tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53218071557143848222024-03-19T11:33:03.733-07:00Sophy VictoriaBeauty, lifestyle and fashion blogSophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comBlogger190125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-55285797209507282162018-10-28T07:49:00.000-07:002018-10-28T07:49:30.424-07:00How I Plan on Beating the Winter Blues<div style="text-align: center;">
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Winter and I have a love hate relationship. On one hand, I love cosying up under the covers and finding cute little pubs to have a fire lit roast in. Then on the other, I absolutely despise being cold and having to do the mad dash to grab my dressing gown in the mornings before the heating kicks in. My mood can be so changeable too during the colder months; I find it really hard to keep myself upbeat and regularly experience lulls where I'm a little down for no apparent reason. I wanted to share a few of my top tips for perking yourself up during the down days as let's be honest, we all have them!</div>
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- B O X S E T S -</div>
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I'm trying hard not to spend too much money at the moment as I'm going away in a month or so for Christmas. As I'm in saving mode my social calendar has taken a bit of a back seat so I've been consciously making an effort to stay in at least 2 weekends out of the month. Instead of wallowing in self pity at the thought of my friends all out having fun (I get serious FOMO sometimes!) I just do a bit of mid week research and make a mental note of some series I know I'll be able to get into to distract me. I make sure I have some yummy food in (popcorn is a must) and that's me sorted for the rest of the evening. I've recently finished watching Killing Eve on BBC iPlayer and I've almost finished Bodyguard. Both are brilliantly gripping. Netflix wise I've just started a show called Glow; totally crazy and from the makers of Orange is the New Black. A few less current series I've loved are Peaky Blinders, Big Little Lies, Handmaids Tale and of course Game of Thrones. The Affair is also great and so is Mad Men. When it comes to good TV at the moment you're spoilt for choice so don't be afraid to clear your diaries and get comfy under the duvet. </div>
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- N I G H T S I N W I T H F R I E N D S -</div>
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I've been loving visiting my friends recently for film nights. It means you can have some company in the comfort of your own home or theirs and allows you to socialise without the expense of going out. My friends and I live quite close to one another so it's easy for us to just drop in. I regularly put my trackies on and walk over, grabbing some snacks on the way and sometimes ordering a take away if we're feeling lazy. I always feel better after an evening spent chatting to my best friend.</div>
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- P L A N N I N G F U N N I G H T S/ D A Y S O U T - </div>
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Whilst I might be staying in more it doesn't mean I don't look forward to a good day or evening out. For every 2 weekends a month I'm staying in, there's at least 1 where I'm doing something fun. I try and make it count too; so a trip up to London, a concert or a meal at my favourite restaurant. I'm the kind of person who needs something to look forward to or my mood can take a real dip. If you're dreading this time of year then make sure you plan one thing a month that you know you'll really enjoy. If nothing else, it gives you something to look forward to during the really down days. </div>
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- R E A C H O U T -</div>
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People are busy and usually tied up in their own things. It doesn't mean they don't care, but it can make you feel like you're on your own a lot of the time. Don't be afraid to reach out to people and make plans to see them. It might feel like you're putting in a lot of the effort but sometimes people need a bit of a push to get plans in place. Spend your down time looking at ideas for fun group activities and send a few date suggestions out to your group chats. The more you reach out, the more plans you'll make and you'll soon find your social calendar filling up. </div>
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- T R E A T Y O U R S E L F -</div>
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I always feel better when I treat myself. Whether that's to a meal out, a new item of clothing or a skincare splurge. This time of year sees all of the fun Christmas releases coming out so get some early Christmas shopping in for yourself. I've just moved house so I'm loving home wear stuff at the moment. Scented candles are a really nice thing to get yourself, and perfect for lighting during those box set binge watching evenings. </div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-43293067982656712032018-10-07T12:04:00.002-07:002018-10-07T12:11:08.184-07:00An Open Letter to my Teenage Self (and my little sisters)<div style="text-align: center;">
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Life is strange, right? We coast along oblivious to the real repercussions of getting old and then before you know it, you're staring in the bathroom mirror tweezers in one hand, long, thick strand of grey hair in the other, wondering what you did in a past life to deserve such unkind hair follicles. Getting old can be an unwelcome inevitability but one that gives you a pretty significant level of hindsight. Which is why I wanted to write an open letter to my younger, teenage self and also my little sisters. I wanted to share some of the things I've learnt, some of the things I still haven't and also pass on a bit of reassurance that, although it might not seem like it, things do get easier. I think. </div>
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My little sisters aren't so little anymore. They are 18, 16 and 15 respectively but to me, they'll always be little. I've seen them go through a lot growing up. Way more than I did as a kid. They've experienced pressures I just never had, mainly due to the rise of social media in the last decade but also due to a more recent shift in our popular culture. Everything seems so much harder nowadays. More pressure at school, huge expectations. It was hard when I was younger don't get me wrong, but I don't remember seeing Gucci clad models all over my walls. Virtual or otherwise. </div>
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So here it is. My letter to my younger self and my younger sisters: </div>
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<i>Dear Sophy, Alice, Bibi and Mahli,</i></div>
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<i>I know it probably feels like life is unfair at times. You look around and everyone else appears to have the best life; rich parents which affords endless opportunities but I can assure you, it's not all what it seems. When you get older you'll realise that people only share and discuss what they want you to see and hear. Money and material things don't have a direct correlation with happiness. </i></div>
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<i>Social media is not a true representation of real life. It's a snapshot in time and a very skewed one at that. Filters blur out imperfections but that doesn't mean they aren't there. The people that share the most are sometimes the most insecure and unhappy.</i></div>
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<i>Looks are not everything. You're all highly intelligent, strong minded young women who can achieve anything you want to if you set your mind to it. Never let anyone dumb you down. Don't ever feel embarrassed to be different or ashamed of thinking outside of the box. These traits will eventually make people look at you in awe. The confused faces you see at the moment are only jealous; they wish they could be as open, honest and confident as you. </i></div>
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<i>Your parents are always learning and they aren't perfect either. They are under huge pressure, just like you but their pressure is different. It's an internal pressure to be the best parents they can be and to give you all of the things they didn't have when they were growing up. Try and give them a break; they only want what's best for you. </i></div>
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<i>Friends come and go, but the ones who support you through the tough times and deal with you at your worst are the ones you want to keep hold of. School friends may stay with you. Or they may not. You may move cities, make new friends and still keep in touch with old ones. Don't try and hold on to people who don't actively stick around. Forced friendships are a waste of energy. </i></div>
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<i>Romantic relationships will always be a challenge but if I've learnt anything, it's that real love should be pretty effortless. It doesn't matter who sends the last text, or who made the first move. If you like each other, you like each other and both parties will put in equal effort. Listen to your gut and don't ask for too many opinions from others on a potential partner. Your friends and family will always have your best interest at heart but sometimes too many opinions can drive you insane. Make your own judgement calls. You'll learn a lot about your own judge of character that way. </i></div>
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<i>Your heart will be broken. Possibly more than once. The pain will stop and you won't feel it forever. Try and stay on good terms with exes if you can. I found it made for better karma and generally a better sense of well being. Especially if you have mutual friends. </i></div>
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<i>Experiment with your style. Dye your hair every colour you can. If you want to pierce it, pierce it. Don't have any regrets. There will come a time when you won't be able to pull off that pink hair (believe me!) so make the most of it whilst you can. Holes heal and hair will grow back but the photos you get to show your children when you're older will last a lifetime. </i></div>
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<i>Do not over pluck your eyebrows! Leave those bad boys be. If you're going to style them go to a professional. </i></div>
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<i>Read all of the books and listen to all of the music. Don't pigeon hole yourself just because your friends like something. Be an individual. Visit museums. Culture and film is where you'll learn the most interesting things about your generation and why you are where you are today. Don't turn your nose up at people who are older than you; they often have some amazing stories to tell. </i></div>
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<i>Family may seem like an inconvenience at times but don't take them for granted. They won't be around forever. Don't let it take a family loss to make you realise how important they are because it'll already be too late. Go to the family gatherings and visit your grandparents as often as you can. You'll cherish the memories of those times when you can't see them anymore. </i></div>
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<i>Spend time alone and learn to be comfortable in your own company. Life affords some amazing experiences and some of the best are spent in solace. Learn to separate yourself from your phone and technology as much as you can. The world is out there for living and real life human interaction is infinitely better than communicating online.</i><br />
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<i>Be honest with people and with yourself. Don't let anyone take you for granted and learn the limits of what you can and can't accept early on. You will meet people in your life who are "takers". They will drain you and make you feel like whatever you give them isn't enough. Learn to cut people off before they exhaust you. </i></div>
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<i>Finally, and most importantly, be kind. </i></div>
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<i>I'm really proud of you and I love you lots. </i></div>
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<i>Sophy x</i></div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-15915015776205234632018-09-23T08:09:00.000-07:002018-09-23T08:13:51.779-07:00The Dating Game<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I can state with absolute confidence that I have spent the majority of my life either in a relationship, chasing a relationship or absentmindedly fawning over a man. If someone asked me to catagorise myself I'd probably say I'm a serial relationship jumper; someone who spends the majority of her time going from one partner to the next with little to no time spent being single in between. Now this isn't necessarily because I'm constantly on the rebound; I just happen to find myself in relationships a lot of the time. I've been very lucky with the majority of my partners and my serial dating habits have not made me incapable of being independent. I love my own space and I enjoy my own company. </div>
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Being single for the second time in my late 20's has made me re-evaluate things though. I'm looking through a slightly older, hopefully wiser lens and I'm not entirely sure I'm liking what I'm seeing in this "new age" of dating. The other day I was scrolling through Facebook and I saw an advert entitled "Catch Him and Keep Him: 10 ugly mistakes women make that ruins any chance of a relationship". My gut reaction was to become a keyboard warrior and comment on the advert. I wanted to state how ridiculous it was to target women in such a way; I mean how dare an advert describe a mistake as "ugly"? Especially when it comes to dating. The rule books on how to find your "perfect man" are so extensive nowadays no wonder us girls are falling short. How on earth are we supposed to keep up with these so called "techniques" to trap the wild animal we have come to call the common man. The fact we even type cast men in such a way is sexist in itself; heaven forbid a man may actually WANT to be in a relationship?! </div>
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The whole ad got me thinking; at what point did we decide to turn the world of dating into a game? When the prize at the end is supposed to be a deep, meaningful relationship that has longevity, why are we treating the lead up like some kind of sick Saw lll style movie, with rules that are almost impossible to follow? The more I thought about it the more I realised.... The relationships I'd been in before had very rarely come about following such "tit for tat" style behavior. I was officially confused. </div>
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The weeks that followed reading this article were interesting. I began to try and unlearn the rules I had started to hold in such high regard. I changed my behaviour when it came to speaking to guys, either out in bars or over text. I stopped putting as high a value on the attention they gave me and in return, I stopped assuming that I should be the most important thing in their lives at that given moment. Dating is a time to get to know someone, not a time to become solely invested. I stopped classifying chilled out behaviour as being mugged off. I tried my best to stop second guessing things and more importantly, I learnt to separate my own needs from those of my friends. </div>
