From the moment I wake up...

I've been planning something beauty related on this little corner of the internet for a while, and after tidying up my (small but reliable) make up collection a little and falling into a comfy face cleansing routine (check me out) I finally feel happy to share it all with you! Don't get me wrong- I am still a real make up novice, but with the help of Youtube (and genuinely taking notes while watching videos- not proud) I'm getting there, so please bare with me- and enjoy... Skin care
Until about 6 months ago, my idea of a face cleansing routine was reaching for my Boots-on-offer-wipes and giving my face a once over. Done. Finito. Before you considering banishing me to skincare jail- this is fortunately, no more (unless I'm really really sleepy). For Christmas, I was lucky enough to receive the Foamingly Clean facial wash and Total Moisture moisturiser from the amazing Benefit range and I haven't looked back. The wash literally makes my skin squeaky clean (I usually finish my eyes with some Simple eye make up remover) and the moisturiser makes my face soft as a baby's bottom- and apparently incredibly shiny- which I'm guessing is a good thing. Additionally I've started using Estee Lauder's Advanced Eye Repair- which officially allows me to spend all night surfing the web/cutting some shapes/reading under the covers without anyone knowing (dark circles be gone). I also use this Palmer's body butter for some post-bath pampering/general care, which is again pretty lovely.
It's Pamper Time
I can't lie. I'm poor at pampering. Forget cucumber eyes, whale music and bubble baths which look like something from a film- I usually end up falling asleep. My idea of pampering is a quick pink bath and hopping into my pjs. Pretty much everything from Lush is perfect for a quick luxury and natural fix, and I particularly love this Think Pink one (although I believe this one was an Easter exclusive, the yellow version is still available online here).
Perfume: Fresh as a daisy
Ever since realising Impluse sprays probably don't constitute as an appropriate substitute for perfume, I've been wearing Marc Jacobs' Daisy. Or anything by him for a matter of fact. Having a pretty strong collection of Daisy bottles (yup, they are just a few of my collection), Dot, Lola and Eau So Fresh next to my bed- I'm pretty sure this classes as a signature fragrance- and I love it (and the bottles, obviously).
Brushes: Painting it on
It's only recently that I've started using brushes for foundation application. The last time I'd used a paintbrush this seriously was during my A Level art, or in primary school with the huge blobbing brush. However, the Real Techniques brushes are something else (really Liv? Late to the party are we?) At the moment I use the Stippling brush, Blush brush and Foundation brush and all have made such a difference to my application, and my skin looks a little perkier for it.
Gettin' Lippy
Although my lip collection is slightly ridiculous (how many shades of red does one really need?) the amount of use they all get is probably justified. My big Chanel 'purchase' in Paris- was in fact this lipstick (it was the only thing in budget) and it really is, wonderful (despite the shop assistant telling me 'it's not quite applied like that' when I tried to demonstrate). The above lipsticks are my absolute go-to's and include; Kate Moss for Rimmel Shade 107, Chanel Rouge Allure Passion, Kate Moss for Rimmel Shade 01, Rimmel Moisture Renew and Topshop Mischief (but I love most of their red ones, as I'm not sure this is still available).
Nailin' It
When I have the time and know I won't be moving for at least an hour, I like to give my nails a bit of a 'do. These sets of two are the pairs I usually go to for some pretty swish effects and know will probably last longer than a couple of days. My top picks are Essie in Midnight Cami (with Topshop's Dark Knight on top), Barry M's Red Glitter Polish with the Red Gelly Nail Paint and for nudes Estee Lauder's Ballerina Pink and Nudite.
Ace of face
Unlie most girls, I have one make up look. This is the same when I'm working from home, in meetings all day, going out to THE party of the year (still waiting on that invite) or on a date night. It's boring- but for me it's fail safe. Saying that I've recently branched out to the world of the smokey eye- which has proved successful, so maybe this is the start of some crazy make up endeavors. Anyway- the things I use when I'm not being a make up maverick are; Rimmel Fix and Perfect Primer (which is so moisturising), Estee Lauder Double Wear (give me the palest you got), Frat Boy by The Balm, Supercat Liquid Liner by Soap and Glory, No7 Beautiful Brows Pencil, Lord & Berry kohl liner and whichever mascara is handy (at present this is Volume Millions Lashes and Telescopic Lashes).

