Ins and Outs: Round Two

Or The Flu Edition



Since I've been sick I thought I'd do another Ins and Outs post. It's not like I have anything better to be doing, trapped here on my couch. Mostly I've just been lying here with Howl wishing I weren't sick.

Ins:

• Howl, he's still absolutely adorable. I love his little puppy face off!


• Planning what I'm going to wear for my upcoming birthday. It's over a month away, but seriously it's my favorite day of the year.


• Kitchen Nightmares on Netflix. I don't know why I wasn't watching this show before, but I'm obsessed right now.


• Catching up on Supernatural, since I have the flu and can't do anything, I have a lot of time for catching up on T.V.


• Fall scents out in stores, I love the fall and winter candles and air fresheners and stock up to try and have enough to carry me through the year to next fall.


• Bangs. A little while ago I decided to get rid of my bangs, and I've regretted it ever since.


• Pajamas. Being sick means I've spent a lot of time in my comfy clothing, and has left me craving some new pajamas.

 

Outs:

• The Flu. Seriously it's 2013, why haven't we cured this yet?


• The Cost of high end cosmetics. I have sensitive skin and have to be careful about what I use. I am absolutely hating how much I have to pay for them though.


• Howl chewing my moccasins. Seriously, does anyone know where you can get Minnetonka Moccasins repaired? I left them out one night and he chewed the insides. Now if I leave my closet open he goes and gets them.


• Painting my nails, what? I can't be bothered with them right now. I dunno why but I'm just not into it.


• Shopping. Oh I've still got things I want to buy, but no money for it. Thanks to things like student loans, and being sick, I'm broke. So right after my birthday it's a spending ban til Christmas. Only thing I'll be buying extra are presents.

Thankfully it looks like I have more ins than outs, so I guess I should cheer up. What are your Ins and Outs?

Book Review: Getting Rooted In New Zealand

For this weeks book review we have Getting Rooted in New Zealand by Jamie Baywood. Since I'm ill I will not be doing an outfit post with this book. I do however have a get the look board.

Start off with a pretty dress, I love this one from French Connection (It's on major sale right now!), then a sweet bow belt, I, of course, chose this one from Kate Spade. Then you need so black patent flats, and you just can't go wrong with these from Zara. Then for accessories I chose this Apple of My Eye necklace from Kate Spade, it's so dainty and perfect. Top it all off with this great Trench from H&M and this red hat from Anthropologie. And you have the perfect look to match the cover of this book.

On to the review!

Jamie Baywood is a California Native that after a string of bad breakups, decides to uproot her life and head for New Zealand. This story is about adjusting, finding your place, and falling in love the right way.

About the actual story though, it was strange for me to read because it's written in diary format, and is a memoir of her time in New Zealand. Normally neither of those are a style of book that I enjoy. Then adding in that some of the things that happened to her while she was in New Zealand were absolutely horrific. She did have some absolutely lovely things happen, but you have to slog your way through the terrible things to get to them. Honestly when I got to the part about her ex's, I put the book down and walked away. But then I decided to pick it back up the next day and see what happened.

I'll just say, that like life, love and shopping, this book gets better as you go through it. She's very frank and seems to tell things exactly as they happened with no embellishment. It's this deadpan delivery that truly makes some of the things that happen to her seem all the more horrific. Really that's all the only word that I can come up with for those things. I can't even imagine how I would have handled them had I been in her place.

However, when she meets the love of her life, you instantly know it's him. Not because she blatantly says so immediately, but because he's the brightest spot in her life at that time.

Final Verdict: I highly recommend this book if your thinking of moving to New Zealand. It was definitely an eye opener into working conditions for expats there.

Bonus: Look how adorable the author is!



I've linked up with Get Your Pretty On, so go check it out

*This book was provided for review by the Author. This does not effect my opinion or review of the book at all. I was not compensated for this review.

New Zealand Look by fashionandhappythings featuring a kate spade belt

Must Have Fall Staple The Trench

Or One Fabulous Trench Coat 3 Ways

I was recently contacted by Tess from House Of Fraser, and she wanted to do a guest post about an important must have for Fall, the Trench Coat. Since I firmly agree that a Trench Coat is an absolute must have, I immediately agreed. Check out her post below and let us know what you think in the comments.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sadly it is time to accept that summer is fading away. I’ve chucked my sun cream, packed away mu sunglasses, and am fighting the urge to hibernate in a barrel of cotton wool. What I’ve noticed is that my key summer buys are so quickly left wilting somewhere at the bottom of my closet that I may’ve well not bought them!

But not this year! I’m determined to keep my distance from my tent-sized jumpers and jogging pants and keep my key summer dresses  in use. My thought, is that with the right statement coat, you can stay warm without sacrificing style. I’ve set out to create three ways the one-coat wonder can work for a casual day, in the office and on a date or cocktail night with the special ones. When it comes to picking a good coat, I’d always advise a neutral classic style. I opted for the elegant Mint Velvet Trench from House of Fraser. Here’s how it went:

 

When it comes to work, the easiest blunder is the safe trap. Just because you’re expected to be smart, that doesn’t mean dull! Take these gorgeous Ted Baker floral trousers. This print’s been seen on the likes of MTV’s Holland Roden and is the perfect combination of summer brights and sophistication. With the coat on and a pair of courts, this look will still have a feminine edge, and lovely shape. I’ve also added a  Michael Kors watch for a work-ready touch.

