Blogmas Day 13- My top 10 of 2014

As we are coming to the end of 2014, I thought I would look back on some of my favourite things of this year, including books, TV, music and youtubers. These are not necessarily new releases for 2014, just things that I have discovered which I have been enjoying for the past year...

Books

Gone Girl- Gillian Flynn

Definitely by far one of the most gripping and exciting books I have ever read, Gone Girl tells the story of a husband whose wife disappears on her fifth wedding anniversary, leaving behind no clues. It was so successful that it was made into a film, starring Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike, and although the ending could have been slightly better, the overall story was tense, thrilling and mysterious.

The Lovely Bones- Alice Sebold

I chose to study this as one of my texts for my English Literature A Level, having never read it before, and I instantly loved it. Although it is quite dark and gruesome in places, the overall plot is actually quite uplifting and hopeful, despite it being the story of a 14 year old girl who is murdered by her neighbour. It is a really easy read, as well as being compelling and moving. 

We are All Completely Beside Ourselves- Karen Joy Fowler

This is not normally my usual genre of book to read, however due to the secretive plot line, the message and true storyline is only revealed about 70 pages in, with a huge spoiler. It is a very thought-provoking novel, leaving you questioning society and life in general. Not a light-hearted read, yet definitely an inspiring one. 

TV Programmes

The Missing

Words cannot describe how hooked I am on this BBC series that concludes this Tuesday. It tells the story of a British couple, whose 5 year old son goes missing whilst on holiday in France in 2006. It flits between then and present day, when the case is reopened, due to Tony, the father, discovering a vital clue. It is extremely addictive, often ending on a cliffhanger, leaving me desperate to watch the next episode. I can't wait for the conclusion this week and hopefully discover what happened to the missing child. If you liked Broadchurch, then you would love this. 

Gossip Girl
Although this is a relatively old series now, I ended up deciding to watch it on Netflix one day and instantly loved it. Following the fictional lives of a group of friends on New York's Upper East Side, it is quite complicated and dark in places, always leaving you wanting more. You will end up shipping all of the characters(especially Chuck and Blair), and it is definitely a series to keep you occupied with. 

Music

Ed Sheeran
I must admit I never used to be much of a fan of Ed Sheeran, yet I have completely fell in love with him and his new album in the past few months. My favourites of the new album X are I'm A Mess, Thinking out Loud and Photograph, although I love the whole album, and am now desperate to see him in concert. 

 Sam Smith
The British male musicians are seriously on form this year, as Sam Smith's album is just as good as Ed Sheeran's. A relatively new talent this year, he has catapulted into the charts with brilliant hits, flying the flag for British music. His album is relaxing and soulful, with my favourite songs being Life Support, Like I Can and I'm Not the Only One.

Films

Frozen
I think the whole world and his dog has either heard about or watched Frozen, and despite being released a year ago, people are still talking about it. I know that if I was 5 years old again, my Christmas list would be full of Frozen Merchandise, as it is the ultimate Disney film, with great songs and characters that everyone seems to love. 

Maleficent 
Another Disney film that I thoroughly enjoyed this year was Maleficent, starring the beautiful Angelina Jolie. It creates a whole new concept to the popular tale of Sleeping Beauty, focusing on the perspective of the villainous Maleficent, who may not be as evil as you think. Definitely one to check out if you are a massive Disney fan like myself.

Youtubers

Dan and Phil
Quite random, yet something that I have completely fallen in love with these past months is watching Danisnotonfire and AmazingPhil videos. They are extremely funny, as well as very relatable, as every video they do is something that I can relate to. I have recently started watching their gaming videos(something that I never thought I would do) and I am in fits of laughter watching them play Sims 4 and Five Nights at Freddy's. I can't wait to see more of them in 2015. 

What have been your Top 10 things this year?

Megan x

Blogmas Day 12- Sleek Face Form Palette

 I have been after a decent contour kit for a while now, as although I own a few bronzers, they are not suited for contouring, more to add a subtle warmth to the face. As I was after a drugstore version, I decided to pick up the Sleek Face Form Contouring and Blush Palette, which is available in the shades "fair", "light", "medium" and "dark". I went for the "light" option, which comes with a powder bronzer, highlight and rose gold blush, to subtly define the face, giving that highly coveted Kim Kardashian look. 

