Blargle Fargle

Go Forth and Dye Fearlessly: Preparing Your Hair

2012-01-31T08:30:00.000Z

'Go Forth and Dye Fearlessly' is a weekly feature on my blog for the next five weeks; as a hair-dye veteran I will be explaining what dyes and bleaches to go for, how to prepare your hair for dying, dying and bleaching your hair and appropriate aftercare. Of course, this is all stuff that has worked personally for me but as you're obviously not me don't take my word as gospel and please do as much research as your feel necessary to prepare yourself for transforming your hair.

Preparing your hair is a very important step to dying it; because unfortunately the process of bleaching and then dying can be very taxing on the hair. Just think of the scene-kids of a few years back with bleached white hair that looked like haystacks! This could happen to your hair if you don't take care of it first.

If your hair is in bad condition from previous dye use, I don't recommend bleaching. If your hair is currently dyed with a more normal colour (e.g. black, brown, red) my recommendation is to use Colour B4 by Scott Cornwall, which retails for around £13. I've reviewed it in a previous post and found the results excellent and my hair in far better condition for bleaching. I'd recommend leaving your hair at least a couple days after this to allow it to settle.

Switching to a moisture shampoo could also be very useful; I use Herbal Essences and occasionally Aussie and find it makes my hair feel far less dry and damaged. It's not worth buying a large one of these though as you'll probably prefer to use colour protect after dying unless you find your hair is really dry. Personally I've never used hair treatments such as Aveda's restructuring treatment but I've heard good reviews, so if you're still nervous about your hair condition it might be worth a try.

And finally, before bleaching make sure you have no cuts or sores on or around your scalp. From past experience, trust me when I say it hurts a lot if you get bleach in a sore as I have bleached my hair with psoriasis in the past. Really not recommended!

next week: bleaching your hair!

Big Decisions

2012-01-30T12:06:00.000Z

Over the past few days I've had to make some big decisions about what I am doing at Uni and regarding where I'm living; It's all come to a head now and next year, my final year of Uni, I will be taking travelling from home. It's a pretty sad moment for me because I like being more independent and living close to where everything is but it just isn't feasible for multiple reasons; whoever said students are rolling in it couldn't be more wrong! So come May I will be back at my parent's house and saving money for when I finish my course in the hopes I'll have enough to make my way up to Stoke when it's all over and rent a house with the boyfriend, and finger crossed start a masters course in counselling. It's all very scary and real right now but I know it will all work out for the best :)

The Burgundy Polka

2012-01-29T16:00:00.000Z

Other acceptable titles for this post would be 'my boobs aren't big enough for this dress' and also 'the belt is two sizes too big but damnit, I'm going to wear it anyway!'. The belt was a spur-of-the-moment purchase off ASOS; it was only £1.50 and a size 20 but I figured, the holes will go small enough for my waist. Nope. It works itself down until it's one of those 90's mid-stomach belts. Bleh. The dress actually one looks pretty dowdy because It's got the room to accomodate a far bigger bust than mine; I keep pulling apart the crossover a bit so it's a bit less so, but it creeps back. Saying that, I adore the colour of this dress! I'm wearing this for sunday lunch with my family, and to celebrate my nan's husband's birthday. Apologies for the photo quality too, I'm still getting used to Cedric's controls and the weather is rubbish today so they didn't turn out as well as last time.

dress - new look inspire // belt - asos curve // necklace - gift // flats - draven

I Heart Patterns: Topshop 2012

2012-01-29T07:00:00.000Z

I am an unabashed fan of patterns at all times (I'm not sure I own even one plain item of clothing) and browsing the Topshop selection yesterday I was happy to see my need for patterns, patterns, patterns met! There seems to be a huge variety in the upcoming seasons and in particular the sheer amount of differences in pattern, style and length of dresses means there's something everyone will like. Here's some of my favourites for you to ooh and ahh at;

Fleur Rose

2012-01-28T07:00:00.000Z

I've been feeling a bit down lately, so my mum visited and brought me flowers :) Pink and floral, my favourite. It gave me a chance to test out the macro focus on Cedric, too;

Review: 17 Magnetized Polish in Green

2012-01-27T07:45:00.000Z

I know I'm late on the bandwagon for this one (as per usual) but I'm so in love with this polish! Seriously. It makes the prettiest, unique patterns and I already reckon it's going to be at least as popular as crackle polishes. I picked mine up in boots for the lowly sum of £5.99 plus a free hide n' chic concealer and I know I'm going to get a tonne of use out of it!

The magnet is on the lid of the polish bottle and can be removed so it can be held over the nail; there's even a little curved section to rest your cuticle on but as you can tell from the picture my fingers were none too steady and on the first attempt most of the polish ended up on the magnet. A word of warning though; you need to paint one nail at a time then use the magnet otherwise it will dry and you will have to start over.

What I find most clever is the way it works; there are tiny magnetic particles within the polish that react to the magnet, creating the effect you see. The way the curved lines darken is pretty, too. I like my beauty with a bit of science attached. Oh, and please excuse the messiness of my nails as per usual, I am super lazy and just wait for the excess to fall off in the shower/from washing the dishes.

Driving Onwards

2012-01-26T11:45:00.000Z

Just a very simple outfit today; cute and comfy and perfectly suitable to my second driving lesson. I can almost go around corners and indicate at the same time, so I'm nearly there right? Ahem. This is the first set taken with my fancy new camera (Cedric) and I found one of the issues I had was on auto it had trouble focusing on a white wall. I suppose I can find ways around that but I can see why a remote could be very useful! Oh and please excuse the wonky septum piercing; I didn't notice until after, haha.

dress - topshop outlet // hoodie - new look
watch - gift // jeggings - new look tall

converse - tk maxx // nails - barry m lilac foil and pink crackle

Yesterday Evening...

2012-01-26T09:13:00.000Z

...I tried all my nail varnishes and sorted them;

...I sorted through my makeup;

...I finished Kate Beaton's Hark! a Vagrant;

(can you tell I'm loving my new camera?!)

Meet Cedric;

2012-01-25T09:36:00.000Z

My brand-new Canon EOS 1100d DSLR camera! If you follow my twitter you know how much of a palaver it was actually getting him here (my advice: don't buy from Jessops.) but he's here finally and I've never owned such a fancy camera! Now to relearn the manual settings that I haven't touched since A-Level photography...

Sarenza in Subculture: Lolita Style

2012-01-24T22:08:00.004Z

Many of my older followers know my love for the (very expensive) japanese lolita fashion trends; the puffy skirts, the cute patterns, the adorable wigs and bags... and of course the shoes. When I picture lolita I think cute mary-janes with bows and thick soles, cute accompaniments... and when I spotted this pair on Sarenza I thought they would be perfect! With white tights, a blue JSK and a short sleeve blouse for summer; too cute!

Jeffrey Campbell Papillon in Green Suede

Go Forth and Dye Fearlessly: How to Pick Bleaches and Dyes

2012-01-24T08:30:00.000Z

'Go Forth and Dye Fearlessly' is going to be a weekly feature on my blog for the next five weeks; as a veteran of dying my own hair I will be explaining what dyes and bleaches to go for, how to prepare your hair for dying, dying and bleaching your hair and appropriate aftercare. Of course, this is all stuff that has worked personally for me but as you're obviously not me don't take my word as gospel and please do as much research as you feel necessary to prepare yourself for transforming your hair.

BLEACH

The first step of getting ready to dye your hair is picking out your bleach. I wouldn't recommend one of the blonde dyes you can get from brands like Garnier or Boots as these have toners in designed to stop your hair being too orange/yellow. When you're dying over the top that's ideally how you want your hair as white can be too harsh on certain hair types.

Bleaches come in two varieties generally; 30 vol (red) and 40 vol (blue), of which 40 is stronger. The only bleach brand I can actively recommend is Directions Bleach as this is what I've always used and always gives me good results. I use the 40 vol for faster results but if your hair is mouse brown or lighter 30 vol would work fine too; for darker hair 40 vol would be best. Also base this decision on the condition of your hair. You can buy Directions four about £9.99 from a variety of online shops and also Blue Banana.

DYE

What kind of dye you want to buy depends a great deal on the effect you want. For example, if you want dye that is absolutely permanent go with Elumen, which can currently only be purchased through salon type shops or eBay. For slightly less permanent go with Special Effects, which is my current brand. On bleached hair this will last until it is grown out but will fade over time far quicker than Elumen. If you want something more temporary go for Stargazer or Crazy Colour as these will fade out entirely over time and are also cheaper. I've never used Manic Panic so I can't vouch for it.

Colour also plays a large part in how permanent dye is; pink and reds are more likely to stay in forever whereas blues and greens drop out far quicker requiring more touch-ups. Base your colour decision on how often you are willing to dye and how much time your want to spend on your hair. One final consideration is how much dye you need to buy. I use about a third to a half a bottle on my VERY short hair so longer hair may require one, two or three even!

next week: how to prepare your hair for dying.

