tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48561640730192079042024-03-13T15:45:54.533-07:00Decisions Decisionssophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.comBlogger108125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-609872745793186262016-12-26T16:19:00.002-08:002016-12-26T16:19:23.209-08:00BOXING DAY BARGAINSAfter three Christmas dinners (...if you include this evenings Bubble & Squeak) washed down by several glasses of Proescco, Boxing Day Sales are not featuring heavily on my priority list. The idea of firstly getting off the sofa to then grapple with strangers in a bid to save £20 quid is not too appealing...<br />
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However - thanks to the wonder that is e-commerce those nightmares situations are no more. This is a magical land where the things that didn't make it under the tree can be brought to you in just a few clicks (..and a few weeks delivery but really it just feels like Christmas all over again when they arrive. Huzzah!)<br />
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Having spent the day casually perusing on my favourite websites and adding a lot to my wish lists I have compiled an extensive list of Best Boxing Day Finds. However I find that I cannot seem to stay awake for longer than a certain period of times this holiday season so in fear I may lose you mid way, I have whittled the list down to my top four items - enjoy.<br />
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<a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/sale-offers-4181277/sale-3267090/leopard-print-coat-5770256?bi=0&ps=20" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zrTRXxRcPNY/WGGt3h3gT2I/AAAAAAAABF8/h5FuCl63zhMK6XyYjQP8S2GvjjXA2C_ggCEw/s640/wishlist2.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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Channel your inner Pat Butcher and invest in this leopard print coat from Topshop for under £50. Does leopard ever go out of fashion? Was it ever in fashion? Who cares - it's sure to pack a punch to an outfit and well worth the investment.<br />
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<a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/sale-offers-4181277/sale-3267090/tall-ruffle-wrap-blouse-6114571?bi=40&ps=20" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1pEuKxYeCqY/WGGtkJOlk0I/AAAAAAAABF4/6VPwWT6edU0CyXXGfnPt-jPNnFB_k7XYwCLcB/s640/wishlist.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Now, I am a fan of this top for three reasons - the colour is gorgeous, the price is slashed and the ruffles hide a multitude of sins after the holidays. For £18 what's not to love?</div>
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<a href="http://www.whistles.com/women/sale/bags/sylvan-mini-chain-bucket-bag-22403.html?dwvar_sylvan-mini-chain-bucket-bag-22403_color=Navy#start=1" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TwxPNYL2enk/WGGuuAvd2cI/AAAAAAAABGI/tUaZsvoyPQgggCsbe7RlsadFDNzjF9e9QCLcB/s640/wishlist3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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A Whistle Bag has been on my "to buy" list for a while now (maybe I'll do a post on this one day....the list keeps expanding as my purse is depleting but that's nonetheless) and this one is gorgeous. I love a good bucket bag as I kart my life's belongings around with me most days. Snap this one up ASAP! </div>
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<a href="http://www.selfridges.com/GB/en/cat/miu-miu-smu-10n-havana-cat-eye-sunglasses_779-10017-8053672445046/?previewAttribute=Sand+havana" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8zFF97luOok/WGGv-yEAzzI/AAAAAAAABGY/gYTnSL51UNUO7wd6u-CYvJgHYjkyHEEjQCLcB/s400/wishlist6.jpeg" width="360" /></a></div>
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Believe it or not, summer will happen again. That's right, although I am suffering from a Vitamin D deficiency and am addicted to wearing my Zara scarf/blanket/coat/tent thing at all times, the sun will rise again. Therefore you need to protect your eyes in the chicest way possible, why not splurge on these Miu Miu glasses? </div>
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What have been your absolute bargains that you have stumbled across this Christmas? I have a little bit of money left over for Christmas and can be pretty speedy with that trigger finger.... </div>
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<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-82371196120010803782016-12-24T11:20:00.000-08:002016-12-24T11:20:14.243-08:001REBELNow, having sang the praises of Class Pass it seems only just that I should do a couple of reviews of my favourite classes to attend from the app! When I first started Class Pass the vast variety of classes left me confused and a little overwhelmed and I would have appreciated a helpful pointer in the right direction.<br />
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In fact - my first class on Class Pass was a TRX PT session in London Bridge that me and a new colleague booked on very last minute. We had only really know each other for a week and still working each other out (no pun intended) so decided to try this out together. However - unbeknownst to us we had booked ourselves into a very intimate personal training session which consisted of a silent gym and just us two and a PT. This then swiftly turned into an awkward session where we both tried out hardest not to moan/groan/sigh/pant/cry whilst making awkward chit chat. Hilarious in hindsight and but at the time - not ideal!<br />
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Anyway - I digress. One of my absolute favourite classes is 1Rebel (Broadgate). Now the Broadgate is important as their are two classes both very close to each other, but Broadgate has the best amenities and therefore is a must.<br />
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1Rebel has various classes, all of which I am yet to try. But my favourite is Reshape 45 - a HIT classes which consists of interval training on both a treadmill and weights/resistance.<br />
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The classes consists of typically spending 20 mins on the treadmill and 20 minutes on the weights (in intervals of around 5-9 mins long). There is pumping music, dimmed and flattering lights and shock absorbing treadmills which are a GOD SEND on my knees. (Yes I sound about 50 years old saying that but they have to last me a lifetime okay?)<br />
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The time on the treadmill is spent either sprinting on and off or running on an incline which increases every minute (or whenever you think you are about to keel over). The weight training consists of weighted squats, burpees, lunges and all those other delightful things we do so enjoy.<br />
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Overall I love the class - although about 20 minutes in I start questioning if I am going to make it - the people working out around me strike up my competition side of I keep going.<br />
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Another reason I am a fan of this class is the amenities - rose gold decor, GHD straighteners, expensive shampoo, free toner, chilled lavender scented towels for cooling down? Is it sad that those are sometimes the things that motivate me to go to the class?<br />
