Beyond Imagination: 2018

I can't believe that it is June already - half the year is already gone! May was a month of sunshine, birthday celebrations (not mine) and trying to relax in the half-term. Also, I can't forget to mention that I managed to not miss one single post, let's hope I can continue this streak into June! Yet, looking forward, June will be a hectic month for me with the daunting thought of exams, so keeping on top of blogging will be a tricky one! Now let's focus on my goals for this month.

01. This is the last month before Summer begins, and so, of course, I have to have the classic goal of working out. I typically can only last a 10-minute workout (bit lame), but I want to survive a full body blast without dying. I also, want to keep up with a schedule of working out, rather than doing it when 'I feel like it'. Now, I'm not expecting to achieve the perfect beach body, but I want to be able to see a difference and feel overall more positive!

02. Personal statement. The two dreaded words that I have been putting off for months. By the beginning of Summer, I am expected to hand in a complete personal statement. I recently went to take a look at the Nottingham Trent Design Degree Shows (I highly recommend checking this out), which was so interesting to take a peek at all of their portfolio work, and see what I could potentially be producing. This has started to help me narrow down which course I want to do (I am toying with 'Textile Design' and 'Fashion Communication and Promotion')

03. Carrying on from May, I am wanting to continue saving my money, hopefully for a big shopping spree right before Summer holidays! I've got to the point (I think everyone has this) where I look at my wardrobe and nothing excites me - I just end up wearing the same outfit. So, this year I want to save enough money to buy new clothes that not only are staples but also ones which are out of my comfort zone (hint: I really want a straw bag).

04. Lastly, my blogging goal for this month. I want to reach 300 followers on Bloglovin by the start of Summer, which is a wishful goal, but I know that if I put in enough time to promote my blog, I can make it happen! If you're already not an active follower, help me out now by clicking here!

What are your exciting new goals for the month of June?

June 04, 2018 3 comments

After posting my first 'episode' of my favourite podcasts, I discovered so many more (thanks to your recommendations), and so my obsession continues to grow. I have almost become dependant on a good podcast to listen to whilst doing anything - even currently I'm listening to one!

Related post: My Favourite Podcasts Part 1

Couples Therapy with Candice and Casey

This podcast is new to me and new as a whole! Everyone has probably heard of Casey Neistat who shares his life on YouTube, and so it's no surprise that he has started his very own podcast alongside his wife, Candice. This podcast delves into their personal life, in which they discuss candidly the ups and downs of their marriage (me being nosey, I definitely wanted to hear this), friendship, parenting and their lives in the YouTube spotlight. It is also interesting to hear the view and voice of Candice, which we wouldn't normally hear, and the more personal view of the pair. This is definitely a must listen, even if you're not a Casey Neistat fans.

Walking The Dog

This podcast isn't my usual go-to genre and theme, yet after listening to just one episode I am hooked. Conducted by Emily Dean from The Times, she interviews various comedic friends, whilst well walking the dog! This makes the podcast seem so natural and flows effortlessly, just as though your walking beside. They talk about the weird, the wonderful, the funny and the extraordinary. If you are put off by the aspect of it being a comedy, don't be fooled, as to be honest I enjoy this podcast just as much as any other (I think it's the interview which does it!).

Happy Place

Again, another new discovery of mine which I was so excited to give it a listen as it bloody Ferne Cotton!! This podcast follows her successful bestseller 'HAPPY', and this is equally as successful by delving into unlocking the inner happiness. She chats to inspiring individuals who have either made a change in their own life or who help people every day to find a different way of looking at life; revealing what happiness means to them. The conversations are so raw and real, which takes this topic to an extra level on meaningfulness. By far, my favourite episode has been with Stephen Fry (it's an emotional one), with Alexandra Shulman coming a close second!

This concludes my second round up of podcasts, to keep you going through this half-term! There is a podcast for everyone, plus they are all free and are a great source of entertainment for an evening chill or a getting ready supplement. The choice is yours!

What are your current favourite podcasts?

May 28, 2018 12 comments

May 25, 2018 29 comments

As you all probably know, I have recently been getting into a skincare routine that targets and combats my acne prone and oily skin. This is when I discovered the new 'Pure Clay' range from L'oréal which offers three masks with three different benefits (detoxifying, mattifying and exfoliating). Out of all three, I decided to choose the Pure Clay Purity Mask.