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I'm not entirely sure at what point we decided to put men on these unrealistically high pedestals. And I'm not sure when it became a negative in life to need someones affection and attention; for them to respond to a text or an email in a timely fashion and for a girl, god forbid, to ask a guy out on a first date. I regularly hear women telling me that the guy should message first. That he should be the one chasing and making us feel like a prize to be won. Why? Why is it that when a girl chases a guy, she's immediately perceived as being desperate? And usually not even by the man in question, but by her own female friends? Don't get me wrong I know the line between being overly keen and obsessive is a fine one to trapeze; everyone should hold a high value on self preservation. But to assume that someones needs and desires are purely based on whether they are male or female is a completely ludicrous concept. Everyone is individual, regardless of their sex.</div>
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To those of you who are single and currently going through the dating loop, take a step back. Put down the newest dating book you've just picked up and ask yourself, has your behaviour to date actually gotten you where you wanted to be? If he hasn't text you back it doesn't necessarily mean he's not that into you. Maybe he's just not that into you YET or more to the point, maybe he's... You know....Busy? If you haven't found Mr. Right, maybe that's the universe trying to tell you it's a good time to be on your own. After all, the sole purpose in life isn't to find a partner, it's to be happy. </div>
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So. Send the text. Or don't. Do whatever you feel you need to but please, don't follow some ridiculous rules that have absolutely no credibility at all. We are perpetuating this "Dating Game" economy and I think it's time to buck the trend. </div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-79045393134156908232018-09-06T12:18:00.001-07:002018-09-06T14:31:05.053-07:00My Guide to Getting Through Your Breakup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiehQS9tdRZ2jJ2jfRKOYbieinP3G_CloqP2y6d4ByBJjF7FKUvb_sTy7eEZpLeyTg1JptAAR2UU1jXLEyraPAY09AI20_OnNJYjlv428wDXW38YqaJctyt3VvcXlnwYgDHbsvA0MuX2kRk/s1600/IMG_1114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiehQS9tdRZ2jJ2jfRKOYbieinP3G_CloqP2y6d4ByBJjF7FKUvb_sTy7eEZpLeyTg1JptAAR2UU1jXLEyraPAY09AI20_OnNJYjlv428wDXW38YqaJctyt3VvcXlnwYgDHbsvA0MuX2kRk/s1600/IMG_1114.jpg" /></a></div>
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So your relationship has ended. You're probably sitting there crying, wondering if you'll ever meet anyone else as amazing/ good looking/ funny as the person that's just unceremoniously walked out of your life. You've been scouring the internet Google searching "what are the odds on couples getting back together after they split up?" You've stocked up on relationship advice books and have been re reading the pages that talk about "how to get over him as quickly as possible". You've stopped eating or alternatively, you've filled your fridge up with Babybel, Cheese Strings, Mini Peperami and so many packs of Dairy Milk chocolate buttons that you're genuinely concerned people are going to think you've opened a tuck shop in the comfort of your own home. I mean you need to make some kind of money as you can barely get off the sofa let alone make it into work. </div>
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If I told you right now that in two weeks you'll feel like a completely different person you'd never believe me. I know that because two weeks ago I wouldn't of believed me. Breakups are shit. There's no getting away from it and there's nothing anyone can do at the time to make you feel better about the fact you're heartbroken. It doesn't matter if it was a 3 month relationship, a mutual parting of ways or a total shock to the system. It doesn't change the fact it will always be a really shitty time. But it won't be like that forever. </div>
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Everything in life has to come to an end. And from my own personal experience, it's how you deal with those endings that shapes the kind of person you are. Pretty deep I know, but the first rule of breakup club is try to maintain your self respect. That means no angry texts, no 3am begging phone calls and absolutely no stalking. Switch your phone off, put it on "time out" upstairs and sob on the sofa if you need to. Ride that emotional wave and let yourself grieve for the loss of the relationship but don't share your pain with your ex partner. You can't help each other through this. That's what your friends and family are for. </div>
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By day 3 or 4 the tears will have subsided. Don't get me wrong you'll still have those moments when that pain rises (personally I found the mornings the worst) but I can assure you the worst has, more or less, gone. You've started to kick the habit of checking when they were last online (I still recommend putting your phone on time out at least once a day for a few hours to give yourself a break from the obsessive checking of social media) and you feel like you might be able to make it out of the house and socialise. Here's the next shock to the system; human interaction. Having to speak to people outside of your immediate support network is a necessity I'm afraid. One you may not be entirely ready for but treat it like a plaster; rip that fucker off. People might be a bit shocked by your behavior (holla at the friend who witnessed me hysterically crying in the middle of the town I work in) but that's life. We're all human and people who can't deal with you at your worst certainly don't deserve you at your best. Don't ever be embarrassed of your emotions.</div>
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A week or so into the break up and it's time to cleanse. Make a new Spotify playlist. Clear out your wardrobe. Take down the photos if you haven't done so already. If you want to bin them, do it. If you feel like you'd like to remember the relationship at a later date, put them in a memory box and shove that box so far under your bed you won't be tempted to revisit it anytime soon, unless it's to laugh at your soppy letters and ask yourself why you ever used the word "sweetie" so often. It might seem harsh but you need your own personal space to feel like exactly that; YOURS. Not yours and your partners or some kind of weird memorial to the relationship that's gone. It's time to move on. This is the start of the rest of your life and I can assure you with 100% certainty you will not regret taking last years valentines day card off your windowsill. </div>
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One of the things I found really therapeutic was talking to my friends about all the things I wanted from a new relationship. It made it so clear to me just how wrong the past one actually was for me. This isn't about slagging off your ex, but about reminding yourself of what you actually need. At one of my first ever counselling sessions I remember telling my therapist how everyone else seemed like they were able to handle things much better than me. I'd always talk about how I was too "needy" or "high maintenance". He said that needs and desires are personal; it doesn't matter what someone else needs from a partner, what's important is what YOU need. Start tuning into your own feelings and desires and own them. And more importantly, don't be ashamed of them. You will meet someone who is in tune with you and the relationship will flourish as a consequence. </div>
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Finally it's time to move on. Maybe don't dive into Tinder quite yet (one of my best friends calls it the small muddy puddle of the dating world and I think she has a point) but start reaching out. Had a crush on someone? Message them. You deserve an ego boost and now is the best time to take advantage of new beginnings. Take time for yourself, indulge in the things you know will make you happy whether that's a hobby you've left by the wayside or a series you stopped watching because your ex didn't like it (see where I'm going here?...) Life is for living and right now you need to take charge. Say yes to fun plans and start making new memories. </div>
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Everything happens for a reason. I mean what friends do you know that have told you they regret a break up and are desperate to get back with an ex? It just doesn't happen all that often. The best times in life often follow on from some of the most painful so allow yourself to grieve. Don't be ashamed of your emotions and by the time the two weeks are up, you'll be looking back and wondering why you didn't end things sooner.</div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-62980403684829035322018-08-21T10:54:00.000-07:002018-08-21T10:54:52.483-07:00Life Update: Anxiety<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizcQXnE_bXjLRazgK6zAHL4KWLwaAHmrBvU8qHr8YffF9C1Tk7NnS2ZM_jpMonRQHAAAX_sQ3JHLoS0OatjqsBnfC0aV6GRWsOgbwi5ZPZzDBxibr22f88-BceOpdDui6zm7d7kNUHatQp/s1600/IMG_1117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizcQXnE_bXjLRazgK6zAHL4KWLwaAHmrBvU8qHr8YffF9C1Tk7NnS2ZM_jpMonRQHAAAX_sQ3JHLoS0OatjqsBnfC0aV6GRWsOgbwi5ZPZzDBxibr22f88-BceOpdDui6zm7d7kNUHatQp/s1600/IMG_1117.jpg" /></a></div>
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It's been almost 18 months since I wrote my blog post about anxiety. <a href="http://www.sophyvictoria.com/2017/03/the-year-i-stopped-laughing.html">The Year I Stopped Laughing</a> is by far my most popular blog post to date and I thought now, over a year on, would be a good time to do an update post. </div>
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Mental health for many people is an ongoing battle. Anxiety isn't something that always goes away completely; it often lies dormant for months if not years and rears it's ugly head when you least expect it. Most people I know who suffer with it will have long periods of time feeling absolutely fine, however a trigger can occur at anytime and their struggle starts all over again. This is what makes it so hard to deal with; it really can take you by surprise. </div>
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I'm pretty lucky that I've not had a relapse since the last time. I am going through a different kind of anxiety though which is based on my age and the time I'm at in my life (for more info head over and read my <a href="http://www.sophyvictoria.com/2018/08/freaking-out-about-big-3-0.html">Freaking Out About the Big 3-0</a> post). Because I've had experience of anxiety and coming through it, I've got a lot of coping techniques that I'm using to help me. Most of which are centered around training your mind. Here's where I'm at with each of them, and how I feel they are helping:</div>
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- M E D I T A T I O N -</div>
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I recently downloaded an app called "<a href="https://www.headspace.com/">Headspace</a>". The app in it's basic form is free (you'll need to pay monthly for the full version) and provides you with daily guided meditations of 5 or 10 minutes in length. I love it, mainly because the guy who's narrating it isn't cringey at all; just a normal man talking you through it. But also because it incorporates some great videos to help you understand your mind a little better. I can't recommend this app enough; it's helped me manage my own personal head space and be a lot more at ease with what's going on in my life. </div>
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- S E L F H E L P B O O K S -</div>
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I've recently started a trial with <a href="https://www.audible.co.uk/">Audible</a> and downloaded a book called <a href="https://www.smythsbooks.com/product/the-power-of-now/?gclid=CjwKCAjw8O7bBRB0EiwAfbrTh4JDpn_vdQb6l9X7tQ6xddyp5rpb9klYd_GbLq0aaX0RYlpEc9uOLhoCEDAQAvD_BwE">The Power of Now</a>. I've been listening to it for an hour each day where I can and I've found it's really helped. It helps teach you to live in the now instead of worrying about future or past events that you can't control. The shift from reading an actual book to listening to an audio version makes it a whole load more accessible too: I can listen in my car, or whilst at work for a quick 10 minute pep talk. The message the book is trying to get across is similar to the <a href="https://www.headspace.com/">Headspace</a> app too so the two work really well together. </div>
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- C O U N S E L L I N G -</div>
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I've started going to counselling twice a month to talk about the things that have happened in my life that could be causing me to feel the way I do. I know lots of people who have had therapy of some kind, whether that's through the NHS or booked privately, and everyone I've spoken to has said it's helped them massively. I am of the opinion that we should all be open when it comes to talking about our feelings and battles. The more we talk, the more we feel that people are listening and in turn, we reduce the stigma that surrounds mental health. If you are considering going to any kind of therapy but you aren't sure, my advice is to go for it. Many private counsellors offer a free hours consultation where you have no obligation to book any additional visits so what have you got to lose? I've started an Instagram TV channel over at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sophy_victoria/">sophy_victoria</a> where I do a quick 5 minute video after each of my sessions. If you're wanting some more info then I'd recommend watching these. I'll be as open as I can be without basically telling you everything I spoke about in my session... Cause you know... Privacy :)</div>
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If you're reading this and currently struggling with any kind of mental health issue, just know you're not alone. Hundreds of thousands of people (if not more!) across the world are feeling just the same as you right now. The best thing you can do is take back control of your mind and speak to someone about it. Knowledge is power and the more you educate yourself about why you're feeling the way you do the less scary it will feel. </div>
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I'm always here if you need to talk so feel free to DM me over on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sophy_victoria/">Instagram account</a>. I'm no health professional but I'm happy to give advice based on my own personal experiences. </div>
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Sophy x</div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-14619473200537643532018-08-12T10:15:00.000-07:002018-08-12T10:15:02.308-07:00Freaking Out About the Big 3-0<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I did a Q&A over on my Instagram account a week or so ago (if you don't follow me then you totally should because that's basically where I post all of my content now, including videos over on my IGTV channel. Shameless plug). I'm turning 30 in about 3 or so months and I wanted people to ask me some questions about it. It seems like there's so many question marks and a little bit of stigma surrounding turning 30 and I wanted to kind of... Get it all out in the open. </div>
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I've had moments over the last year or so where I've freaked out about the fact I'm going into my 30's soon. It's been so scary at times and it sort of feels like no one really talks about how scary it actually is? Unless it's just me freaking out over here on my own in which case lol to little old loner me over here and feel free to stop reading any further. </div>
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Getting older has completely taken me by surprise. I don't feel any older mentally than I did aged about 25 however I've now got people asking me when I plan on having kids, if I plan on having them at all, what my maternity package looks like where I work and if my credit rating is OK to get a mortgage. These are all totally acceptable questions and I like people being inquisitive, but it's a lot of pressure to put on someone who's only been in a relationship for 8 months and quite frankly, is a bit of an over thinker. Society seems to of taken time and put a multitude of finite time stamps on it telling you when you should've achieved parenthood, marriage, self awareness, sobriety. It's fucking stressful. And it seems to be more stressful if you're a woman. I don't want to get into a sexism debate but as women, we've been taught from a young age that our biological clocks are ticking; I know the risk of having children reduces with age Susan I don't need you to constantly remind me. </div>