Getting my Pin-Up Fix; Collectif

2012-01-23T11:30:00.001Z

I love vintage and pin-up fashion. Admittedly it's a very expensive hobby beyond my usual student funds but having one or two pieces can be nice. Collectif is one of my favourite brands; both due to it being based in the UK, which means no chance of customs fees, and also because it has the most adorable patterns. And the huge thing that puts them one-up over other retro brands is that fact that not every dress is a halter-neck, a shape of dress that at this stage I am sick of on 50s frocks. I own one collectif dress myself but I'm always scanning the website and they go up to a 22; far better than most retailers. Here's three of my current favourites;

Dolores - Dolores Doll - Regina Doll

Review: Good Things 'Miracle Mattifier'

2012-01-21T15:50:00.000Z

I'm not very high maintenance when it comes to any sort of daily regime but two things I always use are toner and moisturiser after a shower. Having run out of my last moisturiser (usually whatever is aimed at keeping spots away/the cheapest in the shop) I noticed this at 1/3 off in Sainsburys and being bigger than the other ones available at the price (why do they make them so small?) I picked it up with my weekly shop. I love the packing which is why I spotted it in the first place, modern and girly.

The first thing I noticed on putting it on my hand was that the smell is very strong and artificial; I wasn't expecting this as the tube states all the things it is free from, and made from 'only good things'. The second thing I noticed was how thick the moisturiser was. It was a slight struggle to get it out of the tube and in comparison to other ones I have purchased very bulky and heavy.

However, once rubbed in it felt a lot lighter and a little goes a long way. I'm not sure about mattifying properties but the skin on my hand does feel a lot softer and more hydrated. This cost £7.99 and even though it feels great on my face (I haven't needed my eczema cream since I started using it) I might be hesitant to purchase when I run out due to the lower prices of other brands.

+5 Pink Prowess

2012-01-19T09:53:00.000Z

Just a quick webcam-photo-type post (I'll take better photos soon, don't worry!) to show you my new hair and my adorable new nose ring! It's pretty and pink and a tiny bit longer than my previous horseshoe so you can see a little more of it. And to those ladies out there who haven't yet changed yours, it was seriously so easy, my mum helped me but there was no pain and removal wasn't bad at all. Better even than ear piercings in my opinion! :D As for the hair, I got it cut for free as a hair model in a local hairdressers, then bleached and dyed it myself last night with Directions 40 vol and SFX Virgin Rose. Love!

Sales Haul: A Dress Saga

2012-01-18T11:00:00.000Z

So, I went into town yesterday for the first time since before Christmas. And obviously, I caught the tail-end of the January sales and was immediately pulled into a world of insane bargains and sparkly party pieces going unloved. No prizes for guessing what ended up in my basket. If you know me in any way, it's pretty obvious!

New Look Inspire Polka Dot Wrap Dress, £12 (+ student discount)

I kept coming back to this dress when it wasn't in the sale but I wasn't quite willing to pay £25 for it; half price is far more reasonable! There were no 18s left so I went for a 20; a little big all over but the waist has a tie and I can wear a tank top to make up for the slightly large neckline.

Topshop Blue Patterned Bodycon Vest Dress £5 (+ student discount)

I'm into bodycon vest-type dresses at the moment; not so much on their own but they are wonderful layered with a baggier or cropped top when it's cold or even to hold you in as a form of (MUCH cheaper) controlwear under some of your more fitted clothes.

New Look Inspire Retro Tunic/Dress £7 (+ student discount)

When it comes to shopping, I have no shame. I will merrily browse the mens, womens, kids, petite, tall, plus-size and maternity sections and if I see something I like (that fits) I won't let some silly label hold me back. This tunic looks lovely on and because of the shirring fits me pretty well even if it is a little large, also a size 20.

River Island Floral Cord Shift Dress £9

This dress reminds me of being a little kid! I was forever in cord and denim pinafores and dungarees, so this dress is pretty nostalgic. It would also look super cute (and be super warm) with some thick tights and brown boots but just as sweet with thin tights and basic flats. Love!

How to keep safe on the Internet: Spotting a DSLR Scam

2012-01-17T09:02:00.004Z

This post is a slight departure from my usual fashion-related items but after surfing the 'net for DSLR cameras I felt the need to write this post; about the camera scam. Being internet-savvy as I am (I've spent a LONG time on here and as such am incredibly paranoid of anything and everything) I immediately smelled a rat, but I know others wouldn't. And I particularly know many bloggers and my readers love photography, cameras and in particular shiny, fancy DSLRs and the prices can be very enticing to a skint student like myself. So, here's how to spot a fake or a scam;

Your first sign is the prices. So you've been looking for a website that's doing the £500 DSLR for cheap for just about forever, and then up pops this site offering it for £200. Now is the time for your alarm bells to start ringing; the store isn't one you've ever heard of and yet they are offering ridiculously low prices on all their items.

The next thing is the payment method. Unless it's someone you know or something you have arranged contractually with a company never ever ever just send money to a bank account. There will be no record other than on their end, you will not receive a receipt and poof! your money is magically gone forever, and you will never receive that too-good-to-be-true Pentax K-x.

Other things to keep an eye out for is the company address; if it's registered to a house rather than a business then most likely it's a scam. Also always check the website you are on is genuine - and the URL spelt right - as often these sort of scams will impersonate a real brand, and some are definitely cleverer than others making spotting a fraud very difficult.

I hope this was helpful to you! I certainly know if I were a couple years younger it would have been invaluable to me, and unfortunately there are some very nasty people out there. Keep safe on the internet, everyone :)

Back to Reality

2012-01-12T15:22:00.004Z

Exams and Christmas are over, thank god! This feels like the first time I've gotten dressed properly in a month, haha. I made full use of the huge amount of light pouring into my room this morning (and highlighting all the places I haven't dusted..) To take some non-flash photos; which also explains the little bit of grainy-ness going on here. I spent the day with my mum and we went food shopping, one of the most exciting activities known to man. It was nice to see her anyway though. These photos just highlight how badly I need a haircut! The time of the shaved patch has come to an end and I'm growing it out and then chopping off a fair bit of the long side and going for full pink again. I'm so impatient for it to grow, grow, grow!

dress: primark / shirt: gift / tights: peacocks / necklace: gift / nails: george matte pink and barry m crackle

Addicted To: Paul's Boutique

2012-01-08T12:47:00.000Z

I'm not normally one for expensive bits and bobs; I'm not brand-loyal at all and as a student a lot of the time cheap rip-offs and eBay items from China are my only option. However, last year for my birthday and for Christmas I received a Paul's Boutique diamond-print bag and patent blue purse. I'm in love! I find myself browsing the website at odd moments and finding all sorts of cute patterns and I adore the fact you can buy replacement or switchable 'charms' for the bags (even if they are £16! eek!) It's more of a window-shopping experience for me but a very nice one. Here's some of my current favourite eye-candy from the website;

charm - £16, card holder - £10,
cosmetics bag - £25, tilly twister bag - £66

What's on my Desk?

2012-01-05T14:01:00.000Z

I'm taking a couple moments from my busy, busy, busy revision schedule to write up this little post for you guys; I'm sorry for the lack of outfit posts but as I just mentioned; exams are upon me so I'm revising up a storm and therefore slubbing around in jeans and a nightmare before christmas tee shirt which I'm sure no-one really wants to see a photo of! So I thought up this little mini-blog for you guys since it's a place I'll be spending a lot of time at over the next few days; desk sweet desk.

1. Super-cute Hello Kitty calendar to keep track of deadlines, comings and goings and everything else in-between. It's 'sports' themed but was also only £1.50 in Sainsburys.

2. Various geeky figurines; featured here are a Big Daddy doll from Bioshock and a 'transformers' AT-AT from Star Wars. Also around my desk but not featured is a set of moomin figures and a couple Sanrio bits and bobs.

3. Giant ceramic cupcake full of make-up. This was an (amazing!) Christmas present for my mum and until I move out an have my own kitchen it will contain all my make-up that I never wear.

4. Dory the Lenovo is my new laptop; the HP I brought on my birthday was sent back to PC World in disgrace with a botched speaker and a dead pixel after just one week. This one is blue, hence Dory.

5. Perpetual can of Pepsi Max. There is always one on my desk, it's the only type of Caffeine I consume.

6. Hello Kitty mug full of pens, pencils etc. Notice a running theme yet...?

7. IKEA lamp of uselessness. Brought for approximately £3 in the sale it eats up lightbulbs in about 3 days and has the comforting brightness and intensity of those used in interrogation scenes in films. Goes unused, normally.

What do you keep on your desk?

2012

2012-01-03T23:13:00.002Z

Happy New Year! A few days late but the thought is still there. It's great to be onto a fresh start after some cruddy things that happened last year, and it also gives me lots of things to look forward to in the future. I've made myself a little goals list for the coming year and I bet a lot of you guys out there have done the same. So here's this year's resolutions:

Kind of self-explanatory; my second year of University ends this summer and I'm going to try my hardest to pass absolutely everything, and hopefully with a good grade too.

I'm starting automatic lessons this month and by the end of this year I want my very own official pink driving licence!

I really want to remember to keep up with my blogging this year, especially as I've just hit 500(!) followers, and I don't want to disappoint all of you by doing my usual disappearing act.

This time next year the boyfriend and I will be looking seriously about moving out, houses etc. so I'm going to try and build up my savings a bit now to save the awkward moving-back-in-with-the-parents phase.

No set goals or plans here; it would just be nice to lose a bit of weight, maybe go down a dress size. Everyone is beautiful whatever size they choose to be but I think I'd feel more comfortable if I lost a little.