For a relaxed weekend, the trench works just as well. I’ve teamed it with a peplum blouse to add some femininity, and a metallic satchel for added excitement. With some comfy pumps and skinny jeans, this outfit is stylish without sacrificing comfort.

Upgrading to more glamour in autumn can seem difficult. I see far too many women shivering and uncomfortable, as they resist a jacket that they fear will dampen their look. However with a classic trench coat, if anything it complements the outfit. A tie at the waist makes such a beautiful silhouette, and teamed with this playsuit, you’re carrying on the season’s monochrome trend perfectly. I’ve added Kurt Geiger’s ever-popular Isabella sandals to the look, as this trend has been huge. Nonetheless, when colder weather sets in, a pair of suede courts or Chelsea boots could look equally swish without the chill.

 

I am determined this year, to keep my wardrobe exciting and on-trend. With the right structured coat, you won’t be limited by low temperatures and can freely revisit your summer buys!

 

Tell Fashion & Happy Things what you will be teaming together to keep hold of your summer buys for longer?

House of Fraser – Guest Post for Amanda

Trench Three Ways

Sadly it is time to accept that summer is fading away. I’ve chucked my sun cream, packed away mu sunglasses, and am fighting the urge to hibernate in a barrel of cotton wool. What I’ve noticed is that my key summer buys are so quickly left wilting somewhere at the bottom of my closet that I may’ve well not bought them!

But not this year! I’m determined to keep my distance from my tent-sized jumpers and jogging pants and keep my key summer dresses  in use. My thought, is that with the right statement coat, you can stay warm without sacrificing style. I’ve set out to create three ways the one-coat wonder can work for a casual day, in the office and on a date or cocktail night with the special ones.

When it comes to picking a good coat, I’d always advise a neutral classic style. I opted for the elegant Mint Velvet Trench from House of Fraser. Here’s how it went:

When it comes to work, the easiest blunder is the safe trap. Just because you’re expected to be smart, that doesn’t mean dull! Take these gorgeous Ted Baker floral trousers. This print’s

been seen on the likes of MTV’s Holland Roden and is the perfect combination of summer

brights and sophistication. With the coat on and a pair of courts, this look will still have a

feminine edge, and lovely shape. I’ve also added a  Michael Kors watch for a work-ready

touch.

For a relaxed weekend, the trench works just as well. I’ve teamed it with a peplum blouse to add some

for added excitement. With some this  outfit is stylish without sacrificing

comfort.



femininity, and a metallic satchel

comfy pumps and skinny jeans,

Upgrading to more glamour in autumn can seem

difficult. I see far too many women shivering and

uncomfortable, as they resist a jacket that they

fear will dampen their look. However with a

classic trench coat, if anything it complements the

outfit. A tie at the waist makes such a beautiful

silhouette, and teamed with this playsuit, you’re

carrying on the season’s monochrome trend

perfectly. I’ve added Kurt Geiger’s ever-popular

Isabella sandals to the look, as this trend has

been huge. Nonetheless, when colder weather

sets in, a pair of suede courts or Chelsea boots

could look equally swish without the chill.

I am determined this year, to keep my wardrobe

exciting and on-trend. With the right structured

coat, you won’t be limited by low temperatures

and can freely revisit your summer buys!

Tell Fashion & Happy Things what you will be teaming together to keep hold of your

summer buys for longer?

Stylish Sundays: Sick Day Essentials

Or I've got the Flu

So today's post is going to be different. I have the flu, and was absolutely not up to getting all dressed up to take photos.So rather than skip it, I've decided to show you guys what at typical sick day looks like for me. I know I did a post on how to have a good sick day and I thought I'd show you it in practice, because I'm going to be sick for at least a couple weeks.



On my face: photoshop. I was too sick for makeup so my husband kindly edited out my skin issues as he always does. Someday I'll be brave enough to post a barefaced unedited phot, but not today.
My hair: that twist thing I do with my bangs when I decide I hate them.
What I'm wearing: Gilly Hicks Hoodie. Not pictured: H&M Striped Tank, Victoria's Secret Star Print Pajama Pants that were a gift from Miss Cannady last Christmas.

Before I get into my essentials I'd like to talk about how weird it is to have the flu in August. I keep forgetting that its not cold outside, and my brain keeps thinking I smell Fall. And that brain trick keeps making me want coffee and sweaters and boots even more. I also really want to watch It's The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown and all my Halloween Movies.

Now on to my Essentials, these are the things that I must have in reach when I'm sick.



