Christmas Party Wish List

Christmas party season is almost here and with it comes the horror of trying to find an outfit that is suitably festive, formal or party appropriate during the chaos of shopping centres at this time of the year. During the party season and also New Year, I'm always late while pretty much all of my wardrobe is on the floor and still have nothing to wear! However this year I'm trying to be as organised as I am with my christmas present shopping (it's pretty much all done), here are some party outfit ideas featuring Daniel Footwear and Dezzal.

Lace Skater Dress  -  Bodycon Dress with Lace Skirt  -  Lace Shift Dress  -  Patent Stud Heels  -  Suede Pointed Heels  -  Velvet Platform Sandals 

I'm all for simple, minimal dresses and all three of these are gorgeous and perfect for the upcoming christmas and new year parties. I love lace detailing, it makes any dress instantly more party ready without being too formal or overstated. I've picked three pairs of heels to correspond with each dress; I think the pretty studded heels will be perfect with the yellow lace dress. A little black dress and black suede heels are a classic and timeless combination! This is a sponsored post.

What do you think of the dresses and heels I've featured? Have you bought anything from Daniel Footwear?

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Book Review: The Diabolic

I'm so close to my 70th book of 2016, it's crazy and I'm so happy with my progress especially as my reading goal was only 30 books! I've read a range of genres this year from classics and adult fiction to YA, graphic novels, picture books and many more. YA or young adult fiction has become one of my favourite genres as they are usually fun, entertaining, easy and quick to get through and very assessable but they tend to have consistent tropes which I'm not a massive fan of but The Diabolic is something else...

I was very kindly sent *The Diabolic by S. J. Kincaid (£5, hardcover, sale) from the lovely people at Simon and Schuster UK. It's an amazing price for a hardcover so get it while you can! The book is categorised within the young adult and science fiction genres - while I'm used to the YA genre, I haven't read much science fiction at all! The hardcover edition is 416 pages and the cover is so striking.

The book follows Sidonia and her diabolic, Nemesis, as well as her family during a tumultuous time in which radical, scientific thinking is coming back in place of the current religion which is making the powers at be more than a little nervous and trigger happy. A diabolic is an individual who has superhuman like abilities such as hearing and strength and they can be bonded to another individual who they will protect for life. But when politics and obviously a love interest get in the way, who will Nemesis choose and will the world survive the purge, politics and love?

The writing style is very quick and easy to follow so I managed to finish the 416 pages in a couple of days which is one of the reasons I really like reading YA! The writing style makes a slightly complicated world with a variety of characters and politics/factions easier to understand. The book features a lot of science fiction and politics which I haven't read much of before and I loved the political side of the story.

I loved the relationship between Sidonia and Nemesis as well as the relationship between Nemesis and Tyrus (to be honest one of the main reasons I wanted to reach he end was to find out if a certain two characters would get together - I'm SO happy with the ending!). I found all of the characters to be vidid, the world feels familiar but something I haven't read about before and it read like a YA science fiction/romance TV series which I personally loved. There are some ancient Rome vibes as well as some similarities with Red Queen but they are two completely different books but I loved both! As in Red Queen there are a lot of twists and turns, some of which I thought would happen and others I didn't - it was a fantastic rollercoaster and I think if you like YA then you will adore this book! To me it was like a story from ancient roman times of love, friendship and especially death and betrayal but set in space! The only reason it lost one star was because I found it to be a bit angsty towards the end which was a little annoying and other times it was quite brutal but in a way that it was a little over the top, in my opinion. Overall rating: ★★★★☆, 4/5.

Have you read this book? What are your currently reading? 

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The Body Shop Matte Liquid Lipsticks

As well as Avon, Rimmel and Natural Collection, The Body Shop cosmetics were some of the first that I tried when I was a teenager and I've loved their products ever since. The first eyeshadow product I bought was one of the iconic shimmer cubes which I used constantly so I was very excited when a lovely package arrived including some festive goodies and these on trend matte liquid lipsticks.

There are so many shades to choose from but I was sent three gorgeous picks; *The Body Shop Matte Lip Liquid (£6) are creamy liquid lipsticks that claim to dry down to a lightweight, matte finish that is long lasting - it sounds like a perfect product for me as I'm not a fan of glossy finishes and I am all for long lasting lip products!

