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OOTD’s

Dress – Zara

Bag – Topshop

Sunglasses – Urban Outfitters

Top – Topshop

Jacket – Zara

Bag – Topshop

Two piece set – Prettylittlething

Blouse – Ruby Rooms (Saffron Walden)

Jeans – Topshop

Wedges – New Look

Belt – Gucci

Top – Prettylittlething

Skirt – Topshop

Boots – New Look

Jacket – Zara

Top – Prettlittlething

Jeans – Topshop

Heels – Topshop

Bag – Topshop

Hat – Bershka

C0A08ADB-86A8-4AB6-AE6F-F8C42FBFA49C

Playsuit – Soul & Cal

Wedges – River Island

Clips – Topshop

T-shirt dress – Prettylittlething

Boots – Mango

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Cycling Shorts – Topshop

Bralett – Topshop

Jumper – Primark (DIY cut)

Socks – Levi’s

Boots – Zara

Bodysuit – Pull & Bear

Trousers – Prettylittlething

Headband – New Look

WHAT’S IN MY MAKEUP BAG?

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Ever since I was in year 9 at secondary school I started wearing makeup on the daily. Of course I used the Maybelline Dream Matte Mouse, 3 shades darker than my actual skin tone so it left a lovely ‘slag line’ as we use to call it, (yes girls you know exactly what I’m talking about). Since then I WOULD NOT leave the house without wearing makeup (I would even draw my eyebrows on just to go to the shop in my village) because I was so insecure about my skin and what I looked liked without makeup. I had and still do to this day get spots and I also have very red pigmentation in my cheeks.

It’s only recently where I’ve started not to care about what others think about my skin (and also the fact that I start work at 6am/7am most mornings so who even has the time to do makeup). I thought it would be a good idea to let my skin breathe for a bit when I was at work and then when I did go out then that’s when I would cake the face. (I’m either an all or nothing girl ha).

Quite a lot of the time I get asked what foundation I use as I won’t lie, it does a great job of covering all my blemishes and flaws. So I thought I would just show you what is in my makeup bag and what products I love to use/ what works for me.

PRIMER/MOISTURISER: Aveeno (£4.99, Boots)

This stuff is truly amazing. I use it day and night on my face as I suffer with dry skin especially this time of the year. I know this isn’t actually considered a primer but I find that my makeup sits really nicely on top as it drys kind of tacky which means my foundation can stick whilst my skin is still being hydrated.

Foundation – Huda Beauty (£32, Selfridges)

This foundation is the main foundation I use when doing a full face. I honestly think the shade range and coverage is amazing along with the consistency. I’ve always found it hard to find a perfect shade for my skin tone but this is it and it feels great on the skin too. I would say this is a more high end product as it is quite pricey but a little goes a long way with this. (It also photographs really well as well).

Revolution Foundation – (£9 – Superdrug)

This is my more drug store foundation that I use underneath the Huda Beauty if I’m going on a night out and wanting a bit more coverage. (Yes that’s right 2 foundations, told you I was a cake face sometimes). The only thing I have found with this one though is when I use it by itself, it oxidises from the minute you start blending it in but the 2 foundations together work perfectly for me.

Concealer – Revolution (£4, Superdrug)

BEST CONCEALER EVER!!!!! It’s literally only £4 and the magic it works under your eyes I couldn’t believe it! It is said to be an amazing dupe for Tarte’s Shape Tape concealer which I can honestly believe. It sells out quickly though so I would recommend stocking up if you go to purchase it.

Powder – Rimelle London Match Perfection Translucent Powder (£4.99, Boots)

I have always struggled with trying to find a powder that doesn’t give you flashback when having your picture taken, (sometimes there just isn’t enough editing in the world that can hide flashback). But my friend told me about this one and since then I have never had a problem. I also really like it because it doesn’t cling to your dry patches which a lot of powders do.

Contour – Maybelline Super Stay Makeup Stick (£8.99, Boots)

Before I started using this I used the Kat Von D cream contour shade and light palette which was great but quite expensive for what it was. So someone told me that using a foundation stick was a quick/ easy and cheaper way to apply your contour. I find it easier to place where I want with the stick instead of using a brush which gives me a more chiseled cheekbone whilst I blend it out with a wet beauty blender.

Bronzer – Benefit Hoola Bronzer (£25, Benefit)

Ok I really do apologise for the state that my bronzer is in, I’m not even going to bother showing you the inside!! Having saying that this is the only bronzer that I have used for about 5 years now. It’s the perfect colour for my skin tone and it last’s an absolute lifetime! It might be £25 but it’s so worth it!

Mascara – Maybelline the Falsies Push Up Drama (£7.99, Boots)

I don’t really have much to say on this as I actually have eyelash extensions so apart from my bottom lashes I don’t wear mascara. But I will say it does really darken and lengthen the lashes.

Gel Eyeliner – KIKO Lasting Gel Liner (£7.90, KIKO)

I hardly ever wear eyeliner now I get lash extensions but when I do this eyeliner is amazing! It’s the most black liner I have ever used and it applies so smoothly.

Brows – NYX Tame and Frame (£7, Boots)

Brows are honestly the most important step in my makeup routine as they can change the way your whole face looks. I like using this because I prefer a strong and defined brow and I feel pomade’s achieve this look. I also really like the Anastasia Beverly Hills Dip Brow but again the NYX is a lot cheaper and does the job.