So, those are my resolutions! What are yours?

The Christmas Haul

2011-12-31T09:00:00.000Z

I was so lucky this holiday, I got so much and I'm super grateful for everything I received; everyone has been just so generous this year. I even treated myself to a new phone contract as mine is running out in a month's time and got myself an iPhone 3GS for only £15/month!

I celebrated Christmas eve at my boyfriend's house with his family where we did stocking presents and played Pictionary and then spent Christmas day with mine; we travelled up to my nan's and had a lovely Christmas lunch there as well as exchanging presents. And then it was back to the boyfriend's for the evening to watch old films and eat leftovers. A very good day overall. I hope you all had awesome Christmasses too. Here's just some(!) of my haul this year;

Review: Barry M Ltd. Edition Lilac Foil Nail Polish

2011-12-29T10:49:00.003Z

With one of my Christmas Pressies (a Superdrug Voucher!) I went and purchased one of these new nail effects 'foil' polishes by Barry M that everyone has been talking about; and let me tell you, I wasn't disappointed! One of the great things about this polish if you're a messy painter like me is that it comes off from around your nails incredibly easy whilst staying perfect on the nail. And I adore the metallic grey-silver tone of the colour, it's a little bit different from all the other polishes I own. The polish seems pretty long-lasting too, this was after a couple day's wear and it has lasted well.

Skating on Ice

2011-12-26T16:28:00.000Z

On Christmas Eve I went with my boyfriend, his sister and her boyfriend (and a couple of her friends) to nearby Ice-Skating rink at a garden centre. It was lovely and festive. I couldn't skate because of my ongoing problems with my knees but I had fun watching everyone else fall over and taking pictures! These photos were all taken on my new iPhone 3GS so apologies if they're worse quality than you're used to about the blog; I'm still getting used to using it :)

Happy Portalmas!

2011-12-25T08:00:00.001Z

...and christmas, and holidays, and wintereenmas or whatever it is you celebrate! Whoever and wherever you are I hope you have a lovely day with friends, family and lots of great food. Here's an ambiguous non-religious holiday illustration that everyone (who has played portal) can appreciate;

Bristol Blogger Xmas Party: Boohoo Fashion Show Picks

2011-12-20T08:30:00.001Z

One of the highlights of the blogger party was the mini fashion show put on by boohoo.com; there were some truly drool-worthy clothes in there! I took lots and lots of pictures and can I just say, the styling on the models was amazing! Some beautiful hair going on here as well as make-up. Here were some of my favourite picks;

This fake-leather-type dress was lovely, though I'm not sure I could pull it off myself! I love the idea of teaming it with a floaty floral type jacket as it takes the edge off the punkiness a little. Not too keen on the shoes, a little blah for me.

I loved this dress; very simple and elegant but draped enough to be flattering and short enough to work with trousers too if you wanted. I love these heels but unfortunately the models proved to us they can be very hard to walk in; the poor girls were stepping like show-horses to keep them on their feet!

The best for last; I adored this little red number, I think it is the kind of thing I would wear and wear, especially with the slightly punky belt. Swap out the peep-toe heels for some DMs and ta-dah! A very 'me' outfit.

Caketastrophie

2011-12-18T09:00:00.001Z

The lovely Rosie got me a giant(!) cupcake baking set for our early christmas, and I just couldn't wait to use it; so here's my first, and disastrous, attempt. Basically, I didn't give the cake long enough in the oven and also didn't use enough mix so it sort of... collapsed in on yourself. My dad called it a 'cupsplat'. Thanks, dad! It still tasted yummy though.

Woolly Squirrels

2011-12-17T10:00:00.001Z

I wasn't too sure on this jumper when I stuck it on for these photos, and since then I've returned it. It would be truly lovely on someone else but to be honest I'm just not comfortable in jumpers; give me thin layers any day! I first picked it up because the print was too darling and also it was not only the last one in the shop, it was in my size. So I'm returning it for someone who will take care of it and love it as such a beautiful garment requires. Oh, and also did I mention the squirrels? :D

jumper: matalan | skirt: warehouse via outfit | leggings: topshop

A Change in the Fashion Winds

2011-12-16T07:30:00.002Z

Call me fickle, but I've suddenly become hugely in like with bodycon - or tube - style skirts and dresses; something I would never, ever wear about three months ago. In winter they are just so practical to wear in rainy and gross weather and you can layer them like anything and with anything, from floaty dresses to tight tees. Love!

topshop - new look - river island - miss selfridge

dotcom

2011-12-15T08:12:00.006Z

Blargle Fargle has moved! I've finally made the transition over to my own '.com' address and I'm so pleased about it :D according to blogger redirection should happen automatically but just in case you might want to update your bookmark links to blarglefargle.com! <3

Early Xmas

2011-12-14T12:12:00.003Z

Tomorrow I am off home for the christmas holiday, so today is a Uni-friends fake christmas day; this morning I exchanged presents with my housemates (and got some lovely things in return), and in a bit I am off to the pub for lunch with the girls on my course and the exchance secret santa presents! All very exciting. The only cloud to my silver lining (reverse metaphor there) is that the lovely white and pink flock print docs I ordered turned out not to exist and the company have not been very forthcoming with my refund, only sorting it this morning. On the hunt for pretty docs again, then.

dress: primark, cardi: h&m, tights: peacocks,

necklace: gift, nails: essence colour & go in choose me!

Bodycon Blue

2011-12-10T10:36:00.005Z

Look at me wearing bodycon like that! Would you believe it? A few months ago I wouldn't have either and yet here I am. This 'skirt' is actually a heinously short dress; as it is I have to have the 'top' under my boobs because if I pulled it over the length would be slightly short of decent to say the least. I think I'll get lots of wear out of it, though, as it's a good 'layering' piece and for £3 in the sale you can't really go wrong, can you? Today I'm getting my now-unruly fluffball of hair chopped down to the length it should be, seeing my parents and starting my revision for my silly january exams, which I'm stressing over already.

dress: topshop, tee: iron fist, tights: ?, necklace: gift

nails: models own peach sherbert, pink cookie pink and topcoat, sharpie marker

Eyecandy

2011-12-07T10:29:00.004Z

I got new glasses! They cost a cringeworthy amount, but that's mostly because I'm blind as a bat and my prescription cost more than the frames since they need to be thinned at least 25% so I don't have tiny moleman eyes. The brand is Superdry and I got them from Vision Express. Let's hope my prescription doesn't change any more for now (like it has been every year since I was 8!) because I certainly can't afford another pair for a while!

My Birthday: In Photos

2011-12-05T19:36:00.005Z

Hello everyone! I had a wonderful 21st birthday, I didn't do much (except drag my poor family/boyfriend around computer shops!) but it was just perfect. Here's a little photo-diary of what I received - feeling super lucky right now!;

My parents also got me driving lessons; so scared! I've already sent off for my provisional, eek D: I'm really grateful though, it's something I couldn't have afforded on my own in a million years! I also got lots of amazon vouchers for my new kindle, so I have a little file of books to read on there already! The HP laptop was a present to myself, and it's fair to say I'm pretty in love with her already :3

JD Williams: Winter Warmers

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000Z

Not that it's finally looking more like winter (and it's December! what is going on, weather?) my mind has turned to one thing fashion-wise; coats, coats, coats! JD Williams do some gorgeous plus size coats that look they would look so snuggly for the colder months - or month, who knows? it could be tropical by January, but in the meantime I'd like to look good whilst freezing to death! These are a couple cuties I've been intensely window-shopping the past few days;

An Almost-Birthday

2011-11-30T14:49:00.004Z

My 21st Birthday is this Saturday but as I'm going home tomorrow my lovely housemate Rosie surprised me with cake and gifts today! I also got gifts off of my other housemates and a lovely present from Jess, I'm too spoiled! Now, I'm going to go off and eat more cake and pack for going-home time, and I'm having lunch with my nan tomorrow morning too! :D

Cake and Pressies! Rosie got me the cutest nail polish set and a tiny stuffed bear ♥

Gifts from Jess! I got a 'Mr. Owl', nail polish and some super sweet jewellery.