The first shade is Tahiti Hibiscus which in the tube looks like a deep purple pink but on the lips it's much brighter (it's the middle tube in the first photo). I love the colour in the tube and you can get that when you pack on a tonne of product but when one thin coat on the lips, it's looks like a vivid berry, purple tint. It looks more red in the photo but in 'real life' it's more purple/electric pink - it's surprisingly difficult to photograph the colour as it actually is! It's creamy and applies smoothly but the applicator isn't super precise so it can take a while to apply very neatly. Overall rating: ★★★★☆, 4/5.

Next up is definitely my favourite shade from the three I was able to try and it's Sydney Amaryllis which is a bright, almost coral red - the photograph above shows it really well. Again, it's creamy and smooth on the lips which feels light and comfortable but it means that it isn't the easily to apply as it can smudge but when it sets it lasts pretty well on me. This shade would be perfect for the upcoming christmas party season! The only issue is that as the shade is quite warm/orange toned, on my skin/lips anyway, it isn't the most flattering when it comes to my teeth; however the longevity of this shade is incredible, it lasts all day even through eating! Overall rating: ★★★★☆, 4/5.

Lastly, the boldest shade of the three and the one that's least like any of the others in my collection. The Sicily Iris shade is just gorgeous, it's perfect for this time of the year and I love it; however the darker the shade, the more likely I am to make a mistake and screw up the application and with darker shades there's no where to hide! The application takes the longest to get it neat but that's the same for all dark, bold shades but sadly it's a little patchy on me which you can see in the photo above - I still love it though. Overall rating: ★★★★☆, 4/5.

Overall, I love the shades I was kindly with my favourite being Sydney Amaryllis as it makes my complexion look radiant and brighter, if that makes sense! The formula is creamy, smooth and very comfortable on the lips but it can lead to messy application if you aren't careful. There are a couple of minor issues but for the really low price of £6, they are well worth trying! The longevity is AMAZING! I definitely need to pick up the Windsor Rose shade now!

Have you tried any of makeup from The Body Shop? What do you think of these shades? 

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Christmas With Harrods

Is there anything more luxurious than a Harrods Christmas hamper? I don't think so! When an email arrived about reviewing a Harrods Christmas hamper, I have to admit than I did squeal slightly and then even more so when this amazing *and huge* box arrived filled with a selection of beautiful Harrods Christmas products. There are so many Harrods Christmas hampers to choose from with prices ranging from a surprisingly affordable £25 to over £2000 so there's a hamper for everyone.

I chose the gorgeous *Harrods 'The Christmas Carol' Hamper (£100) which contains selection of festive favourites and essentials as well as a luxurious festive bauble to adorn your tree. The hamper contains: Spiced Christmas Coffee, Spiced Black Tea, Spiced Plum & Fig Jam, Clementine & Sweet Orange Marmalade, Winter Spiced Biscuits, Honey & Clementine Biscuits, Brandy Butter and a Classic Christmas Pudding.

*Harrods Winter Spiced Biscuits with Golden Sparkle 

Would it really be Christmas without biscuits and sparkle? No! I love these biscuits, they're so delicious and perfect for the festive season as they are rich with mixed spices, treacle and sultanas so they are bound to be an all round favourite. As with all of the products in the hamper, the packaging is delightfully festive and would aesthetically make a exquisite festive gift.

*Harrods Honey & Clementine Biscuits with Golden Sparkle 

Again the packaging is gorgeous as are the contents; you really can't go wrong with all butter biscuits with honey and a sprinkle of glittering golden sparkle. They are perfect to share over the festive period with friends and family...or just for yourself! Both of the biscuit options within the hamper are very moreish and indulgent.

*Harrods Spiced Black Tea 

I've always been a coffee lover but this year I've been venturing into tea, particularly green, mint and herbal and iced tea but I think I have a new favourite. The tea is spiced with ginger, cloves, orange and cinnamon; it is deliciously christmassy! The flavours are a favourite of mine all year round but particularly during the colder months and it's perfect as a autumnal/winter warmer - I adore this tea, it's subtly spiced and slightly sweet.

*Harrods Christmas Spiced Coffee

Aside the hamper box, this packaging is the most stunning; the Harrods wax seal effect detail is a luxe touch! It's a medium roast Arabica coffee with flavours of cinnamon, hazelnut and chocolate - yes, yes and yes. Festive flavoured coffees are a perk of the somewhat chaotic and stressful season and this Harrods offering is definitely my new favourite. I adore the hazelnut and subtly spiced flavours but I don't personally get that much chocolate coming through. However, the coffee is delicious, indulgent and when enjoyed with oat milk, it creates a moreish and lusciously creamy coffee.