Music Flower – Liquid Eyebrow Pen (£1.89, Ebay)

I got this as one of my christmas presents from my best friend and I love using it for doing a light fade at the front of my brows. As you can see from the tip it helps give you hair like strokes without making the brows too dark or blocky.

Highlighter – MUA Peach Dimond (£5.99, Superdrug)

This highlighter isn’t my favourite at all but it’s ok for only £5.99. I feel like once you’ve gotten through the top layer of the product you really need to dig your brush in to get any pay off or pigmentation. If you want a subtle highlighter then this would be perfect for you.

Eyeshadow – Morphe X Jaclyn Hill (£37, Beauty Bay)

Again due to the fact I have eyelash extensions I don’t really wear much eyeshadow but when I do this is the palette I go for. It has so many amazing matte, neutral colours for your crease, shimmers for that extra something and then it has some really bright/ in your face colours too if you’re creating A LOOK!

Setting Spray – Mac Fix + Pink Lite (£18, Mac)

I have tried quite a few setting sprays from NYX to Urban Decay to Rimmel London but I also seem to find myself going back to Mac. I think it’s the best because it doesn’t leave any white spots on your face like some do, I find it hydrates the skin as well and the most important part of a setting spray is that it actually holds my makeup on ALL DAY!

My Makeup Bag – Ted Baker (£14.99, Ted baker)

I think that this is the perfect sized makeup bag as it fits my day to day makeup in along with my makeup brushes and if needed I can fit in more as well. It also doubles as a wash bag when I travel.

Thanks for reading guys, I hope you enjoyed. See you next time x

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HOW TO DEAL WITH SOMEONE WHO LIVES WITH ANXIETY

Following up from my last blog post on anxiety I thought it might be useful to talk about ways of helping someone deal with it. For anyone who is lucky enough not to suffer from anxiety or panic attacks it can be very difficult to be able to know what it is actually like dealing with them which then also may make it difficult to know what do to in the situation. I thought I would do a list of do’s and don’ts when helping someone through one.

(These are all from my own experience on what helps me and also researched I have conducted).

DON’TS:

Don’t freak out yourself – You are the one who can be in full control of the situation. If the person going through the panic attack see’s you panic as well that could only worsen the situation.
DON’T TELL THEM TO ‘JUST CHILL OUT’ – This makes it sound like you can’t be bothered to help them through it and could make the other person feel worse by thinking they’re over reacting when actually they’re not. Also if it were that easy to just ‘chill out’ do you not think we would do that?
ASK IF YOU CAN TOUCH THEM – Your first instinct could be wanting to touch and comfort them and your gesture may be out of kindness but not everyone wants to be smothered when suffering a panic attack.
DON’T JUDGE – To you, what they’re going through might mean nothing but to them it’s now affecting their health and could mean the whole world. Don’t put your own views and opinions in front of trying to do everything you can to help them.
DON’T ASSUME – Again, you are not the one going through this so don’t assume you know what that person wants. Everyone is different and manages them in their own way.

DO’S:

BE PATIENT – Staying calm and sensitive can have such an amazing effect on the person. A soft voice can go a long way in soothing someone. Also stay with them for as long as they need you, don’t go wondering off if you ‘get bored’ or think you’re not helping.
LISTEN TO THEIR NEEDS – Listening to their wants and needs will really help calm the person down. If they need a glass of water go and get them some water, if they need to stop and sit down stop and sit down with them.
SPEAK CLEARLY – I don’t know about anyone else but when I have a panic attack my hearing either goes muffled or I hear a high pitched sound so speaking slow and clearly in simple sentence is perfect.
Be predictable – Tell them what you are doing, whether you’re going to walk away from them quickly to get something or touch them for comfort. Never make any sudden movements and avoid any surprises.
STAY POSITIVE – By saying positive things it could hopefully get the persons mind onto thinking about something else. Tell them that it won’t last forever and they’re not the only ones dealing with it so they know they’re not alone.

I hope this post helps some people who maybe don’t suffer/ understand what it is like dealing with anxiety and panic attacks. Just remember to stay calm and collected throughout. See you soon x

ANXIETY

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So this is going to be another personal blog post as I thought I would share my experiences when it comes to struggling with anxiety and panic attacks. I have recently noticed from getting to know new people and reading other experiences that actually a lot of people my age seems to be dealing with anxiety and some of them don’t know how to deal with it. I thought I would open up about the things I do to try and calm myself down when I feel anxious or concerned/ in a panic attack.

For as long as I can remember I have always been a worrier to the point where I can be physically sick and it triggers a migraine (I also suffer with something called Migraine Aura which does not help the situation in the slightest). Now some days may vary on how much it’ll affect me and of course it depends on what the situation is, sometimes I feel confident enough to handle it whereas other times I will do everything in my power not to have to deal with it.

WHEN DO I MOST COMMONLY HAVE A PANIC ATTACK/ FEEL MOST ANXIOUS?

The last time I had a panic attack was at work in September before my appointment at the Breast Cancer Clinic. So thanksfully I haven’t actually had a panic attack in a while but a couple of years ago I was having them quite frequently.

