What to wear to a wedding #PrettyinPink

Hello all! I've been doing my usual and franticly online shopping for an upcoming wedding. My sisters friends are getting married and we couldn't be happier as they are an absolutely beautiful couple! That being said, when it comes to weddings, I haven't got the faintest clue as to what to wear. I've been to two before but was a bridesmaid both times so my dress was already chosen for me. I had no idea what to wear and now I'd found four dresses that I would love to wear. It's always the way, you can't find anything or you have too many to choose from! As I do have a few options, rather than do one big post, I decided to do four posts with a new outfit in each. Hopefully your responses (or lack thereof) will help me decide which one to go for!

They say to put your best foot forwards and so I give you outfit number one, pretty in pink. This pastel dream covers all the basics in wedding outfit 101. Pastel colours are great for the big day as are floral prints! This Floral Print Scuba Bodycon Dress from ASOS is a steal at £45.00 and ticks all the boxes. I decided to pair it with Metallic hardcase clutch box from Accessorize. At £32 this is a little expensive for a bag but when it's this gorgeous and goes with the outfit so well, who can resist!

As always, the shoes have to be from New Look as I can always trust that I'm getting quality. This time around it's these Stone Pearl Strappy Heels at £24.99 and could not go better if they were made for this dress.

Overall, I think this oufit is absolutely stunning and is a real contender for the big day. As always, I need your help deciding. Let me know in the comments below what you think and if there's anywhere I should check out! Lots of love,

Laura.

Five drinks that are good your your health

None of the photos on this blog post are my own, nor were they taken by me.

We all know that what we put in our bodies has a huge influence on our health and with so much temptation on every corner, making healthy choices is that much more difficult. That being said, there are simple drinks that we can incorporate into our daily lives to improve our health and reduce risk of certain diseases and illnesses. Sound good to you? Well then, keep reading to find out more..

Green Tea
This is no new information to you I'm sure and for good reason. The benefits of green tea are widely known, but if for you this is new information, then here's a quick recap. To begin with green tea reduces the risk of Osteoporosis, cancer, heart disease and cavities (source here). It also has many ingredients that improve digestion and relive minor aliments such as indigestion. Where's the downside you say? Well, the stuff takes some getting used to and so I use the term 'delicious' very lightly here. I tend to have one cup of green tea in the morning after I've taken my fit tea (more on that in another post) and get it over with.

Water
Again, no surprises here. But this wouldn't be a complete post without stating the obvious. And that is that water is bloody good for you! Firstly, two thirds of your body is made up of it. In drinking enough water, you maintain the body's fluid balance which in turn helps regulate temperature, digest food and the transport of nutrients. Drinking plenty of H2O also acts as muscle fuel which you loose through sweat when you exercise. Clearer skin is yet another benefit as it flushes out toxins that cause the skin to inflame, giving the appearance of spots. In drinking water you also help aid kidney function as you provide fluids in order to remove the toxins they take from the blood. Furthermore, they boost productivity, help with hangovers, act as fatigue buster and many more. I could write a whole page on the information i've found and honestly, trust me when I say it's worth it. You can read more from my source here.

Lemon Water
Okay okay I know this technically comes under drinking water, but by adding lemon and drinking it warm, there are even more benefits. Drinking lemon water gives a rich source of nutrients such as calcium, potassium, pectin fibre and vitamin C. It boost the immune system and as a result protects you from more infections and it is a brilliant antiseptic. The addition of lemon also maintains the pH levels within the body, aids digestion and encourages the production of bile. Furthermore, it prevents growth and multiplication of pathogenic bacteria that can be the cause of infections and diseases (source here). So if you don't like the taste of water alone, try adding lemon for even more body boosting.

Coconut Water
Recently, I have become obsessed with coconut water. It's absolutely delicious and as with all the cocktails in this post, come with a host of body loving properties. With spring, comes the knowledge that many of us (myself included) have overindulged that little bit too much, and now we feel it. I've picked up where I left of with exercising (yeah right) and when I do, I follow up with coconut water. It contains naturally occurring electrolytes which replace those used during exercise. It contains very few calories and, if you like the taste of coconut, is delicious. If you are trying to shift the winter weight, coconut water is known to aid in weight loss efforts as it has an extremely low fat content. It can be consumed in large quantities without fear of packing on the pounds. Furthermore, it suppresses the appetite meaning those chocolate cravings will be a thing of the past. Other properties include a great hangover remedy, picture perfect skin and improved digestion. Read more here.

