"OH YOU WEAR SUNGLASSES INSIDE? IT MUST BE SUNNY ON PLANET COOL."

Oh I love a good pair of sunnies. Don't you? They're perfect for hiding tired eyes, or can't-be-bothered-to-put-mascara-on eyes, plus they have the power to add a whole lot of jazz to your look. Whether that's instant glam, or retro chic, edgy cool or just nerd central, there is a frame out there for everyone. So glad this little gem is working it's way back into the mainstream again for Spring '13. And things are getting exciting.

Gone are the days of boring sunglasses, this Spring, designers have been popping out crazy shades on the catwalks. Over-sized, cat-eye, square, round, hexagonal, neon the lot. Take your pick!

Image source - Glamour.com

They'e so versatile and really can be worked in so many ways. Definitely an all round wearable trend this season. If you have some old ones, why not re-invent them? Get your creative hat on, grab some glue and glitter and things and get messy. Re-vamp, and restyle, your way. The ultimate statement sunny! Let me know if you do DIY some, I'd love to see!

Images - weheartit.com

Here's some I found whilst having a browse...

L-R: Dolce and Gabanna Transparencies, Vogue Hexagon, ASOS Over-sized 70s,
Jeepers Peerpers Vintage Square, ASOS Round sunglasses with Metal Bridge, Topshop Aviator Rose.
All found on ASOS excpet the Topshop sunnies.

Have a lovely day x

Love x

Disclaimer - I was not asked by any brand or anyone to write this post. I just like sunglasses. 
Quote in title - Unknown.

WHO ME? WHY THANK YOU.

Hello all, how are you today? I'm in such a good mood at the moment, uni deadline, DONE. And breathe.
The project I've just handed in (well yesterday) has been on-going since September, so I've had an abundance of work to do that has caused me quite a lot of stress. But it's done! And it's handed over! So I didn't have to wake up early this morning, which was wonderful, and I'll be honest, I'm still in bed. I'm not moving. Unless it's for food - obvs.

I can now officially say I have designed my own collection, how weird is that? Check out my instagram (@vicki_louise) for a sneak preview if you like, but beat in mind it's just a quick snap off my phone during the line up, so it's not the best quality. The next project is 'professional practice' so that's when I'll be doing proper photo shoots to show it off, and work on my portfolio. Anyone who is a size 8, and over 5'7" that has done some modelling before and would like to help out, and add to your portfolio, please do get in touch. Preferably in the Bristol area.

I'm quite excited to start doing photoshoots again, I love photography, especially fashion photography, so it will be great to get behind the camera again. I have some old shoots that I'm thinking of posting, would you be interested to see some of my work?

In other news, I was over the moon to see that I have been awarded the 'Liebster award' by Petit Moi, how sweet is that! I didn't know what 'Liebster' meant, but according to Google, it means 'sweetheart, beloved person, darling' n'aaaw thanks. *Blushes*

I feel like royalty right now (bit much?), it's lovely to think that there are people out there that take the time to read my blog, which makes me so happy! If only one person gets inspired by something I post, then happy days.
Writing this has turned from an enjoyable hobby, to a borderline obsession - which is fine, I'm sure. I love it so much, so I'm glad you lovelies are reading. Thank you. *Big cheesy grin*

The award - It's awarded by anyone to bloggers that have less than 200 followers and deserve some recognition and motivation to carry on what they do - such a lovely concept, I'm flattered.

As with most things, there are rules. As a receiver, I have to thank the person who nominated me - isn't that a given? THANK YOU LAURA-FAERIE.

List 11 facts about myself - hhmmm...

