Christmas. My edit includes a few must-haves for any fashion lover and those interested in Style, Beauty and personal appearance.

Books

Apologies for the colours, having issues with backgrounds in my uni room
How to be a Parisian- I have been obsessed with everything French lately. They just do everything better from romance to fashion to skincare. How to be a Parisian is a book written by a group of French women who write about every aspect of life. This is definitely one of those of books that anyone interested in Lifestyle would love and for those interested in French living.

Love x Style x LifeGarance Dore - This is definitely on my wishlist for Christmas. I’m going to say it’s somewhat similar to How to be a Parisian as it’s like a guide that takes you through different parts with personal stories weaved in. Nicknamed the French Grace Coddington, this book is guaranteed to set hearts racing and provide an insightful guide to the life of a fashion blogger.

Inside Vogue, Alexandra Shulman- For those who have ever wondered what being the editor at Vogue is like, this book is one for you. It’s a diary by the fabulous and former editor Alexandra Shulman taking the reader through the centenary year. She talks about the Fashion Weeks and Designers to the business of running a magazine and all the work behind the scenes. This book is not only perfect for those interested in fashion but also those interested in magazine journalism too.

The Bare Essentials, Tracy Martin- The perfect stocking filler! For anyone with a love of lingerie and the relationship we have with it, this book is perfect. It’s a short and sweet little book examining the history and how underwear has evolved through the years.

Films

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Confessions of a Shopaholic- For all my shopaholics out there, this is your film! It’s the perfect girls night in film or for when you just need a good laugh. Based on Sophie Kinsella’s novel, Confessions of a Shopaholic (you should read that too), the film featuring Isla Fisher is perfect for anyone obsessed with fashion and shopping. The laugh out loud comedy is full of clothes, shopping and more clothes! A dream, right?

Sex and The City- Friends, Fashion, Manhatten and Sex! The perfect combination. The Sex and the City series and films are a must see!

Devil Wears Prada- Nothing beats a Meryl Streep film especially when she's playing Miranda Priestly. Featuring Anne Hathaway, this film makes the list of films you have to watch at least once and know about.

If you're looking to spend a little more cash, a Jo Malone candle, like this one, is the perfect gift! It smells heavenly and is loved by everyone!

It's a short little edit but those are just a few ideas of what you can get a fashion/ beauty/ lifestyle obsessed fanatic. Some of them I even have on my own wish list!

Love, Aoife x




It’s Blogmas day 2 and the festivities have hit me in full force! I spent the first day sick in bed and it was horrible! But I’ve taken some medicine and I’m on the path to recovery. I woke up feeling much better and it’s like a light has been switched on inside- the countdown has officially begun! 

I find putting up Christmas decorations is definitely something that gets me in the festive mood. It’s a great feeling and gets my excitement up for the month. Christmas atmosphere is the best! I love walking through the Christmas markets and going to see the lights. The atmosphere is made up of good times and happiness and it's good to carry that through into your home.

I love putting Christmas decorations up around the house. It gives life to the dark, making the cold winter nights that much cosier and warmer. I went out yesterday to buy some decorations to make my uni room feel a little bit more Christmassy. I’m only here for two more weeks before I go home so I didn’t want to go overboard. I ended up picking up a few bits in Primark.





LED light Tree, £8- I love this tree; It’s so cute and minimalist! The metal frame is simple making it the perfect Christmas decoration that doesn’t make the room look overcrowded. It’s the perfect touch for a bedroom decoration.

LED firefly lights (40), £2.50- I have been obsessed with these lights lately! I already have two sets up in my room and bought another set to hang over my bed. With all the lights hung up and switched on means my room looks super cosy. The perfect winter atmosphere!

Large Cream Throw, £9- Primark throws are the best; they’re warm and oh so affordable. I had a grey one previously but I decided to get a cream one as it brightens the room up and softens the atmosphere. Plus, it makes my bed look gloriously, inviting which is a dream!

Those are just a few little pieces I've bought and surprisingly they have made such a big impact. 

Have you started decorating yet? If so, what have you bought?

Love, Aoife x

Welcome to my first Blogmas post!!! I’ve never done blogmas before so we’ll see where I get to… This is probably the most challenging thing I’ve ever done!

For those of you who don’t know -although most will- blogmas is a series of Christmassy related posts posted on the lead up to Christmas. Don’t worry I’m not going to go Christmas mad or anything! Day 5 is probably my non-Christmassy post but it keeps the essence of the magical season. Anyway, I’ll be posting Christmas wish lists, some fashion and beauty related posts and other special posts- So keep your eyes peeled! 

Christmas for me is a time of love, family, friends and good times. I hate the cold but I love the cosy nights in cuddled up on the sofa watching a tacky Christmas film- which are always the best! 

With that introduction done, let’s get on to my December goals!


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Last month I posted my November Goals and I’m proud to say I checked most of the goals off. I’m still not as organised as I want to be but we’re halfway there! I know you are all after whether I went and did something out of my comfort zone. I think in every day there’s something we do outside of our comfort zone, so in a way that one could be ticked off easily. I didn’t get as far the club but I almost made it to the pub. Haha! One of the girls forgot their ID so we had to turn back and we ended up chilling in the kitchen instead.

With that said, I’ve got some new goals to set for myself for this month:

Sort everyone’s Christmas present out early and not leave it last minute. Running around London and shopping is not fun when you feel under pressure.

Keep up with Blogmas! This one’s not a joke. I’m going to need focus and determination to keep this thing going. It’s a massive challenge for me but it’s important to challenge yourself otherwise you’d never get anywhere.

Make the most of my holidays. I don’t think I’ve ever been one to sit around and do nothing all holiday. I like to keep busy, keep moving. When I go back home -London I’ve missed you!- I want to make the most of my time there. There are already places I’d like to visit and things I’d like to do.


Put more effort into relationships. I feel like I often take advantage of the fact that I already know people and that I have lots of friends so I don’t put in as much effort as I perhaps should. Like I said earlier, Christmas is a time for friends and family and I’m going to set myself the goal of putting in more effort to make them feel more special and letting them know I care about them.

Get ready for the new year. We’ve reached the last month of 2017 and whilst I wish I could say this year has gone quick- it hasn’t. June seems like ages away and February is history. By the end of this month, I want to be ready for the rollercoaster of 2018 because it’s going to be great!



So those are a few of my December goals, have you got any to add?

Love, Aoife x

Photo Credit: Nazani