Showing posts with label Nails. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Nails. Show all posts

Wednesday, 7 January 2015

About Me

Hi Guys, Today I wanted to properly introduce myself as I realised you don't really know much about me. Xx


Hi my name is Nadine I am 21 year aspiring Manchester blogger. I love anything beauty, fashion, baking or DIY. From a very young age my dad owned his own building company and worked for himself I would join him on jobs or help him out at home and was always so inspired by his dedication as even though he was working all day he would still come home with a smile on his face and start the same work for us at home. He taught me my basic and advance DIY skills and always encouraged my creative manor that's where my love for DIY and interior design comes from. My mom on the other hand always encouraged me in my fashion and baking. We would always be out shopping and looking for new outfits to put together and she's the best at picking out a great handbag. When me and my sister were young my mom would help us to bake are favourite treats brownies and cupcakes I think that's where I first developed my love from baking. 

As a teenager I studied many different subjects including fine art and textile and hair and makeup I later followed by studding at a high level in all three sciences and maths. I know it's a bit of a mixture right? But at the time I was toying with the idea of becoming a dentist and it's still a backup plan for me. Studying hair and make up was awesome it was so fun and creative I couldn't wait to try out my techniques throughout my studies although I'm not great at doing my own hair I think I'm pretty good with somebody else. I do find that even in my current hobbies my more academic skills can be out into place whether that's measuring and calculating for an interior project or creating a chemical reaction with baking or DIY homemade goods. 

Some of my favourite things do are anything winter sports related as I just love being out in the cold weather.  I do everything for ice-skating to snowboarding and would try most winter sports once except luging that looks too intense for me. I keep myself fit with regular one to one yoga classes and gym sessions, yoga is my favourite way to stay healthy and fit as it's relaxing and lengthening and doesn't cause strain on the body. As I suffer from back pain and insomnia the type of yoga I practise really helps with both of these issues that's why it's such a perfect practise. 

I hope this post helps you get to know me a little better and I will be including much more of my hobbies in post to come. 

Friday, 2 January 2015

New Year Life Style Changes


Hi Guys, I hope you all had a great New Years day. I had a lovely relaxed day visiting my partners family, we had a delicious roast dinner, a game of bingo and enjoyed some homemade baked goodies. As per every year I wanted to put together a few New Year lifestyle changes to meet. I prefer to think of them as lifestyle changes rather than Resolutions as I always pick things that are achievable and that I would like to carry on with after the year is up. If you would like to know more details of my choices please continue reading or If any you have any lifestyle changes in mind I would to know what you'll be looking achieve maybe I can find some inspiration in what you will be doing. Good Luck. xx


  1. Get Driving - I started driving lessons multiple years ago when I was 17 as I was about to take my test before I took on a full time opportunity at work. At the time I worked so close to my house there was no need for a car. Now that my circumstances have changed my sister has moved away and my new property may mean a further journey to work I feel like now is the best time to get my driving licence. 
  2. Get A House - Early 2014 I moved in with my wonderful boyfriend we moved into a nice city centre apartment we are now finding that we have outgrown the size of our apartment and are looking for something bigger that we can change and decorate together.  
  3. Do More Yoga - Last summer I started one to one yoga training to help with some medical issues I quickly fell in love with doing it I replaced my gym sessions with yoga. It makes me feel so much leaner and relaxed I want to make sure it stays a regular part of my life.
  4. Start Iceskating - As a child I always was fascinated by snow and cold weather sports I started ice skating every week, skiing and later snowboarding. Ice skating is the only I never had professional training in. I feel I could really enhance my skills further by taking up even 2 classes a month.  
  5. See My Family More - For me my family is everything I don't know what I would do without them. This year I want to make sure I keep seeing all of my loved ones as much as I do and make sure I keep my great relationship I have with my sister now she has moved to university.
  6. Get Fitter - This is typical one for most peoples resolutions. For me this isn't something I will be starting but something I am continuing and improving. My eating habits are something that I need to work on so that all my hard work exercising is matched with a nutrient rich diet.
  7. Snow Holiday - I have been wanting to go on another winter adventure for a few years now, this year myself and my other half have decided we have saved enough money for a trip away. I can't wait to get back into the snow and get active I always feel really refreshed after I have had an athletic vacation.
  8. Build a Business - This year is the year I really need to dedicate myself to creating a career for myself whether that's beauty, baking, interiors or blogging I just know that my career needs to start heading in an upward direction. If I could choose anything I would absolutely love to start making YouTube videos and continue blogging as that is what makes me happy because it involves all of my hobbies.
  9. Keep Baking - As long as I can remember my Nanna and parents would teach me and my sister to bake cakes and pies that it is something that It s now something that is a big part of my life. Most of my Christmas gift this year were baking related which means I have the proper tools for my creations. I will continue to practise baking and sharing recipes.
  10. Stop Being Stressed - This is my big one, If I can implement all the choices above I know this will help my stress  levels. At the moment I stress and worry a lot and with me already suffering from insomnia (for many years) its just amplifying everything. I want to change this around be more relaxed, fun and happy, I know I can do it.
*Disclaimer* These are all my own personal choices that I think will improve my day to day life.