Nights out – Now night’s out are strangely the most common time I feel the most anxious. I don’t know what it is about them because the majority of the time I love a night out: when I’m out on the dance floor with my friends or boyfriend I feel very alive but the thought of going on a night out can sometimes make my stomach turn.
Getting something wrong – If I make an honest, little mistake then most of the time I’ll own up to it and apologise, and forget about it, but if this mistake can have serious consequences (or if I believe it can have serious consequences) the thought of it can honestly take over my whole life and this is when I start to feel symptoms.
Confrontation – I am the WORST person when it comes to dealing with confrontation as I hate aruguing (with the people that mean the most to me). I get scared of losing/ upsetting people and a lot of the time back down and apologise even if it wasn’t my fault. Knowing I have to confront someone can honestly eat me alive.
New Experiences – Not to big myself up or anything but I like to think of myself as quite an easy going, friendly person especially when it comes to meeting new people. I love making people feel comfortable around me from the moment we meet but when it comes to new experiences such as work placements, or having to deal with a new situation out of my comfort zone this is where I feel very anxious and concerned. I worry that people won’t like me, or I’ll get something wrong and I won’t impress. (THIS IS COMPLETELY NORMAL THOUGH).

(Definition of a Panic Attack from the NHS)

MY SYPMTONS WHEN HAVING A PANIC ATTACK:

The first symptom I normally get at the beginning of a panic attack (which is when I know I need to get myself out of the situation if possible) is the feeling of all my energy being drained out of my body from top to bottom. Think of a glass of water and when you tip it the water pours out, this is exactly how I feel. It starts in my head and travels down my body until I feel limp and faint.
Numbness/Pins and Needles in my fingers and tongue – This is one of the most bizarre feelings to have and can sometimes affect my speech when trying to communicate. In my head I know what I want to say but I physically can’t get the words out or if I do they don’t make sense to the person I’m try to speak to.
Difficulty breathing – For me this is the worst part about having a panic attack because not being able to catch your breath properly is a very scary feeling and a lot of the time makes me more panicked. This symptom is also the most common when having a panic attack.
Hot flushes – This again is another common indicator within a panic attack. You can start to sweat and I feel my cheeks burning up and going red.
Tightening of my muscles – This usually happens when I start having difficulty breathing. Not being able to breath makes me panic more which then automatically makes my muscles tense up and stiffen. This obviously doesn’t help the situation as the main thing you need to do is try and relax.

MEANS OF COPING WITH PANICK ATTACKS

Now what might work for me might not work for everyone but these are just a few things I have been told to do and learnt myself from trial and error when I’m having a panic attack.

Control your breathing – The first thing I need to do is try and regain control of my breathing. I do this by breathing in through my nose for 5 seconds and then out through my mouth for another 5 seconds. This will begin to calm you down and it will also distract me from the thoughts I’m having.
Find an open space to look into – Whilst having a panic attack I can feel trapped and isolated so finding a big open space to focus my eyes on can make me feel less claustrophobic and more calm.
Head Space – Head Space is an app I downloaded on my phone which I often use. I normally use it before going to sleep at night to relax and help me get a better nights sleep. It is a form of meditation in which you listen to someone calmly talking to and within minutes I have fallen asleep.
Think Positively – The most important thing for me once I have my breathing under control is to tell myself that this is only a panic attack and its going to be over very soon, it isn’t going to harm me and I’m not the only one who deals with it.

Here are just a few places to get help and support if you suffer with Panic Attacks or Anxiety:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Mind Charity

No panic

Apologies if this was a longer post than normal but hopefully you will have found it interesting and helpful. If this helps just one person then that’s amazing.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read and if anyone would like to talk about anything or ask any questions then please feel free!! See you soon x

MY MISSGUIDED WISHLIST

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As Christmas is over and we are slowly starting the new year I can’t be the only one who is feeling a little rough when it come’s to money, (especially as I’m now saving to buy a flat). Even so I can’t help but keep flicking through pages and pages of online fashion brands adding things to my wish list ready for pay day.

One of my favourite things to do is styling and putting outfits together and as you’ll be able to tell my style differs. This depends on where I’m going and how I’m feeling that day. Some outfits are more daring than others and it’s just whether or not I actually have the confidence in wearing them out. I started exploring more into my outfits when I studied at the FRA in London as 1) studying fashion really opened my eyes to different trends and looks and 2) being in London no on gives two thoughts about what everyone else wear’s so I felt more comfortable in myself.

Here is what is in my basket on Missguided…

FASHION TRENDS WE CAN EXPECT THIS YEAR

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So recently I have been stalking fashion magazines and insta pages looking for outfit inspirations, following up and coming fashion trends in 2019 for the blog and just for myself in general. There are some more than others that have really stuck out at most of the S/S ’19 catwalk shows when it came to trend, new, old and all thats in-between.

One of the main themes that a lot of designers based their collections on was feminism and making women feel more empowered and feminine especially when it came to silhouettes and accessories. Now, some of the trends I am 100% completely here for yet others not so much.

OVERSIZED HATS:

Screen Shot 2019-01-01 at 21.57.11 — https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/gallery/spring-summer-2019-fashion-trends

Now some people suit oversized hats yet me on the other hand not so much. I also think they look out of place unless you’re on a beach.