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Of course - it wouldn't be a review without a few cheeky cons to the class. My main concern is that some of the exercises are terrible for your knees (...I know I know) with high impact and mix that with bad posture and you are screwed. However I have found out what I can and can;t do and just end up doing my own things which the trainer is always fine about.<br />
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<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-62985808095606822742016-12-11T09:58:00.000-08:002016-12-23T13:04:09.322-08:00CLASSPASS REVIEW 2016<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">You know those adverts that pop up on your Facebook, Twitter and Instagram that are targeted to your personality and hobbies? The scary ones that link you to that overpriced handbag you were looking at three weeks ago and had almost forgotten about? The ones that will eventually bankrupt you? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Well - there was one link for me that was quite persistent - "ClassPass Limited-Time Trial - Choose Any 5 Classes for £19" - it was everywhere. After a quick bit of research it appeared this is an app/website that allows you to do 5 classes a month at some of London's best studios at any time in the day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Eventually I succumbed to the temptation and signed up for the £19/month trial and after 4 weeks of intense training that left me aching and slightly depressed about how unfit I truly was, I swiftly signed up to the £55/month deal and have never looked back! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The app offers thousands of classes across London varying from Bikram Yoga and Cross Fit to PT sessions for you and a couple of friends. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Having been signed up to Class Pass for over 6 months now I am a huge fan and wanted to review ClassPass and talk you through what I love about it and why you might enjoy it too. (As a true English Lit grad I have to argue both sides of everything with a conclusion at the end so be prepared for some cons as well....)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Pros;</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Motivation - it pushes me to <i>actually</i> workout. Paying £55/month means I am keen to get my monies worth. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Sociable - several of my colleagues and a couple of friends have ClassPass. This means that if I am looking to do a class on the evening I can invite a few friends to come alone and afterwards we can all share an overpriced protein smoothie and can all revel at how we are winning at life (for that evening anyway....)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Price - in London a class can cost circa £20 for an hour, meaning it is quite economical.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Variety - I have tried classes I would never get to try f I went to a gym <i>(Bikram Yoga is next on my list...)</i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Unlimited - if you pay £110/month you can go as much as you like, even up to several times a day...if you could manage it physically (although this treads the line between pro and con.) </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Locations - unlike a gym membership I am not restricted to one place, meaning if I am meeting a client in Canary Wharf late one day I can book onto a class straight after. <i>(Which is yet to happen but I like having the option, okay?)</i></span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Bookings - you can only book up to a week in advance - this works fine for myself but if you like to plan ahead it can be tricky. Additionally, you cannot book too close to the class start time which is annoying for me as I am a last minute kinda gal. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Cancelation - you have to cancel the class 12 hours before or face a £15 charge. I get why they do it but sometimes plans change and the be charged £15 when you are already paying for the app seems a little stingy. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Holidays - if you are going on holiday for a lengthy period of time you can either miss 2 weeks worth of classes or "freeze" your classes for that length of time for... (yep you guessed it) £20 extra. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Availability - the popular classes get booked up incredibly quickly. One of my favourite classes is Core Collective and I am sure there are psychic ClassPass goers that book up the class within the first minute of it being available because I never get it and get the same feeling I do when I lose out to an item on Ebay even though I was SURE I was the last bidder! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Posers - some of the trainers are incredibly annoying. Not all, but some are more interested in posting the class on their Snap-chat/Instagram rather than check if your technique is correct. Also - some trainers will push people too far and I have had a few injuries as a result. A simple "leave me alone" seems to do the trick though... However some are incredible and hugely motivating, you get used to which ones you like attending. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Overall I am a bit of a ClassPass addict and find myself paying extra for classes when I have ran out of the 5 classes after week 2. it is fun, different and much more interesting then working out in my gym where I live. Oh - it's also a great way to check out the current Sweaty Betty/LuLu Lemon season in action by everyone else who attends. That is probably an extra con actually - it will make replenish your work out wardrobe - arriving for my first class in old leggings and baggy charity 10k t-shirt was a bit of an eye-opener... </span></div>
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sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-62248902211677856872016-11-27T15:27:00.002-08:002016-12-04T13:26:42.384-08:00THE TABLEI promise...I do other things than brunch.<br />
However having visited my other favourite brunch place I figured why not continue with the theme and do a post on <i><a href="http://www.thetablecafe.com/" target="_blank">The Table</a></i> in Southwark.<br />
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Now, I only actually discovered this place when I was meeting a friend from brunch at The Breakfast Club in London Bridge. We met bang on 11am and as predicted there was a huge queue of hungry Londoners/tourists waiting to delve into their menu and most likely purchase a souvenir mug.<br />
Don't get me wrong...<i>that's exactly what I was going to do</i> - however having gone for a morning gym class, I was not in the mood to stand and wait for food for a good hour.<br />
My friend said she knew a place round the corner which was just as good so off we walked down to Southwark whilst I tried to hide my hanger. That was my first time at The Table and I can safely say I am now an addict.<br />
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This place has found the perfect balance of always been packed but managing to seat people instantly. </div>
