Happy New Year's Eve

This NYE we decided to have an early dinner at a local restaurant and then head home to drink prosecco with my Shih Tzu. This type of outing calls for a casual ensemble, my total bargain dusty pink jumper which I purchased from the Next sale and also from Next my new leather jacket which just about goes with everything. I thought now was the day to give the beautiful Public Desire boots their first trip outside, sadly I didn't realise this would also be their last as the heel came apart almost as soon as we left the house - beyond devastated. 

I was lucky enough to receive two Jewellery items for Christmas. The top picture is the plectrum bracelet by Laura Whitmore for Daisy Jewellery, this one has the peace sign charm (I am very fond of a peace sign, I even have one tattooed upon my bod) and the quote says 'you make loving fun' which is just about the cutest thing. 

The bottom picture is a family tree necklace which I mentioned ages ago and never for a second thought my husband would remember. It is my favourite gift of Christmas 2015. There is a tiny diamond in the three which catches the little just perfectly, the charms are all of our initials. 

Right on with the food... 

Mangetout is a local family run business in Southend, they are very well known for doing exceptionally good burgers and trying to get a table is not easy. They always have live music which, every time I have been at least, has been fantastic. The cocktail above was a festive mojito, I am lost for words to explain just how good it was. 

For main I chose the Turkey Top, this burger consists of Turkey (obviously) roast peppers and what did it for me melted brie. I chose sweet potato fries because, well lets face it, is there another option? 

My husband basically held a gun to my head and made me have dessert, this is warm cookie dough filled with Nutella, peanut butter and dreams. 

So now as I enter my food coma all that is left to say is Happy New Year to you all, I hope 2016 brings magic and joy. 

Christmas Day Outfit

Merry Christmas Everyone! 

Just a quick one from me today a little festive outfit of the day, I enjoy getting a little bit dressed up on Christmas day, even though I take my onesie in my bag for after dinner. 

I always think a duster coat can dress up any type of outfit so when this one was reduced in the Primark sale I snapped it up. I just love the detailing on this white shirt, its so pretty and feminine. 

If you haven't checked out LYDC you really need to, the quality of their bags is always so amazing and this monochrome beauty is no exception. You can enter a giveaway to win your very own one HERE

Public Desire have the most amazing selection of boots right now, these stunners are a brilliant dupe for Dior with a much more attractive price. I have the beautiful Sinead Crowe to Thank for pointing these out to me. They are so comfy and unique, they certainly add an aspect of fun to any look.

Let me know what is your OOTD for Christmas festivities! 

Winter Wonderland & Elf the Musical

Every year I take it upon myself to organise a Christmas doo for my closest girlie pals. I am such an event planner I really enjoy organising everything and trying to pick a better event each year, competing with myself. 

The girls thought I was crazy when back in February I started discussing the 2015 Christmas doo, but when we saw how quickly the tickets to Elf the musical sold out everyone was pleased that I am super organised. 

First we headed over to Meat Liquor to fill our bellies up, if you haven't been you must. It's a secret little burger bar behind Debenhams on Oxford Street, the windows are blacked out and it looks very much closed. Inside is a joyous occasion I recommend the Fried Pickles and House Grogg as a must. 

After eating ALL the food we popped along the road to Winter Wonderland, there was the most amazing atmosphere there this year. Everyone was singing and dancing and full of Christmas Spirit, we didn't really want to leave. 

The piece de resistance was ELF the musical, it was slightly different to the movie however a lot of the best lines were still included. Kimberly Walsh was very good although I personally wasn't too sure about her american accent. 

Any way lucky for you vlogged the day so if you want to see the day in all it's glory you can check it out for yourself :) 

Black Dress, Red Lips

Just a quick little outfit post from me today, perhaps some NYE inspiration who knows! 

As I get older I find one of the body parts I am more and more keen to cover up are my arms, I am sure everything was lovely and toned and then as that wedding ring slipped on my finger boom I was middle aged. So this LBD from Pretty Little Thing called out to me, the plunge neck is low enough to be a bit cheeky without being at risk of a possible nip slip.

This Butler & Wilson red lips ring is the perfect fun piece of jewellery to liven up this all black ensemble. The LYDC purse is the perfect size for an evening of drinks, big enough to fit your money, phone and makeup essentials. You will receive a 10% discount if you enter GEMMA10 at check out - Merry Christmas!! 