Omnomnom ♥

Marisota: Playing Dress-Up

2011-11-29T12:18:00.008Z

With a lot of plus-size clothing these days, I have the problem that there isn't a large amount of variety with what is out there; similar to problems with finding things long enough or short enough in the shoulders (I have very small shoulders, let's not get into that.). It's either frumpy and middle-aged or trying too hard to fight some kind of self-righteous war that plus-sized ladies deserve to wear tiny bandage LBDs and ridiculous crop tops as much as the 'skinny' girls (which I wouldn't wear no matter what my size!). These plus-sized fashion cuties (available from a size 14) from Marisota, however, are just too cute! Joe Browns in particular has been a favourite brand for a while and it's nice to see it out there for all sizes;

Cute to Boot

2011-11-27T10:45:00.000Z

I'm still totally in love with these boots. They've worn in so well and they're now buttery-soft and super warm in the cold weather; though it's not anywhere near as cold as I would expect for November! This outfit was yesterday's from when Rosie and myself took a slightly misguided trip into Cardiff on what is known as 'the busiest weekend of the year'; and it really lived up to it's name. I'm not good with crowds so I got a bit of a stress-head on. But I still managed to pick up a few Christmas presents whilst I was out and about! I've only got the bare minimum to make/get now (lots of chocolates to make as shown in my last post!). And it's not even December! Feeling accomplished.

dress: peacocks shirt: gift tights: peacocks boots: dr martens via schuh

Crafty Christmas: Chocolate Cuties

2011-11-25T12:47:00.005Z

This Christmas, being a poor student, money is a real problem for me. However, I hit on a great idea and I thought I'd share it with you guys; home-made chocolates! These are super easy and cheap to make but the time and effort you put into them still makes it all worthwhile. This is the first batch I made that will soon be winging their way to the boyfriend's lovely housemates, and I'm really proud of how well they came out. I think overall per person the expenditure was about £2? Not bad. So here's what you have to do:

YOU WILL NEED: chocolate, silicone ice cube trays, cello bags, ribbon.

one. get yourself some chocolate! for this batch I use a BIG bar of a galaxy and two smaller lindt white chocolate/vanilla bars. You can also use other bits and bobs like honeycomb, caramel, nuts and flavourings or even odd things like cinnamon and chili! but this time I kept it simple.

two. melt your first 'layer'; I used milk on top and white on bottom so I melted the milk first and filled in half of the silicone moulds. These were then put in the freezer to set for about a half-hour. You can test how solid they are by poking it with your finger; as you're filling in the bottom layer you won't see any fingerprints.

three. repeat the process! melt the white (but be careful as white burns very easily) and pour on top of the milk chocolate in the moulds. Freeze again. If you want to do more layers you can, just follow step 2 over again.

four. pop out of the trays, stick in a little cello bag and tie with a ribbon! And you're done! Easy, right? It's a nice little gift for any chocolate lover, especially if you use fancy chocolate and cute accents. Using an icing bag to pipe designs on the top could be sweet also.

Creepy Punky Halloween-y

2011-11-23T16:03:00.005Z

I know, I know, Halloween and all that is long over but I seem to be getting into the spooky spirit just now! I think all the hair-dye may be having an effect on my brain as I seem to be making an abrupt turn from florals and frilly to punky and (maybe a little) gothy, though I still love pink. The season's finally caught up with me. Here's a couple pieces I'm loving at the moment, that are making me made doe-eyes at my overdraft limit, haha. These would all look awesome with ripped tights, docs (or these heels!) and bright hair;

one. iron fist 'muertos' tee

two. TUK platinum leopard heels

three. kreepsville 666 zombie barbie mini

four. criminal damage zebra shorts

five. hell bunny tartan zip dress

A Birthday Wishlist

2011-11-12T08:51:00.002Z

In 3 weeks it's going to be my birthday; my 21st in fact, but that doesn't matter very much to me and I'm really not planning to do anything for it if possible - I just don't enjoy things like that! I'd much rather spend the evening in with the boyfriend who should be coming down and visiting for it, which will be lovely. But anyway, one thing I do like about birthdays; presents! Here's what I'd love to receive this year:

one. this cute little hipflask is from urban outfitters, and I love the girly take on it! there are lots of different patterns and fabrics available too; I first spotted them back in October at the SW blogger meet and couldn't help taking a closer look. I'd keep, I don't know, orange squash in it or something.

two. this eyeshadow palette is by the amazing sugarpill, and I've heard some seriously great things about them. If I had this I'd probably wear eyeshadow a lot more often!

three. it's no secret I'm a Lolita fan; it's just a shame it's so, so expensive a fashion style. At least sites like bodyline are reasonably cheap and very cute, too. I could order millions upon millions of adorable jsk's from that site.

four. dr. martens 'triumph' boots; these ones have a floral interior as well which is just too sweet, and the ribbon makes them super girly as well as being warm and weatherproof. not to mention how pretty that purple shade is. Oh, and I know I already own these in brown but the purple is just TOO cute :3

five. a pink laptop! this is the one ridiculous item on my list, because there's no way i'm getting one. but isn't it so adorable?

six. 'daisy' by marc jacobs. they are my favourite flowers and also the scent of this is lovely, though to be honest it isn't at the top of my list because I have lots of other lovely perfumes already that I don't wear enough as it is!

Making Scaffolding

2011-11-09T20:07:00.001Z

Just a quick one-photo post here to show you the newest part of my (small) collection, my scaffold piercing! I've gone a little piercing mad lately haha but I don't have any more planned for a while, that's for sure. Mind you, against my Septum Piercing nothing (facial-wise) can be as painful, I'm sure :p

Sky Explosions

2011-11-05T17:48:00.005Z

This is what I will be wearing to go out and watch the fireworks tonight. Later on I think I might watch V for Vendetta because hey, if there's any day to watch it it's today! Check out my winter Docs too, these wore in so much faster than the other pairs I've owned and the ribbon laces are just darling too; not to mention they're super warm. Other than fireworks, today is made up of writing, writing, writing as I have a lab report due Tuesday. 1,900 words in out of 2,500 so it's not all bad. I look really miserable in this photo but I promise I'm not; just out of practice with taking photos of myself! Edit: I added a couple fireworks photos 'cos I'm really happy with how they came out c:

top: iron fist ; vest: peacocks ; boots: schuh ; jeans: matalan ; cardigan: h&m

I'm Not Dead

2011-11-02T11:26:00.003Z

(photo c/o Rosie and featuring her, too)

Hey guys, I know it seems like I vanished off the face of the earth and I've been such a bad blogger! I will be back soon, I promise, double promise! Here's a little list of what I've been up to 'off-blog' that might clear my absence up a little;

starting my second year of uni properly
stressing over procrastinating over second-year uni assignments(!)
joining nightline, my university's night-time counselling phone service
seeing my boyfriend
the south wales blogger meetup
wearing in my new docs
going home for birthdays
having two halloweens (one good, one not-so-good)
being ill, as of last sunday.

WANT! Soap and Glory Cosmetics

2011-10-19T14:06:00.006+01:00

I'm not a makeup person usually, but I will fully admit to being a soap and glory junkie! I love all their products, and the imitation supermarket products just can't compare, especially smell-wise. So when I heard S&G brought out a cosmetics range I had to jump online and take a look. These are my favourite bits, I'd love to try them out! In particular the blush looks super sweet, and I've heard good things about the 'lid stuff' eyeshadow:

blush £11 / concealer and 'lid stuff' £10 / all boots

To Cardiff!

2011-10-15T19:33:00.003+01:00

I know, I know. Bad Blogger. The SW Blogger Meet-Up was truly amazing, in fact so great I entirely forgot to take any photos whatsoever! Not so good. So I'll be waiting until everyone else has stuck their photos up and nab a couple (with credit of course) to illustrate my upcoming post about it. Today is one of my housemate's birthdays; we made her an amazing cake (chocolate, chocolate and a bit more chocolate) and we're off to Cardiff today for a shopping/fashion show trip. Here's my outfit for bus-ing my way into the Welsh Capital;

dress: primark / cardi: ebay / shoes: charity shop / necklace: topshop

Cupcake Pink and White

2011-10-08T10:19:00.002+01:00

Check out my hair, guys! I'm feeling right back to being myself again and I'm so happy about it, who knew hair colour (and cut) could make that much of a difference to how I feel? Well, brown hair looks beautiful on so many people but I just felt it looked blah on me, so when I looked in the mirror any inspiration I had for blogging just vanished, whoosh. Other than dying my hair, lately I've been trying to keep up with Uni work and that's pretty much it; I'm not regretting choosing Biological Basis of Behaviour as one of my modules, but wow it's such hard work! I'm dreading when the assignments start pouring in too, though at least I'm only doing four subjects right now. There's also the South Wales Blogger Meet to look forward to that is happening very soon, expect a bumper post on that after the 12th :3

dress: bodyline via ebay | cardi: new look via ebay | shoes: draven

necklace: gift | hair: special fx cupcake pink and directions 40 vol bleach

Friday Sunny Friday

2011-09-30T15:06:00.004+01:00

What's going on with this British weather, guys? The leaves are falling from the trees at the same time as all the flowers start to bloom again and the heat is indian-summer tropical! Not to say I'm not enjoying it, buy could the nice weather maybe have started the week before I started lectures? And if I'm honest, my lectures have been seriously kicking my bum, the difficulty level has definitely gone up several notches; I will be spending my weekend trying to revise neuroanotomy and preparing a presentation on the regulations of counselling. Well, luckily today I don't have lectures and I've given myself the day off so it's off into town with Rosie for some birthday-present-hunting and window shopping :D

dress: internacionale / cardi: new look / necklace: llrok / shoes: ?

The Autumn Wardrobe Dilemma

2011-09-25T08:33:00.000+01:00

After Spring, Autumn is my favourite season. I have a thing for those in-between months when it isn't too hot or isn't too cold (though we're due snow in October this year! eek!) and there's all those pretty falling leaves and it's back-to-school time all over again. However, my one big problem with Autumn is I just don't know what to wear. I'm not a fan of sweater dresses or jumpers and I find the A/W clothing palettes quite dull if I'm honest. Dark and dreary. So far I've just been swapping out my tights for jeans and my shoes for boots, along with a a warmer cardi and, as it gets colder, my now yonks-old Hell Bunny bear-ear coat. However, a couple little pieces from New Look caught my eye and I'm just wondering if they could slot into my style and be wearable to me. What do you guys think, how would I incorporate these bits and bobs?