This mask combines all three mineral pure clays (Kaolin, Montmorillonite and Ghassoul), alongside the hero ingredient eucalyptus to help draw out dirt, unclog the pores and reduce any excess, unwanted shine. It has a definite creamy texture which applies effortlessly onto the skin, giving an instant cooling effect. Once applied, it only takes around 10 minutes for it to fully dry, and you can definitely feel it soaking up the excess oil, to the point where you can't even move your face! For removing the clay mask, it does need some hard work. I recommend using a muslin cloth whilst gently removing the mask in circular motions, which also helps to exfoliate my skin at the same time.

Just to note: this product is quite heavily scented, yet I personally love it as I find it quite soothing and calming. But if you are sensitive to strong fragrances then maybe this product is not for you.

In regards to the size, you get 50ml of product, which equates to roughly 10 applications. Yet, depending on how much you use and where you use it, I think that you can definitely get more for your money (even though this product is already cheap!) For reference, I have used this mask around 4 times and have barely dipped into the jar!

After using this mask multiple times, I have definitely seen an overall difference in my skin texture and complexion. Straight after use, my skin feels super soft, which gives it the perfect base for any makeup application. The next day my skin is glowing and radiant, and on top of that, it smells amazing! So, whenever I see a breakout forming, I instantly gravitate towards this product and can be guaranteed it will reduce the overall size of the spot and redness.
I use this mask around 2-3 times a week, depending on if my skin needs the boost and a pick me up.

As this product is targeted for an equivalent of an at-home facial, there is no wonder that this product has so many benefits. If you are willing to buy all three masks (detoxifying & brightening charcoal mask and exfoliating and smoothing red algae mask), you can create your own multitasking facial routine - the concept is all about using different masks for different parts of your face and treating the skin where it needs it. For me, my skin only needs the one!

My overall thoughts:

I would definitely repurchase this product, and for only £7.99, it is definitely worth the money! This product has been a life saver for my skin, reducing spots and creating an even and smooth complexion. Immediately my skin feels fresh, clean and purified - it works wonders! This face mask is going to be a staple in my skincare, becoming one of the holy grail products. I cannot wait to try out the other masks in the range, and see what other clay face masks there are.

What is your favourite clay mask?

May 21, 2018 8 comments

When it comes to being a new blogger, it can be hard to get your name out there, and equally as hard to get your first initial view or follower. This can be so frustrating, especially when writing just one blog post takes time and effort. Despite this, there are multiple easy and simple ways to increase your blog traffic instantly.

Catchy Titles

One of the biggest tips for increasing blog traffic is definitely the wording of your titles. People are always looking for solutions, tips and answers daily, so by creating titles that bring this solution (e.g. 'Top 5 Tips to Become a Morning Person' or 'How I Cleared My Skin') will instantly bring the traffic.

Active on Social Media

For me, social media is my main driving force for blog traffic, and so if you're not using it, you're missing out. Social media gives you multiple platforms (Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest are my main platforms) to get your name out there, alongside updating your followers on new content. Interacting with other bloggers and your own followers gives them a reason to return the favour and hopefully become regular readers! So get involved in the wider blogging community through daily blog chats, follow and comment trains and begin promoting your content!

Clear Design

I have discovered so many blogs which have messy sidebars, no information about them, random pop-ups and an overall cluttered design. Do I re-visit their blog? No, and I'm pretty sure you wouldn't either. So, my tip is to create a design that keeps in theme and branding of your blog, which is cohesive and user-friendly. Therefore, you can ensure that readers will come back for more! There are other aspects of blog design that are a must; including a simple sidebar, categories, about, contact and follow information and much more.

Stay Consistent

I struggle with this tip, and I know it's hard to keep up when you're busy working or in full-time education, but posting frequently and on a regular schedule will definitely help to increase the traffic to your blog. Remember, you do not have to post daily (I don't) and there are many successful bloggers who showcase this. Yet, readers want to know when to refresh your blog! I post twice a week on Mondays and Fridays, which gives me time on the weekend and during the week to schedule multiple blog posts in advance. I would recommend having at least a weeks worth of posts pre-written, which can be achieved by taking photos in bulk.

Create Shareable and Beneficial Content

The posts which drive the most traffic for me are ones which are helpful for my readers, usually by sharing my tips and tricks (like this blog post!). This type of content is perfect for sharing on Pinterest and I've found that I get more engagement and interaction from these posts. Linked to this tip, is the idea of the catchy titles.