1. I have a weird love for noodles. All kinds. My mum still thinks that one day I will turn into a noodle. Plus the word noodle is so fun to say. NOODLE.
2. I love shoes and jewellery, well all accessories. Shoes and accessories will always fit. That's my moto. I probably have more items of jewellery than I do clothes.
3. I love tea. But I wish I loved coffee just as much. I'm trying little coffee beans, I'm trying.
4. I have never been outside of Europe. I really want to see the world, experience different cultures, get some sun and take lots of photos. I'm not complaining though, I am lucky enough to have been to quite a few places in Europe, and have wonderful memories. I just feel it's time to step out.
5. I was a gymnast for most of my life, in both Artistic gymnastics, and Sports aerobics (aerobic gymnastics as it's now called) and loved every minute of it. It's through those and being on the G.B team that I managed to see so many countries, competing etc, not trying to toot my own horn here...
6. I was born in Ireland, and am half Irish.
7. I'm also a quarter Indian and a quarter English.
8. I have interned at House of Holland, and am currently interning at Motel Rocks.
9. I aspire to work in fashion. I want to be the one who goes to fashion week, works on photoshoots and travels the world looking at amazing clothes.
10. I'm in love with the most amazing guy in the world. (Tissue anyone?)
11. I can't ride a bike. Well, not round corners, or through gaps at least, I can go straight. That's it.

Answer the 11 questions given to you... (Why 11? Not 10? No? Fair enough).

1. Would you rather drink hot or cold drinks?
Well it depends, is it hot or cold outside? I love tea, but then who doesn't love a nice cold cocktail in the summer?!
2. What is your favorite type of blog to read?
Beauty and fashion. And food.
3. What is your favorite type of blog to write?
This one. Beauty, fashion and all things in between.
4. Did you have an idol when you were growing up?
Erm, I'm not sure. My mum and I have always been the best of friends, so I looked up to her (still do) a lot growing up. I've always had a girl crush on P!nk. I just love her 'I-don't-give-a-shit' vibe. So edgy. She is always an inspiration to just be myself.
5. What's your favorite beauty brand?
MAC, Benefit or Rimmel.
6. Favorite smell?
Vanilla. Or cherry.
7. Films or TV series'?
Ah. I love watching a good film, with some yummy snacks, all snuggled up and piggin' out. But then I love love love Friends. Seen 'em all. Know practically every word. Saying that I also know every single word to 'Finding Nemo'. Could I be any less cool?
8. Colour or black and white photography?
Ooh that's hard. I love both, yet there is something quite magical, raw and pure about black and white.
9. What album would you choose if you could only listen to one album ever again?
This is a mean question. Don't take my music away! Haha. I could listen to Coldplay 'Viva La Vida' over and over, so maybe that? I don't know. TOO HARD.
10. Night in or big nights out?
Both. - I know I'm cheating but I do love both, depends on the day.
11. What always makes you smile?
Matthew. I just loves him. Oh, and videos of animals with human voices.

Choose 5 bloggers to nominate....

Moon Child
Ashleigh's Little Closet
Velvet Ghost
Knitwear and Faux Fur
Seize the Beautiful 

and tell them. I'm on it...

Here are your questions..

1. Fashion icon?
2. Marmite - Love or hate?
3. Summer or Winter?
4. Must have wardrobe staple?
5. Most expensive item you've ever bought?
6. Celebrity 'silver fox' crush? (Older man, think Clooney, mmm).
7. Heels or flats?
8. Orange juice - with or without the pulp?
9. Pet peeve?
10. Fashion faux pas?
11. Worst outfit you've ever worn. A true 'what the hell was I thinking wearing that?!' moment.

Those who I've nominated, please do leave a link to your post in the comments, I'd love to read!

Phew! If you're still reading, then thank you! Have a wonderful day.
Much love and happy blogging x

Disclaimer - All the drawings are my own, please don't take them!

"YOU GOTTA WEAR THE RIGHT PAIR OF TROUSERS IF YOU'RE GONNA BE A ROCKSTAR."

I don't think I actually own a proper pair of trousers that aren't the standard black work trousers. I was looking on Nasty Gal earlier and came across some Houndstooth pants and fell in love! That got me searching so I've put a little collection together of trousers I have scouted - and are now on the ever growing list of wants. I guess I used to associate trousers with women, you know, the older, working lady. But actually, they are perfectly acceptable for any age, although I guess I am older now... and working. Ergh.  Plus they instantly make you look smart and sexy at the same time. WIN.
The line up...