Thursday, 1 January 2015

Happy New Year!


Happy New Year everyone I hope that this year is lucky and full adventure. I hope that you all had a wonderful New Years Eve. As I was in work all day yesterday I spent my evening baking goodies to take to a family get together today. I made sorm Viennese whirls, biscuits and some bread a recipe/baking tips will be up in a post soon. Today I will be spending my day at my partners grandmas with the rest of there family were having a nice meal and having a good chin wag. We will then be heading home as my parents are coming round to help celebrate the first day of the year.

Wednesday, 31 December 2014

Get Ready Tips For A Party


Hi guys,  Today is New Years Eve. Lets get the party started. I wanted to come up with some tips for relaxing and getting ready for a big night out, I put together a list of my favourite things to do to get in the party mood. Sometimes there is nothing better than pampering yourself and taking your time with your hair an makeup. I hope this post help you take some time to yourself and really get your night started well.


  1. Start With A Treatment - The best way to start they day is have a professional treatment not only will the be some nice time to relax it is also it one less thing you have to do yourself. I would usually get my nails done or if I don't have much time an eyebrow tidy.
  2. Wash Your Hair First - I always start my my process by getting in the shower and washing my hair I use any simple natural shampoo with UV protection and I mix the matching conditioner with my Aussie 3 Minute Miracle, my personal preference is the luscious long one and leave this in my hair throughout the next few steps and in the bath. I start running my bath at this point
  3. Apply A Face Mask - My best tip for using a face mask before a night out is only use ones you've tried before there is nothing worse than an allergic reaction or a breakout. Why not treat yourself to one of the Glam Glow selections as they are natural and can be used for longer periods of time. I like the blue one for extra hydration. As previous keep this on in the bath *.
  4. Gel Eye Patches - I love to use these for a special occasion they help to reduce puffiness, fine lines and refreshes your eye area with a cooling feeling. Again keep this on in the bath.
  5. Make A Drink - As your bath is just about ready make something refreshing to drink in the tub whatever you choose I recommend making it look special.
  6. Have A Bath - By now your bath should be full so its time to add your favourite bath bomb. I love the Golden Wonder by Lush as it leaves your skin lovely and soft with hints of shimmer for that Victoria's secret healthy glow. 
  7. Play Some Music - Once your out of the bath and you have rinsed the conditioner out of your hair put on some music that you can sing along to.
  8. Hair - I always start by blow drying my hair as it takes such a long time with it being long. My favourite way to wear my hair at the moment is using my new BaByliss Hot Rollers. I would put these in now and do my makeup whilst there cooling. 
  9. Makeup - When doing your makeup for a big night take your time. I recommend starting with your foundation moving onto eyes then tiding any fallout with concealer. This best way to keep your makeup looking flawless is too blend and sandwich layers of product this will also help to keep your look lasting all night.
  10. Hair - Now your makeup is all finished style your hair and add any additional products you use to keep your hair in place.
  11. Finally - Finish with a spritz of your best perfume mine is the Jo Malone Earl Grey and Cucumber.
* Please follow manufactures instructions.

Monday, 29 December 2014

New Years Eve Outfits

Hi Guys, First of all Im so sorry for this post being late I thought I had scheduled this for 10am but it turns out I never hit save(silly me ). The New Years countdown is near which means we have the perfect chance to get the most sparkly and glamours outfits out. For me New years eve symbolises last the day of who you were that year so let loose and enjoy being you as tomorrow you have the chance to start fresh and be anyone you want to be. Its time to let your hair down and go wild. xx


Look 1 - Seasonal and Stylish.
This first look is fashion forward by mixing the houndstooth print with a classic combination of red and black accessories. The colours keep the look festive with a winter touch perfect for night out with friends. The cut on the neckline of the dress allows the midi length bodycon fit to very sexy but comfortable. I choose this leather clutch because it a timeless piece plus it adds that touch of luxury to the outfit. To tie the look together I went with items that follow a trend of simple dainty elements e.g. the straps on the dress and minimal heel and the delicate bracelet.