I have a book, currently I'm reading Cemetery Girl, I'm only a few pages in because I keep falling asleep which has more to do with my cough medicine and nothing to do with the book, but I like it so far. Full review next week. Cough Drops, I like the sugar free Halls ones, they work for me. Find ones that work for you and stock up, I currently have 3 bags in different flavors. I have the T.V. Remote, my iPhone and iPad. Entertainment that you don't have to focus on is super important. I get so bored laying on the couch, currently I'm killing it in the My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic, if I'm feeling up to it later, I might decide to replay Costume Quest on Xbox. Water, I have mine in this bright tumbler with fun colored straw that I got from my local Hallmark store, because right now my throat hurts so bad I don't want to drink anything. It's a lot easier to force myself to drink if the cup is cute. And finally Puffs Plus Lotion Tissues, because a nose in need, deserves Puffs indeed. Am I the only one that loves those Puffs commercials they air in the fall and winter? I only use the Plus Lotion, because when I'm sick I have to blow my nose a lot and I quickly get that raw soreness around my nose. Not Pictured, but also super helpful is my Liz Earle Superbalm. I adore this stuff when I'm sick and I will be reordering it when I run out. Also not pictured insane amounts of Hand Sanitizer. I love the bath and body works ones and keep a couple in the drawer in my side table.

My final essential:



Howl. A cuddly puppy that keeps bringing me his Speider (watch Megamind) to make me feel better. When I had a fever yesterday he spent most of the day sleeping with me on the couch. Today there's been lots of cuddles and puppy kisses. Also lots of stolen tissues. He sure loves to tear them up on the carpet.

Since I have the flu and will be sick for a while, what are your must haves when your sick? Also any App recommendations?

Emi-Jay Hairtie Review

Or Accept No Substitutes



I know I've mentioned Emi-Jay hair ties a lot. I kinda can't help it, I'm absolutely obsessed with them. I've tried the ones from Sephora, Twistbands and even ones that my dollar store was selling that looked similar.

None of them have come close. None. I don't know why these are better, they just are. I'm certain the other companies making them use similar, if not the exact same materials, but Emi-Jay just seems to do it better. They're about the same price as Twistbands and the Sephora ones too.

Of course it could be the Hippie in me, that's mostly hidden by all my consumerism. Because Emi-Jay give money to Operations Smile, Be The Match, Step Up Women's Network, and Project Knapsack. Any one of these charities would have been an admirable choice, but these girls chose to donate 20% of their procedes to split between them all.

Oh yeah, I said girls. Emi-Jay was started by two 8th graders in the Jay part of Emi-Jay, Julianne's Kitchen. The Emi part of course stands for Emily. They got tired of no damage hair ties that still damaged their hair, and decided there was a better solution, so they found it. And they managed to make a successful business out of it, one that has Jennifer Aniston, Sarah Jessica Parker, Katie Holmes and Kim Kardashian as loyal clientele.

Another thing that I adore is the variety that they come in, printed, beaded and now bows. Bonus they totally have headbands. I haven't tried them yet, but I am absolutely desperate to. I adore that they're made with the same size band as the hair ties. Twistband uses a thinner band for their headbands, I have some that I got from Birchbox and I hate them. The thinner twistband actually causes dents.



Everytime I get my hair done, my hairdresser always comments on the fact that I don't have split ends or breakage, despite the fact that I constantly am throwing my hair up in a messy bun. I don't use heat on my hair often so that will cover the split ends, but I completely attribute the lack of breakage to the fact that I only use Emi-Jay hair ties.

Book Haul

Or The Scary Season Is Coming

I don't know about you, but what I'm reading usually changes with the seasons. Spring and Summer I like to read light, everyone is falling in love, type books. But come fall and winter, I love mysteries, and dark, creepy or scary books. I'm  not sure if it's just me getting ready for my favorite holiday, but come the colder seasons I am all about the creepy stuff.

Not all out horror, don't get me wrong, but you won't catch me watching the final destination movies (save the second one that Ryan made me go see, and then didn't show up for you ass!), but when it comes to books I like to read things that I could never ever watch on T.V.

Which brings me to this book haul.



Why yes that is Howl on the edge of the picture. Photobombing is an art and he has got it down, just go look at my last haul. From Left to Right they are, Dream With Little Angels by Michael Hiebert, Cemetery Girl by David Bell and Sharp Objects By Gillian Flynn. I'm probably most excited for Sharp Objects, because it was recommended by ChapterStackss or Katie on Youtube. She is probably my favorite youtuber. I followed her from her beauty channel to her booktube channel and every book that she's recommended that I've read, I've adored. She's actually who inspired me to start doing book reviews on my blog, so go check her out!

As you can see I bought these books from Target, and I haven't read any of them yet. I'm really excited to get reading them, but I actually have another book to read first. It's called Getting Rooted in New Zealand by Jamie Baywood and after I've read it I get to do a mini interview with the Author that I'm very excited about. I kinda consider it my last light and girlie book of the summer. What books are you looking foreward to reading this fall?