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I've lost count of the amount of times I've seen eyebrows raise when I tell people I don't own my own house yet, or that I'm not married. I almost want to respond with some crude stats on divorce rates in America or the plight of the millennial and the fact it's nye on impossible for us to purchase our own property but then I figure it's pointless; society is predisposed to see us achieving these milestones by a certain age so who am I to question it? </div>
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At the end of the day, I can't change the fact that I'm aging and I can't change the fact that I haven't achieved all of the milestones that my friends have. All I can do is live in the now (as let's be honest that's all that really matters) and trust that I'm exactly where I should be. I will always have days where people's opinions on my life get me down, but I know I'll look back in years to come and have a good old laugh at how I freaked out about what's essentially.... Just another birthday. </div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-27366057679496695502018-05-07T09:29:00.003-07:002018-05-07T09:29:19.271-07:00Prepping your Skin for Summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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These last few weeks of hot weather have got me thinking about changing my skincare and more importantly my makeup for the warmer months. My first holiday is fast approaching and I've been thinking of switching to something a little lighter and Summer appropriate. I have such oily skin during the warmer months I struggle to find a light foundation that will battle the shine. I've been re trialing the <a href="https://www.bareminerals.co.uk/face-makeup/tinted-moisturiser-and-bb-cream/complexion-rescue-tinted-hydrating-gel-cream/UKmastercomrescue.html">bareMinerals Complexion Rescue</a> which they describe as a tinted gel cream. It's a lovely consistency and a great colour match for me but I do notice that my skin gets a little shiny towards the end of the day. I'm trying to find a good setting powder to go with it at the moment so any recommendations that any of you have feel free to send them my way. It's definitely my go to for summer holidays though as it has a high SPF and gives very light coverage letting my natural (usually freckly) skin show through. I'm more of a natural makeup fan so this is perfect for me. </div>
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Whilst trialing the Complexion Rescue I've also been trying to work out if I can lighten up my forever favourite <a href="https://www.feelunique.com/p/Revlon-ColorStay-Makeup-for-CombinationOily-Skin-30ml?gclid=Cj0KCQjw2pXXBRD5ARIsAIYoEbe4rlLnNhVXBiWMeNpUvdM6CafJqAl82EkfC9oYE3E6S85_CvYtfykaAtpMEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Revlon Colorstay</a>. It is by far my number 1 drugstore foundation with a great shade selection and a fantastic formula for oily/ combination skin. I've decided applying this with a damp beauty blender is the best way to thin it out slightly. This might be a good idea to try for any exiting foundation you have if you'd prefer not to spend money on something new for Summer. I swear by my <a href="https://www.lookfantastic.com/real-techniques-miracle-complexion-sponge/11405789.html?affil=thggpsad&switchcurrency=GBP&shippingcountry=GB&gclid=Cj0KCQjw2pXXBRD5ARIsAIYoEbf1KgMnIp4PM4VUZvK00XWRS1ZfYdkPkP-7I-YYeOVgALKesxZsougaAjqKEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CLfqrKf139oCFfgR0wodgJoHew">Real Techniques Beauty Blender</a> and find it creates such a flawless finish with most foundations. </div>
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Skincare wise I tend to use a facial moisturiser that has a high SPF when I know I'm going to be spending a lot of time in the sun. I've been using a few recently, but my favourite formula has to come from Tesco with their <a href="https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/294833722">Aloe Face Cream</a>. It's a bargain at £2 and has an SPF of 6. I'm also really impressed with the packaging too; a glass pot which is pretty good for the price. The scent is really refreshing too plus it hydrates without leaving your skin feeling too oily.</div>
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Have you got any summer makeup and skincare staples that you can't live without?</div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-56221180994519540952018-04-22T09:24:00.002-07:002018-04-22T11:22:00.840-07:00How to Wear the Shirt Dress Trend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtuX3NjCz1khC444IrxcHwSnIUFXj4O_Vnq54G2oEAKX7nPM0f1_1abm6f-PLjQjsXvuhv2ZYFa6LZl416e-jCvhO8EZazwbVSyC5HrzYNnG9gwA5gyYq0RPl6l9HUo9sp6C3Sp1YOARfl/s1600/P4218692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtuX3NjCz1khC444IrxcHwSnIUFXj4O_Vnq54G2oEAKX7nPM0f1_1abm6f-PLjQjsXvuhv2ZYFa6LZl416e-jCvhO8EZazwbVSyC5HrzYNnG9gwA5gyYq0RPl6l9HUo9sp6C3Sp1YOARfl/s1600/P4218692.jpg" /></a></div>
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This summery weekend finally put an end to what felt like an eternity of wearing over sized jumpers and winter boots. I don't really need much of an excuse to get into a floaty dress and sandals but if I had of needed one, the last week or so was it. </div>
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Now I kind of lost my fashion mojo this winter. I don't know if it was the weather or my mood but I just didn't feel like being bold. I bought this dress a few months back when the spring clothing first hit the highstreet shops and although I loved it, I didn't think I'd actually be confident enough to wear it. Since the weather has brightened up though I'm feeling back to my normal self and I'll be honest, I'm a little bit obsessed with the shirt dress trend. So much so I've been trawling the usual shopping sites trying to find some more. This one is actually from Primark and was a bargain at no more than £20. The bell sleeve detail is so on trend at the moment and the flower print at the top just adds that little bit of colour. </div>
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When it comes to styling these kinds of dresses, I usually opt for some comfy sandals. I didn't photograph my shoes in this shoot (mainly because I was in a very unglamorous, muddy field #bloggerlifeproblems) but I opted for some black gladiator sandals that tied up round my leg, no higher than the bottom of my calf. There's a little bit of black in the detailing at the top so I figured it would pull the outfit together nicely. </div>
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If you're looking to be a little more conservative with the shirt dress trend then I'd recommend buying something simpler like this gorgeous <a href="https://www.prettylittlething.com/khaki-utility-shirt-dress.html">kahki dress from Pretty Little Thing</a>. Teamed with some over the knee boots (because hey, we all know that this flash summer we've had this weekend won't last and the boots will be back out next week) and a statement necklace, you've got yourself the perfect "day to night" outfit. If the blue and white striped thing is more you then I'm loving this <a href="https://www.prettylittlething.com/marsie-blue-pinstripe-tie-waist-shirt-dress.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=google_shopping&utm_content=uk&utm_term=product_target&istCompanyId=3b233929-048d-4b79-a672-b37827e7282d&istItemId=xpxtmmrapw&istBid=tztm&gclid=Cj0KCQjw5fDWBRDaARIsAA5uWTjdex-rvJkG9sa9NevGk5n7s0OPHlbABvb5SvbBbONin6K50cfenYgaAsoFEALw_wcB">blue pinstripe wrap around dress</a>, again from Pretty Little Thing. Paired with some cute little sandals or wedges you can't go wrong. </div>
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Has anyone else got any spring to summer trends they've been loving?</div>
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Dress - Primark</div>
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Earrings - Topshop</div>
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Watch - Daniel Wellington</div>
Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-7610961394098907732018-04-15T07:45:00.000-07:002018-04-15T07:59:29.064-07:00Goals, Priorities and Protecting Yourself<div style="text-align: center;">
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I'm the kind of person who plans. I plan because it gives me comfort. The irony though is that you can't plan for "life". What will be will be and the reality of it is things happen, people are unpredictable and situations change. In other words, life has a habit of throwing you curve balls and there's not much you can do to stop it. </div>
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If I asked 10 different people to give me a list of their top 5 priorities in life, I'm sure that I'd get 10 very different answers. Priorities are personal to the individual you're talking to, and no one list is going to be exactly the same as another. That being said, it's important that you surround yourself with people who's priorities vaguely match yours; they are akin to life goals after all and you can hardly spend your life surrounded by people who are on a completely different page. </div>
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Over the last few weeks, I've been forced to think long and hard about what I want from life. I have been through a lot over the last few years and I think I lost myself a little through it all. I've allowed people to take advantage of me. I've allowed myself to be an option as opposed to a priority. And at times I've forgotten my value and my self worth. </div>
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I'm almost half way into the 29th year of my life and I'm having a long hard look at what I've done to get here and what I've got to do to be where I want to be. That means re assessing my priorities, my life goals and who I want to take with me into my 30's; a decade that I envisage being pretty life changing. So, who's going to make the cut.....?</div>
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In short, anyone who's been through the hard times with me, seen me at my best but also at my worst and still loved me. Priorities wise, I'm simplifying things. My one and only priority for the rest of this year (and always, to be honest) is to be happy. As life goes on I'm sure I'll add some more on but for now, I feel like that's enough. Goals wise I'm making a mental list and each and every one is going to be something that, once achieved, will make ME happy. Not my partner, not my friends, not my employers, ME. I'm done with doing things for other people. Ultimately if you love me you should want to see me happy and encourage whatever it takes to get me there.<br />
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My advice to anyone struggling to figure out what their own priorities or goals in life are is to keep it simple. Do what makes you happy and everything else should follow suit. Don't lose sight of yourself and never make someone else a priority when they can't reciprocate. Ultimately you're the only one who can look out for you so love yourself, appreciate what you're worth and set goals that excite and inspire you. Some people may think you're being selfish but sometimes in life, you need to put yourself first. Like Mark said in Love Actually.. "it's a self preservation thing" </div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-44185777033631315702018-01-27T06:03:00.001-08:002018-02-05T04:16:02.070-08:00Battling Demons & Comparing Yourself<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_EVYKlt_UVr96WjEIytp8lH9NuJit7XknZfTdjwnO3BKdb7qHTfQsU87olBMyHP5bxsHaurBbD9Gm3S5s8ma8Ky1VQM28zdoTgz7L9WC90Rlesz0936s0qFMHhl86fdAt3KAuAEai36B/s1600/P1188592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_EVYKlt_UVr96WjEIytp8lH9NuJit7XknZfTdjwnO3BKdb7qHTfQsU87olBMyHP5bxsHaurBbD9Gm3S5s8ma8Ky1VQM28zdoTgz7L9WC90Rlesz0936s0qFMHhl86fdAt3KAuAEai36B/s1600/P1188592.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuRq6M9MkeKjvSOmLNYKLi72XzQIjoxlkG7fnaVtp8w0-0zbpqRVQgAADvNRN6vjQwylfn0xS_QuwY76Mef4b8YBXm8JODsdgHPuiA-iA4AuM9qnQvjkvCL3nsp6YnmblKxeurZtUmDJ2a/s1600/P1188604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuRq6M9MkeKjvSOmLNYKLi72XzQIjoxlkG7fnaVtp8w0-0zbpqRVQgAADvNRN6vjQwylfn0xS_QuwY76Mef4b8YBXm8JODsdgHPuiA-iA4AuM9qnQvjkvCL3nsp6YnmblKxeurZtUmDJ2a/s1600/P1188604.jpg" /></a></div>
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Social media is addictive. I spend most of my waking hours on it, scrolling through Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Youtube. Watching people's seemingly perfect lives fly past me. Bikini bodies that look almost air brushed, high end dresses being worn whilst standing on balconies looking out at the most amazing sky lines. From the outside looking in, it can look like these people have the most perfect lives. </div>
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A photograph is a snapshot in time. It doesn't give background. It doesn't show the camera, the lighting, the 3 hour drive to reach the photoshoot location, the 5am wake up time to make sure your makeup is flawless and the lighting on the day is just right. It doesn't show the 300 other shots that you took that were blurry, badly cropped or just missing the top of your head. It doesn't show the £400 a day bill you're paying your photographer, the make shift changing room round the corner that also doubles up as your car. All of these things are less than glamorous and are usually involved in the professional imagery you see on peoples feeds nowadays. Taking good photographs that appeal to the likes of you and me, scrolling through Instagram and Twitter feeds, isn't as easy as it might look. </div>
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Even though I've managed to nail the photograph side of things for the most part, I'm always questioning myself. Asking why I'm not a hugely successful blogger after years of having a blog and not really reaching many of my personal goals I've set myself. I think one of the reasons I've not quite "made it" yet is circumstantial; I work in a very stressful job Monday to Friday and it's not always easy to find the motivation to come home of an evening and write til the early hours of the morning. What I've tried to do, instead of punishing myself for not putting more into my Instagram and Blog, is make the small amount of time I do have go as far as possible. I keep my Saturdays pretty much completely free and I immerse myself into creating engaging and artistic content that I'm proud of. </div>
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When I'm feeling down, and I start comparing myself to other people who I feel are more successful as me, I remind myself:</div>
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- Everything's Relative -</div>
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You don't know the struggles of others and you may never know. Don't assume someones life is perfect just because they have what you deem to be the "perfect body" or the "perfect life"</div>
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- If You Want It, Go Get It -</div>
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Ultimately, you're the only one holding you back. If you want to be successful, there's no reason why you can't be. Make the effort. Put the hours in. No-one else is going to do it for you. </div>
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- Don't Compare, Instead be Inspired - </div>
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If you come across someone in your life that you are tempted to compare yourself to, try and let them inspire you instead. Feel free to reach out, ask them questions about how they got to where they did. People are innately helpful, especially in the blogging and social media industry so don't be shy. </div>