Look 2 - Classy Chic.
My next outfit I wanted something sophisticated and chic that could be worn somewhere like an up market bar. I went with these tailored trousers with a shimmery embroidered pattern that finish just above the ankle to show of the beautiful colour of the Zara shoes I chose. I added a simple navy shirt that has a jewelled neckline and some matching earring to pull everything together and keep with the colour theme. I love this look as all of the pieces can worn separately for a complete change of style.


Look 3 - Sexy with Sparkle.
For this look I really wanted the stunning beaded dress to do all the talking with its sheer panelling and intricate detail it's a piece that is perfect for any kind of party. I matched the dress with simple rose toned accessories to bring out the colour of the dress even more. My tip for styling a statement dress is to keep your accessories should be kept delicate and minimal, not only will this look good it will also keep the costs down as a beaded dress like this one can be pricey.

Look 4 - Glamorous and Golden.
My final look would be great for bringing in the new year at a bar/club night. I went for this cute sweetheart jumpsuit with faltering pleat details for a light easy to dance in piece, I paired with a beautiful jewelled statement necklace and complimenting earrings and a chunky golden belt. I finished the look of with a pair of scrappy gold heel for a festive feel although I think it would look great with a pair of mint green or navy ones as well.

Look 1.

Look 2.

Look 3.

Look 4.


Saturday, 27 December 2014

Top Tips For Shopping The Sales.


Hi guys, How was your boxing day? Did you brave any sales yet? 
My day was quite relaxed I usually spend my boxing day visiting family or having lunch out but this year was a little different, we were so tired from all the christmas festivities yesterday that we couldn't help but have a well needed lie in.

Once we were up my other half put the boxing day match whilst I looked through the gifts I received and planned if I wanted to make any treats with the presents I got. I decided to make were homemade diary gluten free chocolates,  a lovely pumpkin spiced latte and finally I attempted to make a chocolate mint ice cream(still waiting to see the results). We spent the rest of the evening catching up on TV programmes, playing with our adorable kittens whilst typing this blog post. 

So without further adieu. xx
  1. Look beforehand - Go on line and check what the stores you like have on offer, make a list of any items you know you want and anything you would like to look at. This way you know where you'll be going and if its worth the risking the busy stores.
  2. Plan your shop - Now you've got your list together ask yourself will a department store have all your items? are all the stores in the same mall? which items do I want the most? Once know all these things plan your day make sure you go the stores you go and get all the items you want first, you can always go back to browse afterwards.
  3. Pick your time - Think about how long you want to be out A few hours?,  30 Minutes? or the full day? This will help with the time of day you go if you want to be quick try to leave your shopping until the last few hours of the day as it will be much quieter.
  4. Bring minimal items - This will make all the difference to how you feel at the end of your shop try to bring a small bag as you will be less likely to fill it with stuff that you don't need. I would suggest if you need to wear a coat make it a light easy to fold one so that you can pop it in a carrier bag if you get to warm. Wear some quick to put on like a dress for if you need to try on anything it will help cut down the time your spending in the changing rooms.
  5. Ask - Don't be afraid to ask the sales assistants questions. the first thing I ask when entering a store is can I return sales items if so I skip trying on clothes and I won't think about the purchase as much, I can always return it later. If there is something you really want can they order it in for you? Is it available in any where else? or simply Do you have any more in the back? you never know they might just be able to find you one.
  6. Wear comfortable footwear - This is such a easy one to forget but it makes all the difference. I always go for something flat, waterproof with no laces it makes it easier for you to stay on your feet for long periods of time and to race for that perfect product.
  7. Finally Don't get flustered, Have fun. Relax shopping is supposed to be enjoyable, take your time and think about all the lovely new things your getting plus the money you'll be saving.
I hope this post helps with making your sales trip a little bit easier and pleasant. Tomorrows post will be a New years eve styling post to help you getting into the party an I will shortly being do a post on the recipes above in a blog post in a few days too.

Thursday, 25 December 2014

It's Christmas

Merry Christmas everyone I hope you all have a fantastic Christmas day with lots of fun, laughter and love. Today I will be spending the morning with my wonderful other half Josh then continuing on to follow tradition and spending the rest my day at my parents house with Mom, Dad, Sister Holly and Grandma and a few visiting relatives. I truly can't wait to give out all the gift I have collected I love seeing the responses when they open their gifts.


As my day will be dedicated to my family I have scheduled this post in advance to share some photos from my Christmas Eve including my outfits, hair and makeup. Again I hope you all enjoy your days Seasons Greetings xx

Unusual Christmas Tree, I like it.

Mom and Dad at breakfast.

Nice Sparkly Champagne Nails.