Book Review: The Bling Ring

Or We All Want Our 15 Minutes



I bought this book because I'm insanely impatient and I missed Sofia Coppola's The Bling Ring in theaters and now I have to wait for September 17th for it to come out on DVD.

I don't know what I was expecting with this book, but I didn't get it. It was written by Nancy Jo Sales who authored the article The Suspects Wore Louboutin's, which is what inspired Sofia Coppola to make her movie. This is an expanded version of that article. The full story so to speak. I didn't love this book, but I didn't hate it either. She mostly discusses the things that Nick Prugo told her about the robberies and what happened and what was said, she also talks to a police officer who was close to the case, and she talks about how these kids were fame obsessed and how it affected their decisions. I remember when this case happened it was only a few years ago and the kids were about my age at the time.  The actors they robbed weren't much older than me at the time either. I remember seeing footage of Orlando Bloom after the robbery and just feeling heartbroken for him and how violated he must have felt. If you've ever had anything stolen from you, from your house then you know that feeling.

She mentions in one part that we're all famous now thanks to the internet. Which got me thinking, do I want to be famous? Honestly the answer is maybe. I always wanted to be an actress growing up, but I never pursued it entirely because of the fame factor. I never could decide if I could deal with the Paparazzi following me, so I never even tried.

For the outfit I wore, I decided a bit of a reminder was needed before I recommend this book.



The Shirt says "Live Simply So Others May Simply Live"

I wore a Blazer from Nordstrom, H&M pants and a Tee From Sevenly. My Bag is from Urban Expressions and is 100% vegan.



My Chelsea Boots are from Asos



My Necklace is from Jewelmint and is the Rose Gold Lovers Locket, my ring is from the now defunct ColourMe.com and my nail Polish is Lancome's Flirty Red.



My hair is just in a messy bun and my Makeup is: Lancome Teint Visionnaire in 100N, Nars Concealer in Vanilla, Makeup Forever Setting Powder, Nars Deep Throat Blush, Lancome Metallic Taupe Eyeshadow, Nyx Skinny Marker Eye Liner, YSL Babydoll Mascara, Vapour Elixer Lipgloss in Enigma.



Final Verdict? I recommend this book if you're either obsessed with the case, or if you just can't wait for the movie to hit DVD. I learned way more about this case than I normally would have wanted too, but I'm completely okay with that. I wouldn't say it's a must read, but it was an interesting one

Here are two more pictures of Howl being cute while I'm holding him for the above shot:



I've linked up to I Feel Pretty's Weekly Link Up

How To Style A Dress For Autumn

Or One Dress 3 Ways

I know all to well how easy it is to find a great dress and either never wear it, or only wear it once, simply because you don't know what to do with it. I'm a firm believer in the versatility of clothing, I have a How Shoes Change The Attitude Of An Outfit and a How To Wear Converse post. When you buy versatile pieces then you can invest more in your wardrobe and buy trendier accessories.

Take for example this Oasis dress.(http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Oasis+Bird+jacquard+dress/188275591,default,pd.html)

I absolutely love it, and I want it to come home and live with me. But before it can I have a rule. If I can't plan 3 completely different outfits with a piece, then it stays at the store.  So here are the 3 looks I've come up with for this dress.

Casual Errands:
Jacket:http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Mint+Velvet+Storm+parka/188466744,default,pd.html
scarf: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Mint+Velvet+Jamie+print+scarf/188682706,default,pd.html
Boots: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Miss+KG+Bella+ankle+boots/188693480,default,pd.html
Bangle: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Dyrberg+Kern+Shine+shiny+gold+grey+bracelet/186183594,default,pd.html
Tights: www.houseoffraser.co.uk/White+Stuff+Patty+plain+tights/178645582,default,pd.html

I'd wear it with a utility style jacket, a soft scarf and ankle boots. Then all I'd have to do is throw my hair up in a ponytail, and add a bangle and I have the perfect outfit for running around doing errands. If it's really chilly I might add in some warm tights.

Brunch with my best friends:
Coat: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Linea+Pvl+military+coat/182697868,default,pd.html
Belt: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Ted+Baker+Bow+Skinny+Belt/176450541,default,pd.html
Ballet Pumps: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Carvela+Larry+ballerina+shoes/183362254,default,pd.html
Necklace: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Azendi+18Ct+Rose+Vermeil+Heart+Locket/180784075,default,pd.html
Earrings: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Thomas+Sabo+Special+addition+arabesque+disc+earrings/184601279,default,pd.html

I really dressing up a bit and having brunch or tea with my friends. I'd wear this lovely coat, and I'd switch out the belt for this one, wear these adorable Ballet pumps. Then i'd wear this dainty necklace and these earrings and wear my hair up in a high bun.

Evening out:
Belt: www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Ted+Baker+Loupie+black+bow+skinny+belt/167509553,default,pd.html
Tights: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Jonathan+Aston+Sweet+roses+tights/168495854,default,pd.html
Heels: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Hobbs+Gloria+court/187977849,default,pd.html
Necklace: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Bill+Skinner+Gold+Plated+Acorn+Oak+Collar/178120710,default,pd.html
Trench Coat:http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Mint+Velvet+Black+trench+coat/188466689,default,pd.html

Once again I'd pair this with a different belt, some tights, great heels and a statement necklace. Throw on a trench coat and leave my hair down and I'm absolutely ready for a lovely evening out.

