Liverpool

This weekend I took the first of what is to be many trips to Liverpool. Being a London girl through and through I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the city. Even though the trip was just a taster it gave me lots of ideas of things to do the next time I visit! Everyone was so friendly and helpful, I guess it is true what they say about the North ;)!

On Friday we stayed at the Base2Stay boutique hotel, which was in a great location, minutes from Lime Street Station, the city centre and most importantly for me the Liverpool One shopping centre, which reminded me of an open air Westfield.

After a quick change we headed to the Albert Docks for dinner at the Blue Bar and Grill. I chose a midi dress from Oasis (on sale in store, online here) with Primark turquoise stone and leather sandals.

The bf wore a checked shirt from Ted Baker that I picked out a few weeks ago. I really like the thicker, classic blue check mixed with a thin 'zingy' lime stripe. The cool colour palette really sets off a tan and with it's rolled up sleeves works perfectly for the Summer!

The next day we were up early to explore the town in the beautiful sunshine. The perfect excuse to wear my new tortoiseshell sunglasses from Fiorelli that I picked up in a recent BrandAlley sale.

  Cool kids!

Star jumpsuit - Zara. Shoes - Primarni (as before).

I hope you all had a lovely weekend in the sunshine! xxx

Work It Out: Bow

Everyone needs a little shift dress - it suits any bodyshape and can hide all manner of sins, even a big pasta lunch in my case ;).

 Bow Shift Dress - Ted Baker.  Shoes - Zara

With a cardigan or suit jacket for the day and a statement clutch for the evening a shift dress is a perfect transition piece from morning to night.

Glee!

On Tuesday night the bf and I went to see the cast of Glee live at the O2. Having received the tickets as a New Year gift (Russians celebrate New Year instead of Christmas, so I celebrate both!) we were eagerly anticipating the date... though when I say we I really mean just me.

Yup.. I'm a total Gleek ;). 

Swallow print dress is from Oasis sale here.

Luckily we had pretty good seats, so it was actually easier to watch the stage than the screens and the mini stage in the middle of the arena was right opposite us. I took too many pictures to share them all, but here are a few of my favourites :).

It's Britney B*tch.. or Bitey in this photo lol ;).

Puck walked through the crowd accompanied by 5 bodyguards... tough guy huh?

Mercedes was incredible.. such a powerful voice!

The Warblers!

 All the single ladies...

and Kurt...

 We had such an amazing night that I almost lost my voice. I admit I am the world's worst singer, but if there's a prize for trying... ;).

Do you love Glee? Did you see them in concert this week? Did I just completely shatter your opinion of me? lol xxx

Lauren Conrad Waves with BaByliss Waving Wand

A few weeks ago I was invited to film a hair tutorial video with Babyliss to recreate Lauren Conrad's beautiful signature waves with the expert help of hairdresser to the stars Beverly C. As you all know I am a huge fan of the original conical wand, so I was excited to see how the waving wand would compare. I was happy to learn that it is just as easy to use, and creates beautiful, deep crested waves in minutes that are absolutely ideal for the summer.


Lauren Conrad is famous for her trademark style, always looking effortlessly, but perfectly polished. We had so many inspirational looks to chose from, but decided on an easy loose braid and relaxed waves that could work on any hair type or length. The side braid is especially great for those who are growing out a fringe!

I was really happy with the finished look as it's so quick to do and holds really well throughout the day. If you want to see more videos in the 'Get The Look' series please do check out the BaByliss facebook page here, and if you could 'like' my video it would mean a lot to me too :).

I really hope you enjoy the tutorial and get the chance to try it out! xxx

Garnier Ultralift Challenge - Free 14 Day Sample Kit

According to recent statistics 71% of of consumers don’t believe in anti-ageing claims, and I admit I am one of them. Being on the right side of 25 (not that I'm suggesting there's a 'wrong' side) I haven't delved too deeply into anti-ageing skincare, but even so I have my doubts as to its efficacy, and whether all the highly celebrated and subsequently highly priced creams really do what they say on the jar - reduce or prevent those wrinklies.

Coming from a scientific background I need to be presented with real evidence before I believe anything, so I was interested to see that Garnier are hoping to convince us sceptics once and for all with their Ultralift Challege. To take part all you have to do is sign up here (takes less than a minute) and you will be sent a free 14 day sample kit plus a ‘Wrinkle Reader’ to measure your progress. No strings :). Though after your trial you are welcome to visit the website and share your results!

I have just registered for my free kit... though as I don't think I will make the best test subject all that's left to do is find a willing guinea pig *looks furtively around the office*...

Have you tried Garnier Ultralift? Will you be taking part in Garnier's Ultralift Challenge in the coming weeks? Please do let me know how you all get on! xxx