*Harrods Classic Christmas Pudding 

Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without a classic, rich Christmas pudding to finish. The Harrods Christmas pudding has been matured for 9 months and has been specifically created using the time honoured Harrods recipe so you know it's going to be sumptous and the perfect end to Christmas day.

*Harrods Brandy Butter with Courvoisier VS Cognac 

I haven't actually tried brandy butter before but this one sounds gorgeously festive with Courvoisier VS Cognac; it would be a perfect accompaniment to mince pies, Christmas pudding, bread and butter pudding, plum pudding or as a more unique addition to my warm, delicious two-tiered chocolate cake!

*Harrods Spiced Plum & Fig Jam 

I'm not a huge fan of jam; however I do love it within a victoria sponge cake and I'm definitely going to be making a christmassy victoria sponge with this uniquely flavoured jam - I think it would be a great adaption for festive gatherings! A Christmas roulade, bakewell tart or trifle would be great too.

*Harrods Clementine & Orange Marmalade 

I love marmalade on toast as a quintessential British breakfast or afternoon tea option but I haven't tried a more festive variation; this sweet and zesty marmalade contains a delicious orange liquor to add a festive touch!

Lastly within the decadent hamper is a lovely *Harrods Christmas bauble featuring the Harrods logo which would make a fantastic addition to the christmas tree this year - adding a touch of luxury to your tree or the lucky recipients.

Overall, as this is my first Harrods Christmas hamper, I can honestly say that I'm very impressed with the range, quality and number of items included in 'The Christmas Carol' hamper and it looks so stunningly festive and beautiful, it would make an indulgent and thoughtful gift for anyone! Alternatively you could host your own festive afternoon tea to share the hamper with friends and family over the festive season. I rate the majority of the items I feature on my blog but we all know what the rating for this hamper will be...★★★★★, 5/5. I just want to say thank you to the lovely people at Harrods for my gorgeous hamper!

What do you think of The Christmas Carol hamper? Have you tried any of the Harrods festive (or non-festive) hampers? 

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Cozy Autumn OOTD + Totoro

Well, let's get the idiotic, horrific, orange elephant in the room out of the way to start with - how the hell has Trump managed to win the US election *builds rocket to another planet, who's in?*. Let's have a little break from TV news channels with a cozy OOTD post and adorable Totoro!

It's been so chilly recently, it's even snowing in some areas of the UK today so cozy jumpers, knitwear, blankets and a cuddly Totoro, obviously. I've been constantly wearing the *Dresslily Jacquard Knit Sweater ($23.74) as it's so cozy, soft and it's been keeping me warm, mostly, throughout the past few freezing cold days. I love the sweater, it's so cute and quite festive but it does make me look a little yeti-ish...but it's perfect for a cozy lounge wear outfit with leggings.

Another staple for this time of the year a cute tote bag because this is the season for...shopping. The *Dresslily Striped Canvas Bag ($6.52, Blue is perfect for shopping or a an alternative to a gift bag! I love the stripes, it's spacious and unlike most tote bags, it has a zip closure.

Now for the best part of this post and hopefully as this day is pretty damn awful...Totoro's adorable face will cheer everyone up! The *Totoro Cushion ($19.15) is so cute, super soft and come on, look at that face - it will make anyone feel better! It would be a perfect and freakin' adorable christmas gift too.

Overall, I love the cozy jumper, I've been wearing it constantly and the tote bag which is perfect for the upcoming shopping and christmas season. Lastly, everyone look at Totoro's cute face and take a deep relaxing breath!

What do you think of my OOTD? Do you like Totoro? What are your autumn essentials? 

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Lush Christmas Haul

Lush is one of my favourite stores, I could spend all day in there if I could! I have loved Lush products for about 7 years now as I started liking their products in college and I have come across quite a few products that are long time favourites such as the heavenly *literally* Angels On Bare Skin Cleanser, Silky Underwear Dusting Powder (which I'm currently using and loving!), Seanik Shampoo Bar, Olive Branch Shower Gel, Intergalactic Bath Bomb, Celestial Moisturiser, Honey I Washed The Kids Soap and the Eau Roma Water as well as the Let The Good Times Roll Cleanser...I have a lot of favourites.

The Lush Christmas range contains some of my favourite products and instantly gets me in the festive mood and a spending mood. So when this generous and lovely christmas package came from the amazing people at Lush, I have to admit that I did squeal slightly when I opened it especially as I haven't actually tried Snow Fairy before *I know, that's unforgivable!*. I went to Lush last weekend and treated myself to the Lush advent calendar and it's testing my willpower to it's limits not to open it now so these christmassy offerings are definitely helping!