TIE – DYE:

Screen Shot 2019-01-01 at 22.14.50 — https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/gallery/spring-summer-2019-fashion-trends

Never have been into Tye-Dye and I don’t think I ever will. Yet saying that if the middle dress wasn’t so bright I would be more inclined to try it on as I love the style and silhouette.

FRINGING:

Screen Shot 2019-01-01 at 22.16.50 — https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/gallery/spring-summer-2019-fashion-trends

YESSSSS TO FRINGING!!!!!!! I think fringing can really spice up any outfit whether it’s on a jacket/skirt or even your handbag. I feel it gives an extra layer to your look.

NEON:

Screen Shot 2019-01-01 at 22.17.48 — https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/gallery/spring-summer-2019-fashion-trends

Now we started to see neon coming into fashion near to the end of last year and again I am 100% here for it! Especially when it comes to festival season and summertime.

SEQUINS:

Screen Shot 2019-01-01 at 22.18.43 — https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/gallery/spring-summer-2019-fashion-trends

Can’t decide if I’m feeling this one or not. A couple of sequins on your top to make a pattern or down the side of your trouser legs can be fine but once plastered all over the outfit it can remind me of a little girls dream look.

Let me know what you think of all these trends we’re going to see in the next few months in shops. Are you here for them or not so much?

Hope you enjoyed, see you next time x

RANDOM OOTD’s

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Jumper – H&M

Jeans – Zara

Trainers – Louis Vuitton (Frontrow Trainer)

Bag – Louis Vuitton (Pochette Felicie)

Sunglasses – Hashtag Sunglasses

Black Utility Zip Shift Dress – Missguided

Sock Boots – Zara

Clutch – Some random shop in Monte Carlo (sorry)

Earrings – Topshop

Coat – New Look

Jeans – Topshop

Scarf – Zara

Shoes – TKMax

Sunglasses – Topshop

Top – Missguided

Trousers – Zara

Shoes – River Island

Coat – Topshop

Boots – Zara

Cross Body Bag – New Look

Top (BACKLESS) – Topshop

Mum Jeans – Topshop

Shoes – New look

Earrings – Vivienne Westwood

Jumper – Zara

Jacket – Zara

Leggings – Gym Shark

Trainers – Zara

Hoodie – Playboy x Missguided (favourite hoodie ever)!!!

Jacket – Zara

Bralette – Primark

Trousers – Topshop

Earrings – Topshop

MY TRIP TO PARIS

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Back in October I went to Paris with my family, boyfriend and sister’s boyfriend to have some fun exploring the famous sites and we got to go to my favourite place on earth, DISNEYLAND! Enjoy some pictures from my time there and I will suggest some of my recommendations on what to do if you ever get the chance to go. (I highly, highly recommend to go though it’s honestly so beautiful).

As some of you may know I am actually half French so have been to Paris/Disneyland many times, but no matter how many times you go it will always be magical as it’s such a beautiful place but also there is always something new to do. This was the first time going to Disneyland around halloween and can I just tell you that was an experience in itself. I don’t care how old you are you will always feel magical there.

MY ONE AND ONLY TIP FOR DISNEY IS THAT YOU HAVEEEEEEE TO BUY DISNEY EARS, IT HONESTLY COMPLETES YOUR WHOLE EXPERIENCE!

The next day we explored Paris. Now even though like I have said I have been to Paris many many times and seen the famous Eiffel Tower… well i had never actually been up it until now.

Just a little heads up, I fully recommend going to the top and seeing the views but I WOULD NOT do it without a bag full of snacks and drinks as you are marching up 669 steps, (also just take the lift back down, you’ve done your years worth of exercise on the way up).

After our adventure up the tower my mum, sister and I went to the theatre to see a fashion show – Jean Paul Gaultier’s FASHION FREAK SHOW and wow it was truly incredible.

It was the story about his life and how he became a designer and all the struggles he faced whilst trying to make it in the industry. You also learn about his deepest darkest personal issues whist watching fluffy dancing bears prancing about the stage and caborette girls with no tops on cat walking to the best 80″s music around. (Something for the both of you if you know what I mean). For the serious fashion lovers though you got to see so many pieces from his original catwalk collection being paraded down the stairs and through the audience. I couldn’t recommend this show enough if you are ever in Paris!!!

(Apologies for the lack of photos from the theatre, you were not allowed to film/take photos once inside).

Well thats another trip to Paris completed and it could have possibly been one of my favourites! I couldn’t recommend going enough as everyone I know who’s been has loved it too!

Feels good to be back writing and sharing my thoughts and experiences again but please remember to give me any suggestions and what you want to read in the future! Thanks for reading hope you enjoyed x

2019 – THE YEAR I GET MY LIFE TOGETHER

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HAPPY NEW YEAR to all you lovely lot! I hope you had the best christmas and of course the best night welcoming 2019, (I can just imagine how you are all feeling today).

2018 was a good year for me as I graduated from college, got promoted at work, had the best summer to date and of course actually grew a pair and started my blog, OMG. OhMyGarmz! Now just like every other person on the planet I do have a few New Year Resolutions for 2019 that I am honestly going to try my best at sticking to and achieving by the end of the year.