Peppermint Tea
And finally, peppermint tea, which does actually taste nice compared to green tea. Whilst it doesn't quite pack the punch like Green Tea does, it still host a wide variety of bonus' (source here). First of all, it has zero caffeine, which if you're an avid tea drinker like me, means you're not adding any more caffeine to your diet. Peppermint is widely known for it's many digestion aiding properties. It can reduce heartburn and relive symptoms of stomach ache, cramps and diarrhoea.  It also contains calcium and vitamin C which wards against illness. Yet another drink that has many benefits and little cons to speak of.

And so my lovely readers, that rounds up a rather educational post (for you and me both). looking into the benefits has seriously given me motivation to drink these more often. now I've completed the post, I will say that these aren't as delicious as Dr Pepper or the like, but when they come with this many advantages then there is little reason not to drink them. For me, that is all as I'm going to get myself a cup of green tea now. Begin with having just one of the above daily and you'll be feeling the effects in no time. That's all from me, stay happy and healthy folks!

Laura.

Book Review: The Life of Pi by Yann Martel

Hello all, I hope you've had a lovely day! I have had quite the week, doing 7 days in a row at work, hopefully this all pays off. So, to relax and unwind, I thought it would be the perfect time to blog about a book I am in love with. This time round, as you've probably guessed, I'll be talking about The Life of Pi by Yann Martel. I've tried my hardest not to give anything away so apologies for any spoilers that may have snuck in!

The story centres around a young boy called Pi Patel who is the son of a Zoo owner. It begins with him exploring different religions and his life at school and the zoo. It begins a little slowly if I'm honest, but picks up when his father decides to move his zoo abroad. Then, everything changes as the ship carrying Pi, his family and the zoo animals, gets caught in a storm and sinks.

Pi survives the storm and ends up on a lifeboat alongside a hyena, an orang-utan, a zebra and a Bengal tiger. The plot thickens as you discover what happens to them throughout their time on the sea. I have to be honest, the idea a story that mainly centres around one ship for majority of the book didn't excite me. That being said I'd heard good things so persevered. Thankfully, I could not have been more wrong. Yann has a way of writing that makes the reader forget there is a world beside that ship. That one ship that becomes Pi's whole life and through Yann's writing, yours.

I wont go into too much detail about the story itself any further than I've already discussed but I will say that the ending is probably one of the best of any book I've ever read. There aren't many books that, a year later, still has your mind buzzing over it's conclusion. Sadly, I can't discuss with you why it's so good as in doing so will ruin the book for those of you who haven't read it.

Overall, from the plot to the writing style, everything about this book is engulfing. I can't help but become engrossed in Pi's life and his story. To wrap it up, I will completely give this book a thumbs up from me. Have you read this book? If so what do you think? Let me know in the comments below.

Laura.

Monochrome Madness

Hello all, I hope you've had a lovely day! I've had a day off so thought I'd whip together a quick trend post. Monochrome seems to be just about everywhere lately and I can't get enough of it. Pairing a simple black and white tee with some black jeans and you have an outfit that will go with absolutely anything. I've put together my favourite tops currently available from New Look, we all know that for me it's New Look or nothing. 

I love scratch print tops and this Cameo Rose Black Scratch Print Boxy Top is just up my alley. Boxy tops like this are great for going out for meals to cover the inevitable food baby that follows (well for me anyway).

Barbot tops have made a huge comeback as of last year and show no signs of ending. This Monochrome Stripe Ribbed Bardot Top ticks all the boxes for me and would look amazing with just a pair of jeans and black accessories. 

I absolutely adore the Closet Black Scuba Floral Print Lace Back Peplum Top and while I do think for £32 it is wayyy expensive, it's just too cute to have not included in this. I don't care if peplum tops go out of fashion, I love them and think they are the most flattering top there is.

I don't need to say much about the Black Stripe Print High Neck Sleeveless Top as it's a fairly simple little top but I think it's items like this that you end up wearing to death because they go with everything. 

Again, this just a Black Wrap Front Long Sleeve Top but it's a little different due to the wrap front, which will hide any unflattering bellies and give a really nice silhouette at the same time. Plain and simple but I love it. 

The Grey High Neck Ribbed Vest is another plain number but high neck tops are all in at the moment and look super smart. These are the sorts of tops that can be worn in the day, for work or paired with a midi skirt and heels for a nice meal outfit. 

I actually tried the Monochrome Textured Stripe Shell Top on whilst shopping in New Look, but I'd already got £50 worth of clothes that I shouldn't really have been buying so I decided against buying this but I wish I had as it's such a flattering top. It had a nice tight fit but feels like it sucks you in, without being uncomfortable. Plus, it's not just plain stripes as it has a wavy stripe design. Love it. 