Outfit of the day.

Soft Glittery smokey eye.
 My Christmas eve started off with trip to our local snow slope to check out there giant Christmas Tree and snowy grotto for me there is nothing better to get me in the holiday more than being surrounded by snow. As it is a family tradition to have breakfast as family every Christmas Eve we sat down and enjoyed some American style pancakes with bacon and a latte, we also had a quick browse in the snow shops to scope out a some items my next snow boarding trip that will hopefully be dropping in price once the sales start. We then parted ways to finish our last minute preparations for today before we met back up for an evening meal at Chiquitos.

The outfit I choose was from my Festive Fashion post yesterday I just switched the shoes out for a more comfortable option due to my feet being sore from all the shopping I've done lately. I added a black fur shawl and my favourite rings to complete the look.

The makeup look had to be simple and quick as I was running a little late for meeting back up with my parents so I opted for a soft golden smokey eye, peachy cheeks and natural lips not to forget lots of glitter. I blended a shimmery light gold pigment into a dark glittery grey cream shadow mixing in little warm brown for smooth lines and blend. I added a flick of liner a peachy blush from sleek and finally a soft pink shade from Ted Baker and I was good to go.

I had  lovely time spending Christmas with my loved ones the only thing that would have made it perfect would have been to have my younger sister to have been well enough to join us.




Wednesday, 24 December 2014

Festive Fashion

Hi guys, Today I though I would share with you some of my favourite outfits for the Christmas festivities over the next few days I will be wearing these outfits out to a nice evening meal, Christmas with my family plus meeting a few friends and family for a catch up. I wanted to include a mixture of casual and dressy looks with a range of different budget friendly options, as always I sneakily added in few luxury details ;). I hope you get some inspiration from my styling and I would love to see your outfit choices too. Merry Christmas xx
Look 1 - This first look is my favourite of the post as it is fashion forward yet very comfortable at the same time. The dress is the perfect floral print for the winter and the fabric is light weight and floaty matching this simple dress with the wine hat gives the look a boho feel. A pair of high boots are a must for me for winter as there waterproof and warm match with a snugly scarf your simplest coat and to complete the look a simple black bag I went for this one from Mulberry as I love the gold detail and the size lets me fit all my essentials in day or night. I think this will be my choice for Christmas day. 

Hat - http://www.selectfashion.co.uk/accessories/s040-3004-59_wine.html
Baghttp://www.mulberry.com/shop/lily/lily-black-glossy-goat-with-soft-gold
Look 2 - This second look I'll be wearing for a Christmas eve meal later tonight I wanted to feel fancy and festive as well as comfortable as I plan to eating quite a bit. The velvet top is slightly sheer so I matched it with my go to leather look leggings and my favourite studded heels for an edgy look. I finally finished the outfit by pairing it with a classic gold watch and a statement necklace I also choose a white coat for the walk there. This look would go perfect with the festive party makeup I posted on the 22nd. 

Clutch - http://www.shucrazy.co.uk/w55-womens-ladies-oversized-envelope-clasp-gold-studded-party-evening-clutch-bag-40512-p.asp
Necklacehttp://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_37484+MDNW036997_-1

Look 3  - This outfit I recently wore to a birthday meal it was the perfect choice as I knew we wouldn't be walking far to the restaurant and it was nice and warm inside the knitted co-ord looked sophisticated and figure hugging plus had the bonus of being made of super soft fabric. I teamed my co-ord with easy to wear boots in black to help me look taller a Chanel watch for a touch of glam and finally a statement necklace ( I would have preferred something red toned) and a contrasting red lip.

Necklace -http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_37484+MDNW036997_-1
Boots - http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_052010306060?CMP=SSH&tmcampid=28&tmad=c&sku=7677335&ci_src=18615224&ci_sku=7677335&ds_e_ad_type=pla&gclid=Cj0KEQiAwuSkBRC7qKq8rr7796sBEiQA5VnSuNqNT6kXV0IVBvY78ms73DAONR28yULPUeql6U_90cMaArk48P8HAQ
Co-ord -http://www.missselfridge.com/en/msuk/product/clothing-299047/co-ordinates-2833113/mini-check-co-ord-top-3212778?bi=1&ps=40http://www.missselfridge.com/en/msuk/product/clothing-299047/co-ordinates-2833113/mini-check-pencil-skirt-3210793?bi=1&ps=40
Look 4 - My last look is super casual and season appropriate I recently wore this to work on Christmas Jumper Monday. This day I wanted to look extra Christmassy so I pulled out my best holiday jumper, a relaxed skirt and my new bag (I wore a DKNY one with my outfit) which happened to be the same wine colour as the skirt I chose, I then topped the outfit off with my black leather boots, thick tights a fluffy coat and a  bobble hat. This look is great for the winter as you can mix and match all the pieces with different items or colours already in you wardrobe and still feel put together.