PUBLISH A BLOG AT LEAST ONCE A WEEK – So this is defo an important one for me as this blog and website is just the beginning and foundation of what I want to do in the future. Also I just love planning, shooting, and writing them which is a bonus for myself.

SAVE MONEY – This one could also be a resolution for a few of you as well but for myself I turned 21 last year and really do feel like I need to start thinking for my future and by the beginning of 2020 I would loved to have moved out and have a place to call my own. (Also just then go and blow all the money in IKEA that I have saved on little bits and bobs for my house).

LOSE WEIGHT – Most of you probably won’t know but just like a lot of other male and females I am very conscious about my weight and really not comfortable with it at all. This is all my own doing as I do actually have a PT which I love doing sessions with him but 6 days out of 7 I don’t go to the gym and eat what I want when I want which needs to change ASAP. This one will defo be the hardest one to stick to but I feel like if I can stick to this one I can do anything!

PASS MY THEORY – Yes I am 21 and still haven’t got my license, shameful I know! I’ve already failed my theory once and to be honest couldn’t be bothered to do it again after but this is the year that I will pass! (So watch out)!

READ MORE – Again most of you won’t know but reading is one of my favourite things to do but I only ever seem to read when I’m on holiday (trust me I can get through about 4 books if you give me sun and a beach). I have so many books which I bought last year, started to read and just gave up because I was always too busy or too tired.

So there you have it here are my New Year Resolutions, what are yours? x

A LITTLE 2018 REFLECTION

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As today is our last day of 2018 (who can actually believe it) I thought I would look back on the year and reflect. I feel like this year has been probably one of the busiest years for me in terms of I haven’t stopped. I went from going to college in London and working part time to having the best summer ever to working full time non stop, in addition to my every day life.

So here are just a few of my 2018 memories with the people I love the most…

JANUARY:

Budapest…

February:

Rome…

Milan…

My very first London Fashion Week…

MARCH:

My 21st Birthday…

Cut my hair (major change)…

APRIL:

Got my first tattoo…

Barcelona with my bestie…

MAY:

Got my second tattoo:

WE R Festival…

JUNE:

Parklife Festival…

Strawberries and Cream Festival…

Nice and Monte Carlo…

JULY:

Graduation…

Got my third tattoo…

Wireless Festival…

Mum’s 50th Birthday…

AUGUST:

Guadeloupe…

Maz’s 21st Birthday…

SEPTEMBER:

Got another tattoo…

Took my boyfriend for a weekend away in London…

OCTOBER:

Got a new princess from a rescue charity… (her name is Martha/Martha Moo)

NOVEMBER: (Was boring lol)

DECEMBER:

Christmas…

And that was my 2018!!! I had such a fun year but 2019 is the year I get my life together (possibly, hopefully, fingers crossed).

HAVE THE BEST NIGHT TONIGHT AND STAY SAFE, see you next year x

AND SHE’S BACK!!!

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Hey guys, long time no see (that’s my bad, oops)!

To be honest with you I don’t have much of an excuse as to why I’ve been gone nearly 3 months… But surprise surprise as New Year is fast approaching I need to act quickly if I want to do the whole “new year, new me” blah blah blah and stick to at least one resolution.

The main reason that I’ve been so MIA on the blog is that if I’m being 100% honest I ran out of idea’s… after only 8 blogs (TRAGIC, I know).

I started this blog to mainly post fashion related things or little getaway trips but there’s only so many clothes I can buy a month and places to go. Also I don’t know about you but when I read other bloggers post or watch Youtube channels I love seeing just the plain jane normal stuff that they get up to as well along with the makeup tips, OOTD’s and skin care routines. So I thought I would jump back on here for just a quick post and ask ever so kindly for YOUR help.

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO READ?

If anyone could give me ANY suggestions at all that would honestly be fabulous! Obviously I love to write for myself but I would feel great if I was actually maybe helping someone out and have them enjoy reading what I have to say.

Any way that’s it for this post (short but sweet) and I will speak to you all very soon, PROMISE! x

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HAVE A LITTLE FEEL ONCE A MONTH – PLEASE!

*Disclaimer – this is going to be a lengthier blog post than normal, kind of like a story time!

As it is breast cancer awareness month I thought this would be the perfect time to finally speak in the open about what has been constantly on the back of my mind so much recently. I’ve been back and fourth debating whether to post this or not as it is quite a hard blog to share because 1) it’s very personal and 2) I’m scared as to whether people will judge me for posting it just to get ‘attention’ or ‘sympathy’. THS IS NOT what I want as I’ve had amazing support already from my closest friends and family and I am 100% ok and healthy. This is simply for AWARENESS!

For a little while I hadn’t been feeling 100% at all, constantly exhausted (going to bed at 9pm every night), hot flushes, migraines more often than normal and what felt like a cold coming on yet I thought nothing of it. Then about a month ago I got back from a night out after having a few too many drinks and was attempting to get ready for bed at a stupid hour of the morning! (We’ve all been here don’t lie)! As I was trying to somehow unhook my bra my hand got caught and I felt something on on my left breast which caused some pain and discomfort. I started to have a feel about and I felt what was to me a lump which I had never noticed before. I went to bed with that on the back of my mind thinking I was to book a doctors appointment asap.