I am completely obsessed with all three of these outfits. The best part is if you switch out any one piece of any of the outfits and you have an entirely different outfit, and possibly a whole new vibe. How would you style this dress? Lemme know in the comments below!

Top 9 Must Have Autumn Shoes

Or the best shoes for back to class, crunching in the leaves, and hanging out in cafe's and bookstores.

I was thinking about Autumn shoes the other day, of course, because I love shoes and Autumn. Combine the two and I'm absolutely over the moon. It got me thinking about what shoes I thought every girl should have in her closet when the weather starts to turn chilly, the coffee gets hot, and the leaves get crunchy. Did I mention I love Autumn?

I've sort of separated it out into sections. We'll start with Dressy shoes.

First up are of course Ballet pumps. I am not a heels kind of girl. Aside from a bad knee, I'm just super klutzy. So Ballet pumps are an absolute staple in my shoe wardrobe. Personally I love these from Carvela. (http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Carvela+Hack+ballerina+shoes/186234492,default,pd.html)

Available in nude or black, the studs add just the perfect amount of edginess to the feminine shape of the shoe, and make them absolutely amazing perfect for Autumn.

I also think every girl should have a pair of fold up flats that she can toss in her handbag. I adore these from Dune. (http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Dune+Macie+fold+up+sequin+ballerina+shoes/188239985,default,pd.html)

I can't tell you how many times I've stupidly decided to break in a new pair of shoes on a day that I've had to be running around. They're also great for if you're running to and from work and want a cute pair of flats to change into on the way. And since these are spangly they're perfect for changing up your outfit if you suddenly find you need to go out to dinner straight after work.
Court Shoes or Heels if you will are definitely a must have.  I'm an absolutely idiot on heels and even I have a few pairs in my closet. They're just sort of necessary. I adore these from Kurt Geiger.(http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Kurt+Geiger+Anja+Court+Shoes/177101446,default,pd.html)

They look dangerous to walk in, but if I'm going to wear heels I'm really going to go for it. However these from Carvella look like they'd be a lot easier to walk in. (http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Carvela+Kairo+court+shoes/188743285,default,pd.html)

I know the thing people get most excited about come fall is bringing out the boots. I absolutely adore boots and there are 3 styles of boots every girl should own.

At the top of everyone's list are Riding Boots. Appropriated from the boots people wear for Horseback riding, they're adorable for fall. I adore these from L.K. Bennett which come in both black and brown. (http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/L.K.+Bennett+Carole+knee+boots/181692124,default,pd.html)

Or if you like mixing black and brown, like I do, I think these from Head Over Heels are adorable.
(http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Head+Over+Heels+Tamzen+riding+boots/188771929,default,pd.html)

Pair them with a Jumper and Skinnies and your absolutely set for an afternoon in the library. Well really you can wear them anywhere, I just love libraries.

I really adore Ankle boots. Whether you call them ankle boots, booties, or Chelsea boots, they are a definite fall must have. Personally I love these from Sam Edelman. (http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Sam+Edelman+Petty+ankle+boots/188411317,default,pd.html)

They work wonderfully with ankle cropped pants, or skater skirts. Once again you can go for an all out edgy look, a princessy girly look, or you can completely dress them down with just jeans and a tee shirt.

Finally in the boots category, rain boots are an absolute must have.  I truly believe that Hunters are the best rainboots out there and they are worth absolutely every penny. I personally have these and these. (http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Hunter+Original+Wellington+Boots/122417753,default,pd.html , http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Hunter+Original+gloss+short+boots/161500569,default,pd.html )

I originally got the Original Hunter boots for everyday wear, and I bought the Original Short Gloss boots for wear in the snow, but you can go for whatever style you feel suits you best. I absolutely love both pairs and I don't just wear them when it rains. I also wear them whenever I have to do any yard work, walking in the woods or field or just playing in the leaves.

Then there are the shoes that fit in my everyday running around category

Brogues, which have been in for the last few years. Depending on how you look at it, these were either swiped from the boys, or are a throwback to the saddle shoes you had to wear in school, either way they're one of my favorite shoe styles. I love these from Office. (http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Office+Poppet+brogue+shoes/188315587,default,pd.html)

They're available in black, brown or tan, but really I recommend the black. They're perfect for anytime you feel the need to look scholarly, or if you just want to dress up like Taylor Swift that day. I've very nearly worn the Brogues I have out, so these will be at the top of my list when it comes time to replace them.

Also hanging out in the menswear camp are Loafers. I adore Loafers and have wanted these from Sam Edelman ever since I layed eyes on them. (http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Sam+Edelman+Aster+loafer+shoes/187753538,default,pd.html)

Loafers or smoking slippers, swiped from men's opera wear are the absolute perfect shoe to add a bit of cool to any outfit as your running out the door. There aren't many things you can't wear with Loafers, everything from Leather pants and a Edgy tee to an absolute Princess dress just works.