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After finding a cosy table in the corner (albeit it nearly rubbing elbows with the couple next to us... #london) we quickly ordered a cuppa tea and a 'Going for Gold' (which used to be called Morning Glory...they must have received some feedback) which is a gorgeous pineapple, mango and lime with orange juice smoothie.</div>
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Now - with food - I am a creature of habit so got down to ordering avocado on toast with poached eggs which were done to perfection (aka the Breakfast Bruschetta). My boyfriend ordered a Full English as per, with sourdough bread, baked beans with ham and chorizo, fried eggs, garlic fried mushroom and la pièce de résistance.... pork and leek sausages. These sausages are easily the best sausages I have ever had (.... insert immature joke here.) In fact, they are so tasty that we asked where they source them from to make a bulk order later that day. To our dismay they are made by the owner of the restaurant in a farm way up North and are only sold at this restaurant. </div>
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Over all this restaurant is reasonably priced, has a great atmosphere and food to die for. It has won several awards and is well worth a visit.<br />
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If you are ever in Southwark or have a hankering for a sausage then give it a try! You won't regret it.<br />
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sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-54315607447849839972016-11-23T14:56:00.000-08:002016-12-04T13:27:17.658-08:00DISHOOM<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Okay okay I admit it - I have fully embraced the idea of "brunch" in London and when I say embrace I mean I have become obsessed with it...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Brunching on a weekend is my new hobby which is both questionable and pricey. When I first moved to London I never really used the word or saw the appeal but now my weekends are pretty much planned around the event. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">I go through phases of my favourite places "to brunch' (yes it is now a verb) and recently a usual frequent of mine is <u><a href="http://www.dishoom.com/" target="_blank">Dishoom</a></u> - a restaurant that replicates classic 1960s Bombay style, with a modern twist at an affordable price. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">The decor is stunning and of course instagrammable (<i>which is the main reason for brunch, right?</i>) and the menu is tempting and varied! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 21.12px;">Having looked over the enormous menu and ordered ourselves a Chai Tea Latte each (officially the best one I have ever had...) we decided to get a few things to share between us. I had tried the bacon and egg naan roll and remembered it was incredible so that was the first thing to make the cut. We then ordered Kerijiwal (just order it for the challenge of pronouncing it correctly...) and granola - cancels out that bad right? The Kerijowal was pretty much cheese on toast with a chilli twist and amazing! My boyfriend got a side of masala beans for good luck and we both had an americano each to fully wake us up!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">The only downside is you cannot book in advance in groups under 6 so in peak hours there is a queue. Breakfast runs until 11.45am however queues can sometimes be up to 40 minutes on a weekend and you have to sit down and order by 11.4am so make sure you get there with plenty of time to spare. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">The upside to this is they offer free chai tea to those waiting to keep them warm...not too shabby! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">But don't take my word for it - with three locations in London (Covent Garden, Kings Cross and Shoreditch) it's a must try!</span></div>
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sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-4458110785555611812016-06-13T12:38:00.002-07:002016-06-13T12:38:41.856-07:00FAVOURITE BLOGS<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px; text-align: justify;">It's official – I am<i> addicted </i>to</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px;"> blog/vlogs. Getting lost within youtube vlogs and endless scrolling through content has to be up there as one of my favourite pastimes (others include reading depressing literature, eating, watching funny vines, on-line window shopping and KUWTK - an </span><span style="line-height: 24.64px;">eclectic</span><span style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px;"> but satisfying mix.)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px;">Sharing is caring so I thought I would write a post on my top 5 best beauty reads. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px;">*warning, this is an enabler post and once you delve into these goodies you will lose several hours of your life. </span></span></div>
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<span style="transition: all 0.25s ease-in-out;"><strong style="font-style: italic; transition: all 0.25s ease-in-out initial;"><u><a href="http://www.viviannadoesmakeup.com/" target="_blank">VIVANNA DOES MAKEUP</a>.</u> </strong>Anna is queen of copy in my opinion and has an impressive way with words that I am envious of. She writes about beauty, fashion, lifestyle and most recently fitness! Her recent fitness obsession has not only lead me to actually <i>go</i> to the gym, but more importantly invest into my workout wardrobe! Having been hooked from post 1, I would advise to go read her thoughts immediately if not sooner.</span></div>
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<u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/LeFloofTV" target="_blank">SACCONEJOLYS</a>.</u> Firstly - my addiction to this amazing family proves that I am moving (no, correct that, RUNNING) into a different stage in my life. In the past I was obsessed with fashion, beauty and socialising. Now I am entering a novel phase of loving interior design, property renovations and family vlogs! The SacconeJolys are #squadgoals and are the perfect bit of fun escapism that we all need every once in a while. </div>
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<a href="http://www.lilypebbles.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/screen-2bshot-2b2015-01-09-2bat-2b16-55-03-png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.lilypebbles.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/screen-2bshot-2b2015-01-09-2bat-2b16-55-03-png.png" height="194" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><i><u><a href="http://www.lilypebbles.co.uk/" target="_blank">LILYPEBBLES</a>.</u></i></b> Lily is down to earth, honest and seems to know everything there is to know about London. Although I have followed Lily when I lived in Liverpool, France and Durham and she has probably been my biggest blogger enabler...now I have moved to London she has opened up a whole new world of activities/events/restaurants/bars/gigs that are amazing. </div>