The Tuesday after I booked my appointment and went to the doctors quite calm as I didn’t think much of it. After I explained to the doctor my symptoms and the lump, he asked if he could have a feel. After having an initial feel he brought the nurse in as he felt like he needed to do a full examination as something didn’t feel quite right. He then sat me down and because of my symptoms he immediately referred me to the breast cancer clinic. He told me to keep checking everyday that it hadn’t grown but to not worry as we were going to get everything checked.

After what felt like the longest week of my life the day of my appointment arrived and I had never felt more scared or worried about anything! It was at the Breast Cancer clinic in Addenbrookes and walking into the reception was the most overwhelming thing ever. I was by far the youngest woman there.

I had a doctor do another initial ‘examination’ and straight away he said that what I had was a Fibroadenoma lump in the side of my left breast and that the ultra scan I was about to have would confirm that and I could then go home after. I felt a massive weight off my shoulders walking out of that room.

I felt calm walking in to have my ultra scan as I just thought this was going to confirm what I had been told. The doctor was having a feel and a look round for about 5 minutes before replaying the scan and having a zoom in and out of the pictures. I could tell by her face that something didn’t seem right and she got the other nurse to come and double check. After looking back and forth she turned and said that she wanted to conduct a biopsy there and then as the lump looked very lumpy to be a Fibroadenoma. Now for anyone who knows me knows I absolutely HATE the hospital, needles, just everything about them petrifies me and for her to suddenly tell me she had to perform that after being told I was ok was the worst.

Anyway after she gave me a local anaesthetic in the side of my breast I can confirm, having a biopsy really isn’t as scary as it sounds!!!!!! They were amazing with me, making conversation making sure my head was always looking the other way and keeping me distracted. It only took around 10 minutes as well! After that I was stitched up and told that I would get my results the following Monday and was sent home.

Fast forward to now and thank fully I am all well and the lump was just a very lumpy Fibroadenoma which is something woman (and some men) can get generally from the age of 15-30 years old. It doesn’t need to be surgically removed and will hopefully go on its own in the next 18-24 months. But I have to keep checking it to see whether anything changes (bigger, more painful).

Like I said at the beginning this post is all about awareness and CHECKING YOUR BOOBS ON A REGULAR BASIS!!! Before this experience I had never checked as I didn’t actually know what I was looking for but I can’t stress enough the importance of having a feel and getting to know your body, looking out for any changes that might occur and whether it’s the smallest little change, GO TO YOUR DOCTORS! I live by the motto ‘better to be safe than sorry’ and this was exactly the case!

Here are some pictures and links to pages that can help you know what you’re looking for and what to do.

News article on lumps may not be the only sign

Video on how to check your breasts

Here is an amazing fashion show being held in the grande arcade in Cambridge supporting breast cancer UK

Again, I’m sorry for the lengthy post but I just wanted to get my story out and bring awareness to checking as I know most of my readers are probably my age and may feel like we don’t need to worry about stuff like this.

If anyone has any questions about anything please feel free to ask and I can happily answer them all!

Thank you so so so much for reading and I really hope this helps some people think about checking more often it is so important x

We all need a Mini Vaccay

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As I sit here planning content on a Wednesday afternoon I can’t help but wish I was planning my next little getaway. This year I have been very fortunate when it came to getting away for a few days and seeing different parts of Europe.

So here are just a few of my holibob pics and memories from my time away throughout this year.

BUDAPEST:

Me and one of my best friends wanted to do a long weekend away in the new year and we both thought of Budapest. We walked for what felt like 100 miles a day, saw the famous sights, ate amazing food and partied in castle ruins. It is hands down one of my most favourite places I have ever been to and I would 100% recommend!

ROME:

I was lucky enough to have my boyfriend take me to Rome as my Christmas present for Valentines day. It was freezing cold but that didn’t stop us from seeing the Colosseum, the Vatican and the Trevi fountain. We also ate the best pizza ever.

MILAN:

Milan was a trip I went on with college as part of our studies. I went to fashion exhibitions, saw all the sights and and spent god knows how long in the biggest Zara store I’ve ever been in!

BARCELONA:

My best friend and I decided to do a little getaway in Spring as we weren’t going on a summer holiday together and we both knew Barcelona would be a lot of fun! We were very lucky with the weather and I drunk the best Sangria and ate THE BEST paellas EVER! Barcelona is one of those places where no matter how many times you return you always have the best time.

MONTE CARLO/MONACO:

After graduating from college and my sister finishing her GCSE’s my mum took us to Monte Carlo. I can’t even begin to describe what it is like out there, it is a whole different world to what i know filled with lavish, shops, cars, restaurants, hotels, casino’s and more. It is definitely an experience which I would recommend but it is also a beautiful place to visit and sight see!

I hope you enjoyed finding out about where I’ve travelled too this year and I am defo looking for somewhere else to go on my next adventure. If everyone has any suggestions then please let me know! x

A/W ’18 CLOTHING HAUL

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Fashion wise, Autumn is 100% my favourite time of the year. The big knits come out, roll necks and teddy coats are what I live in. Here is just the beginning of my A/W ’18 clothing collection with definitely more to come as the months go on.