L-R: 1&2 - Urban Outfitters, 3 - Nasty Gal, 4 -  Ebay, 5 - Romwe, 6 - Topshop, 7 - Nasty Gal

They're so pretty. I really want to vamp up my style if I'm honest. I don't think I have any particular style, I suppose I just wear what I like which is good I guess, but I want to be seen as having a signature look. I have decided I'm going on a entire re-do of myself. A re-invention if you wish. Starting with hitting the gym - and actually going - eating healthily, and spending more time on my appearance. I think I've got a bit lazy.
It's time.
So one of the things I'll be adding to the new look is a decent pair of trousers. Or three.
I also want to wear more heels - in the day time. Oooh. Maybe even wear both at the same time if I'm really daring.

Do you wear trousers? Or are you more of a leggings girl like me? Has anyone been makeover-ing themselves since the new year?

Disclaimer - images taken from corresponding websites. I was not asked to make this post by any of the brands. I just liked them :)
Quote in title - Chris Martin.

SNOW DAY.

YAY. It's snowing! I'm sure most of you already know this, and have FB newsfeeds inundated with this statement, but it is very exciting. I've already made a mini snowman named Timmy (check the instagram @vicki_louise if you'd like to see) and the boys have made, well, I'll be honest, a 6 foot snow penis. Nice.

I got my boyf to take some photos of me, so I'm actually going to put up an outfit post! Dun dun dun...

Hat, Snood and Mittens - Primark
Tiger head top - Motel
Cardigan - Random cheap shop
Leggings - Tesco (worn with tights underneath)
Coat - River Island
Boots - TK Maxx
Lipstick - Burberry Lip Velvet in Hawthorn Berry

So there you go! What is everyone doing in the snow today? Or do you even have any?? Let me know I'd love some ideas on how to make this the best snow day ever.

Love xx

Disclaimer - All items were either purchased with my own money, or were presents from friends and family.

Mini Christmas Haul.

I know this is extremely delayed, but I was going to hold off and do individual posts on these items, yet I've been very busy and haven't managed to. These are just a few little things I got for Christmas, I photographed them straight away, hence the Christmas theme, so I thought I'd put the pictures up now and do reviews on them another time - when I actually start using them!

How cute is this?! LUSH box with a Santa belt? Love.

LUSH - Cinders bath bomb

LUSH - Not sure what this one is called, I couldn't find it online. But it's a soap. And it's pretty. And it's a star.

Carolina Herrera - 212 Glam eau de toilette. It smells INSANELY GOOD.

Lumiere Collection - Bronzer. It's practically the size of my hand.

 What do you think? I thought it would be best to put them up now whilst its still relatively close to Christmas. It would look a bit strange having Christmas paper in a post in June...

The only thing I've used so far is the Carolina Harrera perfume. It smells so unbelievably good. I love how it comes in this ice cube packaging, I've taken that part off and used each end as storage for hair clips and things, it looks so lovely on my dresser. The perfume itself has two bottles, not really sure why but it means you can have one at home and leave one i your bag if you wanted to, but they don't have their own separate lid so be careful you don't get soggy fragrance all over everything. This design is typical to Herrera though, and it is pretty cool.

The smell, oh my god the smell. According to Herrera herself it has top notes of lollipop and cotton candy, middle notes of crystallized rose petals and toffee, and a base note of electric fluorescent wood. Mmmmm.

It is very sweet, but I like sweet perfumes, Burberry London is my favorite, so again, very sugary. I've never been a huge fan of overly floral, rose-y smells for perfume so this works wonders. Also, I found out a little interesting fact (please don't quote me on this as I use the word 'fact' lightly) if a perfume doesn't suit your skin, it won't smell as strong on you, and people won't really notice it. I guess that means let your perfume find you. You'll know the right one when you find it. Haha, sounds so philosophical. Sounds like finding a boyfriend/girlfriend!

Have you tried this perfume? 212 Sexy is also gorgeous, has anyone tried that? Do you like the bottle design?

Also, in other news, I have recently joined the wonderful Motel team as their newest Web Editorial intern! So exciting, I had my first day on Wednesday and I absolutely loved it. I managed to get my hands on some gorgeous clothes too which is awesome, I'm planning on finally biting the bullet and doing some actual outfit posts soon - I'm just feeling a little nervous as I'm not so happy with the 'post-Christmas-yet-actually-all-the-time-body' at the moment. So watch this space!