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I love social media. I really do. For the most part it inspires me and makes me want to do better. The influencers out there that I look up to are all hugely successful and for good reason; they work extremely hard and are talented in what they do. That being said, on a really down day, it can be hard to look at their accounts. On these down days try and remember that everyone's goals are different and individuality is key. Take inspiration from other people and create something that's your own. </div>
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Dress - Cari's Closet - <a href="https://www.cariscloset.ie/dress-sales/">HERE</a></div>
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Boots - River Island - similar <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/search?biw=1280&bih=648&tbm=shop&ei=WYZsWsOhH8jAgAbw2oa4DQ&q=river+island+black+heeled+boots+gold+heel&oq=river+island+black+heeled+boots+gold+heel&gs_l=psy-ab.3...19173.21246.0.21440.14.12.2.0.0.0.82.608.11.11.0....0...1.1.64.psy-ab..1.0.0....0.4Z3LPk4RS7w#spd=17311440246458696865">HERE</a></div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-47215724986795065932018-01-21T09:21:00.001-08:002018-01-27T06:04:30.168-08:00My Plans for 2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXpBxqUMryoBtXyvBGgSiUE_n7QdURXM6ku3zyNC34lxNPhh3jQyqFO-wRAgvnIeANM9nfoPY6oF-_2hWgc0-8k7-7XS3dAN6Ok5TSNSj4zu4alecskK7vmJt4lMBReS9_N5vEMGzugygg/s1600/2018+Planning+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXpBxqUMryoBtXyvBGgSiUE_n7QdURXM6ku3zyNC34lxNPhh3jQyqFO-wRAgvnIeANM9nfoPY6oF-_2hWgc0-8k7-7XS3dAN6Ok5TSNSj4zu4alecskK7vmJt4lMBReS9_N5vEMGzugygg/s1600/2018+Planning+.jpg" /></a></div>
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For my first post of 2018 I thought I'd do a bit of a "planning" post, not only because I love to plan but also because I wanted to give you a sneak preview of the kind of things I want to cover this year. I always seem to make blogging promises I can't keep, like how frequently I'll post things so instead of trying to post a unrealistic amount of times a week, I thought I'd try and change the diversity of the subject matter I create. Not only will this make things way more interesting for me, but it'll hopefully keep you entertained. Well that's the plan anyway!</div>
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The main thing I want to cover more of is makeup and skincare. It's a huge passion of mine and something I've not shared much about over the last 6 months. There's loads of great products I've been trying out recently like the <a href="https://www.nipandfab.com/skincare/range/glycolic-fix">Nip + Fab Glycolic</a> range as well as some new makeup looks and makeup brands. I'm going to try and do some feature posts on a few of these products over the next few weeks so keep an eye out. </div>
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Photography is a seriously tricky thing to get right during the winter months. Mainly because natural light is almost none existent but also because the days are so long; I literally get zero day time hours after work to take decent pictures. I'm going to be a little less harsh on myself though and be more candid with my photography. I've realised that the blogs I love to read are usually pretty casual with things like that and capturing the moment is more important than how "artistic" the shots are. I'm looking to be more relaxed with the content I create in general really. Quality over quantity is still my motto, but I want to enjoy what I do rather than stressing myself out about the photo quality. </div>
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I'm hoping to start my YouTube channel up again too with some cool video content. I can't say when this will be yet as I'm on the look out for a new camera but I'm hoping to get something published before summer. In terms of camera inspo I'm looking for recommendations. At the moment the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoOceM8Aik8">Lumix GH5S</a> is a front runner because of it's capability in low light (check out the video below of it in action it's pretty impressive!) </div>
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Lastly I want to start doing way more restaurant and getaway reviews. Food is a huge passion of mine and I'd love to share some of my favourite places to eat and drink with you guys. My first review is going to be on the way in the next few weeks but if there's anywhere local to Sussex that you'd like me to visit and try out for you, be sure to let me know.</div>
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See you guys soon</div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-85007697099641870242017-12-10T14:21:00.002-08:002017-12-10T14:22:54.097-08:00The Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With Christmas only a few weeks away it's officially gift guide time. In the past I've done a Gift Guide for Her followed by a Gift Guide for Him but this year I thought I'd do something a little different. So here's my ultimate gift guide; an A-Z of what to get your loved ones this Christmas, whether they're a fashion lover, beauty maven or tech savvy I've got you covered. </div>
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- The Fashion Lover -</div>
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Fashion Lover's can be hard to buy for as they're usually pretty picky when it comes to their clothes. I have a few in my family and the first thing I always do is find out their favourite place to shop. If it's high street, I'll get them a voucher. Some people say it's a thoughtless gift but personally, I'd rather give someone money towards a spending spree at their favourite store than an item of clothing that they might never wear. If vouchers really aren't your thing though I've thought of a few ideas for what to get the fashion lovers in your lives:</div>
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HIM - Cashmere is literally everywhere this season. If you can stretch to splurging a little on something good quality, then I'd definitely recommend something like a cashmere scarf. Selfridges do a gorgeous Herringbone one from Johnstons <a href="http://go.magik.ly/ml/88hu/">HERE</a> but if you're on more of a budget, H&M have a reasonable one for just under £60 <a href="http://go.magik.ly/ml/88hw/">HERE</a>.</div>
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HER - Womens fashion can be a hard one to get right but there's a few key seasonal trends that you can stick to. Slogan Tee's are really popular at the moment. I bought this cute little cropped one from Miss Selfridge a few months back and it's still in stock <a href="http://www.very.co.uk/miss-selfridge-petite-favourite-slogan-t-shirt-white/1600202860.prd">HERE</a>. If you'd prefer to stay away from clothing though and stick to accessories then a good pair of leather gloves is always a winner. Aspinal of London have some gorgeous <a href="https://www.aspinaloflondon.com/ladies-collection/ladies-leather-gloves/ladies-cashmere-lined-leather-gloves">cashmere lined</a> ones but if you're looking for something a little less pricey, H&M have some gorgeous budget ones <a href="http://www2.hm.com/en_gb/productpage.0218829002.html">HERE</a></div>
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- The Beauty Maven -</div>
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HER - When it comes to shopping for the beauty loving ladies in your life you can't go wrong with L'Occitane. They have some great <a href="https://uk.loccitane.com/christmas-gifts-for-her,83,1,78702,0.htm">Christmas gift ideas for her</a> which include a beauty advent calendar for under £50 (actual value is almost £90) and some great value for money gift sets including their <a href="https://uk.loccitane.com/nourishing-shea-butter-collection,83,1,29776,1144487.htm#s=78702">Shea Butter Collection</a>. Clarins is also another great brand. Boots stock some of their most popular products <a href="http://www.boots.com/search/gift+sets#facet:-10026710897114105110115&productBeginIndex:0&orderBy:&pageView:&minPrice:&maxPrice:&pageSize:&">HERE</a>, perfect for mum! Liz Earle have some lovely sets too; anything that includes their <a href="http://go.magik.ly/ml/88i1/">hot cloth cleanser</a> will go down a treat.</div>
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HIM - If you know a man who's really into his beauty regime then there's a few key brands that you'll need to look into. Kiehl's do some great male grooming products including their <a href="https://www.kiehls.co.uk/men-s/category/moisturisers-for-men/facial-fuel/555.html#start=1&cgid=men-moisturizers">Facial Fuel moisturiser</a> and their <a href="https://www.kiehls.co.uk/men-s/category/eye-lip-care-for-men/eye-alert/628.html#start=4&cgid=men-moisturizers">Eye Alert eye cream</a>. Neal's Yard also do a <a href="http://www.nealsyardremedies.com/bath-and-body/body/nyr-mens-body-care/">men's range</a> which includes cologne, body wash and moisturiser. Both brands use organic, natural ingredients with Neals Yard's products being vegan friendly too. </div>
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- The Tech Savvy -</div>
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HIM - If he's into his music then you can't go wrong with a good wireless speaker. The best of the best has got to be from Bang and Olufsen; their <a href="https://www.beoplay.com/products/beolit17">Beolit 17</a> is the newest in their portable Bluetooth speaker range and boasts 24 hour battery life and 360 surround sound. The designs are gorgeous too. If you're on more of a budget then there's some great alternatives from Sony <a href="https://www.pcworld.co.uk/gbuk/sony-portable-speakers/audio-and-headphones/audio/hifi-systems-and-speakers/747_7168_71819_49_ba00010759-bv00308797/xx-criteria.html">HERE</a>. I have one of their <a href="https://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/audio-and-headphones/audio/hifi-systems-and-speakers/sony-srs-xb20-portable-bluetooth-wireless-speaker-black-10160608-pdt.html#srcid=11026">Bluetooth water resistant speakers</a> and I absolutely love it.</div>
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HER - There's a new addition to the GHD hairdryer family. <a href="http://go.magik.ly/ml/88i5/">The Nocturne Hairdryer</a> claims to be able to give you silky, frizz free styles in half the time of conventional dryers. With it's sleek design and promise to cut my hair drying time down in the morning I'm definitely sold. Looking for something a little less pricey? Then the Braun HD730 has great reviews and can be found <a href="http://go.magik.ly/ml/88iy/">HERE</a><br />
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- The Perfume Collector -</div>
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HIM - YSL have a new fragrance out called "<a href="http://go.magik.ly/ml/88je/">Y</a>". Described as being fresh, aquatic and oriental it definitely sounds like a contrast, but one that I'm sure YSL have managed to nail. Scents are always difficult to choose unless you know the person well, but I always recommend sticking to the big names if you're unsure. </div>
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HER - Armani have just released their new His and Hers range called <a href="http://go.magik.ly/ml/88jg/">Because It's You</a>. The two fragrances are supposed to compliment one another when worn by both parties which I think it quite a cute idea. The Eau de Parfum has notes of vanilla and musk which sounds perfect for this time of year.<br />
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- The Foodie -</div>
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There's a few different things you can do for the foodie lovers in your lives. First I'd recommend checking out their recipe book shelves to see who their favourite celeb chefs are. Jamie Oliver's new book "<a href="http://go.magik.ly/ml/88j2/">5 Ingredients</a>" has just come out so for the family chef who loves simple, easy to cook dishes this book could be ideal. Alternatively you could take them to their favourite restaurant, or how about putting together a collection of their favourite ingredients to cook with; maybe some special oils, seasoning etc? </div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-21602622172760163992017-12-04T14:50:00.002-08:002017-12-10T14:23:02.796-08:00My Top Series to Binge Watch this Winter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For me, winter is all about snuggling up in front of the TV and watching your favourite box set. In summer I'm out and about enjoying the nice weather but as soon as the colder months kick in, I can't think of anything worse than being outside. As a lot of you know I moved out earlier in the summer. I'm yet to sort myself out a proper TV for my room (I've had my eye on the <a href="http://www.panasonic.com/uk/consumer/televisions/4KTV/tx-65dx902b.html">Panasonic Ultra HD 4K TV</a> for a while now) and until I do, I'm sticking to watching my favourite series on my laptop. And what better way to hibernate than to binge watch an entire season of your favourite TV show in the comfort of your own bed?</div>
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Since spending my weekends and evenings binge watching box sets I figured I'd become a bit of a conosier in the art so I decided to compile a list of my absolute favourite series to stay up late watching.</div>
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First up we have the nations (and my) number 1, <a href="https://www.hbo.com/game-of-thrones">Game of Thrones</a>. Now I'm not ashamed to tell you that I managed to get through seasons 1-6 in a matter of weeks when the most recent season hit Sky. On a few occasions I got through an entire series in a day. For the record... One season is 10 episodes and each episode is 40+ minutes long. That's some serious dedication for you! It's hard to describe GoT's to those who haven't watched it. I'd be tempted to say it's a mixture of Lord of the Rings and the more recent Harry Potter films but I know people who have watched both of these and absolutely hate them but love Game of Thrones. If you like magic, epic fight scenes, great story lines and historical drama's that have you gripped to the edge of your seat then I'd say you'll love this series. At the moment the only way you can watch Game of Thrones is by buying the <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Game-Thrones-Season-1-7-DVD/dp/B07539JQTG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1512427219&sr=8-1&keywords=game+of+thrones+box+sets">box set</a>. I think season 7 is still available on Sky Go though. </div>
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Next up we have an oldie but a goodie, and that's <a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/70242311">Orange is the New Black</a>. I know this has been around for a while now and it's certainly nothing new, but when it first came out I was seriously hooked. Things have tailed off for me since a few character changes (I won't give anything away) but I'm sure I'll get back into it now I've got more time on my hands. The series itself is about a group of women in an American prison. All of the ladies have different stories as to why they are there and each individuals past is shown as the series goes on. It's hugely gripping and the acting is amazing. You'll fall in love with some of the characters, even the ones you thought you'd end up hating. OITNB is available on Netflix. </div>
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Another favourite of mine at the moment is <a href="https://www.netflix.com/search?q=house&jbv=70178217&jbp=0&jbr=0">House of Cards</a>. I'm not ashamed to admit I've tailed off watching this since the recent stories hit the papers about Kevin Spacey, but that shouldn't detract from the quality of the series itself and the other actors in it. If you're into hard hitting American political dramas filled with sex, violence and deceit then this is definitely for you. The way Kevin Spacey spends some of the time talking directly to the camera as if he's talking to you is a touch I really enjoyed whilst watching this series. It gives it such personal edge. House of Cards is available on Netflix. </div>