I am spending NYE on the sofa this year, I always feel like the night is such pressure to have a good time and totally over priced... there I am again showing my age! What are you doing this NYE? Do you have an annual tradition? Let me know! 

L'oreal True Match Genius - Review

When a product comes on the market claiming to be a 4 in 1 Primer, Foundation, Concealer and Powder it is surely worth reviewing. 

I think I was watching a Fleur DeForce video when this product entered my consciousness and I felt compelled to purchase it. In all honesty I didn't really want to like it, it seemed very self indulgent of a piece of makeup to claim that it was the answer to everything, however honestly it is pretty good. 

Although I personally wouldn't use it for any of the uses it claims to cover as my preferred choice. This product is a perfect touch up fix for during the day, save yourself carrying all four products in your bag chuck this one in and it will do the job. 

The outcome of this is definitely worth a try, good to keep in the bag but not a product to use as a stand alone. 

A Weekend in Edinburgh via My iPhone

Hello you lovely lot, this weekend I popped over to Scotland to visit a friend from school. The weekend was so relaxing I didn't want to carry my heavy blog camera about so here are a few of my favourite snaps from my phone. 

It is safe to say Scotland is bloody beautiful :) 

Mental Happy - Guest Post By Katie Ellen

Hello readers!

First of all I would like to say a huge thank you to Gemma for allowing me to be a guest writer for her blog this week. She's the best. 

My name is Katie and I am a small youtuber from Liverpool. I have spoken a number of times on my channel about the struggles myself and others have faced due to mental health. 

My story is pretty much short and sweet as I don't want to go into the details of why I suffer from depression & anxiety as it may be a little deep for our first meeting, eh? Haha! But I have suffered from these pretty much my whole life and although they cause me a never ending amount of pain - I also know that I was meant to have these problems so that I can help others and that somehow makes the struggle worth every second.

I have had the absolute pleasure of working alongside a USA based company called 'Mental Happy' for the past few weeks as they allow people just like you and me to spread joy to others & even ourselves! They sell mental happy boxes that contain gifts such as creative, positive, thoughtful & inspirational things. For example, jar of gratitude, puzzles, handmade crafts, notebooks of positivity - etc.

They have provided me with a special link that allows UK buyers to purchase a box using the cheapest postage possible (as posting from USA to UK can be super pricey!) However, that isn't the only thing they done for me. They also gave me a direct PayPal link to that gives you a 25% discount & a special free item included within the box!

Here is the PayPal link:
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=TA3XTG5DWQAZN

And if you wish to check out their website then you can do so here: https://www.mentalhappy.com/

Through ordering one of these you can also be entered into a draw where you could be picked to be featured on their website to share your story with mental health to help and inspire others who may be struggling.

Thank you so much for taking your time to read this & again thank you to Gemma for your never ending kindness!

Don't forget to subscribe to Katie's YouTube Channel

Neptune Jewellery

One of the things I absolutely love about Instagram is finding smaller brands which you otherwise wouldn't have come across. Neptune is a small online Jewellery shop based in the UK which specialises in gemstone and crystal necklaces. As soon as I saw the antique gold chains I couldn't resist, and certainly wasn't disappointed. 

These pieces are totally versatile, you can wear them with a chunky Christmas knit to add a bit of sparkle or a plunge neck top and disco pants ready to party. With prices starting at just £5 you will be amazed at the quality of the pieces and the love which each purchase is handmade or lovingly sourced. 

If you are looking for a last minute unique piece of jewellery for that final Christmas gift look no further than Neptune. Lucky for you I have a 10% discount code which will run until Christmas day enter GEMMA10 at the checkout!! 

Head over to Neptune's Instagram page!! 

A special Thank You to my lovely model Alexandra Mersey. 

One Bag Three Styles (And Very Special Giveaway)

The beautiful ladies over at LYDC contacted me to see if I would be up for a challenge, which of course I was. One bag two styles day to night, that's easy I thought I will give them three!!

Outfit One - Daytime Casual 

I promise I am much happier about this outfit than I look, you know me ever the photogenic one ... not. Because this bag is super eye-catching you have to be very serious about your casual look, you DO NOT want people to mistake you for someone taking part in the walk of shame. Everything about this look has been done on purpose. Hair up in a messy bun, a natural makeup look which screams shopping day and converse of course the comfiest of casual footwear. This ASOS lace up jumper dress can totally be dressed up or down too so by pairing it with turned up skinnies there is no doubt that today I am just chilling.  