What do you do to increase blog traffic?

May 18, 2018 43 comments

Lately, the British weather has been tempting us with what feels like Summer, and so immediately I have started to create my Summer dreaming wishlist. For this, my go-to place is ASOS, as they have so many online brands and such a wide selection to choose from. This Summer, I am wanting to (slightly) step out of my comfort zone, and choose pieces which are fashionable but also 100% comfortable and wearable.

I definitely want to stock up on some more dresses, as they are so much more comfortable than denim shorts (a statement to be debated). On the wishlist currently, includes this amazing off the shoulder black dress, featuring large tortoiseshell buttons, a trend that every shop is picking up. The classic sweetheart neckline, which is so flattering on the chest, and over-the-top sleeves creates Parisien dreams! This makes the dress a winner in my eyes. It goes to show that everyone is loving this item, as it has been sold out for weeks, ASOS please re-stock this!

What is on your Summer wishlist?

What's your favourite place to shop for Summer clothing?

Shop this post and more:

May 14, 2018 7 comments

After having a rough skin history, I have always tried to keep my routine as basic and as simple as I possibly can. This includes a total of four products, which switches from day to night. However, I have started to slowly implement new products that won't disrupt my routine but enhance it. This is where the Clinique Sonic System comes into play.

Priced at £79, this brush system is still cheaper than many on the market, including the Clarisonic. It is worth to mention that this product is always on offer, as I snatched mine at half price! So, be sure to continuously check in your local Boots.

So let's run down what the Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush is all about...

The waterproof body gives you the choice to use this product in the shower, whilst the anti-microbial bristles can work hard at providing a deep and gentle cleansing for your skin. Therefore, the provided head (Clinique Sonic Purifying Cleansing Brush Head - the green and white brush) is perfect for all skin types. The angled tips allow you to target those t-zone areas, cleansing the areas which your fingers usually wouldn't, giving you the ultimate squeaky clean cleanse. The perks of using a cleansing brush within your routine allows any residue makeup to be lifted and removed.

Clinique also provides the opportunity to purchase other interchangeable heads, depending on your needs and specific skin type. So, I decided to choose the City Block Purifying Cleansing Brush (pictured on the body below), priced at £17. This specific head has charcoal infused bristles which aim to draw out pollution, dirt and oil to deeply purify and cleanse the skin. I usually like to use this brush head at night, especially after a long day at school or in the city.

Using this system is equally as easy: undergo your normal steps of removing makeup; apply your desired cleanser to the brush (I use the Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish, but Clinique recommend the specialised cleansing formulas: Foaming Sonic Facial Soap, Anti-Blemish Solutions Cleansing Gel, Extra Gentle Cleansing Foam or City Block Purifying Cleansing Gel); dampen the head or skin; begin to massage in circular motions for 15 seconds on the cheeks using the lighter grey or white; massage your t-zone in up and down motions for another 15 seconds using the darker coloured bristles and then simpy rinse, pat and moisturise.

Clinique recommends you to start using the brush once a day and for 30 seconds. Just to note, the brush automatically switches off after each 30-second interval, which is helpful in knowing how much you've done or if you've gone overboard! However, I tend to cleanse for one minute, as I believe that in 30 seconds I have only washed half of my face!

After using the Clinique Sonic System, I always find that my skin is ultra smooth and feels so clean, I don't think I will divert back to using my fingers. At first, I was sceptical of using this brush, as I didn't know if it would be too harsh on my acne-prone skin. However, the specialised brush heads cater for this, and I have had no problems so far! So, overall for me, this is definitely worth the price, plus it is so easy to use (easy interchangeable heads depending on your skin type and a simple charging station)!

Have you tried a brush cleansing system?

May 11, 2018 35 comments

I know it's a struggle to even comprehend waking up at 6:00AM every morning (it was for me too); everyone wishes for an extra few hours in bed. I also know that it is so easy to fall into a lazy routine, especially if you work from home, luckily I go to school during the weekdays (yet I still am a morning person on the weekends!). The added bonuses of becoming a morning person are definitely worth it: I have the whole day ahead of me which gives me no excuses to complete what's on my to-do list! For me, it's totally worth it, and it will be for you too!