And finally, the White Stripe Print Curved Hem T-Shirt is just a plain stripy top but would look amazing with white jeans which I am already very tempted to invest in. Only thing with white jeans is they make the butt look big and mines already Kardashian size, oops. Back to the top though, the material would make this great in warmer weather. 

Well that is all from me, since putting these images together I've actually found another top that I love from New Look, of course. If you're interested in the monochrome trend, also take a look at this post by Couture Girl where she shows you her monochrome haul, don't look if you want to keep your money! Lots of love,

Laura. 

The Camel Coat Trend

One trend that has shown no signs of ending is the camel coat. I think this trend, for me, was first triggered when Kim K stepped out in that all nude ensemble and looked a million $$$. Nude is flattering for all skin tones, all shapes and sizes and goes with everything. Choosing the perfect coat can be tricky for just those reasons. Look no further.

I've been looking at countless pictures (found by searching through this google search, none were taken by me) and getting outfit inspiration. I've already got my eye on a camel coat currently on Ebay, so have been pleasantly surprised to find people pairing outfits with things similar to ones I already own. Thus, meaning I don't have to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe to match the coat (but we all know I will...)

With trends usually being so fleeting, it's a refreshing change to see one staying put. I for one tried to resist but alas, I am weak. I mean come on, Kim K, Fearne Cotton,  Chloe Plumstead and Carli Bybel, there's no way I was going to last. I am definitely going to invest in one of these badboys but what do you think of the camel coat trend? Let me know in the comments below. As always it's been a pleasure!

Laura.

What to wear this Valentines Day

So kids, not long until Valentines day and you already know how excited I am. I think the boyfriend and I are going to the cinemas and then getting a takeaway and snuggling up in the warm. We had thought about going out for a meal but I don't think either of us want anything too fancy, it's just not us. Anyway, what does count is the outfits and whilst I'll probably be donning a nice but casual dress, I couldn't resist looking up some fancier options for those of you who are doing something dressier.

The Anya Bandage High Neck Midi Bodycon Dress is plain and simple but will look killer on any figure. It's super smart and when teamed with a blazer, is the perfect simple but beautiful outfit.

Asos' Bandau Playsuit in Scuba with Cutout is probably my favourite one of them all. I actually think it's a little cold to wear this now but pair it with tights and it can still be worn. Plus, this would be fantastic to wear on holiday with a tan (and so it begins with the holiday wardrobe...)

Missguided always have fantastic dresses and the Lace Trim Strappy Midi Dress is no exception as it's fairly plain and simple but with little delicate lace details. I love the sweetheart neckline as it actually looks like a heart. Can't get more appropriate than that.

The Lianne Eyelash Lace Mini Dress is just another version of dresses I've already perved on (aka, the green topshop dress I mentioned in an New years post). It's nice and simple but the lace gives it a romantic feel. Perfect for V-day.

I don't think there's ever been a lipsy dress I haven't liked, including the Lipsy Body with Lace Appliqué Detail Top which is oh so fancy. This one is very dressy but if you and your significant other are going somewhere uber fancy, this might just be for you.

And finally, the Adelle Lace Bandau Midi Dress is my second favourite as it is just absolutely beautiful. It's not often you see lace dresses strapless and midi and I have no idea why as it makes for a beautiful dress. The black is a little dark but you could pair it with red accessories for a elegant outfit.

So those are my choices, have you decided on your plans yet, single or taken? For those of you who are riding solo for V-day, make it a pamper day for yourself, there's something for everyone. That's it from me lovelies, let me know which is your favourite in the comments below!

Laura.

February Diary

I've made it no secret that I dislike January. It's not that I hate it, it's just it always feels like there's so much pressure on us to start making changes to our lives. Improving and moving forward with our lives and goals. That is by no means a bad thing but good things do take time and I always feel a little disheartened when two weeks in, nothing has happened.

I wish I could say that it wasn't circumstance that I found myself so miserable, but it wasn't. The shop where I'm currently working towards my masters, wasn't doing very well. So much so that the seven people that were hired alongside yours truly no longer have jobs with the company. I was the only one that was kept on because management believed I had worked hard and showed the most promise. Times were unsteady as it was at the shop until one shift where I was sat in the office only to find that there was an armed robbery going on 20 metres from where I sat.