Outfit Two - Daytime Smart

Look two is daytime but with somewhere to go. You might be meeting the girls for lunch or popping into town for a meeting, you can totally rock a sequin mermaid bag yes you can! I have kept the dress very simple, a black t shirt dress is the most versatile piece of clothing, you can totally dress this how you want to. The suede jacket keeps it laid back and the boots say 'hello' us and the bag have got this!  

Day Three - Evening

By tucking in the strap and making this bag a clutch there is no doubt that this sparkly joy giver is an evening bag. The Make up has switched itself up a voltage, smokey eye and a red lip means business. All back everything is my favourite party look, not too much detail as the bag is the star of this show but a sexy lace up heel and a pop of bra adds a little edge to the skirt and top combination. 

LYDC GIVEAWAY

Here is your chance to win your very own LYDC bag we have two for you to choose from so please leave me a comment stating which bag you would love to win when entering. The winner will be chosen on the 2nd of January, I can't think of a better way to beat the January blues can you? 

And don't forget you can use GEMMA10 for a 10% Discount

a Rafflecopter giveaway

ASOS Party Picks

Its the most wonderful time of the year! 

It's the time you can wear so much sequins and glitter that you give yourself a headache and there is nothing anyone can do about it, if someone so much as rolls an eye at your sparkles BAH HUMBUG what a bloody grinch! 

So I for one definitely intend on taking full advantage of this festive time and let my inner magpie go batshit crazy! I have spent a far bit of time trawling through the pages of ASOS to bring to you what I think is the best glitzy party options, and aren't we lucky that for just £10 a year ASOS provides next day delivery such a bargain! 

HELIUM Heeled Sandals

Floral Jacquard Culotte

Iridescent Sparkle Long Sleeve Top

Mango Pleated Midi Skirt

Embellished Grid Dress

ALDO Box Clutch with YAY Embellishment

HUMID Caged Heeled Sandals

Oversized Kaftan Dress

Backless Jumpsuit

Mini Skirt with Holographic Discs

Sequin Stripe Pussy Bow Blouse

PaperDolls Statement Collar 

Zara Leopard Print Boots

If you happen to have read my Christmas wish list post you will know that I am not a patient person!

I have mentioned (probably quite a few times) that my number one style icon is Amy of TheLittleMagpie.com, she always looks so pulled together with minimal effort and maximum WOW and there is where I first decided I needed leopard print boots. 

Usually I wouldn't be one for a kitten heel, a friend of mine's little sister once told me that kitten heels made her feel sick and I vowed never to touch them again. However what is good enough for Amy is good enough for me. I actually think the heel on these boots keeps them looking grown up and sophisticated, with any animal print you run the risk of looking a bit, well, tacky.... and no one wants that! 

I recently visited the Forest restaurant with Alex and paired these boots with a Motel navy pinafore dress and no joke I was stopped four times in the street by people wanting to know where I got my shoes, I just love it when that happens. 

These little beauts will set you back £69.99 which isn't the cheapest, but they are real leather and will never go out of style. So if you are in the market for some like these I would totally recommend checking them out. They are bound to be gracing these pages A LOT. 

Dinner @ Forest on the Roof

On Friday night I had dinner in a restaurant which can only be described as a santa's grotto for adults. At the very top of Selfridges is this years seasonal pop up restaurant and bar, Forest on the Roof. After making our way to the top of Selfridges we was told we needed to go back down to fragrance to take the express lift up to the restaurant, so maybe take note if you are planning a visit. 

When the lift doors opened we were transported to most magically festive setting. Everyone was smiling, staff and customers, it's difficult not to with that many fairy lights around. 

Jumper & Boots: Zara Pinafore Dress: Motel Shirt: ASOS

It wasn't at all chilly in the restaurant itself however they had you covered just in case, on the back of each chair was a snuggly blanket for you to take advantage of. 

Black Forest, Spicy Cane & Forest Tonic Cocktails

Dry ages burger & Russet apple slaw

Roast Banham chicken, truffle green beans & New Forest mushrooms

Baked game meatballs & winter vegetable orzo

Gingerbread Choctai

Both the food and drinks were delicious, there isn't a great deal of choice on the menu but this is quite common of popup's. Along with our mains we ordered two lots of sides, truffle chips and sweet potato tartiflette which were both to die for. I would definitely recommend this restaurant, it would be the perfect first date setting. The service was very attentive and friendly which makes all the difference. 