*Lush Snow Fairy Shower Gel (£7.95, 250ml)

I know, I know, the Lush Snow Fairy products are very popular and sought after but I have never tried it before (don't hate me!) and I don't know why I have put off trying it - it's gorgeous! The shower gel is described as 'candy sweet suds that shimmer with magic', if that's not enticing I don't know what is and it definitely smells like candy. The scent is very sweet, candy-like and edible smelling but I probably wouldn't recommend eating it; it looks cute too. The shower gel lathers SO well, you only need a tiny amount so this 250ml bottle will last me ages. The luxurious, creamy bubbles are cotton candy/candy cane scented and make showering in the freezing autumn months so much nicer! Overall rating: ★★★★★, 5/5.

After the gorgeous...ness of the Snow Fairy Shower Gel I didn't think anything could really surpass it but the Snow Fairy Body Conditioner has! I haven't tried any of the Lush Body Conditioners as to be honest they aren't as exciting as fizzy and colourful bath bombs or the gargantuan amount of bubbles from heavenly bubble bars but this body conditioner has turned out to be one of my favourite products I've tried and I'll definitely be looking out for more body conditioners to try!

*Lush Snow Fairy Body Conditioner (£13.95, 225g)

The Lush Snow Fairy Body Conditioner contains avocado and mango butter to soften the skin, together with organic jojoba and almond oils that easily absorb leaving the skin incredibly smooth and moisturised - it's basically the body version of a hair conditioner. It has the same gloriously sweet, candy-like and comforting scent as the shower gel and when used together it's double the candy and double the Lush heaven! I'm SO impressed with this body conditioner, it leaves my skin very smooth, soft and moisturised so much so that I don't even have to use a body lotion. Additionally the scent of the body conditioner lasts on my skin for a good few hours (approx. 5-6 hours on me ) and in the bathroom which is incredible! Overall rating: ★★★★★★, 6/5...yes, 6/5, it's that good.

I've tried a few Lush lip scrubs, as well as lip scrubs from other brands, and the Lush ones are definitely the most effective! I love the Popcorn Lip Scrub and this is another favourite. I have really dry lips all year round (sexy, I know) so I'm always looking for exfoliating scrubs and rich lip balms - here comes Lush to the rescue *cue super hero music*.

*Lush Sugar Plum Fairy Lip Scrub (£5.75, 25g)

Any Lush product would make a fantastic gift this christmas but I think in terms of stocking fillers, these last two products would be perfect. The Lush lip scrubs are a favourite for so many people, myself included and this christmas offering is gorgeous. The Sugar Plum fairy scent is sweet, sugary and fruity so it's a lovely christmassy scent; also the colour is so pretty too! It's a fantastic lip scrub as it is exfoliating but not too harsh and leaves my lips so smooth, soft and preps my lips perfectly for lip balm and lipstick. It's a christmas and new year party prep essential. Although if I'm honest my only problem with lip scrubs is that they are a little messy. Overall rating: ★★★★★, 5/5 (you knew everything was going to be 5/5, it's Lush!).

*Lush Elf On The Shelf Fun (£5.95, 200g)

As well as body conditioners, another Lush product range that I haven't really tried is FUN! Lush FUN is a combination of a bubble bar and playdoh, my child self would have been in love with it. The Elf On The Shelf FUN can be shaped into a cute little Santa's helper complete with stripy elf legs! There are a few variations to choose from but this one contains grapefruit and ginger oils, cinnamon leaf oil and gardenia extract; it smells subtle but lovely. I haven't tried this one yet but I have tried the blue FUN and it makes so many bubbles! I'll be making a cute little elf next month so stay tuned on my Twitter/Instagram to see how awfully I can make an elf!

Overall, I'm feeling all of the christmassy feels with the heavenly, sweet and festive products from Lush. All of the products are cruelty free as Lush is an amazing brand in terms of not just products but also ethics and all four products are suitable for vegans too. Additionally all four products that I've featured are 'self-preserving' which means that they don't contain any synthetic preservatives to keep them fresh which is fantastic. If I had to choose just one product as a favourite then it would have to be the amazing Snow Fairy Body Conditioner but I honestly couldn't recommend all of these products enough! Thank you so much to Lush for these festive treats!

Have you tried any of these products? What are your favourites from Lush? 

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