This is the perfect little kit for all your contouring needs, being small and compact enough to carry around in your handbag, as well as boasting a pretty decent sized mirror. The powders are extremely well pigmented, only a slight dab being enough to add enough of the product to your face. I use either my Real Techniques 'Contour Brush', or an angled face brush to lightly apply the bronzer into the hollows of my cheeks, tapping the excess of on the back of my hand before applying to my face. As the bronzer isn't too orange toned, it creates the appearance of a shadow, rather than looking muddy.

Once I have applied the contour shade, I then add some colour with the Rose Gold blush, which is a very pretty medium toned pink, which adds some warmth to the face due to the gold shimmer running throughout. I then lightly sweep some of the champagne toned highlighter to the tops of my cheekbones and underneath the brow bone, adding a beautiful 'lit from within' glow.

Overall, this palette is the perfect kit if you are only just getting in to contouring your face, or are simply after a more budget friendly product. I would highly recommend it for giving the appearance of a defined, sculpted face.

Megan x

Blogmas Day 11- Things I'd tell my younger self

As I turned 18 the other day, I thought I would share a list of 18 things which I have learnt over the years, and which I would also tell my younger self.

Have Confidence in yourself, otherwise no one else will

Don't stress over the small stuff, sometimes life is hard, yet not everything is worth stressing over. 

It's okay to cry, letting it out will make you feel better, as well as allowing time to heal the pain

Work Hard, Play Hard, yes it is important to do well at school, but allow time to socialise too
  
It doesn't matter what other people think, you are your own individual person, no one else can tell you how to live your life

Grab Opportunities whilst they are there, otherwise you will only regret what could have been

Go with your gut instinct, it will nearly always be right

Look after your skin whilst you are young, it will be worth it in the end

 Chill out and relax sometimes

Spend time with your family, they will always be there for you no matter what , so respect that

Everything happens for a reason 

Speak up more as if you don't say it no one else will

Always think positive, life is too short to dwell on the bad/negative things

Live everyday as though it is your last

Laugh everyday, it is good for the soul and life will be much more fun

Ask for help, you are not a failure if you are struggling with anything and it will be worth it in the long run

Don't take Art as an A-Level, it will take up all of your time, and isn't worth it 

Revise for your subjects as you go along, it will make revising for A-Levels much easier and more successful

Megan x

 

Blogmas Day 10- Stocking Filler Gift Guide

 
Time for my fourth and final gift guide for 2014, and this one is dedicated to Stocking Fillers, costing £15 and under.  Rather than talking individually about each item as I have done previously, I thought I would split these gift ideas into categories, giving an overview of the selection shown here. So without further ado, let's get started...

Beauty Lovers 

There is always a huge selection of beauty stocking fillers available every Christmas, and this year is no exception. Stocking fillers are the perfect opportunity to try out some new beauty products, as they often come in mini forms and at a much cheaper price. I have included the Balmi Raspberry Lip Balm, Nails inc Holiday Edition Collection, The Body Shop Glazed Apple Treat Box, and Tanya Burr lipgloss in Mistletoe Kisses. 

 Foodies

You can never go wrong with food or drink festive gifts as a stocking filler, after all Christmas is the time for indulgence.  Chocolate is a very popular gift, so this mini stocking filled with various chocolate treats from Hotel Chocolat is a super cute present for a chocoholic. An alternative to a standard bottle of wine, this mulled wine mix transforms wine into a spiced warming beverage perfect for cold winter nights. If alcohol is not your thing, this drinking fudge set, containing 6 sachets of various flavoured fudge, a latte glass and marshmallows would be perfect for everyone to enjoy. Lastly, this Jamie Oliver Comfort Food recipe book is sure to contain recipes for the best winter food for cosy nights in.