Thank You Forest on the Roof for having us! 

Handbag Heaven

I am not someone who needs more handbags, but really I feel like when it comes to hand bags the word need shouldn't even be mentioned. Ok we all obviously need handbags to carry our stuff about but picking a handbag is like picking a partner they need to be dependable but you also need to have that passion, you need to want them... right? 

So this week I have been lucky enough to browse through the LYDC Autumn/Winter 2015 collection. LYDC is a brand with something to temp every woman on the planet, they have such a wide variety of styles I dare you not to find a piece you love.

My Autumn/Winter 2015 Wish List

1. Metallic Clutch - The perfect christmas party bag, the black detailing along the top caught my eye against the contrasting silver. Definitely a go with everything kind of clutch. 

2. Embellished Cross Body Bag - The detailing on this bag is stunning, from the embellishment on the front to the quilted texture and the chain strap. I can imagine pairing this bag with a simple jeans and top outfit and it really bringing the whole thing together. 

3. Leopard Cross Body Bag - I love the print on this bag, when you are feeling a little bit feisty animal print really is the only print you need. 

4. Colour Contrast Cross Body Bag - The first thing I thought of when I spotted this bag was how the shape of it reminds me of the Chloe Drew bag. The monochrome colours are perfect for the Autumn/Winter Season and the gold detailing really gives this bag that something extra. 

5. Winter Floral Grab Bag - I adore the winter floral print on this bag, it is very sophisticated. The navy colour makes it very versatile and easy to pair with all styles of outfit from shopping to dinner and a show. 

6. Snakeskin Cross Body Bag - Snakeskin is definitely my texture of the moment, I love how it adds to the beautiful nude colour of this bag. If I was to style this I would leave it long on my shoulder with a black dress and a fur coat, perfect for the winter months. 

7. Tartan Chain Shopper - The tartan gives this black shopper an extra edge, perfect to express your own style while rocking that office ensemble. 

8. Lazer Cut Shoulder Bag - Even though the pastel shade may seem more suitable for spring (this bag comes in other colours by the way) I feel like this is such an all year round bag. The Lazer cut outs make this one unique. 

9. Faux Fur Shoulder Bag - What is winter without faux fur? The deep purple is also perfect for the festive months as it goes with everything!! 

So what is on your Autumn/Winter wishlist? 

The Autumn/Winter collection will go live on the LYDC website from MONDAY so make sure to check them out, enter GEMMA10 at checkout for a 10% discount... you are welcome!!! 

Two Faced Liquified Long Wear Lipstick

Last week I ordered a gorgeous blue pinafore dress from Motel (more on that later) when it arrived I was surprised to find a sample enclosed of the Two Faced Liquid Lipstick in the shade Melted Peony. It was a funny coincidence as I had earlier that day been telling my friend Katie that I had never used a liquid lipstick - Thank You makeup God's! 

I am seriously impressed with this product it feels extremely hydrating on the lips and currently my lips are feeling a bit in need of extra help due to the weather. The stay power is amazing too which is one of the main things I look for with a lip product. The colour I received was melted peony which is a bright creamy pink colour, I can see myself wearing this a lot in the spring months. 

If like Ralph you want to get your hands on a melted lipstick you can do so here

Faking it

It is fair to say that I agree with my mum when she says I am too old for a nose piercing, and honestly even being a human with seven tattoos and a 6mm stretched earlobe the thought of an actual piercing is not a happy one. However, Jess from Made in Chelsea has been rocking the old septum ring just lately and I feel like I want the option without the pain. This is where ASOS comes in (seriously do I shop anywhere else) 

These little clips totally do the job, and had a few of you fooled over on my Instagram (sorry about that hehe) £12 for three isn't bad and you get silver, gold and rose gold, so you are covered. I have worn them throughout the day and can report back that they are very comfy and I soon forgot I even had it in to be honest. 

What do you think? Would you fake it or are you an all or nothing kinda gal? 

The type of shoes you make plans for

Now and again a pair of shoes come into your life that you want to make plans for, which is exactly what happened when I stumbled across these beauties on the new in section of ASOS.

They are certainly no average autumn heels, blue snakeskin with a pom pom on top just like the cherry on top of a cake! I am loving the pointed toe at the moment and the triangle shaped block heel looks a bit different as well as providing a comfortable height. 

How would you style these wonders?