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Seated here by my side, the day blurs into the night.

(Jacket: Mama P's, Dress: River Island (here), Basket: Columbia Road Flower Market, Shoes: Vintage)
If there was one thing that was said more than anything during a recent trip to Cambridge with Joe, it was 'bikes'. Everywhere. From stepping off of the train from the big smoke, the ratio of pedestrians to cycles changed dramatically- and it seemed we'd stepped back to a more simple time; where wicker basket clad bikes filled with fresh blooms was the norm, and the newest Fiat was something of the near future. In fact, the whole city oozed this beautiful other worldliness. Having briefly visited the city late last year for a talk at the university, it was lovely to experience the city in a more relaxed, and slightly warmer environment.

After floating around the city centre, popping into the infamous Fudge Kitchen for a sugary fix and heading to my favourite Jamie's Italian for lunch we worked off a hearty meal by an explore around the backs and a punt along the river, just before the rain began to fall. It was amazing to get to know a little more about the city simply via a relaxing boat ride- but after drifting past The Anchor (apparently the venue for the first ever Pink Floyd gig) and Magdalene College (which amazingly only began accepting women in the late '80s) I felt like I'd had a real locals insight to this wonderful city.
For the trip I opted for something suitably ladylike and perhaps a little twee, in the shape of this candy cane pastel striped dress- something I'd spotted in Miss Vogue on the one and only Cara D; which to me- sold it. Teamed with a hand me down denim jacket for warmth- along with my trusty vintage pumps and a wicker basket bag- to store train reading material, journey treats and my trusty camera- it made for a pretty classic and quintessentially British combination.
You may have also spotted a certain 'zine poking out of my basket- which goes by the name of Buttercup. Created by the beautiful (and equally as talented) Paige Calvert- Buttercup is a nostalgic fan zine, built upon childhood memories, the light hearted feeling of youth- and of course filled with darling photographs, and a dress up dolly (didn't you used to love them?) You can pick up this pretty little treat over at her shop- the perfect way to while away a warm afternoon.

and here's what I wore...

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We won't let our worries dictate who we are

(Hat: American Apparel, Top: Zara, Jumpsuit: C/O Miss Patina, Shoes: C/O TK Maxx, Watch: C/O Olivia Burton, Sunglasses: Free People)
If there's one thing I like more than anything during Spring, it's the hazy golden evenings. They ooze a charm that makes even the Southeastern commuter train seem magical (and trust me, magical is not a describe to describe that journey) and waiting for the bus, seem almost like a confusing luxury. It also makes for evenings spent in the garden, laptop free and finally getting around to reading books that can only possibly be read in the late evening sunshine.

This outfit is probably consistent of a few of my current 'Spring staples'- i.e anything that swishes, and something daft to sit atop my head. Instead of things getting seasonally shorter, I appear to be wearing things that are probably too long to be deemed appropriate, but am embracing this Kate Bush spin my wardrobe is currently taking. This Miss Patina jumpsuit is the perfect remedy for all of my boogie night needs (it's called the 'I got you babe' jumpsuit- need I say more?), and teamed with this suitably floaty Zara top (a top that, once put on completely justifies lots of expressive shoulder movement) makes for a combination I am pretty taken by. I also paired them with these TK Maxx heels which can only be described as AWESOME- and although as a little more ladylike than my usual choice of footwear (my current footwear phrasing of choice is 'DISCO BOOTS' and anything that makes me look like a flowerpot is good) make me feel sassy (and svelte at that).