Winter Warmers 

I think winter accessories are always a staple stocking filler, whether it is a hat, scarf, gloves etc. These grey doughnut socks from River Island are cute and fun, perfect for keeping your feet warm during winter. Bobble hats are the perfect winter accessory, and this pretty pink and grey one would keep you cute and cosy. 

Miscellaneous 

I love receiving random gifts in my stocking, as they are normally things you wouldn't buy for yourself. For jotting down all your ideas, lists etc, this personalised notebook is great for all your bright ideas. I love these canvas pouches from Alphabet Bags, with this 'Bits & Bobs' one great for keeping handbag essentials together.  A gift that I loved as soon as I spotted it is this Little Bag of Happiness, containing objects to make you happy, such as a coin so you are never completely broke.  A gift that would suit any social media addict, this social photography book is a guide for taking the best instagram snaps. There is music for everyone to enjoy, so a CD is an easy gift to buy. Top of my music wishlist is Ed Sheeran "Multiply". Lastly, something that I have actually received before is this 5 year journal, in which there is a question for every day of the year, and you answer over 5 years, comparing your answers each year.

What is your favourite type of gift to receive in your stocking?

Megan x 

Blogmas Day 9- What I got for my Birthday

 So yesterday, the 8th of December, was my 18th birthday, and I celebrated over the whole weekend with my family and friends. As turning 18 is quite a special birthday in the UK, I received quite a lot of lovely presents from all my relatives, which I thought I would share on here. As I am going to New York next week, I also received spending money, as well as these gifts. I am in no means showing off with this post, just sharing some of the beautiful gifts I have received.

I receive clothes every year for my birthday, and this year was no different. I spotted this dinosaur printed t-shirt in River Island ages ago, and my Mum remembered I liked it so decided to buy it as a little present. I also loved this Blue Polar Bear jumper from New Look, as it is would keep me lovely and cosy in the winter, and is perfect for taking to New York. This tartan scarf(New York) and cosy black gloves(Boots) that I also received will be coming with me to New York as well.

I love snuggling up in a throw in Winter, as they are so warm and cosy. This light grey one is super soft, with one side fleece and the other a softer material, perfect for winter nights in by the fire. To keep me entertained on these winter nights, I also received the new Shopaholic Book "Shopaholic to the Stars" which I am very excited to start reading as I loved all of the others. One of my favourite Disney films ever is The Beauty and the Beast, but I didn't have it on DVD until now, so I can't wait to watch it again. One of the presents my sister got for me is the new One Direction CD "Four" which I am listening to as I write this, and I am loving it!

As a beauty lover, I received a fair few beauty gifts, including this beautiful Smashbox Full Exposure Palette. It has 7 shimmer and 7 matte shades, and is perfect for creating either a day or night makeup look. As well as the CD, my sister also bought me 3 little goodies from Lush. She got me the Snow Angel and Melting Snowman Bath Melt, as well as the Butterball Bath Bomb, all of which I am very excited to use. As my birthday is close to Christmas, I always end up receiving one of the numerous Christmas beauty gifts on offer, and this year was no exception. The Benefit "Cheeky Sweet Spot" blush palette, and the Soap & Glory Glamour Push Gift Set were on my wishlist, as was the OPI Coca-Cola collection, which I also received.

Cadbury is one of my favourite brands of chocolate, so as a little present from my brother, I received the Winter Wonderland Festive Chocolate Bar. A completely random gift, but one that I absolutely love is this Cake Pop making kit, which is actually Harry Potter themed, so you can create cake pops adorned with broomsticks and wizard hats. As I am a massive Harry Potter fan, I can't wait to have a chilled out Sunday afternoon making these.

 
These are probably the most special gifts I received for my birthday, as a lot of thought was put into them. I love this 100 year diary "My life story" as you can document your whole life to look back on in years to come. My Mum started this for me, filling in from when she was pregnant with me in 1996, up until I was about 7 years old, as it is the things that I can't really remember. I am really looking forward to filling the rest of this in and treasuring it forever. My parents also bought me this beautiful Swarovski Stardust bracelet, which can be worn doubled up on the wrist as a statement, sparkling piece of jewellery. Lastly, ever since the first time I visited a Jo Malone counter, the English Pear and Freesia scent has been my favourite, so I received the fragrance and hand/body wash in the scent. It is my first Jo Malone product, and I have a feeling it will become my signature scent. 