Has everyone had a nice week? Have you had much snow??? Bristol hasn't had it yet, apart from about two measly flakes the other day, but according to my mobile telephone device we should have some by the time I wake up tomorrow - if we're lucky eh! I love snow, as long as no one throws a snow ball at my ear I'm all good. That's just the worst. Cold snow in your ear. EW.

LOVE x

Disclaimer - All the items featured in this post were Christmas presents from friends and family (thinking about it I think they were all from my lovely mumma) and I have not been asked to write this by any of the brands.

And the love kick starts again.

A quick hello, I have so much to do today so I may be slightly MIA for a few days until the stress dies down. Apologies.

I have decided that I want to run a giveaway soon, what do you think? But I feel I need to hit a milestone to do so, so I think I'll wait until I get to 50 followers on GFC. I say soon... Haha, you never know, things may start picking up soon!

So if you want me to run a giveaway - and why wouldn't you? Free stuff! - then please do share my blog around and get people clicking follow. I feel I need to have a decent number to do a fair giveaway, please don't think I'm just saying this to try and get followers! It's not about that, I just want people to see what I write, and hopefully love it just as much as I do. Plus, it's always nice to give something back as a thank you to those of you who do take the time to read what I write about.

What's everyone's plans for the weekend? Anything exciting? Mine will most likely be taken up of last minute essay writing and sketchbook-ing. Standard.

Love xx

Tonight, we are young.

Shirts. I've found a love for shirts. I am trying hard to resist the urge to spend the last of my money on so many that I've found online. I do own a few, but I find it hard to get shirts that look and feel comfortable as I am 'blessed' in the bosom department should I say. Well, it was actually a hell of a lot harder to find one nearly two years ago, when I had even bigger, ridonculous sized boobs. (In my opinion that is, if you're blessed with the bust and you love it, then good on you! Be proud!) But for me this wasn't the case, I just felt very out of proportion and frumpy. Not much fun! Not to mention endless aches and pains and emotional stress etc etc. Thanks to the NHS though I underwent surgery in June '11 - wow, I didn't realise how long ago it was! Seems like only yesterday...- and I feel a million times better. Not just in my appearance, but even in how I hold myself when I walk, and my confidence. Mega improvement in that department. Not perfect, but getting there. Anyway that was a slight tangent, shirts.

Even though my boobs are not what they used to be, I still seem to be stuck in the mindset slightly that they are, especially when it comes to high neck things. I could never really get away with wearing them as I felt they made them look even bigger, which drew in attention that I didn't like. Now I still tend to avoid certain garments as I think "that won't sit right" or "that will highlight my baps too much", but I don't have to think that anymore. It is strange, but it's still a learning curve! It's nice to be able to stop and think, "actually, I can wear that, and it will look good" for a change! I feel like I don't have to worry too much now that a button will come flying off and land in someones tea, exposing my bra to the world. (I know you may be thinking, just buy a bigger size, but that wasn't always possible as the shoulders would be too broad or the sleeves way too long making me look like a wizard. Not always cool.)

That's why I want more shirts! I love the style of a fitted, yet long shirt, done up all the way to the top, paired with wet look leggings and boots or heels. I think it's an effortless, easy throw on style that will instantly make you feel so much more dressed up, but still casual. Does that make sense?

They're so versatile, dress them up or down, prim and proper with a crisp white, or romantic with a sheer blouse.. endless possibilities! Yay!

I've been browsing online, as per, and actually decided to have a look at Romwe. I've never been on it before, (I know, I know) but I keep seeing it pop up in outfit posts every minute so I thought I'd check it out.  It's actually pretty cool!

Here's some of the shirts I've been drooling over whilst I procrastinate to the max from my uni work...

L-R Rose, European Headwear, Wearing Space Mirror Animal, Tiger Head. - All Romwe.

L-R Floral, Skeleton, - Both Romwe, Cameo Rose Coral 3/4 sleeve - New look, Casual Spot Chambray - Topshop

Just threw in a cheeky Topshop and New look for good measure.

What do you think of these picks? Are you a shirt wearer?