Tea Party Chic

2011-09-23T12:08:00.004+01:00

... or, 'what I wish I was wearing today'. This may not have been an actual outfit but I had to stick this dress on just to show you guys, before changing back into 'everyday' clothes to wander up to Uni for my enrolment. I assumed this dress was going to be what I call an 'casualty of eBay' as along with another dress from the same seller it didn't show up for ages, the seller was busy, on holiday, yada yada yada. I'd given up hope (and practically had my mouse hovering over the 'dispute' button when it arrived at the door along with a lovely bodyline(!) dress that will be shown at a later date. Isn't it just Cupcake Perfection?

dress: collectif via ebay / leggings: topshop / heels: irregular choice / necklace: gift

More Like Me

2011-09-22T11:08:00.002+01:00

These photos were taken on the Tuesday, but I'm trying to keep an every-other-day posting schedule going for the moment so here we are two days into the future! I wore this outfit to meet up with some lovely girls on my course; Jess you may know as she runs the cutest little crafty and makeup-based blog and also sells jewellery. It's nice to see Uni friends again; I adore my housemates but it's great having people to moan about my course with, as everyone else in my house is doing arts courses! I'm feeling better now too, a day in bed and copious amounts of peanut butter on toast works wonders. Right now I am getting really fed up of my hair though, I just don't know what to do with it; it's a fluffy, random-lengthed too-long mess, I really need to do something with it before I just tear it all out!

Product Feature: La Riche 'Tatt Splatt'

2011-09-20T08:15:00.002+01:00

Last time I got a tattoo, I used this 'hemp' type tattoo balm, and though it went on well I found it just too strong-smelling and not moisturising for my tastes, so when my tattooist recommended la riche's 'tatt splatt' I bought it right away, especially since I've been a fan of their hair products for years too.

The first thing that struck me was the colour; you can't really go wrong with a nice, bright lilac -y purple though admittedly it isn't the most clinical looking shade. It smells gorgeous too. I've also tried using it as a lip balm and it works pretty well as that also (and gives it extra use as I can guarantee there will be lots left even after your tats are healed), as the main ingredients are beeswax and shea butter. The first problem comes when you attempt to apply the cream. If you're caught out longer than you wanted and you need to moisturise your tats, sanitation can be an issue. The only way to apply if using your fingers and unlike something that comes from a tube you can risk contaminating the whole pot with dirty fingers.

Another issue is the consistency; it's pretty hard, which makes it very difficult to rub onto a scabbed tattoo without causing damage unless rubbed between your fingers for ages to warm it properly (which you are not told to do in the instructions.) however, once you've got it on it lasts ages and you probably will only need to touch it up occasionally. I've also found it works really well to brighten up older tattoos as well. Overall I'd give it a 4/5.

Beaches of Gold Glitter

2011-09-18T11:49:00.003+01:00

I'm back! Though to be honest I'm not feeling my best; yesterday was meant to be spent planning and writing posts to schedule but in the end I spent the day in bed with a box of tissues due to the horrid cold my boyfriend gave me. Tut. I've also been figuring out the dynamics of taking photos in my room; with my usual landscape format I just can't fit enough of my outfit in so it looks like I'm going portrait-style from now on. Despite still feeling full of cold, I had to stick to my guns and post something, so inspired by the lovely Lauren of Pocket Rocket Fashion here's me all dressed up but not even leaving my bedroom (yes, wearing heels is 'dressing up' to me). I'm going to make myself go back to posting consistently even if it kills me, despite the appalling internet here in the house. Expect a lot more from me over the next few weeks ladies ;D

A Brief Hiatus

2011-09-05T11:46:00.004+01:00

Sorry guys, I'm in Stoke with my boyfriend (and without my camera) until the 14th and then I'm moving back into my Uni house the 17th, so I should be back around the 18th. I promise I'll make up for the missed half-a-month for sure with lots of features and outfit posts, so please stay awesome and keep an eye out all of you lovely followers ♥

Aventures Française: Botmeur

2011-08-30T09:43:00.001+01:00

Botmeur is the commune in which the Boyf's parent's house is, and it's a lovely little village with pretty little houses and a church, as well as a shop that has the most delicious bread. The house itself is just too sweet for words; when they first got it, it was a run-down flooded little thing with mould everywhere and no electricity; you wouldn't think to look at it now! Wild boar and other animals wander into the garden at night, too, it's quite surreal.

DOTW: Peacocks Peter Pan Collar Dress

2011-08-27T15:32:00.000+01:00

Peter Pan Collar Dress, £20

This dress is just the epitome of 60's cute; can't you just picture it with white heeled boots and black woolly tights? I think the tiny flowers are just too cute, and along with the contrast belt you don't need much to make it a complete outfit. Despite the description as 'drop-waist', the waist isn't so low as to be unflattering and could always be hitched up a little for a more hourglass silhouette.

To The Zoo

2011-08-26T08:17:00.002+01:00

For Edd's Sister's birthday she went to the Zoo, and Edd and I tagged along. We had such a fun time! Bristol Zoo is lovely and they seem like they care for their animals well, not to mention they have two out of three of my favourite animals; Red Pandas and Okapi! No Axolotls, but you can see them in most pet shops. I thought I'd throw some photos up here since I don't know anyone who doesn't like looking at cute animals, especially the little Capybara who was snuggling up with the Tapir family. Oh, and a silly photo of the boyfriend (I don't think I ever manage to get a serious photo of him) to break it up a little.

Aventures Française: Bord du Lac

2011-08-25T09:14:00.001+01:00

One of my favourite parts of the mini-holiday was this beautiful man-made lake we found, right near the house. It had lovely clear water and such cute little fish that nibbled on your toes if you went in the water! Not to mention how lovely and sunny it was and the tiny little beach there was to sit on. We arrived around 12-ish and it was deserted other than a couple tourists, which was wonderful; in Britanny between 12-2 is normally lunchtime so no-one goes out, meaning we had until about 3 to spread out and swim and eat picnics under the trees.

Shoe Picnic: Marian Pomone Marine/Grey

2011-08-23T08:20:00.000+01:00

This is going to be the last Shoe Picnic, for a while at least, so I thought I'd better make it a good one! I have so much love for these Marian Pomone boots, they look like something Kirsten Dunst would've worn in Marie Antoinette; so elegant and just the perfect shoes for lolita edwardian type dresses too. So, so much want. I'd team these for a more victorian-modern twist with white tights, black pinstripe shorts and a deep blue blouse for a cute but practical outfit - think a female Adam Ant!

Aventures Française: Sizun Fest Noz

2011-08-20T09:13:00.002+01:00

Fest Noz is Breton for 'Night Festival', and is a really lovely traditional event with lots of local businesses and farmers involved as well as lots of dancing, the style of which mostly dates back to medieval times. The one we attended in Sizun was great, with live music and great traditional costume and by the evening all the villagers (and some brave visitors) were joining in with the dancing and it just looked amazing. Unfortunately, this year there were no fireworks due to the church being still covered in scaffolding from the last time fireworks were launched off it. During the day there was a lot of sweet little stalls too, selling miel (honey) and baskets and cider. There were also lots of demonstrations like sheep shearing and rope making.

Grey Spotted

2011-08-19T09:32:00.005+01:00

I nabbed this dress in a sale in the french chain shop cache cache; which is like the equivalent of new look over there. This frock was only €15 which really isn't a bad price, and it's so comfy too, even if it isn't the most flattering. The thing I like most about this outfit is the shoes; my long-suffering cat shoes finally kicked the bucket whilst I was over there (i.e. the sole came off almost entirely) so I had to nab these in a shoe shop in france; it's a little nerve wracking trying to buy shoes when you speak little to none of the language! I managed though. Super proud of myself. Ah, also you may notice my hair having changed a little too! I'm now officially 'dark auburn', and appropriate for placement starting in the new Uni year. I'm going to miss the bright colours, though... *sigh*

dress: cache cache / tights: topshop / shoes: random french shop

Review: Scott Cornwall 'Colour B4' Hair Colour Remover in 'Extra'

2011-08-18T11:03:00.001+01:00

I love my hair. I love being able to dye it different colours and bleach it and mess it about with nearly no negative effect on my hair itself; it never seems to get dry and it's never fallen out, not even after a marathon 7-hour bleaching session at the hairdressers. However, I was a little apprehensive about using this as the dye I had on my hair previous to the red is elumen, and incredibly strong dye which is a moo to get out. I picked the 'extra' pack because I would consider my hair having colour build-up due to the red on top of the pink.

Following the instructions, I used almost a whole bottle on my hair (which was slight overkill but a waste otherwise, you get a lot). The liquid itself is clear though apparently it stains clothing and upholstery. One of the only things about this product I didn't like was the smell; it's very, very strong and chemical and after the hour of developing was up it was giving me a bit of a headache. However, without even washing my hair I could see lots of the colour lifting out already, even though the box states the colour is still there and just 'washes out' when you rinse your hair, due to the dye molecules shrinking. So, after rinsing my hair for 10 minutes, lathering this buffer shampoo in twice and rinsing that for a while, this is the result;

Not bad, right? It's stripped all of the red live xxl dye from my hair with ease and also has taken quite a bit of the elumen too, so you can see patches of hair that had been previously bleached. The box didn't actually recommend using this on unusual coloured hair but I thought the pink was so faded at this point it would be the red I was trying to remove. Overall, I'm really pleased with the result and my hair is ready to dye again! You can grab the 'Colour B4' box from between £10-13 and it's stocked in lots of high street beauty shops.