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<span style="transition: all 0.25s ease-in-out;"><strong style="font-style: italic; transition: all 0.25s ease-in-out initial;"><a href="http://deliciouslyella.com/" target="_blank">DELICIOUSLY ELLA</a> </strong>Having just come back from a holiday which consisted of eating pasta, drinking wine and lying on the beach...I am in serious need of Ella's blog and book. Clean eating seems so much more doable when I scroll through her blog and am filled with inspiration to try new ingredients and stay away from processed snacks! I religiously check to see what updates she has put and attempt to cook them (the end results never looks as aesthetically pleasing as her attempt but I can live with that.)</span></div>
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sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-79440005930974294052016-03-28T14:33:00.002-07:002016-03-28T14:33:31.904-07:00PANCAKE PERFECTION<br />
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When it comes to breakfast I am a pancake gal - always have been and always will be. The sweeter the breakfast the better in my opinion. Up until recently I had a delightful routine of waking up on the weekends and walking across the road to an outdoor Creperie owned by a couple and ordering banana and Nutella crepes. <i>C'est magnifique, non? </i><br />
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However - this has been detrimental to both my bank balance and waistline.<br />
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My attempts to ween myself off the habit have been supported by;<br />
- discovering a delicious and fuss-free recipe<br />
- the couple closing shop for winter (granted the latter had a bigger part to play...)<br />
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Having successfully managed the act of making pancakes and not burning the flat down I decided to share the recipe with you guys.<br />
They are really easy to make, are healthier and taste great!<br />
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Ingredients (makes about 10)<br />
1 TSP Coconut Oil<br />
1 TBSP of Rice Flour<br />
2 Eggs<br />
2 Bananas (the riper the better...)<br />
1 blender<br />
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Heat up your dollop of coconut oil in a non-stick pan whilst you crack on with the batter. (I had to allow myself one pun...).<br />
Crack both eggs into the blender along with the two peeled bananas and the flour and whizz them altogether. Pour into a jug of some sort and the pour the mixture into the pan in small shapes. The thickness of the batter causes them to be quite fluffy and smaller in size. Keep the pan on a low setting and then flip them over when they are ready.<br />
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I always have mine with honey and blueberries, but enjoy these with your own toppings and of course - a lovely cuppa.<br />
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<i>Bonus tip - make these for your boyfriend/flatmate and they can do the washing up! Sorted.</i><br />
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<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-81966880623895725192015-12-01T15:43:00.000-08:002015-12-01T15:43:57.672-08:00MUSTERING UP THE ENERGY....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I must admit that for the past 3 months I have lost a lot (if not all) motivation to work out. Since moving to London, getting to grips with the new job, exploring, dining out (blah blah blah), I have not been able to muster up the energy to dust off the old trainers and go for a run. Heck, I have even been opting for the four minute bus ride ahead of the twenty minute walk. Pathetic, I know. </div>
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It is strange as my walk home is filled with London joggers running along the Thames in their colour co-ordinated outfits and cute matching water bottles - so surely I should be keen to join them? When the reality is as soon as I come into my flat and kick off my works shoes and simultaneously get in my PJs I think - no no, not tonight. </div>
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However - recently I have managed to get back into the swing of things and actually do some exercise and remind myself that I am in my mid-twenties and should probably not be so pathetically lazy... (but it's so easy...) and there have been a few tweaks in my lifestyle that have eased the pain of this transition.</div>
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<strong style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px; transition: all 0.25s ease-in-out;">Always be prepared.</strong><span style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px;"> When I wake up in the morning I can barely remember where I am, let alone find my gym kit. However when I wake up to the stern stare of my trainers I get the pang of guilt and fall out of bed into them. It makes it just a little easier... </span></div>
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<strong style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px; transition: all 0.25s ease-in-out initial;">Do something you enjoy.</strong><span style="font-family: "georgia" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px;"> The amount of times I have done classes that I have huffed, puffed and nearly cried through and at the end thought - </span></span><i style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px;">I am NEVER doing that again</i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px;">. I know I don't enjoy it, but I think - "maybe this time it will be different". Instead, find a class or a sport where you look forward to seeing progress and actually </span></span><i style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px;">doing it</i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px;">. For me it is team based sports or running. I am </span><span style="line-height: 24.64px;">competitive</span><span style="font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 24.64px;"> and love working as a team to win or beating my own personal record. Sad but true. </span></span></div>
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<strong style="transition: all 0.25s ease-in-out;">Socialise.</strong> Agreeing to do some form of exercise with a friend means there is extra pressure to actually get off your backside and do it. You don't want to let you friend down, right? And they would never want to let you down as well. Winner! I love doing the Kayla Itsines workouts with my flatmate in our gym and the fact she is there means we can have a giggle at how shakey our arms are. This week I nearly cried with laughter at the fact we had a 30 minute workout and she only had one song on her iPhone (<i>Jason Derulo</i>...) And I'll be damned she listened to it on repeat for the whole workout.. </div>
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<b>And most importantly... <i>HAVE FUN! </i></b></div>
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sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-7245593368839723672015-11-30T14:03:00.001-08:002015-11-30T14:03:14.880-08:00LONDON<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So it's official - I have moved. <i>I did it! </i>I have moved all the way from Durham to London and it all went rather smoothly if I do say so myself. Yes I may have left packing to the last minute, and yes I may have not been able to fit everything into the car but that's beside the point - I did it.<br />