Additionally, I also went and accessorized- I know, hold the phone! This beautiful new time piece (or watch to you and I) is from Olivia Burton, and is the perfect way of adding a classic spin on an otherwise pretty plain outfit, or y'know just being on time. It has the most beautiful delicate face detail, is small enough to wear day to day and is a beautiful nude shade, which means I can snazz it up with pretty much everything or layer it with other bracelets- good 'eh. Also, I'm still trying to establish whether this is the most unattractive angle (''oh hey, here I am just being whimsy, squatting in the grass'') or whether I have the whole flower power daffodil fairy thing down to a tee, or whether I just got the wrong end of the 'squat challenge' stick- either way let's appreciate the shapes I can cut in heels!

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Where Olivia, erm, ate burgers?

Until about 2011, I didn't like burgers. I know, I know. WHAT DID I EVEN EAT (Pizza Express FYI). Maybe I saw it as a Rachel from Friends trifle situation, maybe I thought it as an over ambitious sandwich- but either way, I was missing out. But fear not, nowadays I completely relish a good burger (pun definitely intended) and have since taken full advantage of the 'burger trend' in our fair capital (and of course, Instagrammed along the way), and been doing the rounds at some of the beefiest hang outs (not sure what that means either) and even included one of my favourite's in France too, flash 'eh!
Honest Burgers
If I ever want a burger, ever this is where I will go. For 10 British pounds you can pick up an amazing burger (with only the finest meat from Ginger Pig- ooer), rosemary chips that you will inhale (not literally) and homemade lemonade (it comes in a jar, too)! Like most ickle burger places, they don't take bookings- so get there early. So. Much. Good.
Patty & Bun
Maybe it's a rosemary chips thing (it definitely is) but this place is like the dirty honest burger. It's a little juicier, a lotta messier (the napkins on the table are there for a reason, folks) and a hella good. Joe and I left on what can only be described as a 'burger high', plus they even do chicken wings- what mavericks.
Byron/GBK
''Omgz you included a chain. How mainstream.'' Whatever- no matter where I am in the country, I will (nearly) always be able to find a GBK or in London, a Byron. Byron were the first burgers to get me, erm, 'in to' burgers- and they're bloody great. Plus, unlike a lot of burger joints, do deserts- and who can resist s 'shake 'n' brownie after a slap up?
Blend
Most people go to Paris for frois gras/snails/frogs legs (or so I've heard). Joe and I go for burgers. After spotting this hang out on Rachel Khoo's blog we took note and headed early. Before about 10 minutes it was full, and it was awesome. The waiters speak everything burger, and although there's no Heinz ketchup, it's deliciousio.
Bukowski
Hidden on Shoreditchs Boxpark, this little hangout is perfect for a sunny day- you can enjoy a burger OUTSIDE. It's the future. Although the burgers are a bit peppery (all good fo' you condiment kids) they're pretty good, so if you're in the area, and the weather is grand- head here.
BURGER PLACES I HAVEN'T TRIED BUT HAVE HEARD GOOD THINGS ABOUT:
- Meat Liquor/Meat Market (the fact I haven't been is probably burger blesphemy)
- Dirty Burger (near my favourite chicken restaurant, Chicken Shop)
- Lucky Chip (one day I will get a table at the Sebright Arms)
- Tommi's Burger Joint
- Burger and Lobster

Bon appetit! Other burger recommendations on a postcard!

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I've got my giant hit discothèque album, I empty a bottle and I feel a bit free

(Hat: Topshop, Shirt: C/O Ever Ours, Skirt: MINKPINK (similar here), Necklace: C/O Millie 'n' Mae, Shoes: C/O Linzi) Although the temptation to stay curled up among my pillows, cocooned in my duvet and hanging out with Ruth and Eamonn (or, y'know Holly and Phil dependent on which day it is) is often more than tempting during a rare free day off, most of the time, in reality- my favourite way to spend a bit of spare time is exploring the city (usually London)- especially when you have a list as long as your arm of 'places I must visit'.