(p.s – Sorry in advance, I wear the same jeans in majority of my outfits, they’re only £15 from Primark and are by far my fav pair!)

A/W ’18 HAUL:

Teddy Coat – New Look

Mom Jeans – Primark

Bodysuit – Missguided

Shoes – River Island (last season)

Knitted Jumper – Zara

Jeans – Primark

Boots – Public Desire

Blouse – River Island

Jeans – Primark (you get the gist)

Heels – New Look

Jacket – Zara

Trousers – Topshop (last season)

Cropped Jumper – Missguided

Joggers – Missguided

Blouse – Ruby Rooms

Earrings – Topshop

Loafers – TK MAXX

Just as I was finishing up this post I did another online shop (surprise surprise) so expect to see more!

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed x

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THE MEANING BEHIND MY TATTOO’S

I have always quite liked the thought of having a tattoo but 1) never knew what I wanted (and I would only get one if it meant something to me) and 2) it involves needles. Now for anyone who knows me knows I don’t do well with needles, the thought of them literally sends shivers down my spine. But within the last five months I have gone from having 0 ink across my body to four tattoo’s all with personal meanings behind them.

My first tattoo came about by my best friend tagging me in one of our local tattoo parlours insta pages as they had a weekend special going on to have a tattoo for a discounted price. We both knew we wanted something small and discreet which was perfect as we really had to big each other up and hold each others hand when it came to actually having it.

My second tattoo is very special to me as it is my little sister’s name. When I decided I wanted to get a tattoo the first thing I knew I wanted was my sister’s name. It’s one of those one’s where I would never get anyone else’s name inked on me but my sister felt different. I showed the artist what type of font I wanted and in my eyes he got it perfect, it’s just so delicate!

My third tattoo is my biggest and possibly my favourite! So I have become slightly obsessed with scrolling through tattoo pages on Instagram and came across a lot of rose designs which I thought looked amazing! The meaning behind my specific rose is ‘to new beginnings and hope’. This was perfect as I had just graduated from college and was in the works of starting this blog.

My fourth and most recent tattoo again was one I knew that if I was to ever get one I needed to have something to do with my dog. I am OBSESSED with her she is honestly the princess in the family so had to be on me somewhere. I thought behind my ear was a perfect location to have her paw tattooed as it’s small but has such a personal meaning behind it.

(straight after I had it done)

So there are all my tattoos (for now, much to my mum’s horror) and the personal meanings behind them.

Thank you so much for reading and I hope you enjoyed x

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THE FASHION RETAIL ACADEMY

So as a new school year is beginning I thought this would be the perfect time to talk about where I studied for the last 2 years before graduating this summer with a Merit and a diploma from The Fashion Retail Academy.

After completing my GCSE’s I went to a sixth form college in Cambridge where apart from meeting some of my closest friends I pretty much wasted 2 years as I came out with zero A-levels. I was then back to square one not knowing what I wanted to do whether I wanted to carry on studying or go and find a full time job and if so in what? But I knew 100% uni was a big big no no for me!

My mum knew I had always been interested in fashion and came across the ‘FRA’ – The Fashion Retail Academy. As soon as I read through the prospectus I knew this college would be perfect for me and I applied straight away.

The FRA offer not just Fashion Design courses but the retail and business side to things which is what I ended up studying. The exact course I studied was ‘Level 3 Fashion Retail’ and this was a 2 year course including Visual Merchandising, Contextual Studies, The Supply Chain, Fashion Marketing, Buying, Retail Management and more.

The Level 3 Fashion Retail course consists of 13 units, all coursework, consisting of…

Creating blogs and websites on sustainable fashion
Building your very own 3D shop including what your windows will look like
Creating and designing your own 10 piece range plan
Conducting a comp shop
Writing and shooting for your own magazine
Running your very own pop up shop raising money for charity.

So if you’re more of a creative minded course than it would honestly be perfect for you!

What also makes the FRA so special and unique are the teachers. All the teachers there have had years of experience in their chosen teaching field and can tell you personal stories, tips and tricks from their time in the industry. They also spend a lot of time planning industry talks (where people from the industry come in and give a talk), industry job fairs and industry projects (so working for a brand e.g. I worked with Topshop and the magazine ASBO on different projects).

To help support all of your primary research and final pieces of work the college take you on lots of trips to different exhibitions and museums to help give you inspiration and ideas for yourself. Some of the places we went included…

Burberry Exhibition – Makers House London

Balenciaga Exhibition – Victoria and Albert Museum

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London Fashion Week

Milan

So whether you’re looking to do just a short course, 2 year diploma or a uni degree in either Fashion Design or Fashion Retail I couldn’t recommend The Fashion Retail Academy more. They were honestly (apart from the occasional stress when deadlines were looming, but who doesn’t want to rip their hair out when deadlines are around the corner) the most fun 2 years I have ever had studying!

To check out the FRA page and how to apply click this link

Sorry this was a little more lengthy than usual, but trying to explain what I’ve done for the past 2 years was difficult to chop down, and tbh I could have gone on and on and on!

Anyways thanks for reading and hope you enjoyed! x

SUMMER HOLIDAY ’18

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Guadeloupe – The most beautiful French Caribbean Island

After having our traditional summer holidays in Spain for the last however long I can remember I finally got to travel to the other side of the world to the beautiful French Caribbean Island of Guadeloupe.