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It has been a pretty busy year to be honest - I decided I wanted to move to The Big Smoke for the bright lights. Of course it was difficult to leave my family, we are close and I was living at home. But I haven't looked back - and there is a Space NK on pretty much every street here...<br />
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(My parents took it a little hard - so they did what any normal family does when their first born flies the nest...buy a puppy. Yes, I really am THAT replaceable.)<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">They got the cute factor bang on...</span></i></div>
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However I have fallen on my feet - location wise I am bang in the centre and housemate wise I am living with my mate (beautiful back of the head pictured above...) who I have known since I was 7.<br />
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My flat is a cosy modern three bed that has a gym and pool on the lower part of the block and even a <i>sauna</i> and although I will never get my head around the staggering difference in rent between the North East and London, I couldn't be happier.<br />
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For all those who are mulling over the idea of relocating and have been for quite some time - in the words of Shia LeBoeuf - <i>just do it</i>. My only advice is maybe pack the car a day before so you can work out if it actually all fits. <i>Or maybe just hire a van for just your beauty products!</i><br />
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sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-82445800548105995582014-09-14T10:59:00.001-07:002014-09-14T10:59:39.911-07:00...LONG TIME COMINGNow, let's just address the deep irony of my last blog post - working 9-5 and then, predictably, the blogging stopped. In actual fact I work 8 until 6.30pm but that's neither here nor there...<br />
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The past six months have been interesting to say the least, I have been in a delightfully stressful Catch 22 where I have had a disposable income meaning my beauty purchases have been somewhat excessive, and yet I have not had the time to share such indulgences. </div>
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However, for the first time in a long time I have felt inspired to share my musings once again. And let's face it, this blog provided justification of my ridiculous spending habits. <i>"It's all in the name of my blog"</i> I would tell myself as I wandered in Space NK on a weekend. </div>
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So, shall I just get you all caught up on the past six months of my life through a good old photo binge? </div>
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Work training // Reunion</div>
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Durham in full swing // Portsmouth</div>
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A lot of drinking was done // Ibiza</div>
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View from the office</div>
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Caitlin Moran // Greenwich </div>
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25 // <a href="http://www.kohlmama.com/" target="_blank">Kohl Mama's</a> beautiful baby</div>
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Training commences // Zurich</div>
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Sisterly love // The Jacksons</div>
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Sporadic, I realise. </div>
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What have you been up to?</div>
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sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-15490594353657342972014-02-07T16:16:00.001-08:002014-02-07T16:16:29.957-08:00WORKING 9-5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lF868MSwQOQ/UvVtRnTxC6I/AAAAAAAAA6c/WVSXLbRUjLs/s1600/Recently+Updated13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lF868MSwQOQ/UvVtRnTxC6I/AAAAAAAAA6c/WVSXLbRUjLs/s1600/Recently+Updated13.jpg" height="392" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.zara.com/uk/en/woman/blazers/short-blazer-with-belt-c565286p1741060.html" target="_blank">1</a> <a href="http://www.reiss.com/womens/coats-and-jackets/navara/navy/" target="_blank">2</a> <a href="http://www.zara.com/uk/en/woman/handbags/citybag-with-zips-c358019p1694254.html" target="_blank">3</a> 4 <a href="http://www.zara.com/uk/en/woman/shoes/combined-leather-high-heel-shoe-c358009p1669564.html" target="_blank">5</a> 6 <a href="http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/templates/P6.jhtml?itemId=cat36104&parentId=&masterId=&cmCat=&page=&view=all&filter1Type=&filter1Value=&filter2Type=&filter2Value=&filterOverride=&sort=&navid=viewall&viewClick=true" target="_blank">7</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>What's this? Professional gear?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">That's right, I got myself a grown-up job. Granted I still answer with "22" when asked how old I am.<i> (I am a few years above that...eeek)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Nevertheless I bagged myself a job and my first day is Monday. New beginnings go hand in hand with nerves, excitement, apprehension and of course a new wardrobe. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">After getting a few staple black structured dresses from New Look and tailored collarless blazers from Topshop I had the basics done. Now it's time to get a bit more fancy. Of course, I am not going to waltz into the office in Jeffery Campbells and a Vivienne Westwood sharp angled dress, but a bit of flare is good, right?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here are a few things I have my eye on but sadly will have to wait for payday to add them to my ever expanding wardrobe. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Do you have any professional wear tips? Good shops?</i></span></div>
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<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-8826272817748334572014-01-30T17:45:00.001-08:002014-01-30T17:45:49.166-08:00WEEKEND PLANNING<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://thedecorista.tumblr.com/post/19056871706" target="_blank">source</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Okay okay, true to form I made around 100 New Year's Resolutions for 2014.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Be more healthy, be more fit, be more organised, be more selfless, blog more, travel more....blah blah blah. New Year's Resolutions are great things because you aim to better yourself but often we set ourselves up for disappointment (<i>NY resolution #58 - learn to spell disappointment</i>).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, instead of striving to obtain impossible goals, I am going to just make little manageable changes to my life and of course...my blog.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vis à vis my 'be more organised' resolution, I am going to post every Friday with a few ideas on how to organise ones weekend a little more whilst simultaneously hitting a few of the classic 'resolutions'. </span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1. Read a chapter of a book.