Monday, 22 December 2014

Festive Party Look

My go to look for Christmas.
Hi guys, today I wanted to share my go to hair and makeup look for the holiday season. I recently wore this look to a winter wedding party it lasted all through the night without any touch ups needed and with the little extra glitter gave my simple black dress a glamorous feel. I've included a step by step guide to how I achieved my look including the products I used and some pictures from night. I hope you enjoy the look and if you want to recreate it please tag my Instagram with your photos. xx 


  • Foundation - I started with my foundation I used Mac Face + Body with a mac 187 Duo Fibre Brush all over my face.
  • Eyebrows - I then moved onto my eye area I always like to create the basic shape of my eyebrows at the start using my L'Oreal brow artist in blond and quickly setting them in place with Benefit gimme brow in medium/deep. 
  • Eyes - I started with primer I chose Urban Decay primer potion in Champagne for shimmery base, I started then by using Mac cork as a transition colour in the crease.I then went over the top with a Mac loose pigment in Naked over the eyelid area and the colour ME 280 by Shu Uemura in the outer half of the eyelid and finally through the outer v and the crease and a little under the eye I mixed Mac Embark with Shu Uemura ME 885.
  • Eyeliner - I decided on a feline flick to help elongate my eyes I used Seventeen Liquid eyeliner in black.
  • Mascara - As I can never find a mascara I like I'm constantly trying new ones I went with The Body Shop one (I wouldn't recommend it's very clumpy).
  • Concealer - Today I wanted a subtle Highlight I used Mac studio cover in a v shape under my eyes. I then set all my face makeup with Mac Studio Fix powder for this as Mac face + Body was a little dewy and I wanted a matte finish.
  • Cheeks - I applied the bronzing powder by Mua in Shade 2 in a 3-shape around my face and a little down the sides of my nose. The brush i used was a Real Techniques setting brush. For blush and highlight I went with my favourite Chanel Tweed Blush.
  • Lips - As I was going to be eating at the event I wanted something that would long lasting that made a statement I created a ombre lip using Lime Crime The velvetines in Red Velvet in the centre and YSL- 206 on the edges. I loved this look the best way to get a regular lipstick to last is by applying it with a small lip brush blotting and re-applying several times to sandwich the colour.
  • Last Step - A spritz of Mac Fix +





Friday, 19 December 2014

Christmas Movie Booster

Hi Guys, I love the holiday season so any spare time I have to put on a Christmas movie I jump at the chance today I put together a list of some of my favourite movies to get me into the Christmas mood. With less than a week to go I think I’ll be spending my weekend wrapping my last few presents, Relaxing and watching as many as I can, with a hot chocolate of course ;). I hope this will inspire you guys to sit back, relax and put on something that makes you feel like a kid again. These are the movies I can never be bored of, Happy Holidays xx


  • The Grinch who stole Christmas ( my personal fav. )
  • ELF
  • Polar Express
  • Arthur Christmas
  • The ultimate Christmas Present
  • Home Alone (all of them of course )
  • Bad Santa
  • Christmas with the Kranks
  • Miracle of 34th St
  • A Christmas Carole
  • Gremlins
  • The Snowman

Thursday, 18 December 2014

Holiday Nail Idea's

Today I wanted to put together a few simple and easy Nail Designs for the festive season, perfect for a Christmas party or everyday in the lead up to Christmas. Most of my inspiration has come from gift wrap colours and textures plus a few Pinterest shots. I hope that you guys enjoy the designs I came up with and I'm sorry if it looks a little messy around the edges I went in and cleaned that up before I went out. The most important part to these designs is to be creative and have fun xx


A snapshot of the nail designs together.

Christmas Tree -  Barry M-Navy as a base, Primark
White Nail Pen and Barry M Gelly - Blood orange
for the dots on the tree, Elf- Rose Gold topped with TB-
glitter gold for the star, Topcoat of Barry M all in one. 



Golden Ombre - Camina 719 as a base followed by
ELF- rose gold, Elf- Golden goddess,
TB- gold glitter and finally H&M- Extravaganza.

Glitter Bauble -Primark white base, H&M Extravaganza
, Bauble decal Ebay.( this one was my least favourite)

Glitter Overload - Lots of layers of TB- Gold Glitter

Santa's Sweater - Barry M Gelly- Blood Orange base,
 Primark black and white pen diamonds included.



This is how I wore my festive nails.