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Another classic is Grey's Anatomy. I first got into this series almost 10 years ago now and I've been hooked ever since. I'm pretty sure they're on their 14th series now and as far as I am aware, it's still going strong. I purchased a Now TV subscription a few months back and they just added the entire series 1-14 so I've gone back to the beginning and started re watching them all again. I love doing this with old programs that've been going for years. Oh and Patrick Dempsey is UNREAL. Just... Watch it and see. </div>
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I can't do a series run through without mentioning <a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/80057281">Stranger Things</a>. This is probably my second favourite series to binge watch after Game of Thrones. If you're into classic 80's films such as The Goonies and Lost Boys then this will have you hooked. The actors are fantastic and the story line is out of this world. Quite literally! Sit down, grab yourself a cup of tea and some biscuits and be prepared to not leave your room for at least a week. Stranger Things is available on Netflix. </div>
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Last but by no means least I wanted to talk about <a href="https://www.netflix.com/watch/80011822?trackId=13752289&tctx=0%2C0%2C9f5fcc75d1b2438297b7b48147336111ea3f8afc%3Adfdaeaca628974b1b7032cbd990b29529457c4ae">Suits</a>. What with the recent royal engagement it seems only fair to talk about the program that made Meghan Markle famous. I find Suits such an easy series to dip in and out of. It's not too heavy and the story lines are relatively predictable without being boring (yes that is possible!) I'm a little bit obsessed with Harvey and his protoge Mike; both are very strong characters in their own right. If you're into modern "Mad Men" style series set in New Yorks Manhattan then this is definitely something you'll enjoy. Suits is available on Netflix. </div>
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So now I've covered off my favourite box sets to binge watch I thought I'd quickly go through a few that are on my "to watch" list:</div>
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<a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/80025172">Narcos</a> - drugs? Mexico? I'm not entirely sure what it's about but I've heard great things. I think it's quite similar to Breaking Bad if that's your kind of thing</div>
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<a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b045fz8r">Peaky Blinders</a> - OK so I might've started watching this already but I'm still a little unsure on what it's about. Gangsters in the 1920s maybe? The guy from Jurassic Park is in it and he has a pretty epic Northern Irish accent!</div>
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<a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/70298433">Power</a> - I literally have no idea what this is about aside from the fact it's set in America and it's about drug dealers and nightclub owners. Sounds pretty fun though and my friends have been telling me to watch it for ages. </div>
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<a href="https://www.netflix.com/title/70136135">Mad Men</a> - now this is a cheat one because I've actually seen this already and I LOVED it but I want to re watch it. So I guess this should be on a separate list for that? Maybe? Who cares. It's set in the 1960s and is all about the world of advertising. The costumes are to die for and the characters are always smoking cigarettes and drinking Old Fashioned's. </div>
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So there we have it, my Top Series to Binge Watch this Winter. Do you have any series you're looking to start?</div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-60996660582846396662017-12-04T13:28:00.002-08:002018-01-27T06:04:44.528-08:00Life Lessons from 2017<div style="text-align: center;">
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2017 is winding down now and it's about this time of year I start to reflect. I reflect on the things I've achieved, the things I haven't, and what the year has taught me. I usually begin making resolutions around about now too; pay off debt, start saving money, join the gym again. The usual stuff that tends to find its way onto my iPhone notes section never to be looked at again. Until November 2018 rolls around and I remember I promised myself I'd be a stone lighter by now with one less credit card and the member of about 5 different sports clubs. </div>
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It's been an interesting year for me I think we can all agree. I became single for the first time in about 5 or so years, moved house. Twice. You've heard that story so many times you're probably getting bored and I don't blame you. This post isn't about what's happened in my life in the past year though. It's about the things I've learnt. This year has been a huge eye opener for me in many ways and I wanted to share with you a few life lessons that 2017 has taught me:</div>
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#1 - Dua Lipa makes rules to live by</div>
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That song came out at the exact right time for me. Along with the rest of the female population who had spent the last few weeks, months, even years being strung along my some total f**k boy, I certainly felt 100 times better when I stopped picking up that phone at 1am and stopped letting him in. Thank you, Dua Lipa, for making me realise I deserve so much better. </div>
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#2 - Enjoy yourself and do what makes you happy</div>
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I'd spent a lot of my life prior to this year doing things that made other people happy. When you're in a relationship there's a lot of compromising to be had and whilst I know it's important, it was so lovely to spend some time not having to compromise on what I wanted to do, who I wanted to see and generally how I wanted to live my life. I've had so much fun this year being independent and not answering to anyone. I've said "yes" to so many amazing things from gigs to social events to parties. I'll definitely remember this year as the one I reconnected with my friends and myself. </div>
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#3 - Hold on to good friends </div>
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I sent out invites to my 29th Birthday party a few months ago and about a third of the people who said they'd come actually did. At first I was angry and hurt that most people didn't even have the courtesy to tell me that they weren't coming on the day. But then I realised they'd done me a favour; they'd allowed me to have a room full of people who actually cared and wanted to celebrate with me. Good friends are really hard to come by but when you realise who those people are in your life, it's important that you keep hold of them. </div>
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#4 - Not everyone has the same moral compass as you</div>
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This has been a bitter pill to swallow but something I'm slowly coming to terms with. I'm a hugely moral person: if someone is being wronged and it's unjust I feel I have a moral obligation to step in. It's how I've been brought up and how most of my close friends operate too which is why we're close friends! Unfortunately, I've come to realise that not everyone lives by the same moral code as me and it's something I have to get used to. Whilst I do still struggle to understand how people can be OK spending time with someone who has been unkind or bullied others, I have to accept that some people just don't care. </div>
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#5 - Try and see things from other peoples perspective</div>
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I've really tried hard over the last year to ask questions when analysing people's behaviour. Empathy is really powerful, not only because it allows you the opportunity to understand why someone is behaving the way they are, but because in doing so, it can give you a totally different perspective. I've tried really hard to think about how I come across to other people too and how my actions and behaviour can influence people's opinions of me. </div>
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#6 - The best things happen when you least expect it</div>
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I met some of my favourite people this year on random nights out and spontaneous trips away. I've had the most fun on the nights I least expected it and found myself in situations I'd never have dreamed I'd be in in a million years. All the surprising things that have happened to me have made me realise that everything happens for a reason; I'm exactly where I should be doing exactly what I'm supposed to be doing. </div>
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#7 - How to be happy</div>
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I can honestly say this year has been one of the best years of my life. It's been hard, don't get me wrong, but I really believe that this year was sent to test me and to make me realise what I need in my life to be happy. I've never smiled as much, danced as crazily (at the expense of my ankle) and laughed as hard. I've made amazing memories, some really strong connections with friends both old and new, and I've become a much stronger person in the process. </div>
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I know that some people will be looking forward to saying goodbye to 2017. In a way I will too; it'll be a relief to close the door on a year that bought me a broken heart and some broken friendships. But generally speaking I want to think positively and on 31st December. I plan on concentrating on all the great things that happened. I'll be celebrating the year I finally learnt how to be happy and enjoy myself. </div>
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Do you have any life lessons from 2017? </div>
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Coat - Shein - <a href="https://www.shein.co.uk/Faux-Fur-Coat-p-320109-cat-1735.html">HERE</a></div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-25407906908977943332017-10-30T13:00:00.000-07:002017-12-10T14:23:14.490-08:00Autumn Beauty Trends: Botanicals and Sleep Focus<div style="text-align: center;">
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I've not done a product review over on the blog for a while now, so when <a href="https://www.thehut.com/">thehut.com </a>got in contact offering me the chance to review some of the products from their Sleep and Botanicals range I jumped at the opportunity. I've always been a huge lover of products that aide sleep in some way as well as anything with botanical ingredients so I was really excited to see the products they'd picked out for me. In terms of the trends themselves, Botanicals and Sleep Focus are two they've specifically picked out for AW17. Their full trend guide can be found <a href="http://www.thehut.com/blog/beauty-and-grooming/beauty-makeup-trends-report-aw17/">HERE </a>. </div>
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From the sleep range we have the Deep Sleep Pillow Spray from <a href="https://www.thehut.com/brands/this-works.list">thisworks</a>. It claims to help you fall asleep faster, naturally and also claims to help you wake up feeling refreshed. I've never used anything from the brand before but I'd heard really great things so I was looking forward to trying this. The spray itself is pretty strong scent wise so a little goes a long way. I've used it every night since I got it but to be honest, you only need to spray it on your pillow maybe two, three times a week. The scent sticks around which is good. In terms of whether it works or not, it's hard to say. I'm someone who really struggles with sleeping especially when I'm stressed. I've been using this for a week now and I haven't noticed a huge difference in the quality of my sleep, however the scent is definitely relaxing. It has very strong lavender base notes which is something I personally love. I'll keep you posted on how I get on with this over on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sophy_victoria/">my Instagram</a> so give me a follow over there for more info! </div>
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The second product is from <a href="https://www.thehut.com/brands/jurlique.list">Jurlique</a> and is a hydrating face mist. Again I'd not used anything from the brand before but I'd heard really good things so I was excited to give this product a go. My skin has the tendency to be quite oily so I'm always looking for moisturising alternatives, especially for the day time. This stuff is perfect in the mornings before applying makeup because it sinks straight into the skin. It leaves me feeling hydrated without any kind of residue and it doesn't interfere with the consistency of my foundation. The smell is also lovely; so soothing! I'd also recommend it if you have dry skin and are in need of a freshen up during the day. It gives a lovely dewy finish and is perfect at freshening up tired looking makeup.<br />
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Let me know if you've tried either of these products, I'd love to know what you think!<br />
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-26800302111425093542017-10-09T14:47:00.000-07:002017-10-09T14:52:45.421-07:00Layering for Autumn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Weather wise October always throws me as it's such an in between month. It's not quite cold enough for furry jackets, hats and scarfs but it's not warm enough to do away with coats entirely. That's why I find it's the perfect month to start layering up with a few key items, perhaps even some thinner coats you'd consider wearing during Spring and the beginning of Summer. I'm all about making the most out of the clothes in my wardrobe and layering is such a great way of doing this during these "in between season" months. </div>
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I've recently been looking at duster coats as my transitional jacket of choice before it gets really chilly. As I'm quite small I find it hard to get long line clothing that doesn't swamp me but this <a href="http://www.very.co.uk/river-island-duster-coat/1600202776.prd">yellow one from River Island</a> fits really well. They are one of a a few stores that do a good, snug fitting size 6 that isn't unrealistically tiny (ahem H&M) and good for those of us on the shorter side. I'm loving slogan tee's at the moment too and this <a href="http://www.very.co.uk/miss-selfridge-petite-favourite-slogan-t-shirt-white/1600202860.prd">slightly cropped one from Miss Selfridge</a> is the perfect combo with my <a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/moto-black-jamie-jeans-4575923?geoip=noredirect&cmpid=ppc_pla_UK_ip&utm_medium=cpc&tsrc=vdna&istCompanyId=38aa0d7f-6514-4cb3-bbdc-df0d32d48b7f&istItemId=llxrrwlpt&istBid=tztx&gclid=Cj0KCQjwvOzOBRDGARIsAICjxodAwQiJWC9BVYFPYqRAVKomqGW6XUQ6kIkIAQSIXvOFOa-R1fXKiQ0aAm7dEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">high waisted Topshop Jamie jeans</a>. <a href="http://www.very.co.uk/river-island-river-island-cooper-heeled-front-zip-boot/1600202414.prd">These boots</a> (also from River Island) add a bit of a smart element to the outfit but you could just as easily dress this down with some trainers. I think I'd be tempted to go with my high top Converse to carry on the monochrome element. My scarf is an old one from ASOS (similar <a href="http://www.asos.com/asos/asos-oversized-square-scarf-in-blown-up-check/prd/7928566?clr=blackwhite&SearchQuery=asos+oversized+scarf&pgesize=36&pge=0&totalstyles=61&gridsize=3&gridrow=1&gridcolumn=3">HERE</a>). I had a huge thing for blanket style shawls last year and I'm determined to carry on the trend this season too; who doesn't love snuggling up in a huge rug when it's freezing cold!</div>
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So that's an example of how I use layering to utilise some of the lighter items in my wardrobe. It might be officially Autumn but that doesn't mean t-shirts and thin jackets are out of the question. Grab yourself some ankle boots, an oversized scarf and rock that layered look!</div>