</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- Let's face it, as we mature we don't often read as much. It's sad because growing up often gives us a self-awareness that goes hand in hand with a good book. But be it not having enough time or not having enough energy we slack and eventually give into the temptation of watching a movie. Well, instead of saying "I will read a book a night and then some" and inevitably failing, why not aim to read just a chapter? Usually, (<i>if the book is a good'un</i>) you will want to read on. But you have to try it first, <i>can't judge it by its cover.</i></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. Clean our your laptop/phone</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- Snooze eh? At the moment I am going through the incredibly frustrating "not enough storage" process on my iPhone. Every time I go to take a picture of a friend I have to make them awkwardly stand there for a minute or two whilst I go through my album to delete a few cat photos. So, this Saturday I will spend a minimum of 2<i>0 minutes</i> clearing out all the needless photos of lattes and be done with it!</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3. Clean your makeup brushes</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- This mundane task bores the life out of me and I often forget to do it. But come Monday morning I am caking 3 weeks of old makeup onto my face and cursing myself for not doing it when I had the chance. Why not make it as fun as humanly possible? Go get your laptop, a glass of wine and put on your favourite show and get to work! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>What are your 'resolutions' and do you like this kind of post? </i></span></div>
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sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-91131337135530386322014-01-19T15:19:00.000-08:002014-01-19T15:28:15.065-08:00INTRODUCING....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Jumper - Topshop</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Coat - Zara</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Boots - Garage</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Meet my sister Amy. Isn't she gorgeous?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For the past few months I have been hankering on to Amy about starting up her own fashion blog as her style is <u>amazing</u>. After a few discussions we decided it best to collaborate on my blog as I already have a few followers and shucks, <i>it's nice to see it as a family business, right?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A little info on my little sister. Amy is 20, studying Creative Advertising at University, is a shopaholic and has a keen interest in high street fashion. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sadly, the glorious days of when we lived together are over as she spends most of her time in Leeds. So, every so often she is going to send me a few snaps of outfits she has worn and I will describe, divulge and digress through my blog posts. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Raise of hands here...who would like Amy's wardrobe?</i></span><br />
<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-7184404261623663422014-01-07T04:07:00.001-08:002014-01-07T04:09:23.302-08:00HYPED PRODUCT<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #686868; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UxShurQgihQ/UsiZF81EFEI/AAAAAAAAA4o/NAuhgndtXt0/s1600/lrpserozinc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UxShurQgihQ/UsiZF81EFEI/AAAAAAAAA4o/NAuhgndtXt0/s640/lrpserozinc.jpg" height="510" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Now, I am sure you have heard of this hyped product which incredibly tricky to get hold of! the La Roche Posay Serozinc is not sold in the UK (...yet) but it can be bought on eBay with just a few clicks, so don't fret!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Some of my favourite beauty bloggers had ranted about the toner so I had to try it. The first thing I noticed about this concocation (made up of </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">99.15% water, 0.75% Sodium Chloride and 0.10% Zinc Sulfate) </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">is it doesn't tingle but leaves your face feeling fresh and healthy. Although tingling is not always a good sign I often worry if something just feels like water on my face (unless it's my trusty Bioderma!) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The good new is my skin has cleared up and seemed to have calmed down, (I can brave the outside world without foundation.) However, the bad news is that I have had a complete skincare revamp and this means I cannot quite work out which product has saved my skin...I guess you will just have to wait for a few more posts from my new skincare regime to find out what was the saving grace. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Have you tried Serozinc?</span></div>
sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-28195903547268884812014-01-05T11:10:00.003-08:002014-01-05T16:47:14.467-08:00ALLURE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XBsO7_Ne5VI/Usmqh_ZNCaI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/Yw17O_zH9Pg/s1600/SAM_0384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XBsO7_Ne5VI/Usmqh_ZNCaI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/Yw17O_zH9Pg/s640/SAM_0384.JPG" height="528" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hello, my name is Sophie and I am a perfume-a-holic.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Unfortunately<i> (or maybe fortunately...)</i> I cannot afford to splash out on a new perfume every week which results in my lunch hour being spent in Boots, spritzing and spraying to find my scent of the month. Of course, I return to work smelling 'like a tarts handbag' <i>(a classic Dad saying there...) </i>but hey...that's the life of a beauty blogger.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #3d3d3d;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">So imagine my surprise when a certain someone bought me a little random gift on </span></span><i style="color: #3d3d3d; line-height: 26px;">his </i><span style="color: #3d3d3d;"><span style="line-height: 26px;">lunch hour. Chanel perfume? Well, you can never go wrong with a bit of Chanel. After all, many of their scents have become classics. <i>(I am sure you have all seen the Marilyn Monroe advert pledging her love for Chanel No. 5? Pretty much sums it up)</i> As perfumes go they are craved and adored by many.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Allure certainly oozes the elegance of Chanel through its strong notes of vanilla but retains a feminine flirtatious appeal with floral topnotes. I</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">t's a warm scent and modern scent, backed by a fine mist of soft florals and is a perfect scent for the transition from winter to spring. The overall scent is c</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">ertainly unforgettable; partly due to the staying power and somewhat to do with the distinct '</span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">je ne sais quoi' </i><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">that comes free with every Chanel product.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Are you a confessed perfume-a-holic?</i></span></div>
sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-84834199650874959812014-01-03T02:17:00.003-08:002014-01-03T02:17:31.333-08:00WIWT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U_Ra2vwAxZE/UsVn0_9bekI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/j6XCC0qfjow/s1600/IMG_1792.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U_Ra2vwAxZE/UsVn0_9bekI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/j6XCC0qfjow/s640/IMG_1792.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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WIWT....</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is just a quick snap as as the moment the weather does not permit for 'professional' blog photos. Ignore my messy room in the background, I was in such a rush that I didn't have time to perfect the background aesthetic <i>(bad blogger...I know)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">However, I quite liked my casual outfit I threw together before rushing out the door and t</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">his jacket is also perfect for hiding that extra layer of warmth everyone puts on over the winter. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A lowdown of my winter getup </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- <a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?searchTerm=denim+jacket&storeId=12556&productId=11167445&urlRequestType=Base&categoryId=&langId=-1&productIdentifier=product&catalogId=33057" target="_blank">Borg lined denim jacket</a> <i>(an amazing Christmas present) £58</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- <a href="http://www.topman.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?searchTerm=tartan+scarf&storeId=12555&productId=12667302&urlRequestType=Base&categoryId=&langId=-1&productIdentifier=product&catalogId=33056" target="_blank">Tartan scarf </a>Topman <i>£12</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">- Longchamp bag <i>£48</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?refinements=Colour%7b1%7d~%5bblack%5d&searchTerm=leigh+jeans&storeId=12556&productId=11393028&urlRequestType=Base&categoryId=&langId=-1&productIdentifier=product&catalogId=33057" target="_blank">Topshop leigh jeans</a> <i>£38</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Topshop mighty boots <i>£45 (pretty sure they are in the Topshop sale now...)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>(Hairbrush and single slipper optional...)</i></span></div>
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<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-81061295807303359512014-01-01T17:49:00.000-08:002014-01-02T05:19:30.881-08:00A GLIMPSE OF MY 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n07KgVcWd4w/UsTA0WX1RCI/AAAAAAAAA4I/5o_VQBcDAXc/s1600/20131127-014343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n07KgVcWd4w/UsTA0WX1RCI/AAAAAAAAA4I/5o_VQBcDAXc/s640/20131127-014343.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Some of my favourite moments/photos of 2013</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1) London with my sister to see The Book of Mormon <i>(best theatre production out there...)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2) Well needed reunion of my Erasmus buddies who live all over the UK.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3) 24th Birthday (<i>work like to pretend I am ancient...</i>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4) Being whisked off to the Hilton in Leeds for a romantic weekend.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">5) Traditional Christmas Eve 'front door photo' <i>(kindly taken by the taxi driver.)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">6) Graduating in French and English (BA Hons - 2:1) from University of Liverpool.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">7) Holiday and jumping from a boat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">8) Selfie with this sis' 'on top of a mountain' <i>(10 points for quote recognition)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">9) Date night with a duck shirt. </span></div>
<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-7914235171271036722013-12-30T17:20:00.002-08:002014-01-01T10:20:21.566-08:00HAPPY NEW YEAR!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SEArC0HEO4s/UsIbzTz2RKI/AAAAAAAAA30/QC8L3sEY9OI/s1600/happy+nye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SEArC0HEO4s/UsIbzTz2RKI/AAAAAAAAA30/QC8L3sEY9OI/s640/happy+nye.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bring on 2014!</span></div>
<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-4012241764189364862013-12-30T17:19:00.000-08:002013-12-31T02:26:21.923-08:00NYE <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6nTBUQhblZQ/UsIICCjf97I/AAAAAAAAA3k/XWTRfDA1WqY/s1600/Pictures4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6nTBUQhblZQ/UsIICCjf97I/AAAAAAAAA3k/XWTRfDA1WqY/s640/Pictures4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, here is an outfit I picked out for NYE. I am wearing a similar version of this <a href="http://www.topshop.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=33057&storeId=12556&productId=12586880&langId=-1" target="_blank">PJ Wrap Jumpsuit </a> but in black (<i>the post-christmas slimming colour...</i>) teamed with a c<a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/bags-accessories-1702216/bags-purses-462/croc-clutch-bag-2496884?bi=1&ps=200" target="_blank">roc clutch bag</a> (<i>both from Topshop...as per</i>).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Accesories wise you cannot go wrong with a bold lip and classy <a href="http://www.zara.com/uk/en/woman/shoes/leather-high-heel-court-shoe-with-a-metal-ankle-strap-c542054p1585049.html" target="_blank">Zara Heels </a>. Having got the <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Yves-Saint-Laurent-Rouge-Volupte-Lipstick_844149/" target="_blank">YSL Saint Laurent Rouge Volupte </a>from a kind Santa in a deep berry colour I can make an educated guess at how amazing the deep red would look. However, my purse strings won't stretch far enough to expand my YSL makeup collection, so I will be cracking out the trusty Rimmel Kate Moss 107. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What are you NYE staples apart from good company and good bubbly?</span></div>
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<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-67382279883883758202013-12-29T16:58:00.000-08:002013-12-30T04:16:57.978-08:00DREAM TEAM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>This right here is the dream team.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Chanel Coco Mademoiselle is such a beautiful and well-known scent, it's glamorous, flirty and gentle. After spending months spritzing a little (...<i>a lot</i>) on myself whenever I popped into Boots I decided to put it on my Christmas list. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It's staying power isn't brilliant which does put me off a re-purchase, but the packaging and the scent is too good not to splurge.<i> Also, this is where the dream team comes into play....</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now, the moisture spray was a loving present and imagine my surprise when I had no idea that these existed? The spray costs £27 and basically acts a perfume that moisturises you at the same time. <i>(A double rainbow so it would seem.)</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Spray both together and they staying power is doubled. Parfait!</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, if you cannot afford the £54.50 Eau de Toilette then why not opt for the spray? </span></div>