Aventures Française: Huelgoat

2011-08-16T09:09:00.003+01:00

Since I took an impromptu trip to France with no time to stagger some posts over my 'away' time, I thought I needed to make up to it with a new four-part mini feature about my little break away, and the lovely places I visited. I found a lot of the things I did really fun and interesting and I hope you will too! My first port of call is Huelgoat (well-gwatt), a town I visited last time I was in Finistère but it's far better without torrential rain and general winter miserable-ness. It's a very pretty town with lots of ancient forest and a kind of mystical overtone with Devil's caves and Fairy Lakes as well as Mushroom Rocks.

Shoe Picnic: Melissa 'Wanting' Grey Ballerinas

2011-08-15T10:15:00.000+01:00

I have a thing for grey shoes with bows. Well, any shoes with bows; but these are particularly sweet! And I really do have a soft spot for Melissa shoes. They're both waterproof (perfect for British weather) and nice-smelling, not really an essential but nice all the same. If I got these 'Wanting' flats on my feet I don't think they'd ever come off again.

A Little Punk

2011-08-08T13:20:00.007+01:00

I kinda took a little impromptu break from blogging for a week; I don't know what it was but I just didn't feel up to it at all and ended up slobbing around a lot doing not much. Though we did end up going out the the pub on thursday with our lovely friends, and then to Bristol. It is lovely and sunny out today, but so so windy! It was hard to grab a good shot and these were all I ended up with, unfortunately. The sweet tartan shorts were a steal on eBay and since the brand the H! by Henry Holland I thought they'd be a little on the smaller side of the sizing scale, so I nabbed these 18s. However, they seem to be a size and a half too big, maybe even more, which is really unfortunate as they are super soft and cute. I don't know if it's the same for all this brand but these are sure on the big side of an 18!

dress: primark / tights: topshop / cardi: h&m / necklace: ? /

shorts: h! by henry holland via ebay / doc martens: c/o spartoo

Shoe Picnic: Irregular Choice 'Patty' Union Flag Heels

2011-08-05T09:36:00.002+01:00

These shoes are just the embodiment of cute; and don't they remind anyone of the 90's so much? In a good way of course. Speaking from experience, Patty Heels are generally one of the more easily wearable and mixable shoes in the Irregular Choice collection, but they always have a cute colour pop or pattern to make up their relative ordinariness. I'd wear these cuties with a blue 60's tea dress and red accessories for a retro dance party type style.

He Punched the Highlights out of Her Hair

2011-07-28T17:48:00.004+01:00

Today my mum came to visit me at my house, and brought with her the boots I've been waiting to come in the post. I swear, it was love at first sight! Even though it's not exactly the right weather I've already been wearing these non-stop, though at least I have the excuse that I'm wearing them in I suppose. I don't think this would be a normal outfit I'd wear the boots with but I was already wearing them for lounging about the house and I just had to take photos right away, because they are just prettiest thing I've ever owned, I think. I feel like a cross between a Final Fantasy character and Ramona Flowers ♥

floral dress: dorothy perkins / floral shorts: new look /

nail polish: barry m, mint / boots of awesome: dr martens c/o spartoo

DOTW: River Island Turquoise Bow Prom Dress

2011-07-28T07:38:00.005+01:00

River Island Turquoise Bow Prom Dress, £44.99

I haven't been doing as much window shopping as I normally do; I'm currently residing in skintsville and it doesn't seem likely I'll be leaving soon so seeing all these beautiful A/W collections popping up make me a little sad. This dress was too pretty to pass up featuring though; admittedly it's a remake of this dress featured previously but the block colour change-up makes my heart flutter and that big turquoise bow... so much want!

My Leopard Print Heart

2011-07-27T13:20:00.003+01:00

Back in the day I used to be stoically against several fashion faux pas; leggings, trainers with dresses and leopard print. Safe to say I've changed my spots, ahem. Today's outfit is pure comfort, with a little cosy thrown in by my thermal ski leggings from topshop, which I've had for ages but since I don't ski or anything of the sort seemed a pretty stupid buy despite how bargainous they were at the time (£3 I think), but while unpacking my room I dug them out and discovered they actually looked quite cute not hidden under other clothes. They have a sweet little snowflake pattern my camera couldn't really pick up, too.

dress: peacocks / leggings: topshop / cardigan: h&m /

shoes: pastry via tk maxx / necklace: claires / socks: peacocks

Hawaiian Rollercoaster Ride

2011-07-26T19:11:00.003+01:00

Only a quick post, today. I just realised I never showed you guys my onesie from the PJ party I went to the other day! though the one I'm wearing is actually called a Kigurumi, it's like a japanese onesie without the feet and it's so, so cosy! Right now I'm meant to be at our normal Tuesday RPG sesh, but thanks to a big lorry setting on fire and then exploding in Newport, the M4 is closed which means we can't get back to play in time :c

Isca Augusta

2011-07-24T14:10:00.003+01:00

The title of this post is the roman name for the village my lovely Uni house is in, Caerleon. Awesome right? I'm really enjoying being back in my cute little room (with all it's pink accessories!) and it's nice to have some time with the boyfriend too as he's now (finally!) finished work. Of course, it helps he's just bought himself a Nintendo Wii so we're plenty entertained, between that and the Mad Men box set. And one of the best things about my room is the huuuge blank wall, perfect for indoor outfit shoots! I'm planning to do a couple lifestyle type posts about what there is to do here, like the roman amphitheater and the museum, and a few other things perhaps. What do you guys think to that?

dress: river island (ebay) / leggings: topshop / cardi: h&m / necklace: topshop

of Piers and PJs (and Bouncy Castles)

2011-07-22T08:11:00.005+01:00

The party I went to was a lot of fun! First of all we went to the Pier and went on all the arcade-y things (but didn't win anything of course :c) I took a load of pictures of us out in town out and about, (and the birthday girl looks beautiful in her Hell Bunny dress, so jelly) but literally as soon as we headed back to the house the heavens opened. It didn't stop up though, there was lots of slipping about and a little bouncing on the bouncy castle in the sopping wet - but because of the rain there aren't any photos unfortunately. Yes, we did all get soaked but afterwards we warmed up in our onesies and ordered in Dominoes so all was good.

Tell 'em the story, Rain Drop.

2011-07-21T10:58:00.008+01:00

Today's blog title is from the lyrics of a They Might Be Giants song, my favourite on their new album in fact. It's called Cloisonné and I swear I've just been listening to it on repeat for the past few days! Rekindled my love for TMBG for sure. Today is one of my oldest friends' birthdays (well, yesterday was,) and we're celebrating by first of all going to the arcades and on the pier in town then back to her house for a PJ party and bouncy castle! We're such mature 20-somethings, aren't we? Hehe.

dress: spin doctor / jeans: DP / cardi: DP /shoes: draven

foundation: collection 2000 perfect finish / concealer: benefit / mascara: collection 2000 collagen curl / eyeshadow: 17 vintage love palette / blush: 17 blush and glow

Shoe Picnic: DC Manteca 2 Mid Skater Shoes

2011-07-20T10:59:00.004+01:00

As much of a fan as I am of heels and 'pretty' shoes, practical does come into my shoewear collection somewhat. Not that this means I completely ignore the pretty options, though! These DC Manteca Mid Skaters are just as cute as they are comfy for walking. They remind me of when I first started going out with the boyf and would steal his old, battered DC's (two sizes too big) to walk home in as they were sooo comfy!

Wishlist: Comics and other Geekery

2011-07-20T08:49:00.017+01:00

Sometimes I realise, with a blog that's primarily fashion-based, I tend to only show oine part of my personality. The part that likes girly things, cutesy clothes and bold patterns. Not to mention dresses, dresses, dresses! So I thought maybe it's time to integrate a little more of the geeky girl side of me into the blog. Instead of a compilation of cute outfits, these are the comics, games, figures and other geekery I'm currently lusting after;

one. Minecraft merch, of any form, but these magnets are particularly cute.

two. Vampire the Masquerade: Bloodlines is a game I've been wanting for a while.

three. Final Fantasy plushes. This Cactuar soft toys is on my want list!

four. Pink Sparkly Dice! okay, so a bit of girliness seeping through there, ahem.

five. The Wet Moon comic series is one I've been meaning to get into for a time.

six. The Ame-Comi figures series. In particular Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy.

seven. Ramona's Bag from Scott Pilgrim. I plan to dress as her for Halloween.

Daisies on Daisies on Daisies

2011-07-19T09:46:00.002+01:00

My hair is now at that awkward length where it's too long to settle into a side-fringe and too short to be properly swept to the side so it's turned into a bit of a shaggy, lopsided full fringe. Eek. So until I can get myself to the hairdressers I'll have to make do with strategically placed hairclips (Hello Kitty ones, of course). I felt like dressing flowery and girly today - spending the weekend at the boyf's always leads me to dress slobbish-ly, bad habit right there. It's nice and sunny today but still cool enough that I'm not baking in my cardi and jeans as I've slightly idiotically packed most of my clothes - including tights and leggings - up for heading back to my house this weekend for a few weeks.