So, I have compiled together my top 5 best tips for becoming that morning person...

1. Be prepared the night before

I always follow this tip especially during the weekdays, as getting myself prepared the night before is so beneficial. It helps to save time in the morning, when I know I wouldn't want to be rushing around, and it prevents me from forgetting anything. This usually includes packing my school bag, pre-making lunch or even breakfast, getting together my outfit, printing out work and writing the mornings to-do list.

2. Don't scroll through social media prior to falling asleep or immediately after waking up

One of my worst habits (that I still need to break), is instantly checking my social media minutes after I wake up. I then consequently lie in bed for an extra two wasted hours! Instead, you need to train yourself to instantly get out of bed and fully become awake - for me, this is washing my face and eating a good hearty breakfast!

3. Create a clean and calm space

By cultivating a space that you enjoy and feel happy in, allows you to have a calm space for sleep. The best part of the morning is waking up in a bedroom that you love.

4. Stick to a strict schedule

In order for all these tips to actually be set in stone, you have to stick to a schedule, and be strict! By following a plan, you will get plenty of sleep the night before. I believe this is the ultimate trick for becoming a morning person. By getting enough sleep, you'll wake up feeling energised, making the 'getting up' an easier task. So, try to go to bed at the same time each night, and wake up at the same time! Also, don't forget to continue this schedule into the weekends, otherwise your body clock will be thrown off.

5. Don't snooze

Before you're a morning person pro, your best friend will be the alarm clock. Until you have trained your body clock to naturally wake up at 6AM, the snooze button can be very tempting. The extra 5 minutes in bed can turn into an extra hour. If you're struggling to get rid of this habit; place your alarm clock on the far side of the room; in an area where it is still in hearing distance but far enough to physically get out of bed.

Are you a morning or night person?

What does your routine look like?

May 07, 2018 60 comments

May 04, 2018 10 comments

April 30, 2018 26 comments

One of my main goals for this year (and the following years) is to experience more cultures which means travelling to more places! I have always wanted to go on a Summer girl vacation, so I have put together a list of the top places I want to travel to (in Europe)!

I have actually visited Paris twice, but to me, this doesn't count, as I wasn't old enough to fully enjoy it and take it all in. At that age, I wasn't into blogging or photography or Instagram so I couldn't capture the beauty of the loved city. Also, can I point out, each time we went it was miserable weather, so definitely not one for the sights. When I do go back again (which just may well be this Summer, fingers crossed), I want to explore more than just the tourist sites and delve into the heart of the Paris lifestyle, eat at secret coffee shops, stroll down the back streets, and even test out my GCSE French? I think I am equally as excited to buy some Parisian-esque clothing! I'm already planning the outfits and photo locations!

Another location which is #instaworthy is Amsterdam. My dream would be to stay alongside the canal, in either a classic narrow house or even a boathouse. What I love about this city, is that it is such an easy city break trip, but one that can be packed full of places to go, eat and shop. Not forgetting, the Anne Frank Museum would be a must and the Van Gogh Museum too. I also think I'm in love with the whole city lifestyle/etiquette - cycling everywhere or getting to places via boat sounds like my kind of thing.

Copenhagen in the Winter months - yes, please! Yet, another area with great opportunities for some stunning photographs (I think you'll see a pattern here, don't worry it's not all for the gram). The architecture is so colourful - almost out of a book. What's not to love!

This location is slightly different to the rest, in the sense that it's more than just a city break. Positano is a classic Pinterest lover, and I'm sold! Its location is ideal for exploring the Almafi Coast, plus Capri is only 25 minutes away by ferry. I've also heard there are some spectacular hikes with award-winning views when complete - a challenge worth taking.

With the hillside village in the background from the beach - the views look stunning. This city-break is definitely one to catch a tan!

That concludes my round-up of the top European travel spots. Just writing this post has made me so excited for Summer, and what could be around the corner! Let's hope I can tick some of these destinations off and even add some more...

What's on your travel bucket list?
Would you want to see a world travel bucket list?

April 27, 2018 16 comments

Podcasts are my go-to when working (both blogging and schoolwork), going to sleep and whilst doing the everyday tasks around the house. Therefore, I have so many stored up in my library, ready for each occasion. My taste in podcasts varies from humorous entertaining episodes, serious girl chats ( I think these might be my favourite) and deep topics of conversation.