<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-7406045793334603322013-12-29T13:00:00.006-08:002013-12-29T16:54:20.712-08:00BAIES <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Well, wasn't Santa good to me?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">After years (<i>that's right...years!</i>) of pining over the beautiful Diptyque candles, a certain someone took the hint and bought me this absolute beauty.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Diptyque candles are a little self-indulgent - this one cost £40 (<i>the idea of burning your money away springs to mind.</i>) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">They may not be for everyone but if you are into candles then they are the brand for you. The candle itself burns evenly - I discovered this after leaving a mini christmas one unattended and it burned so perfectly and evenly that when I left it for 20 hours it had completely finished itself - </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As for this scent, it's perfect for the Spring we so eagerly await! It's top notes are floral (<i>which I am usually not a huge fan of</i>) but there is a strong underlying scent of blackcurrant which comes out when it burns. Basically - it's beautiful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Another plus is that the packaging is perfect for holding jewellery/cotton buds/beauty essentials and <i>looking aesthetically gorgeous on ones vanity</i>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I definitely wouldn't mind a few more to add to the collection in the future<i> (wink wink nudge nudge....)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Would you ever spend that much on a candle? Is it worth it?</span></div>
<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-60539739232374167182013-12-10T15:27:00.002-08:002013-12-11T15:44:56.411-08:00... TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS <br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />
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Me and my Mum are going to be in this years Book of World Records, we managed to pick, buy and take home a tree in under 10 minutes. That's right, for only £29 as well. It's beautiful and the decorating only took half an hour as well. I know people like to spend the whole day but it just means more time for enjoying the view with a glass of wine! This year we opted for no tinsel and I think it looks lovely without, of course Santa is at the bottom with his sack keeping guard incase the cat decides that the baubles are her own toys to play with.</div>
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My new favourite thing? Salted Caramel Latte<br />
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I have never been one for Christmassy drinks, I always think they are too sickly. However Costa's Salted Caramel Lattes are gorgeous. Always one for a skinny version (calorie counter...) I opt for it with skimmed milk without cream on top. (But I do cheekily ask for the salted caramel drizzled on...)<br />
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Are you feeling all Christmassy now December is in full swing?sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-46668338140721163772013-12-08T09:20:00.001-08:002013-12-08T09:20:26.099-08:00CHRISTMAS WISHLIST<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Of course, being a beauty blogger means I succumb (weekly if not daily) to the new hyped up product and I am pretty sure a high percentage of these have been the new 'it' product at some stage;</div>
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Diptyque will always be on any wish list I have; birthday, christmas, weekend, bad day... you get the picture. The only thing about Diptyque is that the smells are so unique that it really is each to their own. I have tried and tested so many scents in Space NK because if I am spending a lot of money on a candle I want to know the scent is for me. This Ambre one was beautiful but not to everyones taste. </div>
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Can you tell I want voluminous hair the Christmas? It would be cheaper to buy my a wig to be honest, so Oribe spray and Bumble and Bumble surf duo are top of the wish list. </div>
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This Chanel Coco Noir scent is absolutely gorgeous and definitely a night time perfume. Every time I am near a Chanel counter I spritz this on. It is a perfect date night scent and I am tempted to drive to my local boots to spray it on before going out for the evening. Why don't I just buy it, I hear you ask? Well, at £75 for 50ml I just cannot justify it. I blitz through perfumes like they are going out of fashion (or they just miraculously evaporate). But Christmas is the perfect excuse but if Santa wants to get it for me then I am not complaining. </div>
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What is on your wish list this Christmas?</div>
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<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-64040148280775957192013-11-25T16:20:00.000-08:002013-11-25T16:20:22.406-08:00M.I.A<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">King's Cross // Wine and burgers</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Breakfast in bed // 3 for 2</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Cinema // Forbidden Corner</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">North East // Train necessities </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Lumiere // Liquid lunch</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What have you been up to recently?</span>sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4856164073019207904.post-4201729472806383842013-11-20T17:02:00.003-08:002013-11-20T17:04:23.621-08:00DAILY WANT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.zara.com/uk/en/woman/handbags/citybag-with-zips-c269200p1492505.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Zara City Bag - £59.99</span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The amount of bloggers I have seen carrying this bag around is unreal and I can see why. It has a separate padded section especially for laptops and the aesthetic is beautiful.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Although black is chic and goes with everything...variety is the spice of life so I would opt for this grey toned version. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But until I have bought everyones Christmas presents bags are low on my 'to buy' lists. Window shopping can still be fun though, right?</span></div>
<br />sophie-annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13836527977472175119noreply@blogger.com2