Today is Tuesday, which means D&D night though currently we're playing an 'Atlantis' game played on a fudge dice (which are like 6-sided dice with + and - and blanks instead of numbers) and fate system rather than the typical D&D setup. It's pretty fun, though it's weird using a completely different set of dice and rules! I'm missing using my pretty gem-coloured D20s and D8s a little, haha. And speaking of gaming, I've been playing Minecraft again; and I'm really into it right now. I'm loving mining and building my own little islands and houses but I'm not loving the creepers and skeletons so much.

dress: primark / jeans: dorothy perkins / cardi: dorothy perkins / flats: draven / necklace: ?

Shoe Picnic: Iron Fist 'Twinkle Toes' Heels

2011-07-13T08:10:00.000+01:00

'Pretty' is the first word I'd use to describe these shoes, which isn't often used in conjunction to anything by Iron Fist, but these really really are! Sparkly and girly and just too cute. Very high, though, I reckon these Twinkle Toes heels could only be worn out when you have a partner/good friend to lean on; I know that would be the case for me anyway! I think I'd wear these cuties with a sweet lolita-style dress (in purple or black) or maybe a cute 50s glam frock.

New Home Smell

2011-07-09T09:08:00.004+01:00

Well that's it, I'm all moved in! My room is even lovelier than I remember; I guess that's seeing without it being full of everyone else's bits and pieces. It really feels like home now, I'll be sad to leave it monday but will be coming back soon for sure. My favourite purchase for the house was my *bargain* desk from IKEA, only £35 because the top half was £3 in the sale! Good, no? Here's some photos for you guys, 'cos I don't know about you but I love having a bit of a snoop, hehe c:

DOTW: Topshop Peach Floral Midi Dress

2011-07-07T08:04:00.002+01:00

£50, TOPSHOP

This dress reminds me of the 50's in the most easy, breezy fashion. I do adore the structured fifties style frocks but this looks so much more comfy for a summer's day, and for some reason (especially with repro type shops) a lot of kitsch-retro dresses are halterneck; A style I really don't get along well with. Plus, this is long enough that no leggings are required, always a plus for me! I'd wear this cutie with white and pink accessories and maybe tan wedge shoes.

Kawaii Desu

2011-07-05T22:45:00.004+01:00

Hello lovely readers! Things have been pretty hectic for me recently, I'm so super sorry for the smaller-than-usual amount of updates. To make up for it, here's me dolled up to look like some kind of anime character. Well, that was coincidental but I do look a bit cartoon-ish, right? As for the things I've been busy with, to start with I spent the weekend away with the Boyf and his lovely family, camping and canoeing. I've never set foot in a canoe in my whole life but it was pretty fun, actually; I was really surprised. I even did a little paddling as well. No photos were taken as boats that are pretty good at turning themselves over unexpectedly and cameras do not mix, unfortunately. Other than that, yesterday we grabbed a couple games after trading a few in at Gamestation, one of which was Batman: Arkham Asylum. It's seriously so much fun to play or watch (though seriously unimpressed with Harley's costume, what the actual eff..?) and then today was an epic IKEA trip to prepare for my moving into my new student house this coming friday.. eek! Told you it was a long list. Expect more frequent posting in forthcoming weeks.

dress: dorothy perkins / necklace: primark / shorts: new look / shoes: peacocks

Shoe Picnic: TUK Kitty Mary Janes

2011-07-05T08:42:00.000+01:00

I adore TUK. Years ago when I used to take trips to Bristol with my schoolfriends (I did say years ago!) I used to go to this amazing goth-alternative-punk shop called Shrinking Violet. Sadly, it seems to have disappeared over the last few years. But that shop was where I started my love affair with TUK shoes. On my 15th birthday I bought a ridiculous pair of skyscraper platform pirate heels that I could barely walk in but I loved those things. These Kitty shoes are slightly more on the sensible side, but equally cute (and I may have already ordered a pair for myself!)

Favourite Thing Thursday: Lush 'Dirty' Solid Perfume

2011-06-30T11:32:00.001+01:00

Lush is one of my all-time favourite shops; I love the way you can smell your way there from right down the street! It's just got this distinctive, delicious scent. Saying that, I never, ever buy anything there for myself. It's like some kind of sacred unwritten rule that Lush Stuff must be Given As A Gift, and therefore not purchased for myself. This cute little solid perfume was no exception, as the boyfriend purchased it for me. At £4.50 it's not badly priced and I can imagine it lasting absolutely ages. It has the most wonderful scent with spearmint, thyme and tarragon that makes it both very fresh and a little musky. The sales staff were so great in helping me pick which one to get, too, I would just love to be in that shop all day.

Nyan Cat

2011-06-29T21:36:00.004+01:00

Bonus internet points to you if you understand this post title. If you don't, then you really, really should. These shoes are my nyan cat shoes, except not involving rainbows, poptarts and being the wrong colours. So, yeah; just my cat shoes really. But they are super-cute though! Kawaii with a bit of added punky clunkiness. I paired them with a bright dress, rockabilly cardi and basic tights for a look that's a little different but everyday enough to be comfy. I ended up taking the tights off though, what was this sudden heat we have in the UK at the moment. I have a fan at full blast by my head as I'm typing this post up, phew. I'm hoping all this humidity will bring a storm our way, just to break the heat a little.

dress: primark via ebay / cardi: george via ebay / tights: gift / shoes: TUK kitty shoes c/o spartoo

DOTW: Peacocks 'By Design' Tropical Prom Dress

2011-06-28T08:52:00.002+01:00

'Peacocks by Design' Tropical Prom Dress £35

Online, I didn't think this dress was much to look at. However, when I last made a trip up to Bristol I caught sight of this in store and, well, my mind was changed! This dress feels and looks a lot more expensive than it is. The sizing is pretty true as well (yes, I did try it on and it broke my heart that I couldn't afford it!) and I adore the bold 'tiki' print. £35 might seem a lot for Peacocks but it's definitely a head above their usual stuff (even the Pearl Lowe collections) and certainly worth a look at in person. This is definitely an every-summer-evening type dress!

SOCS: Easy, Breezy White

2011-06-26T09:16:00.000+01:00

Even though the weather outside seems to have decided summer is now officially over (eek, I feel sorry for all you festival-goers), white can still be a great staple and when the sun does make an appearance it's a great colour to keep you cool. Not to mention it's so neutral you can combine it with literally any colour palette; go citrus sunny with yellows, oranges and whites, or go monochrome with white and black, or even nautical (or patriotic) chic with red, white and blue.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

50s Flowerpot

2011-06-24T17:18:00.001+01:00

I forgot how well photos come out when they're taken outside; and unfortunately 'overcast' seems to produce the best results with my camera when flash is used! It even started to drizzle when I was taking these pictures, but I carried on. British perseverance right there, for sure. I picked this cutie frock up in the sales too, and I can't believe how much I am in love with it. Pretty pattern, perfect length, and it fits amazingly well, something I was so surprised about. Dorothy Perkins and I normally don't get along well in terms of sizing, so I was just so delighted when the first thing I grabbed off the rail that I really wanted just fit so great. So happy with this outfit! Eeep.

dress: dorothy perkins / cardi: ebay / cat shoes: draven / umbrella: blue banana

Review: Morrison's 'Chique' Hair Removal Cream

2011-06-24T12:58:00.000+01:00

When I first picked up this product, I was a little hesitant; it's so much cheaper than anything else on the market (like veet) at £1.50, and also it says 'normal skin' in big letters across the logo - I've been known to have very sensitive skin (I have eczema and I'm allergic to loads of things too), but I was desperate for something longer-lasting than shaving so I nabbed a couple tubes. It's safe to say I was pleasantly surprised. It didn't even take a whole tube to cover both my legs, the cream didn't sting or itch or bring me out in a rash and if anything my legs feel more moisturised than before! The applicator made it really easy to smear on and overall it took me maybe 15 minutes, no mess involved. I'd definitely recommend this to anyone for sure, and if I did a star-rating system this would get full marks from me.

Advertise With Blargle Fargle

2011-06-23T14:43:00.002+01:00

I've just revamped my sponsors page, changing the rates and adding a couple new sizes, so if you were thinking of advertising with me then now would be a great time to start! I'm thinking of offering special deals to the first few who apply too (not including the special deals on the actual page) - so email me and find out... oh, and I'm always available for illustration work too!

Favourite Thing Thursday: Iron Fist 'Set Your Sails' Bag

2011-06-23T09:57:00.002+01:00

New feature alert! FTT, which stands for Favourite Thing Thursday. (Hopefully) each Thursday I'm going to feature one of my favourite things (hence the title) in my possession and have a look at it in closer detail than I would normally. My first item is partially courtesy of my wonderful boyfriend, in that he helped pay for it. For months I have been toting around my Blue Banana Unicorn Bag like an increasingly scraggy comfort blanket and it decided in the middle of Bristol it had had enough, and voiced this opinion by entirely disintegrating in the middle of a busy street. Earlier in the day I'd been admiring this (huuuuuge) bag and it seemed fate that we were right near that shop when the bagsplosion occurred. Naturally it came home with me! It's a great size, has a pretty pattern and super solid straps that make it too perfect for me.