We were lucky enough to stay in the only way I can describe it….. the Love Island Villa. It honestly looked a spitting image, with the word ‘love’ in pink plastered across the wall and an infinity pool over looking the most amazing type forest.

When I say pictures do not do this place justice, I mean PICTURES DO NOT DO THIS PLACE JUSTICE! It’s one of those locations you can find on the front of a postcard or in a holiday brochure. The most clear water, the soft white sand of the beach, the breath taking picturesque views and of course not forgetting the most amazing insta backgrounds. (I think by the end of the holiday my family and boyfriend were fed of me saying ‘ooo can you just get a quick photo’ , ‘and another, and another, and another).

There are two days that stick out to me as being my favourite’s from the whole holiday. The first one was a boat trip out to the tiny, deserted island of Terre-de-haut. It was a 35/40 min boat trip from the main island of Guadeloupe where we were staying to this tiny little island which you could walk one side to the other in just 20 minutes. Here we did snorkelling where I swam with the most colourful (and hugeeee) fishes I’ve ever seen and the cutest little turtle, canoeing and petting the islands iguanas whilst trying to eat lunch.

Now for anyone who knows me well knows how much of a geek I am when it comes to the BBC drama series Death in Paradise. Well…….. my dreams came true and I got to explore the set where it is all filmed, including the police station, the bar where they all go for a drink after finding the killer and I even got to walk around Detective Richard Poole’s shack on the beach! (Yes I did try out the hammock). We even saw them filming in the police station which I may or may not have fan girled over slightly.

But honestly what a better way to end the holiday then by bumping into the commissioner himself at the Guadeloupe airport…. (Yes we did ask for a photo).

So that was my fun-filled 2 weeks on the island of Guadeloupe and for anyone wanting a new holiday destination that isn’t your typical Bali or Thailand then I would 100% recommend this place.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed all my holiday pics! x

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OUTFITS

When it comes to outfits I always spend WAY too much time thinking about what I’m going to wear. Here are some of my favourite outfits that I have worn and where they are from for anyone asking….

Top – Prettylittlething

Trousers – Missguided

Trainers – Air Force

Sunglasses – H&M

Belt – Gucci

Dress – Zara

Heels – River Island

Sunglasses – Topshop

Watch – Michael Kors

Purse – Louis Vuitton

Dress – Pretttlittlething

Top – Primark

Trouser – Prettylittlething

Shoes – Topshop

Earrings – Topshop

Two -piece – Prettylitlething

Shoes – Topshop

Sunglasses – Topshop

Bag – Zara

Jumper – Zara

Bag – Louis Vuitton

Sock boots – Zara

Bodysuit – Zara

Trousers – Zara

Shoes – Topshop

Bag – Louis Vuitton

Off the shoulder jumper – Missguided

Joggers – Missguided

Sunglasses – Topshop

Bag – Louis Vuitton

Earrings – Topshop

Dress – Prettylittlething

Heels – New Look

Belt – Gucci

Bag – Louis Vuitton

Playsuit – Zara

Shoes – New Look

Bag – Louis Vuitton

Bodysuit – Zara

Trousers – Topshop

Shoes – Topshop

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WELCOME!

Phew ok here it goes…….. Hello and thanks for joining!

I’m Anais and I’m a 21 year old fashion fanatic from Cambridge. I have always wanted to start a blog but never EVER had the guts to as I have always been afraid of what people thought and whether or not I would be judged but here we are and most importantly WHO CARES!!!

Instagram – @anaisdumez

This is me. A girl who spends too much money on clothes and too much time scrolling through different bloggers accounts on Instagram wishing I was them living their lifestyle. As this is my first blog post I thought I would keep it short and sweet by giving you a little insight into who I am and what I do, so here are 10 facts about me….. Enjoy!

1. Like I have said I am 21 years old but infact look about 16 (tragic, I know)

2. I have lived in Cambridge my whole life (but would love to move to London and then New York)

3. I have possibly the cutest dog in the world (Insert one of the 1000’s of photos I have of her)

4. I am a graduate from the FRA – ‘Fashion Retail Academy’ in London just off Oxford Street. I studied Level 3 Fashion Retail for 2 years and graduated this year.

5. I am actually half French, yet never ask me to speak on the spot as it will never happen.

6. From the age of 3 to when I was 16 years old I danced and trained at Bodywork dance company and my dream was always to become a professional dancer.

7. Zara is possibly my favourite brand when it comes to winter time as for those who know me know ALLLLLL of my knitwear comes from there. I live in them and spend at least half my wage a month on cosy jumpers.

8. I am always, always, always cold. Anything under 25 degrees and I’m moaning.

9. I am a skin care lover. Day and night I will drown my skin in face masks, creams, face peels and more.

And finally

10. My biggest aspiration is to set up my own fashion brand and styling blog/service. To help girls get killer outfits for any occasions whilst feeling as confident and cute as can be.

Well then, there you have it my very first blog post. I hope you enjoyed reading and will return. Please comment/ DM me any questions you have and anything you would potentially want to read about. Thank you and welcome to OMG.OhMyGarmz.

THE BIG APPLE – NEW YORK, NEW YORK