No one was hurt and the little gits didn't get much but the whole thing left us all shaken. I was taken aback by how supportive work have been since, even sending beautiful bouquets of flowers to my house (pictures on my instagram) and generally making our well being their priority. I've found that talking about it makes you understand it more, rather than passing it off as some bad dream. Does that make any sense? Probably not.

Thankfully, miserable Laura has officially left the building and in a much more positive place. I'm having a long hard think about what I want in life, career wise. While it is slightly intimidating knowing there are so many different avenues to go down, I know the right one for me will find its way. In the mean time, the only thing we can do is to keep moving forwards.

Does anyone else share my dislike for Jan? And are you happy that we have an official pancake eating day coming up? I know I am! Until next time...

Laura.

Wednesday Wants

Another Wednesday, another bunch of wants. No matter how much I buy, there's always something I've convinced myself I need. I've been really working on my room lately, clearing out all the crap. I've even started on my PJ draw and after beginning the Gossip Girl series (again), it's made me want  more glamourous nightwear than the "I love being cute" PJ's I currently own. Well, to avoid yet more rambling, here's my wants!

Maybelline The Nudes Palette has been on just about everyone's lips lately. I've never been one for Maybelline shadows as I never found the quality to be that good. That being said, the reviews for this palette have been very promising and to seal the deal, my girl crush Carlibel used this in one of her tutorials. Consider me sold.

The Bow Ballet Slipper Sock is one of those things I know I could live without, but I just don't want to. As forementioned, I want a more grown up PJ collection (sad) and I think these are just lovely to roam about the house in.

Rosie Huntington-Whitelys Floral Camisole Top and Floral Satin Pyjama Shorts are enough to make a grown woman weep. Sleeping in satin is like nothing you've ever felt before and honestly, when they're this gorgeous there's literally no reason I can think of to not make them mine. Kudos Rosie, kudos.

I've been loving smart simple dresses lately and this Dark Grey Fine Knit High Neck Midi Dress (seriously New Look, couldn't think of a shorter name?) is no exception. Throw on some tights and pointy heels and you've got yourself a super elegant outfit. Can't stop buying!

I think for my sanity (and my bank balance) I need to stop there. There's so much I still need in my life like VS undies (just for the sake of having a pair) and a few other bits and bobs. But, I'm grateful for all I have and I know these pretty things are uninportant in the big scheme of things. Alas, until next time lovely readers.

Laura.

The Red Dress

Good evening all! I am feeling happy (yet slightly ill) today as it is the first of February. There's something depressing about January and I'm not sure if it's the weather or something else. For me, January was a big month (Diary post coming soon) and honestly I'm glad to see that back of it. February however, brings happier times. Valentines day is coming up and I love nothing more than a good excuse to treat the lovely boyfriend. Plus, after a lovely valentines day, we have pancake day, woohoo!

For me, V day is the perfect time to get dressed up and feel a million dollars. Nothing says $$$ quite like a red dress and so I've thrown together all my favourite Red dresses to inspire us in time for V day. I'll also be doing a dress selection in another post so keep your eyes peeled!

These red dresses sported by Blake Lively and Rhianna look astonishing. B is my absolute girl crush and one of the main reasons I adore Gossip Girl. This outfit is no exception and she looks flawless. Plus, it's this picture that began my love affair with the plaited pony hairstyle. Meanwhile, RiRi shows she has some serious confidence by wearing this daring dress and looks absolute perfection.

If there's two things I love in this world it's Elie Saab and chiffon. There's just something so elegant about the way chiffon moves that makes it the perfect material for a red dress. I love the dress on the far right as it's off the shoulder design looks feminine and girly all in one.

I actually think that if I could get away with wearing Taylor Swift's dress to a dinner for two, I absolutely would. I think she looks like an absolute goddess. My only regret is that I'll probably never have an excuse to wear a dress as pretty as this one. Staring at it will have to do, *sigh*.

Aren't they just to die for! I think that practicality dictates that I'll be wearing something a little less OTT on the big day, but it's safe to say that I'm set on red. It's almost a mandatory uniform by this point. Following all the perving on dresses, It's time for some general V day pictures to leave you feeling all gooey!

And so I must bid you adieu! In the pipeline will be a V day inspired makeup look, a diary post and as mentioned earlier, a dress selection by yours truly. As of this moment I have absolutely no idea what I'm doing so I'll have to be sure to find out so I can dress acordingly. But lets be honest, any excuse to delight in outfit planning is fine with me! Have a wonderful evening (what's left of it, I've spent far too long oggling pictures) and until next time!

Laura.