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Sophy</div>
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<br />Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-30303178684694416502017-10-02T12:12:00.004-07:002017-10-09T14:12:26.544-07:00My Go To Autumn Makeup Look<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Autumn is my favourite time of year makeup wise. Dark lips and heavy eye makeup is what I live for and I spend most of the summer months counting down the days until I can bust out the smokey eyes. </div>
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I have a few favourite autumn makeup combinations but this one is probably the one I wear most often. It's hard to photograph eyeshadow (anyone else find the same issue?) because it never seems to do the colours justice. These pictures definitely don't do the berry element to this look any favours but I can assure you it's there!</div>
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Base wise I don't tend to switch things up all that much. Once I find a good foundation I stick to it. At the moment I'm loving <a href="http://www.feelunique.com/p/LOreal-Paris-Infallible-24H-Matte-Mattifying-Foundation-35ml?option=21975&gclid=Cj0KCQjwx8fOBRD7ARIsAPVq-NlTMp4z8iFqAa-qUhzu1bGHeIeMcqTdRemapTX6IApE_AE7L_GuL8gaAi_dEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">L'Oreal's 24 hour Matte foundation</a>. It's such a good budget foundation if you're looking for something that keeps you matte for most of the day. I've used a mixture of the <a href="http://www.boots.com/collection-lasting-perfection-concealer-10196692?cm_mmc=bmm-_-Google+Boots+PLAs-_-BAU-_-C=PLA+-+Offers_Collection&gclid=Cj0KCQjwx8fOBRD7ARIsAPVq-Nlzh1CupC2iBoX-9LXqnikWDScn2zFMdI-BIvxQUFix9FzQVvG51cwaAqwcEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Collection Lasting Perfection concealer</a> and the <a href="https://www.superdrug.com/Maybelline/Maybelline-Eraser-Eye-Concealer-Neutralizer-6-8ml/p/730241?gclid=Cj0KCQjwx8fOBRD7ARIsAPVq-Nk-bz6PsktyOqaEGplw0e84uiLt2pq3O2b_bF3BaaDx9EN3jZ2h2YsaAvSREALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CKTwi9HQ0tYCFXAe0wodhfoLiQ">Maybelline Eye Eraser.</a> To confuse things a little I use the Eye Eraser on my chin and cheeks (yup. I'm crazy) and the Lasting Perfection under my eyes. Don't ask me why, I just prefer using them that way around!</div>
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I'm using my <a href="http://www.qvcuk.com/Tarte-Amazonian-Clay-Full-Cover-Airbrush-Powder-Foundation-%26-Brush.product.205119.html">Tarte Amazonian Clay powder</a> at the moment (blast from the past) but that's only because I've run out of my MAC pressed powder. I've just purchased the Laura Mercier powder actually which I'm looking forward to trying. </div>
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Blusher wise I'm using my go to <a href="http://www.selfridges.com/GB/en/cat/nyx-professional-makeup-baked-blush_425-3004455-K4119700/?previewAttribute=Solstice&cm_mmc=PLA-_-Google-_-BEAUTY-_-NYXPROFESSIONALMAKEUP&$$&_$ja=tsid:35948%7Ccid:198779374%7Cagid:10881871774%7Ctid:aud-51965299119:pla-338618645948%7Ccrid:40370636134%7Cnw:g%7Crnd:239678329010042874%7Cdvc:c%7Cadp:1o1%7Cmt:%7Cloc:9041127&gclid=Cj0KCQjwx8fOBRD7ARIsAPVq-NmmF27b6bUQz9Gd4sDEHQfyLNJBCF3gM18-EUwUKTLe-V5u_Y0jymYaAgM8EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">NYX Baked Blush in the shade Solstice</a>. Bronzer is <a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/laura-mercier-matte-radiance-baked-powder/p457724?sku=231967219&s_kwcid=2dx92700016843732672&tmad=c&tmcampid=2&gclid=Cj0KCQjwx8fOBRD7ARIsAPVq-Nknbkbn07Vj5Y96KPXFXLc6dc3O0EfhUdAm5f4NcLz4DJNQDA8eZl0aAl0CEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Laura Mercier again in the shade Bronze 2</a>. I decided to go against highlighter but usually I stick with my <a href="http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/13849/30735/products/makeup/face/powder/mineralize-skinfinish?gclid=Cj0KCQjwx8fOBRD7ARIsAPVq-NkYiOSizwAMvL1kB-i6tAwVfc4LJdve0yM841Yj5DRHIo10FstnThoaAn8AEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CNmIoKPR0tYCFZQR0wodUCoOeg#/shade/Soft_%26_Gentle">MAC's Soft and Gentle</a>. I just love the colour and intensity of it and I've found no other highlighter has quite matched up to it if I'm honest. </div>
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Now onto eyes; I have two main eye looks at the moment. One is way more berry/ orangey than this one but I thought I'd go with the toned down version for this post. I've used the <a href="http://www.loraccosmetics.com/make-up_pro-palette.html">Lorac Pro Pallette</a> to create this look. I started off with the Urban Decay Eyeprimer Potion to prime my eyelids. Then I went in with the shade Taupe all over the lid followed by Garnet. I find the Taupe shade gives a great base for most smokey eyes and helps build up the dark colours. I went over the base shades with the colour Pewter. I then shaded the outer corner of my eyes with Espresso, blended the look together using my eyeshadow blending brush (Spectrum do some great ones <a href="http://www.asos.com/spectrum/spectrum-the-glam-clam-10-piece-brush-set/prd/8694129?affid=14173&channelref=product+search&mk=abc&currencyid=1&ppcadref=761030383%7C46655343998%7Caud-302123745541%3Apla-348656680003&_cclid=v3_0a1b56f5-7da9-567b-bac2-ba7ab4c9660c&gclid=Cj0KCQjwx8fOBRD7ARIsAPVq-NkFHixTRevjd3IxZXOiqP3ARx1QtdBMTRwflrhg8Iok81ajKtg_2hgaAq6sEALw_wcB">HERE</a>) and then put a strip of Gold down the middle. To highlight the inner corner I used the shade Nude and then finished off the look with some <a href="https://www.superdrug.com/Make-Up/Eye-Makeup/Eye-Pencils/Collection-Kohl-Eyeliner-Black-1/p/455502?gclid=Cj0KCQjwx8fOBRD7ARIsAPVq-Nn7nAbYnmlN8LHAVmhS9g9qsenLjWS73IcWfpzXLa2eE3O2a1A6UsAaAqcqEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CJChjvjR0tYCFQwe0wodRbgGhA">kohl eyeliner from Collection</a> and my all time favourite mascara from <a href="https://www.superdrug.com/Make-Up/Eye-Makeup/Mascara/Maybelline-Lash-Sensational-Mascara-01-Very-Black-9-5ml/p/348705?gclid=Cj0KCQjwx8fOBRD7ARIsAPVq-NmrzTOPIEDUYtGuf721PlaFmXT8Pc3QCImfEuMSKGyR4lpaIDmhCmIaAgM2EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CJKS9YXS0tYCFS0S0wodXbYOWA">Maybelline; Lash Sensational. </a></div>
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I've used a matte L'Oreal lipstick for this look in the shade <a href="https://www.superdrug.com/L%27Oreal-Paris/L%27Oreal-Color-Riche-Matte-Obsession-636-Mahogany-Stu/p/723963">Mahogany Studs</a>. I can honestly say that L'Oreal do the best drugstore lipsticks in my opinion. Such great staying power and really good pigmentation. </div>
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So there's my first makeup look for autumn to kick off October! I hope you enjoyed seeing how I put something a little more heavy together. Any recommendations for autumn inspired makeup welcome!</div>
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Sophy </div>
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<br />Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-75063829451528506402017-09-25T14:31:00.001-07:002017-10-01T13:38:58.783-07:00Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn<div style="text-align: center;">
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Autumn is a time of year I dread and look forward to in equal measures. On the one hand it's time to bring out the warm jumpers, ankle boots and dark lipstick which are a few of my favourite things fashion and beauty wise. On the other hand the nights get longer and the days get colder. As I sit here in my favourite cafe near where I live I'm reflecting on the summer that's just gone. I'm always happier in the warmer months and this summer in particular is going to be really hard for me to say goodbye to. </div>
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My friend Lia shared a post on her Instagram a few days ago about losing friends. It was a poem by Rupi Kaur called "The Underrated Heartache". From what I can tell the poem isn't about experiencing a death of a friend, but the loss of them after a falling out or after a distance creeps in. It's common and is something I've experienced before, but it's not something we talk about all that often. </div>
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People sometimes underestimate the profound impact they have on other people's lives. When someone you've been so close to becomes almost a stranger to you it's a difficult feeling to deal with. It takes an awful lot for me to let someone into my life, whether that be a prospective partner or friend and I find the loss of these people impacts me greatly. I'm a sucker for reminiscing and I have a tendency to live in the past a bit. This means I tend to dwell a lot on "what could have been" which is a really dangerous mindset to get into.<br />
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This Autumn has come at the perfect time for me. I see it as a season of new beginnings and whilst this summer was a special one for me I'm uncharacteristically looking forward to what the latter part of this year has to offer. I see Autumn as a season of getting rid of the old to make way for the new and I'm all about embracing that at the moment. </div>
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I plan on spending the next few months surrounding myself with close friends. The kind that have stuck around and always will. I'm so lucky I have people in my life who support me and encourage me to be happy and to be honest, if it wasn't for these people over the last few months I'd really have struggled.<br />
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If you're going through a "friend break up" or a break up of any kind try and remember what's meant to be will be. If someone has left your life it's either because they weren't supposed to be in it at all, or because they weren't supposed to be in it right now. If you're worried about letting go of summer and heading into the colder months try and embrace the new beginnings that Autumn has to offer.<br />
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Jumper - Vintage<br />
Jeans - Topshop (<a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/moto-black-jamie-jeans-4575923?bi=20&ps=20">HERE</a>)<br />
Boots - River Island (<a href="https://www.riverisland.com/p/black-zip-pointed-toe-stiletto-leather-boots-706429">HERE</a>)<br />
Bag - Mulberry<br />
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-3192888612297177572017-09-05T13:47:00.004-07:002017-09-07T04:36:51.406-07:00The List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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OK so I'm back with another post about being single, but this time I thought I'd talk about something a little different. In fact not only is this something a little different, it's something I never thought I'd post about online, mainly because:</div>
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1) I tend to talk about this kind of thing with my closest friends</div>
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2) I wasn't sure anyone else actually thought about this kind of thing in as much detail as I did</div>
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If you're reading this and you know me well, you'll know I like to plan ahead. And when I say plan ahead I mean plan my 30th birthday party a year and a half in advance/ budget my finances for the rest of the year and then continue into 2018, 2019 and then 2020. I'm a planner. Oh and I'm also a list maker.</div>
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Before I was single this time around I found myself aimlessly wandering around going out with guys that gave me attention or guys that I <i style="font-weight: bold;">thought </i>were right for me. Turns out, although I've had some great relationships, the guys I was with just weren't exactly what I was looking for. Finding myself single at 28 made me re-evalute things a lot and whilst I was thinking things through, I decided to note down some of the key things I was looking for from a guy. Now I'm under no illusions here.. Relationships are about compromise and no one person is completely perfect. That being said, how on earth am I going to know what to look for if I don't at least agree with myself on some of the key things I'm after in a guy? So here it is, my "list" as it stands on September 5th 2017:</div>
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1. K I N D</div>
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The guy has to be kind. This is a complete non negotiable. I'm not talking about being kind for his own benefit or because he thinks it's the right thing to do, just <b><i>genuinely</i></b> kind. My favourite type of people are the ones who ask if you're OK when they can see things might not be quite right, and who offer their support when someone is struggling. I want a guy to do this for me but also the people around him; empathy is such an attractive quality in a person. </div>
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2. M A T U R I T Y</div>
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Maturity can sometimes be mistaken for being boring. I'm not talking about being old before your time, just mature enough to understand what it means to be an adult. Being able to financially support yourself for example. I want a guy who knows how to iron his own shirts, cook a few meals, generally be self sufficient. To understand that a woman's place isn't always in the kitchen and to know that every weekend isn't about going out and getting absolutely smashed with your mates. <b><i>Balance</i></b> is the key word here. </div>
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3. S E N S E O F H U M O U R</div>
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A sense of humour is a must for me. I absolutely <b><i>love</i></b> a guy who makes me laugh and someone who's on my wavelength when it comes to the things I find funny. If we can watch the same comedy sketches and laugh together then I'm sold!</div>
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4. A G O O D T A L K E R</div>
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Talking is a big thing for me. I don't mind sitting in silence sometimes, but I need someone I can talk to. Someone who can hold a conversation and want to speak to me about the things that I find important. I also want to hear about someone else's opinions and to learn new ways of seeing things. For me, a guy needs to be a good <b><i>conversationalist</i></b>. </div>
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5. H E A L T H Y</div>
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I love a takeaway and a boozy night out as much as the next person but I like to keep relatively healthy. I like a guy to be interested in sports (not just watching football on TV!) and ideally to hold a gym membership... That he <b><i>actually</i></b> uses! Badminton, tennis, football, rugby. I'm not fussed about the sport, just something that keeps him occupied and physically fit. If a guy cares about his own health it means he's more likely to take an interest in mine.</div>
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6. F U N</div>
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The guy I'm with has to be confident and fun. I want to be able to get drunk together, dance together, and to generally enjoy each others company. I need to know I can invite him out with my group of friends without having to worry about him sitting in the corner being boring and not socialising. Nights out with my friends are frequent in my life so someone who's willing to stay out until the early hours is a <b><i>must</i></b>. </div>
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7. L O V E S</div>
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The guy I'm looking for will love:</div>
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1) Family - my family mean a lot to me, <b><i>especially</i></b> my sisters. I'd like someone who's family orientated</div>