So, today I put together a roundup of my favourites in two parts (part 1 features those with two hosts and part 2 those with one!)

Table Manners with Jessie Ware

Jessie Ware, a British singer-songwriter hosts a podcast alongside her chef extraordinaire mum Lennie, in which she invites celebrity guests (ranging from fellow musicians, political figures and food critics), to basically overshare for an hour. Needn't I say less? Lennie is absolutely hilarious, with the dynamic between the two equally as stomach-wrenching, with so many laugh out loud moments. This podcast happens over dinner (as the name suggests) cooked by Lennie, and it always sounds so delicious. Tip -don't listen to it when you're hungry.

Crash on my Couch

A podcast from the YouTuber couple Arden Rose and Will Derbyshire, who are some of my go-to raw people on YouTube. I always love the podcasts which feature YouTubers or bloggers because I feel as though I can connect better with them - it must mean something if I can sing their theme song off by heart! What I love most about their podcast is the fact that they include different segments of which my favourites include the 'weekly idiot' and conspiracy theories (I'm a sucker for those). Within the podcast they also interact with their followers - giving them 'gold stars' if their question comes into conversation. This is an easy to listen to podcast - one that doesn't need a lot of attention, and one that you'll get hooked to instantly.

Ladies Who Lunch

Another YouTuber podcast, involving Cat Valdes and Ingrid Nilson, inviting you to join them at their table to discuss thought-provoking and often taboo topics. This is a podcast that I 100% always go back to, and re-listen to my favourite episodes, as the advice coming from two perspectives (they often do clash in views which is interesting to see how two close friends deal with situations differently) is so valuable in everyday life. The perfect one to listen to when you're craving that girlfriend advice.

Girl Boss with Sophia Amoruso

The name behind 'Nasty Gal' and the New York bestseller and now hit Netflix show 'Girl Boss', Sophia Amoruso hosts her own podcast interviewing boundary-pushing women, who have marked their name in the industry. You should expect raw conversations and honest advice from some of the most famous women (Sarah Jessica Parker, Miranda Kerr and the founder of DryBar just to name a few), which makes this podcast not only inspiring but also one to laugh along with. On the more serious side, this podcast is informative, finding out about how they got to where they are - utterly inspiring for those #girlbosses.

Don't Blame Me!

Yet, again another YouTuber podcast, but they are so good, I can't help myself! This time hosted by Meghan Rienks, acting as an agony aunt for her listeners who call in with their problems regarding relationships, body image and friendships. The aspect of 'calling in' is my favourite - getting to actually hear a real person's problem makes everything seem 10x more real. Yet, Meghan doesn't take herself too seriously, with the advice given as if it were between two girlfriends. Some episodes will feature guests, allowing another perspective and advice to be given, which helps change the dynamic and break up the routine every so often.

This concludes the round-up of my (current) favourite podcasts, and I'm sure you'll all be hooked sooner or later! If you haven't delved into the world of podcasts, I highly recommend you to start right now - the list above will keep you entertained for hours - and coming back for more! There's more where this came from - I've got so many more podcasts stashed away, so maybe that calls for a part 2?

What are your exciting new goals for the month of June?

What are your current favourite podcasts?

Double Check Your Writing

Check Photos

Tweet and Promote

Pin on Pinterest

Do you take any extra steps before or after hitting publish?

What is your favourite clay mask?

Catchy Titles

Active on Social Media

Clear Design

Stay Consistent

Create Shareable and Beneficial Content

What do you do to increase blog traffic?

What is on your Summer wishlist?

What's your favourite place to shop for Summer clothing?

Shop this post and more:

Have you tried a brush cleansing system?

1. Be prepared the night before

2. Don't scroll through social media prior to falling asleep or immediately after waking up

3. Create a clean and calm space

4. Stick to a strict schedule

5. Don't snooze

Are you a morning or night person?

What does your routine look like?

Who are your favourite Instagrammers for style inspiration?

Have you tried Ciate London nail polishes?

What's on your travel bucket list?Would you want to see a world travel bucket list?

What are your favourite podcasts?

Would you want to see a part 2? Or my favourite specific episodes?

Will you be purchasing any of these?

Would you like to see this as a series?

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Will you give this mascara a try?

Hey I'm Florence!

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What's on your travel bucket list?
Would you want to see a world travel bucket list?