With that in mind, and the plain fact that pancakes simply won't eat themselves- Jazmine and I started the afternoon with a visit to Chelsea's famous pancake house, My Old Dutch. Now, any space dedicated simply to pancakes already gets a whooping thumbs up from me, but trust me- these are bad ass pancakes- holy crepe indeed. With the circumference of one 'normal' sized pancake probably equating to the total of three of my homemade ones rolled into one biggun', these were not for the faint hearted- but were so damn good, if you are faint hearted you should try one anyway.
Following our pancake eating endeavors, we headed to an exhibition I'd be wanting to see, a little along the Kings Road. Titled 'Sixties London' by Dorothy Bohm- my dad has spotted it in the Metro- and correctly thought I'd be right up my street. Having not properly been to an exhibition since my good ol' A Level Photography days, it was refreshing to become re inspired by an artists work- especially knowing I wouldn't have to do a page write up and recreational piece afterwards.

''I tried not to be content with just the façade or outward appearance of things. I hoped to penetrate just beyond that, to portray living London: the people who pursued their daily occupations, walked, talked, ate or relaxed and dressed in the fashions of the time''- Dorothy Bohm
The gallery displayed images from everywhere from Hanover Square to Petticoat Lane- which oozed a gritty yet nostalgic reality in some absolutely breathtaking locations; from moddish boys with Beatles bowl hair cuts to backstreet alleys loitered with mischievous school children- all candid images, and all perfectly summarizing a completely inspiring era...

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Look and See: When Sir Paul met Alexa

When I think of Paul Smith I think of two things; socks and my uncle Shawn. Mainly because of a) Those trademark stripes b) The fact my uncle is fairly infatuated by him (which I can completely understand, but more on this later) and c) because from what I know, my uncle has more of his socks than is probably healthy (but has very cool feet, nonetheless). Saying that, I'd never really known all that much about Sir Paul Smith until now. Apart from striped socks, his quintessential Britishness and the fact that after seeing him talk, is the most charming 66 year old I've ever witnessed- I was a little in the dark to his absolute talent and admirable perspective.

''You can find inspiration in everything, if you can't then you're not looking properly''
The way Paul Smith views the world is simply refreshing. After displaying images in an on screen power point of coloured worldly architecture, a security guard in a vibrant blue suit (which we come to learn inspired pieces from his AW13 collection) and other day to day objects that often go ignored- he explained what he saw in them (often the obvious, which again, often goes ignored), that helped him created the designs we know and love- amazing really.
And he's right. He touched on something I feel pretty strongly about; looking and seeing. In an age where most inspiration comes from Pinterest or Instagram (don't get me wrong, my 'Ways to Wear' album has saved many a bad-outfit-day) it's easy to think you've seen it all, well without actually seeing it. 'Don't look at screens all the time', he explains- 'go and experience things, it's all there if you want it'. It's almost exhilarating to be reminded of such basic principles, as he goes on to explain his main motivation being 'a love of life. Every day is a new beginning. It's about today and tomorrow- do it 100% or pack it in'.

As well as inspiring us all to shut our laptops, switch off our iPhones, and close off our emails (Paul doesn't have a computer, and his wife Pauline, neither has a phone) he dipped into the topic of fashion inspiration. Starting at 14 in a clothes shop, and building up from there, Paul went on to talk about his brand (''every shop of mine is different, so people never know what to expect when they come in''), his style inspiration (''My missus. She knows her style, body and personality, and dresses accordingly'') and the importance of dressing for yourself, and not fashion. Overall, I found the talk really inspiring, a metaphorical kick up the arse if you like. It's not often I come away from something with such an urge to, 'just do it' and go out and 'see' things- but since the talk I've planned a trip to Cambridge, fought an urge to buy a film camera and bought a scrapbook (and glue, stickers, tape etc), so maybe it was really worthwhile. It was the first time I've attended the Vogue Festival, and after hearing mixed reviews last year ('all style, no substance') I came away pretty pleasantly surprised, and imagine if I'd have taken advantage of more of the things on offer (Vogue cover star makeovers with Vogue's very own Fran Burns and a full makeover on the beauty counter) I could have loved it even mores. But for now, I must get on with my cuttings out and shut off this old Acer for the day, toodles!

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For the talk, I was one of the Voucher Codes Most Wanted reporters- sounds profesh right?