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2) Friends - my friends are <b><i>hugely</i></b> important to me and I'd like to find a guy who feels the same about his friends too. I've got a lot of group chats that I need to keep up to date with and I can't be dealing with someone who gets annoyed with that!</div>
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3) Films - my favourite thing to do is watch films. I couldn't handle being with someone who doesn't like a movie night on the sofa!</div>
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4) Food - there's nothing I like more than going out for a yummy meal. I can't deal with fussy eaters or someone who's not into their food</div>
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5) Music - If I'm not watching films or chatting to my friends then I'm listening to music. The right guy is going to have to be able to sing Stevie Wonder with me. Loud. </div>
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8. M A R R I A G E & C H I L D R E N</div>
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The perfect guy would want to get married and have children. This is definitely another non negotiable. </div>
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9. A T T R A C T I V E</div>
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I'm by no means a shallow person but looks do mean a lot to me. I need to be <b><i>physically</i></b> attracted to someone. Generally speaking I'd say that looks don't account for everything, and a persons personality definitely goes some way towards how attractive I find them. That being said their looks are also a factor. He needs to be good looking in my eyes. </div>
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10. S E X</div>
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Ooooh she went there. I personally think you find your own balance with a partner so there's no point me going into detail about how frequently you do it or how experimental it is. All I ask for is that a guy is <b><i>open</i></b> and <b><i>willing</i></b> to talk about sex and what both parties like and dislike. There's nothing more attractive than someone who's confident in the bedroom. </div>
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Do any of you have a "list" you'd like to share?</div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-57585587616531816572017-08-20T07:35:00.002-07:002017-09-06T05:02:34.660-07:00Home is Where the Cosiness is<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupTYjhoq5Z6zJRT3vYNJsxGUfyUm9c4fIHz6-huuB3MmG9kqi-YtCP_275yGR2niKtIiJDuJayCQ6sqUrvQde8e1d6BjtZ46L2PDhcYm14DYzm4sJ9l-Lt42cERz43kTrmr9dzHbzkCkU/s1600/Cosy+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupTYjhoq5Z6zJRT3vYNJsxGUfyUm9c4fIHz6-huuB3MmG9kqi-YtCP_275yGR2niKtIiJDuJayCQ6sqUrvQde8e1d6BjtZ46L2PDhcYm14DYzm4sJ9l-Lt42cERz43kTrmr9dzHbzkCkU/s1600/Cosy+4.jpg" /></a></div>
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I don't know many people who don't enjoy feeling cosy. It's probably one of the main reasons I love Autumn so much; there's something really comforting about putting your favourite pyjamas on and getting under the covers when you know it's cold out. Now I'm aware it's still summer and I'm in no rush for the (marginally) warmer weather to leave. I'm going to be sad to say goodbye to the long days and evening strolls down the beach. </div>
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As I've recently moved house and had a new room to dress up exactly how I like, I've been spending a lot more time staying in. My bed is by far my favourite thing in the world, aside from pizza, and there's nothing I enjoy more than getting all snuggled up in it and watching a film. I have a few routine things I do before I get comfortable. These are the kind of things I do before I get into bed or alternatively, if I'm feeling a bit down, I'll go through this routine to cheer me up. </div>
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First up I get my comfy clothes on. I have a jumper that I got from <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/KALE-SWEATER-JUMPER-WOMENS-RETRO-FLAWLES-SURFBOARD-MUSIC-TUMBLR-HIPSTER-CUTE-NEW-/261433043908">Ebay a while ago that says "KALE" on the front</a>; I'm pretty sure Beyonce has one quite similar and as a fellow Kale lover I thought it was a pretty cool play on the "YALE" design. I usually put this on with some joggers or some fleece pyjama bottoms when it's a little cooler. </div>
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During the summer months I tend to wear light pyjama sets. Anything made of silky material will usually do. I've been loving this embroidered set from Primark; It's completely see-through but at the end of the day who's going to see it aside from you and your partner?! If I'm feeling a little self conscious then I wear a bandeau bra underneath until I get under the covers. </div>
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After I've changed into something more comfortable I always take my makeup off. I've been using the <a href="https://www.superdrug.com/Nivea/Nivea-Daily-Essentials-Eye-Make-up-Remover-125ml/p/477150?gclid=CjwKCAjw5uTMBRAYEiwA5HxQNpRefupWnCac7g0GarawQJq-X7w95DAxFqAFjv29gSJZjNlyq9FmKRoCQx4QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CLvBuJiC5tUCFVKeGwodyrYKsA">Nivea Makeup remover</a> for the last few months and I've really been loving it. I bought it on a random food shop at Tesco back in January as I'd run out of my Body Shop Cleansing Oil and I needed something that would suit my sensitive skin. I've re purchased this twice now and I'm super impressed!</div>
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So my makeup is off and I'm in my comfy clothes. It's time to get the ambience in my room all sorted. I've been obsessing over the new P F Candle Co candle and reed diffuser recently. They have a new scent out called <a href="https://pfcandleco.com/collections/pinon">Pinon</a> and it just smells gorgeous! Such a homely warm scent and really strong smelling without being over powering. I have the <a href="https://pfcandleco.com/collections/pinon/products/no-29-pinon-reed-diffuser?variant=28703282386">reed diffuser</a> in my room all the time but when I'm feeling like I want a bit of a fragrance boost I'll put the <a href="https://pfcandleco.com/collections/pinon/products/no-29-pinon-soy-candle?variant=28686262546">soy candle</a> on as well. Lights go off, and I'm in my perfect little cosy place.</div>
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Once I'm settled I'll either read a book or watch something on my laptop. I'm really into Game of Thrones at the moment, so much so I managed to binge watch series 1 - 6 in about a month; just goes to show how many "cosy" evenings I've been having! Now we're on series 7 and I have to wait a week for each episode I tend to watch films or a Netflix series. House of Cards is a firm favourite of mine or Orange is the New Black. </div>
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Do you have a special "cosy" routine?</div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-36365035898306484912017-08-13T13:01:00.001-07:002017-09-06T05:02:38.623-07:00Outfits Fit for a Wedding Guest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Wedding season is upon us people! And if you're anything like me then the minute you get that invitation, you're frantically scrolling through ASOS trying to find that perfect floor length number that doesn't show too much flesh but also means you might grab the attention of one of the single ushers. </div>
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To help take the stress out of finding the perfect frock, I thought I'd share a few of my favourite "wedding guest" appropriate dresses with you. Now in the name of honest blog reviews I have to mention that three of the four above were sent to me by the guys over at Tobi. They contacted me a few weeks ago and asked me to chose some dresses from their collection to review on the blog. I've worn two of them to events already and let's just say I'm pretty obsessed. </div>
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So. Onto the outfits. </div>
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<a href="http://www.tobi.com/product/65015-tobi-be-seen-front-slit-maxi-dress?color_id=93729">Outfit #1 - Been Seen Black Maxi Dress - Tobi</a></div>
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Maaaaaaaan I'm in love with this dress. If god could ask me to design my perfect dress this would be it. It's got frills, a plunging neck line and a split up the front that allows you to glide into a room with the elegance of Grace Kelly. The wrap around feature of this (that you can't really see in these pictures) really adds something different as well. I wore this to my friends wedding this weekend and I loved how it made me feel. One thing I would mention though is the need for tit tape on the front section. I'm hardly blessed in the boob area so I can get away without wearing a bra but If you happen to be a larger boobed girl, this may cause you some issues. I teamed the dress up with a sparkly gold clutch and some cute strappy heels. I bought both quite a while ago now but I've found some similar shoes <a href="http://www.asos.com/asos/asos-priority-high-heels/prd/8213037?clr=black&SearchQuery=black+heels&pgesize=204&pge=0&totalstyles=593&gridsize=3&gridrow=18&gridcolumn=2">HERE</a> from ASOS and a similar clutch <a href="http://www.asos.com/coast/coast-blair-bag/prd/8451236?clr=champagne&SearchQuery=gold+clutch+bag&pgesize=16&pge=0&totalstyles=16&gridsize=3&gridrow=2&gridcolumn=1">HERE</a> from Coast.</div>
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<a href="http://www.tobi.com/gb/product/62382-tobi-uptown-girl-maxi-dress?color_id=89857">Outfit #2 - Uptown Girl Black Maxi Dress - Tobi</a></div>
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When it comes to black dresses I sometimes think that simple is best. This criss cross neck number is so elegant and feels gorgeous on. The fabric is heavy enough for it to fit well in all the right places and the tie back helps you cinch it in around the waist. I'm going to be wearing this to my best friends engagement party in a few weeks and I really can't wait! I wore my cute <a href="https://www.stradivarius.com/gb/woman/sale/shoes/heeled-sandals/pompom-sandals-c1399014p300361508.html?keyWordCatentry=Pompom+sandals">pom pom block heels</a> with this from Stradivarius.</div>
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<a href="https://www.riverisland.com/p/orange-pleated-skirt-lace-trim-dress-702908?sem=1&cmpid=PLA&istCompanyId=28d3cba5-6749-43eb-904c-61b8cc01cf80&istItemId=xlmrtitrpw&istBid=tztx&_cclid=v3_edcb4718-e231-5173-a89b-c35a923cd9ea&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8b_MBRDcARIsAKJE7lmgy0xIjQjYACqX-NJTvjwY3rcljrIbtwxRDiMeFcqDlSxX0UL8SOMaAtCyEALw_wcB">Outfit #3 - Orange Pleated Skirt Lace Trim Dress - River Island</a></div>
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I think this is the perfect garden wedding dress. It's so comfy to wear and the colour is so summer appropriate. I've never worn orange before but I just couldn't resist the pleat and lace combo. My only slight complaint with this is the fact that the neck line could do with being slightly lower. Perhaps I'm just being a bit picky though. This dress looks great teamed up with some wedges. I went with my Kurt Geiger ones which unfortunately aren't available in stores anymore. They do have a <a href="http://www.selfridges.com/GB/en/cat/carvela-katey-leather-wedge-sandals_854-10004-4672333109/?previewAttribute=Tan&previewSize=EUR+41+%2F+8+UK+WOMEN&cm_mmc=PLA-_-Google-_-WOMENS-_-CARVELA&$$&_$ja=tsid:35948%7Ccid:198861094%7Cagid:10883761414%7Ctid:aud-51965299119:pla-74847958894%7Ccrid:40389446734%7Cnw:g%7Crnd:1179037318637216674%7Cdvc:c%7Cadp:1o2&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8b_MBRDcARIsAKJE7lnrCBc7wwUEixKctsy-gwWTiD7Yhc_kgw-9eTj1-DXJ11SsW0LHUfsaAhc1EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">brown version</a> though; not quite rose gold but gorgeous all the same! </div>
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<a href="http://www.tobi.com/product/62925-tobi-wonder-why-scallop-shift-dress?color_id=90651">Outfit #4 - Wonder Why Blush Shift Dress - Tobi</a></div>
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I'm a sucker for a scalloped hem. This dress is so simple but makes such a statement. I recently wore this out for the Gay Pride celebrations in my home town, Brighton (head over to my Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sophy_victoria/">HERE</a> to check out how I styled it for that) but here I ditched the glitter and space buns. The neck line on this is pretty low so I tend to wear it with this little bralette from Primark.<br />
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You can view the full Tobi range over on their website <a href="http://www.tobi.com/gb" id="LPlnk530087" previewinformation="1" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="font-family: wf_segoe-ui_normal, 'Segoe UI', 'Segoe WP', Tahoma, Arial, sans-serif, serif, EmojiFont; font-size: 15px; text-align: start;" target="_blank">http://www.tobi.com/gb</a></div>
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Happy wedding guest dress shopping!</div>
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<br />Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-34019281749159486742017-08-06T06:43:00.002-07:002017-09-06T05:02:45.094-07:00Settling In and Feeling Grateful<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Moving into a new home is always a bit daunting. I was pretty worried when I moved out of my Grandmothers because I wasn't sure I'd ever feel comfortable in a place again after leaving the flat I shared with my ex. I was so relieved that after a few weeks I started to feel normal and like this was definitely my safe place. </div>
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Looking back I think I was quite unhappy for the first half of 2017. I definitely felt like my life was on hold and I couldn't fully move on from everything that had happened towards the end of the year. Now I'm settled though I feel so much better. I feel like I'm completely happy on my own doing my own thing and I'm not relying on anything or anyone to make me happy. I'm actually capable of doing that on my own now which I'm so pleased about. </div>
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I've been spending the last month or so trying really hard to think positively. Most nights before I go to sleep I think about three things from the day that I'm thankful for. These three things can be anything from nice weather, a yummy dinner or time spent chatting to someone who made me laugh. After I've thought about the things I'm grateful for I think about all the things that I want out of my life. To have a successful blog, pay off my debt, meet the right guy. Sometimes I even think of specific people who I want to be happy and healthy. I genuinely believe that if you think positive thoughts and believe you'll get where you want to be then you will. Everyone loves good vibes and if you put them out into the world I'm pretty sure good things will come back around. </div>
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Shirt - Zara (similar <a href="http://www.asos.com/honey-punch/honey-punch-off-shoulder-long-sleeve-top-with-embroidery-and-tassel-trim/prd/7728614?affid=14173&channelref=product+search&mk=abc&currencyid=1&ppcadref=761030380%7C39786672883%7Caud-234508750992%3Apla-274302018139&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_JrMBRDPARIsACis1HyZHdhmLzSY23GpN1IaFU-AVoNHXyWftgDFmSvbzbgNikM3Jhg3bssaAgxpEALw_wcB">HERE</a> and <a href="http://www.azbro.com/blouses/230216-women-s-v-neck-embroidery-striped-long-sleeve-blouse.html?googlecurrencyaud=3&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_JrMBRDPARIsACis1HzfwPRY5gEXNKrYigsK3bP7GaYN3v5upIliJPFLhc8QQhCgxDAgqAkaApxOEALw_wcB">HERE</a>)</div>
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Ring - Silverado (similar <a href="https://www.monicavinader.com/siren-stacking-ring/gold-vermeil-siren-stacking-ring-aquamarine?search=%2Fshop%2Frings">HERE</a>)</div>
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Jeans - Topshop (<a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/moto-black-jamie-jeans-4575923?bi=20&ps=20">HERE</a>)</div>