Pair them with a Jumper and Skinnies and your absolutely set for an afternoon in the library. Well really you can wear them anywhere, I just love libraries.

Finally on my list I have shoes for absolute lazy days. As the weather gets colder, sometimes you just want to be cozy and comfortable. For this type of shoe I would choose Toms. http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Toms+Classic+Slip+on+Loafer+Shoes/162821146,default,pd.html

If you'd rather they could be converse instead. If so I love these floral print ones, just something easy that will still look great with a pair of leggings and an oversized jumper for those days where you really wish you didn't even have to leave your house. Just because you want to be lazy doesn't mean you shouldn't be stylish while your at it. Bonus if you buy the Toms you donate a pair of shoes to someone who needs them. This is why they appealed to me.

Those are my absolute must have shoes for Autumn, do you think I missed any, or is there a style you really love? Lemme know in the Comments!

Hair Tutorial: Twisted

Or You Asked For It.

I had a couple requests for a Tutorial on how I did my hair in this post, so here it is!



First you'll need: A Hair Tie (I'm using one from Emi-Jay), 2 bobby pins, and not pictured Hair Spray. Personally I use Aveda's Air Control:


Starting with your hair down:


Seperate out a section at the front which will have your bangs if you have any:


 

 

Then brush up into a ponytail:


And tie it off with your hair tie:


then start twisting up your bangs:


You'll be placing the bobby pins in two places right before you get to the end of your bangs:


And then again at the end of the length of hair you've twisted:


And this is how it should look:


This really is super simple, after it's all done just spray with a light hold hairspray and smooth any flyaways you may have. You might have to do the twist a few times to get it just how you want it, but it's so quick and easy that after awhile you'll have it perfect on the first (or second) try.

My top is from H&M and if you're wondering what's on my face, I'm wearing: Nars Sheer Glow in Siberia, Nars Concealer in Vanilla, Benetint, Lancome Taupe Eyeshadow, Makeup Forever Setting Powder (just where I used the concealer) and Nyx Soft Matte Lip Cream in Amsterdam

If you try out this hairstyle tweet me a picture, I'd love to see it!

 

Stylish Sundays: Everything Has Changed

Or Taylor Swift Inspired

I recently watched some videos that Taylor Swift made in collaboration with Keds talking about her style and I remembered how much fun I had last fall with all my stripes and oxfords, so I decided that I wanted to wear exactly that.



I'm wearing a red and cream striped sweater from Francesca's and  Black Shorts from H&M.

My shoes are Not Rated Oxfords that I ordered from Journey's last year.



My Necklace is a beaded 3 strand necklace that I got from H&M ages ago. I once wore it as a bracelet here.



My makeup was Nars Sheer Glow in Siberia, Nars Deep Throat Blush, Nars Concealer in Vanilla, Bite VIB Rouge lip color, and YSL Babydoll Mascara



I wasn't having the greatest Hair day so I left my bangs down and pulled it back into a ponytail with an Emi-Jay Hair Tie.



Howl loved being at the park, especially the part where he got to eat the grass.





 

Can I just say I've never been a big fan of Keds, until I realized they'd come out with all these cute collaborations. Now I really really want a pair from both the Taylor Swift collab and the Kate Spade Collab. So much that I'm seriously thinking about getting myself a pair instead of Toms from my birthday. Maybe? What do you think, Toms or Keds?

My Birthday Is Coming

Or Buy Me Something!

My Birthday is less than 2 months away, and it is seriously my favorite time of the year. Since it's my favorite, I'm already planning what I want to do. We never really do anything to big for my birthday, it's always dinner out with just the family and presents. I'm gonna be completely honest, presents are my favorite part. Since I've been sick all week, I've been laying on the couch making these on Polyvore. Most of them I haven't published, but I liked these two enough to share.

I've already got my outfit picked out, and of course I don't actually have any of this stuff. It's inspired by Emma Stone, because she's my latest style obsession.

It's the absolute perfect casual easy going outfit. Classic, Chic and Comfortable, and it's all things I should have in my wardrobe and don't. Which since it's all classic pieces it gives me the perfect excuse to buy them. First up is this Gap Boyfriend Oxford Shirt, I have been meaning to buy a white button down forever, but keep putting it off. Then are these jeans from H&M, these look absolutely perfect and comfortable. I think the best part is that they're midrise and dark wash with no rips or tears in them. Then there's Tom's. I've never really been a big fan of how the shoes look, but they've started to grow on me, bonus they're one of those buy and do good things. I actually plan on buying myself a pair for my birthday. Then the accessories for the outfit, I'm kinda in love with all of them.  There are these Ampersand Earrings from Kate Spade, this Monogram S necklace from Nadri, these amazing Drifter Sunnies from Madewell and my absolute favorite this Twelfth St. By Cynthia Vincent Shopper. I adore this bag. I'm not really one for handbags, but this one is gorgeous.