I hope you enjoying reading about what I received for my birthday this year, these are one of my favourite posts to read as I love seeing what others receive for their special day

Megan x

Blogmas Day 7- Party OOTD

Black Jumpsuit-New Look

Shoes- New Look

Earrings-New Look

As it is my 18th birthday tomorrow, we threw a little party at my house to celebrate. I was on the hunt for the perfect party outfit, and fell in love with this black, wrap front jumpsuit, which is dressy but also super comfortable. I paired it with some strappy, peep-toe heels and statement earrings, to add a little extra sparkle and glamour.

Megan x

Blogmas Day 6- Luxury Beauty Gift Guide

Part 3 of my gift guide series and I have to say it is definitely my favourite so far. There is something special about receiving luxury beauty gifts at Christmas from the elegant packaging to the extra sparkle that comes with a gift like these. Christmas is the perfect excuse to also try out some of the more expensive products that you wouldn't necessarily buy for yourself. 

Ambre Vanille Luxe Quartet- Laura Mercier

I love all of the Laura Mercier bath and body products, as they look so luxurious. This gift set includes four products from the Ambre Vanille scented range, with a shimmer body mist, souffle body cream, souffle honey bath and souffle scrub. The super sweet scent of amber and vanilla, as well as almond, brown sugar, sandalwood and coconut is also an extra indulgent element. 

Travel Brush Set- Bobbi Brown

Bobbi Brown brushes have an amazing reputation throughout the blogging world, so when I saw it on the selfridges website, I knew I had to include it in this category. There are 8 brushes in total(one double ended), including the face blender, sheer powder brush and eye blender. As they are travel sized they are perfect for applying makeup on the go, as well as fitting in a handy black case. 

Cologne Collection- Jo Malone

I don't think I have ever seen a more perfect gift as this 5- piece collection of Jo Malone's most-loved fragrances. Containing miniature versions of Lime Basil & Mandarin, Blackberry & Bay, Peony & Blush Suede, Amber & Lavender and Wood Sage & Sea Salt, it is perfect for trying out some of the fragrances on offer to find your favourite. 

Piece de Resistance- Ciate

Ideal for any nail polish lover, this set from Ciate contains a colour for every season. It includes 12 full sized paint pot shades in the colours Love Letter, Pepperminty, Play date, Iced Frappe and Beach Melba to name but a few, in a elegant black case.

Seductive Rose Eye Colour Quad- Tom Ford

I have had my eye on these eyeshadow quads from Tom Ford for ages now, yet it is not the sort of thing I would go out and buy myself. However, it is the ideal gift to include on your Christmas list to receive as a gift, as it is perfect to create many different eye looks, especially with many parties occurring at this time of year. 

The Dolce Vita Look Gift Box- Charlotte Tilbury

I think the whole beauty blogger community has become obsessed with Charlotte Tilbury recently, as the products are all of super high quality, as well as being extremely luxurious with the Rose Gold packing. This gift set contains 7 makeup products and a makeup bag to achieve the 'Dolce Vita' look, including the extremely popular lip cheat lip liner in 'Pillowtalk' and 'The Dolce Vita' eyeshadow palette.

Amazing Face Collection- Emma Hardie

From the range that includes the ever popular moringa cleansing balm, this gift set from Emma Hardie contains everything to treat skin, making it appear younger and healthier. With a treatment cream, facial exfoliater, 

 night cream and eye cream, it is the perfect luxurious skincare set.

Stocking Fillers Collection-Molton Brown

Containing 12 mini body washes, this is a great gift to split between numerous people as a stocking filler. Including the scents Coco & Sandalwood, Gingerlily, Pink Pepperpad and Japanese Orange, they are also travel friendly, perfect for taking on holiday, or for adding a little extra sparkle at Christmas. 

Are any of these on you Christmas list?

Megan x