Shoe Picnic: Dkode 'Violet' Heels

2011-06-22T21:07:00.000+01:00

A couple years ago I wouldn't have been seen dead in heels. However, in recent times that all seems to have changed my collection has shot up from nil to 5 pairs pretty much overnight; and I wouldn't change that for the world! Heels make me feel girly, cute, add something a little extra to an outfit... and these Violet shoes by Dkode are just the perfect mix of cute and casual with a low heel that looks ultra-comfy, too.

Keeping it Simple

2011-06-22T12:02:00.003+01:00

Some days even I just want a lovely, simple outfit. Infused with a bit of japanese kawaii and pattern of course, I couldn't imagine myself ever being comfortable with block colour! This dress is one of the successes I picked up in the Dorothy Perkins sale, as is the cardigan (which has the most darling little buttons, no??). I can never resist putting something on as soon as I've bought it; no self control here whatsoever. I'm the same with nail polish too, ASDA are doing another £1-a-bottle deal so obviously I grabbed, ahem, a couple. So my nails will probably be a different colour every day for the next week!

dress: dorothy perkins / cardi: dorothy perkins / necklace: primark / nails: blue lagoon, asda / cat flats: draven

DOTW: River Island Yellow Bandeau Dress

2011-06-22T09:11:00.004+01:00

River Island, £29.99

I don't know if it's something about the looks on the high street at the moment, but my usual dress-love and fashion sense has fallen completely flat. I only sort of love this dress, it's something I'd definitely nab if it were in the sales but I would pass it up otherwise. Though, saying that; if I had more money it would be different story! The back has quite tight shirring which means it would stay up all day, the skirt is plenty long enough to wear without leggings/jeans, and it has the cutest beading as well as such a cheerful colour. Oops, I think I'm changing my mind! Want alert. Unfortunately my purse has more moths than actual money....

We could be Sleeping in the Flowers

2011-06-20T17:19:00.001+01:00

What can I say, I was in a floral mood! The DMs add a little bit of edge to the outfit but this is about as girly as it gets (well, until I can afford lolita anyway..) and I love it. Today I'm off up to ASDA with my mum for a major food shop (for her, not me) - a two-trolley job methinks. My little fashion secret today is the super sweet cupcake socks I'm wearing under my docs, shhh~ ^_^

dress: primark / leggings: primark / docs: treds / cardi: new look (ebay) / necklace: ?

Mustard, Floral, Stripe

2011-06-19T11:39:00.006+01:00

Hello lovely followers! First off, I want to say how great the blogger meet-up was the other day; I had such a fun time, lunch in F&Bs was super yummy and even though I had to leave early I had a smile on my face the rest of the day. Other than that I've not really had an occasion to dress up, hence lack of outfits. To be honest today wasn't really a dress-up day either (though we did make a trip into Bristol) but I guess I just felt like it! I haven't worn this cardi in a while and it seriously used to be a wardrobe staple, but it seems to have fallen out of favour lately. Not entirely sure why.

dress: primark / cardi: h&m / jeans: ? / necklace: lady luck rules ok / cat shoes (not seen): draven

REVIEW: Lovely Jubbly Bird Cage Necklace

2011-06-18T21:35:00.003+01:00

Recently I was asked by the amazing Jess of Lovely Jubbly if I wanted to review one item from her brand-new jewellery line; and of course I jumped at the chance! Everything in her first collection is cute, cute, cute with a capital 'C'. I had a hard time choosing but in the end I plumped to the 'Bird Cage' necklace, and I'm so pleased with my choice, it could not be more perfect! And the first thing I want to say about this necklace is I received it so, so quickly; literally within a couple days of deciding which I'd like. Apart from that, the necklace itself is just great - the chain is a great length and a nice colour (and doesn't cause any issue even with my sensitive skin) and the little birdcage itself is just darling. I'd recommend Lovely Jubbly Jewellery to anyone, for sure ♥

Shoe Picnic: Dr Martens 'PAGE' Boots

2011-06-18T12:47:00.004+01:00

It's a well known fact I'm a huge DMs fan; always have, since a young age and I used to stomp about in flowery docs and up until today, when my very worn in red docs are a necessity in any cold, wet weather and a wardrobe staple to boot. To me they are just the most perfect shoes, and these Page Blue Doc Martens add that little extra touch a girliness to make them too perfect for girly-grunge and festival chic. £100-odd might seem pretty steep but trust me, these last and last and are sooo comfy once worn in.

Summer on the Beach

2011-06-13T11:47:00.003+01:00

Ok, this post title isn't strictly true; the beach is the last place I'd spend my summer! Living in a 'tourist town' means there's barely space to move on the beach and it's not that nice a beach anyway - the water is always brown! Not even to mention I practically set on fire every time I expose any of my pasty white flesh to the sun's evil rays. But I do love the beach print on this dress, which I nabbed on eBay for a less then large amount when I couldn't find my size in-store.

dress: primark via ebay £2 | cardi: new look | belt: from another dress | necklace: topshop £1

Cute Interiors: Bedding

2011-06-13T11:18:00.001+01:00

As most of you know (since I go on about it incessantly! so excited!) I'm getting the keys to my new house in only a few weeks. And me being me, rather than thinking of practical things (how will I pay rent? I need food etc etc) I'm thinking about what *pretty things* to fill my room with. And something that is needed urgently and must be pretty is my bedlinen - namely, bedding and cushions. Since it's the first time in a while I will have a double bed, I have no bedding, spare pillows. This is a little bit of a problem to say the least, and I've been drooling over these particular designs for a while, I have to admit;

SW Blogger Meetup

2011-06-12T22:54:00.003+01:00

In 4 days time I'm going to be attending the SW Blogger Meet-up (on June 16th), and a little nervous is an understatement! Other than the exception of people I knew previously in real life I've never met proper bloggers before, eek. It's a pretty small party, though, which is pretty good for my first ever Meet; R of hello scrapbook, Lyzi of being little, Bee of vivatramp, Harriet of Coffee is my drug, and Kate of kate louise. If I'm honest I hadn't heard of a fair few of these blogs but I'll be making up for reading time over the next few days so I'm not completely uneducated. I'm so excited to meet them all! A day of yummy food, shopping time and (hopefully) new friends ♥ If you're in the SW and interested but hadn't heard of this before just contact Bee and I'm sure something can be sorted.

90s Blurry Photographs

2011-06-11T14:51:00.002+01:00

For some reason my camera decided it wanted to focus on the shelves off to the left when taking these photos, so I've ended up with the kind of blurry effect you normally got from those little disposable cameras in the 90s; you can still make out what everything is but its a sort of soft focus! Thanks sooo much to everyone who has followed me on twitter so far, I'm starting to get the hang of it now.

dress: primark via ebay 2.99 | cardi: asda via ebay 0.99 | jeans: next | necklace: blue banana | nails: barry m blueberry i/c

Hair Dye: How I Do It

2011-06-10T10:52:00.006+01:00

Since last year, when I finally plucked up the courage to go from black to bright, I've been a whole crayon-box full of colours! From bleach ginger-blonde to blue, green, purple, turquoise... to be honest there aren't that many colours I haven't been. So, I thought I would do this little post to illustrate how I, personally, do my hair and hopefully those of you who were apprehensive about the idea of bleaching your darker locks will feel a little better about taking the plunge!

step one; bleaching

Currently, I bleach my hair about once a month to take care of my roots, followed by a dye-job over the top. However, the first time you go for a bright colour, if you want it to be as bright as possible you want a full-cover bleach. I used Directions 40 Vol as I was going for dyed (black) hair and it worked in about 3/4 of an hour to lift me to a ginger-blonde type of shade. If you have lighter hair, like I do naturally (and this is what I use for touch-ups) get the Directions 30 Vol as it's a little less harsh. And one of the most important things to note here; DO NOT dye your hair straight after if you can help it, give your scalp time to settle otherwise it could be painful for a week or so after.

step two; dying

When I first started dying my hair, I was using Stargazer as it was cheap and readily available in my local Blue Banana. However, in this case cheap is NOT cheerful if you plan to keep your hair bright - I found I was dying my hair three, four times a month to keep it bright and not that icky inbetween colour. I heard that Special Effects and Manic Panic were good, but before I got a chance to try I got my hands on some Elumen - and I swear, this stuff is amazing! It sticks and sticks in your hair and is practically permanent, and each time you put more on it stays in longer. Unfortunately it isn't readily available as it's meant to be salon exclusive or something of the sort so I nab mine on eBay at about £15 a bottle plus postage - though you do also need to buy 'Lock' as this makes the colours permanent so it's quite pricey if you aren't sure you want to stick with one colour for a while.

step three; maintenance

Coloured hair can be a hassle especially if you're a bit lazy on the upkeep, but if you can keep it up it looks amazing! I shampoo and condition my hair nearly everyday and currently I'm using Herbal Essences moisture rich shampoo and colour intense conditioner which keeps the colour nicely. I also blowdry my hair but prior to doing it I use tresemme heat protection spray; if I'm honest I don't care for my hair as well as I should but it seems to turn out okay! If you're thinking about dying, I'd say go for it.