Continuing with the theme of My Birthday Is Coming Soon(ish), I've also put together a wishlist collage.

Birthday wishlist by fashionandhappythings featuring lilly pulitzer

It's not a very long list this year, but I adore each and everyone of these items on my list. You'll notice that the accessories that were in my outfit post above are all on this wishlist. I'll start with the Jewelry, There's the Say Yes Ampersand Earrings from Kate Spade, the Monogram S necklace from Nadri and also this Monogram bracelet from Alex and Ani. I'd also really like a nice pair of Sunglasses and while I'd love a pair from Warby Parker, I think they're a bit expensive for this year, so these Drifter Suglasses from Madewell in tortoiseshell  are a great alternative. Then I really love this iPhone Case from Lilly Pulitzer, and this brush set from Real Techniques. A Barnes and Noble Gift Card is always welcome. I am of course a shoe addict and since I've worn out my Floral H&M shoes, I was thinking it's time to graduate to Keds. I really love these Kate Spade for Keds, but then again these Paw Print Taylor Swift for Keds have had a special place in my heart ever since we brought Howl home. We have a tie for my most wanted item this year, and that's between a Keurig and the Twelfth St. Shopper by Cynthia Vincent. I adore both of them and would be absolutely ecstatic with either one.

Birthday wishlist by fashionandhappythings featuring handcrafted earrings

 

Birthday Outfit by fashionandhappythings featuring twelfth street by cynthia vincent

Birthday wishlist

Birthday wishlist by fashionandhappythings featuring an initial pendant

Liebster Award...OMG!

Or Squeee!

[caption id="attachment_1222" align="alignnone" width="364"] When he heard I was nominated Howl said"Where's My Leibster Award? I'm adorable!"[/caption]

I've seen this going around the blogging community and I'm so happy to be a part of this tag now! If you don't know what it is, it's where other bloggers choose bloggers with less than 200 followers, that they think should have more followers. I was nominated by Kerry from Dosage of Beauty and Fashion

The Rules are that you have to tell 11 things about yourself, answer 11 questions from the person who nominated you, and then create 11 questions for the 11 people that you nominate to answer. I'm so excited so lets get started.

11 facts about me

1. I met my husband right after I turned 18 and we've been together ever since.
2. I am an obsessive reader, when I pick up a book once I'm into it I won't put it down, I read all 19 of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum Series in 2 weeks.
3. Given the choice between clothes and makeup, I will choose to buy clothing 99% of the time, the other 1% means I've run out of something.
4. I have severe Allergies and Asthma, I spend a lot of time sick. It's actually why I stopped making Youtube videos and started blogging.
5. When I met my husband my hair was purple and orange, it's also been green, pink, blue, black, red and all purple.
6. I used to shop at Hot Topic, with my dad, who only wore sweatpants, military style parka and steel toed boots. The worst/best bit of that story? The people that worked there overheard my dad designing a dress for me to wear to senior prom, and started taking notes and asking him for advice. I never went to senior prom though. (Heartbreaking because that dress would have been amazing). They would follow him around every time we went in looking for ideas.
7. My dream house is made of stone and has a window seat, porch swing, library and a fenced in or walled garden.
8. If I could be any person from a T.V. Show I would be Rory, but during her time at Yale, because I love her style then and I never did go to college .
9. I have a really diverse taste in music I range from Kitty to Emily Autumn to Taylor Swift, I also really love Placebo and am so excited for their new Album Loud Like Love.
10. I'm obsessed with skincare (bet you guessed that already.)
11. My favorite day of the year is my birthday, I start making wishlists and plans for it 2 or 3 months in advance, and I pretty much already know what I want to wear (post on that tomorrow)

 

Kerry's questions:

1. Do you prefer to shower mornings or nights

A. Nights, I love the feeling of climbing into fresh pj's after a shower, plus I almost never blowdry my hair.

2.What is your make-up cleansing/removing routine?

A. I use some sort of cleansing milk or balm to take it off, currently I'm using Ren's Hydra Calm Cleansing Milk, but some past favorites have been Caudalie's Gentle Cleansing Milk and Kiehl's Washable Cleansing Milk, which is what I'll be using next, I miss it.

3. How would you describe your sense of style?

A. Taylor Swift meets Taylor Momsen. You don't see a lot of my edgier looks here on the blog, but they do happen. However I've been copying Emma Stone more and more for Fashion and Hair inspiration.

4. If every season you buy unlimited shoes, bags or jewellery/accessories, but only two of the others, which would it be and why?

A. Shoes, I love them and always have another pair that I want. I actually only have 2 bags as it is, and one more that I kinda have my eye on. Jewelry I really only receive as gifts and buy less than 2 pieces on my own as it is. But Shoes, I just love them and completely obsess over them.