Also, this turned into quite a personal post, but I feel as a reader, you deserve to know who's writing what you read. If anyone has any questions, queries or concerns, whether you are dealing with the issue of larger breasts, or you have them and love them, or anything else, feel free to get in touch.

Do you like this kind of post? Should I do a follow post in more detail about the operation  Do let me know in the comments or tweet me @vickilouise2, I'd love to hear from you!

Disclaimer - I was not asked to create this post by Romwe, I just genuinely liked these shirts, and came across the website of my own accord.

Have a great weekend, and thank you so much to all of you who follow, and the newbies as well. Means a tonne.

Love x

Face || one.

Maybelline Dream Matte mousse foundation - Honey beige.
Rimmel Sun Glow bronzer - Shade 025.
Rimmel Scandelize mascara - 003 Extreme black.
Rimmel eye liner pencil - Black (most of the info is rubbed off so I'm not completely sure which one it is).
Wilko lip balm - Original.

Oh hey. This is a random and slightly vein post on my face this morning. What a treat for you! Ha.
I'm just waiting for my phone to update the software so I can go to uni and 'do some work' and the camera on my iPad has found me. Please excuse the duck face, but it's just too fun.
This is a really standard, quick, everyday makeup look for me, the most I venture away from this is the amount of eyeliner I use. This thick line has been done with a pencil which is not ideal for the cat eye as it's quite smudgy, but I'm yet to get to grips with my liquid liner. Don't you worry though, I'll be a pro before long.
I will be changing out of my slobby hoody before I go to uni, although it is tempting to wear it everyday as it's just so snuggly.
Any fun plans for the day? I plan to be in uni until they make me leave, so much to do, so little time.

Love x

Tumblr.

Just a side note... I've re-found my love for my Tumblr. Feel free to check it out here xx

Burberry lip velvet.

I have only recently got into lipstick, I've never thought it really suited me all that much. But recently I seem to have acquired quite a few new shades so have been experimenting a little more. I have found that no matter how hard I try, I'm just not destined for a red lip. It's so frustrating because I always see people managing to pull it off so perfectly. I think I just need to find the right one, maybe one with a bluer undertone rather than an orange. We shall see...
Because I guess I'm scared of red at the moment, I've ventured down the darker, burgundy route to find 'my perfect colour'.
These Burberry lip velvet lipsticks are lovely, the actual lipstick is embossed with the signature Burberry tartan which is such a nice touch.

No. 312 Hawthorn Berry. Pictured left in all images.
No. 311 Bright Poppy.

So pweddyyy.
I haven't worn the Bright Poppy yet, but I'm so in love with Hawthorn Berry I just can't bring myself to cheat. On the lip it looks a lot deeper than the swatch, it's quite burgundy but has an orange undertone, it just seems to work well with my skin. (I'd say I'm fair/medium in skin tone). These lipsticks are highly pigmented, yet they are pretty versatile. You can slather on both top and bottom lips for a rich, dark colour, or just dab a bit on the bottom lip and smooch your lips together for a much subtler look - perfect for everyday wear.
They are quite moisturising, but they are meant to be a matte finish, so they don't feel shiny or slippery at all, and there's no chance all your hair will stick to your mouth with the slightest gust of wind. Don't you just hate when that happens?! I think they feel slightly dry on the lip, so I like to sweep on a bit of balm after, but that's up to you.
These are probably the most expensive lip products I've ever owned, so as you can imagine, they're still in the boxes, and I must be careful with them at all times.
The packaging is gorgeous too, if that's not a weird thing to say? The actual case is magnetic, so it snaps back on the right way round to keep it beaut at all times. Lovely.

Have you tried any of the Burberry lip velvets? Do you like them?
Happy Monday everyone!

Love x

Christmas round up.

Happy new year everyone! I hope you had a wonderful night and don't feel too worse for wear today!
I went out with my cousin to a pub/bar which was really fun, what did you do?
I wore my new H&M dress, courtesy of Mumsie which was a black bodycon with a dip hem sheer layer over the top (I can't find it online, but it may be in store?) and sheer panels around the armhole. I love an LBD, so easy to throw on. Especially because I had 10 minutes to get ready, tan, hair, makeup the lot!

Here's a photo round up of Christmassy things... Enjoy x