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Belt - H&M (similar <a href="http://www2.hm.com/en_gb/productpage.0179950017.html#Black/Gold">HERE</a>)</div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-67903542185020242872017-07-23T12:01:00.001-07:002017-09-06T05:03:58.790-07:00My Top 5 Favourite Scents <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've always loved perfume, ever since I was a little girl. I remember the first perfume I was ever given; Versace Red Jeans. I used to wear it every day and it made me feel so grown up as hardly any of my friends had proper perfume. When I was about 14/15 I was really into Tommy Girl and pretty much any body mist scent I could get my hands on at Superdrug. Anyone remember "So?" god I could barely breathe in he girls changing rooms after P.E for that stuff!</div>
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Since my teenage years my taste in scents has changed quite dramatically, thankfully! I'm usually drawn towards more musky, heavy scents. I'm not as into citrus scents on myself or even on a guy to be honest. I've always been more of a floral person. Vanilla undertones are a trend in most of the perfumes I own. Ginger, jasmine and orange tend to feature a lot too as well as cedar. The scents featured in this post are some of my all time favourites and all of them are relatively similar in terms of their base notes. </div>
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<i><a href="http://www.allbeauty.com/perfume/1163794-paco-rabanne-olympea-eau-de-parfum-80ml?gclid=Cj0KCQjwnazLBRDxARIsAECdautbjqqZo4tsD6yEhr2k2Kv-tfBzjbA6oLKjpdnqCy2WgBA-NeuvMTAaAn6tEALw_wcB">- Paco Rabanne - Olympea -</a></i></div>
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This is one of the newer additions to my collection. The bottle is right up my street with the rose gold detailing. I smelt the scent on my friend Olivia and I decided I had to have it. She actually has the intense version which I'm not as keen on as I think it's a little too overpowering (sorry Olive!) But this is perfect and still pretty potent if you put enough on. I'd say this is probably my go to every day perfume for work days and weekends. </div>
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<a href="http://www.jomalone.co.uk/product/11563/27028/fragrances/the-collections/floral/peony-blush-suede/peony-blush-suede-cologne?gclid=Cj0KEQjwnazLBRDxrdGMx-Km4oQBEiQAQJ1q62PCd_dfdjQ5_Il7RF_4c0mpxEVqDjX5JV0-CWESwx4aAkBv8P8HAQ&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CKvP94CsjtUCFWYC0wodXiIKQg"><i>- Jo Malone - Peony and Blush Suede -</i></a></div>
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I bought this a while back in duty free. I'd wanted a Jo Malone perfume for ages and my boyfriend at the time kindly offered to get it for me. I'd smelt this scent before as it's one of the more popular cologne's that they do. All of their scents are unisex but I would say that this is more on the feminine side. It's so hard to explain the way this smells; it's really unusual but still very wearable. I'd say it's definitely something to use on special occasions. I tend to wear it to things like weddings or parties where I'll be outside a lot. Sounds random I know but once you've smelt it you'll know what I mean!</div>
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<a href="http://www.allbeauty.com/search/?q=marc+jacobs+decadence&gclid=Cj0KCQjwnazLBRDxARIsAECdauuvQC7npHmsiLg3DKewSm5UAzuQWtWoD3YOIdFCY9109ZiNJnp9ydMaAoiGEALw_wcB"><i>- Marc Jacobs - Decadence -</i></a></div>
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My all time favourite perfume! I'm in love with this stuff. I remember when I first bought it I said to my boyfriend that it was literally me in a perfume. He agreed but I'm pretty sure he had no idea what I was talking about! This is another very heavy perfume like the name would suggest so I tend to wear this to parties and nights out. It gets a lot of wear during the winter as it's just so warming. I think I bought it around Christmas time so it definitely reminds me of winter although I do obviously wear it all year round. </div>
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<i><a href="http://www.libertylondon.com/uk/valentina-eau-de-parfum-50ml-1001264366.html?dwvar_335022_color=98-NO%20COLOUR&referrer=departments&gclid=Cj0KCQjwnazLBRDxARIsAECdauvpk3Y3w4bF972rCCsDFcYimi0tDgO0oPJiSUDZ30--dVe6_B4AR0EaAib9EALw_wcB">- Valentino - Valentina - </a></i></div>
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I bought this from a perfume shop in Tenerife a few weeks back. It's my most recent addition to my perfume collection. I had it a while ago but ran out and just never got round to re purchasing it. I would say this is probably one of the more lighter perfumes I own in terms of it being a little more suitable for every day. It has a really refined scent. I'd say it's more on the mature side but definitely not old or dated. Think sophisticated like Chanel. I've been wearing this every day at the moment because it's just such a versatile scent. </div>
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<i><a href="http://www.allbeauty.com/1097372-yves-saint-laurent-black-opium-eau-de-parfum-50ml?gclid=Cj0KCQjwnazLBRDxARIsAECdaus5SIMny0zCTYnefho9pzPFuLA6tByJ-dpX7dnaMiorUW9j1Ewu-ccaAvsAEALw_wcB">- YSL - Black Opium -</a></i></div>
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This is such a popular scent amongst my friends. It's a bit annoying actually as so many of us have it! It's definitely very distinctive and sweet whilst still being very opulent and rich. I usually swap between this and Decadence for a party evening out. I recently re purchased it actually because although I don't wear it as much as I used to, it's such a cult classic nowadays that I felt I needed it in my perfume collection. </div>
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So there you have it. My top 5 perfumes. I do occasionally swap and change to mix things up a bit but these are certainly my most worn and repurchased. I'd love to hear your thoughts on my selections as well as any others that you're also loving at the moment! </div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-48134093618516323352017-07-16T13:31:00.000-07:002017-09-06T05:04:05.784-07:00Tenerife Dreaming <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last weekend I headed over to Tenerife with two of my friends, Abbie and Olivia. It was such a welcome break after what I can only describe as a pretty manic few weeks of moving house, festivals and some weird emotional shit that quite frankly made me never want to come back from Spain at all. </div>
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I didn't take too many pictures whilst I was away; firstly because I wanted a proper break but also because we were only away for 3 nights in total. If I'd been there longer I'd have dedicated a day or so to outfit shots but this time around it just wasn't feasible. The above two are the best of the few I did take; the bikini shot is outside a gorgeous beach club called <a href="http://www.papagayobeachclub.com/en/">Papagayo</a>. We went there a few times whilst we were away and I'd say it was my favourite bar we visited. The second was taken on the roof top of our hotel at their bar called Cafe Del Mar. I was so in love with our hotel! It's called <a href="https://www.dreamplacehotels.com/es/hotel-tigotan/rooftop">Tigotan Lovers and Friends</a>. It's a weird name for a hotel I know but it really was amazing. The roof top there was gorgeous with an infinity pool and white sun loungers everywhere. It had great views over the sea too. </div>
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We had Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights to spend in town. We headed out to the strip on Thursday and Friday and went to a few bars. The main strip definitely isn't what I would call up market but it's so much fun. The bar staff are all super friendly and the music is always good. You get your drunken idiots wherever you go but what I personally loved was the fact there were all different ages there. Being 28 I was a bit worried I'd be surrounded by 18 year olds but that wasn't the case. </div>
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Saturday night we were all ridiculously hungover from the night before so we went to the centre of town where all the restaurants are. There's loads of places to choose from food wise including a Hard Rock Hotel if that kind of thing takes your fancy. Everything was reasonably priced and the food we ate out was lovely.</div>
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I'm still gutted about coming home. As you guys all know things have been pretty up and down for me over the last 6 months or so and this holiday really could of done with being a few days longer if I'm honest! We had such a good time just relaxing during the day and drinking our body weight in cocktails every evening. We met some lovely people too which definitely made the time away all that more special. I can't wait to go back from another girls holiday soon. </div>
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Bikini - Pour Moi? (Similar <a href="http://www.very.co.uk/pour-moi-azure-padded-underwired-bikini-top-red/1600075252.prd?sku=sku18972815&cm_mmc=google-_-PLA+-+Womens-_-Women+-+Swimwear+%26+Beachwear+-+Bikinis-_-na_85148416618&utm_medium=cpc&k_clickid=d013111b-d731-490f-966a-e2412f1fe151&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Shopping_Womens&utm_term=na&utm_content=85148416618&profileid=402&keywordid=na&productgroupid=pg288439&device=c&gclid=Cj0KCQjwnazLBRDxARIsAECdausRIAGs8dCsa1AXAzRfhrE5yTZdn0ILEviPQdhko7CZ6qkGU1WeCjcaAlQTEALw_wcB">HERE</a>)</div>
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Sunglasses - Rayban (<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ray-ban-Women-Sunglasses-matte-black/dp/B019SSDCQ8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492368412&sr=8-1&keywords=Ray-Ban%2B4250&th=1">HERE</a>)</div>
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Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5321807155714384822.post-81410412309762460562017-06-13T12:42:00.001-07:002017-09-06T05:03:02.858-07:00My (Honest) Guide to Festivals <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am forever wanting to live in festival fashion. There's something so fun about covering yourself in glitter and wearing things you wouldn't normally wear and generally just going a bit mental with your wardrobe for a long weekend. And that's pretty much exactly what I did last weekend for Wildlife Festival; a 2 day event hosted at Brighton City Airport just outside of my home town. </div>
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Now when it comes to festivals I am not the kind of girl who camps so for me Wildlife was perfect. There's no option to camp at all so we got lifts there and back and stayed with my mum for a weekend. She lives in the middle of nowhere in the gorgeous Sussex countryside so each night we'd go back to hers and wake up in such lovely surroundings. It was perfect for us. </div>
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Wildlife Festival is probably my 3rd or 4th festival now and when I came back, I thought about all the things I'd learnt over the years about what to bring, what to not bring and what to wear. With this in mind I wanted to create a little guide for you all, especially if you're popping your festival cherry this summer!</div>
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<b>- The Bag - </b></div>
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Trust me, don't take a back pack. I know it might seem like a great idea at the time but it gets in the way when you're in a tightly packed crowd and for everyone else, it's bloody annoying. I'd recommend a small cross body bag or a bum bag. You don't need to take much with you (I'll move into the contents of the bag in a second) so just go with something small and compact. </div>
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<b>- The Jacket -</b></div>
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If you're going to a festival in England then the likelihood of it raining is pretty high. I'd recommend taking a "mac in a sac" or a waterproof that can be easily folded into a small bag. Coats are a pain and believe you me when you're squished up in a crowd of a thousand or more people you'll be grateful you're not wearing that North Face jacket your mum suggested you bring with you. Large crowds can get sweaty. Gross but true. </div>
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<b>- The Anti Bac -</b></div>
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This will be your saviour. Festival toilets are notoriously gross so the least you can do is lather yourself in the stuff after you've spent the last 5 minutes precariously opening the bacteria ridden toilet door with your paws. </div>
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<b>- The Makeup - </b></div>
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Don't be that person spending hours looking in the mirror applying your makeup before heading into the dance tent and sweating it all off. No one like a princess at a festival so keep it minimal; lipstick and some transparent powder should be all you need. Leave the rest at home/ in your tent. If nothing else it'll probably just get squashed in the mosh pit/ trampled on after you drop your bag trying to carry the round of ciders that just cost you your life savings. </div>
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<b>- The Outfit -</b> </div>
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I personally like to feel comfortable especially if I'm going to be on my feet all day and most of the night. My outfit of choice for both days involved Converse; they kept my feet safe from the trampling and mud and were pretty comfy considering I was wearing them for a solid 12 hours each day. I opted for a skirt, crop top and a denim jacket on day one and a floral playsuit and my Barbour coat on day 2. I appreciate I said no jacket above but it got pretty chilly in the evenings and both jackets were thin enough to tie around my waist when I wasn't wearing them. Accessories wise less is definitely not more at a festival. Don't be afraid to go crazy; add glitter in places you've never even considered wearing glitter. Festivals are a chance to go bold so if you're someone who's usually weary of going over the top, now's your opportunity!</div>
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<b>- The Hair - </b></div>
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I'm lucky enough to have a sister who can braid like a boss. Bibi braided both mine and my other sister Alice's hair and the two of them helped me add a glitter parting. All you need for this is some Vaseline and some multi coloured glitter pots. I'd recommend staying well clear of the finer stuff and going for the chunkier glitter as this seemed to work best for us. Add the Vaseline to your parting first, smooth it in a bit then tip the glitter on top. Pat it down then voila; you have angel hair. You're so welcome. </div>
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<b>- The After Thoughts - </b></div>
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Don't take your whole wallet. Some cash, your ID and your bank card should be fine. If you can, bring an old crappy pay as you go phone. Give the number to your nearest and dearest and leave that £800 iPhone at home. Arrange a meeting place for you and your friends as soon as you get there in case anyone gets lost. Keep your wits about you at all times and don't let your drink out of your sight. Locate the "welfare" areas; you never know how you might feel after one too many Kopparbergs. Suss the toilet situation out early and whilst they are fully stocked with loo roll. Take as much as you can and run for the hills. Oh and if you can find someone who has toilet seat covers BECOME THEIR BEST FRIEND. </div>
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Have fun guys! </div>
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<br />Sophyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06285326588135178032noreply@blogger.com