5. What is your favourite make up product at the moment?

A. YSL Babydoll Mascara, or really any YSL Mascara, they don't irritate my eyes and they make my lashes look amazing.

6. Do you use fake lashes?

A. Nope, I'm horrible with them, and I don't really need them, I have long lashes, and they're pretty full on their own.

7. What was your first memory of using make up?
A. I was 4 years old and my mother was headed to work. She let me use her blush brush after she did, and then kissed me so I could wear her lipstick too. It's probably one of my favorite memories.

8. How light/dramatic is your everyday makeup?

A. It's pretty simple, I don't even use eyeliner on a daily basis.

9. Do you prefer fashion or make up?

A. Fashion, I'm just better at it. I'm terrible at blending shadows.

10. What is a make up item you'd like to try?

A. The Chanel Bronze Universal or whatever it's meant to be called. Or the Bourgeois version. I suck at bronzer, but I think a cream version might work better for me.

11. Do you have a high-ended item (fashion or make-up) that you really want to own, if so, what is it?

The Suart Weitzman 5050 boots in Napa Leather. They're gorgeous, and Emma Stone wears them in the upcoming Amazing Spiderman 2, and I adore her, and her as Gwen Stacy, and those boots are just stunning.

Now it's time for my 11 questions:

1. If you could be someone from a movie or show who would you be and why?

2. Your all time favorite book?

3. You have absolutely no budget, but can only shop at one store and it cannot be a department store, where do you go?

4. If you could have any other blogger/youtuber popular or unknown give you a makeover who would you choose?

5. Why did you get into blogging?

6. If you could have high end designer Fashion or Makeup just gifted to you forever, but the other one had to be highstreet or drugstore forever, which would you choose to be high end?

7. It's girls night in, what movie is on and what do your pajamas look like?

8. Your favorite skincare item?

9. It's pouring rain, what is your go to outfit and hairstyle?

10. What's your style? If you could change it, what style have you always admired?

11. You have to move to another country, where do you go? Why there?

And now it's time for the people I nominate, I'm so excited about this!

1. Une Splendid Vie


2. FashionLoft8


3. after the 40 bar finish


4. Secretive Style


5. Beauties Unlocked


6. FASHinNY


7. TheAJMinute


8. LoveOlia


9. Lark and Lace


10. Cake & Couture


11. EatSayLove

I tried to double check and make sure they didn't have secret GFC followers that numbered over 200, but I mostly went by their bloglovin followers.

Many Thanks again to Kerry for nominating me, I'm so excited about it.

Book Review: Never Let Me Go

Or What Are Your Ethical Opinions?



This book falls into the Dystopian Genre, which like everyone else I'm a huge fan of. It's also a Romance as many of the Dystopian books are. It's told from the point of view of a Carer who is soon to become a Doner, the Donor's that she cares for and how they grew up, and got where they are now. It's set in the 90's. I found this book a bit hard to follow and I often didn't quite understand what was going on due to the terms used and the frankness with which they're presented until much later in the book. Even when I didn't understand what was happening, I was very attached to the characters. I do think that this book is meant to be confusing because even the characters don't fully understand what is happening and why. Right from the beginning, even though I didn't know quite what was going on because of the strange terms used, I felt like something ominous was looming over the whole story. When she's reminiscing about growing up, you start to understand that there is something really sinister going on and that none of these are normal children. When you find out what their future holds and that they never really question their fate, except in passing what ifs, it's really quite surprising. Or at least it was for me anyway. I get very attached to characters, so it was a bit hard for me to swallow what these children are being raised to do. By the time you find out though, they aren't children anymore. It's hinted at, throughout the childhood parts, but it's not til they're adults that you find out for certain what's going on.

I really recommend that you read this book. It makes you think. To decide what your ethics and morals are.

Honestly I bought this book because FleurDeForce showed it in one of her Packing Videos and I thought it looked interesting. I really didn't think I was going to love this book as much as I did, or that I was going to reread it as many times as I have. I'm pretty sure that I only paid about $5 for it on Amazon with Prime shipping. If I'd have known how much I was going to adore this book I probably would have bought it hard cover.

This outfit kinda really has nothing to do with this book, but at the same time I feel like it's something that main character might have worn when she was my age.  I actually wore this outfit when I met Sarahbelle93 on Sunday. (I'll stop talking about that soon, I promise, but right now I'm still crazy excited about it!)

I'm wearing a Madewell Cardigan, H&M Tank with another Tank from The Limited underneath it, and Gap Jeggings with Ankle Zips.



My Shoes are from Sam Edelman and they're the Calypso Flats with Gold Studs



And my necklace is my Gold Pen Necklace that Miss Cannady gave me for my birthday last year. I told you guys I was obsessed. It's just perfect.



For my hair I just wore it down and my Makeup is my current usual: Lancome Tient Vissionaire in 100, Nars Concealer in Vanilla, Nars Blush in Deep Throat, Benefit Sunbeam, Benefit Bad Gal Lash and YSL #4 Succulent Pomegranate.



Also of course we can't have an outfit post without Howl being adorable. It just comes naturally to him.



He's starting to get really fluffy again, which I'm excited about because when we got him groomed we went much shorter than we intended too, and I was kinda heartbroken about it.